Despite the convenience and availability of LEDs, the neon lamp still has a viable position as a power-on indicator as well as use in some specialty applications. Thus far, we have looked basic neon lamp principles and operation. This part looks at some special issues related to these versatile indicators. Q: Why use a neon […]
FAQ
How does the PICMG IoT.1 specification for smart IoT sensors work?
The PCI Industrial Computer Manufacturer’s Group (PICMG) is developing a series of specifications to enable plug-and-play interoperability of smart sensors and effectors. The effort includes the large installed base of legacy non-IoT (not IP-enabled) devices and newer IoT-enabled smart sensors. The PICMG program includes development of a family of three IoT specifications. PICMG IoT.1 is […]
The humble neon lamp: down, but definitely not out: Part 2
Despite the convenience and availability of LEDs, the neon lamp still has a viable position as a power-on indicator as well as use in some specialty applications. This part continues the exploration of the neon lamp. Q: Are there more details of the various operational phases? A: Yes, the entire glow process has been studied […]
What’s the difference between 2-, 3-, & 4-wire RDT sensing?
The difference is measurement accuracy. Using 2-wire resistance temperature detector (RTD) sensing provides good accuracy (maybe), the accuracy of 3-wire sensing is better, and 4-wire sensing provides the best accuracy. In addition, there’s the option of using Wheatstone bridge topologies to improve the performance of 2- and 3-wire RDTs. This FAQ begins with a review […]
The humble neon lamp: down, but definitely not out: Part 1
Despite the convenience and availability of LEDs, the neon lamp still has a viable position as a power-on indicator as well as use in some specialty applications. The classic neon indicator lamp with its reddish-orange glow has been used since the early 1990s. Now, the availability, convenience, longevity, and other attributes of LED-based indicators have […]
What are the types and uses of position sensors?
Position sensing is a critical function across a wide range of applications, from robot drive chains to conveyor belts in supply chain operations to the swaying of wind turbine towers. It can take many forms, including linear, rotary, angular, absolute, incremental, contact, and non-contact sensors. Specialized sensors have been developed that can determine positions in […]
What are emerging sensor technologies for Agriculture 4.0?
Agriculture 4.0 is emerging and requires an expended sensor suite. Agriculture 4.0 refers to systems that employ drones, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), vertical farms, artificial intelligence (AI), renewable energy, and advanced sensor methodologies. Agriculture 4.0 is similar to Industry 4.0 in some ways: Where Industry 4.0 is designed to support automation and mass […]
How QSFP-DD and OSFP Loopback modules are supporting multiple IO interfaces
IO Loopbacks connect digital data streams to their source without purposeful processing or modification. This serves as a diagnostic test for a device and other nodes in the network infrastructure. The return signal is compared with the transmitted signal. For several generations of electronic equipment, using a short cable assembly, molded very-high-density cable interconnect (VHDCI), […]
The difference between electronic distortion and noise
The concepts of distortion and noise in signal processing overlap to a limited extent, but they are distinct phenomena. Distortion in a signal is the alteration or change of the shape or some other characteristic of the waveform. In contrast, noise is an external random signal added to the original signal. It’s harder to remove […]
How does current sensing work?
Current sensing and measurement are important in applications such as power conversion, battery charging, and industrial processes. Different current sensing technologies are used, depending on whether the measurement is for alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) and how much current needs to be measured. This FAQ reviews Hall effect, and induction sensing and resistive […]