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The company is launching devices across the gamut of power applications, including a GaN driver, dual-channel automotive driver, and battery-protection MOSFET.

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Learn the hybrid design configurations used in today’s TWS earbuds, along with the engineering challenges that OEMs face when designing hybrid models.

To know more about the project, here's my repo link: https://github.com/0101shift/Project_OAK submitted by /u/0101shift [link] [comments]

We are told that LED-based lighting will provide a very long service life per bulb, but here comes “Sportin’ Life” again (from Porgy and Bess) to put the lie to that claim. (It ain’t necessarily so.)

These four LED lamps each went dark after only a few months of service despite their packages’ promise (Figure 1).

Figure 1 Four LED bulbs that failed after a few months despite their service life being over 20 years.

Similarly, one of the five LED lamps in this ceiling fixture also went dark after only a few months of service (Figure 2).

Figure 2 One in five LED bulbs in this ceiling lamp was rendered nonfunctional only after a few months.

In my eighty years in this world, I have only twice seen a new incandescent lamp fail so soon after being put into service. One lamp had a service life of thirty minutes and the other one died almost instantly.

I tried to cut open one of the four failed conical LED lamps to see what specifically had gone wrong, but I couldn’t manage to penetrate the shroud. Those plastic bulb enclosures were made of really tough stuff. Failing in that effort, I simply threw the four of them out.

Nevertheless, four for four strikes me as a pretty shabby history. I replaced each of the four with products from a different manufacturer, and so far, since pre-pandemic times, those LED bulbs are still working.

It can be done.

John Dunn is an electronics consultant and a graduate of The Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn (BSEE) and of New York University (MSEE).

 Related Content

• Teardown: What killed this LED bulb?
• What’s the storage life of idled LED light bulbs?
• Incandescent lamps and service life
• Rich voltage, poor voltage: My incandescent tale
• The burned-out bulb mystery
• The LED: incandescent light bulb heir apparent

The post The empty promise of the LED bulb’s lifetime appeared first on EDN.

Design Idea (DI) contributors have recently explored various possibilities for ON/OFF power control using just a momentary contact “shiny modern push-button,” many of which build off of Nick Cornford’s “To press on or hold off? This does both.”

These ideas are interesting, and they’ve suggested a different notion. Figure 1 takes the one-button power control concept a bit further. It uses its button to provide six bits of resolution to a kilowatt of variable AC power, addressing adjustable applications like heating blankets, lamp dimming, motor speed, etc. I like it because, well, shouldn’t there be a bit (or even six) more to life than just ON/OFF?

Figure 1 Variable AC power control with a simple pushbutton. When S1 is pushed, counter U1 ramps through the 64 DAC codes in a 210 / 120Hz = 8.5-second cycle and stops on any selected power setting when S1 is released.

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

Power control method

The power control method employed in Figure 1 is variable AC phase angle conduction via thyristor Q3. It’s wired in the traditional way except that the 6-bit DAC driven by CMOS counter U1 fills in for the usual phase adjustment pot. Because, unlike Q3, the DAC circuitry isn’t bidirectional, the D1-4 rectifier is needed to feed it DC and keep it working and counting through 60-Hz alternations.

Full power Q3 efficiency is around 99%, but its maximum junction temperature rating is only 110 °C. Adequate heatsinking of Q2 will therefore be necessary if output loads greater than 200 W are expected.

Adjusting U1 to the desired power setting is accomplished by pushing and holding switch S1. This connects the 120-Hz full-wave rectifier signal from the D1-D4 bridge to the Schmitt trigger formed by R2, R3, and U1’s internal non-inverting q0 input buffer.

The subsequent division of the 120 Hz signal by U1’s ripple divider chain makes flip-flop q5 toggle at 120/25 = 3.75 Hz, q6 at 120/26 = 1.875 Hz, and so forth down to q10 at 120/210 = 0.117 Hz. This gives a ramp time of 8.5 seconds for the full 0 (= full OFF) to 63 (= full ON) code cycle. Meanwhile, digital integration of the raw signal from switch S1 by U1’s counters suppresses switch contact bounce.

