ELE Times

Infineon Technologies AG introduces the new CoolSiC MOSFETs 2000 V in the TO-247PLUS-4-HCC package to meet designers’ demand for increased power density without compromising the system’s reliability even under demanding high voltage and switching frequency conditions. The CoolSiC MOSFETs offer a higher DC link voltage so that the power can be increased without increasing the current. It is the first discrete silicon carbide device with a breakdown voltage of 2000 V on the market and comes in a TO-247PLUS-4-HCC package with a creepage distance of 14 mm and a clearance distance of 5.4 mm. With low switching losses, the devices are ideal for solar (e.g. string inverters) as well as energy storage systems and electric vehicle charging applications.

The CoolSiC MOSFET 2000 V product family is ideally suited for high DC link systems with up to 1500 VDC. Compared to 1700 V SiC MOSFETs, the devices also provide a sufficiently high overvoltage margin for 1500 VDC systems. The CoolSiC MOSFETs deliver a benchmark gate threshold voltage of 4.5 V and are equipped with a robust body diode for hard commutation. Due to the .XT connection technology, the components offer first-class thermal performance. They are also highly resistant to humidity.

In addition to the CoolSiC MOSFETs 2000 V, Infineon will soon be launching the matching CoolSiC diodes: The first launch will be the 2000 V diode portfolio in the TO-247PLUS 4-pin package in the third quarter of 2024, followed by the 2000 V CoolSiC diode portfolio in the TO-247-2 package in the final quarter of 2024. These diodes are particularly suitable for solar applications. A matching gate driver portfolio is also available.

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Motor drive applications are taking a leap forward with the launch of the Infineon Technologies AG OptiMOS 6 200 V MOSFET product family. The new portfolio is designed to deliver optimal performance in applications such as e-scooters, micro-EVs, and E-forklifts. The improved conduction losses and switching behaviour for these new MOSFETs reduce the electromagnetic interference (EMI) and switching losses. This benefits various switching applications, including servers, telecom, energy storage systems (ESS), audio, solar and others. Additionally, the combination of a wide safe operating area (SOA) and industry-leading RDS(on) results in a perfect fit for static switching applications such as battery management systems. With the introduction of the new OptiMOS 6 200 V product family, Infineon sets a new industry benchmark with increased power density, efficiency, and system reliability for its customers’ benefit.

The OptiMOS 6 200 V portfolio delivers enhanced technical features compared to its predecessor, the OptiMOS 3. It features a 42 per cent lower RDS(on) that contributes to reduced conduction losses and increased output power. Regarding diode behaviour, the OptiMOS 6 200 V provides a significant increase in softness, more than three times that of the OptiMOS 3. Combined with up to 89 per cent reduction in Qrr(typ), the switching and EMI behaviours are significantly improved. The technology also features improvements in parasitic capacitance linearity (Coss and Crss), which reduces oscillation during switching and lowers voltage overshoot. A tighter VGS(th) spread and lower transconductance aid in MOSFET paralleling and current sharing, leading to more uniform temperatures and reducing the number of paralleled MOSFETs.

The OptiMOS 6 200 V products feature an improved SOA and are classified as MSL 1 according to J-STD-020. These RoHS-compliant, lead-free products align with current industry standards.

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Offering Drop-in Replacements for Existing Solutions, IrDA-Compliant Devices Feature New In-House IC and Surface Emitter Chip Technology

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. has announced that it has upgraded its TFBS4xx and TFDU4xx series of infrared (IR) transceiver modules for IrDA applications to offer 20 % longer link distance and improved ESD robustness to 2 kV. With support for data rates up to 115.2 kbit/s (SIR) and link distances of 1 meter, the devices are intended for wireless communication and data transmission in energy meters and monitors, industrial automation controls, mobile phones, and medical equipment. To increase battery life in portable devices, the modules offer low power consumption with an idle supply current of < 70 μA, down to < 1 μA in shutdown mode.

Devices in the Vishay Semiconductors TFBS4xxx and TFDU4xxx series each consist of a PIN photodiode, infrared emitter (IRED), and low-power control IC in a single package. By upgrading the IR transceivers with Vishay’s latest in-house IC and surface emitter chip technology, the company is assuring the long-term availability of IRDC products for its customers. As drop-in replacements for existing devices, the modules help save costs by eliminating the need for PCB redesigns.

Compliant with the latest IrDA physical layer specification, TFBS4xxx and TFDU4xxx series devices are backwards-compatible and are offered in top- and side-view surface-mount packages. The enhanced solutions provide drop-in, plug-and-play replacements for existing devices in the series.

RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, and Vishay Green, the devices are offered in a variety of package sizes and feature a wide operating voltage range from 2.4 V to 5.5 V and an operating temperature range from -25 °C to +85 °C.

Device Specification Table:

Part #	Dimensions (mm)
TFBS4650	1.6 by 6.8 by 2.8
TFBS4652	1.6 by 6.8 by 2.8
TFBS4711	1.9 by 6 by 3
TFDU4101	4 by 9.7 by 4.7
TFDU4301	3.1 by 8.5 by 2.5

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Featuring 64 Cerebras CS-3 Systems, Condor Galaxy 3 Doubles Performance at Same Power and Cost

Cerebras Systems, the pioneer in accelerating generative AI, and G42, the Abu Dhabi-based leading technology holding group, today announced the build of Condor Galaxy 3 (CG-3), the third cluster of their constellation of AI supercomputers, the Condor Galaxy. Featuring 64 of Cerebras’ newly announced CS-3 systems – all powered by the industry’s fastest AI chip, the Wafer-Scale Engine 3 (WSE-3) – Condor Galaxy 3 will deliver 8 exaFLOPs of AI with 58 million AI-optimized cores.

The Cerebras and G42 strategic partnership already delivered 8 exaFLOPs of AI supercomputing performance via Condor Galaxy 1 and Condor Galaxy 2, each amongst the largest AI supercomputers in the world. Located in Dallas, Texas, Condor Galaxy 3 brings the current total of the Condor Galaxy network to 16 exaFLOPs.

“With Condor Galaxy 3, we continue to achieve our joint vision of transforming the worldwide inventory of AI computing through the development of the world’s largest and fastest AI supercomputers,” said Kiril Evtimov, Group CTO of G42. “The existing Condor Galaxy network has trained some of the leading open-source models in the industry, with tens of thousands of downloads. By doubling the capacity to 16 exaFLOPs, we look forward to seeing the next wave of innovation Condor Galaxy supercomputers can enable.”

At the heart of Condor Galaxy 3 are 64 Cerebras CS-3 Systems. Each CS-3 is powered by the new 4 trillion transistor, 900,000 AI core WSE-3. Manufactured at TSMC at the 5-nanometer node, the WSE-3 delivers twice the performance at the same power and for the same price as the previous generation part. Purpose-built for training the industry’s largest AI models, WSE-3 delivers an astounding 125 petaflops of peak AI performance per chip.

“We are proud that our newly announced CS-3 systems will play a critical role in our pioneering strategic partnership with G42,” said Andrew Feldman, CEO and co-founder of Cerebras. “Condor Galaxy 3 and the follow-on supercomputers, will together deliver tens of exaflops of AI compute This marks a significant milestone in AI computing, providing unparalleled processing power and efficiency.”

Condor Galaxy has trained state-of-the-art industry-leading generative AI models, including Jais-30B, Med42, Crystal-Coder-7B and BTLM-3B-8K. Jais 13B and Jais30B are the best bilingual Arabic models in the world, now available on Azure Cloud. BTLM-3B-8K is the number one leading 3B model on HuggingFace, offering 7B parameter performance in a light 3B parameter model for inference. Med42, developed with M42 and Core42, is a leading clinical LLM, trained on Condor Galaxy 1 in a weekend and surpassing MedPaLM on performance and accuracy.

