Power vs energy: SSD and HDD case studies
Windows 10 isn’t scheduled to “sunset” for another two years (and a month, since I’m writing this in early September), but I’m already executing on a hardware replacement plan for my Microsoft Surface Pro 5, which isn’t sanctioned…
AI: Making the case for analog in-memory computing with DRAM
Machine learning (ML), a subset of artificial intelligence (AI), has become integral to our lives. It allows us to learn and reason from data using techniques such as deep neural network algorithms. Machine learning enables data-intensive tasks…
China’s chip ambitions and RISC-V’s open-source conundrum
The semiconductor industry-centric tensions between China and the United States have a new front: RISC-V open-source instruction set architecture (ISA). Three U.S. lawmakers are persuading the government to introduce new export rules for using…
Arbitrary waveform generator waveform creation using equations
An arbitrary waveform generator (AWG) is a powerful and flexible signal source capable of generating any wave shape within the bandwidth and amplitude range of the generator. Populating an AWG with precise and accurate waveforms can be a major…
Function generator with electronic regulation of capacitors
The possibility of creating a frequency-tunable function generator with rectangular and triangular pulses of constant amplitude and electronic synchronous control of equivalent capacitances in the master generator and integrator is shown. Such…
Fixing a fundamental flaw of self-sensing transistor thermostats
Miniature self-sensing transistor thermostats use a single transistor (BJT or FET) to serve as both a temperature sensor and stabilizing heater. These transistor thermostats are (when well designed) an effective, efficient, and inexpensive way…
Will quantum sensors arrive by 2030?
Quantum technology—encompassing computing, communication, imaging, and sensors—is starting to become visible in the commercial arena with the promise to offer exceptional reliability and less vulnerability to the signal jamming and other…
Kioxia improves e.MMC flash memory
Kioxia is sampling Embedded MultiMediaCard (e.MMC) devices based on an updated version of its BiCS Flash 3D memory that enhances read and write performance. Aimed at consumer applications, the embedded flash products are compliant with the JEDEC…
Server-class motherboard boasts 64-core processing
An ATX server-class motherboard, the K9051 from Kontron supports Intel 4th/5th Gen Xeon scalable processors with up to 64 cores. The LGA 4677-socketed processor has a maximum thermal design power (TDP) of 350 W maximum and is paired with an…
5-nm PAM4 DSP packs VCSEL drivers
KeystoneMM, a PAM4 DSP from MaxLinear, integrates VCSEL drivers for 800G and 400G multimode short-reach optical modules and active optical cables. The 5-nm CMOS device reduces both power consumption and cost for active optical cables (AOCs)…
MCU integrates application accelerator
As the premier member of the Renesas RL78 family of MCUs, the RL78/G24 runs at 48 MHz and packs a flexible application accelerator (FAA) to boost performance. Numerous timers and analog functions make the 16-bit microcontroller well-suited for…
Radio coprocessors target in-vehicle infotainment
Digital radio coprocessors in Skyworks’ Si469x series demodulate and decode up to four digital radio channels in automotive infotainment systems. The devices support HD Radio, DAB/DAB+, DRM for AM and FM, and CDR, providing design flexibility…
