Notable & Newsworthy

February 2020
All Semiconductor Switch Technologies Lead to Rome

Figure 1: Si superjunction and SiC MOSFETs have a vertical structure; GaN MOSFETs on the other hand have a lateral structure

Much is made of wide bandgap technologies, especially since GaN and SiC often have a superior performance on paper when compared to classic Si switching devices. These improvements include lower on-resistance and higher thermal conductivity, features that enable improvements in efficiency and operation at higher te
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/29/2020
Guideline for Switching Reliability Evaluations for GaN
JEDEC Solid State Technology Association announces the publication of JEP180: Guideline for Switching Reliability Evaluation Procedures for Gallium Nitride Power Conversion Devices.  Developed by JEDEC’s JC-70 Committee for Wide Bandgap Power Electronic Conversion Semiconductors, JEP180 is available for fr
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/28/2020
Power Supplies Output from + or - 250 volts to 6,000 volts
Dean Technology, Inc. announced the introduction of its new SPS series of digital high-voltage power supplies. These are the first products available using the company’s patented technology developed through years of research that drastically improves the performance and capability of high-voltage power supplies. Th
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/28/2020
Data Centers Use Less Energy Than You Think

Filled with computing and networking equipment, data centers are central locations that collect, store and process data.

If the world is using more and more data, then it must be using more and more energy, right? Not so, says a comprehensive new analysis. Researchers at Northwestern University, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and Koomey Analytics have developed the most detailed model to date of global data center energy us
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/28/2020
New Ecological Process for Producing Cheaper Biofuel

Professor Rajeshwar Dayal Tyagi, a researcher at the Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), has developed with his team a new approach to biodiesel production that uses microbes, sewage sludge, and a biofuel byproduct.

Professors Rajeshwar Dayal Tyagi and Patrick Drogui, researchers at the Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), have developed a new approach to biodiesel production that uses microbes, sewage sludge, and a biofuel byproduct. Biodiesel has multiple environmental benefits, but the use of vegeta
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/28/2020
Wide Bandgap Represents Small, Fast-Growing Market Segment
Many of us who have been in the industry awhile remember discussing whether digital control of power electronics would ever be adopted – at a time when almost all variable speed motor drives were already digitally controlled. Now, that digitally controlled power electronics have been, for the most part, mainstreamed, we
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/28/2020
Synchronous Step-Down Regulators w/ 2.5 µA Quiescent Current

Click image to enlarge

Figure 1. High efficiency LT8607 12 V to 5 V synchronous step-down converter

High efficiency, low EMI step-down regulators are found throughout automotive, industrial, medical, and telecom environments, where they power a wide variety of applications from a broad array of input sources. Particularly in battery-powered applications, a significant amount of time is spent in standby mode, re
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/28/2020
Collaborating for Success in Custom Power Magnetics Designs

Click image to enlarge

Figure 1. Simplistic inductor equivalent circuit

Despite its long history, the theory of magnetics component design still eludes many engineers, and with some justification; a good description of the effect of a magnetic field is the ‘relativistic correction to the force between charged particles when in motion.’ Many understand the behaviour of magnetics co
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/28/2020
Designing a PoE-PD for IoT

Click image to enlarge

Figure 1: Waveforms during Startup Phase

Internet-connected devices rely on two core features, communications backhaul and power. With IoT devices, three core concerns regularly crop up: power, communications and security. Wireless technologies, like WiFi, have held the spotlight in the marketplace for years, but they struggle with these three problems. Wi
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/28/2020
Thick Film Chip Resistors Offer Very High Voltage Ratings
Chip resistors are used for a wide range of applications, power ratings, current levels, and voltages. Previously, chip resistor voltage ratings have been constrained by the limitations of thick film screen printing. Today, Stackpole's UHV Series combines a unique film and deposition process with proprietary proce
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/27/2020
New Data Book for Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors
TDK Corporation presents the fully revised Data Book for aluminum electrolytic capacitors with screw terminal, snap-in, axial and single-ended design. In addition to proven products the book also contains many innovations, such as the screw terminal types of the B43707* and B43727* series. These have rated voltages of
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/27/2020
Smallest LiDAR ICs Offer More Than 2x Higher Bandwidth
Designers of automotive self-driving systems can now enable higher-speed autonomous driving through the industry's fastest and smallest Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) ICs from Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. Compared to the closest competitive solution, the MAX40026 high-speed comparator and the MAX40660/MAX40661 high
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/27/2020
Fanless 4 kW Power Supply Offers Wide Adjustable Output
Bel Power Solutions announced the TCP4000 Series of fanless, three-phase 4000 W AC-DC converters, suitable for a variety of industrial applications, including semiconductor lasers and plasma generators, as well as process and control applications. The TCP4000 Series converts worldwide three-phase input vol
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/27/2020
Tool Fools Hackers to Share Keys for Better Cybersecurity

Dr. Latifur Khan (left), professor of computer science, and Gbadebo Ayoade MS'14, PhD'19, shown at Ayoade's doctoral hooding ceremony in December, are co-authors of a study that promotes the benefits of crook-sourcing.

