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

The post Rohde & Schwarz introduces dedicated phase noise analysis and VCO measurements up to 50 GHz with the R&S FSPN50 appeared first on ELE Times.

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.

The post Servotech Power Systems Advances India’s EV Charging Industry with In-house Components Manufacturing appeared first on ELE Times.

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.

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.

The post Alpha-Numero’s Global Reach in Delivering End-to-End Enterprise Solutions appeared first on ELE Times.

Analog Devices, Inc. and the BMW Group has announced an early adoption of E²B, ADI’s 10BASE-T1S Ethernet to the Edge bus technology within the automotive industry. Automotive Ethernet connectivity is a key enabler of new, zonal architectures in automotive design and supports automotive megatrends such as software-defined vehicles. The BMW Group will be a leading original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to implement the technology, leveraging ADI’s E²B for their ambient lighting system design in the vehicles of the BMW Group in the future.  

Since 2018, ADI has been working closely with the BMW Group on a new concept to simplify bringing Ethernet to the Edge. At the same time, the IEEE802.3cg Group was defining a new 10Mbps Ethernet standard called 10BASE-T1S, with ADI and the BMW Group among other companies both actively involved. Using ADI’s 10BASE-T1S E²B technology to remove microcontrollers and move software from edge nodes to central processing units, the BMW Group enables an all-hardware edge node while reducing software development and qualification tasks.  

“While working alongside ADI on 10BASE-T1S E²B, we joined efforts on a number of key considerations, from simplifying implementation, to cost analysis and design support. The relationship with ADI has enabled us to move more quickly to market with a solution of a zonal architecture for software-defined vehicles,” the BMW Group stated. 

“We continue to deeply engage with the BMW Group to understand their next-generation needs and bring further optimized products to aid next-generation architectures, as well as bring continued cooperation on standardization,” said Yasmine King, Vice President, Automotive Cabin Experience at ADI. “10BASE-T1S E²B is a great new addition to our automotive connectivity and networking portfolio, innovated to drive success across different use cases, with the flexibility and scalability to support zonal, domain and hybrid architectures.”  

In-cabin experience continues to be a critical focus for automakers, with driver and passenger expectations becoming more refined. This is especially true of the ambient lighting within the vehicle.  

However, many of today’s lighting solutions are complex to implement, use legacy technologies, and are difficult to scale and update as the number of supported LEDs increases. By leveraging the 10BASE-T1S with E²B technology, OEMs can provide a rich customer experience while also synchronizing lighting with other applications in the vehicle. Fully enabling a software-defined lighting system provides improved flexibility, ease of upgrade, and ease of use. 

“This approach to edge connectivity is so sought-after that the automotive industry inside the Open Alliance (opensig.org) is now aiming to standardize a similar solution. ADI, along with the BMW Group and other companies, are actively working with the industry to create an Open Standard implementation,” said Yasmine King.  

The post ADI and the BMW Group Join Forces to Provide Industry-Leading 10Mb Ethernet for Automotive, Enabling Software-Defined Vehicles appeared first on ELE Times.

The Government of India has been focused on developing the country’s semiconductor ecosystem and catalysing India’s rapidly expanding electronics manufacturing industry. These efforts will enable innovation and India’s emergence as a global hub for electronics manufacturing and design. The Inventors Challenge contest is an effort towards strengthening the Government of India’s mission to create a talent pool in the semiconductor domain.

Since 2022, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), the Ministry of Education in India, Arm Education and STMicroelectronics have been organizing an annual contest in support of the government’s goal to expand and enrich India’s rapidly growing electronics manufacturing and innovation ecosystem.

In this year’s contest, ‘The Inventors Challenge 2024,’ we continue with the mission to grow the semiconductor talent pool and help nurture innovation across faculty and students.

The competition is open to all faculty and students at engineering Institutes pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate courses in India. This is a team event. Each team should have one faculty and up to four students. The idea should be based on Sustainability, Mobility and Artificial Intelligence

The Inventors Challenge has reiterated our belief on the importance of the industry-academia knowledge sharing. The initiative was well received and the feedback from participants has further strengthened our belief to continue such interactions, leading to the launch “The Inventors Challenge -2024” Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE

More details can be found on https://community.arm.com/the-inventors-challenge-2024/

Manoj Kumar, Director of Innovation at STMicroelectronics India said: “ST aims to inspire developers to become skilled by integrating agile learning and providing inclusive, hands-on mentoring. The Inventors Challenge builds and reinforces our dedication to nurture and empower the next generation with the entrepreneurial spirit that’s propelling our nation forward. With the help of AICTE and Arm, we’re proud to support the engineering community and look forward to another year of hosting one of the industry’s most sought-after training competitions.”

