Analysis and possible pushback from users may be among the next steps in the development of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). NIST has started the process of standardizing the four finalist algorithms. That’s the last step before developing the mathematical tools and making the tools available so developers […]
How many PCIe card sizes exist today, and where are they used?
There are five standard sizes for PCIe cards and two sizes of mini PCIe. In addition, some larger PCIe slots can accommodate more than one card using a process called bifurcation. This FAQ looks at the five standard sizes and common uses for them. Then turns to mini PCIe and its applications and closes with […]
Post-quantum crypto standardization — where we are
Post quantum cryptography (PQC) standardization is a program being run by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). It began in 2016, and by the end of 2017, NIST had received 82 submissions, of which 69 were accepted for further consideration. Through successive rounds of elimination, the number of proposals dropped from 69 to […]
What technologies are used for digital isolators?
There are three main technologies used for digital isolators, capacitive, magnetic, and giant magnetoresistive (GMR). This FAQ briefly looks at capacitive designs (they are covered in more detail in “What is a capacitive digital isolator”), then digs deeper into magnetic and GMR devices. Capacitive digital isolators use two CMOS dies connected with a capacitive isolation […]
What’s quantum control and how is it used?
Quantum control has several uses. Its primary use is to prevent the performance degradation of quantum computers as a result of the decoherence of qubits. It’s also an important function in the field of quantum sensing; for information on that application, see the FAQ on “What’s a quantum sensor?” This FAQ reviews the current status […]
What inductor characteristics are needed for PoDL in Single-Pair Ethernet?
Basic Single-Pair Ethernet (SPE) requires at least a common mode inductor (CMI). When power over data line (PoDL) functionality is added, so is a differential mode inductor (DMI) and sometimes an isolation transformer. These magnetic elements interact and can reduce SPE performance. Correctly specifying them is important to ensure efficient operation and reliable data transfer. […]
What are the key specifications of digital isolators? Part 2
Digital isolators have two primary functions, to provide isolation and to transmit information across the isolation barrier. Part one looked at the various specifications related to voltage and isolation performance. Part two details key specifications related to the transmission of information. Common‐mode transient immunity (CMTI) is one of three key specifications of digital isolators. The […]
What are the key specifications of digital isolators? Part 1
Digital isolators have two primary functions, to provide isolation and to transmit information across the isolation barrier. This first of two FAQs on digital isolator specifications looks at voltage and isolation specs. Part two details key specifications related to information transmission. Two basic voltage specs are: Working voltage (VIOWM) is the maximum rms, or corresponding […]
What’s the difference between an SPE isolation inductor and a transformer?
Single-pair Ethernet (SPE) isolation inductors and transformers are available in several configurations. They are used in applications where simple capacitive isolation is not sufficient. There are two types of SPE isolation transformers, simple chip transformer designs and so-called case transformers that can combine the functions of isolation with common mode rejection. This FAQ looks at […]
What is a capacitive digital isolator?
Capacitive digital isolators consist of two digital CMOS dies connected with a capacitive isolation barrier. The barrier provides galvanic isolation to meet safety regulations, reduce noise from ground loops, and connect interface communication boards or subcircuits that operate with different supply voltages. They are used in power converters and motor drives, electric vehicles (EVs), consumer […]