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Third Generation 5nm Wafer Scale Engine (WSE-3) Powers Industry’s Most Scalable AI Supercomputers, Up To 256 exaFLOPs via 2048 Nodes

Cerebras Systems, the pioneer in accelerating generative AI, has doubled down on its existing world record of fastest AI chip with the introduction of the Wafer Scale Engine 3. The WSE-3 delivers twice the performance of the previous record-holder, the Cerebras WSE-2, at the same power draw and for the same price. Purpose built for training the industry’s largest AI models, the 5nm-based, 4 trillion transistor WSE-3 powers the Cerebras CS-3 AI supercomputer, delivering 125 petaflops of peak AI performance through 900,000 AI optimized compute cores.

Key Specs:

• 4 trillion transistors
• 900,000 AI cores
• 125 petaflops of peak AI performance
• 44GB on-chip SRAM
• 5nm TSMC process
• External memory: 1.5TB, 12TB, or 1.2PB
• Trains AI models up to 24 trillion parameters
• Cluster size of up to 2048 CS-3 systems

With a huge memory system of up to 1.2 petabytes, the CS-3 is designed to train next generation frontier models 10x larger than GPT-4 and Gemini. 24 trillion parameter models can be stored in a single logical memory space without partitioning or refactoring, dramatically simplifying training workflow and accelerating developer productivity. Training a one-trillion parameter model on the CS-3 is as straightforward as training a one billion parameter model on GPUs.

The CS-3 is built for both enterprise and hyperscale needs. Compact four system configurations can fine tune 70B models in a day while at full scale using 2048 systems, Llama 70B can be trained from scratch in a single day – an unprecedented feat for generative AI.

The latest Cerebras Software Framework provides native support for PyTorch 2.0 and the latest AI models and techniques such as multi-modal models, vision transformers, mixture of experts, and diffusion. Cerebras remains the only platform that provides native hardware acceleration for dynamic and unstructured sparsity, speeding up training by up to 8x.

“When we started on this journey eight years ago, everyone said wafer-scale processors were a pipe dream. We could not be more proud to be introducing the third-generation of our groundbreaking water scale AI chip,” said Andrew Feldman, CEO and co-founder of Cerebras.

“WSE-3 is the fastest AI chip in the world, purpose-built for the latest cutting-edge AI work, from mixture of experts to 24 trillion parameter models. We are thrilled for bring WSE-3 and CS-3 to market to help solve today’s biggest AI challenges.”

Superior Power Efficiency and Software Simplicity

With every component optimized for AI work, CS-3 delivers more compute performance at less space and less power than any other system. While GPUs power consumption is doubling generation to generation, the CS-3 doubles performance but stays within the same power envelope. the CS-3 offers superior ease of use, requiring 97% less code than GPUs for LLMs and the ability to train models ranging from 1B to 24T parameters in purely data parallel mode. A standard implementation of a GPT-3 sized model required just 565 lines of code on Cerebras – an industry record.

Industry Partnerships and Customer Momentum

Cerebras already has a sizeable backlog of orders for CS-3 across enterprise, government and international clouds.

“As a long-time partner of Cerebras, we are excited to see what’s possible with the evolution of wafer-scale engineering. CS-3 and the supercomputers based on this architecture are powering novel scale systems that allow us to explore the limits of frontier AI and science,” said Rick Stevens, Argonne National Laboratory Associate Laboratory Director for Computing, Environment and Life Sciences.  “The audacity of what Cerebras is doing matches our ambition, and it matches how we think about the future.”

“As part of our multi-year strategic collaboration with Cerebras to develop AI models that improve patient outcomes and diagnoses, we are excited to see advancements being made on the technology capabilities to enhance our efforts,” said Dr. Matthew Callstrom, M.D., Mayo Clinic’s medical director for strategy and chair of radiology.

The CS-3 will also play an important role in the pioneering strategic partnership between Cerebras and G42. The Cerebras and G42 partnership has already delivered 8 exaFLOPs of AI supercomputer performance via Condor Galaxy 1 (CG-1) and Condor Galaxy 2 (CG-2). Both CG-1 and CG-2, deployed in California, are among the largest AI supercomputers in the world.

Today, Cerebras and G42 announced that Condor Galaxy 3 is under construction. Condor Galaxy 3 will be built with 64 CS-3 systems, producing 8 exaFLOPs of AI compute, one of the largest AI supercomputers in the world. Condor Galaxy 3 is the third installation in the Condor Galaxy network. The Cerebras G42 strategic partnership is set to deliver tens of exaFLOPs of AI compute. Condor Galaxy has trained some of the industry’s leading open-source models, including Jais-30B, Med42, Crystal-Coder-7B and BTLM-3B-8K.

“Our strategic partnership with Cerebras has been instrumental in propelling innovation at G42, and will contribute to the acceleration of the AI revolution on a global scale,” said Kiril Evtimov, Group CTO of G42.  “Condor Galaxy 3, our next AI supercomputer boasting 8 exaFLOPs, is currently under construction and will soon bring our system’s total production of AI compute to 16 exaFLOPs.”

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STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, has been named a Top 100 Global Innovators in 2024. The annual list from Clarivate, a global leader in providing transformative intelligence, identifies organizations leading the world in technology research and innovation.

“Being recognized as a Top 100 Global Innovator 2024 for the sixth time demonstrates the consistent quality of our R&D and the innovation power of our teams,” said Alessandro Cremonesi, Executive Vice President, Chief Innovation Officer, STMicroelectronics. “The continued strength of our innovation is achieved by placing ST at the center of a global innovation ecosystem, based on cooperative R&D with our global network of academic and private partners, helping us drive sustainable growth by enabling smarter mobility, more efficient power and energy management, edge AI, and the wide-scale deployment of cloud-connected autonomous things.”

In 2023 ST invested approximately 12.2% of net revenues in R&D, has over 9,500 R&D employees, and engages in extensive collaboration with leading research labs and corporate partners throughout the world. The Company’s Innovation Office focuses on connecting emerging market trends with internal technology expertise to identify opportunities, stay ahead of the competition, and lead in new or existing technology domains. ST is recognized as a leading semiconductor technology innovator in a number of areas including smart power technologies, wide bandgap semiconductors, edge AI solutions, MEMS sensors and actuators, optical sensing, and digital and mixed-signal technologies.

Gordon Samson, President, Intellectual Property, Clarivate, said, “To feature as a Top 100 Global Innovator is no mean feat as maintaining an edge in the innovation ecosystem is harder than ever. Organizations must balance experimentation and risk with discipline and reward. We measure and rank innovative performance in a dynamic and thorough way, using live thresholds of differentiation. At Clarivate, we think forward by analyzing the quality of ideas, their potency and their impact to identify the world’s top innovators, and this year we reveal the ranking of these innovators for the first time.”

To build the Top 100 Global Innovators 2024 report, the Clarivate Center for IP and Innovation Research measures the quality of ideas, their potency and their effect. To achieve this, they combine modern analytical architecture with over 60 years of experience from Derwent World Patents Index (DWPI) and Derwent Patent Citation Index.

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The Korea Radio Promotion Association (Korea, hereafter RAPA) and Anritsu Corporation (Japan) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on February 22, 2024, at Anritsu Headquarters defining their mutual cooperation on Beyond 5G (B5G) and 6th Generation Mobile Communication Systems (6G), which will be the next generations of communication standards.

Through this agreement, RAPA and Anritsu plan to cooperate in multiple fields to support the development of these technologies, such as configuring a test environment capable of validating the candidate frequency bands for B5G/6G, specifically the FR3 (7 GHz to 24 GHz) and the sub-THz band (100 GHz and above), as well as the technical cooperation from proof of concept (PoC) phase.

Starting this year, RAPA plans to establish the “Anritsu B5G/6G Test Lab” at its Song-do IoT Technical Support Center in Incheon where it will build a test infrastructure and gradually upgrade the installed equipment. This initiative will create an environment in South Korea where the verification of 6G mobile communication technologies can be conducted efficiently using Anritsu’s MT8000A 5G test equipment extended to 6G capability.