“At Arm we believe in the power of technology to build a better world for everyone. Higher a education institutions have a pivotal role to play in enabling technology innovation in the semiconductor ecosystem, and we work closely with academic, industry and government partners to drive technological advancements that will have a positive impact. Following the success of The Inventors Challenge in the past years, we look forward to seeing how this year’s entries will help to progress toward the United Nations Global Goals.” Guru Ganesan, President, Arm India.

The post All India Council for Technical Education(AICTE) joins hands with Arm Education and STMicroelectronics to organise the 3rd edition of the contest “The Inventors Challenge -2024” appeared first on ELE Times.

At the EMV show 2024 in Cologne, Rohde & Schwarz showcases a comprehensive range of EMC test and measurement solutions – ranging from standalone instruments and software to application-specific systems. The company dedicates a large part of the booth to demonstrations that show EMI compliance testing, EMC test automation, EMS immunity test, EMI debugging and EMF. The Rohde & Schwarz solutions are on display from March 12 to 14, 2024 at the Cologne Exhibition Center, hall 11.1, booth 106.

Rohde & Schwarz provides outstanding EMC and field strength testing solutions, ranging from measurement devices to comprehensive testing systems. The company’s testing solutions fulfil all relevant commercial, medical, automotive, military, and aerospace regulations, as well as ETSI and FCC standards for radiated spurious emissions and audio interference measurements.

For both device developers and test houses the R&S EPL1000 EMI test receiver offers fast, accurate and full CISPR 16-1-1 compliant measurements up to 30 MHz at the best price in its class. In addition, The R&S EPL1000 now also features 4 channel click rate measurements in line with the latest CISPR 14-1:2020 version, mandatory for household appliances and electric power tools.

EMI compliance testing ensures devices operate without causing electromagnetic interference. The key component of an EMI system is the test receiver. The R&S ESW EMI test receiver can expand its FFT bandwidth to 970 MHz, enabling it to measure the CISPR frequency of Bands C and D in a single operation. The wide bandwidth ensures sporadic interference is intercepted and enables the highest reliability and repeatability in commercial and MIL-STD testing. In addition, the measurement speed of the R&S ESW FFT bandwidth extension enables new possibilities in EMI compliance testing, emission analysis and debugging.

EMC test automation is essential for achieving reliable and repeatable measurement results. The R&S ELEKTRA test software controls the entire EMC system, automating measurements of the equipment under test (EUT) for emissions (EMI) and immunity (EMS). ELEKTRA now supports measurements in reverberation chambers (RVC) and will be demonstrated at the R&S booth. The R&S AdVISE visual inspection software will also be showcased at the show. This software automates the visual monitoring of an EUT during a test sequence, eliminating human error, ensuring reproducible results, and simplifying test documentation.

Another highlight will be on advancements in EMS immunity testing, with a particular focus on broadband amplifiers and bulk current injection (BCI) systems. The R&S BBA300 family is a new generation of solid-state broadband amplifiers that offer improved robustness and availability in the frequency range from 380 MHz to 6 GHz. Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore a compact rack solution for BCI. This comprehensive solution includes a signal generator, broadband amplifier, power sensor, and software, providing a streamlined approach to EMS immunity testing.

Insightful demonstrations on EMI debugging will be shown by the Rohde & Schwarz oscilloscopes. One such demonstration will involve the oscilloscope R&S RTO6, which provides in-depth information on conducted emissions during device debugging. Also on display will be the new R&S MXO series of oscilloscopes, available in both 4 and 8-channel options. With the expended FFT processing power and advanced triggering options, the R&S MXO oscilloscopes are designed to expedite the EMI debugging process as well as DUT observation for EMS testing.

For EMF testing, Rohde & Schwarz showcases the R&S FPH handheld spectrum analyzer in combination with the R&S TS- EMF isotropic antenna up to 8 GHz: A solution to measure electromagnetic fields easily, covering the new radio services such as WiFi 6E and the complete 5G FR1 Frequency band up to 7.125 GHz. Higher frequencies up to 44 GHz can be measured with a handheld directional antenna such as the R&S HE800-PA. The EMF measurement option for the R&S FPH provides automated testing and a customizable report.

The post Rohde & Schwarz at EMV 2024: Outstanding T&M solutions from the market leader in EMC appeared first on ELE Times.

On-the-fly marking at high speeds is only one of the comprehensive features of the LP-RH series

The new LP-RH CO2 laser marking systems are specially designed for industries with particularly high demands on speed and functionality and are available with 10W, 20W, and 30W output.

They offer a remarkable improvement in marking and processing quality. Thanks to the ultra-fast galvanometer scanner, they can mark moving objects on the fly up to a conveyor speed of 240m/min.