When the desired power setting (lamp brightness, motor speed, etc.) is reached, release the button, i.e., just let go! However, due to the fairly rapid toggle rate of the lower counter stages, a bit of practice may be required to accurately hit a target setting on the first try.

DAC topology

The DAC topology is straightforward. Just six (R4 through R9) binary-weighted resistors make up a summing network that produces a 0-V to 15-V input to the Q1 Q2 complementary current-mode output buffer.

Q1 provides nominal compensation for Q2’s Vbe offset and tempco, as well as sufficient current gain to allow use of multi-megohm resistances in the summation network. This is important because operating power for the DAC is basically stolen from Q3’s phase control signal.

This (as you probably noticed), nicely avoids the need for a separate power supply, but it provides only microamps of current for U1 and friends. So, a power-thrifty topology was definitely needed.

DAC reference Z1 is remarkably content with its meager share of this starvation diet. It maintains a usefully constant regulation despite only a single-digit microamp bias, which is impressive for an 11-cent (in singles) part. Meanwhile, U1 daintily sips only tens of nanoamps.

R11 and C3 provide an initial reset to OFF when power is first applied.

At this point, you might reasonably ask: Is this scheme any better than a simple pot with a twistable knob? Well, don’t forget the “shiny modern push-button” factor.

Stephen Woodward’s relationship with EDN’s DI column goes back quite a long way. Over 100 submissions have been accepted since his first contribution back in 1974.

Related Content

• To press on or hold off? This does both.
• To press ON or hold OFF? This does both for AC voltages
• Latching power switch uses momentary pushbutton
• A new and improved latching power switch
• Latching power switch uses momentary-action pushbutton

The post A different twist to the power pushbutton problem: A kilowatt AC DAC appeared first on EDN.

AXT Inc of Fremont, CA, USA – which makes gallium arsenide (GaAs), indium phosphide (InP) and germanium (Ge) substrates and raw materials – says that its China-based manufacturing subsidiary Beijing Tongmei Xtal Technology Co Ltd has been informed that it has satisfied the applicable requirements for a permit to export indium phosphide and has received export permits from the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China to resume shipping indium phosphide substrates to certain additional customers...

A subfield of machine learning called “deep learning” uses artificial neural networks to learn from data in an attempt to mimic human learning. Artificial neural networks, inspired by the human brain, are versatile enough to tackle a wide array of issues from speech recognition to image recognition and natural language processing. The top 10 deep learning applications & use cases that are spurring innovation worldwide will be examined in this article.

1. Autonomous Vehicle

Deep learning is crucial for self-driving cars, allowing them to interpret more-or-less simultaneous data streaming from sensors, cameras, and radar systems as they move through the world. Allowing real-time models to engage in split-second decisions, these models help vehicles identify pedestrians, traffic signs, and other vehicles so that safety is ensured. The companies working with these models are at the forefront of autonomous mobility, aiming for fewer accidents and more efficient transport through these means.

2. Healthcare

In medicine, deep learning helps in disease diagnosis and treatment. Cancer, heart illness, and tumors are detected on the basis of medical images such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans evaluated with higher accuracy by algorithms. It is useful for drug discovery, remote health monitoring, and personalized medicine as well.

3. Natural Language Processing (NLP)

Natural language processing is a significant feature of deep learning systems that work on text and speech interpretation. Natural language Processing serves certain applications like sentiment analysis, language translation, and customer support chatbots.

4. Facial Recognition

Deep learning-based facial recognition systems essentially identify and verify individuals based on facial characteristics. Its uses for smartphones include a secure method for unlocking, for airports in passenger verification, and for public safety surveillance.

5. Fraud Detection & Finance

Financial entities use deep learning in order to detect fraudulent transactions and cyber threats. These models conduct an agglomeration of data points numbering in the millions as patterns to flag an anomaly that might constitute identity theft, credit card fraud, or insider trading. This proactive approach helps protect the consumer and builds confidence in digital banking systems.

6. Satellite Imaging and Earth Observation

Such deep learning technologies assist in analyzing satellite imagery for climate monitoring, urban planning, and disaster-management applications. It can track deforestation, glacial movement, or the magnitude of damage caused by a natural disaster.