Instead of blocking hackers, a new cybersecurity defense approach developed by University of Texas at Dallas computer scientists actually welcomes them. The method, called DEEP-Dig (DEcEPtion DIGging), ushers intruders into a decoy site so the computer can learn from hackers' tactics. The information is then us
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/27/2020
Urban use of Ultralight Flexible CIGS Thin Film Solar Cell

Photo of lightweight flexible CIGS thin film solar cell and its JV characteristics

Korea Institute of Energy Research (President Kim, Jong-nam) found an efficiency improvement mechanism of polymer-substrate flexible CIGS thin-film solar cells* and published the results in 'Nano Energy' (IF: 15.548). *CIGS thin film solar cell: A kind of next-generation thin-film solar cell that has Cu(In,Ga)Se
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/27/2020
Can New Kind of Power Plant Improve Air Quality, Resilience?

Hanadi Rifai, John and Rebecca Moores Professor of environmental engineering at the University of Houston, is leading a $4 million project to study low-cost, low-emission electric power.

Researchers from the University of Houston, backed by $4 million in funding from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, have joined a pilot project testing the use of supercritical CO2, or pressurized carbon dioxide, to produce low-cost, low-emission electric power. The project, funded by the U.S. D
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/27/2020
Bourns Adds Four New Pressure Sensor Model Families
Bourns, Inc., announced the addition of four new model families to the Bourns Precision Sensor (BPS) line. Based on state-of-the-art Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology, the four new BPS310, BPS320, BPS330 and BPS340 series are cost-effective pressure sensor solutions that feature ultra-fast response ti
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/26/2020
Stretchable, Wearable Coils Make MRI, Medical Tests Easier

A Purdue University team developed RF coils that are formable and stretchable for medical imaging. (Image provided)

Anyone who has had a mammogram or an MRI knows how uncomfortable and awkward the tests can be. Now, Purdue University researchers have taken technology used in the defense and aerospace industries to create a novel way of doing some medical imaging. One reason the tests are uncomfortable is that they often use
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/26/2020
USB-C PD 3.0 Controllers with Advanced Features, Efficiency
ON Semiconductor has announced a pair of novel devices that are fully compliant with the USB-C PD 3.0 standard. The FAN6390 adaptive charging controller brings ease of integration of the USB-C PD 3.0 programmable power supply (PPS) standard into systems while the NCP12601 is a highly integrated multi-mode flyback co
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/26/2020
Adding Metal to Organic Nanomaterials for Better Batteries
The existing method for adding metals to organic materials is dangerous and laborious. Scientists from Korea have now developed a new method that is simple, safe, and cost-effective. This method, in addition to enabling a host of possibilities, such as ferrofluids, will allow the production of sodium-ion batteries, an
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/26/2020
PCIe Card for High Density Vo5G and VoLTE
SMART Embedded Computing announced a new PCI Express (PCIe) card for voice-over-5G and LTE applications (Vo5G/VoLTE). This media processing accelerator add-in card enables high density voice processing to be integrated into rack mounted servers or other network appliances that have PCIe slots. It is designed to
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/25/2020
MEMS Environmental Sensor for Ultra-Low Pressure Sensing
Bourns, Inc., introduced a new environmental pressure sensor model that provides high accuracy, 3.3 V and ultra-low pressure range capabilities. Bourns Model BPS125 pressure sensors are based on state-of-the-art Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology and deliver precision performance in a miniature pa
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/25/2020
Solutions Stack Accelerates Low-Power Embedded Vision
Lattice Semiconductor Corporation extended its position as a global provider of FPGA-based embedded vision solutions with the introduction of the Lattice mVision solutions stack. The complete solutions stack includes the modular hardware development boards, design software, embedded vision IP portfolio, and re
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/25/2020
Motor-Driver IC Family Expands to 400 W
Power Integrations announced that its BridgeSwitch integrated half-bridge (IHB) motor-driver IC family has been expanded and now supports applications requiring up to 400 W.  BridgeSwitch ICs feature high- and low-side advanced FREDFETs (Fast Recovery Diode Field Effect Transistors) with integrated lossless cu
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/25/2020
MOSFET Power Modules Optimized for High Efficiency
Alpha and Omega Semiconductor Limited announced the release of a newintelligent power module, AIM702H50B, specialized for low-power BLDC motor drives system such as fan motors in home appliances and air-conditioners that require highly compact size with reliable and efficient design allowance. The new IPM7
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/25/2020
18V, 6A Synchronous Buck Converter for POL Applications
Diodes Incorporated introduced the AP62600 synchronous DC-DC buck converter for point-of-load (POL) conversion in applications such as TVs, monitors, white goods, home appliances, consumer electronics, and large-scale integrated circuits. The AP62600 delivers up to 6A of output from a supply voltage of 4.5
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/25/2020
Black Phosphorous FET as Alternative Ultra-Low Power Switch?

A: Optical image and band diagram of the heterojunction formed by the thickness variation of black phosphorus 2D material. B: Schematic of the tunnel field-effect transistor and the thickness-dependent bandgap. C: Characteristic transfer curve showing steep subthreshold swing and high on-current.

Researchers have reported a black phosphorus transistor that can be used as an alternative ultra-low power switch. A research team led by Professor Sungjae Cho in the KAIST Department of Physics developed a thickness-controlled black phosphorous tunnel field-effect transistor (TFET) that shows 10-times lower sw
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/21/2020
High-Capacity EV Battery Materials that Double Driving Range

KIST researchers developed cathode material of carbon-silicon complex by simply mixing and heating silicon mixed with oil with green ingredients corn and sweet potato starch. If batteries made of this material are installed in electric vehicles, the driving range will more than double.