In addition, users of the Anritsu B5G/6G Test Lab, including B5G/6G antenna and module manufacturers, will be able to verify the concept verification from the phase of developing the basic technology in the B5G/6G field. With the recent launch of the 6G technology development project in Korea, it will also be possible to verify the results of related government R&D projects.

Song Jung-su, Vice President of RAPA stated, “This agreement will serve as an opportunity for RAPA and Anritsu to strengthen their leadership in the B5G/6G field. Based on RAPA’s verification infrastructure, we expect to be at the forefront of activating the domestic 6G industry and advancing mobile communication technologies in Korea by providing verification environments and conducting development verification in the B5G/6G field.”

Yu Hyun-kil, President of Anritsu Corporation, Ltd., Korea, expressed, “We look forward to contributing to the formation of an industry-academia-laboratory ecosystem for the B5G/6G fields by providing new verification environments and contributing to the development verification environment as we move beyond 5G. Anritsu aims to demonstrate growth as a specialist solution provider in the field of mobile communications, based on our ever-evolving base station simulator technologies.”

Takeshi Shima, Director, Senior Vice President, Test & Measurement Company President of Anritsu Corporation, stated, “Anritsu is engaged in fundamental research in the B5G/6G field and is confident that this agreement will be an important step in the development of the B5G/6G industry. Anritsu, in collaboration with its industry-leading partners, aims to become a highly reliable test solution provider in the field of “Next Generation Communications”, one of Korea’s national strategic technologies, and will contribute to the revitalization of the industry.”

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Ensures stable output in automotive applications with high input voltage and significant load jumps

ROHM has developed 45V rated 500mA output primary LDO regulators: BD9xxM5-C (BD933M5EFJ-C / BD950M5EFJ-C / BD900M5EFJ-C / BD933M5WEFJ-C / BD950M5WEFJ-C / BD900M5WEFJ-C). These devices are suitable for supplying power to automotive electronic components such as ECUs that operate from vehicle batteries.

In recent years, the number of onboard power supply systems and functions continues to grow as electrification in the automotive industry progresses. This increases the demand for primary LDOs that can directly step down the battery voltage to MCUs and other components used in ECUs. However, the energy supplied by the vehicle’s lead-acid battery is often subject to sudden voltage fluctuations, which primary LDOs are required to provide with excellent line-transient response in these conditions.

At the same time, ECUs and other downstream devices often experience load current variations during operation, which also demand excellent load-transient response characteristics. A high-frequency response is essential for fast output voltage recovery, but it has been difficult to provide sufficient phase margin at the same time to ensure stable operation. In response, ROHM developed a novel solution that addresses these challenges.

The BD9xxM5-C incorporates original QuiCur high-speed load response technology that delivers excellent response characteristics to load current fluctuations. For example, the LDO can maintain output to within 100mV of the set voltage even as the load changes between 0 and 500mA in 1μs (Rise time/Fall time). Furthermore, low 9.5µA (typ.) current consumption contributes to lower power consumption in automotive applications. These new products will be available in four packages, ranging from the compact HTSOP-J8 to the high heat dissipation TO252 (TO252-3/TO252-5) and HRP5 types. This allows users to select the most suitable package for each use case.

Going forward, ROHM will continue to improve reliability while reducing power consumption in automotive applications by developing products utilizing its strengths in analogue and other technologies.

Product Lineup

The new BD9xxM5-C meets the basic requirements for automotive products, including 150°C operation and qualification under the AEC-Q100 automotive reliability standard. A wide range of packages will be available to select from depending on the application environment, all featuring excellent response performance and low current consumption using proprietary QuiCur technology.

The lineup will be expanded to comprise a total of 18 models, (including the TO252-3, TO252-5, and HRP5 packages) by FY2024.

Application Examples

Suitable for a wide range of automotive applications such as ECUs that operate on vehicle primary power supply systems.

• Powertrain: Fuel Injection (FI), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Body Systems: Body Control Modules
• Infotainment: Instrument Clusters, Head-Up Displays (HUDs)

QuiCur High-Speed Load Response Technology

QuiCur is the name of ROHM’s proprietary ‘Quick Current’ high-speed load response circuit capable of maximizing load response characteristics (response performance) without causing instability in the feedback circuits of power supply ICs.

Stable operation of the power supply IC is also possible with minimal output capacitance. And in the case of switching regulators, which are a type of power supply IC, it is possible to linearly adjust the capacitance and output voltage fluctuation to easily achieve stable operation even when the capacitance is changed due to specification changes, significantly reducing the number of person-hours required for power circuit design – both in terms of decreasing component count and ensuring stable operation.

Support Tools

ROHM Real Models are high-accuracy SPICE models that utilize original model-based technology to faithfully reproduce the electrical and temperature characteristics of the actual IC, resulting in a perfect match between the IC and simulation values. This ensures reliable verification, contributing to more efficient application development – for example by preventing rework after prototyping.

Terminology

Primary

In a power supply circuit, the side in charge of 1st stage conversion from a power source such as a battery is called the primary and the side responsible for 2nd stage conversion is referred to as the secondary.

LDO Regulator (Low Drop Out/Low Saturation Regulator)

A type of power supply IC that converts between two different DC voltage levels. Falls under the category of linear regulator (where the input/output voltages operate linearly) characterized by a small input-output voltage difference. Compared to DC-DC converter ICs (switching regulators), LDOs feature a simpler circuit configuration and lower noise.

Load Current

From the point of view of the power supply ICs, all electronic circuits in the subsequent stages, including MCUs and sensors, can be considered “loads”. When these loads operate, a (load) current flows, causing the output voltage of the power supply IC to undershoot (drop) or overshoot. Load transient response characteristics refer to the response time until the changed voltage due to the load current is restored and the power supply stabilizes.

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Sky One is a multinational conglomerate with a strong impact on all areas of aviation. They have ventured into diverse products and services like- Cargo Charter, Asset Trading, MRO, ACMI, Capacity Optimization, Consultancy, Passenger Airlines, Helicopters, Spare parts, Flight Operations Support, Relief Support, and Venture Capital.

Sky One Group has a portfolio of diverse aviation assets both rotor and fixed wing. It operates Bell412, Mi172 helicopters in India and Indonesia, and Boeing 747 and IL76 in the Middle East, Europe, and China, and Bombardier aircraft in India. It also operates a fleet of Mi-8 helicopters. Sky One has a specialized charter business for passengers going for Hajj and Umrah. It specializes in wet leasing with several leading passengers and global cargo airlines from China, Africa, and the Middle East, making it one of the leading privately-owned aviation companies in the Gulf.

Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One FZE

Rashi Bajpai, Sub-Editor at ELE Times had an opportunity to interact with Mr. Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One FZE, and discuss various aspects of the global aviation industry and Sky One’s product portfolio and competitive edge.

This is an excerpt from the interview.

 

 

 

ELE Times: How is the aviation sector currently positioned for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)?

Mr Jaideep: Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) made from biomass or waste-based organic feedstock aim to decrease greenhouse gas emissions in the aviation industry.  However, as cited by the World Economic Forum in its 2023 report on SAF (What is SAF and why are only 0.1% of flights powered by it?) there is a need to overcome some key challenges including the substantial cost burden of SAF compared to petroleum jet fuel, the low percentage of global consumption, the necessity for a greater diversity of feedstocks and production methods, and the requirement for a favourable tax policy to incentivize its production.

Many countries are developing strategies for the adoption of SAF. For instance, in January, India’s Civil Aviation Ministry proposed a 1-5% usage of SAF starting in 2027 in alignment with the second phase of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), as suggested by ICAO. Similarly, other major countries have also established SAF volume targets and adoption timelines based on their net zero goals.

Currently, SAF needs to be blended with traditional aviation fuel. Ongoing research aims to use SAF as a direct replacement, eliminating the need for aircraft engine modifications, though this process will take more time.

ELE Times: Tell us about some of the latest technologies and trends that airlines including Sky One are now focusing on to enhance the customer experience.