7. In-Vehicle Personalization

Deep learning enhances the driving experience by adapting vehicle settings and features to individual preferences. These systems learn from driver behavior and environmental conditions to optimize comfort, convenience, and entertainment.

8. Robotics and Industrial Automation

Robots with deep learning enable them to perform complex tasks such as object recognition, defect detection, and predictive maintenance in the manufacturing and logistics arenas. These intelligent systems decrease operating expenses, increase efficiency, and lessen human mistake. Robots powered by artificial intelligence are changing industrial processes, from precise assembly lines to warehouse automation.

9. Predictive Maintenance

Predictive maintenance powered by deep learning helps industries anticipate equipment failures before they happen, minimizing downtime and reducing repair costs.

10. Cybersecurity

To avoid hacking and illicit access, deep learning models detect anomalies in network traffic of an automobile. This role grows more and more critical as cars get more and more connected.

Conclusion:

From health care to cyber-security, applications of deep learning are serving as building blocks for the future of technology. This, in turn, shows the process by which AI is mixing itself in everyday life. With more applications being discovered, deep learning will be building smarter, safer, and more efficient systems for all sectors of economy.

The post Top 10 Deep Learning Applications and Use Cases appeared first on ELE Times.

На війні загинув випускник нашого університету Сергій Либенський kpi ср, 08/20/2025 - 11:09

Arc generator modules may be small in scale, but they offer big opportunities for hands-on exploration in electronics. Whether you are experimenting with arc simulation, testing circuit behavior under fault conditions, or simply curious about high-voltage phenomena, these minuscule modules provide a safe and accessible way to dive into the fundamentals.

This blog will present hands-on tips and tricks for working with hobby-grade arc generator modules and circuits—ideal for curious minds and budding engineers eager to explore high-voltage experimentation.

There are several methods for generating electric arcs. However, this post will focus on how to achieve extra-high voltage levels using simple electronic circuits. The spotlight is on a widely available, budget-friendly arc generator module kit designed for DIY enthusiasts. It’s an accessible way to dive into high-voltage experimentation without breaking the bank.

Take a look at the kit below, along with its key technical specs to help you understand what it offers.

• Input voltage: 3.7 V to 4.2 V DC
• Input current: < 2 A
• Output voltage: ~15 kV
• Output current: ≤ 0.4 A
• Ignition distance (high voltage bipolar): ≤ 0.5 cm

Figure 1 This compact arc generator kit delivers around 15-kV output using only a handful of components. Source: Author

This is arguably one of the elementary and most accessible kits for electronics enthusiasts looking to explore high-voltage applications. The module requires minimal setup skills, with no circuit-level adjustments needed. While the power output is not exceptionally high, even a minor mishap can result in serious electrical burns. That said, with proper safety precautions in place, the system can produce stunningly high-frequency arcs.

Now, let’s take a look at the schematic diagram to understand how the circuit works.

Figure 2 The schematic diagram demonstrates how the kit produces high voltage through a minimal circuit design. Source: Author

Examining its internal electronics reveals a single-transistor oscillator at the heart of the circuit. This simple yet effective configuration allows high-voltage generation from standard battery cells.

Functionally, it acts as a step-up (booster) transformer system, where a feedback loop controls the switching of a power transistor. The secret to high-voltage output lies in the transformer’s winding setup. It uses two primary coils—main and feedback—alongside a secondary winding that can produce voltages soaring into the kilovolt range.

The diode’s most critical function in this oscillator circuit is to block the reverse voltage pulse generated by the transformer’s collapsing magnetic field. This action is essential for two reasons; it prevents damage to the transistor and ensures a clean transition to the “off” state.

Next is another compact high-voltage boost module (sometimes labelled as XKT203-33) capable of generating up to 30 kV. Specifically engineered for pest control applications, it finds use in devices aimed at eliminating mosquitoes, cockroaches, and other small insects. Despite its impressive output, the module operates efficiently with minimal power input, making it ideal for battery-powered or low-power systems.

