The proving ring implements a simple principle of physics to provide precise and tangible indication of applied weight ranging up to hundreds of thousands of pounds Part 1 of this article looked at the basic problem of calibrating sensor-based data acquisition and especially the problem of calibration of weight and force. This part looks at […]
FAQ
Three RTOS basics: What, when and how
While real-time operating system (RTOS) software is becoming a key feature in the out-of-box support for embedded systems built around MCUs, the overall concept of RTOS is still muddy for many design engineers. So, here is when and why RTOS solutions are needed in embedded designs. But, before that, what is RTOS anyway, especially when […]
How to measure CCD and CMOS image sensor qualities
Today, about 95% of all digital cameras use CMOS image sensors with the rest employing CCDs. From the standpoint of sensor outputs, the main difference between CMOS and CCD sensors is that each pixel in a CMOS sensor has its own readout circuit next to the photosensitive area. In CCDs, charge collected in individual pixels […]
Basics of flat screens in test equipment
Flat-screen technology has become ubiquitous. It has almost completely replaced CRTs in test instruments as well as in other appliances. Unfortunately, flat-screen tech can be a bit confusing because of vendors that use their own trade names to refer to their specific type of flat display technology. Here, we’ll try to clear up some of […]
The AI-enabled MCUs: Basic design venues
What has the tiny microcontroller got to do with the mighty artificial intelligence (AI) world and its technology offshoots like machine learning and deep learning? After all, the AI designs have mostly been associated with powerful CPUs, GPUs, and FPGAs. Right? While this notion is not far from reality, it’s quickly changing with AI’s journey […]
The rise, fall, and modern uses of CRT technology
A few decades ago, virtually all computer monitors, radar installations, TVs and oscilloscopes employed cathode ray tubes for the user’s visual interface. Today, except for a few educational models and replacements for radar installations, CRTs aren’t used as displays. (CRT material and process technologies are still common in the vacuum tube industry as a whole […]
Why GaN will be key to feeding power-hungry 5G networks
By Francesco Di Domenico, Principal Application Engineering at Infineon Technologies As cellular network operators begin to switch on and deliver the 5G experience, the world awaits with mounting anticipation of the benefits the new mobile network technology will bring. Consumers can expect higher bandwidth, lower latency and more advanced service delivery from 5G, but it…
The impacts of 5G on the future: A new era of connectivity
Pre-commercial 5G has successfully launched in some countries, and the world is already excited about commercial 5G. A new digital era emerges as almost every household device will be able to connect with the internet, enabling further evolution of IoT. The impact of 5G will not be limited to networking. New technologies will evolve with…
LiDAR and Time of Flight, Part 4: Circuitry and advances
LIDAR systems and ToF techniques are critical to providing self-driving cars with a detailed picture of the surrounding and is used in many research applications as well. This is the final part of a four-part series on LIDAR systems and ToF techniques. The high-level block diagram of a LIDAR system inherently glosses over the many […]
LiDAR and Time of Flight, Part 3: Emitters, sensors, and scanners
LIDAR systems and ToF techniques are critical to providing self-driving cars with a detailed picture of the surrounding and is used in many research applications as well. This is part three of a four-part series on LIDAR systems and ToF techniques. At the front end of a LIDAR system is the photon emitter and its […]