The buttons that access digital functions in the Tektronix MDO3000 Series oscilloscope are grouped together near the bottom of the front panel, just above the analog ports and the Analog Channel One input. Nearby is an insulated cover over the digital input ports and the digital D15-0 button. You may wonder how it is possible […]
FAQ
What are cryogenic temperature measurements? Part 2
Part 1 of this article looked at sensing and sensors for ultracold and cryogenic temperatures; Part 2 advances the story to more esoteric situations. Q: What’s the fundamental difference between measuring extremely high temperatures versus cryogenic ones? A: When things get really hot, extending into thousands of degrees, the sensor options are limited. Usually, it […]
How new inductor cores meet demands for smaller, quieter, and more reliable power
by Patrik Kalbermatten, KEMET Engineered composite cores have enabled inductor manufacturers to pack high inductance into a small volume. New FlakeComposite technology takes core performance to the next level, and adds extra mechanical resilience to enable new types of low-profile devices. Power inductors are crucial devices for managing the flow of energy in switching converters, […]
Standard amplifier functions in HEV/EV battery management systems
by Sanjeev Manadhar, Texas Instruments Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and electric vehicles (EVs) are popular because they have low (to zero) emissions and fewer maintenance requirements while offering better efficiency and drive performance. New HEV/EV companies are emerging, while existing automakers are investing more in HEV/EV to compete for market share. The heart of the […]
The working principle, applications and limitations of ultrasonic sensors
The ultrasonic sensor (or transducer) works on the same principles as a radar system. An ultrasonic sensor can convert electrical energy into acoustic waves and vice versa. The acoustic wave signal is an ultrasonic wave traveling at a frequency above 18kHz. The famous HC SR04 ultrasonic sensor generates ultrasonic waves at 40kHz frequency. Typically, a […]
What are cryogenic temperature measurements? Part 1
Cryogenic temperatures may seem only of limited interest, but they are actually critical in many instrumentation and other systems. Measuring these ultralow temperatures is both easy and difficult, depending on temperature, material, and mass. Temperature is the most commonly measured physical variable, whether it’s just to assess the local weather to manage the performance of […]
Autonomous vehicle sees with LiDAR eyes
Automakers are struggling to deliver the first commercially available fully autonomous car (SAE Level 5). There are a lot of vision technologies and sensors available, but fine-tuning them has proved to be challenging. Cars need to “see” objects, moving or stationary, from far away enough to react and make driving decisions. One of the most […]
What are RF waveguides? Part 2: implementation and components
Part 1 of this FAQ looked at the context and the need for waveguides; Part 2 looks at the implementation and available components. Q: What standard waveguide are available? A: There are thousands of models, configurations, and options. Most waveguides have flanges so they can be connected to create longer guides, or to provide turns […]
Working with the Tektronix AFG31000 Series arbitrary function generator
The Tektronix AFG31000 Series Function Generator can be used in conjunction with an oscilloscope to display the generated signals in one or two analog channels on a large LCD. Alternately, the AFG has smaller waveform displays with reduced resolution, nonetheless adequate for demonstrating the functionality of this powerful instrument. When initially powered up, the AFG […]
What high-speed data means for connected vehicles
Technologies behind multigigabit Ethernet and 5G could transform transportation. Harsh Patel | Molex The connected vehicle segments are growing at a rapid pace. By 2020, industry analysts predict there will be 250 million connected vehicles and 10 million self-driving cars on the road, and 470 million connected/autonomous vehicles by 2025. As the number of connected […]