Multivibrator also makes true-zero output of the op-amp
While choosing an op-amp buffer, some sources of negative supply were considered, because the buffer op-amp had to provide true zero voltage on its output. In reality, a typical rail-to-rail output op-amp isn’t capable of this, it can guarantee…
An assortment of tech-hiccup tales
As 2023 draws to a close, the cadence of tech issues I’m experiencing seems to be accelerating. Some of this increase, I suspect, has to do with technologies (and the hardware and software associated with them) that I’m trying out for the…
Silicon is still viable in power, claims a new MOSFET architecture
While we’ve been hearing the drumbeat of “silicon is dead” in power semiconductors for nearly 10 years, according to Mark Granahan, CEO of iDEAL Semiconductor, it’s mainly the lack of innovation in silicon that has enabled that drumbeat.…
5G OTA test system gains CTIA approval
R&S announced that its TS8991 over-the-air (OTA) test system now provides CTIA-compliant testing of 5G A-GNSS antenna performance. The company believes this establishes the TS8991 as the first 5G FR1 A-GNSS OTA test platform to be approved…
Ethernet switch has on-chip neural network
Trident 5-X12, a software-programmable Ethernet switch from Broadcom, packs an on-chip neural-network inference engine—a first according to the company. NetGNT, which stands for networking general-purpose neural network traffic analyzer, improves…
ICs hone sensorless BLDC motor design
Three motor driver ICs from Renesas enable full torque at zero speed from brushless DC (BLDC) motors without sensors. The parts enable the creation of sensorless BLDC motor systems with higher horsepower and speed at a given torque. According…
DC/DC converter increases 5G radio head power
The NE070DC58AZ DC/DC converter from OmniOn boosts and regulates the nominal -48-VDC output provided by the Infinity S or Infinity M power system to -58 VDC. This latest addition to the Infinity family of products helps ensure constant boosted…
Mixed-signal scope doubles responsiveness
Tektronix has launched the 4 Series B mixed-signal oscilloscope (MSO), enabling quicker analysis and faster data transfer speeds. The MSO offers the same signal fidelity and touch user interface as the earlier version 4 Series, but with an upgraded…
Automated IC layout tool integrated into foundry PDK
The Calibre DesignEnhancer software, which Siemens EDA unveiled at the Design Automation Conference (DAC) in July 2023, has been incorporated into a process design kit (PDK) of Samsung Foundry. The software provides multiple use models that…
Control chip preps for cryo temperatures in quantum computers
A consortium funded by Innovate UK and led by sureCore is implementing a cryogenic control chip on the GlobalFoundries 22FDX process, and Agile Analog is working closely with sureCore to implement and verify this cryogenic test ASIC for quantum…
Exploring software-defined radio (without the annoying RF) – Part 1
I needed to come up with a communications device to transmit a handful of bytes, every hour, from a small off-grid solar system to my shop about 150 feet away. The first thought was Wi-Fi, but I already have many dozens of devices on my Wi-Fi…
Using oscilloscope filters for better measurements
Most oscilloscopes are fitted with filters to help improve measurement by reducing overall noise in an acquisition to improve signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Even the most basic oscilloscopes include an analog 20 MHz low pass filter in the input…