The image below presents the aforesaid module alongside its internal schematic for reference. A closer look at the available schematic highlights the use of proprietary components, with a Delon voltage doubler circuit strategically placed at the output stage to deliver the required 30 kV.

Figure 3 The 30-kV module achieves high-voltage generation through an elegantly minimal design. Source: Author

Interestingly, a closer look at two seemingly popular kV generator modules shows that even humble jellybean components can handle the task. Still, integrating custom parts might elevate performance and efficiency.

But before jumping to conclusions, consider this alternative design idea for building your own kV generator module, an approach many have explored with intriguing results. Let’s take a quick look.

Figure 4 The blueprint shows how to generate high-voltage output using an automotive ignition coil. Source: Author

This approach simply utilizes a universal automotive ignition coil to produce high-voltage output, as depicted in the self-explanatory diagram above.

At its core, an ignition coil consists of three main components: a primary winding, a secondary winding, and a laminated iron core. Secondary winding contains significantly more turns of wire than the primary, creating a turn ratio that directly influences the voltage increase. There is a fairly typical range for the ignition coil turns ratio, usually between possibly 50:1 to 200:1, with 100:1 probably being the most common.

Just to add, in an inductive ignition system, the primary winding is typically energized with 12 V or 24 V. When this current is suddenly interrupted, a high-voltage EMF is induced in the secondary winding—often reaching 20 kV to 40 kV—more than enough to jump across a spark gap.

To break it down further, a single switching action by a transistor (BJT/IGBT/MOSFET) initiates the ignition process by allowing current to flow through the ignition coil’s primary winding. The current charges the primary coil, storing energy in its magnetic field. When the transistor turns off and interrupts the current, the magnetic field begins to collapse.

In response, the coil resists the sudden change, causing a rapid rise in voltage across the secondary winding, ultimately generating the high-voltage spark needed for ignition. It’s enough to ionize the air to create a spark.

Back to the subject matter, when driving the ignition coil through either an IGBT or a MOSFET, try experimenting with appropriate square wave pulses. Start with low frequencies around 150 to 350 Hz and duty cycles between 25% and 45% (just to get a feel for the response).

Heads up! Touching the high voltage from the ignition coil will definitely sting. It won’t kill you, but it will make you regret it.

That wraps up this post. I have got plenty more practical tips and insights lined up, so expect fresh content soon. This is just one piece of a much larger puzzle.

Finally, please note that this article is intended purely for informational and educational purposes. It does not promote, endorse, or commercially affiliate with any product, brand, or service mentioned. No sponsorships, no hidden agendas—just straight-up knowledge for curious minds.

T. K. Hareendran is a self-taught electronics enthusiast with a strong passion for innovative circuit design and hands-on technology. He develops both experimental and practical electronic projects, documenting and sharing his work to support fellow tinkerers and learners. Beyond the workbench, he dedicates time to technical writing and hardware evaluations to contribute meaningfully to the maker community.

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The post Hands-on with hobby-grade arc generator modules appeared first on EDN.

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Infineon Technologies AG announced that its AIROC CYW20829 Bluetooth LE microcontroller (MCU) and Software Development kit (SDK) are now verified as part of the Engineered for Intel Evo laptop accessory program, the first of its kind in the Bluetooth human interface device (HID) industry. Through this collaboration with Intel, vendors developing next generation HID devices can confidently “ditch the dongle” using CYW20829. With this new solution, designers can achieve a best-in-class direct-to-host connection which has been rigorously tested against Intel’s strict KPIs and experience requirements.

“At Infineon, we strive to provide a leading wireless experience and convenience to consumers and designers,” said Shantanu Bhalerao, Vice President of Wireless Products at Infineon Technologies. “With over two decades of wireless HID experience, we are delighted to support the Engineered for Intel Evo program with our CYW20829, optimizing the user experience for both vendors and customers by helping them to truly eliminate the dongle.”

