ELE Times

MADISON, AL – August 2023 – STI Electronics, Inc. (STI), a full-service organization providing training services, training materials, analytical/failure analysis, prototyping, and contract PCB assembly, is excited to announce the latest addition to their exceptional team. Nika Bailey has been hired as a Quality Control Technician.

With an extensive background and expertise in quality control, Bailey brings a wealth of experience to the table. STI is delighted to have her join the Engineering Services Quality Department, where she will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the organization’s products and services maintain the highest standards of excellence.

“At STI, we pride ourselves on nurturing a collaborative and supportive environment that encourages growth and development,” said David Raby, President/CEO. “We are thrilled to welcome Nika to our team, and we have every confidence that her knowledge and skills will greatly contribute to our ongoing commitment to delivering top-notch products and services to our valued customers.”

STI Electronics has earned a reputation for excellence in the industry, and the continued growth of its quality and support staff reinforces the company’s dedication to maintaining its position as a leader in the electronics manufacturing and engineering services sector.

About STI Electronics, Inc.

STI’s mission is to provide electronic contract manufacturing, solution-based engineering, analytical services and training resources to the electronics industry.  We will consistently provide products and services that meet or exceed the requirements and expectations of our customers as well as industry standards. www.stiusa.com

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Continues to hold its leadership position

Mumbai; August 03, 2023: Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Limited (SWRE) (BSE Scrip Code: 542760; NSE Symbol: SWSOLAR), a leading home-grown renewable EPC, announced that it has won orders worth INR 826 crore in the first four months of FY 2023-24.

The orders aggregate to around 1 GWp and include projects in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. Scope of work for all projects include design, construction and commissioning. The projects will create hundreds of construction jobs, thus benefiting the local community.

Mr. Amit Jain – Global CEO, Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Group

Mr. Amit Jain – Global CEO, Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Group said, “Renewable sector plays a vital role in India’s journey towards clean energy. For us at SWRE, India continues to be a key market and we have been working together with different stakeholders, towards boosting renewable capacity in the region. All orders clocked in these four months are from our recurring partners and is a testament of our expertise in the industry. Our partnerships hold immense value for us, and we are grateful for their continued trust and confidence in us.”

“This accomplishment reflects upon our team’s dedication and hard work. Over the past decade, we have been a dominant player in the domestic market and are poised to delivering high-quality renewable solutions that drive sustainability and make a positive impact on the world and look forward to spearheading the journey with continuous growth and innovation”, he added.

About Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Limited

Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Limited (SWRE) is a global pure-play, end-to-end renewable engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) solutions provider. The company provides EPC services for utility-scale solar, floating solar and hybrid & energy storage solutions and has a total portfolio of over 15 GWp (including projects commissioned and under various stages of construction). SWRE also manages an operation and maintenance (O&M) portfolio of 6.4 GWp solar power projects, including for projects constructed by third parties. Present in 29 countries today, Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Limited has operations in India, South-east Asia, Middle East, Africa, Europe, Australia and the Americas.

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Product Line Offers High-Speed Data Transmission and Broad Frequency Band Coverage

IRVINE, Calif. – Fairview Microwave, an Infinite Electronics brand and a leading provider of on-demand RF, microwave and millimeter-wave components, has announced its new line of Wi-Fi 6E antennas set to deliver flawless network communications across various applications.

The newly introduced antennas also offer access to the latest Wi-Fi 6E frequency bands, ensuring high compatibility and ultra-fast gigabit transmissions. This technology handles demanding networking requirements with ease and is key for businesses aiming to stay at the forefront of their respective industries.

The Wi-Fi 6E antennas come with a variety of connector options including RSP, SMA or Type N connectors. This ensures a perfect fit for all types of network environments.

Engineered for long-range, point-to-point connections, these high-gain antennas act as a megaphone for data, reaching farther than ever before. Moreover, they are not just technically superior but physically robust. Constructed to withstand even the harshest weather conditions, they provide a reliable choice for all geographical locations.

The Wi-Fi 6E antennas’ broad bandwidth support ensures they can handle heavy-duty networking with ease, delivering gigabit-speed transmissions regardless of the data load. Furthermore, the integration of MIMO technology facilitates speedy multi-in, multi-out signal paths, eliminating lag and transforming network experiences.

“Our Wi-Fi 6E antennas are all about optimizing performance and flexibility. They guarantee efficient, top-speed data transmission at all times, catering to the requirements of in-building connections, mobile networking or point-to-point communications,” said Product Line Manager Kevin Hietpas.

Fairview Microwave’s new Wi-Fi 6E antennas are in stock and available for same-day shipping. For inquiries please call +1 (949) 261-1920.

About Fairview Microwave:

A leading supplier of on-demand RF and microwave products since 1992, Fairview offers immediate delivery of RF components including attenuators, adapters, coaxial cable assemblies, connectors, terminations and much more. All products are shipped same-day from the company’s ISO 9001:2015-certified production facilities in Lewisville, Texas. Fairview Microwave is an Infinite Electronics brand.

About Infinite Electronics:

Based in Irvine, Calif., Infinite Electronics offers a broad range of components, assemblies and wired/wireless connectivity solutions to the aerospace/defense, industrial, government, consumer electronics, instrumentation, medical and telecommunications markets. Its brands are Pasternack, Fairview Microwave, L-com, MilesTek, ShowMeCables, NavePoint, INC Installs, Integra Optics, PolyPhaser, Transtector, KP Performance Antennas, RadioWaves and Aiconics. Infinite serves its customers with deep technical expertise and support. Its broad inventory is available for immediate shipment, fulfilling unplanned demand for engineers and technical buyers. Infinite is a Warburg Pincus portfolio company.

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New Delhi: Electronics Sector Skill Council of India (ESSCI), an organisation operating under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship for the ESDM industry, is thrilled to announce the launch of the prestigious “National Electronics & IT Olympiad.” In collaboration with CSC academy, this nationwide initiative aims to empower the next generation of innovators and students from secondary and senior secondary schools across India. The Olympiad seeks to create a conducive ecosystem that supports and encourages students, with a vision to ensure the participation of students across the country.

Dr Abhilasha Gaur, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of ESSCI, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating that the Olympiad endeavours to reach every school, ensuring equitable opportunities for students across the nation. This one-of-a-kind Olympiad is open to all students from classes VI to XII and will be conducted online in English language only from 15th December 2023 to 15th January 2024, with the results scheduled for announcement in the 1st week of February 2024. The competition will last for 60 minutes and will focus on the standard syllabus of Electronics & IT.

Registration for the “National Electronics & IT Olympiad” has already commenced and will conclude in October 2023. The country has been divided into six zones, where the top 5 students/ subject/ class of each zone will be awarded scholarships, transferred directly to their bank accounts on a monthly/quarterly basis for one year. Furthermore, the top 5 students/class at the national level will receive scholarships based on their cumulative score in Electronics & IT, Mathematics, Science, Best of English or Hindi.

In recognition of outstanding performance, students ranked 6th to 50th in each zone will be honoured with medals and certificates at both zonal and national levels. Additionally, all students scoring 70% and above will receive a digital Certificate of Excellence, acknowledging their dedication and expertise in the subject. A key highlight of the “National Electronics & IT Olympiad” is the felicitation of top rankers at the zonal and national levels, alongside Principals and teacher coordinators of participating schools, during prestigious events.

Dr Gaur emphasized that the Electronics & IT Olympiad not only enhances students’ competitive abilities but also instils valuable skills like resilience and motivation, setting them up for success both academically and socially. “We firmly believe that this initiative will ignite the passion for Electronics & IT in young minds, empowering them to make informed decisions about their future careers and contribute significantly to their communities,” she added.

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Hamburg, Germany – 4 August, 2023 – Semiconductor industry players Robert Bosch GmbH, Infineon Technologies AG, Nordic Semiconductor, NXP® Semiconductors, and Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., have come together to jointly invest in a company aimed at advancing the adoption of RISC-V globally by enabling next-generation hardware development. Formed in Germany, this company will aim to accelerate the commercialization of future products based on the open-source RISC-V architecture. The company will be a single source to enable compatible RISC-V based products, provide reference architectures, and help establish solutions widely used in the industry. Initial application focus will be automotive, but with an eventual expansion to include mobile and IoT.

At its core, RISC-V encourages innovation, allowing any company to develop cutting-edge, customized hardware based on an open-source instruction set. Further adoption of the RISC-V technology will promote even more diversity in the electronics industry – reducing the barriers to entry for smaller and emergent companies and enabling increased scalability for established companies. The company calls on industry associations, leaders, and governments, to join forces in support of this initiative which will help increase the resilience of the broader semiconductor ecosystem. The company formation will be subject to regulatory approvals in various jurisdictions.

