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Editor’s Note: This DI is a two-part series.

Part 1 shows how to make an oscillator with a pitch that is proportional to a control voltage.

Part 2 shows how to modify the circuit for use with higher supply voltages, implement it using discrete parts, and modify it to closely approximate a sine wave.

In Part 1, we saw how to make an oscillator whose pitch, as opposed to frequency, can be made proportional to a control voltage. In this second part, we’ll look at some alternative ways of arranging things for other possible applications.

Wow the engineering world with your unique design: Design Ideas Submission Guide

To start with, Figure 1 shows a revised version of the basic circuit, built with B-series CMOS to allow rail voltages of up to 18 or 20 V rather than the nominal 5 V of the original.

Figure 1 A variant on Part 1’s Figure 2, allowing operation with a supply of up to 20 V.

Apart from U2’s change from a 74HC74 to a CD/HEF4013B, the main difference is in U1. With a 12 V rail, TL062/072/082s and even LM358s and MC1458s all worked well, as did an LM393 comparator with an output pull-up resistor. The control voltage’s span increases with supply voltage, but remains at ~±20% of Vs. Note that because we’re only sensing within that central portion, the restricted input ranges of those devices was not a problem.

Something that was a problem, even with the original 5-V MCP6002, was a frequent inability to begin oscillating. Unlike the 74HC74, a 4013 has active-high R and S inputs, so U1a’s polarity must be flipped. It tends to start up with its output high, which effectively locks U2a into an all-1s condition, forcing Q1 permanently on. That explains the need for R5/C5/Q2. If (when!) the sticky condition occurs, Q2 will turn on, shorting C2 so that Q1 can turn off and oscillation commence. A reverse diode across R5 proved unnecessary at the low frequencies involved.

This could also be built using the extra constant-current sink, shown in Part 1’s Figure 4, but then U1 would need to have rail-to-rail inputs.

This is an extension of the first version that I tried, which was built without logic ICs. It’s neat and works, but U1a could only output pulses, which needed stretching to be useful. (Using a flip-flop guaranteed the duty cycle, while the spare section, used as a monostable, generated much better-defined reset pulses.) The circuit shown in Figure 2 works around this and can be built for pretty much any rail voltage you choose, as long as U1 and the MOSFETS are chosen appropriately.

Figure 2 This all-discrete version (apart from the op-amps) uses a second section to produce an output having a duty cycle close to 50%.

U1b’s circuitry is a duplicate of U1a’s but with half the time-constant. It’s reset in the same way and its control voltage is the same, so its output pulses have half the width of a full cycle, giving a square wave (or nearly so). Ideally, Q1 and Q3 should be matched, with C3 exactly half of C1 rather than the practical 47n shown. R7 is only necessary if the rail voltage exceeds the gate-source limits for Q1/3. (ZVP3306As are rated at 20 V max.)

The final variation—see Figure 3—goes back to using logic and has a reasonably sinusoidal output, should you need that.

Figure 3 Here the oscillator runs 16 times faster than the output frequency. Dividing the pulse rate down using a twisted-ring counter with resistors on its 8 outputs gives a stepped approximation to a sine wave.

The oscillator itself runs at 16 times the output frequency. The pulse-generating monostable multivibrator (MSMV) now uses a pair of cross-coupled gates, and not only feeds Q1 but also clocks an 8-bit shift register (implemented here as two 4-bit ones), whose final output is inverted and fed back to its D input. That’s known as a twisted-ring or Johnson counter and is a sort of digital Möbius band. As the signal is shifted past each Q output, it has 8 high bits followed by 8 low ones, repeated indefinitely. U2c not only performs the inversion but also delivers a brief, solid high to U3a’s D input at start-up to initialize the register.

U2 and U3 are shown as high-voltage CMOS parts to allow for operation at much more than 5 V. Again, U1 would then need changing, perhaps to a rail-to-rail input (RRI) part if the extra current source is added. 74HC132s and 74HC4015s (or ’HC164s) work fine at ~5 V.

The Q outputs feed a common point through resistors selected to give an output which, though stepped, is close to a sine wave, as Figure 4 should make clear. R4 sets the output level and C4 provides some filtering. (Different sets of resistors can give different tone colors. For example, if they are all equal, the output (if stepped) will be a good triangle wave.)

Figure 4 Waveforms illustrating the operation of Figure 3’s circuit when it’s delivering ~500 Hz.

The steps correspond to the 15th and 17th harmonics, which, though somewhat filtered by C4/R4, are still at ~-45 dB. To reduce them, add a simple two-pole Sallen–Key filter, like that in Figure 5, which also shows the filtered spectrum for an output of around 500 Hz.

Figure 5 A suitable output filter for adding to Figure 3, and the resulting spectrum.

The 2nd and 3rd harmonics are still at around -60 dB, but the others are now well below -70 dB, so we can claim around -57 dB or 0.16% THD, which will be worse at 250 Hz and better at 2 kHz. This approach won’t work too well if you want the full 4–5-octave span (extra current sink) unless the filter is made tunable: perhaps a couple of resistive opto-isolators combined with R14/15, driven by another voltage-controlled current source?

All that is interesting, but rather pointless. After all, the main purpose of this design idea was to make useful audible tones, not precision sine waves, which sound boring anyway. But a secondary purpose should be to push things as far as possible, while having fun experimenting!

Given a pitch-linear tone source, it seemed silly not to try make some kind of musical thingy using a tappable linear resistance. A couple of feet, or about 10kΩ’s-worth, of Teledeltos chart paper (which I always knew would come in handy, as the saying goes) wrapped round a length of plastic pipe with a smooth, shiny croc clip for the tap or slider (plus a 330k pull-down) worked quite well, allowing tunes to be picked out as on a Stylophone or an air guitar. Electro-punk lives! Though it’s not so much “Eat your heart out, Jimi Hendrix” as “Get those earplugs in”.

—Nick Cornford built his first crystal set at 10, and since then has designed professional audio equipment, many datacomm products, and technical security kit. He has at last retired. Mostly. Sort of.

Related Content

• A pitch-linear VCO, part 1: Getting it going
• VCO using the TL431 reference
• Ultra-low distortion oscillator, part 1: how not to do it.
• How to control your impulses—part 1
• Squashed triangles: sines, but with teeth?
• Simple 5-component oscillator works below 0.8V
• A two transistor sine wave oscillator

The post A pitch-linear VCO, part 2: taking it further appeared first on EDN.

Bomber jets play a crucial role in modern warfare, offering strategic deterrence, precision strike capabilities, and unparalleled aerial dominance. With advancements in stealth technology, electronic warfare, and long-range missile systems, the world’s leading air forces operate some of the most advanced bomber aircraft ever built. This article highlights the top 10 bomber jets based on speed, payload capacity, stealth, and combat effectiveness.

1. Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider (USA)

Overview:

The B-21 Raider is the newest strategic stealth bomber under development for the U.S. Air Force. Designed to replace the B-2 Spirit, it is expected to be the backbone of America’s bomber fleet.