Mr Jaideep: Today’s passengers seek more than just connectivity; they desire an experience tailored to their individual preferences, right from the moment they book a flight to the time they land. Recognizing the digital sophistication of the new-age passenger, airlines are investing in technology-focused training initiatives to elevate the proficiency of their staff.

This strategic upskilling empowers the workforce to navigate digital platforms and communication tools effectively, ensuring a seamless and user-friendly experience for passengers. At Sky One, our emphasis is also on streamlining operations with a more agile and responsive approach to handling disruptions. We are also leveraging the most efficient communication channels for personalised interactions. I foresee an even more advanced integration of AI not only for customer service but also for predictive maintenance, fuel optimisation, crew scheduling, and revenue management. However, as technology advances, it also brings about potential security and privacy risks, and it is important to effectively manage passengers’ data and ensure their privacy.

ELE Times: What are your views on emerging solutions in “all-electric air mobility service”?

Mr Jaideep: Current reports indicate that many companies are actively developing air taxis and flying cars, with expectations that OEMs will certify them by 2025. Airbus has already announced CityAirbus NextGen, an all-electric, four-seat vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) prototype based on a lift and cruise concept, featuring an 80-km operational range and a cruise speed of 120 km/h suitable for various flight operations in cities and communities.

In India, the prospects for electric air taxis are bright, as InterGlobe Enterprise, the parent company of IndiGo, has announced plans to launch an all-electric taxi service in 2026 in partnership with the US-based Archer Aviation. Predictions suggest that electric aircraft, capable of taking off like helicopters and flying like airplanes, may enter commercial service by the end of the coming year or early 2026.

As far as my views are concerned, I believe such innovations in aviation are inevitable.  However, the air taxi industry may not experience a significant boom until the end of this decade. Initial instances of eVTOL craft are also most likely to be limited to military and cargo applications. Passenger services, I believe, will not only need additional infrastructure facilities but also supportive policy decisions regarding practical applications in urban areas.

ELE Times: Give us a brief overview of your product catalogue, its specifications, and major USP.

Mr Jaideep: Our catalogue includes a wide range of services, such as cargo charters, MRO, wet leasing support to passenger airlines, training, helicopter services, and flight operations support for relief missions. Recently, we’ve inked pacts with Fly Oya from Libya, Uplift Airport Services in Romania, and Cerium Air in Kazakhstan, further expanding our services globally. For startup airlines, we also provide advantageous lease terms on our top-quality aircraft. Further, Pier Seven Aviation, an important part of Sky One, has been committed to delivering high-quality flight training and education to aspiring pilots worldwide since 2015.

At the core of Sky One’s aviation philosophy is humanism, which spurs us to serve, help, and connect individuals and communities in need. This ethos is reflected in our comprehensive services, particularly our active involvement in relief support. We have a dedicated team trained to mobilise swiftly, ensuring the prompt deployment of essential resources, including aircraft, personnel, and equipment, to affected areas dealing with a humanitarian crisis or a natural disaster.

ELE Times: What, in your opinion, are the key growth drivers behind markets like India, and could you provide insights into the market outlook for 2024, with a focus on your expectations?

Mr Jaideep: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has recently strengthened profitability projections for airlines in 2024, anticipating a notable upswing in the industry’s net overall revenues. The forecast indicates that travel figures will surge to 4.7 billion people in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels—a highly positive sign for the aviation sector. This growth is primarily attributed to emerging economies, with India being highlighted by IATA as one of the most promising markets for global aviation and a key player in shaping the industry’s future landscape.

India’s surge in aviation is fueled by the rapid growth of its domestic sector. According to data compiled by aviation analytics firm Network Thoughts, India’s domestic air travel achieved a historic milestone in 2023, with a record-breaking 15.2 crore passengers—surpassing the previous peak of 14.4 crore passengers in 2019. With the significant emphasis the government is placing on Regional Connectivity Schemes, coupled with a focus on enhanced airport capacity and the addition of new destinations, this will further contribute to maintaining the growth momentum. Domestic travellers can expect an enhanced travel experience in the coming years with more travel options to Tier-II and III cities.

Meanwhile, the international travel trends from India suggest that the Middle East and North America will continue to be major revenue drivers, as has been the case for several years. It is anticipated that the Middle East will persist in dominating the traffic flows from India, with over 40% of international traffic heading to the region, and Dubai alone capturing nearly 15% of it.

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Indium Corporation, a global leader in materials science and electronics assembly solutions, commemorated its 90th anniversary on March 13, 2024. Indium Corporation’s innovative products, especially its advanced soldering solutions, are found in many common consumer electronics and high-reliability technologies such as electric vehicles, mobile devices, life-saving medical devices, and emerging 5G technology to name just a few.

Indium Corporation was founded in Utica, NY, U.S. in 1934 by Dr. William S. Murray who was instrumental in identifying and enabling the first commercially viable applications for indium metal. Today, the company is a premier materials refiner, smelter, manufacturer, and supplier to the global electronics, semiconductor, thin-film, and thermal management markets with facilities in China, Germany, India, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the U.S.

The company’s products include solders and fluxes; brazes; thermal interface materials; sputtering targets; indium, gallium, germanium, and tin metals and inorganic compounds; and NanoFoil. Currently, over 5 million EVs are on the road with Indium Corporation’s proven solder and thermal management solutions for high reliability. Additionally, products such as award-winning Durafuse LT and the company’s Reclaim and Recycle initiative are at the forefront of sustainability within the industry.

“This milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees, the trust of our customers, and the support of our global partners,” said President and COO Ross Berntson. “It also provides a great opportunity to reflect on our achievements, celebrate our present successes, and envision a richer future enabled by Indium Corporation’s materials science.”

“True to Dr. Murray’s enduring legacy, we continue to be motivated by curiosity to view materials in new ways,” Berntson added. “Fueled by a commitment to research and development, our industry thought leaders and cutting-edge products, Indium Corporation continues to innovate and grow.”

Indium Corporation is committed to playing a leadership role in the future of the global electronics assembly industry. In 2023 alone, the company joined the American Semiconductor Innovation Coalition (ASIC), European Center for Power Electronics (ECPE), and India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA). Within the same year, Indium Corporation was also honoured with CIRCUITS ASSEMBLY’s New Product Introduction Award, EM World’s Innovation Award, IEEE Malaysia’s Outstanding Industry Award for Innovation, Electronics Maker’s Best of Industry Award for Best Soldering Product of the Year, two Global Technology Awards from Global SMT & Packaging in Flux and Adhesive/Underfills/Encapsulants categories, Mexico EMS’ Mexico Technology Award for Solder Paste, and SMTA’s Technical Distinction Award bestowed upon Dr. HongWen Zhang.

In addition to its industry-leading products and technical expertise, Indium Corporation also proudly supports the communities in which it operates through charitable contributions, advancing STEM education at all levels, and fostering workforce development in STEM industries. Indium Corporation also works with military veterans to make successful transitions to private sector careers. Through its outreach efforts, the company impacts more than 5,000 lives annually.

“Just as we believe that materials science changes the world, we believe that today’s students will build our future successes,” said Associate Vice President of Human Resources Dawn Roller. “To that end, we are committed to bolstering community educational resources, especially those that advance the promise and vitally important work being done in STEM fields.”

The post Indium Corporation Celebrates 90 Years of Materials Science Innovation appeared first on ELE Times.

The informative virtual Rohde & Schwarz event will span two half days, offering design engineers the opportunity to attend application-oriented presentations delivered by oscilloscope experts. Eight online workshop sessions will provide insights into different day-to-day testing challenges that electronic design engineers face when using oscilloscopes.

Rohde & Schwarz has announced that its popular Oscilloscope Days educational event will return for two days, April 17 to 18, 2024. Experts from Rohde & Schwarz and partner companies will present the latest updates on fundamentals and test features for engineers using next-generation oscilloscopes, covering topics such as power electronics and EMC, as well as signal and power integrity.