With their small laser beam diameter, some models are particularly suitable for marking small components with extremely fine markings. Due to their shorter wavelength of 9.3μm, some models are ideal for marking transparent plastics such as PET or PC. The CO2 laser also makes it possible to mark organic materials such as paper and wood.

A seamless workflow is essential 

The start-up time has been significantly reduced from 90 to 15 seconds to increase work efficiency and avoid unwanted production interruptions.

Thanks to the newly integrated motor, engraving achieves impressive homogeneity, speed, and precision compared to the previous series. The marking field of this series is up to 160×160 mm, and a new scanning method for Data Matrix Codes reduces cycle times by up to 40% without any loss in quality.

Improved focus for precise alignment

With our latest innovation, fine adjustment of the focusing setting is child’s play. The working distance can be easily adjusted from -/+ 3 mm without moving the laser head. This function guarantees precise alignment and makes fine adjustment much easier, making work processes more efficient.

The updated PC software Laser Marker NAVI smart presents a user-friendly interface that simplifies maintenance history management. The NAVI smart software also informs you immediately when maintenance is required so that your system always remains in optimum condition.

The post Improved speed and precision: Panasonic Industry presents the new Laser marking system LP-RH appeared first on ELE Times.

Industrial automation, energy monitoring and test and measurement sectors all to benefit from extreme accuracy

element14 has announced that it has added the full range of precision signal chains from Analog Devices, inc. (ADI), to help users create the optimum end-solution for multiple applications. From sensors to bits, customers can find and tailor solutions that are optimised for demanding applications. The signal chains are available to order directly from the element14 website.

Jose Lok, Product Category Director, Semiconductors from, element14, said, “ element14 is positioned to enable developers to integrate ADI technology into their designs, which greatly accelerates time to market. Development engineers can use ADI’s high-precision signal chains to optimise their solutions for demanding electrification, automotive, digital health, instrumentation, smart industry, energy and sustainability applications.”

Precision signal chains now available from element14 include:

1. Precision Current Sensing: These signal chains can be used to tackle challenging current measurement tasks in applications.
2. Precision High Voltage: ADI’s precision high voltage signal chains combine precision high voltage amplifiers, high voltage digital-to-analogue converters (DACs), difference amplifiers and matched resistor networks.
3. Isolated Gate Drive and Sense: These sense signal chains combine robust switch control and scalable multichannel monitoring into a flexible solution covering a range of AC/DC and DC/AC applications.
4. Precision Low Power: ADI’s precision low power signal chains are designed and optimised for small-size battery-powered or power-sensitive applications.
5. Precision Narrow Bandwidth: ADI offers precision narrow bandwidth signal chains that focus on optimising the performance of systems where the signals of interest are in the range of DC to approximately 10 kHz.
6. Precision Medium Bandwidth: Precision medium bandwidth signal chains cover a large range of applications that demand accuracy across signal bandwidths from DC to 500 kHz, with sampling rates up to 4 MSPS.
7. Precision Wide Bandwidth: The precision wide bandwidth signal chains bring the insight and flexibility needed to optimise application-specific parameters for measurement and drive solutions.

Sabine Colen, Director, Global e-commerce Channel from Analog Devices adds, “The benefits from ADI’s precision technology signal chains stem from the fact that these signal chains come complete with customisable solutions, purpose-developed knowledge bases that have been developed from more than 50 years of experience and expertise.”

The post element14 emphasises precision with Analog Devices signal chains appeared first on ELE Times.

In the highly competitive global semiconductor market, manufacturers are constantly striving for shorter time-to-market. At the same time, the demand for fluid and high-resolution graphical displays is increasing. To address these market demands, Infineon Technologies AG announces its strategic collaboration with Qt Group, a global software company providing cross-platform solutions for the entire software development lifecycle. This collaboration brings Qt’s lightweight, high-performance graphics framework to Infineon’s graphics-enabled TRAVEO T2G cluster microcontrollers and represents a paradigm shift in graphical user interface (GUI) development.

Microcontrollers nowadays offer extensive graphical capabilities that enable compact designs, cost-efficiency, and lower power consumption. With features such as instant boot-up, small footprint and efficient real-time processing, they are widely used in various sectors, including automotive instrument clusters, two-wheelers, construction machinery, industrial and medical applications. Infineon’s TRAVEO T2G MCUs are designed to meet the requirements of these applications, especially the TRAVEO T2G cluster family. This device family provides graphical user interfaces with high refresh rates and up to full HD resolution. By integrating the Qt graphics solution directly into these MCUs, Infineon further optimizes these devices and enables intelligent rendering technology with benefits such as:

• Up to 5x more efficient memory usage compared to the market average.
• Up to 2x faster boot time compared to average boot times in the market.
• Up to 50 percent shorter time to market, from design to production.