Key Features:

• Stealth Technology: Advanced radar-evading capabilities
• Payload Capacity: Estimated 15,000-20,000 kg
• Range: Over 9,000 km
• Multi-role Capabilities: Can carry nuclear and conventional weapons
• AI and Network-Centric Warfare Integration

2. Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit (USA)

Overview:

The B-2 Spirit is the world’s first operational stealth bomber, designed for deep penetration missions in heavily defended airspace.

Key Features:

• Radar Absorbent Materials: Minimizes radar cross-section
• Payload Capacity: 23,000 kg
• Range: 11,000 km without refueling
• Precision Strike Capability: Advanced targeting systems

3. Tupolev Tu-160M (Russia)

Overview:

Known as the “White Swan,” the Tu-160M is the fastest and heaviest supersonic bomber in the world. The modernized Tu-160M variant features new avionics and weapons systems.

Key Features:

• Speed: Mach 2.05
• Payload Capacity: 40,000 kg
• Range: 12,300 km
• Modernization: Equipped with new digital avionics and hypersonic missile capabilities

4. Rockwell B-1B Lancer (USA)

Overview:

The B-1B Lancer is a variable-sweep wing bomber designed for supersonic speeds and low-altitude penetration.

Key Features:

• Speed: Mach 1.25
• Payload Capacity: 34,000 kg
• Range: 9,400 km
• Electronic Warfare Suite: Advanced countermeasures for survival in contested airspace

5. Xian H-20 (China)

Overview:

China’s upcoming H-20 stealth bomber aims to rival the B-2 Spirit, with cutting-edge stealth technology and long-range capabilities.

Key Features:

• Stealth Design: Similar to B-2 and B-21
• Range: Estimated 8,500 km
• Payload Capacity: Expected 20,000-25,000 kg
• Strategic Nuclear and Conventional Strike Capabilities

6. Tupolev Tu-95MS (Russia)

Overview:

Nicknamed the “Bear,” the Tu-95MS is a long-range, turboprop-powered strategic bomber known for its efficiency and extended operational life.

Key Features:

• Speed: 925 km/h (Mach 0.8)
• Range: 15,000 km with aerial refueling
• Payload Capacity: 15,000 kg
• Nuclear Cruise Missile Delivery Platform

7. Sukhoi Su-34 Fullback (Russia)

Overview:

The Su-34 is a tactical bomber with significant air-to-ground strike capabilities, often referred to as a “fighter-bomber.”

Key Features:

• Speed: Mach 1.8
• Payload Capacity: 12,000 kg
• Range: 4,500 km
• Maneuverability: Fighter-like agility with bomber-level strike power

8. Boeing B-52H Stratofortress (USA)

Overview:

The legendary B-52H remains in service for over 70 years, known for its endurance and heavy payload capacity.

Key Features:

• Speed: Mach 0.85
• Range: 14,000 km without refueling
• Payload Capacity: 31,500 kg
• Versatility: Capable of carrying nuclear and conventional weapons

9. Dassault Mirage 2000D (France)

Overview:

A French multirole fighter-bomber, the Mirage 2000D specializes in precision strike missions.

Key Features:

• Speed: Mach 2.2
• Payload Capacity: 9,000 kg
• Range: 3,300 km
• Advanced Targeting Systems: Precision-guided munitions capabilities

10. Shenyang JH-7 Flying Leopard (China)

Overview:

A Chinese fighter-bomber designed for ground attack and anti-ship missions.

Key Features:

• Speed: Mach 1.75
• Payload Capacity: 9,000 kg
• Range: 3,900 km
• Naval Strike Capability: Equipped with anti-ship missiles

The evolution of bomber jets reflects the technological advancements in stealth, speed, payload capacity, and mission versatility. The upcoming B-21 Raider, China’s H-20, and modernized versions of legacy bombers continue to push the boundaries of aerial warfare. As nations invest in next-generation air combat capabilities, these bomber jets remain the backbone of strategic deterrence and global power projection.

The post Top 10 Bomber Jets in the World: The Ultimate Aerial Dominators appeared first on ELE Times.

With the increasing integration of electronics in critical applications such as automotive, healthcare, industrial automation, and consumer devices, security concerns have become paramount. “Security by Design” is a proactive approach that ensures cybersecurity is embedded into electronic systems from the conceptual stage rather than being patched later. This article explores the latest industry trends, best practices, and challenges in implementing Security by Design in electronics.

Traditional security models often rely on reactive measures, addressing vulnerabilities only after they are exploited. This approach is no longer sufficient as cyber threats become more sophisticated and widespread. Security by Design ensures that electronic systems are built with security features ingrained, reducing risks and enhancing resilience.

• Reduced Attack Surface: By incorporating security measures from the design phase, the potential vulnerabilities are minimized, making it harder for attackers to exploit weaknesses in hardware and software.
• Regulatory Compliance: Various industries are enforcing strict cybersecurity regulations, including ISO/SAE 21434 for automotive cybersecurity and IEC 62443 for industrial control systems, necessitating security integration at every development stage.
• Cost Efficiency: Fixing security flaws after deployment is significantly more expensive than incorporating security at the design level. Security by Design minimizes costly recalls, patching, and reputation damage.
• Enhanced Trust and Reliability: As users become more security-conscious, products that incorporate robust cybersecurity measures build higher trust and long-term adoption.

1. Hardware Root of Trust (RoT)

A secure foundation starts with hardware. Modern electronic devices incorporate Root of Trust (RoT) mechanisms to provide immutable trust anchors. These security elements ensure that the device only executes authenticated firmware and software components.

• Secure Boot: This process ensures that only digitally signed and verified firmware is executed, preventing boot-level malware injections. Secure Boot is implemented using cryptographic techniques such as RSA-2048 or ECC-based signing.
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM): TPM chips provide a secure vault for cryptographic keys, ensuring that sensitive credentials, digital certificates, and passwords are protected against tampering or extraction.
• Physical Unclonable Functions (PUF): PUF technology leverages the inherent variations in silicon manufacturing to generate unique, unclonable cryptographic identities for devices, making hardware-level authentication robust.

2. Secure Firmware Development

Firmware is the bridge between hardware and software, making it a prime target for attackers. Implementing security best practices in firmware development mitigates risks.

• Secure Coding Standards: Adopting standards such as MISRA C (automotive) and CERT C (embedded systems) reduces common vulnerabilities like buffer overflows and memory corruption.
• Firmware Signing and Authentication: Digitally signed firmware ensures that unauthorized modifications or tampered firmware are rejected by the device, maintaining integrity.
• Over-the-Air (OTA) Secure Updates: Secure update mechanisms use cryptographic verification (e.g., ECDSA signatures) to prevent rollback attacks and unauthorized firmware injections.

3. Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA)

Zero Trust is a cybersecurity model that assumes no implicit trust within a system and requires continuous verification.