Dr. Hun-Gi Jung and his research team at the Center for Energy Storage Research of the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST, President Lee Byung Gwon) have announced the development of silicon anode materials that can increase battery capacity four-fold in comparison to graphite anode materials and en
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/21/2020
Isolated Silicon Carbide Gate Driver Provides High Efficiency
With the MAX22701E isolated gate driver from Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. (NASDAQ: MXIM), designers of high-voltage/high-power systems can improve power supply efficiency by up to 4 percentage points over competitive solutions, reducing power loss and the resulting carbon footprint by 30 percent. The driver IC i
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Isabellenhütte receives type examination certification
The new launch follows the successful completion of the type examination. The DC meters are now available for purchase by manufacturers of charging stations and can be integrated into the designs of their applications.   The basis of the type examination certification was the successfully conducted metrological mea
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
ModBUS-TCP interface option for programmable DC power supplies
The option is available on all models ranging from the 1U high half rack GH1.5kW to the 3U high full rack GSP15kW. The industry standard ModBUS-TCP protocol is used for transmission of information between electronic devices for the supervision and control of automation equipment. This GENESYS+™ option allows
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Toshiba announces 100 V N-channel automotive MOSFETs
Designed specifically for modern 48 V system applications, the devices are suited to use in boost converters for integrated starter generators (ISG) and LED headlights as well as motor drives, switching regulators and load switches.   The XPH4R10ANB and XPH6R30ANB devices improve the efficiency of automotiv
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Mouser and TE Connectivity Examine Robotics Trends in eBook
In Solutions for Robots and Robot Control, engineers and subject matter experts from Mouser and TE offer in-depth articles on the latest robotics technologies in the manufacturing space. The eBook places a special emphasis on the industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), highlighting the many ways in which robots are
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Mouser Launches USB-C Charging Reference Design
The reference design includes the Qorvo ACT4751 DC-to-DC buck converter and a Cypress EZ-PD CCG3PA USB Type-C and Power Delivery (PD) controller. The products and reference design support applications such as PC and tablet power adapters, smartphone and mobile chargers, vehicle chargers, and power banks. &nbs
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Yokogawa UK partners with TDK-Lambda
Through Yokogawa’s extensive distribution channels, customers across the UK will now benefit from even easier access to TDK-Lambda’s best-selling range of laboratory power supplies.   Yokogawa UK will carry three popular product lines of programmable power supplies. The GENESYS range features hig
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
First Accelerometer with Built-In Noise Filtering Function
The accelerometers are ideal for high accuracy, low power motion sensing applications in the industrial equipment and consumer wearable markets.   In recent years, as factories have begun to save labor costs and increase efficiency, the concept of predictive maintenance for detecting abnormalities b
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Ultra-compact 200W desktop power supply has GaN switching
GaN provides increased efficiency, reduced heat losses and operation a higher-frequencies, allowing the size of magnetics and other components to be reduced. The result is an amazingly-compact 200W external desktop power supply with market leading 12.5W/In³ power density.   The FiDUS GDA200 will be
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Three-Phase Brushless Motor Controller with Gate Driver
The sensorless design of the TC78B009FTG does not require Hall effect sensors, making it ideal for applications involving high-velocity fans or impellers in servers, blowers, small pumps, cordless vacuums and robotic cleaners.   In recent years, increases in server capacity and performance have requir
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Further Optimized Automotive 180nm BCD-on-SOI Technology
The new medium voltage devices cover voltages from 12V to 32V. With that customers now have access to a complete portfolio of different voltage options – covering a 10V to 200V voltage range. These new complementary NMOS/PMOS devices support automotive AEC-Q100 grade 0 designs and deliver competitive on-resistance (R
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
AVX Updates SpiCAT Online Simulation Tool With MLCC Series
The tool enables the quick, easy, and accurate parametric characterization of an extensive range of multilayer ceramic, tantalum, polymer, and niobium oxide surface-mount capacitors, as well as multilayer varistors.   The interactive online tool groups various product series by common application features to sim
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Maxim makes $25M Investment in New Design Center in Dublin
The design center will focus on product development and conducting research and development in the areas of analog semiconductor design to deliver Maxim’s innovative solutions across many end markets.   To make this vision a reality, the company will recruit a strong team of mixed-signal and analo
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Powerbox announces high peak load power supply for medical laser applications
Based on digital control and high energy storage management techniques, the SMM3000A80024C series delivers 2.25kW repetitive peak power to medical lasers with high efficiency. The SMM3000A80024C complies with medical safety standards and for silent operation it includes a thermo-controlled cooling system. &n
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
SIGA expands with Stabilised Transformers acquisition
SIGA Electronics has expanded its business in High Voltage and High Power transformers through the acquisition of the business and assets of Stabilised Transformers.   “The acquisition offers significant benefits to Stabilised Transformers as well as to SIGA customers,” commented Richard Thrussell, G
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Shunt Resistors Feature High Rated Power in 5.0mm×2.5mm Size
It is ideal for current detection in motors and power supply circuits used in automotive systems and industrial equipment.   This new series combines a revised electrode structure with optimized device design that improves heat dissipation to PCB where the resistor is mounted on. The result is a 39%
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Flex Power Modules announces miniature DC-DC converters
The new devices are all isolating converters providing output power of up to 1W, with no minimum load required.   Efficiency is typically 84% (PUA-A), 80% (PUC-B) and 81% (PUB-M) – all at full load. Input-to-output isolation voltage is 2000V (PUA-A), 6000V (PUC-B) and 3000V (PUB-M).   The ne
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
iMOTION IMC300 adds Arm MCU for maximum flexibility
IMC300 complements the IMC100 series and aims at variable speed drives that require very high application flexibility. Both families, IMC100 and IMC300, share the same implementation of the MCE 2.0 providing ready-to-use motor and, optional, PFC control. Applying the MCE for controlling the motor, customers can focus
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
CEA, Allies Launch Affordable Energy for NJ Coalition
Consumer Energy Alliance joined civic, labor, energy and business groups to launch Affordable Energy for New Jersey, a group working to ensure New Jersey residents continue to have safe, reliable and affordable energy choices in the wake of the recent release of the state’s Energy Master Plan (EMP). “CEA is h
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Power Supplies Boost Efficiency w/ Four Independent Channels
For any test and measurement application requiring up to four independent DC power supplies with full flexibility, full functionality, full safety and full connectivity, the R&S NGP800 power supply series will boost the efficiency in any lab or production line. Users benefit from the large 5” high re
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Vitrek Launches Electrical Safety and Test Equipment Catalog
Vitrek introduces a new Electrical Safety and Test Equipment product catalog. This comprehensive resource provides detailed information about Vitrek’s electrical safety and test equipment including hipot & ground bond testers, power analyzers, high voltage meters, lighting testing products and more. The ca
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
ReDrivers Boost Signal Quality of High-Speed USB 3.2
Diodes Incorporated introduced a series of USB ReDrivers for the industrial, embedded, and consumer market segments. The PI3EQX1004E and PI3EQX1002E are USB 3.2 compliant, 5Gbps to 10Gbps, 2-Port/1-Port, linear ReDrivers. The devices provide adjustable linear equalization, output swing, and flat gain to optimize per
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Dialog Semiconductor to Acquire Adesto Technologies
Dialog Semiconductor and Adesto Technologies Corporation (“Adesto”) announced they have signed a definitive agreement for Dialog to acquire all outstanding shares of Adesto. Adesto accelerates Dialog’s expansion into the growing IIoT market that enables smart buildings and industrial automati
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/20/2020
Mixed-Signal Hardware Security for Electromagnetic Attacks