“Whether in the automotive industry, healthcare or industrial automation, responsive user interfaces with high-quality graphics are essential,” said Toni Paila, Director, Qt for MCUs at Qt Group. “However, the MCUs used for these applications typically lack integrated advanced design and development tools especially for modern user interfaces. We are therefore proud to support Infineon in bridging this gap and enabling device manufacturers to deliver outstanding user interfaces with low memory footprints on their MCUs. This will allow designers to create GUIs that were previously considered impossible due to resource constraints.”

“Qt’s efficient design and development workflow, coupled with over 30 years of production experience in various industries, has accelerated our UI application development,” said Ralf Ködel, Vice President Microcontrollers at Infineon. “By extending this efficiency to our microcontrollers, our customers can significantly shorten the time to market – from product design to production.”

A live demonstration of Qt for MCUs on Infineon`s TRAVEO T2G will be showcased at Qt`s booth at Embedded World 2024 in Nuremberg from April 9 to 11 in Hall 4, Stand 4-258.

The TRAVEO T2G cluster microcontroller products featuring Qt’s advanced graphical libraries are now available. Further information is available at www.infineon.com/traveocluster.

The post Infineon enhances the Traveo T2G MCU family with Qt Group graphics solution to enable intelligent rendering technologies appeared first on ELE Times.

Union Minister for Steel and Aviation, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, today virtually flagged off India’s first Green Hydrogen Plant in the Stainless Steel sector located at Jindal Stainless Ltd., Hisar, Haryana.

This mega project- a collaboration between Jindal Stainless Ltd. and Hygenco, is set to be the world’s first off-grid Green Hydrogen plant for the stainless-steel industry and the world’s first Green Hydrogen plant with rooftop and floating solar. Furthermore, the plant is expected to reduce approx. 2700 metric tonnes of carbon emissions annually, and a total of 54,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions over the next 20 years.

In his address, Jindal said “We cannot think of decarbonisation without reducing the emissions accompanying such critical manufacturing processes. And this is where this path-breaking and pioneering green hydrogen plant comes in.”

This project is poised to revolutionise green growth and green jobs that will further drive the country’s journey towards the target of net zero carbon emission by 2070. “India’s rich history of environmentalism, deeply embedded in its traditions and practices, is now being revitalized through modern strategies”, Scindia expressed.

The post Scindia Inaugurates India’s 1st Green Hydrogen Plant in Stainless Steel Sector appeared first on ELE Times.

Helps simplify operation and save energy in industrial power supplies, portable device chargers, and AC/DC adapters

STMicroelectronics’ SRK1004 synchronous-rectifier controller eases the design and enhances the efficiency of converters built with silicon or GaN transistors, including industrial power supplies, portable device chargers, and AC/DC adapters.

Capable of withstanding up to 190V at its sense input, the SRK1004 can be connected in a high-side or low-side configuration. Four variants let users avoid complex calculations by optimizing their design through device selection alone, selecting gate-drive voltage between 5.5V or 9V, with logic-level MOSFETs, standard MOSFETs, or GaN transistors. Suitable for noncomplementary active clamp, resonant, and quasi-resonant (QR) flyback topologies, the SRK1004 introduces a next-generation turn-off algorithm that simplifies operation and saves energy.

The features of this controller enable converters to provide a high output power rating within compact dimensions. The operating frequency can be up to 500kHz, allowing the use of small magnetic components as well as maximizing the benefits of wide-bandgap technology when using GaN transistors. The controller is fabricated in ST’s silicon-on-insulator (SOI) process, which ensures robust performance while permitting a tiny 2mm x 2mm DFN-6L package.

By operating with a supply voltage from 4V to 36V, the SRK1004 can be powered from a variety of standard industrial bus voltages. The wide input-voltage range also provides flexibility to adjust the step-down ratio for optimum efficiency. Also, with fast-acting short-circuit detection built-in, the controller helps build rugged and reliable equipment.

Of the four variants introduced, the SRK1004A and SRK1004B are configured for 5.5V gate-drive voltage and can be used with logic-level MOSFETs or GaN transistors. The SRK1004C and SRK1004D for 9V gate-drive voltage are suited to MOSFETs designed for standard gate-drive signals.

All variants of the SRK1004x synchronous rectification controllers are in production now and available from $0.45 for orders of 1000 units. The evaluation boards, EVLSRK1004A, EVLSRK1004B, EVLSRK1004C, and EVLSRK1004D, are also available to accelerate evaluation and design start with each type, at the budgetary price of $50.00.

The post STMicroelectronics reveals flexible synchronous rectifier for efficient silicon or GaN converters appeared first on ELE Times.

