Part 1 of this FAQ discussed power factor and the issues associated with power factors which are not unity, and briefly mentioned power factor correction (PFC). This FAQ explores PFC in more detail. Q: What is PFC? A: PFC is an adjustment of a load’s front-end “appearance” so it presents a resistive-like load to the […]
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Not to be forgotten: the simple, bipolar SCRs and TRIACs
Thyristors or silicon controlled rectifiers (SCRs) and TRIACs are simple bipolar devices which probably get forgotten in this high-tech, CMOS, MOSFET, digital world. A thyristor is a PNPN bipolar device, compared to a normal bipolar transistor which will be PNP or NPN. A common way of explaining their operation is to visualize the thyristor as […]
Put your finger on it: capacitive touch switching
Rather than a physical switch it is now common to use “touch” switches to interface to many types of electronic equipment. Smartphones are an obvious example but touch switches are now in cars, oscilloscopes, ovens and many other types of industrial and consumer electronics. A touch screen will usually be a specialized screen with a […]
Better development systems for IoT apps
It can be tough for engineers to plan IoT systems around services based in the cloud. New generations of development systems simplify the task. WIREN PERERA ON SEMICONDUCTOR All indications are that after a long-protracted period of discourse and speculation, 2017 is going to be the year when the Internet of Things (IoT) finally begins […]
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Low-light image sensors work at near-infrared wavelengths
ON Semiconductor is expanding its portfolio of Interline Transfer Electron Multiplication CCD (IT-EMCCD) image sensors with new options that target not only low-light industrial applications such as medical and scientific imaging, but also commercial and military applications for high-end surveillance. The new 4 megapixel KAE-04471 uses larger 7.4 micron pixels than those found in existing […]
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High performance 5.1-Megapixel imaging chip targets high-end security camera apps
ON Semiconductor has unveiled AR0521 CMOS image sensor – the first imaging product based on a 2.2 micrometer (μm) Back Side Illuminated (BSI) pixel technology platform targeted specifically at security and surveillance applications. The AR0521 is a small optical format 1/2.5-inch (7.13mm), 5 megapixel (MP) digital image sensor with an active pixel array of 2592 […]
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Power modules lessen the load on internal combustion engines
Integrated smart power modules will run mechanical loads that would otherwise sap fuel mileage. THOMAS YIM | ON SEMICONDUCTOR GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS are stimulating demands for more economical vehicles that produce not just fewer NOx pollutants, but also less CO2. Vehicle tax policies currently favor less polluting models, and car makers must cope with new legislation […]
Camera/imaging platform targets automotive applications
ON Semiconductor has introduced the Modular Automotive Reference System (MARS) that gives system and software developers a ready-to-use camera for research and development activities. The leading-edge MARS platform enables users to reconfigure cameras with different lenses, image sensors, image signal processors (ISPs) and communications options for rapid prototyping and experimentation. The system is so flexible […]
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What’s your type? Walk-thru of semiconductor diodes
There are quite a few different types of semiconductor diode from junction diodes, Schottky diodes, Zener diodes etc. You need to know the difference between them in order to select one. A good place to start the description of the types would be a comparison of a conventional PN junction diode and a fast recovery […]
Development kit for wearables includes PMIC, sensors, wireless capabilities
ON Semiconductor has utilized its strength and depth in a broad range of semiconductor disciplines – including analog, power management, sensor interface and signal conditioning – to introduce a comprehensive development resource for the wearable electronics sector. The new Wearable Development Kit (WDK1.0) combines a wide array of highly optimized components, with the objective of […]
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