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Bengaluru, August 3, 2023 – Elfonze Technologies, an innovative technology company headquartered in Bengaluru with offices in Bhubaneswar and Denver, US, proudly announces to launch the groundbreaking Embedded Software Developer Bootcamp Training Program in collaboration with ssc nasscom. This visionary partnership aims to equip students with the skills and expertise needed to thrive in the fast-growing electronics sector. The official MoU signing for implementation of the Embedded software developer Bootcamp training took place today, marking a significant milestone in advancing the Electronic System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) industry.

Designed by industry subject matter experts (SMEs), this bootcamp program has been strategically crafted to address entry-level talent supply issues, reduce the need for extensive training by enterprises for industry-specific roles, and enhance the productivity of entry-level talent through a joint curriculum, courseware, assessment, and certification.

“The Embedded Software Developer Bootcamp holds the key to nurturing talent and empowering students to make meaningful contributions to the ever-evolving world of electronics,” said Vijai Velu, CEO and Co-Founder of Elfonze Technologies. “We are thrilled to collaborate with NASSCOM on this transformative initiative.” and Sunil Kumar KS, our Digital Strategist, will be instrumental in shaping the program.”

Under the esteemed mentorship of Mr. Jayachandra Aradhya, CTO-ESDM at Elfonze Technologies, and a team of Innovate Heads, Staff Engineers, and Industry experienced trainers, students will have the unique opportunity to work in Elfonze’ s state-of-the-art lab, gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools and technologies on real-world projects.

Mr. Saravanam J, COO – ESDM, passionately expressed, “The Embedded Software Developer Bootcamp training program is designed to unlock the immense potential of the electronics industry. With a remarkable surge in demand and scope both in India and abroad, the program strategically prepares students to capitalize on the numerous opportunities in the automotive, communications, medical, IoT and related sectors”.

The 480-hour Embedded Software Developer Bootcamp Training Program offers comprehensive training, including 210 hours of instructor-led training, 180 hours of instructor-assisted lab work, and 90 hours of on-the-job training or project work. The program aligns with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) Level 5 and is developed in collaboration with industry experts from various sectors. Selected through a rigorous evaluation process, bootcamp training partner Elfonze Technologies will be responsible for enrolling and training students based on industry recruitment forecasts. The final assessment conducted by ssc nasscom ensures adherence to NSQF standards, with successful candidates earning 16 credits in their National Skill Passport, validating their proficiency in industry-specific skills.

Notably, the Embedded Software Developer Bootcamp Training Program has a 100% job placement assistance for students upon successful completion, with added benefit of the recruiting company providing a refund of INR 30000, when candidate joins the company. We are committed to providing unwavering support in securing opportunities with top-notch engineering companies  “Elfonze Technologies proudly presents this program at the accessible price of INR 50,000 + GST as our steadfast commitment to cultivating skills in ESDM and inspiring dedicated Electronics Engineers to follow their passion in pursuing careers within their core competencies” The first batch is scheduled to begin in September 2023 at Elfonze Technologies, Basappa Complex, Lavelle Road, Bengaluru.

Aspiring engineers with a passion for electronics and seeking a rewarding career in the industry can apply for the Embedded Software Developer Bootcamp Training Program by passing an entrance test, unlocking a gateway to an exciting and prosperous future. The program positions participants to make a lasting impact in a field that influences every aspect of modern life.

For more information about the Embedded Engineering Bootcamp and to apply, interested students can visit the official website at www.esdm.elfonze.com.

About Elfonze Technologies:

Elfonze Technologies is a dynamic and innovative technology company, dedicated to creating cutting-edge solutions and fostering talent in the electronics industry. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, Elfonze Technologies is at the forefront of driving advancements in the ESDM space.

About SSC nasscom:

SSC nasscom exists as the national standard setting body for technology skills, working in close coordination with the industry body nasscom and under the aegis of NSDC. We live in a continuously changing world that’s increasingly reliant in new, emerging technologies. Ssc is working to accelerate the transformation of the education and skills ecosystem to position India as THE global talent hub.

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The Kit Allows MediaTek’s Customers to Integrate THine’s Leadingdge Imaging Capabilities into AI + IoT Products with Minimal Effort

[Santa Clara, CA, August 8, 2023] 

THine Solutions, Inc. (THine) today announced the new THEIA-CAM 13MP PDAF Camera, the THSCP101, that provides high resolution image streaming with OLogic’s Pumpkin i350 and Pumpkin i500 Evaluation Kits (EVKs). These Pumpkin EVKs are powered by MediaTek Genio 350 and Genio 500 System on Chips (SoCs), that provide edge processing platforms for AI + IoT systems.

The THSCP101 Kit is designed to interface to the Pumpkin EVKs and is based on THine’s THP7312-P Image Signal Processor (ISP) and Sony’s IMX258 13MP CMOS PDAF image sensor. The Kit includes all items required to interface with the Pumpkin EVKs, including a Camera Board in an acrylic case, a Flat Flexible Cable, an Adaptor Board to support 2 MIPI CSI-2 ports of the Pumpkin EVK, and an available software driver to stream and control images. The Kit can be easily set up by using a Video4Linux2 (V4L2) driver available at THine to control various video functions and the libcamera middleware stack to integrate into the complete MediaTek Genio SDK.

THine’s optimized ISP firmware provides Best-in-Class image quality and ultra-quick autofocus using Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF) technology. The performance of each Kit is repeatable for use in high volume production due to our production process to characterize the image parameters of each image sensor and to calibrate the image signal processing to compensate for variation from sensor to sensor.

All the Linux files and reference circuit schematics are available to customers. Also, for customers that require unique image performance features, THine can provide a GUI based software development tool that customizes the ISP firmware. As a result, the THSCP101 accelerates MediaTek Genio platform customers’ time-to-market without expensive initial costs or additional effort for developing embedded camera systems.

“THSCP101 relieves the design burden for numerous customers of MediaTek Genio series SoCs who require a high-performance embedded cameras,” said Tak Iizuka, Chief Solution Architect of THine Solutions, Inc. “Previously, developing a scalable integration of high-resolution and high-performance imaging capabilities to an AI + IoT system had been really difficult, but not anymore. MediaTek customers can now just plug the THSCP101 to Pumpkin EVKs and then see the state-of-the-art image quality just in a few minutes.”

“It is quite a breakthrough for our solution offerings,” said Ted Larson, CEO of OLogic, Inc. “We saw many customers who struggled to integrate high resolution cameras. Despite many camera-related components available in the market, it was almost impossible for them to even perform decent color tuning before going into production.”

“Integrating THine’s established vision system technology into our solution suite adds another advantage to our AI + IoT ecosystem,” said Stéphane Le Provost, Senior Director of Technology at MediaTek. “This kit makes it simpler for customers to include camera systems in their products without having to manage the long and expensive process of developing and producing them from scratch.”

THSCP101 Key Features

• Compatible with OLogic’s Pumpkin i350 and Pumpkin i500 up to 2 cameras each
• Various High-Resolution options including but not limited to 13MP at 20fps, 4K2K at 30fps, and 1080p at 60fps, all in YUV422 format.
• Ultra-Quick Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF)
• Best-in-Class Image Quality with well-optimized Auto White Balance and Auto Exposure
• Perfect Unit-to-Unit Image Quality for High Volume Production
• Single 1.38” x 1.38” (35mm x 35mm) Camera Board

About THEIA-CAM Family

The THEIA-CAM family of kits address wide-ranging camera applications including but not limited to AI + IoT devices, AR Glasses, Barcode Reading Devices, Biometric Devices, Bodycams, Document Scanners, Machine Vision systems, Medical Scopes, Microscopes, Surveillance Cameras, Vision Assistance Glasses, and Webcams. THSCU101, the first Kit in the family, is a 13MP PDAF USB Video Class (UVC) Camera.

About OLogic’s Pumpkin i350 and i500

The Pumpkin i350 and i500 EVKs are an Edge AI platform designed for mainstream AI + IoT applications that require vision and voice edge processing, such as facial, object, gesture, motion recognition, LPR, voice activation and speed recognition, sound isolation, bio-tech and biometric measurements, and more. Built on the success of the high-end Pumpkin i500, the new i350 is a lower cost, mid-range performance platform that enables engineering teams to design for wider market adoption use cases such as door entry systems, personal gym trainers, child sleep companion robots, and much more.

Availability

The THSCP101 is available for purchase at OLogic’s online store and Digi-Key.