• Continuous Authentication: Devices and users must authenticate at every stage, employing multi-factor authentication (MFA) and cryptographic validation.
• Micro-Segmentation: Network segmentation isolates sensitive components from untrusted environments, limiting the potential spread of malware and unauthorized access.
• Real-Time Anomaly Detection: AI-powered security analytics continuously monitor system behavior to detect deviations from normal operation, triggering alerts for potential breaches.

4. End-to-End Encryption

Data security is crucial in modern electronics, especially for IoT and cloud-connected devices. Encryption ensures confidentiality and integrity in data transmission and storage.

• TLS 1.3 for Secure Communication: This cryptographic protocol eliminates weak encryption algorithms, enforcing strong cipher suites for protecting data-in-transit.
• AES-256 Encryption for Data-at-Rest: Sensitive device information is protected using hardware-based encryption modules to mitigate unauthorized data extraction.
• Quantum-Safe Cryptography: With quantum computing on the horizon, post-quantum cryptographic algorithms like CRYSTALS-Kyber and CRYSTALS-Dilithium are being integrated into security frameworks to future-proof devices.

5. Supply Chain Security

A secure product is only as strong as its weakest component. Supply chain attacks have increased, necessitating rigorous vetting of components and firmware sources.

• Supplier Security Audits: Regular assessment of component suppliers ensures that they adhere to security best practices.
• Secure Hardware Provenance: Implementing blockchain-based tracking of hardware components provides verifiable authenticity and prevents counterfeiting.
• Regular Risk Assessments: Threat modeling of supply chain processes ensures early detection of vulnerabilities and risk mitigation strategies.

1. Automotive Security

The rise of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and autonomous driving has made automotive security a top priority. OEMs are adopting standards like ISO/SAE 21434 and UNECE WP.29 to enforce cybersecurity in connected vehicles.

• Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS): These systems actively monitor in-vehicle networks for anomalous activities and unauthorized access attempts.
• Secure CAN Bus Communication: Implementing MACsec encryption protects automotive communication from malicious interference and spoofing.
• AI-Powered Anomaly Detection: Machine learning algorithms analyze driving patterns and vehicle behaviors to detect cybersecurity threats.

2. Industrial IoT (IIoT) Security

Industry 4.0 has led to an increased attack surface for industrial control systems, necessitating strong security measures.

• Secure OT-IT Convergence: Segregating operational technology (OT) from traditional IT networks prevents industrial cyber-espionage and ransomware attacks.
• Firmware Integrity Attestation: Hardware-level security checks validate firmware integrity before execution to prevent tampering.
• AI-Driven Predictive Threat Analytics: AI models analyze historical attack data to predict and prevent cyber threats before they occur.

3. Chip-Level Security Advancements

Semiconductor companies are embedding advanced security features into SoCs and microcontrollers to enhance device security.

• Arm TrustZone & RISC-V PMP: These security architectures enable hardware isolation for secure execution environments.
• Intel SGX & AMD SEV: Secure enclave technologies protect sensitive computations from OS-level threats.
• Post-Quantum Cryptographic Accelerators: Hardware-integrated PQC support ensures future resilience against quantum computing threats.

• Balancing Security and Performance: Stronger security measures often introduce computational overhead. Leveraging cryptographic hardware accelerators helps maintain efficiency.
• Cost Constraints: Security implementations can increase development costs. However, long-term savings from preventing security breaches outweigh initial expenses.
• Evolving Threat Landscape: Cyber threats constantly evolve, requiring continuous security updates and patching. AI-driven security analytics improve proactive threat detection.
• Compliance and Regulatory Challenges: Adhering to global security standards requires robust security frameworks, structured security testing, and lifecycle management strategies.

1. AI-Driven Security

AI is transforming cybersecurity by enabling real-time anomaly detection and automated threat mitigation.

• Adaptive Authentication: AI models analyze user behavior to detect suspicious access attempts.
• Behavioral Anomaly Detection: ML algorithms detect deviations from normal device operations to identify cyber threats.
• Automated Security Patch Deployment: AI-driven updates help close vulnerabilities without manual intervention.

2. Blockchain for IoT Security

Blockchain enhances trust and traceability in device security frameworks.

• Decentralized Identity Management: Prevents unauthorized device authentication.
• Secure Firmware Provenance Tracking: Ensures software authenticity and tamper-proof updates.
• Tamper-Proof Transaction Logs: Protects against log manipulation and fraud.

Security by Design is no longer optional—it is imperative for safeguarding electronic systems in an era of increasing cyber threats. As cyberattacks grow in complexity, integrating security from the outset ensures resilience, regulatory compliance, and trustworthiness. Future trends like AI-driven security, quantum-resistant cryptography, and blockchain-based trust mechanisms will further strengthen the security landscape, making it crucial for industries to adopt proactive cybersecurity strategies today.

The post Security by Design in Electronics: A Proactive Approach to Cybersecurity appeared first on ELE Times.

Combining the comfort of automation, customisation, intelligence and energy efficiency – the lighting industry is erupting with various innovations. Organised by Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India, LED Expo Mumbai is India’s only dedicated platform covering everything light. With 200+ exhibitors featuring about 6,000+ products, the upcoming edition of LED Expo Mumbai will be held from 3 – 5 April 2025 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, organised by Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India.

LED Expo Mumbai will present a unique amalgamation of LED lighting solutions that not only serves the lighting industry but also delves deep into relatively new concepts such as smart lights, LEDs for design and décor, LEDs for atmospheric lighting and wellness, and problem-solving innovations such as biomimicry in lighting applications. The upcoming edition has registered growth from the electrical segment with 20+ exhibitors.

Crucial industry highlights surfaced from an exhibitor survey conducted with those participating in the upcoming edition, highlighted the following:

• Architectural projects and commercial buildings have shown a greater adoption of smart lighting and automation products. However, the story changes in tier-2 and tier-3 cities where the adoption of such products is on a slower pace. Common hindrances like supply chain, power outages, etc., are challenging the large-scale adoption.
• Exhibitors also pointed out that many components are sourced internationally.
• To make the LED lighting industry self-reliant, government schemes are encouraging the localisation of components and high-quality production of LED products. India’s LED lighting industry is growing steadily with key initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission and the growing demand for housing in India.
• It is also active in installing solar-based LED lights under the rural electrification programme, especially in the northeast

Expressing his thoughts, Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director of Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd, stated: “The Indian infrastructure landscape has witnessed remarkable growth, opening new avenues for the LED lighting industry. Beyond illumination, LED technology is revolutionising with applications such as beautification projects, indoor and outdoor decoration, wellness, street lighting and public places lighting, amongst many others. LED lights – apart from being energy efficient are becoming more brighter, keeping down the energy

consumption. I am happy to share that the LED and the lighting industry will once again unite at LED Expo Mumbai 2025 to present the innovations for the future towards which India is advancing. Over the years, we have also observed a significant rise in participation from the electrical segment, further strengthening the ecosystem.”

During the show, curated knowledge sessions will bring industry experts on the dais sharing insights from their experience in the segment.