A Purdue University team developed technology to use mixed-signal circuits to embed critical information that is suppressed at a lower level.

Security of embedded devices is essential in today’s internet-connected world. Security is typically guaranteed mathematically using a small secret key to encrypt the private messages. When these computationally secure encryption algorithms are implemented on a physical hardware, they leak critical side-chan
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/19/2020
AVX Updates its SpiCAT Online Simulation Tool
AVX Corporation launched an updated version of its user-friendly SpiCAT online simulation tool, which enables the quick, easy, and accurate parametric characterization of an extensive range of multilayer ceramic, tantalum, polymer, and niobium oxide surface-mount capacitors, as well as multilayer varistors. Th
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/19/2020
NanoLock Security, Adesto Deal Flash-to-Cloud IoT Security
NanoLock Security announced it is joining with Adesto Technologies Corp. to collaborate on flash-based embedded security and management solutions for low-density flash memory devices used in products such as smart meters, sensors and controllers in smart energy, water utilities, industrial facilities and more. The Adesto an
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/19/2020
High-Power Resistors Reduce Component Counts, Lower Costs
Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. introduced the first high power resistors on the market to be offered with the AEC-Q200 automotive qualification. Designed for direct mounting on a heatsink, the Vishay Sfernice LPSA 300, LPSA 600, and LPSA 800 deliver high power dissipation and pulse handling capabilities to help de
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/19/2020
Researchers Fool Autonomous Vehicles with Phantom Images

In the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Research Telsa considers the phantom image (left) as a real person and (right) Mobileye 630 PRO autonomous vehicle system considers the image projected on a tree as a real road sign.

Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev's (BGU) Cyber Security Research Center have found that they can cause the autopilot on an autonomous vehicle to erroneously apply its brakes in response to "phantom" images projected on a road or billboard. In a new research paper, "Phantom of th
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/19/2020
Highly Sensitive Sensors for Enhancing Human Touch

The visually aided tactile enhancement system, VATES, applied for precise motion control. The ultrathin highly sensitive crack-based sensor, signal acquisition circuit and real-time display system are used to realize the induction of tiny deformations. Ultrathin sensors exceed human skin sensitivity and do not disturb the human skin's tactile sensation. A real-time display can be used as a supplement to assist a person's tactile sensation.

