A new BGA socket design uses a high-performance elastomer capable of 94 GHz, very low inductance and wide temperature applications. The GT-BGA-2145 socket is designed for a 50×50-mm package size and operates at bandwidths up to 94 GHz with less than 1 dB of insertion loss. The socket is designed to dissipate 200 W using […]
Analog IC Tips
Heilind Electronics now stocking Molex LTE/GPS 2-in-1 external antennas
Heilind Electronics has expanded its portfolio of wireless solutions with off-the-shelf LTE/GPS, 2-in-1 screw-mount external antennas. Integrating LTE and GPS antennas in one housing enables reliable asset tracking and remote monitoring in both commercial and consumer applications. Supporting 2/3/4G and GPS technologies, the Molex LTE/GPS 2-in-1 external antennas offer superior RF performance of less than […]
PCB design tool integrated utilities for search and place symbols, footprints, and 3D models
ExpressPCB is excited to announce the release of its new Plus PCB Design Suite (ExpressSCH Plus and ExpressPCB Plus version 3.0). Highlights of the newly added features include an integrated search and download for components using SnapEDA, a schematic link between ExpressSCH Plus and ExpressPCB Plus, as well as netlist validation between the printed circuit […]
What is second-generation beamforming and digital beamforming?
Beamforming is an established technology for cellular communications and other applications (see the previous article on “What is beamforming?”). Beamforming was initially developed based on various analog signal chain techniques and processes. In general, beamforming combines antenna array elements to direct signals at controlled angles to maximize signal reception at specific receivers. Analog beamforming can […]
Large I/O test sockets target ASIC development
Grypper test sockets are for any BGA devices including large array ASICs. The Grypper socket can be designed to any I/O count specific to custom ASIC requirements. Ironwood Grypper G80 LIF socket, part number GR1005-0003, allows testing of an 896 I/O – 31.0×31.0-pitch BGA package. The Grypper socket fits in the same location/PCB footprint as […]
What is beamforming?
Beamforming is used in various applications, including sensor arrays, radar, biomedicine, WiFi, and wireless communications. It is an active approach that combines antenna array elements to direct signals at specific angles and create constructive interference. In contrast, other signals are subjected to destructive interference to maximize signal transmission and/or reception. Beamforming can improve the spatial […]
High-current true 0-Ω SMT jumpers
A new series of “true” 0=-Ω high-current SMT jumpers designed to replace “Zero” ohm resistors are the latest connectivity devices available from Keystone Electronics Corp. Quick and easy set-up, these Jumpers are uniquely suited as true zero-ohm resistor replacements without the need to change board designs or layouts. Four resistor chip sizes are offered to […]
What is precoding and what are the benefits?
Precoding involves preprocessing of the transmit signal in an RF system. As described below, precoding uses channel state information at the transmitter to improve performance and increase spectral efficiency. It is used to implement the superposition of multiple beams, including several different data streams of information for spatial multiplexing. Precoding is the transmitter signal processing […]
APD and SPAD devices now offer boosted photon-detection performance and increased active area
X-FAB Silicon Foundries has just introduced its latest generation of avalanche photodiode (APD) and single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) devices. Leveraging its proven automotive-qualified 180 nm XH018 high-voltage process, X-FAB’s new APDs and SPADs benefit from innovative architectural modifications, with substantial improvements in performance exhibited compared with the company’s earlier devices (which were initially announced back […]
What is the difference between current feedback and voltage feedback op amps?
Current feedback (CFB) operational amplifiers (op amps) and voltage feedback (VFB) op amps have almost as many similarities as differences. CFBs and VFBs both have inverting and non-inverting inputs, a signal output, inputs for positive and negative voltage supplies and use feedback and gain resistors to stabilize circuit operation and set circuit gain. That can […]