The Oscilloscope Days event will be hosted online over two days and will deliver insights into the accurate measurement of digital signals and power electronics for purposes including product design, development, debugging and compliance testing. Rohde & Schwarz application engineers together with experts from long-time event partners Würth Elektronik and PE-Systems will present measurement challenges and techniques.

There will be eight online sessions of up to 30 minutes each over the two mornings, with time for questions and answers after each session. Each session will be presented in English and will include cases based on real applications. Registrants can select the sessions they wish to attend.

The first day will open with a keynote by Professor Ingmar Kallfass of the University of Stuttgart, who will examine power-cycling patterns associated with applications for wide-bandgap semiconductor components.

With a focus on test and setup design challenges, the day will continue with Nicholas Le Bas from Rohde & Schwarz in cooperation with Robert Schillinger and Mohamed Al-Alami from Würth Elektronik describing high voltage and current measurements as well as analysis of buck converters. Sofia Perez-Simbor from Rohde & Schwarz will join the two Würth Elektronik experts for the next session, which will focus on ensuring EMC. They will show how to efficiently use an oscilloscope for typical spectrum analysis applications, and they will examine the EMC pre-compliant design of a boost converter.

To start the second day, Jens Schweickhardt from PE-Systems and Alexander Küllmer from Rohde & Schwarz will describe measurements on power electronics and power supplies. After the morning break, Adrian Stirn from Würth Elektronik and Pasi Suhonen from Rohde & Schwarz will show how to ensure coexistence between multiple data ports in smart devices.

Philip Diegmann, Vice President Oscilloscopes at Rohde & Schwarz, said: “The subjects for our Oscilloscope Days event are hand-picked to cover issues that many engineers are encountering in their current projects. Attending provides the opportunity to interact with our presenting teams to see and discuss effective solutions. We are fortunate that our event partners continue to provide highly skilled and engaging presenters.” As a maker of filters and inductors, Würth Elektronik has expertise in the measurement techniques needed to ensure proper circuit layout. PE-Systems is a provider of online tools for power-system analysis and automated test systems to solve challenges such as calculating power converter switching losses.

Alexander Gerfer, CTO of Würth Elektronik eiSos Group, said, “The application-oriented content of all sessions ensures high added value for engineers attending the event. That’s why we have supported Rohde & Schwarz as an event partner for several years.”

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Electronics and industrial design engineers can benefit from these ultra-compact AC/DC power supplies, available in PCB and chassis mount packages, for demanding building automation, industrial, and IT applications.

element14 is now stocking the TMPW Series of ultra-compact AC/DC power supplies from Traco Power.

The 5-50 Watt encapsulated power supplies are available in both PCB and chassis mount packages. The chassis mount models come with screw terminals or optional JST connectors and have an extended input range of 90 – 305 VAC, making them ideal for use in a wide range of industrial and household/building applications.

Other features of the TMPW series include an I/O-isolation voltage of 4000 VAC, operating temperature range of –40°C to +70°C, and Class II safety approvals. Additionally, an internal EN 55032 Class B filter saves valuable space for an otherwise often mandatory external filter. The series is also ERP ready, which means that it has an energy-efficient design, with less than 0.1 Watt standby power consumption, and satisfies tomorrow’s requirements for compact green power applications around the globe.

element14 Product Segment Leader for Traco Power, Steve Hallgate, said, “The TMPW Series of AC/DC power supplies from Traco Power is an excellent addition to element14’s power portfolio. With their compact size, extended input range, and energy-efficient design, these power supplies are sure to be a hit with engineers and designers alike.”

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The strengthened collaboration between Hera Group and Panasonic Industry aims to improve safety and sustainability with NexMeter technology for Italian and European utilities.

The Italian-based Hera Group and Panasonic Industry Europe announce the renewal of our longstanding collaboration. This entails a new commercial agreement designed to extend the reach of the innovative NexMeter meter within the Italian gas distribution market. The NexMeter, initially launched in 2019 as a smart gas meter 4.0, has evolved over time, incorporating advanced safety features and, since 2021, utilizing recycled plastic components.

Boasting compatibility with green gas mixtures like hydrogen and biomethane, NexMeter has already garnered interest from several utilities, with potential future partnerships on the horizon. The collaboration with Hera and Panasonic Industry aims to enhance NexMeter’s capabilities, surpassing national standards and offering Italian operators a meter that not only prioritizes safety and sustainability but also enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and contributes to the decarbonization goals of the sector.

“We are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey with one of the largest Italian multiutilities in Italy,” said Johannes Spatz, President of Panasonic Industry Europe. “This partnership represents not only a collaboration to provide our Japanese-developed know-how and technology, enhancing safety in gas installations across Italy and Europe, but also marks a significant step in our commitment to innovation. The agreement with Hera Group opens new avenues for introducing NexMeter to other utility providers, revolutionizing gas distribution infrastructure with advanced metering technology. For the Panasonic Industry, this collaboration is the beginning of new developments, extending NexMeter’s performance to new functionalities, aiming to be a technological reference for the future’s second generation of smart gas meters. Our strong ambition is to position ourselves as a key partner in the Italian and European markets, providing cutting-edge solutions for gas distribution and integrating advanced technology with an IoT software platform for continuous field monitoring. This partnership with Hera Group also offers the prospect of joint initiatives and projects, aligning with our shared objectives in environmental sustainability, carbon dioxide emissions reduction, and the principles of the circular economy, all integral components of Panasonic’s GREEN IMPACT plan.”

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Frankfurt am Main, 08 March 2024. The modern building is intelligent, connected and as a result saves energy. In combination with alternative energy sources and efficient lighting solutions, emissions in the building sector can be drastically reduced. This makes a significant contribution to achieving climate targets. 2,169 exhibitors presented the latest developments in building technology and trends in innovative lighting design at Light + Building in Frankfurt am Main from 3 to 8 March 2024. Over 151,000 visitors travelled to the world’s leading trade fair for lighting and building-services technology.

“The atmosphere at the exhibitors’ booths, in the halls and throughout the exhibition grounds was simply fantastic. We are extremely pleased that so many exhibitors and visitors, as well as our long-standing partners, have continued the success story of the world’s leading trade fair for lighting and building-services technology in 2024,” summarises Wolfgang Marzin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Messe Frankfurt. He adds: “With the switch to renewable energy sources, greater efficiency and sustainability in buildings, the industry has key goals on its agenda. That’s why they used the platform intensively, especially in the first few days, to present and discover innovations and drive forward key topics. After all, if we want to achieve the climate protection goals, the building sector is an essential milestone. It is unfortunate that the rail and air transport strikes have already affected Messe Frankfurt’s third leading international event since the beginning of the year.”

Buildings of tomorrow and inspiring lighting solutions

Key topics are the electrification and digitalisation of homes and buildings in order to reduce emissions and reuse raw materials. At Light + Building, the industry presented the digital and electrotechnical infrastructure for this and, on this basis, showcased solutions for dynamic power control, energy storage systems and applications for connected security. One growing area is the range of e-mobility and charging infrastructure as well as innovations and products for decentralised energy supply systems and components.

Light plays an important role in the architecture of tomorrow. At Light + Building 2024, 65 per cent of exhibitors belonged to this sector. They presented high-quality lighting solutions for indoor and outdoor areas as well as dynamic room concepts. Modern LED installations ensure contemporary efficiency and either blend harmoniously into the architecture or emphasise the design elements. Lighting is to provide maximum visual comfort in all living and working environments. Thanks to the materials used, Acoustic Lighting combines a pleasant lighting atmosphere with sound-absorbing functions. Sustainability plays an essential role in both the materials used and the manufacturing processes. Many manufacturers design luminaires in a way that the raw materials used can be recycled at the end of their useful life.