People rely on a highly tuned sense of touch to manipulate objects, but injuries to the skin and the simple act of wearing gloves can impair this ability. Surgeons, for example, find that gloves decrease their ability to manipulate soft tissues. Astronauts are also hampered by heavy spacesuits and find it difficult to
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/19/2020
Renesas, Hitachi Develop High-Speed Automotive A/D Converter
Renesas Electronics Corporation and Hitachi, Ltd. announced a technology collaboration to enable continuous-time digital calibration of a delta-sigma (ΔΣ) modulator and an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter circuit. Designed to boost the performance of ΔΣ A/D converters for stable performance under the harsh c
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/19/2020
Murata Rolls Out World's Smallest PTC Thermistor
Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. has succeeded in commercializing the world's smallest PTC thermistor (commonly known as a resettable fuse) in the 0201 inch size (0.6×0.3×0.3mm) for mobile devices, and has recently begun mass production of this device under the part number PRG03BC181QB6RL. As smartphones and
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/18/2020
Resistors Feature Industry's Highest Power in their Size
ROHM recently announced the availability of shunt resistors, GMR50 series, delivering industry-leading 4W rated power (at electrode temperature TK=90°C) in the compact 5.0mm×2.5mm (2010 type package) size. It is ideal for current detection in motors and power supply circuits used in automotive systems and in
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/18/2020
Humidity Control Sheets Protect Sensitive Telecom Equipment
Active-S Humidity Control Sheets from FiberSource are a more cost-effective method for protecting telecom cabinets and equipment by eliminating the damage, corrosion, rust and component failure caused by condensation. The active humidity control sheets require less physical space, are maintenance-free, and do not need a pow
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/18/2020
Miniature DC-DC Converters for Industrial Applications
Flex Power Modules introduces new families of miniature DC-DC converters for industrial applications: the PUA-A, PUC-B and PUB-M. The new devices are all isolating converters providing output power of up to 1W, with no minimum load required.  Efficiency is typically 84% (PUA-A), 80% (PUC-B) and 81% (PUB-M
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/18/2020
Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors With High Ripple Current
TDK Corporation announced the new B43707* and B43727* series of EPCOS aluminum electrolytic capacitors with screw terminals. They are designed for rated voltages of between 400 V DC and 450 V DC and cover a capacitance range from 1800 µF to 18,000 µF. One unique feature of this series is their high CV product, wh
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/18/2020
Army Researchers Develop Efficient Distributed Deep Learning

A networked set of agents (denoted as colored nodes) train their individual deep neural nets using locally available data while interacting with neighbor nodes through available communication links (represented using grey edges).

A new algorithm is enabling deep learning that is more collaborative and communication-efficient than traditional methods. Army researchers developed algorithms that facilitate distributed, decentralized and collaborative learning capabilities among devices, avoiding the need to pool all data at a central s
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/18/2020
Creating Custom Light Using 2D Materials

Artistic view of a junction of different 2D light-emitting materials.

Finding new semi-conductor materials that emit light is essential for developing a wide range of electronic devices. But making artificial structures that emit light tailored to our specific needs is an even more attractive proposition. However, light emission in a semi-conductor only occurs when certain conditions ar
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/18/2020
PSDcast - Protecting Smart Cities from Cyber Attacks

Alan Grau, VP of IoT/Embedded Solutions for Sectigo

In addition to connecting every device, vehicle, home, and city in a massive network, the Internet of Things presents a plum target for hackers -- possibly the biggest and most tempting prize ever conceived for cyber criminals. Today's guest just wrote a blog on this very topic, and as the VP of IoT/Embedded Solu
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/17/2020
Novel Technology to Measure Energy Conversion Efficiency
Conversion of energy is a constant process but measuring the efficiency of this conversion is not an easy task. Quantifying the heat emission of the object that absorbs energy has been proven to be a good indicator. Scientists have now devised a technique that can perform this measurement easily and accurately, an
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/17/2020
5kW High-Input Voltage DC-DC Converters
ABSOPULSE Electronics has released the HVI 5K-3U7 series of high input voltage industrial DC-DC converters that deliver up to 5kW output power. A built-in redundancy diode allows for parallel connection of a number of 5kW converter units to create a 10kW, 15kW, or higher DC-power solution, and N+1 operation. Th
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/14/2020
Rittal North America Introduces New AX and KX Enclosures
Rittal introduced the new AX / KX wall mount enclosures. These new enclosure offerings feature a simpler and faster assembly and component installation, greater flexibility and enhanced safety. The latest additions to the Rittal enclosure portfolio offer improved features and new opportunities for value crea
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/14/2020
Catalyst Deposition on Fragile Chips

Yen-Ting Chen at the transmission electron microscope

Researchers at the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) and the University of Duisburg-Essen have developed a new method of depositing catalyst particles to tiny electrodes. It is inexpensive, simple and quick to perform. In order to characterize catalysts and test their potential for various applications, researchers ha
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/14/2020
Does Graphene Cause or Prevent the Corrosion of Copper?

Scientists in Korea are first to observe an unprecedented way in which graphene forms a hybrid layer that prevents copper corrosion

Copper has been essential to human technology since its early days--it was even used to make tools and weapons in ancient times. It is widely used even today, especially in electronic devices that require wiring. But, a challenge with using copper is that its surface oxidizes over time, even under ambient conditions, ul
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/14/2020
Cobalt-Based Catalysts to Enhance Heavy oil Extraction

Subfractional composition of heavy oil asphaltenes

Despite the large number of existing reagents, research is ongoing in the world to obtain universal catalysts that are distinguished by their efficiency, low cost and neutral impact on the environment. After conducting laboratory studies, KFU scientists were able to create a new type of reagent based on nickel an
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/14/2020
Isolierter CAN-Transceiver mit Automotive-Qualifizierung
Mit Eigenschaften wie einfacher Aufbau, umfassende Funktionalität, hohe Störsicherheit und schnelle Datenübertragung ist der CAN-Bus das bevorzugte Kommunikations-Netzwerk für elektronische Komponenten im Bereich Automotive. Mornsun unterstützt diese Technologie ab sofort mit isolierten CAN-Transceivern, die n
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/13/2020
Renesas, Panthronics Collaborate for Wireless Charging, IoT