3 April 2025 | Panel Discussion

• CXO Power Panel – Balancing Design, Innovation and Manufacturing Excellence in the Lighting Industry” by Women In Lighting, India

4 April 2025 |Technical Workshops

• Acoustic Lights” by Silence Acoustics
• Biomimicry Designs & their Impact on the environment” by Studio Black Canvas
• Intelligent LED Power Supplies: Importance of safety standards and energy saving! Achieve the 2050 net-zero carbon emission target through energy conservation
• Panel Discussionin collaboration with Indian Society of Landscape Architecture (ISOLA)

Some growing applications in India’s LED lighting industry are landscape lighting in infrastructure projects and floodlights in stadiums. These are predicted to drive the growth of the luminaires segment. As India plans to a rapid transformation with large-scale public projects. A recent report by Mordor Intelligence pointed out that the industrial and warehouse segment dominates the Indian LED lighting industry, with nearly 58% of the total indoor LED lighting market share in 2024. It also states that automotive headlights have emerged as the dominant segment in India’s automotive utility LED lighting market accounting approximately 35% market share in 2024.

The event has garnered support from the prestigious industry bodies and associations including: Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST), Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) – a unit of the Ministry of Power, Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA) – a Government of Maharashtra Institute, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), The Electric Merchants Association (EMA) and Women in Lighting India (WIL).

The upcoming event promises to display an engaging showcase of lighting solutions that are the future of connected lighting solutions, sensor-based lighting, energy-efficient lighting, landscape lighting, decorative and architectural lights and much more, influencing the professionals thoughtfully using lighting and LED products regularly. Prestigious brands like Aastha LED, Demak Italy, Power Plazzo, Network INC, Tektroniks, JN Lighting LLP (Tinge) and Zylos, among others are set to unveil their latest innovations. With this, LED Expo Mumbai will continue to elevate the experience of the exhibitors and visitors offering a dynamic marketplace for industry dialogues and future-ready solutions.

LED Expo Mumbai is a part of Messe Frankfurt’s Light + Building Technology fair portfolio, which is headlined by the biennial Light + Building event in Frankfurt, Germany.

The post Get ready for three days of luminous odyssey with LED Expo Mumbai appeared first on ELE Times.

Realizing Advanced Endpoint Vision AI While Reducing System Size and Cost with a Power-Efficient MPU that Eliminates the Need for Cooling Fans

The post Renesas Extends Mid-Class AI Processor Line-Up with RZ/V2N Integrating DRP-AI Accelerator for Smart Factories and Intelligent Cities of Tomorrow appeared first on ELE Times.

Visual security systems have evolved enormously since the days of infrared motion detectors and laser tripwires. Today, high-definition cameras stream video into local vision-processing systems. These AI-enabled surveillance cameras detect motion, isolate and identify objects, capture faces, expressions, and gestures, and may even infer the intent of people in their field of view. They record interesting videos and forward any significant events to a central security console.

Integrating AI capabilities transforms security cameras into intelligent tools to detect threats and enhance surveillance proactively. Intent inference, for example, allows security cameras to quickly predict suspicious behavior patterns in crowds, retail stores, and industrial facilities. Case in point: AI-enabled cameras can detect unattended packages, license plates, and people in real time and report them to security personnel.

According to a report from Grandview Research, due to the evolving use of AI technology and growing security concerns, the market for AI-enabled security cameras is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 18% between 2024 and 2032. This CAGR would propel the market from $7.55 billion in 2023 to $34.2 billion in 2032.

The need for compute power

Increasing sophistication demands growing computing power. While that antique motion sensor needed little more than a capacitor and a diode, real-time object and facial detection require a digital signal processor (DSP). Advanced inferences such as expression or gesture recognition need edge AI: compact, low-power neural-network accelerators.

Inferring intent may be a job for a small-language model with tens or hundreds of millions of parameters, demanding a significantly more powerful inference engine. Less obviously, this growth in functionality has profound implications for the security camera’s local non-volatile storage subsystem. Storage, capacity, performance, reliability, and security have all become essential issues.

Storage’s new role

In most embedded systems, the storage subsystem’s role is simple. It provides a non-volatile place to keep code and parameters. When the embedded system is initialized, the information is transferred to DRAM. In this use model, reading happens only on initialization and is not particularly speed sensitive. Writing occurs only when parameters are changed or code is updated and is, again, not performance sensitive.

The use case for advanced security cameras is entirely different. The storage subsystem will hold voluminous code for various tasks, the massive parameter files for neural network models, and the continuously streaming compressed video from the camera.

To manage energy consumption, designers may shut down some processors and much of the DRAM until the camera detects motion. This means the system will load code and parameter files on demand—in a hurry—just as it begins to stream video into storage. So, both latency and transfer rate are essential.

In some vast neural network models, the storage subsystem may also have to hold working data, such as the intermediate values stored in the network’s layers or parameters for layers not currently being processed. This will result in data being paged in and out of storage and parameters being loaded during execution—a very different use model from static code storage.

Storage meeting new needs

Except in scale, the storage use model in these advanced security cameras resembles less a typical embedded-system model than what goes on in an AI-tuned data center. This difference will impose new demands on the camera’s storage subsystem hardware and firmware.

The primary needs are increased capacity and speed. This responsibility falls first upon the NAND flash chips themselves. Storage designers use the latest multi-level and quad-level, stacked-cell NAND technology to get the capacity for these applications. And, of course, they choose chips with the highest speeds and lowest latencies.

However, fast NAND flash chips with terabit capacity can only meet the needs of security-camera applications if the storage controller can exploit their speed and capacity and provide the complex management and error correction these advanced chips require.

Let’s look at the storage controller, then. The controller must support the read-and-write data rates the NAND chips can sustain. And it must handle the vast address spaces of these chips. But that is just the beginning.

Storage controller’s tasks

Error correction in NAND flash technology is vital. Soft error rates and the deterioration of the chips over time make it necessary to have powerful error correction code (ECC) algorithms to recover data reliably. Just how important, however, is application dependency? A wrong pixel or two in a recorded video may be inconsequential. Neural network models can be remarkably tolerant of minor errors.

But a bad bit in executable code can turn off a camera and force a reboot. A wrong most significant bit (MSB) in a parameter at a critical point in a neural network model, especially for small-language models, can result in an incorrect inference. So, a mission-critical security camera needs powerful, end-to-end error correction. The data arriving at the system DRAM must be precisely what was initially sent to the storage subsystem.

This requirement becomes particularly interesting for advanced NAND flash chips. Each type of chip—each vendor’s process, number of logic levels per cell, and number of cells in a stack—will have its error syndromes. Ideally, the controller’s ECC algorithms will be designed for the specific NAND chips.

Aging is another issue—flash cells wear out with continued reading and writing. However, as we have seen, security cameras may almost continuously read and write storage during the camera’s lifetime. That is the worst use case for ultra-dense flash chips.

To make matters more complex, cameras are often mounted in inaccessible locations and frequently concealed, so frequent service is expensive and sometimes counterproductive (Figure 1). The video they record may be vital for safety or law-enforcement authorities long after it is recorded, so degradation over time would be a problem.