The Intel Evo platform is Intel’s superior consumer brand for premium laptops. Designed to provide a premium computing experience, laptop designs that meet the Intel Evo requirements undergo rigorous testing measurement and verification to ensure they deliver exemplary performance in terms of responsiveness, battery life, charging capability, form factor, and more. Engineered for Intel Evo Laptop Accessories Program defines strict Intel requirements for Bluetooth PC Peripherals, maximizing the end-to-end user experience when paired with Intel Evo laptops.

“Wireless peripherals are essential ingredients for the execution of many of our day-to-day computing activities,” said Eric McLaughlin, VP & GM, Connectivity Solutions Group at Intel Corporation. “For this reason, Intel works closely with key partners to ensure their devices meet technical requirements in the areas of performance, reliability, and ease of use. We’re excited that the Engineered for Intel Evo accessory program is expanding to include Infineon’s AIROC CYW20829 Bluetooth LE MCU and SDK, further extending Intel’s industry collaboration towards the goal of enabling amazing end-to-end connected user experiences.”

Infineon’s CYW20829 Bluetooth LE microcontroller (MCU) was designed with HID applications in mind to include:

• RF Performance: Featuring a dual demodulator architecture, long-standing Rx Blocker IP, and link budget of 108 dB, CYW20829 delivers unprecedented wireless robustness.
• Power Optimization: CYW20829 delivers up to 20 percent better battery life over leading devices in the market through its ARM Cortex-M33 clocking at 48 or 96 MHz, hardware keyscan matrix to buffer user inputs without core activation, and superb Tx & Rx current consumption.
• Cost: Highly integrated and unburdened with unnecessary peripherals, the CYW20829 is cost competitive with low-cost package offerings and the ability to route on 2-layer non-HDI PCB.
• Security: CYW20829 features support for the emerging Cyber Resiliency Act (CRA) and Radio Equipment Directive (RED) security regulations which will be mandatory for wireless products being sold on the European market.
• Zephyr: Enabled and supported on CYW20829, Zephyr addresses the growing number of OEMs leveraging the operating system.

The post Infineon AIROC CYW20829 to support Engineered for Intel Evo Laptop Accessories Program appeared first on ELE Times.

The best substation training program gives energy professionals the tools and knowledge to navigate the complexity of modern power systems. This sector involves advanced technology and evolving regulations that demand precision and adaptability. These programs focus on the real-world skills to keep operations safe, reliable and compliant with industry standards. 

Substations serve as critical hubs in the power grid, and even small errors can lead to costly downtime or serious safety risks. This makes specialized training a must for technicians and engineers. Combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of safety protocols prepares professionals to work confidently with high-voltage equipment, adapt to new digital systems and meet the regulatory demands of the energy sector.

• TRC Power Academy

TRC Power Academy is a top-tier training provider for substation professionals, thanks to its industry-aligned, hands-on approach that mirrors real utility environments. It has a cutting-edge training center in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, with a full-scale mock substation, complete with control house, yard, circuit-breaker and transformer simulators. Its facilities let engineers and technicians learn in a safe yet realistic setting.

Backed by experienced utility engineers, its courses cover relay protection, substation drawings, power transformers and outage planning. These programs are delivered through instructor-led sessions and self-paced online modules that meet the International Electrical Testing Association (NETA) standards. 

Beyond fundamentals, TRC Power Academy includes a 10-week training sequence followed by six months of field application and advanced refresher sessions. This rare opportunity fosters real professional connections while reinforcing safety and technical consistency. For energy and inspection professionals who want deep learning in a practical, engaging environment, TRC Power Academy delivers with clarity, credibility and career-building momentum.

• Siemens Power Academy

Siemens Power Academy offers users a highly interactive and expert training experience tailored to energy professionals. It offers more than 300 curated courses — including core substation automation, protection, digital substations and cybersecurity — through hands-on workshops, virtual sessions and simulation-based options.

Its structured course catalog spans crucial topics, such as substation automation, distributed energy automation, self-consistent-charge parameterization and Process Bus integration. It covers station- and process-level digital substation design and cutting-edge modules on microgrids, grid planning and smart communication systems.