Ultra-fast supercapacitors now available from Farnell feature cutting-edge, dual-layer technology

element14 is now stocking the range of high-power electric double layer capacitor (EDLC) radial supercapacitors from Abracon, a supplier of leading-edge, innovative electronic components including frequency control, timing, power, magnetics, RF and antenna solutions.

element14 Product Segment Leader for Abracon, Euan Gilligan, said, “We are delighted to stock this remarkable line of EDLC radial supercapacitors, which are specifically engineered to meet the accelerating demand for fast-charging, high-capacity energy storage solutions. They are key components for a wide range of industries, including automotive, renewable energy, industrial automation, consumer electronics and many more.”

The EDLC supercapacitors are efficient and compact, providing exceptional energy density. Available in 2.7-volt and 3.0-volt supercapacitors are top performers for applications that require rapid power bursts due to their ultra-fast charge and dissipation capabilities.

Moreover, these supercapacitors are designed for longevity, with an impressive lifecycle that minimises maintenance costs and enhances system durability. This ability eliminates the operational safety concerns often seen in lithium batteries.

They are also able to operate across a wide temperature range, making them suitable for deployment in challenging environmental conditions. For example, they can operate down to -40°C, which traditional batteries cannot.

Gilligan added, “These supercapacitors are ideal for uninterrupted and backup power supplies, micro energy storage, data transmission and various energy start-up designs. They are also especially useful for wireless networks, energy harvesting, cold-crack engines, microgrids and more.”

Abracon provides an online selection tool that enables developers to select the desired supercapacitor performance by allowing them to filter by type, current, tolerance and more.

The post element14 introduces Abracon’s powerful new high-performance EDLC radial supercapacitors appeared first on ELE Times.

Servotech Power Systems Ltd., a leading manufacturer of EV chargers in India, has bagged an order of 1400 DC fast EV chargers from Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and other EV charger OEMs. The total order is valued at 111 crores and involves two charger variants of 60 kW and 120 kW. The order secured by IOCL involves Servotech manufacturing, supplying and installing DC EV chargers nationwide, prioritizing deployment at Indian Oil petrol pumps and other said locations. Additionally, Servotech will also manufacture and supply the rest of the chargers to EV charger OEMs. This move is seen as an important step as it will promote decarbonized mobility and cater to the evolving needs of the EV charging infrastructure.

• Recently, Servotech received 1500 DC Fast EV charger orders from HPCL and OEMs.
• The company also received an 1800 DC EV chargers order from BPCL.
• The total number of EV charger orders from oil marketing companies and EV charger OEMs stands at 4700 units.
• The total value of the combined orders stands at 333 crores.

Servotech is committed to installing all these chargers by the end of the FY 2024-25. Servotech will deploy 5% of the 4700 units of DC EV chargers by March 31st, 2024. Additionally, Servotech will also complete the deployment of 2649 AC EV chargers orders received by BPCL by the same deadline i.e. 31st March 2024.

Sarika Bhatia, Director of Servotech Power Systems Ltd., said on this commendable order wins: “We are honored to contribute to India’s E-Mobility revolution alongside major oil marketing companies like IOCL, HPCL, and BPCL. Together, we are committed to accelerating the transition to a sustainable future. It’s a source of pride that these industry leaders have chosen us based on our manufacturing capabilities and quality conscious EV chargers. As a premier EV charger manufacturer, we aim to transform India into a nation where EVs are not just a vision but a reality. With shared vision and unwavering dedication, we believe in making this dream come true. Leveraging the network of oil marketing companies and installing EV chargers at their petrol pumps, we’re building a robust infrastructure for EVs, making them accessible to all, everywhere”.

“Our top-notch DC fast EV chargers are poised to create e-mobility hubs, streamlining transactions, enhancing accessibility, simplifying user experience, and aiding navigation for EV drivers. With our proactive assistance, we’re driving a seamless shift toward a greener, more sustainable transportation landscape” said Sarika Bhatia.

The post Servotech Secures another Order for 1400 DC Fast EV Chargers worth Rs. 111 Crore from IOCL and Other OEMs appeared first on ELE Times.

Author: Amit Sethi, Technical Marketing Manager, STMicroelectronics Pvt Ltd

NFC, a short-range wireless communication technology, enables data exchange between devices when they are brought into proximity. In medical applications, NFC can play a pivotal role in facilitating communication between medical devices, improving patient identification, and ensuring secure data transfer.

Patient Identification and Authentication: One of the critical aspects of healthcare is accurate and secure patient identification. NFC technology provides a robust solution by enabling healthcare providers to create electronic patient records linked to NFC tags or cards. These tags can store essential patient information such as medical history, allergies, and current medications. When a patient arrives, medical staff can quickly access this information by scanning the NFC tag with a compatible device, ensuring that the right patient receives the right care. This not only enhances patient safety but also streamlines the registration process, reducing administrative overhead.