Figure 1 Managing flash cell endurance is an essential issue since cameras are often mounted in inaccessible locations. Source: Silicon Motion

The controller’s ability to distribute wear evenly across the chips, scrub the memory for errors, and apply redundant array of independent disks (RAID)-like techniques to correct the mistakes translates into system reliability and lower total cost of ownership.

To counter these threats, the storage controller must be forearmed. Provisions should be made for fast checkpoint capture, read/write locking of the flash array, and a quick, secure erase facility in case of power loss or physical damage. To blunt cyberattacks, the storage subsystem must have a secure boot process, access control, and encryption.

A design example

To appreciate the level of detail involved in this storage application, we can focus on just one feature: the hybrid zone. Some cells in a multi-level or quad-level NAND storage can store only a single bit of data instead of two or four bits. The cells used as single level are called hybrid zones. They will have significantly shorter read and write latencies than if they were being used to store multiple bits per cell.

The storage controller can use this feature in many ways. It can store code here for fast loading, such as boot code. It can store parameters for a neural network model that must be paged into DRAM on demand. For security, the controller can use a hybrid zone to isolate sensitive data from the access method used in the rest of the storage array. Or the controller can reserve a hybrid zone for a fast dump of DRAM contents in case of system failure.

Figure 2 Here is how the FerriSSD controller offers a hybrid zone, the unique capability of partitioning a single NAND die into separate single-level cells (SLC) and multi-level cells/3D triple-level cells (MLC/TLC zones). Source: Silicon Motion

The hybrid zone’s flexibility ultimately supports diverse storage needs in multi-functional security systems, from high-speed data access for real-time applications such as authentic access to secure storage for critical archived footage.

Selecting storage for security cameras

Advanced AI security cameras require a robust storage solution for mission-critical AI video surveillance applications. Below is an example of how a storage controller delivers enterprise-grade data integrity and reliability using ECC technology.

Figure 3 This is how a storage controller optimizes the choice of ECC algorithms. Source: Silicon Motion

The storage needs of advanced security cameras go far beyond the simple code and parameter storage of simple embedded systems. They increasingly resemble the requirements in cloud storage systems and require SSD controllers with error correction, reliability, and security features.

This similarity also places great importance on the controller vendor’s experience—in power-conscious edge environments, high-end AI cloud environments, and intimate relationships with NAND flash vendors.

Lancelot Hu is director of product marketing for embedded and automotive storage at Silicon Motion.

Related Content

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• HDDs vs SSDs: It’s all about the random speeds
• AI makes data storage more effective for analytics
• Magneto-optical disk ups camera storage capacity
• Bringing HD camera technology to the surveillance market

The post How controllers tackle storage challenges in AI security cameras appeared first on EDN.

Back in November 2023, I told you about how my 2006 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon:

had failed (more accurately, not completed) its initial emissions testing the year before (October 2022) because it hadn’t been driven substantively in the prior two years and its onboard diagnostic system therefore hadn’t completed a self-evaluation prior to the emissions test attempt. Thankfully, after driving the vehicle around for a while, aided by mechanics’ insights, online info and data sourced from my OBD-II scanner, the last stubborn self-test (“oxygen sensor heater”) ran and completed successfully, as did my subsequent second emissions test attempt.

The battery, which I’d just replaced two years earlier in September 2020, had been disconnected for the in-between two-year period, not that keeping it connected would have notably affected the complications-rife outcome; even with the onboard diagnostic system powered up, the vehicle still needed to be driven in order for self-evaluation tests to run. This time, I vowed, I’d be better. I’d go down to the outdoor storage lot, where the Jeep was parked, every few weeks and start and drive it some. And purely for convenience reasons, I kept the battery connected this time, so I wouldn’t need to pop the hood both before and after each driving iteration.

I bet you know what happened next, don’t you? How’s that saying go…”the road to hell is paved with good intentions”? Weeks turned into months, months turned into years, and two years later (October 2024) to be exact, I ended up with not only a Jeep whose onboard diagnostics system tests had expired again, but one whose battery looked like this:

Here it is in the cart at Costco, after my removal of it from the engine compartment and right before I replaced it with another brand-new successor:

I immediately replaced it primarily for expediency reasons; it’s somewhat inconvenient to get to the storage lot (therefore why my prior aspirations had been for naught) and given that I already knew I had some driving to do before it’d pass emissions (not to mention that my deadline for passing emissions was drawing near) I didn’t want to waste time messing around with trying to revive this one. But I was nagged afterwards by curiosity; could I have revived it? I decided to do some research, and although in my case the answer was likely still no (given just how drained it was, and for how long it’d been in this degraded condition), I learned a few things that I thought I’d pass along.

First off: what causes a (sealed, in my particular) lead-acid (SLA) battery to fail in the first place? Numerous reasons exist, but for the purposes of this particular post topic, I’m going to focus on just one, sulfication. With as-usual upfront thanks to Wikipedia for the concise but comprehensive summary that follows:

Lead–acid batteries lose the ability to accept a charge when discharged for too long due to sulfation, the crystallization of lead sulfate. They generate electricity through a double sulfate chemical reaction. Lead and lead dioxide, the active materials on the battery’s plates, react with sulfuric acid in the electrolyte to form lead sulfate. The lead sulfate first forms in a finely divided, amorphous state and easily reverts to lead, lead dioxide, and sulfuric acid when the battery recharges. As batteries cycle through numerous discharges and charges, some lead sulfate does not recombine into electrolyte and slowly converts into a stable crystalline form that no longer dissolves on recharging. Thus, not all the lead is returned to the battery plates, and the amount of usable active material necessary for electricity generation declines over time.

And specific to my rarely used vehicle situation:

Sulfation occurs in lead–acid batteries when they are subjected to insufficient charging during normal operation, it also occurs when lead–acid batteries left unused with incomplete charge for an extended time. It impedes recharging; sulfate deposits ultimately expand, cracking the plates and destroying the battery. Eventually, so much of the battery plate area is unable to supply current that the battery capacity is greatly reduced. In addition, the sulfate portion (of the lead sulfate) is not returned to the electrolyte as sulfuric acid. It is believed that large crystals physically block the electrolyte from entering the pores of the plates. A white coating on the plates may be visible in batteries with clear cases or after dismantling the battery. Batteries that are sulfated show a high internal resistance and can deliver only a small fraction of normal discharge current. Sulfation also affects the charging cycle, resulting in longer charging times, less-efficient and incomplete charging, and higher battery temperatures.

Okay, but what if I just kept the battery disconnected, as I’d been doing previously? That should be enough to prevent sulfication-related degradation, since there’d then be no resulting current flow through the battery, right? Nope:

Batteries also have a small amount of internal resistance that will discharge the battery even when it is disconnected. If a battery is left disconnected, any internal charge will drain away slowly and eventually reach the critical point. From then on the film will develop and thicken. This is the reason batteries will be found to charge poorly or not at all if left in storage for a long period of time.