Light + Building 2024 in figures

The high-quality, extensive and international portfolio of lighting and building-services technology impressed the visitors. 95 per cent of them were extremely satisfied with what was on display and stated that they had achieved 93 per cent of their trade fair attendance targets. The most came to the innovation meeting point from Germany, China, Italy, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Austria, the UK, Spain and Poland. They came from a total of 146 countries – including, for example, India, the USA, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, Brazil and Singapore. The degree of internationality was thus 51 per cent. The level of internationality among the 2,169 exhibitors was also high at 76 per cent.

Meeting place for the social media community

The social media community also found its home at Light + Building. On 3 and 4 March, the leading content creators in the lighting and building-services technology sector gathered for the Power Creator Days. In addition to live podcasts, expert talks and case studies, visitors had the chance to pedal for a good cause and work together towards a high energy target. A total of 1,510 minutes were cycled on the six fitness bikes. The sponsors will convert the result into a cash donation for the Leberecht Foundation, which Messe Frankfurt will double. The exact amount will be announced on social media further to Light + Building.

The next Light + Building will take place from 8 to 13 March 2026 in Frankfurt am Main.

www.light-building.messefrankfurt.com

Voices from the industry Alexander Neuhäuser, General Manager ZVEH (Central Association of the German Electrical and Information Technology Trades)

“Light + Building demonstrates how sector coupling can succeed through the necessary connectivity. The electrical trades integrate photovoltaics, storage, electromobility and heat pumps. They show how the energy industry requirements for controllable consumption devices (SteuVE) can be met and thus take account of the current transformation process. The good atmosphere at this year’s Light + Building 2024 was also noticeable at the joint stand of the electrical trades, which was very busy on all days of the event. The traditional partners’ evening was also a complete success, bringing together the partners of the electrical trades and the industry leaders. We were particularly pleased that so many young people once again took the opportunity to visit the E-House and the workshop street and gain an impression of what is feasible with smart and intelligently connected building automation.”

Wolfgang Weber, CEO, ZVEI (Electro and Digital Industry Association):

“In the context of climate goals and the economic situation of urgently creating more affordable living space in Germany, technologies are increasingly coming into focus. The exhibiting companies at Light + Building have impressively demonstrated how easily well-designed climate protection can even lead to greater economic efficiency in the operation of houses, buildings and entire neighbourhoods. This requires the right solutions, especially from the electrical and digital industry, such as heat pumps, controllable lighting, charging points and an energy management system. This is relevant – not just in Germany and Europe, but worldwide. Light + Building is the right place to present innovative, climate-friendly technologies and solutions and to engage in dialogue with trade visitors from Germany and abroad.”

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The Center will enable early pilots, talent, and capability development for the upcoming India Collaborative Engineering Center

Applied Materials has announced the commissioning of the ‘India Validation Center’ (IVC) at Applied Materials India, Bangalore by the Hon’ble Union Cabinet Minister for Railways, Communications, Electronics & Information Technology, Govt. of India, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw. The Center marks the next step in the company’s journey of enabling the semiconductor ecosystem in India.

Built with the highest safety standards, the Center enables early pilots, talent, and capability development for the upcoming India Collaborative Engineering Center including validation, process engineering, lab management, and collaboration with academia and suppliers. It adds new capabilities to enable end-to-end design, characterization, and qualification of semiconductor equipment. In this lab, Applied Materials demonstrated the capability to process 300-mm wafers in IVC; a first for private industry in India.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s semiconductor ecosystem has achieved significant growth over the past few years,” said Hon’ble Union Cabinet Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw. He added “The envisaged semiconductor ecosystem is going to play a huge part in making India a developed nation. The India Validation Center is a testament to the dedication and effectiveness of our approach to build India’s resiliency in chip manufacturing and Applied Materials has been a trusted partner in enabling the Indian Semiconductor dream. Almost every consumer tech product that runs on a chip today has Applied Materials engineering imprinted in them. This Center will further help develop manufacturing capabilities in the sector and exemplify the trust that global companies have placed in India.”

“We believe this is India’s time to shine, and Applied Materials’ India Validation Center is one of the many milestones in our innovation journey,” said Dr. Prabu Raja, President of the Semiconductor Products Group at Applied Materials. He added, “We will continue to develop our capabilities in India to support customers and work with supply chain partners to strengthen the local ecosystem and help India’s semiconductor industry succeed.”

“It is an exciting time to be part of the semiconductor value chain in India, and we are committed to developing the country’s semiconductor ecosystem,” said Satheesh Kuppurao, Vice President of Business Development and Country President of Applied Materials India. “The commissioning of our India Validation Center will enable us to coach, train, and demonstrate higher-level applications development work that is needed to support the growing semiconductor ecosystem in India.”

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Author: Bipin Pande, Technical Marketing Manager, STMicroelectronics Pvt Ltd

STMicroelectronics’ L99LDLH32 linear current regulator delivers a convenient, integrated solution for dynamic automotive lighting controlled using CAN-FD Light protocol. Ideal for use with OLED lamps that provide bright, homogeneous, and high-contrast lighting from a small surface area, the new driver lets designers produce complex light patterns and effects that enhance safety and styling.

Monolithically integrated using ST’s BCD9sL process, the L99LDLH32 is AEC-Q100 qualified. It is available as 7mm x 7mm QFN48 package with wettable flanks and an exposed thermal pad to aid dissipation. With 32 regulated current sources, independently programmable from 1mA to 15mA, the L99LDLH32 can drive individual pixels in external and interior lighting applications. Global dimming is also provided, with 8-bit resolution. While powered at the vehicle battery voltage, the driver produces outputs of up to 35V to cover a wide light emitter forward-voltage spread.

The integrated CAN FD Light protocol handler and transceiver simplify connection to the vehicle’s communication infrastructure and controlling domain ECU (electronic control unit). Based on proven industry standards, CAN FD Light’s synchronized commander/responder communication, conceived for controlling simple devices like lights and sensors, saves costly external components such as timing crystals. On the other hand, the data bandwidth of 1Mbit/s enables designers to create complex animated light patterns and permits smoothly modulated transitions and dimming.

In addition, on-chip non-volatile memory allows programming of parameters such as current level and PWM dimming for stand-alone operation, to provide a failsafe mode to cover malfunctioning of the communication bus or controller. Targeting roles including safety-critical lighting such as taillights, stoplights, and turn indicators, the L99LDLH32 provides features for a high level of functional safety. These include a fault-status pin, voltage and temperature monitors, a programmable timeout watchdog, and short-circuit and open-load detection. In addition, frequency dithering optimizes and minimizes electromagnetic emissions.

L99LDLH32 Eval board provides an easy way to connect L99LDLH32 into existing systems.

Device and Eval boards and ready to order. Please contact local ST sales office for pricing options and sample requests.

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Novus Hi-Tech Robotic Systemz is a prominent name in the field of Robotics and Automation. Their landmark achievements in providing advanced automation and smart mobility solutions are testimony to the company’s competitive technology-oriented goals. The company empowers many substantial industries like automotive, consumer electronics, cell & battery, oil & gas, etc. Also, Novus’ impressive clientele includes brands like Maruti Suzuki, ITC Ltd., Havells, and Honda, among various others.

Team Novus is well-equipped and technically sustained to handle many aspects of business including factory and warehouse operations, road logistics operations, & smart mobility. With over 100+ patents in its name, and over 1000+ mobile robot solutions deployed, the company is bringing its A game in the segment.

Mr Anuj Kapuria, Founder, CEO, and CTO at Novus Hi-Tech Robotic Systemz

Rashi Bajpai, Sub-Editor at ELE Times interacted with Mr Anuj Kapuria, Founder, CEO, and CTO at Novus Hi-Tech Robotic Systemz on the premise of Novus’ core competencies and R&D goals.

This is an excerpt from the conversation.

 

 

 

 

ELE Times: What are the key products and solutions you have in the Smart mobility segment?