• [OLogic] https://ologic.store/products/thscp101-theia-cam
• [Digi-Key] https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/thine-solutions-inc/THSCP101/21273748

About THine: THine Solutions, Inc. (TSI), headquartered in Santa Clara, CA is a subsidiary of THine Electronics, Inc. (TYO: 6769), a Japanese company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. TSI is responsible for worldwide sales and marketing of our THS Series Kit Solutions including THEIA-CAM Family, as well as for sales and marketing of THine IC products in the Americas, EMEA, and India territories. | Our products target embedded camera systems that require smart image processing and high-speed data transmission. Our combination of ICs, Solution reference designs, design tools, and design support provides a unique value to small, medium, and large customers. | We offer Image Signal Processor (ISP) ICs and reference designs to use these ICs in our THEIA-CAM camera solutions. Our THEIA-CAM supports various Operating Systems including Windows®, macOS®, Android, and Linux®, and various platforms including Raspberry Pi, Jetson, i.MX 8M families, and MediaTek Genio platform. We also have Camera Development Tools to support customizing ISP firmware development. | Our SerDes ICs support various interfaces including our own proprietary V-by-One® HS high-speed transmission protocol that is the de facto standard driving television displays, LVDS (Open LDI), MIPI CSI-2, and Parallel (LVCMOS). | End product markets we serve include medical scopes, AR/VR systems, barcode scanners, vision assistive glasses, multifunction printers, drones, surveillance cameras, biometric devices, body cams, USB webcams, surgical microscopes, high-resolution displays, and automotive infotainment systems. | TSI supports fulfilment directly and through our distribution partners including Arrow Asia, Avnet, and Digi-Key. Website: www.thinesolutions.com.

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New Line Handles Wide Frequencies, Achieves Unrivaled Speed and Efficiency

IRVINE, Calif. – Pasternack, an Infinite Electronics brand and a leading provider of RF, microwave and millimeter-wave products, has announced its newest line of state-of-the-art Wi-Fi 6E components.

The newly launched Wi-Fi 6E components feature high-performance capabilities that set a new benchmark in the industry. With enhanced power ratings, these components can comfortably manage demanding performance thresholds, offering greater reliability in operation.

Known for their exceptional frequency capabilities, these components are designed to handle frequencies across an expansive spectrum. This enables superior bandwidth options for wireless data transmission, a must in today’s high-speed digital age.

The advanced RF components come in a variety of connective designs, including SMA, Type N and TNC connectors. This range offers a flexible choice for customers, ensuring the best fit for any configuration. Pasternack has also expanded its spectrum of attenuation options, putting powerful control in the hands of the user.

Durability remains a top priority, with options for brass and stainless-steel component bodies. Ensuring that customers are equipped for the future, Pasternack has developed these RF and microwave components to be compatible with a wide range of new devices, emphasizing the company’s forward-thinking approach.

“Our latest Wi-Fi 6E components are an essential lifeline for wireless connectivity,” said Product Line Manager Kevin Hietpas. “These RF devices empower robust data transmission tailored to applications demanding crystal-clear wireless, satellite and telecommunication links.”

Pasternack’s Wi-Fi 6E components are in stock and available for same-day shipping. For inquiries, please call +1 (949) 261-1920.

About Pasternack:

A leader in RF products since 1972, Pasternack is an ISO 9001:2015-certified manufacturer and supplier offering the industry’s largest selection of active and passive RF, microwave and millimeter-wave products available for same-day shipping. Pasternack is an Infinite Electronics brand.

About Infinite Electronics:

Based in Irvine, Calif., Infinite Electronics offers a broad range of components, assemblies and wired/wireless connectivity solutions to the aerospace/defense, industrial, government, consumer electronics, instrumentation, medical and telecommunications markets. Its brands are Pasternack, Fairview Microwave, L-com, MilesTek, ShowMeCables, NavePoint, INC Installs, Integra Optics, PolyPhaser, Transtector, KP Performance Antennas, RadioWaves and Aiconics. Infinite serves its customers with deep technical expertise and support. Its broad inventory is available for immediate shipment, fulfilling unplanned demand for engineers and technical buyers. Infinite is a Warburg Pincus portfolio company.

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Munich, Germany – 07 August, 2023 – Infineon Technologies AG (FSE: IFX / OTCQX: IFNNY) introduces the TLE988x and TLE989x families extending the company’s comprehensive and proven portfolio of MOTIX MCU embedded power ICs. By integrating a gate driver, microcontroller, communication interface and power supply on a single chip, Infineon’s system-on-chip solutions achieve a minimal footprint. The new TLE988x and TLE989x families offer higher performance and now feature CAN (FD) as the communication interface. The ICs are AEC Q-100 qualified, making them ideal for automotive brushed DC and brushless DC motor control applications in body, comfort, and thermal management applications.

“The new MOTIX MCU embedded power IC families address our customers’ needs for the smallest integrated smart motor control solutions with fast and very robust on-chip CAN FD transceivers for host communication,” said Andreas Doll, Senior Vice President and General Manager Smart Power at Infineon. “The new product families additionally offer approximately 60 percent more processing power compared to the well-established TLE987x product family and provide functional safety and cybersecurity functions which are becoming increasingly important for oil pumps in thermal management systems in electric vehicles.”

The new devices use a B4 or B6 bridge N-channel MOSFET driver, respectively, an Arm® Cortex® M3 microcontroller, and a CAN (FD) controller and transceiver supporting a communication speed of 2 Mbps. Customers benefit not only from fast and robust communication but also from the highest computing performance thanks to the high system frequency (60 MHz) and its dual flash enabling read-while-write operation. The relevant features of the new products are ISO 26262 (ASIL B) compliant and some variants have built-in cybersecurity. All of these features are offered in a 7 mm x 7 mm TQFP package with a market-leading footprint.

The MOTIX MCU TLE988x 2-phase bridge driver family and the MOTIX MCU TLE989x 3-phase bridge driver family include multiple devices which offer flash sizes

of up to 256 kB and support temperature ranges (Tj max) up to 175°C. In addition, the ICs feature Infineon’s patented Adaptive MOSFET Control algorithm, which compensates for the variation of MOSFET parameters in the system by automatically adjusting the gate current to achieve the required switching. This allows the system to be optimized in terms of EMI (electromagnetic emissions, slow slew rates) and at the same time, power dissipation (short dead times). Adaptive MOSFET Control also enables supply chain flexibility by maintaining the same switching behavior across variations in MOSFET production lots or differences between MOSFET suppliers.

To accelerate the evaluation and design-in process, the MOTIX MCU embedded power ICs are completed by a comprehensive ecosystem that includes software, evaluation boards and kits, as well as several tools for simulation, configuration and visualization. Infineon also offers a 150 W coolant pump reference design. In addition to sample and demo software, the company provides a comprehensive stack of commercial software products covering automotive ASPICE level qualified motor control libraries including FOC algorithms.

Availability

The MOTIX MCU TLE988x and TLE989x devices are in production and available. Two variants in LQFP package with 64 pins will follow in December 2023.

More information is available at www.infineon.com/TLE988x and www.infineon.com/TLE989x.

 

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Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs) are widely used temperature sensing devices that operate based on the principle of the change in electrical resistance of certain materials with temperature. These devices are commonly used in various industrial applications for accurate temperature measurement. 

Top 10 RTD Companies in the USA

We have curated the top 10 RTD Companies in the USA for suppliers, consumers, and distributors working in the electronics market. 

Minco

Minco was founded in 1956 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. The company focuses on developing thermal solutions and temperature-sensing technologies for a wide range of industries. Minco is known for its expertise in designing and manufacturing flexible, reliable, and accurate temperature sensors and thermal management solutions. Their product offering includes- temperature sensors, flexible heaters, flex circuits, etc. Minco serves a diverse range of industries including – aerospace and defense, medical, semiconductor, automotive, energy, industrial, etc. Minco is specialized in handling innovation and customization of its products. 

Pyromation

Pyromation specializes in temperature sensors and temperature measurement solutions. They are known for designing, manufacturing, and distributing a wide range of industrial temperature sensors, thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), thermowell, and related accessories.

Pyromation serves various industries, including but not limited to, manufacturing, process industries, aerospace, automotive, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and more. Their products are often used for monitoring and controlling temperature in various industrial processes to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency.

Watlow

Watlow was established in 1922 and is headquartered in Missouri, USA. With over 100 years of experience, Watlow has long-serving experience in providing thermal solutions across various industries. The company’s experience spans industries like- semiconductor processing, clean environment technology, energy generation, and food service equipment. With an extensive patent portfolio of over 1000 patents, Watlow has over 12 high-tech manufacturing facilities, and 5 advanced development centers, and has a sales coverage across 178 countries.  