I also found this bit, both on how battery chargers operate and how sulfication adversely affects this process, interesting:

Conventional battery chargers use a one-, two-, or three-stage process to recharge the battery, with a switched-mode power supply including more stages in order to fill the battery more rapidly and completely. Common to almost all chargers, including non-switched models, is the middle stage, normally known as “absorption”. In this mode the charger holds a steady voltage slightly above that of a full battery, in order to push current into the cells. As the battery fills, its internal voltage rises towards the fixed voltage being supplied to it, and the rate of current flow slows. Eventually the charger will turn off when the current drops below a pre-set threshold.

A sulfated battery has higher electrical resistance than an unsulfated battery of identical construction. As related by Ohm’s law, current is the ratio of voltage to resistance, so a sulfated battery will have lower current flow. As the charging process continues, such a battery will reach the charger’s preset cut-off more rapidly, long before it has had time to accept a complete charge. In this case the battery charger indicates the charge cycle is complete, but the battery actually holds very little energy. To the user, it appears that the battery is dying.

My longstanding-use battery charger is a DieHard model 28.71222:

It’s fairly old-school in design, although “modern” enough that it enables the owner to front panel switch-differentiate between conventional SLA and newer absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery technologies from a charging-process standpoint (speaking of which, in the process of researching this piece I also learned that old-school vehicles like mine are also often, albeit not always, able to use both legacy SLA and newer AGM batteries). And it conveniently supports not only 10A charging but also 2A “trickle” (i.e., “maintain”) and 50A “engine start” modes.

That said, we’re storing the Volkswagen Eurovan Camper in the garage nowadays, with my Volvo perpetually parked in the driveway instead (and the Jeep still “down the hill” at the storage lot). I recently did some shopping for a more modern “trickle” charger for the van’s battery, and in the process discovered that newer chargers are not only much more compact than my ancient “beast” but also offer integrated desulfation support (claimed, at least). Before you get too excited, there’s this Wikipedia qualifier to start:

Sulfation can be avoided if the battery is fully recharged immediately after a discharge cycle. There are no known independently-verified ways to reverse sulfation. There are commercial products claiming to achieve desulfation through various techniques such as pulse charging, but there are no peer-reviewed publications verifying their claims. Sulfation prevention remains the best course of action, by periodically fully charging the lead–acid batteries.

With that said, there’s this excerpt from the linked-to ”Battery regenerator” Wikipedia entry:

The lead sulfate layer can be dissolved back into solution by applying much higher voltages. Normally, running high voltage into a battery will cause it to rapidly heat and potentially cause thermal runaway, which may cause it to explode. Some battery conditioners use short pulses of high voltage, too short to cause significant heating, but long enough to reverse the crystallization process. 

Any metal structure, such as a battery, will have some parasitic inductance and some parasitic capacitance. These will resonate with each other, and something the size of a battery will usually resonate at a few megahertz. This process is sometimes called “ringing”. However, the electrochemical processes found in batteries have time constants on the order of seconds and will not be affected by megahertz frequencies. There are some websites which advertise “battery desulfators” running at megahertz frequencies.

Depending on the size of the battery, the desulfation process can take from 48 hours to weeks to complete. During this period the battery is also trickle charged to continue reducing the amount of lead sulfur in solution.

Courtesy of a recent Amazon Prime Big Deal Days promotion, I ended up picking up three different charger models at discounted prices, with the intention of tearing down at least one in the future in comparative contrast to my buzzing DieHard beast. For trickle-only charging purposes, I got two ~$20 1A 6V/12V GENIUS 1s from NOCO, a well-known brand:

Among its feature set bullet points are these:

• Charge dead batteries – Charges batteries as low as 1-volt. Or use the all-new force mode that allows you to take control and manually begin charging dead batteries down to zero volts.
• Restore your battery – An advanced battery repair mode uses slow pulse reconditioner technology to detect battery sulfation and acid stratification to restore lost battery performance for stronger engine starts and extended battery life.

Then there were two from NEXPEAK, a lesser known but still highly rated (on Amazon, at least) brand, the ~$21 6A 12V model NC101:

• [HIGH-EFFICIENCY PULSE REPAIR] battery charger automotive detects battery sulfation and acid stratification, take newest pulse repair function to restore lost battery performance for stronger engine starts and extended battery life. NOTE: can not activate or charging totally dead batteries.

And the also-$21 10A 12V/24V NC201 PRO:

with similarly worded desulfation-support prose:

• [HIGH-EFFICIENCY PULSE REPAIR]Automatically detects battery sulfation and acid stratification, take newest pulse repair function to restore lost battery performance for stronger engine starts and extended battery life. Note: can not activate or charging totally dead batteries.

In fact, with this model and as the front panel graphic shows, the default recharging sequence always begins with a desulfation step.

Do the desulfation claims bear out in real life? Read through the Amazon user comments for the NC101 and NC201 PRO and you’ll likely come away with a mixed conclusion. Cynically speaking, perhaps, the hype is reminiscent of the “peak” cranking amp claims of lithium battery-based battery jump starters. And I also wonder for what percentage of the positive reviewers the battery resurrection ended up being only partial and temporary. That said, I suppose it’s better than nothing, especially considering how cost-effective these chargers are nowadays.

And that said, my ultimate future aspiration is to not need to try to resurrect my Jeep’s battery at all. To wit, given that as previously noted, “I don’t have AC outlet access for [editor note: conventional] trickle chargers” at the outdoor storage facility, I’ve also picked up a portable solar panel with integrated trickle charger for ~$18 during that same promotion (two, actually, in case I end up moving the van back down there, too):

which, next time I’m down there, I intend to mate to a SAE extension cable I also bought:

bungee-strap the solar panel to the Jeep’s windshield (or maybe the hood, depending on vehicle and sun orientations), on top of the car cover intermediary, and route the charging cable from underneath the vehicle to the battery in the engine compartment above. I’ll report back my results in a future post. Until then, I welcome your comments on what I’ve written so far!

—Brian Dipert is the Editor-in-Chief of the Edge AI and Vision Alliance, and a Senior Analyst at BDTI and Editor-in-Chief of InsideDSP, the company’s online newsletter.

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• SLA batteries: More system form factors and lithium-based successors
• Modern UPSs: Their creative control schemes and power sources
• Energizer’s PowerSource Pro Battery Generator: Not bad, but you can do better

The post Dead Lead-acid Batteries: Desulfation-resurrection opportunities? appeared first on EDN.

• Latest MCUs leverage cutting-edge near-threshold chip design to set record performance-per-watt efficiency benchmark
• Secret-key protection and in-factory provisioning boost cyber security
• Typical applications include utility meters, healthcare devices, and industrial sensors

STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, has introduced new STM32U3 microcontrollers (MCUs) with cutting-edge power-saving innovations that ease deployment of smart connected tech, especially in remote locations.

The latest MCUs are aimed at IoT devices, which must typically operate for extended periods without maintenance and with limited energy from a coin cell or ambient solar or thermoelectric source. Typical applications that depend on the lowest possible power consumption include utility meters, healthcare devices such as glucose meters and insulin pumps, animal care monitors, forest-fire sensors, and industrial sensors including thermostats and smoke detectors. STM32U3 MCUs are also used in consumer products such as smart watches, wearables, and hearables.