Medication Management: NFC technology offers innovative solutions to improve medication management within healthcare facilities. Smart medication packaging equipped with NFC tags can be used to track medication usage, monitor adherence, and provide real-time data on a patient’s medication history. Patients can use NFC-enabled devices to access information about their prescribed medications, including dosage instructions and potential side effects. This technology helps in preventing medication errors and enhances overall patient education regarding their treatment plans.

Medical Device Connectivity: In a hospital setting, various medical devices are used to monitor patients and gather vital health data. NFC facilitates seamless connectivity between these devices, allowing for efficient data sharing and integration. For example, an NFC-enabled wearable device worn by a patient can transmit real-time health data to a monitoring station, enabling healthcare professionals to make timely decisions. This connectivity also extends to medical equipment calibration and updates. NFC can be employed to wirelessly update the software or firmware of medical devices, ensuring that they are always operating with the latest features and security patches.

Access Control and Security: Security is paramount in healthcare and NFC technology
contributes significantly to access control and data security. NFC cards or badges can serve as secure identification credentials for healthcare staff, limiting access to sensitive areas and patient records. This helps in preventing unauthorized access, safeguarding patient privacy, and maintaining the integrity of healthcare data. Moreover, NFC technology can be integrated into mobile devices, allowing healthcare professionals to securely access patient information through encrypted connections. This ensures that patient data remains confidential and protected against unauthorized access.

Contactless Payments in Healthcare: The use of contactless payments has become
commonplace in various industries, and healthcare is no exception. NFC technology facilitates secure and convenient contactless payment solutions within healthcare facilities. Patients can make payments for services or copayments by simply tapping their NFC-enabled payment cards or mobile devices. This not only streamlines the payment process but also reduces the risk of handling physical currency or cards, contributing to a more hygienic and efficient financial transaction experience in healthcare settings.

Patient Engagement and Monitoring: NFC technology plays a vital role in patient engagement and monitoring. Wearable devices equipped with NFC can be used to track patients’ activity levels, monitor vital signs, and transmit data to healthcare providers in real time. This proactive approach to patient monitoring allows for early detection of potential health issues and timely interventions. Patients can also use NFC-enabled devices to check in for appointments, access educational materials, and receive personalized health recommendations. This empowers the patients to engage actively in their healthcare journey.

NFC technology has the potential to revolutionize medical applications, offering solutions that enhance patient care, improve efficiency, and contribute to the overall advancement of
healthcare systems. From secure patient identification to streamlined medication management and innovative patient engagement strategies, NFC provides a versatile platform for innovation in the healthcare sector. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of NFC in medical applications will likely become more widespread, driving further improvements in patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. With careful consideration of security measures and industry standards, NFC stands poised to play a transformative role in shaping the future of healthcare.

The post NFC in Healthcare appeared first on ELE Times.

Infineon Technologies has launched the new Automotive PSoC 4100S Max family. This microcontroller device family expands Infineon’s portfolio of CAPSENSE-enabled Human Machine Interface (HMI) solutions for automotive body/HVAC and steering wheel applications by delivering higher flash densities, GPIOs, CAN-FD, and HW-Security.

The Automotive PSoC 4100S Max with fifth-generation CAPSENSE technology offering 10x higher sensitivity is available in 100-TQFP (14×14 mm²), 64-TQFP (10×10 mm²) and 48-QFN (7×7 mm²) packages. It is an optimal solution for automotive HMI applications requiring low-power consumption, multiple sensing pins (50+), configurable scan times to optimize the system’s refresh rate, high-speed communication (CAN-FD, I2C), and dedicated HW-cryptography for enhanced security while offloading the main CPU. This device offers up to 84 GPIOs and 384 KB of flash memory (the largest PSoC4 flash memory in its class).

The Automotive PSoC 4100S Max is AECQ-100 qualified up to 125 °C ambient temperature and also provides support towards ASIL-B (ISO 26262-ready), which helps the integrator to achieve system level compliance for automotive application supported by Infineon’s latest ModusToolbox development platform, the devices allow developers an easy implementation for a variety of use cases.

The post PSoC Automotive 4100S Max supports fifth generation CAPSENSE technology with higher performance appeared first on ELE Times.

Samsung Semiconductor India Research (SSIR) has announced the opening of its new R&D facility in Bengaluru. The expansion marks a significant milestone in SSIR’s commitment to driving cutting-edge semiconductor research and development in India, while addressing the company’s growing needs for advanced infrastructure. This is SSIR’s second office in Bengaluru, with a capacity to accommodate close to sixteen hundred professionals. Located at Bagmane Capital Tech Park in Angkor-West, the facility spans 1,60,000 square feet across four floors.