The P9235A-RB-EVK Evaluation Board

Renesas Electronics Corporation and Panthronics AG jointly announced they are collaborating to bring best-in-class solutions to the consumer, industrial, and Internet of Things (IoT) markets. The collaboration realizes technical leadership in performance, size reduction, lower BOM and power consumption, while of
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/13/2020
Flex Power Modules Adds Telecom Version to DC-DC Converters
Flex Power Modules introduces a new version of its BMR480 digital DC-DC converter, optimized for telecom applications that require input voltage down to 36Vin. The converter, called the BMR480 0113/034, provides an extended input voltage range below 40Vin, as required for telecom power conversion applications. I
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/13/2020
Automotive CAN Transceiver Modules Meet AEC-Q100 Standards
Thanks to the simple CAN bus transmission and wiring, as well as the strong anti-interference ability, CAN bus has become the preferred communication protocol for the automotive electronics industry. Mornsun released a new automotive CAN transceiver module series CTD-CAN. From design, verification to produc
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/13/2020
MCU Family Moves Software Tasks to Hardware
In microcontroller (MCU) based system design, software is often the bottleneck for both time to market and system performance. By offloading many software tasks to hardware, Microchip Technology Inc.’s next generation PIC18-Q43 family helps developers bring higher performing solutions to market faster.  The family’
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/12/2020
Answering Investor Calls, Dominion Sets Net-Zero Target
Dominion Energy announced a goal to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, joining the ranks of at least 17 other U.S. utilities setting net-zero targets. Significantly, Dominion’s goal applies to both its electric and natural gas businesses in the 18 states where it operates.  As You Sow has worked
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/12/2020
Stackpole Expands All-Metal Current-Sense Resistor Series
Electronics designers are driven to downsize circuitry to make products lighter, smaller, more efficient and to allow for added features. Downsizing takes place in all aspects of the circuit design including the power control and delivery. This can be challenging since it isn’t always possible to reduce the actual
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/12/2020
Are Robots Designed to Include the LGBTQ+ Community?

Will robots and AI respond appropriately to an elderly gay couple? Researchers say it's important to make design decisions now to make certain that technology is inclusive.

In a new short paper in the journal Nature Machine Intelligence, Roger A. Søraa from Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and co-authors Eduard Fosch-Villaronga from Leiden University in the Netherlands, and Adam Poulsen from Charles Sturt University in Australia discuss what a queering of robots m
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/12/2020
Autonomous Vehicle Tech may Improve US Army Convoy Safety
U.S. Army convoys could be made safer for soldiers by implementing autonomous vehicle technology to reduce the number of service members needed to operate the vehicles, according to a new study from the RAND Corporation. "The Army is interested in autonomous technology because if they can reduce the numbe
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/12/2020
Nanoscale Thermal Switches Needed for Next-Gen Computing
Researchers working on an Army project developed nanoscale thermal switches that are key to thermal management of nanoscale devices, refrigeration, data storage, thermal computing and heat management of buildings. The journal Nature Nanotechnology published an Army-funded study from University of Michigan resear
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/12/2020
First Electrically-Driven 'Topological' Laser Developed

From left - NTU Singapore scientists Assoc Prof Baile Zhang, Prof Qijie Wang, Assoc Prof Yidong Chong, and Dr Yongquan Zeng, who worked with their collaborators at the University of Leeds, UK, to develop the first electrically-driven topological laser.

Scientists and engineers from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) and the University of Leeds in the UK have created the first electrically-driven 'topological' laser, which has the ability to route light particles around corners - and to cope with defects in the manufacture of the device. Electrically-driven semiconduct
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/12/2020
Graphene Forms Under Microscope's Eye

Scientists recorded the formation of laser-induced graphene made with a small laser mounted to a scanning electron microscope.

You don't need a big laser to make laser-induced graphene (LIG). Scientists at Rice University, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT Knoxville) and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) are using a very small visible beam to burn the foamy form of carbon into microscopic patterns. The labs of Rice chemi
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/12/2020
Ultra-Low Noise, Monolithic Dual, N-Channel JFET
Linear Systems announces the re-release of their most popular part, the LSK389 Series, Ultra-Low Noise, Monolithic Dual, N-Channel JFET, now 100% tested to meet or exceed noise specifications. The LSK389 is the lowest noise Junction Field Effect Transistor (JFET) in its class and has been used in ultra-hig
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/11/2020
PSDcast - Off-Grid Solar for Work and Pleasure

GoSun's Portable Solar Oven.