“The STM32U3 series builds on the heritage of ST-established ultra-low-power general-purpose microcontroller class as it is known today, which opened the door to widespread diffusion of smart technology in diverse environments,” commented Patrick Aidoune, General-Purpose MCU Division General Manager, STMicroelectronics. “Leveraging innovative techniques such as recent advancements in near-threshold design, the new devices cut dynamic power consumption to the bone, boosting efficiency by a factor of two compared to our previous generation, hence contributing to companies’ sustainability goals.”

In addition to its extreme energy efficiency, the STM32U3 series meets the needs of IoT devices by providing robust cyber protection using the latest hardware security techniques. The MCUs are designed to confine secret keys permanently in secure memory, eliminating vulnerable CPU fetches. In addition, attestation credentials for each device are provisioned by ST at manufacture before leaving the factory, which strengthens security and simplifies provisioning. All those security mechanisms, in addition to the SESIP3 and PSA Level3 certifiable security assets, such as cryptographic accelerators, TrustZone® isolation, random generator, and product lifecycle will contribute and enable ST customers to reach compliancy towards the upcoming RED and CRA regulations.

Customer testimonials:

“STM32U3 enables us [smaXtec] to bring our hardware for animal health monitors to the next level. The consumption in active mode is extremely low, only a few µA/MHz, which enables us to reduce the energy needed for current data processing algorithms while at the same time adding new features to our products. In addition, its advanced range of low-power modes lets us put the device into deep sleep if no data is processed. The newly implemented STOP3 mode, including its wakeup capabilities, is a neat way to keep power consumption low,” said Manuel Frech, Product Development Engineer, smaXtec.

Technical Notes for Editors

ST has set the pace in ultra-low-power (ULP) MCUs with previous STM32 variants and is now taking ULP performance to a new level with the new STM32U3 series. Leveraging advanced power-saving chip design, fine-tuned with AI-enhanced tools, and the latest Arm Cortex-M33 core running at up to 96MHz, the new MCUs achieve the market-leading Coremark-per-milliwatt score of 117. This is almost twice the efficiency of ST’s preceding STM32U5 series, and five times that of the STM32L4 series.

• STM32U3 MCUs set new standards in dynamic performance by taking advantage of near-threshold technology that operates IC transistors at extremely low voltage, saving energy proportionately according to a square law
• ST’s innovative near-threshold implementation uses AI-driven adaptive voltage scaling at wafer level to compensate for process variations in the foundry
• In addition to dynamic power savings (down to 10µA/MHz), the STM32U3 series achieve extremely low stop current, at 1.6µA
• STM32U3 embeds up to 1MB of Flash memory dual-bank and 256kB of SRAM
• In terms of security, STM32U3 MCUs embed all successful security features of the STM32U5, with additional keystore capabilities. Newly, secret keys are loaded in-factory by ST on the STM32U3 MCUs and are protected by a coupling and chaining bridge (CCB), representing the first use of this technology in the STM32 MCU family
• Two product lines are available, presenting a choice of MCUs either with or without a hardware cryptographic accelerator
• Combined with their low power, the devices integrate efficient and high-performing peripherals including the latest I3C digital connectivity
• MCUs are available in commercial (-40°C to 85°C) and extended industrial
  (-40°C to 105°C) temperature ranges

The STM32U3 series is in production now and available from $1.93 for orders of 10,000 pieces. For more information, please go to www.st.com/stm32u3

The post STMicroelectronics reveals STM32U3 microcontrollers extending ultra-low power innovation for remote, smart and sustainable applications appeared first on ELE Times.

Flexible displays and wearable technology are rapidly transforming the consumer electronics industry, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in human-device interaction. Flexible displays enable devices to bend, fold, and stretch, while wearable technology integrates electronic components into materials that can be comfortably worn. These advancements are driven by materials science, miniaturization of components, and innovative manufacturing techniques. This article explores the latest breakthroughs, industry trends, technical challenges, and real-world applications of these cutting-edge technologies.

1.1. Core Technologies Behind Flexible Displays

Flexible displays leverage new materials and fabrication techniques to achieve durability and functionality. The primary display technologies used are:

• Organic Light-Emitting Diodes (OLEDs): OLEDs use organic compounds that emit light when an electric current is applied. Their thin and flexible nature makes them ideal for foldable and rollable screens. OLEDs also offer superior color accuracy, contrast ratios, and power efficiency compared to traditional LCDs, making them a preferred choice for mobile and wearable devices.
• MicroLEDs: MicroLEDs offer higher brightness, energy efficiency, and longevity, making them an attractive alternative to OLEDs for flexible display applications in smartwatches, augmented reality (AR) devices, and automotive dashboards. Unlike OLEDs, microLEDs do not suffer from burn-in issues, providing longer-lasting performance in demanding environments.
• E-Paper Displays: Although traditionally rigid, e-paper technology is evolving to include flexible variants that allow for bendable e-readers and dynamic signage. E-paper displays consume significantly less power than OLEDs and microLEDs, making them ideal for applications where energy efficiency is paramount, such as electronic shelf labels and wearable medical devices.

1.2. Breakthroughs in Flexible Display Materials

Recent material innovations have significantly enhanced the flexibility and durability of displays.

• Graphene-Based Substrates: Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, exhibits exceptional electrical conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and lightweight properties. These characteristics make graphene an excellent candidate for next-generation flexible displays, providing both durability and energy efficiency.
• Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG): Companies like Samsung and Corning have developed ultra-thin, chemically treated glass that bends without breaking. This innovation is crucial for foldable smartphones and tablets, as it offers superior scratch resistance and optical clarity compared to polymer-based alternatives.
• Polyimide Films: Polyimide is a high-performance polymer that serves as a flexible and durable substrate for OLED and e-paper screens. It offers excellent thermal stability and mechanical strength, making it an essential component in the development of bendable and stretchable displays.

2.1. Roll-to-Roll (R2R) Printing

Roll-to-roll (R2R) manufacturing is a continuous production process that enables the fabrication of thin, flexible electronics on a large scale. By printing electronic circuits and display components onto flexible substrates, R2R technology significantly reduces production costs and increases manufacturing efficiency. This technique is essential for the commercialization of affordable flexible displays in consumer electronics, medical devices, and wearable technology.

2.2. Laser Patterning and Etching

Laser patterning and etching techniques enhance the precision of flexible circuit production, allowing for high-resolution displays in compact form factors. By selectively removing material layers with laser beams, manufacturers can create intricate circuit patterns that improve the performance and durability of flexible displays. These techniques also enable the development of micro-LED and quantum-dot displays with enhanced color accuracy and brightness.

Wearable technology has benefited immensely from flexible display advancements, enabling next-generation applications in fitness tracking, healthcare, and immersive computing.