The new campus of Samsung Semiconductor India Research (SSIR) features a modern, open-plan layout across four floors, encouraging collaboration and agility. The design includes designated hot-desking areas for workforce flexibility. There are over sixty (60) state-of-the-art meeting rooms for seamless communication, and amenities such as a fully equipped cafeteria, medical facilities, dedicated nap rooms, and recreational areas for rejuvenation for all employees. Additionally, transport shuttle services are also available which will further enhance convenience, ensuring a holistic work experience for SSIR employees.

“It is an exciting moment for us as the new facility in Bengaluru embodies our commitment to expanding our footprint in India and enabling a vibrant environment for our exceptional team members. This new hub reinforces SSIR’s standing as a crucial player in Samsung Semiconductor’s global innovation ecosystem as we open the doors to new opportunities”, said Balajee Sowrirajan, EVP & MD at Samsung Semiconductor India Research.

SSIR currently has a strength of over four thousand and five hundred (4500) employees and will add over seven hundred (700) people including fresh graduates as well as lateral hires across teams in India.

The post Samsung Semiconductor India expands R&D footprint with a new state-of-the-art R&D facility in Namma Bengaluru appeared first on ELE Times.

For both device developers and conformance test houses the R&S EPL1000 EMI test receiver offers fast, accurate and reliable EMI compliance measurements up to 30 MHz at the best price in its class. The R&S EPL1000 now adds click rate measurements in line with the latest CISPR 14-1:2020 version, mandatory for household appliances and electric power tools.

The electromagnetic emissions of a wide range of household consumer devices that must comply with CISPR 14-1 require conducted tests up to 30 MHz. The R&S EPL1000 EMI test receiver meets all requirements and complies with the CISPR test procedures for frequency bands A and B at an attractive price.

The new R&S EPL1-K59 Click Rate Analyzer option provides click rate measurements in line with CISPR 14-1 and the Japanese DENAN Law requirements. These measurements are mandatory for household appliances and electric power tools with switching operations such as cookers, air conditioners and washing machines, because the switching process can cause discontinuous disturbance (“clicks”) or spikes in emissions.

The R&S EPL1000 supports both the conventional sequential frequency scan and the fast FFT-based time domain scan, enabling it to measure CISPR band A and B standard compliant in one shot. The latest edition 7 of CISPR 14-1 requires the click rate to be calculated separately for four frequencies in CISPR Band B. With the R&S EPL1-K59, the R&S EPL1000 can measure all four frequencies in parallel and evaluate the results four times faster than other EMI analyzers that measure each frequency sequentially.

The R&S EPL1000 is ideal for both PASS/FAIL compliance tests and troubleshooting during development. For development and debugging, hours of measured values can be evaluated in a few seconds. Users can save and recall settings and measurements for subsequent analysis. Data can also be exported for post-processing. Features such as zoom-in and markers help users to examine the values of individual clicks, and to easily measure time and level differences beyond standard click analysis.

The R&S EPL1000 is fully compliant with CISPR 16-1-1 (referenced by CISPR14-1) including the click rate analyzer measurement function. In addition to the standard calibration documents for the individual base units, documentation of the click rate verification using pulses defined in accordance with CISPR 16-1-1 is available, as required by EMC test houses.

The post With click rate analysis, the R&S EPL1000 EMI test receiver is the cost-effective answer to CISPR 14-1 compliance testing appeared first on ELE Times.

From old buildings in need of modernisation to energy-intensive office buildings, there is much to do in the building sector en route to greater climate neutrality. In Germany, this sector accounts for around 30 per cent of CO2 emissions. For many years, however, the building sector has failed to reach the CO2 reduction targets set by the German government. Around 2,200 exhibitors are ready to present their innovative technologies at Light + Building in Frankfurt am Main from 3 to 8 March 2024.

Over the coming six days, the spotlight at the world’s leading trade fair for lighting and building-services technology will be on solutions for greater sustainability. Around 2,200 exhibitors are showing modern lighting design, smart building-services technology, technologies for efficient energy management, the connection of PV installations, charging stations for electrical mobility and the electrical infrastructure. These innovations have the potential to save up many millions of tonnes of CO2 by 2030.

Light + Building is the international platform for the electrical industry and lighting designers, and attracts companies from all over the world to Frankfurt am Main. The level of internationality among the exhibitors has reached 77 per cent. After Germany, the majority of exhibitors come from Italy, China, Türkiye, Spain, Poland, Austria, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, France and Greece. “It is fascinating to see how many innovations for our homes and buildings are coming onto the market. Everyone can expand their knowledge in personal discussions at Light + Building. After all, if we want to achieve the reorientation towards greater sustainability in the building sector, everything has to dovetail and function efficiently”, says Wolfgang Marzin, President and Chief Executive Officer, Messe Frankfurt.