Today's guest on the PSDcast spent his career living off-the-grid, and his company, GoSun, develops off-grid, solar solutions for cooking, cooling, phone charging, lighting and they're now developing products for water purification and shelter ...
Date:
02/10/2020
Kirigami can Help us Study the Muscular Activity of Athletes
The upcoming Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2020 represent a big opportunity for governments to promote a healthy lifestyle and sports, and the turn of the decade is a great opportunity to showcase how recent technological developments can be used to help us understand human motion during sports. In this re
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/10/2020
-30 V P-Channel MOSFET Offers Industry-Low On-Resistance
Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. introduced a new -30 V p-channel TrenchFET Gen IV power MOSFET that offers industry-low on-resistance of 3.5 mΩ at 10 V in the 3.3 mm by 3.3 mm thermally enhanced PowerPAK 1212-8S package, in addition to best in class on-resistance times gate charge — a critical figure of merit (F
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/10/2020
Sager Electronics Sponsors FIRST Robotics Team
Sager Electronics announced its support for the FIRST (For Inspiration & Recognition of Science & Technology) Robotics team at Bridgewater-Raynham Regional High School in Southeastern Massachusetts. The FIRST Robotics competition combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and techn
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/10/2020
Expanded Line of Automotive-Grade SMD Fuse Model Families
Bourns, Inc., further expanded the company's SinglFuse product line with new automotive grade SMD fuse families. The five new SF-1206SA-W, SF-2410FPA-W, SF-2410FA-W, SF-0603HIA-M and SF-1206HIA-M model families are fully compliant with Bourns' internal AEC-Q200 equivalent test procedures to ensure rugged performance in a
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/10/2020
650V, 1200V, and 1700V Silicon Carbide Schottky Diode Family
SemiQ recently announced the release to production of its new 3rd generation SiC Diode Family featuring blocking voltages of 650V, 1200V and 1700V with forward-current starting at 8 amps up to 50 A per chip. Packages include TO-220-2L, TO-220-3L, TO-247-2L, TO-247-3L, SOT-227, TO-263 as well as bare die. These Gen-3 pro
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/10/2020
0.13 micron BCD Process with Enhanced Performance
MagnaChip Semiconductor Corporation announced that it now offers a 0.13 micron BCD process with improved performance to help automotive power semiconductor designers build more competitive products. BCD (Bipolar-CMOS-DMOS) is a process technology that combines three different process technologies onto a si
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/10/2020
HiP Expands ASTRAGAUGE Line of High Pressure Gauges
High Pressure Equipment Company (HiP) has added two new high pressure gauges to its ASTRAGAUGE line of highly accurate and reliable bourdon-tube style gauges. Model 6PG20C has a pressure range from 0 to 20,000 psi and model 6PG30C from 0 to 30,000 psi. These new surface mount C Series gauges feature a six-inch di
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/10/2020
DNA-Like Material Could Bring Even Smaller Transistors

These silver, wiggling lines are strings of atoms in tellurium behaving like DNA. Researchers have not seen this behavior in any other material.

Computer chips use billions of tiny switches, called transistors, to process information. The more transistors on a chip, the faster the computer. A material shaped like a one-dimensional DNA helix might further push the limits on a transistor's size. The material comes from a rare earth element called tellurium.
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/10/2020
Nano Dimension Lists Closing of $3.5 Million Public Offering
Nano Dimension Ltd., announced the closing of its previously announced underwritten public offering of 2,333,000 American Depositary Shares (“ADS”), at a price per ADS to the public of $1.50. The gross proceeds to the Company from this offering were $3,499,500, before deducting underwriting discounts, commissions an
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/09/2020
PSDcast - Lighting and Enhancing the Learning Environment

Ben Madsen, one of the Principle Executives with Midstate Energy

Today's PSDcast is on a topic we're happy to return to whenever given the chance. Midstate Energy just partnered with Flagstaff Unified School District (out of Flagstaff, Arizona) to provide infrastructure and lighting upgrades, leading to improved energy and operational efficiency, and - in a very literal sense - en
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/06/2020
MOSFET Driver Supports CCM, DCM, and QR Operation
Diodes Incorporated announced the introduction of the APR348 secondary-side, multi-mode synchronous rectification MOSFET driver, designed for AC-DC rectification circuits in general consumer applications, notebooks, and USB adapters. The APR348 is capable of driving the external MOSFET in both high-side and low-sid
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/06/2020
Fast-Charge Batteries Available at Select Apple Stores
mophie, a ZAGG Brands company, unveiled three new universal power solutions designed to charge iPhone at the fastest speed possible, available at Apple.com and select Apple stores. The powerstation, powerstation plus, and powerstation plus XL feature 18W fast charge, a Lightning input, and the ability to charge mu
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/06/2020
Asite Becomes Key Player in MTA's $54.8 billion Investment
Asite has been appointed as the Electronic Project Management Solution for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in New York City. Following a competitive tender process, Asite’s Common Data Environment platform was chosen to work on existing and upcoming MTA projects, including the MTA Capital Prog
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/06/2020
Autotalks' Chipset for Company's C-V2X Program in China
Autotalks announced that its chipset was selected for a mass production C-V2X program in China, one of the first to be deployed in the huge Chinese market. This is the first mass-production C-V2X program for Autotalks, which consists of a Telematics Control Unit (TCU) with C-V2X powered by Autotalks' chipset, bui
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/06/2020
AC-DC Supply Line Includes Compact GaN Desktop Adapter
CUI Inc. announced the addition of two GaN desktop ac-dc power supply series to its SDI product family. The SDI200G-U and SDI200G-UD offer 200 W of continuous power from a compact desktop package. These ac-dc supplies have been designed for a wide range of portable industrial and consumer products, where efficient po
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/05/2020
New York Power Authority Joins Climate Smart Communities
The New York Power Authority (NYPA) has joined the Climate Smart Communities program, an interagency effort to encourage and assist local governments in taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for the effects of climate change. A total of 291 local governments around New York State have jo
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/05/2020
Expanded Lineup of AEC-Q200-Qualified SMD Inductors
Growth in demand for high-temperature automotive and industrial circuitry has sparked Sumida to greatly expand its lineup of AEC-Q200 qualified SMD inductors.  In early 2019, Sumida introduced the CDRH50D28B/T150 Series of high temperature shielded drum and ring core inductors, for a range of automotive app
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/05/2020
Engineering a Better World Using Mirrors, Sun, and Steam
Partha Dutta, a professor of electrical, computer, and systems engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, envisions a not-so-distant future where even the most remote parts of the world would have access to clean and renewable energy. His vision wouldn’t require a large power grid or expensive technology. In
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/05/2020
PSDcast - Automotive Data Centers and AI