3.1. Smartwatches and Fitness Bands

Smartwatches like the Samsung Galaxy Watch and Apple Watch utilize OLED and microLED technology to deliver high-resolution displays in a compact, power-efficient form. The use of flexible displays enhances durability and adaptability, allowing for sleeker designs and better user experiences. Additionally, fitness bands equipped with flexible screens provide real-time health metrics, including heart rate, oxygen saturation, and stress levels, making them indispensable tools for health-conscious consumers.

3.2. Smart Glasses and Augmented Reality (AR) Devices

Smart glasses and AR devices rely on flexible OLED micro-displays to provide immersive digital experiences without compromising portability and battery life. Products like Microsoft HoloLens and Meta’s AR glasses integrate ultra-thin, lightweight flexible displays that enhance usability and comfort. These wearables are expected to play a pivotal role in industries such as healthcare, education, and remote collaboration, where real-time data visualization and hands-free interaction are essential.

3.3. E-Textiles and Smart Clothing

The integration of flexible circuits into textiles has given rise to e-textiles, which are fabrics embedded with electronic components. These smart fabrics can monitor vital signs, track movement, and even display real-time information on fabric surfaces. Applications of e-textiles range from sportswear with embedded biometric sensors to military uniforms equipped with heads-up displays (HUDs) for enhanced situational awareness.

4.1. Consumer Electronics Giants Leading the Charge

Leading technology companies are investing heavily in flexible display innovation:

• Samsung: The Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series demonstrate the commercial viability of foldable displays, offering a glimpse into the future of mobile computing.
• LG: LG’s rollable OLED displays are finding applications in televisions, automotive dashboards, and commercial signage, showcasing the versatility of flexible display technology.
• Apple: Rumors suggest that Apple is developing foldable iPhones and wearable microLED screens, indicating a strong commitment to flexible display research and development.

4.2. Adoption in Healthcare and Medical Wearables

Flexible sensors and displays are revolutionizing medical monitoring by enabling real-time health tracking and diagnostics. Wearable medical devices equipped with flexible displays offer several advantages:

• Continuous ECG and glucose monitoring for patients with chronic conditions.
• AI-powered diagnostics integrated into smart bands for early disease detection.
• Skin patches embedded with stretchable biosensors for non-invasive health assessments.

5.1. Durability and Longevity

Repeated bending and folding can lead to material fatigue, impacting the longevity of flexible displays. Researchers are exploring self-healing materials and reinforced ultra-thin glass layers to enhance durability.

5.2. Power Efficiency and Thermal Management

Flexible electronics require optimized power consumption strategies to maintain battery life. Advances in energy-efficient microprocessors and flexible lithium-ion batteries are crucial for sustaining long-term usability.

5.3. Cost and Scalability

Despite technological advancements, mass production of flexible displays remains costly due to specialized fabrication processes. Industry efforts are focused on streamlining production and improving yield rates to make flexible technology more accessible.

6.1. Integration with AI and IoT

Future wearables will incorporate AI-driven health monitoring, context-aware displays, and seamless IoT connectivity, enhancing user experiences across various domains.

6.2. Advances in Quantum Dot and Perovskite Materials

Quantum dot and perovskite-based displays could revolutionize flexible screens by improving color accuracy, efficiency, and lifespan.

6.3. Fully Stretchable and Shape-Adaptive Devices

The next frontier is fully stretchable electronics that dynamically adapt to user needs, with applications in robotics, prosthetics, and adaptive interfaces.

Flexible displays and wearable technology are set to redefine digital interaction, merging advancements in materials science, electronics, and AI. As manufacturing processes evolve, these devices will become more durable, power-efficient, and accessible, shaping the future of consumer electronics, healthcare, and beyond.

The post The Future of Flexible Displays and Wearable Technology: A Technical Deep Dive appeared first on ELE Times.

The Indian smart home market is experiencing rapid growth, with smart switches playing a pivotal role in home automation. These devices allow users to control lighting, appliances, and other electrical fixtures remotely, enhancing convenience and energy efficiency. Several Indian startups have emerged as key players in this domain, offering innovative smart switch solutions tailored to the unique needs of Indian consumers. Here are ten notable smart switch startups in India:

1. Wipro Smart Home

A subsidiary of Wipro Limited, Wipro Smart Home specializes in integrated smart lighting systems, security solutions, and energy management devices. Their smart switches enable users to control home lighting remotely, schedule operations, and monitor energy consumption, all through a user-friendly mobile application. The seamless integration with other smart devices makes Wipro a prominent player in the Indian smart switch market.

2. Syska

Syska is renowned for its smart lighting solutions, including smart bulbs and switches. Their smart switches are designed for easy installation and compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Features such as remote operation, scheduling, and energy monitoring cater to the evolving needs of tech-savvy consumers.

3. Oakter

Oakter offers modular smart home kits, including smart plugs and switches, that can be controlled via smartphones or voice commands. Their smart switches are designed for retrofit installations, allowing users to upgrade existing setups without extensive rewiring. The focus on affordability and user-friendly interfaces has made Oakter a popular choice among Indian homeowners.

4. Cubical Labs

Cubical Labs provides automation systems for lighting, security, and energy management. Their smart switches offer features like touch-sensitive controls, remote access, and integration with other smart devices. The emphasis on scalability and customization allows users to tailor their smart home experience according to individual preferences.

5. Atomberg Technologies

While primarily known for smart ceiling fans, Atomberg Technologies has ventured into smart switches that complement their energy-efficient appliances. These switches offer remote control, scheduling, and energy monitoring, aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

6. Silvan Innovation Labs

Silvan specializes in integrated home automation systems, including smart switches that control lighting, security, and entertainment devices. Their products feature AI-powered systems and voice recognition, providing a seamless and intuitive user experience. The focus on high-end residences and luxury hotels showcases their expertise in creating sophisticated smart home ecosystems.

7. TagHaus

TagHaus offers a range of smart home devices, including smart plugs and switches, that prioritize simplicity and affordability. Their smart switches are designed for plug-and-play installation, making it easy for users to upgrade their homes without professional assistance. Features like cloud connectivity and mobile app control enhance the convenience and appeal of their products.

8. Inoho

Inoho provides retrofit smart home solutions, including smart switches that allow users to control appliances remotely. Their modular design and affordability make it accessible for homeowners looking to upgrade their existing electrical systems without significant modifications.

9. Leccy & Genesis

Leccy & Genesis focuses on centralized control systems, offering smart switchboards that manage various appliances simultaneously. Their products are designed to be dependable and user-friendly, providing homeowners with the ability to control lighting, fans, and other devices through a centralized interface.

10. Jasmine Smart Homes

Jasmine Smart Homes offers Wi-Fi-enabled smart switches designed specifically for Indian homes. Their products feature innovative designs, easy installation, and compatibility with popular voice assistants. The focus on combining functionality, style, and reliability has made them a trusted name in the Indian smart home market.

These startups are at the forefront of India’s smart switch industry, offering a diverse range of products that cater to various consumer needs. From energy efficiency to seamless integration with existing home systems, these companies are driving the adoption of smart home technologies across the country.

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