Omega Engineering 

Omega Engineering was established in 1962 and is headquartered in Norwalk, Connecticut, USA. With a global presence, the company specializes in manufacturing and distributing a wide range of industrial sensors, instruments, and automation products for measurement and control applications. Omega offers an extensive range of products designed for various industries and applications, including- temperature sensors (RTDs, thermocouples, thermistors), pressure sensors, flow, and level sensors, data acquisition and control instruments, automation and process control, heaters and heating elements, lab, and test equipment. Industries served include – manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, energy, research and development, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning). 

Conax Technologies

Conax Technology was founded in 1945 and is headquartered in Buffalo, New York, USA. The company specializes in the design and manufacture of temperature sensors, pressure and vacuum seals, and related products for a variety of industries and applications. Conax offers a wide range of products like- temperature sensors, pressure and vacuum seals, thermowell, feed-throughs, and connectors. They serve a range of industries including but not limited to aerospace and defense, oil and gas, power generation, semiconductor, medical and healthcare, industrial manufacturing, research and development. 

Sensata Technologies

With a history spanning 100 years, Sensata has accumulated extensive experience in providing solutions to various industries. The company specializes in serving the electronic industry, with a particular focus on electrification, electric aircraft, and advanced air mobility solutions. They have expanded business across 16 countries, indicating a strong global presence. They have a remarkable 1.1 billion units shipped per year. Sensata achieved a revenue of USD 4 billion in 2022. They offer a diverse range of products catering to different industries like- pressure sensors, relays, force sensors, motor protectors, circuit breakers, inverters and chargers, temperature sensors, motors and actuators, and more. Their industrial experience spans domains like- automotive, aerospace and defense, marine, telecom, energy, construction, material handling, medical, agriculture, HVAC, motorcycle, and RV. 

Kelvin Technologies

Established in 2000, Kelvin Technologies specializes in providing various services including – calibration, extruder rebuilds, and custom-engineered assemblies. Kelvin targets a diverse range of industries including aerospace, medical, industrial machinery, plastics, transportation, security, semiconductor, and more. Their product catalog includes- temperature sensors (RTDs, thermocouples, thermistors), heaters, wiring harnesses, temperature controls, relays, and accessories. The company’s targeted customers are from domains including- aerospace, medical, plastics, transportation, security, semiconductor, and more. 

Ashcroft, Inc.

Ashcroft Inc was founded in 1852 and is headquartered in Stratford, Connecticut, USA. Ashcroft has a global presence and offers a diverse range of products and solutions primarily focusing on pressure and temperature measurement and control, including- pressure gauges, pressure transducers and transmitters, temperature instruments, differential pressure gauges, digital pressure and temperature gauges, calibration equipment, and more. They serve a wide range of industries including, but not limited to aerospace, industrial manufacturing, oil and gas, energy, and power generation. 

Thermo Electric Company, Inc.

Thermo Electric Company was founded in 1941 and is headquartered in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, USA. The company is known for its expertise in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of temperature measurement devices. They specialize in manufacturing various types of RTDs and other temperature sensors for industrial applications. Thermo Electric serves a diverse range of industries that require accurate temperature measurement and control, including, industrial manufacturing, petrochemical, power generation, aerospace, food and beverage, HVAC, and more. 

Temperature Specialists

Established in the year 1977, Temperature Specialists is known for being a major manufacturer of temperature sensors and related products. The products offered by the company include- temperature sensors (thermistors, thermocouples, thermowell, RTDs), electrical connection heads, nozzle temperature sensors, molded handle probes, melt bolt assemblies, and more. 

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One of the largest fintech investors in the industry finally wants to buy auspicious AI software. As Bloomberg sources report, private equity giant Ripplewood plans to invest $1 billion in OpenAI.

OpenAI is currently in the media with the potentially revolutionary but also controversially discussed chatbot software ChatGPT and the image artificial intelligence Dall-E. The idea behind it seems obvious: Ripplewood would like to set up the software as a driving force in a fund.

Ripplewood and OpenAI do not yet want to comment on a potential investment. The US asset manager, which is increasingly advancing the European market, is considered as an important financier.

Irrespective of financial advantages, Ripplewood could benefit significantly from the stake simply by the fact that in the event of a possible IPO a ChatGPT stake is a giant valuable asset in the bargain for investors.

Ripplewood plans to launch an AI-powered investment opportunity

With this innovation, a new form of investing should also be made accessible to private investors.

Through the use of artificial intelligence, investors should benefit from greater accuracy in forecasting market developments. The AI-supported investment opportunity is intended to be a user-friendly and cost-efficient solution to optimize investors’ portfolios.

“We are pleased to be able to offer our clients an innovative investment opportunity based on the latest technology,” said a spokesman for Ripplewood. “By using artificial intelligence, we can achieve greater accuracy in forecasting market developments and thus manage our clients’ portfolios more effectively.”

The market launch of the AI-supported investment option is planned for the end of 2023 if participation in OpenAI is successful. Ripplewood and its partners are convinced that this new form of investing has the potential to revolutionize the way private investors invest.

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Offered in Compact 1.85 mm by 1.2 mm by 0.6 mm SMD Package, Device Features CTR of 31 %, Sensing Distance to 15 mm, and Lower Power Consumption

The Optoelectronics group of Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. introduced a new reflective optical sensor for industrial, computer, consumer, and mobility applications. Saving space compared to previous-generation solutions — while delivering improved performance with a higher current transfer ratio (CTR), increased sensing distance, and lower power consumption — the Vishay Semiconductors VCNT2030 features a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) and a silicon phototransistor in a miniature 1.85 mm by 1.2 mm by 0.6 mm surface-mount package.

The device released features a compact construction in which the emitting light source and detector are arranged in the same plane. It offers excellent internal crosstalk suppression due to the VCSEL’s narrow ± 17° emission angle, which also enables improved proximity performance behind cover glass. The VCNT2030’s analog output signal at the phototransistor is dependent on the amount of light emitted by the VCSEL and reflected off an object in the sensor’s field of view. The device offers a sensing distance of 15 mm, which is three times higher than the closest competing device on the market.

With its compact footprint, the VCNT2030 saves > 40 % PCB space compared to previous-generation devices, allowing the sensor to serve as a space-saving solution for optical switching in industrial infrastructure, home and building controls, notebook and desktop computers, home appliances, consumer electronics, and metering applications; optical encoding for motor control in e-bikes, golf carts, tractors, and harvesters; and paper presence detection in printers and scanners. In these applications the low 8 mA driving current of the device’s VCSEL is enough to achieve the same performance as solutions using 20 mA infrared emitters, dramatically lowering power consumption.

The sensor offers a detection range of 0.3 mm to 6 mm, an emitter wavelength of 940 nm, and a typical output current of 2.5 mA, which represents a typical CTR of 31 % under test conditions. This value is > 100 % higher than previous-generation solutions and the closest competing sensor. The device features a Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) of 3 for reflow soldering according to J-STD-020. It is RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, and Vishay Green.

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The government on Friday said a production-linked scheme for large-scale electronics manufacturing has seen investments worth Rs 6,887 crore

The government on Friday said the production-linked scheme (PLI) for large-scale electronics manufacturing (including mobiles) has seen investments worth Rs 6,887 crore (till June 2023), already surpassing the target for FY24 which was Rs 5,488 crore.

The PLI scheme for large-scale electronics manufacturing, notified in April 2020 for a period of five years, extended an incentive of 3-6 percent on incremental sales (over base year) of goods manufactured in India and covered under target segments like mobile phones and specified electronic components, to eligible companies.

“During the scheme tenure, the scheme is expected to contribute investment of Rs 7,000 crore, production of Rs 8,12,550 crore, exports of Rs 4,87,530 crore and generated employment of 2,00,000 (direct jobs),” Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, told the Rajya Sabha.

Till June this year, the PLI scheme has generated Rs 3,30,612 crore worth of production, Rs 1,56,051 crore worth of exports, and 62,173 direct jobs (cumulative). “The government’s goal is to broaden and deepen the country’s electronic manufacturing ecosystem as well as increase India’s participation in electronics Global Value Chains (GVCs),” said the minister.

Till date, 32 applicants have been approved under the PLI scheme. To improve the quality of electronic goods manufactured or imported into the country, the IT Ministry’s 2021 notification mandates compulsory compliance for the manufacture or store for sale, import, sell, or distribution of notified electronic goods or articles to corresponding Indian standards. Under this order, the ministry has notified 64 electronic goods or articles for mandatory compliance.

