Understanding how filters are characterized is the first step in choosing an appropriate topology with suitable specifications. Filters are both a simple and also complicated and often confusing topic. This part clarifies some of the issues. Q: Why are so many discussions about filters so confusing? A: There are many reasons, but one is that […]
Analog IC Tips
An overview of filters and their parameters, Part 1: Context
Understanding how filters are characterized is the first step in choosing an appropriate topology with suitable specifications. Mention “filters” to electrical engineers of the older persuasion, and you’ll likely see a look of nostalgia mixed with fear. Why so? Because “back in the day” a course on filter theory was mandatory for nearly all EE […]
A look at intrinsic broadband noise spectral density
You can think of noise as an unwanted signal. This signal creates an error by combining with the desired signal in your circuit. Exterior sources can couple into your circuits, such as your 50 or 60 Hz DC mains signal or your cell phone. The starting point in your circuit’s noise evaluation is to reach […]
PCB design software features enhanced design rules, via handling
Number One Systems announced the release of Easy-PC version 25, with over 25 new technology features based on user requests from professional PCB designers. Easy-PC has been created by a team of engineering professionals who have rewritten the rule book for EDA tools to provide the optimal design experience. Easy-PC is packed with time-saving features […]
Sockets for 0.75-mm-pitch memory devices sport 27 GHz bandwidth
A new high-performance BGA socket for 0.75-mm-pitch BGA 180-pin memory devices called the SG-BGA-6511 socket is designed for a JC11 MO328-variation PBGA-B180 package and operates at bandwidths up to 27 GHz with less than 1 dB of insertion loss. The sockets are designed to dissipate up to several watts without extra heat sinking and can […]
Phased-array antennas optimized for satellites, space vehicles
ThinKom Solutions announced the development of a new family of phased-array antennas for deployment on satellites and other space vehicles. The antennas are based on ThinKom’s proven VICTS (Variable Inclination Continuous Transverse Stub) technology. The multi-frequency full-duplex antennas are designed for operation on geostationary and non-geostationary satellites using C-, X-, Ku-, Ka-, Q-, V-, E- and […]
EDA design tool bundle addresses component lead time and availability changes
EMA Design Automation and Digi-Key Electronics have collaborated to release the OrCAD Capture Bundle, a special offer available only on digikey. This new design bundle provides the tools, data, and models needed to ensure first-pass design success including OrCAD Capture, the industry-standard schematic design solution; In-design ability to search and select parts from Digi-Key; Searchable […]
Rail-to-rail input/output high-speed CMOS op amps target automotive, industrial apps
ROHM Semiconductor announced the BD8758xY series (BD87581YG-C, BD87582YFVM-C) of rail-to-rail input/output high-speed CMOS op-amps. The devices feature improved EMI immunity for automotive and industrial equipment applications requiring high-speed sensing in harsh environments, such as vehicle engine control units and anomaly detection systems for factory automation equipment. In recent years, advancements in electrification and mounting density have […]
Squash 1/f noise with zero-drift amplifiers
There is a device that squashes all the 1/f voltage and current noise calculations with a chopper amplifier algorithm that corrects offset and drift characteristics. These amplifiers are zero-drift, auto-zero, or choppers that all achieve nanovolt-level offsets and extremely low offset drifts due to time and temperature. But back to our noise discussion, these devices […]
What are the applications of 3D and 4D printed electronics?
3D printing is the fabrication of a three-dimensional object under computer control, with one or more materials being added layer by layer. 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, is used across various electronics applications, including circuit boards, energy storage devices, actuators, and sensors. It can be implemented using a variety of technologies, including selective laser sintering […]