Mr. Kapuria: In the Smart mobility segment, Novus offers a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to address the pressing challenges facing the transportation industry, particularly in the realm of road safety. Our flagship products include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and video telematics solutions. Leveraging state-of-the-art edge AI technology, our ADAS products are tailored to the unique demands of road networks, especially in regions with high rates of accidents like India. Through real-time driver warnings and cloud-based insights, our video telematics solution contributes significantly to reducing accidents, decreasing instances of over-speeding, and enhancing fuel efficiency, ultimately fostering a safer and more efficient transportation ecosystem.

ELE Times: Throw some light on your latest R&D on ADAS and also provide us with an overview of the solutions in this domain.

Mr Kapuria: Novus is committed to continuous research and development in the field of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to tackle the pervasive issue of road safety. Our solutions are meticulously crafted to address specific challenges prevalent on Indian roads, leveraging extensive data analysis and innovative AI algorithms. With over 100 patents filed and a unique software-first approach to ADAS, Novus introduces ground-breaking technologies aimed at mitigating road fatalities and injuries. Our video telematics solution, powered by edge AI, not only provides real-time insights but also offers actionable intelligence for fleet operators, contributing to a safer and more efficient transportation infrastructure. We o­ffer a complete connected vehicle solution, covering L0 to L5 levels of autonomy.

ELE Times: Tell us about the NovusFlow and Novus Analytics platforms, and how they enhance the user experience of using your products.

Mr Kapuria: NovusFlow is a fog-based software suite for transforming physical operations. It stands as a testament to our commitment to innovation in optimizing factory, warehouse, and logistics operations. It serves as a connected software and hardware technology platform, integrating cutting-edge technologies to streamline processes and maximize efficiency. Employing a fog architecture with edge computing capabilities, NovusFlow ensures reliability, fault tolerance, and safety in operations. Complemented by the Novus Analytics platform, Novus Analytics is a suite of web-based application which helps to monitor the entire Novus family self-driving vehicle AMR, ABOPT & AGV in real-time. With the use of machine learning and Analytics tools,  logs data consolidates and presents data to the user in such a way that customers can improve processes and increase productivity, which delivers actionable insights to optimize processes further, these platforms collectively enhance user experience by simplifying operations, maximizing throughput, and minimizing costs.

ELE Times: From a manufacturing point of view, what are the key automation products/solutions Novus provides?

Mr Kapuria: Novus offers an array of automation products and solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern manufacturing facilities. At the forefront of our offerings are the innovative Software Defined Mobile Robots, which represent a paradigm shift in assembly line automation. These mobile robots, configurable through software, offer unparalleled flexibility and modularity, thereby reducing line stoppages and enhancing productivity. Our NovusFlow platform orchestrates the behaviour of these mobile robots, optimizing task assignment, traffic management, and process sequences to maximize efficiency. With successful deployments across a diverse range of industries, Novus is driving transformative change in manufacturing processes, delivering substantial cost savings and productivity gains.

ELE Times: How can fleet operators benefit from your Video Telematics solution?

Mr Kapuria: Fleet operators stand to gain immensely from Novus’ video telematics solution, which represents a paradigm shift in fleet management and optimization. By harnessing the power of edge AI technology, our solution provides real-time driver warnings and cloud-based insights, thereby enhancing fleet efficiency and safety. The impact of our solution is profound, with impressive outcomes including a 90% reduction in accidents, a 60% decrease in overspeeding instances, and up to a 5% increase in fuel efficiency. Novus’ video telematics solution not only optimizes fleet operations but also reduces operational costs and improves overall performance, making it an indispensable asset for fleet operators striving for excellence.

The post Novus Hi-Tech Packs a Punch with its Cutting-edge Robots & Automation Solutions appeared first on ELE Times.

With the latest model of the R&S FSPN phase noise analyzer and VCO tester, Rohde & Schwarz extends the frequency range for measurements from the previous maximum of 26.5 GHz up to 50 GHz.

By rigorously implementing functions strictly for phase noise analysis and voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) measurements, Rohde & Schwarz offers an excellent price-to-performance ratio with all R&S FSPN models. The R&S FSPN provides both high speed measurements and also accuracy for characterizing sources such as synthesizers, VCOs, OCXOs and DROs. Since a trade-off between increasing speed of test and higher accuracy is inevitable, users can choose the setting best suiting their application. This makes the R&S FSPN an ideal solution not only for production test, but also for many oscillator development requirements.

The new R&S FSPN50 covers the frequency range from 1 MHz to 50 GHz and complements the existing 8 and 26.5 GHz models. For engineers both developing and producing high quality oscillators, the R&S FSPN50 supports applications in the Ka band from 26.5 to 40 GHz, and in the Q band (36 to 46 GHz) and in the lower V band up to 50 GHz. Typical applications at these frequencies include commercial point-to-point wireless and microwave communication systems, satellite communications including high throughput satellite services, military satellite and communication systems operating up to 50 GHz, close-range targeting radars, and practically the entire 5G FR2 frequency range from 21.84 GHz to 50.20 GHz.

The excellent phase noise sensitivity of the R&S FSPN is based on two low noise internal local oscillators enabling real-time cross correlation. The user can increase the number of correlations for higher accuracy or reduce them for higher speed. The current cross-correlation sensitivity gain is shown in real-time together with the current result trace. Phase noise and amplitude noise are measured separately and simultaneously, providing both an excellent analysis of phase noise performance, and a direct route for identifying the cause of any problems, without any compromise in measurement speed. Accurate VCO measurements are enabled by three low-noise DC sources. OCXO and DRO technologies as well as VCO can all be measured. For easy remote control and production automation, sequences of SCPI commands can be recorded automatically.

The new R&S FSPN50 phase noise analyzer and VCO tester up to 50 GHz is now available from Rohde & Schwarz. For further information, go to: https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/product/FSPN

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Servotech Power Systems Ltd., a driving force in India’s electric vehicle (EV) charging sector, announced a strategic initiative to bolster the nation’s self-sufficiency in critical EV charger components. To achieve this goal, Servotech has secured a technical collaboration with a leading international company.

Servotech is constructing a cutting-edge manufacturing facility focused on the production of Power Modules, Control Circuits, and PLCs – essential elements at the core of EV chargers. This move marks a decisive shift away from reliance on imports and positions India as a key player in the global EV charger supply chain.

The new plant will have an initial annual production capacity of 24,000 power modules and will ramp up its production capacity to 2.4 lakh power modules annually in order to cater with the rapidly growing Indian EV market which will require around 6 lakh units annually. This scalable approach demonstrates Servotech’s ambition to capture a significant share of the expanding EV charging sector.

Commenting on this announcement Arun Handa, Chief Technical Officer, Servotech Power Systems Ltd. said “Our goal is to make Servotech a preferred supplier of EV Chargers as well as preferred OEM supplier of Power Modules for Indian EV Charger manufacturers. By establishing a robust domestic supply chain, we contribute to the overall growth of the EV ecosystem, making charging solutions more affordable and accessible to a wider public.”

Key Milestones and Benefits:
The new plant is expected to be fully operational by December 2024.
This initiative will directly contribute to:
o Reduced reliance on imported components.
o Creation of high-skilled jobs within India.
o Economic growth in the technology sector.
o Advancement of India’s EV charging capabilities.

Servotech Power Systems Ltd. stands committed to spearheading India’s transition to clean energy solutions. This strategic investment in indigenous manufacturing reinforces the company’s dedication to providing dependable, cost-effective, and readily available EV charging solutions throughout the nation.

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As a market specialist in hardware engineering, avionics design and development, telecom solutions, and services, automotive, and medical and healthcare, Alpha-Numero is a global brand operating in India, Canada, Germany, and the USA. Their top-notch deliverables in VLSI design, semiconductor testing, FPGA design, and embedded systems expertise are quality-assured. Team Alpha-Numero is well-renowned for providing high-quality services in SAP, IT software, BI & Analytics, and Mechanical Engineering & Design to a wide range of industries.

Mr. Sukanta Mitra, Co-Founder of Alpha-Numero Technology Solutions Inc.