Rohith Pai, director business development for Dialog Semiconductor

With the new year upon us, we'd like to try our hand at some predictions -- some forecasting, if you will. One of the more interesting developments is this idea of vehicles becoming their own data centers. And just like regular data centers, vehicular data centers need to mind their thermal management. That plu
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/05/2020
2kW Power Supply Family for ICT and Networking Applications
Murata announced the expansion of its D1U54 Series with the 2000W rated D1U54-x-2000-12, the latest in a line of slim, redundant, AC-DC and DC-DC Front End power supplies by Murata Power Solutions. In an industry standard 1U x 2.15" x 12.65” (1U x 54.5 x 321.5mm), this Series provides 2000W co
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/05/2020
Hirose Launches Lowest-Profile Push-Push MicroSD Connector
Hirose has produced the world’s lowest profile Push-Push MicroSD connector. Featuring a profile of only 1.15 mm, the miniature DM3NW Series MicroSD connector enables smaller consumer electronic designs by reducing the volumetric space by up to 15% compared to competing products on the market. The push/push type D
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/04/2020
DC-DC Converters with 80-160Vin for Harsh Environments
TRACO POWER announces the release of the TMDC-H family of chassis-mount DC-DC converter modules covering 5 power levels ranging from 6~60 watts featuring 80~160 VDC input ranges and 3kVAC reinforced I/O isolation making them ideal for rugged environments and industrial applications. The TMDC-H modules come fully
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/04/2020
THine Introduces 4Gbps, Low Voltage Transceiver IC
THine announced the high-volume availability of their new GPIO / LVCMOS transceiver IC, THCS251. This new IC allows engineers to aggregate up to 37 lines of different data rates into just 4 lines that can be received and transmitted in the same IC! With the THCS251, manufacturers can lower cost, reduce size, and
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/04/2020
Power Management IC for 8M Nano Applications Processors
ROHM recently announced the availability of a highly integrated and efficient power management IC (PMIC), BD71850MWV, optimized for NXP Semiconductors’ i.MX 8M Nano family of application processors, which features exceptional computing, and audio performance. It is the latest addition to ROHM’s gr
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/03/2020
High Power Semiconductor Lasers for Lidar Transceivers
NeoPhotonics Corporation announced that it is sampling high-power Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers (SOAs) and Narrow Linewidth (NLW) Distributed Feedback Lasers (DFB) lasers for long range automotive Lidar (“light detection and ranging”) applications. NeoPhotonics SOAs and NLW lasers operate in eye-safe
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/03/2020
Current Sense Resistors with Resistance of 10, 20 Milliohm
Consumer electronics, especially portable electronic devices, continue to trend towards faster speeds and lower power. This means in many cases circuitry can be simplified and downsized, including the power control and delivery platform. Lower operating currents and lower voltages mean large size current sense re
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/03/2020
How Nanomaterials Could Lower Retail Waste, up Stock Take

An image of the newly developed environmentally-friendly radio-frequency identification tag.

As part of the new £8 million ESRC investment in Digital Futures at Work Research Centre, University of Sussex academics and an innovative SME have teamed up with the world's largest retail company to understand how quantum digital technology could revolutionise employment in the retail sector and significantly red
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/03/2020
WVU Engineer Aims to Enhance Space Weather Forecasting

An artist's illustration shows activity from the sun contributing to space weather conditions that can ultimately affect Earth and its infrastructure.

Usually, the Earth's magnetic field shields us from the misadventures of our nearest star, the mighty sun. But it failed on Sept. 2, 1859. Known as the Carrington Event, the most powerful solar storm on record burst through the magnetic field and pummeled telegraph wires throughout the United States and
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/03/2020
Ultra-High Energy Events key to Study of Ghost Particles
Physicists at Washington University in St. Louis have proposed a way to use data from ultra-high energy neutrinos to study interactions beyond the standard model of particle physics. The 'Zee burst' model leverages new data from large neutrino telescopes such as the IceCube Neutrino Observatory in Antarctica and
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/02/2020
How Supercomputers Link Quantum Entanglement to Cold Coffee
Theoretical physicists from Trinity College Dublin have found a deep link between one of the most striking features of quantum mechanics - quantum entanglement - and thermalisation, which is the process in which something comes into thermal equilibrium with its surroundings. Their results are published today [Fr
. . . Learn More
Date:
02/02/2020
Archives