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Several manufacturing companies in the USA are known for their Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs), and other temperature-sensing equipment. These manufacturing facilities often serve a wide range of industries including aerospace, automotive, and more.

Top 10 RTD Manufacturers in the USA

When looking for RTD manufacturers in the USA, it’s important to consider factors such as the specific type of RTD needed, industry requirements, customization options, and certifications. 

We have curated a list of the top 10 RTD manufacturers in the USA for consumers, suppliers, and distributors.  

Conax Technologies 

Conax Technologies was established in 1950, in Buffalo, New York. The company’s product range includes- compression seal fittings, temperature sensors (RTDs and thermocouple cables), and harness assemblies. They are among the lead solution providers in the field of aerospace, liquid natural gas, power, petrochemical industry, photovoltaic industry, Powergen, semiconductor industry, and more. They have expertise in developing standard and custom-designed compression seal fittings, temperature sensors, and cable harness assemblies.

Kelvin Technologies

Started in 2000, Kelvin Technologies specializes in services like calibration, extruder rebuilds, and custom-engineered assemblies. The company is targeting the following industries – aerospace, medical, industrial machinery, plastics, transportation, security, semiconductor, etc. Their product portfolio includes- temperature sensors (thermocouples, RTDs), heaters, wiring harnesses, temperature controls, relays, and, accessories. 

Sensata Technologies

Serving the electronic industry for the last 100 years, Sensata Technologies holds vast experience in providing solutions for Electrification, Electric Aircraft, and Advanced Air Mobility. The company has expanded its business in over 16 countries, with a whopping USD 1.1 billion units shipped per year. As per reports, they generated a revenue of USD 4 billion in 2022. Sensata provides products in various segments like- pressure sensors, relays, force sensors, motor protectors, circuit breakers, inverters and chargers, temperature, motors, actuators, etc. The company’s industrial footprints include- automotive, aerospace and defense, marine, telecom, energy, construction, material handling, medical, agriculture, HVAC, motorcycle and RV, etc. 

Ashcroft, Inc.

Ashcroft Inc. was established in 1852 and is a pioneer of pressure and temperature instrumentation. Within process industry solutions they cater to process markets like – chemical, food and beverage, metals and minerals, oil and gas, pharma and biotech, power, water, and wastewater. In the last 100+ years of its existence, the company has spread its wings in industrial markets including- HVAC/R, Industrial Equipment Manufacturing, Medical Health and Safety, Semiconductor, and Vehicles. Their range of product lines includes- Pressure gauges, calibrations, thermowell, RTDs, temperature switches, thermocouples, hydraulic testers, test gauges, etc. 

Thermo Electric Company, Inc.

Established in 1941 in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, Thermo Electric has been providing temperature measurement and control solutions for the last 70+ years. The company is equipped to serve the following solutions- immersion, industrial, surface mount, wafers, accessories, etc. and their services include- calibration, testing, engineering, and site services. With more than 20+ million sensors installed, Thermo’s clientele includes- B&W, Applied Materials, Boeing, Ford, Siemens, etc. 

Temperature Specialists

Temperature Specialists was founded in 1977 and are among the major manufacturers of temperature sensors and equipment in the USA. The company specializes in manufacturing a wide range of temperature sensors and related products for various applications. Their products include- RTDs, thermocouples, thermowell, electrical connection heads, melt bolt assemblies, nozzle temperature sensors, molded handle probes, and thermistors. Their products are widely used in home appliances, automotive, medical, and electronics.

Thermo Sensors Corporation

Thermo Sensors, founded in 1972, is a major manufacturer and supplier, that specializes in high-tech thermocouples and RTD assemblies. The company caters to a diverse range of industries, including chemical, petrochemical, refining, food, pharmaceutical, power, and environmental sectors. The products they manufacture and supply include- MGO thermocouples, Industrial Thermocouples (E, J, K, N, T, R, S, and B), RTDs, Wires, and accessories. The industries they serve highlight the critical nature of accurate temperature measurement and control in processes that involve chemicals, petrochemicals, food production, pharmaceuticals, power generation, and environmental monitoring. 

Thermalogic Corporation

Thermalogic, established in 1971, has over 50 years of experience in designing and manufacturing temperature, humidity, and process control systems and equipment. Their expertise also extends to temperature sensor assemblies and temperature and humidity transmitters. They are at the forefront of incorporating cutting-edge technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and internet-enables controls and transmitters into their products. The industries they serve include- environmental equipment, liquid chillers, industrial HVAC, heat treatment equipment, food processing equipment, military HVAC, medical, lab and testing equipment, semiconductor processing equipment, and industrial ovens. Thermalogic’s focus on integrating IoT technology suggests they are leveraging connectivity to provide advanced monitoring, control, and data insights to their clients. This can lead to improved efficiency, remote monitoring capabilities, and enhanced automation in the industries they serve. 

Pyromation

Pyromation, established in 1962, has major experience in providing temperature measurement solutions. As an ISO-9001 accredited company, they prioritize quality in their products and services. Additionally, their onsite NVLAP-accredited metrology laboratory suggests a commitment to accurate calibration and measurement practices. Pyromation’s product catalog includes a variety of temperature-related products like- RTDSs, thermowell, thermocouples, transmitters, connection heads, wires, and accessories. The company’s diverse range of products caters to various industries- aerospace, food and beverage, dairy, pharmaceuticals, metal processing, biomass, water and wastewater, chemical, mining, energy, and power. 

Watlow

Watlow has over 100 years of experience in numerous industries like- semiconductor processing, clean environment technology, energy generation, diesel emission, and medical and food service equipment. The company’s wide-ranging product line includes – Heaters (air heaters, cartridge, circulation heaters, fluid delivery heaters, etc.), Controllers (temperature and process controllers, power controllers, data loggers, integrated multi-function controllers, indicators, scanners, operator interfaces, mobile applications, etc.), and sensors (thermocouple, RTDs, temperature sensors). Watlow has over 1000 patents, 12 world-class manufacturing facilities, 5 advanced technology and development centres, and sales coverage in over 178 countries.

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Infineon is expanding its OptiMOS 5 automotive MOSFET lineup to address the growing demand for ECUs in the electrification of transportation, offering new products with compact size, excellent thermal performance, and superior switching capabilities.

The electrification of the transportation system is advancing continuously. In addition to passenger cars, 2- and 3-wheelers as well as light vehicles are increasingly being electrified. Therefore, the automotive market for Electronic Control Units (ECUs) powered by 24 V-72 V is expected to keep growing in the coming years. To address this development, Infineon Technologies AG (FSE: IFX / OTCQX: IFNNY) is complementing its OptiMOS 5 portfolio of automotive MOSFETs in the 60 V and 120 V range with new products in the high-power packages TOLL, TOLG, and TOLT. They are offering a compact form factor with very good thermal performance combined with excellent switching behavior.

The six new products offer a narrowed gate threshold voltage (VGS(th)) enabling designs with parallel MOSFETs for increased output power capability. The IAUTN06S5N008, IAUTN06S5N008G, and IAUTN06S5N008T are 60 V MOSFETs, and the IAUTN12S5N017, IAUTN12S5N018G and IAUTN12S5N018T are 120 V MOSFETs. The on resistance (RDS(on)) ranges from 1.7 mΩ to 1.8 mΩ for the 120 V MOSFETs and is 0.8 mΩ for the 60 V MOSFETs. This makes the 60V MOSFETs perfectly suited for high-power 24 V supplied CAV applications or for HV-LV DCDC converters in xEVs. The 120 V MOSFETs are used in 48 V – 72 V supplied traction inverters for 2- or 3-wheelers and light electric vehicles.

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Kore.ai Study Shows that the Latest AI-Driven Intelligent Virtual Assistants can Boost Agent Loyalty, Productivity & Job Satisfaction

New research from Kore.ai, the world’s leading enterprise AI Company providing conversational and generative AI platforms and solutions, has revealed a growing acceptance for AI-powered virtual assistants among contact center agents.

The findings from a recent survey of contact centers worldwide indicate that the agents are increasingly endorsing the use of intelligent virtual assistants (IVAs) as it helps in enhancing results, improves productivity, and ensures better job satisfaction.

The report puts to rest concerns about any adverse impact of AI on workforce and employment, as well as the fears associated with generative AI and large language models within the contact center workforce.

But far from seeing AI as an existential threat, the research shows that contact center representatives consider IVAs to be as important as having a competitive salary and a positive work environment with respect.