Under the motto ‘Be electrified’, Light + Building shows how intelligent energy management in buildings interconnects and optimises power-generating plant with household consumption. This has an energy-saving potential of up to 30 percent. Renewable energy generated in or on the building itself improves the carbon footprint. Increasing e-mobility is also reducing CO2 emissions. Thus, demand is growing for charging points at private households, apartment buildings, shopping centres, offices, etc. Against this background, solutions for electric charging infrastructure will be presented and discussed at Light + Building 2024.

In cooperation with its partners, the German Electro and Digital Industry Association (ZVEI) and the Federation of the German Electrical and Information Technology Installation Trades (ZVEH), Messe Frankfurt has set out the agenda for the lighting and building technology sectors with three top themes: ‘Connectivity’, ‘Sustainability’ and ‘Work + Living’. They are the content guidelines for the accompanying events during the show and include a variety of lectures, guided tours and award ceremonies to be held in the lighting area of the Design Plaza in Hall 3.1 (Stand B50). The Building Plaza in Hall 9.0 (Stand D60) focuses on building-services technology topics.

The partners of Light + Building are also taking part. At the ZVEI Technology Forum in Hall 12.1 (Stand D86), Stefan Wenzel, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, and Wolfgang Marzin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Messe Frankfurt, will open the world’s leading trade fair for lighting and building-services technology at 13.00 hrs on 3 March 2024. Subsequently, the Technology Forum will be the meeting place for an exchange of ideas and information between exhibitors and visitors against a backdrop of lectures and panel discussions focussing on electrification and digitalisation of the building sector. The ZVEH is also represented by the E-House in Hall 11.0 (Stand C07/D07). There, the spotlight is on ‘sustainable energy supply’ and ‘smart health’.

The post Light + Building 2024: Reorientation for the building sector en route to greater sustainability appeared first on ELE Times.

Zurich Instruments, a leader in the development and production of quantum technology products, makes another step towards more computational quantum power. The new product line, SHF+, enables increased high-fidelity qubit control, and the new feature has already been tested at leading quantum labs. This allows for even more reliable manipulation of fragile quantum states and thus enables running more powerful algorithms. This is yet another important step toward the endgame: building a useful quantum computer.

This March, Zurich Instruments launches the newest system for control and readout of superconducting qubits, including a full measurement software framework: the SHFSG+ Signal Generator, SHFQC+ Qubit Controller, and SHFQA+ Quantum Analyzer. Designed to the limits of analog performance, the SHF+ product line unites high-fidelity qubit control and quality performance and accelerates the development of longer coherence time qubits and scaling up QPUs.

The SHFSG+, SHFQC+, and SHFQA+ improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) by 10 dB, placing them among the highest available on the market. Such a high SNR dramatically reduces thermal qubit excitation and, in turn, maximizes quantum computing algorithm fidelity. A substantially improved phase noise allows for suppressing phase errors in the control of long-lived qubits.

“By working closely with many leading quantum computing research groups, we’ve observed that the setup allows for reduction of the phase error limit up to ten times and reaches levels of 10-6 for qubits in the millisecond lifetime range”, says Dr. Bruno Küng, principal product marketing manager at Zurich Instruments.

In addition to a noise-optimized signal chain, the SHF+ products also offer the ability to actively mute the output for measurements on even the most sensitive of qubits.

“The new SHFSG+, SHFQC+ and SHFQA+ are the result of collaborations across the globe to provide the highest quality control electronics to the very people who are making great improvements in qubit quality – gate fidelity, lifetime, coherence – day by day. And we seal it all with the Swiss cross for quality”, says Dr. Mark Kasperczyk, senior product manager at Zurich Instruments.

“Strong connections to research have allowed us to stay on the frontiers of science, as well as to scale our operations in a sustainable way. We thank our R&D teams for developing the SHF+ line, and to institutes such as ETH Zurich and many others for performing validations. This is a step towards more computational quantum power: better and longer quantum circuits, even for a few qubits, and the use of larger chips for more powerful QPUs. The story goes on – towards 4 9s and hundreds of qubits to accelerate the second quantum revolution”, concludes Dr. Sadik Hafizovic, the CEO of Zurich Instruments.

The SHFQC+, SHFSG+ and SHFQA+ will be launched at the meeting of the American Physical Society (APS), 4th – 8th of March, in Minneapolis, USA.

The post Quantum Leap Forward: Zurich Instruments Unveils the SHF+ Product Line for High-Fidelity Qubit Control appeared first on ELE Times.

The post Renesas Unveils Powerful Single-Chip RZ/V2H MPU for Next-Gen Robotics with Vision AI and Real-Time Control appeared first on ELE Times.