In part 1 of the FAQ, we looked at techniques for a modest amount of boosting of lower voltages, as well as for increasing a voltage to a much higher value. The techniques discussed thus far boost and thus multiply the voltage, but what are called voltage “multipliers” usually give push voltages to much-higher values. […]
Working with higher voltages, Part 1: Voltage boosters
Whether for efficiency or due to the device physics, many applications require voltages ranging in the tens, hundreds, or even thousands of volts; the circuits which produce these voltages start with basic charge pumps and extend to voltage multipliers with simple schematics but many subtleties. Lower-voltage circuitry is the trend, with ICs and designs operating […]
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Part 1: How it works
The modern MRI system is an amazing blend of diverse technologies, based on the realization that a small but critical aspect of the spin of hydrogen nuclei could be leveraged to provide a safe, non-invasive way to see inside a human body. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an extraordinarily valuable and vital tool for non-invasive […]
Optical amplifiers, Part 2: Basic implementations
Part 1 of this FAQ began an overview into the arcane world of all-optical amplifiers including where and why they are needed. Part 2 will briefly describe the four types and identify the two most commonly used for optical-fiber link signal boosting. Q: How “accurate” will this presentation be? A: Frankly, it will have large-scale […]
Thermal Electric Generators, Part 2: Applications
Part 1 of this FAQ looked at the principles and components of a basic TEG system. Part 2 looks at some applications ranging from very small to large, and from scavenged auxiliary to primary power. Q: It seems like TEGs are costly and complicated, despite the simple principle of operation. Is this the case? A: […]
Thermal electric generators, Part 1: Principles and implementation
TEGs – thermal electric generators – are used for energy harvesting and enhanced efficiency, as well as stand-alone primary power sources for both mundane and highly advanced situations. Every application needs a source of energy which can be “drawn down” to provide power for the system. Obviously, the easier and cheaper it is to get […]
Optical amplifiers, Part 1: Applications and considerations
We can now amplify electronic signals from low frequencies to the multi-GHz range without too much difficulty, but amplifying a stream of photons such as in an optical fiber has a very different meaning and is a challenge with no single or easy solution – but it is being done. Electronic and optics technologies are […]
Digital caliper, Pt 2: Implementation and extensions
Use of electronics and capacitive-based position sensing have transformed the caliper, a fundamental and essential instrument of precision linear-dimension measurement. Part 1 of this FAQ looked briefly at the basic mechanical, Vernier, and dial-readout calipers, as well as the micrometer. All these mechanical-only embodiments of the caliper were made obsolete within a few years with […]
Digital caliper, Pt 1: Background and predecessors
Use of electronics and capacitive-based position sensing have transformed the caliper, a fundamental and essential instrument of precision linear-dimension measurement. Making precise measurements across small distances of up to several inches or tens of centimeters is an obvious and fundamental requirement of modern metrology, research, and mass production. But how can that be done accurately, […]
Analog computation, Part 2: When and how
Analog circuits based on op amps can be used to implement mathematical functions and are still useful in many applications due to their unique attributes. Part 1 of this FAQ looked at the basic need for and virtues of analog-based computational circuits. Part 2 looks at some implementation specifics and considerations. Q: What are the […]