The findings not only demonstrate the positive impact of AI in assisting agents, but also reveal their overwhelming support and desire to work alongside these tools that enhance their capabilities. A remarkable 84% of the respondents agreed that they could greatly benefit from “tools that wrap up a customer call accurately and automatically.” This insight highlights the agent’s need for AI-powered solutions that efficiently handle post-call tasks, such as summarizing key details and generating accurate wrap-up notes.

Kore.ai and its research partner surveyed customer service representatives who work remotely or onsite for a contact center (Center Agent Experience Benchmark Reports, 2023).

Key findings include:

• Agents Voice Concern: 59% contact center agents report they don’t get the modern intelligent virtual assistant tools they want.
• Right Tech – A Priority for Agents: Having tools and technology that help reduce customer frustration rivals a competitive salary and an environment where the agent is respected.
• Embrace IVAs: 78% of all agents see IVAs as a means to fine tune their customer interactions by delivering more accuracy.
• IVAs Pave the Way: 77% of all agents believe IVAs are good for the customer and agent alike and 77% are comfortable using these tools.
• Advocacy for Customer-Centric Tools: 88% of agents agreed that it’s important to have “tools and technology that help reduce customer frustration.”
• Agents Demand More: 85% of contact center agents agreed that they want a tool that “always provides me with the most up-to-date and full history of a customer.”

“This survey demonstrates the growing acceptance and positive impact of automated assistants driven by advances in AI technology,” noted Kore.ai CEO and Founder Raj Koneru. “We are confident that this research will serve as a valuable resource for organizations looking to enhance service and support interactions through the integration of AI-powered automation. By leveraging Omni channel IVAs, organizations can deliver superior experiences while empowering agents to excel in their roles.”

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A thermocouple is a temperature-sensing device used to measure temperatures in a wide range of applications. It operates on the principle of the Seebeck effect, which is the phenomenon where a voltage is generated at the junction of two dissimilar metals when there is a temperature difference between the junction and the free ends of the metals.

The basic construction of a thermocouple includes two different metal wires joined together at the ends to form a loop. One end is known as the “hot junction”, where the temperature to be measured is applied, while the other end is referred to as the “cold junction”, which typically remains at a reference temperature.

When there is a temperature difference between the hot and cold junctions, a voltage is produced at the junction due to the Seebeck effect. This voltage is proportional to the temperature difference and can be measured using a voltmeter.

Proper calibration, maintenance, and usage are essential to ensure accurate and reliable temperature measurements. Regular calibration checks can help verify the accuracy of the thermocouple over time and maintain its performance in critical applications.

Over time, scientists and engineers have standardized certain metal combinations to create different types of thermocouples, each with its unique characteristics and temperature range. These standardized combinations ensure consistency and accuracy in temperature measurements across various applications.

It is essential to choose the appropriate thermocouple type for a specific application to ensure accurate and reliable temperature readings. The standardized metal combinations and defined thermocouple types help achieve consistency and comparability across different devices and industries.

Thermocouple- Working Principle

The Seebeck effect is a phenomenon where a voltage is generated at the junction of two dissimilar conductive materials when there is a temperature difference between the junction and the ends of the materials. This voltage is proportional to the temperature difference between the two ends of the thermocouple.

In a thermocouple, when the two dissimilar metal wires are joined at the ends to form a loop, and one of the junctions (hot junction) is subjected to a different temperature than the other junction (cold junction), a continuous flow of electric current is established in the thermoelectric circuit due to the voltage produced by the Seebeck effect.

The net open voltage, or the Seebeck voltage, that results from this temperature difference is directly related to the junction temperature and the composition of the two metals used in the thermocouple. Each thermocouple type has its unique combination of metals, and this determines its sensitivity, temperature range, and accuracy.

By measuring the voltage generated by the thermocouple, it is possible to correlate it back to the temperature difference between the hot and cold junctions. Since the cold junction temperature can often be assumed or measured separately, the voltage output of the thermocouple can be used to accurately determine the temperature at the hot junction.

Types of Thermocouple

The thermocouple is defined by the hot junction formed between two metals exhibiting different properties. The two dissimilar metals used to manufacture a thermocouple are referred to as the positive and negative legs. The combination of metals chosen for these legs determines the type of thermocouple.

Primarily, thermocouples are of 8 types-

• B-Type 

Type-B thermocouple is made from the combination of Platinum (6% Rhodium) and Platinum (30% Rhodium). They exhibit a temperature range between 1370 degree Celsius to 1700 degree Celsius. They are commonly used in industries and processes that involve extremely high temperatures, such as in certain types of furnaces, kilns, and high-temperature ovens. Their ability to withstand and accurately measure extreme temperatures makes them valuable in these specialized applications. One of the main advantages of Type B thermocouples is their stability and resistance to drift over time. They are less susceptible to grain growth, which can affect the accuracy of temperature measurements

• E-Type 

Type-E thermocouples are composed of two dissimilar alloys: Chromel (an alloy of nickel and chromium), and Constantan (an alloy of copper and nickel). They are designed to measure temperatures in the range of 0 degrees Celsius to 870 degrees Celsius. They are known for their excellent stability and resistance to oxidation in various atmospheres. They can be used in inert environments and are suitable for many industrial applications where precise temperature measurements are required. However, they are sensitive to sulphur-containing atmospheres and may be affected by the presence of sulphurous environments. In such cases, they need supervision and protection to prevent potential inaccuracies caused by the interaction with sulphur compounds. This type is commonly used in industries including power plants, petrochemical, and food processing, as well as research and scientific applications.

• J-Type

Type J thermocouples are made by combining two different metals: Iron and Constantan. They are designed to measure temperatures in the range of 0 degrees Celsius to 760 degrees Celsius. They are well-suited for vacuum or inert environments due to their stability and resistance to oxidation in such conditions. They are commonly used in many industrial and scientific applications, including in research labs, food processing, and some low to medium-temperature industrial processes. However, it is important to note that the lifespan of Type J thermocouples can be reduced when exposed to extremely high temperatures. Type J thermocouples offer good accuracy and sensitivity in their operating temperature range, but they may not be ideal for extremely high-temperature environments where other thermocouples types with higher temperature ranges, such as Type K or Type N.

• K-Type

Type K thermocouples are composed of two different alloys: Chromel – for the positive leg and Alumel – for the negative leg. They are one of the most common thermocouple types. They have a temperature range that spans from approximately 0 degrees Celsius to 1260 degrees Celsius. They are well suited for use in both oxidizing and neutral environments, making them versatile and applicable in various industries. One essential characteristic of Type K thermocouples is that they can generate an EMF (electromotive force) variation below 982 degrees Celsius. Hence, they are not used in highly reducing or inert environments at temperatures below this threshold, as it may lead to inaccurate readings.

• N-Type 

Type-N thermocouple is made by combining Nicrosil (an alloy of nickel, chromium, and silicon) for the positive leg and Nisil (an alloy of nickel and silicon) for the negative leg. They are specifically designed to measure temperatures in the range of 650 degrees Celsius to 1260 degrees Celsius. One major advantage of Type N thermocouples is their ability to offer high resistance to degradation due to factors like “green rot” and hysteresis. Green rot refers to a condition in certain thermocouples where the materials undergo degradation and result in measurement inaccuracies over time. Type N thermocouples are less susceptible to this issue, contributing to their stability and reliability in temperature measurements.

• R-Type

Type-R thermocouples are made by combining Platinum (13% Rhodium) for the positive leg and pure platinum for the negative leg. They are designed to measure temperatures in the range of 870 degrees Celsius to 1450 degrees Celsius. They are known for their high accuracy and stability in high-temperature environments. The addition of Rhodium in the positive leg enhances their temperature range and performance. They are majorly used in critical industrial processes, including in sulphur recovery units, where precise temperature measurements are crucial for safety and efficiency.

• S-Type

Type S thermocouples are made by combining Platinum (10% Rhodium) for the positive leg and pure Platinum for the negative leg. They are specifically designed to measure temperatures in the range of 980 degrees Celsius to 1450 degrees Celsius. This temperature range makes them suitable for a variety of high-temperature applications. The addition of Rhodium in the positive leg enhances the thermocouple’s performance and increases its temperature capability compared to type B and Type r thermocouples.

• T-Type

This type of thermocouple is composed of Copper for the positive leg and Constantan for the negative leg. They are specifically designed to measure temperatures in the range of -200 degrees Celsius to 370 degrees Celsius. They are known for their wide temperature range and excellent performance in low to medium-temperature applications. They are commonly used in various industries and scientific settings. One major advantage of Type T thermocouples is their ability to operate in various atmospheric conditions. They can be used in oxidizing, inert, and vacuum environments. Also, they do not corrode in moist atmospheres, which makes them suitable for applications where moisture or humidity is present.