Rashi Bajpai, Sub-Editor at ELE Times had an opportunity to interact with Mr. Sukanta Mitra, Co-Founder of Alpha-Numero Technology Solutions Inc. and the Founder of MetricsNumero – a specialized brand under the Alpha-Numero Group. The conversation highlights the organization’s core competencies and expertise in several booming technologies and industries. 

This is an excerpt from the interview. 

ELE Times: What services does Alpha-Numero provide to the Aerospace & Defence, Automotive, and Electronics Industries?

Mr Mitra: We specialise in providing comprehensive product design services for the Aerospace & Defence, Automotive, and Electronics Industries. In the domain of automotive, aerospace, and avionics, our focus lies in embedded hardware and software design. This encompasses a wide range of services, including ASIC design, chip design, FPGA design, board design, hardware design, and embedded software design. Simply put, our expertise covers the entire product design process, starting from specification development to chip or silicon creation, hardware and software design, and system-level integration. We also excel in design verification and validation, ensuring the quality and reliability of the final product.

For instance, in the avionics domain, we undertake critical design work for systems such as flight control systems and cockpit display systems in commercial aircraft. Our involvement spans from the initial chip or ASIC design to FPGA-level implementation. We collaborate not only with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like Boeing or Airbus but also with key Tier 1 companies in the aerospace sector, including Collins Aerospace, BAE Systems, and Honeywell. Moreover, our engagement extends to regulatory bodies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)– a crucial entity for certifying products for use in aircraft. This comprehensive approach underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality and certified solutions in the aerospace and automotive industries. Additionally, our commitment extends to regulatory compliance and certification processes. We engage with organisations like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a crucial U.S. government agency responsible for certifying aviation products.

Similarly in the automotive domain, our services extend across the entire product design spectrum. We focus on components such as steering control systems and brake control systems. We also specialise in embedded software and hardware design, development, and the verification and validation processes for multiple OEMs. Likewise, when it comes to consumer electronics, our collaboration extends to chip design and semiconductor solutions. We also collaborate with leading companies such as Intel and AMD in the semiconductor and VLSI domains. So, overall, Alpha-Numero’s expertise lies in end-to-end design services, ranging from initial specifications to the development of embedded hardware and software for a diverse range of products in these industries.

ELE Times: What in your view is the role of cybersecurity in the Defence and Aerospace sector?

Mr Mitra: Cybersecurity’s role in the defence and aerospace sector is immensely crucial. Globally, there is a concerning trend where hackers breach systems and demand ransom for the compromised data. A similar incident occurred a few months ago, where a prominent company collaborating with the US military and defence had its entire system hacked, which resulted in heavy financial losses. Another example of a cyberattack in the public domain is Johnson Control, where a ransomware attack compromised highly sensitive data. The attackers also demanded a substantial amount of money, potentially in the millions or billions. Such attacks have become increasingly frequent, which highlights the need for organisations, especially those involved in defence and aerospace, to have robust cybersecurity measures in place. Neglecting cybersecurity could render any system vulnerable, as demonstrated by these instances. Moreover, without proper cybersecurity measures, there’s a risk that advanced technologies, including cloud-based systems, could be exploited. Also, with advancing technology, the risk of unauthorised external control, especially in aviation, could endanger the lives of hundreds on board. This vulnerability poses a severe threat, as external entities might potentially gain control over vital systems such as aircraft, putting the lives of hundreds of people at risk. Thus, it is imperative to embrace cybersecurity to prevent such scenarios.

Considering these challenges, Alpha-Numero is actively contributing to cybersecurity in the defence and aerospace sectors. We are assembling a team comprising industry veterans, cybersecurity experts, and promising newcomers. Our team-building approach involves recruiting experienced individuals from the industry and under them, we provide our workforce with comprehensive training in cybersecurity. collaboration with technology training providers, particularly focusing on defence-related aspects in both the US and India. In this process, we collaborate with multiple companies specialising in technology training, aligning with both defence sectors in the US and non-defense industries in India.

We expect to have a fully functional team within the next two quarters. However, it’s important to note that the cybersecurity services and related activities will not be directly managed by Alpha-Numero. Instead, these responsibilities will be overseen by MetricsNumero – another entity within our organisation.

ELE Times: Brief us on your work in Asset Tracking, Smart Mining, and Smart Building, in the IoT segment, technology implications, and application areas.

Mr Mitra: Alpha-Numero has ventured into the expansive domain of IoT, specifically focusing on Asset Tracking, Smart Mining, and Smart Building solutions. Our initial foray includes executing programs in the southern part of India, particularly in mines. We are designing these smart mining solutions to track the movement and activities of labourers within the mines. The system not only monitors their movements but also captures additional parameters to ensure their safety and well-being. This program has been designed to enhance the overall operational efficiency and safety measures within the mining industry.

Asset Tracking is another area of focus for us. We are in the early stages of developing sensor-based solutions for tracking assets. This aligns with our expertise in product design services, which has traditionally been centred around the avionics and automotive industries. The foray into sensor-based IoT solutions for asset tracking represents a strategic expansion for Alpha-Numero.

However, our foray into sensor-based IoT solutions, particularly in asset tracking, is still in its early stages. The implementation of IoT in these domains requires careful consideration of technological implications and the unique requirements of each application area, and thus, we are proceeding cautiously. Alpha-Numero primarily specialises in product design services for avionics and automotive industries. The exploration of sensor-based IoT solutions for asset tracking and industries such as mining represents a gradual expansion of our capabilities within these domains. As we delve deeper into sensor-based solutions, we anticipate further advancements and broader applications in the domains of asset tracking and beyond.

ELE Times: What kind of solutions does Alpha-Numero provide in the Medical and Healthcare field?

Mr Mitra: Alpha-Numero specialises in providing solutions within the medical and healthcare field, particularly in collaboration with major US OEMs. The focus lies in establishing an R&D centre in India to work closely with these giants on various fronts. Alpha-Numero is actively involved in providing solutions in the medical and healthcare sector, particularly focusing on stringent processes. We create medical devices such as stents and catheters, adhering to the rigorous regulatory standards set by organisations like the FDA.

Secondly, we are exploring opportunities in the development of iOS and Android applications for advanced medical devices. For instance, we are actively involved in creating modern medical devices, such as contactless pacemakers. These advanced devices eliminate the need for physical attachment to the body and can be monitored remotely. The monitoring involves the use of electric signals to assess both the patient’s health and the functionality of the device. This involves the development of IOS and Android-based applications for remote monitoring of patients’ health and device functionality. Updates and upgrades to software are also part of our service offerings in this domain.

We are also in the process of establishing an R&D team that will collaborate with leading companies in the medical and healthcare sector to provide engineering and software services. Moreover, to meet the regulatory requirements of the FDA, we are identifying engineers within its team for specialised training. What’s more, we have initiated basic training and plans to progress to more advanced levels to ensure FDA compliance. However, the FDA-related aspects will be handled by our group company, MetricsNumero.

ELE Times: Help us understand your expertise in semiconductor testing, embedded systems and VLSI design.

Mr Mitra: Alpha-Numero specialises in the core competencies of semiconductor testing, embedded systems, and VLSI (Very Large-Scale Integration) design. The avionics industry has witnessed a shift from ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) design due to its high cost and potential risks. Instead, the industry has embraced FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) design. Our expertise extends not only to FPGA design but also to system-level design, verification, and validation.

We also have contributed to multiple Boeing programs since our inception, besides demonstrating a strong track record of success. Furthermore, our focus on VLSI verification, validation, and semiconductor expertise is fundamental to our core capabilities. In addition, we collaborate with larger industry players that lack similar expertise in VLSI, Verilog, and the semiconductor domain. Through such collaborative efforts, we aim to work with these companies, and leverage their proficiency to provide our services to their customers with specific needs in the semiconductor domain. This collaborative approach serves as a mutually beneficial arrangement, besides creating a win-win situation for all parties involved.

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