Application Areas of Thermocouples

Thermocouples are widely used as temperature-sensing devices due to their robustness, reliability, versatility, and wide temperature range capabilities. They find numerous applications across various industries and scientific fields. Some significant application areas of thermocouples include-

1. Industrial Processes – Thermocouples are extensively used in industries like petrochemical, chemical, metalworking, glass manufacturing, and cement production for temperature monitoring and process control. They help ensure that the processes run at the desired temperatures and avoid any potential damage or safety risks.
2. HVAC Systems – Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems use thermocouples for temperature regulation. They help control heating and cooling systems to maintain a comfortable and consistent indoor climate.
3. Food Industry – Thermocouples monitor and control temperatures to ensure food safety during storage, processing, and transportation.
4. Power Plants – In power generation facilities, thermocouples are used to monitor the temperature of the steam and other fluids, ensuring the efficient operation of turbines and boilers.
5. Automotive Industry – Thermocouples are employed in automotive engines to measure exhaust gas temperature and optimize fuel efficiency and emissions.
6. Aerospace – In aircraft and space exploration, thermocouples are used to monitor critical components’ temperatures and ensure safe operation.
7. Research and Laboratories – Thermocouples are commonly used in scientific research, laboratories, and experimental setups for precise temperature measurements.
8. Medical applications– In medical devices and equipment, thermocouples are used for temperature monitoring in incubators, sterilizers, and diagnostic instruments.
9. Environmental monitoring – Thermocouples are employed in weather stations and environmental monitoring equipment to measure air and soil temperatures.
10. Furnaces and ovens – Thermocouples are essential for temperature control and safety in high-temperature furnaces and industrial ovens.
11. Energy-efficient systems – Thermocouples are used in various energy-efficient applications, such as solar water heaters and geothermal systems.
12. Automotive testing – In automotive testing and development, thermocouples are used to measure temperature profiles and performance of various vehicle components.

These applications are just a few areas, thermocouples are used in many other diverse ways. Their wide range of temperature capabilities, durability, and cost-effectiveness make them one of the most popular temperature sensors across various industries and scientific domains.

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The concept of thermistors was born in 1833, when Michael Faraday, an English physicist, and chemist, while reporting on the semiconductor behaviour of silver sulphide, noticed that the silver sulphide’s resistance decreased with increasing temperature. This discovery later led to the commercial manufacturing of thermistors in the 1930s.

What is a Thermistor

Thermally sensitive resistor, thermistor is a semi-conductor type of resistor that exhibits a precise change in resistance over the temperature change. They are part of a larger group of passive components. They possess greater resistance than conducting materials, but lower resistance than insulating materials.

The term “thermistor” is an amalgamation of the words “thermal” and “resistor”. They are also defined as thermally sensitive resistors whose resistance is dependent on temperature. They are made of metallic oxides, pressed into a bead, disk, or cylindrical shape, and then encapsulated with an impermeable material like epoxy or glass. The relationship between a thermistor’s resistance and its temperature is highly dependent on the materials used in its composition. The precise ratio of the composite material governs its resistance/temperature curve.

Thermistors come in several common configurations. The three most commonly employed are-

1. Hermetically sealed flexible thermistor (HSTH series)
2. Bolt-on/washer type
3. Self-adhesive surface-mount type

Thermistors are highly accurate (ranging from +-0.05 degree Celsius to +-1.5 degree Celsius), but only have a limited temperature range that is within 50 degrees Celsius of the base temperature. The working temperature range for most thermistors is between 0 degrees Celsius to 100-degree Celsius. Thermistors’ major use is in measuring the temperature of a device. In a controlled environment, a thermistor is a small but important part of a larger system.

Thermistor – Working Principle

Thermistor works on the simple principle of change in resistance due to the change in temperature. The thermistor has a non-linear resistance temperature curve and cannot be characterized by a single coefficient. This means the resistance of a thermistor decreases with the increase in temperature. The thermistor starts self-heating its elements, and its resistance value is changed concerning the temperature change, once the ambient temperature changes.

When current flows through a thermistor, it generates heat, which in turn raises the temperature of the thermistor. In case the thermistor is used to measure the temperature of the environment, this heating may cause a significant error, also known as an observer effect.

Types of Thermistors

Like all resistors, thermistors resist the electric current. The Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) and Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) are the two major types of thermistors that are widely used in temperature-sensing applications.

• Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC)

In NTC-type thermistors, resistance decreases with an increase in temperature. They are made from semiconductor materials with conductivity between electrical and non-electrical conductors. When a component heats up, electrons are loosened from the lattice atoms. As temperature increases, a thermistor transfer electricity easily and effectively. It is to be noted though, the way of conduction of NTC thermistors varies with the type of material used in their manufacturing. Depending on the temperature range to be measured, the material of the thermistor is decided.

• Germanium – 1 kelvin (K) to 100 kelvin
• Silicon – up to 250 K
• Metallic Oxide – 200 K to 700 K

To measure higher temperature ranges, thermistors are manufactured using aluminium oxide, beryllium oxide, zirconium dioxide, dysprosium oxide, etc. NTC thermistors are available in various sizes to fit applications. The glass-encapsulated NTC thermistors are completely sealed to eliminate any possibility of reading errors. Their encapsulation makes them useful for severe environmental conditions. They have an operating range of -67 degrees Fahrenheit to 392 degrees Fahrenheit. The NTC thermistors are accurate, have a quick response time, and are very convenient for placement.

• Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC)

The resistance in the PTC thermistor increases with an increase in temperature. PTC thermistors have two main variants – one which shows a linear increase in the resistance known as silicon, while the other known as switching demonstrates sudden changes in resistance. Switching the PTC thermistor is non-linear. Their resistance initially falls a little with an increase in temperature. Once the temperature reaches a certain level, the resistance increases exponentially which makes it ideal for safe and protective use. They are made from polycrystalline material, such as – barium carbonate or titanium oxide, silica, or manganese. The Silistor PTC thermistors are linear and have a semiconductor as their base material. Most PTC thermistors have lead wires, but also come in chip form, and are found in various temperature-sensing devices and equipment.

Application Areas of Thermistors

Thermistors have diverse applications ranging from temperature compensation to temperature measurement, temperature control, and Inrush current limiting. Let us closely look into various applications of PTC and NTC-type thermistors-

• PTC Type Thermistors

1. As a current-limiting device for circuit protection.
2. As timers in the degaussing coil circuit of most RT displays
3. As heaters in the automotive industry provide additional heat inside the cabin with a diesel engine or heat diesel in cold climates before engine injection.
4. In crystal oscillators for temperature compensation, medical equipment temperature control, and industrial automation.
5. To prevent current hogging in electronic circuits
6. To prevent thermal runaway in electronic circuits
7. An electrically actuated wax motor provides the heat necessary to expand the wax
8. In temperature-compensated synthesizer voltage-controlled oscillators

• NTC Type Thermistors

1. As a thermometer for low-temperature measurements
2. To monitor the temperature of an incubator
3. As an inrush current limiter device in power supply circuits
4. In the food handling and processing industry, for food storage systems and food preparation
5. Point Sensing to achieve high accuracy for specific points, such as laser diode die
6. For measurement of the temperature profile inside the sealed captivity of a convective
7. Thermistor Probe Assemblies offer protection for the sensor in harsh environments
8. Throughout the consumer appliance industry for measuring temperature

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An RTD stands for “Resistance Temperature Detector”. It is a type of temperature sensor used to measure temperature by correlating the resistance of the RTD element with temperature changes. RTDs are commonly used in various industrial, scientific, and commercial applications where accurate and precise temperature measurements are required.

The RTD element is typically made of pure platinum wire wound into a coil or deposited on a ceramic substrate. Platinum is chosen due to its excellent stability, repeatability, and linearity over a wide temperature range. The resistance of the RTD element increases with temperature in a predictable and nearly linear manner, allowing for accurate temperature readings.

RTDs are known for their high accuracy and stability, making them popular choices in various industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, food and beverage, and environmental monitoring. They are commonly used in temperature measurement devices and systems, and they often interface with data loggers, control systems, and other instruments to monitor and control processes where the temperature is critical.

In RTD devices, different metals are used as the sensing element, and each metal exhibits its unique resistance-temperature characteristics. The relationship between the resistance and temperature is what defines the resistance-temperature characteristic of the RTD.

The three most common types of RTD elements based on different metals are-

• Platinum RTD (PT100 or PT1000)
• Nickel RTD
• Copper RTD

It is worth noting that RTDs are typically more expensive than other temperature sensors like thermocouples and thermistors, but their accuracy and stability make them an ideal choice for critical temperature measurements where precision is paramount.

RTD – Working Principle

The working principle of an RTD is based on the predictable and linear change in electrical resistance of a material with temperature. The mechanism can be summarised in these steps –

Sensing Element – The heart of an RTD is the sensing element, which is typically made of a thin wire or film of pure platinum. The platinum wire is wound into a coil or deposited as a thin film on a ceramic substrate to increase its surface area.

Electrical Resistance – At a reference temperature (usually 0 degrees Celsius or 25 degrees Celsius), the RTD has a known and calibrated resistance value. For a standard platinum RTD, this resistance is typically 100 ohms at 0 degrees Celsius, and it follows a defined resistance-temperature curve.

Temperature Change – When the RTD is exposed to a change in temperature, the temperature of the sensing element also changes.

Resistance Change – As the temperature changes, the electrical resistance of the platinum wire changes predictably and linearly. The resistance increases as the temperature rises and decreases as the temperature falls.

Measurement – The change in resistance is measured using a bridge circuit or a Wheatstone bridge configuration. By measuring the resistance accurately, the temperature of the RTD can be determined with high precision.

Calibration – RTDs are calibrated against known temperature points to establish an accurate resistance-temperature relationship. The calibration data is used to convert the measured resistance into temperature values.

Types of Resistance Temperature Detector

There are several types of RTDs (Resistance Temperature Detectors), each with different configurations and construction methods. The main types of RTDs include-

1. Wire-Wound RTDs – These are the most common type of RTDs and consist of a coil of fine platinum wire wound around a ceramic or glass core. The wire’s resistance changes with temperature, providing a reliable and accurate temperature measurement.
2. Thin-Film RTDs – In this type, a thin layer of platinum is deposited on a ceramic or glass substrate. Thin-film RTDs are known for their fast response times and compact size, making them suitable for various applications.
3. Coiled RTDs – They have a similar construction to wire-wound RTDs but are wound into a smaller, more compact coil, which allows for quicker response times and lower thermal mass.
4. Surface-Mount RTDs – These RTDs are designed for surface mounting directly onto the surface of the object being measured. They are commonly used in electronics and PCB applications.
5. Probe RTDs – Probe RTDs feature a long, slender probe that can be inserted into liquids, gases, or other materials for temperature measurement. They are widely used in industrial processes and environmental monitoring.
6. Mineral-Insulated RTDs – These RTDs consist of a platinum wire encased in a metal sheath, often made of stainless steel, providing excellent mechanical protection and ruggedness. These RTDs are commonly used in harsh environments and high-pressure applications.
7. Glass-Coated RTDs – In this type, the platinum wire is coated with a thin layer of glass for insulation. Glass-coated RTDs are used ins specialized applications requiring resistance to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.
8. Thin-Film Glass RTDs – These RTDs are made by depositing a thin layer of platinum on a glass substrate, providing excellent resistance to environmental factors and mechanical stress.

Each type has its advantages and is chosen based on the specific requirements of the application, such as accuracy, response time, environmental conditions, and budget constraints. The most common RTD used is the wire-wound PT100 (platinum 100 ohms at 0 degrees Celsius) due to its widespread availability and high accuracy.

Application Areas of RTDs

RTDs are widely used in various industries and applications due to their accuracy, stability, and reliability. Some of the most common application areas of RTDs include-

• Industrial Processes– RTDs are extensively used in industrial processes for temperature measurement and control. They can monitor temperatures in chemical processing, oil and gas refining, pharmaceutical, food processing, and other industrial operations.
• HVAC Systems – RTDs are employed in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems for temperature sensing and control, ensuring comfortable and energy-efficient indoor environments.
• Laboratory and Scientific Research – RTDs play a crucial role in laboratories and scientific research where precise temperature measurements are required for experiments, studies, and calibration of other instruments
• Automotive – In the automotive industry, RTDs are used to monitor engine temperature, exhaust gas temperature, and other critical parameters for engine performance and emission control.
• Aerospace and Aviation – RTDs are utilized in aerospace and aviation applications to monitor the temperature in aircraft engines, airframe components, and other critical systems.
• Power Generation – In power plants, RTDs are employed to monitor temperatures in turbines, boilers, and various power generation equipment.
• Environmental Monitoring – RTDs are used in monitoring systems to measure temperatures in weather stations, climate research, and ecological studies.
• Food Safety and Processing – In the food industry, RTDs are utilized to monitor and control temperatures during food processing and storage to ensure food safety and quality.
• Medical and Healthcare – RTDs are employed in medical devices and equipment, such as patient monitoring systems, incubators, and sterilization processes.
• Cryogenic Applications – RTDs can accurately measure temperatures in extremely low-temperature environments, making them suitable for cryogenic applications like liquefied natural gas storage and research in cryogenics.
• Energy Management – RTDs are utilized in energy management systems to monitor temperatures in buildings, industrial facilities, and power distribution systems.

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New Remote Electrical Tilt Antennas Enable Instant Adjustment of Coverage

IRVINE, Calif. − L-com, an Infinite Electronics brand and a supplier of wired and wireless connectivity products, has introduced a line of remote-electrical-tilt (RET) sector and omnidirectional antennas. The antenna beams in these products can be adjusted remotely and continually to react to changing traffic patterns and environmental conditions. Such a capability benefits communication networks that require continuous wireless signal optimization. These include mobile, WISP, Wi-Fi, GSM, UMTS, LTE, 5G, public safety, smart cities and industrial networks.

The new products are offered in two versions. The 694 MHz to 960 MHz RET omnidirectional antenna has 11 dBi gain, 2-14° RET, rooftop mounting and two connectors. The 1710 to 2690 MHz RET sector antennas have 18 dBi gain, 2-12° or 0-10° RET, down-tilt mounting brackets, and options of two, four or six connectors.

Both the 694-960 MHz and 1710-2690 MHz versions of the RET antennas share many features. All are 45-degree slant and can be manipulated using a handheld controller or a base station radio with integrated AISG 2.0. This enables the tilt angle of the antenna’s coverage pattern to be adjusted remotely, optimizing the coverage and signal propagation without having to physically reposition the antenna.

All the new RET sector and omni antennas minimize interference with low-PIM 4.3-10 female connectors rated at either -150 dBc or -153 dBc. They both have a maximum input power of 250 watts and a maximum input VSWR of 1.5:1. In addition, the antennas’ fiberglass radome construction enables them to withstand harsh conditions.

The 1710-2690 MHz antennas have multiple bands operating − from 1710-1990 MHz with 17.6 dBi gain, 1920-2200 MHz with 17.8 dBi gain, 2200-2490 MHz with 18.2 dBi gain, and 2490-2690 MHz with 18 dBi gain.

“Today’s crowded airwaves make it increasingly harder to get clear wireless signals over your entire coverage area day and night,” said Senior Product Line Manager Kevin Hietpas. “Our new RET sector and omni antennas give you precise beam steering, improved coverage and signal quality, and the flexibility to quickly adapt to your evolving network requirements.”

L-com’s new 694 MHz to 960 MHz RET omnidirectional antenna and 1710 to 2690 MHz RET sector antennas are in stock and available for immediate shipment.

About L-com:

L-com, a leading manufacturer of wired and wireless connectivity products, offers a wide range of solutions and unrivaled customer service for the electronics and data communications industries. The company’s product portfolio includes cable assemblies, connectors, adapters, antennas, enclosures, surge protectors and more. Headquartered in North Andover, Mass., L-com is ISO 9001:2015-certified and many of its products are UL® recognized. L-com is an Infinite Electronics brand.

About Infinite Electronics:

Based in Irvine, Calif., Infinite Electronics is a global electronics supplier offering a broad range of components, assemblies and wired/wireless connectivity solutions to the aerospace/defense, industrial, government, consumer electronics, instrumentation, medical and telecommunications markets. Its brands include Pasternack, Fairview Microwave, L-com, MilesTek, ShowMeCables, NavePoint, INC Installs, Integra Optics, PolyPhaser, Transtector, KP Performance Antennas, RadioWaves and Aiconics. Infinite serves its customers with deep technical expertise and support. Its broad inventory is available for immediate shipment, fulfilling unplanned demand for engineers and technical buyers. Infinite is a Warburg Pincus portfolio company.

The post L-com Rolls Out New RET Sector and Omnidirectional Antennas appeared first on ELE Times.