Participants benefit from training personalization through Siemens’ consultative approach, which ensures each learner’s unique goals align with their curriculum. They can enjoy flexible delivery formats — classroom, on-site, e‑learning or simulator‑based — to fit different learning styles and schedules. For professionals in energy and inspection services seeking advanced, credible and future-ready training, Siemens offers the depth in substation technology and delivery flexibility to stay ahead in the field.

• GE Digital Energy Training Programs

The GE Digital Energy Training Program is an exceptional partner for substation training because it offers a comprehensive and flexible learning ecosystem that blends technical depth with real-world relevance. Its global network of technical institutes delivers hands‑on courses in electrical grid safety, equipment operations, protection, control and network management. These programs are taught by seasoned experts using full‑size gas-insulated bays, air-insulated substation components and real equipment to bridge theory with practice.

Participants can undergo modern training formats, including virtual reality modules that simulate real-world procedures, modular classroom instruction and customizable certification tracks. Courses cover various topics such as gas-insulated substation fundamentals, digital substation systems and high‑voltage substation environments. These modules deliver practical skills and theoretical understanding in formats tailored to engineers and new professionals.

The GE Digital Energy Training Programs come with assessments and certification, which ensure learning matches individual needs and modern delivery preferences. It equips energy and inspection professionals with cutting-edge, adaptable training that builds competence and career momentum.

• ABB Power Grids Learning Center

ABB Power Grids Learning Center provides a robust training ecosystem through its ABB University. It offers targeted programs on digital substation products and modern protection systems. These programs offer flexible delivery — interactive classroom sessions, e-learning, webinars and fully tailored on-site courses — so learners can engage in the format that best fits their goals.

Trainees gain hands-on access to protection and control relays with the guidance of expert trainers. They can master everything, such as basic relay operations, advanced engineering, application specifics and critical topics like cybersecurity and fault management. ABB’s commitment to customization ensures its training comes in multiple languages and is delivered securely via VPN when necessary.

ABB offers up-to-date course content, global accessibility, a practical focus and a strong emphasis on safe, reliable system operation. With its legacy of innovation behind it, its training stands out as a compelling choice for professionals aiming to boost their substation expertise and operational confidence.

• Eaton Electrical Engineering Services & Training

Eaton Electrical Engineering Services & Training delivers exceptional substation and electrical training. Its experience centers give energy professionals a versatile, high-impact learning path in real-world environments. With over a century of expertise in power systems and decades of hands-on experience, Eaton combines deep industry knowledge with flexible course formats. 

It offers in‑person instruction at world-class facilities in Pittsburgh and Houston, remote instruction, eLearning and even virtual simulations. Learners can train anywhere on topics like power distribution equipment, testing, safety, relay and transformer maintenance, compliance, and arc flash protection. Its instructors are seasoned field engineers who actively shape industry safety standards, which ensures training stays current and authoritative. 

Eaton’s hands-on offerings include courses like Basic Protective Relay Testing, Transformer Startup and Maintenance, Power Quality Monitoring and Analysis, and Electrical and Arc Flash Safety. It blends practical insight, recognized credentials and schedule-friendly delivery, making it a smart, credible choice for substation-focused learning in the energy and inspection sector.

• Megger Training Services

Megger Training Services equips technicians and apprentices with hands‑on skills and solid technical know‑how. Its Substation Maintenance I course guides participants in safely maintaining and testing industrial and utility substation equipment. It includes immersive lab sessions focused on medium-voltage circuit breakers and switchgear, which help learners spot weak components and ensure operational readiness.

For those ready to level up, Substation Maintenance II provides advanced training centered on transformer-related operations, expanding on the foundational skills from the first course. These courses feed into a robust Substation Technician Certification program that validates mastery in maintaining breakers, transformers, safety protocols and relevant OSHA standards.

Beyond classroom training, Megger enhances ongoing skill development via expert-led webinars and a rich online knowledge hub with technical articles and support. Megger combines practical, high-impact classroom experiences with accessible learning tools and recognized credentials. It gives energy professionals the tools, confidence and recognition they need to excel in substation operations.

• Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) University

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) University delivers a standout substation training experience. It equips engineers and managers with a full spectrum of learning options, including in-person, virtual and self-paced e-learning formats to suit every schedule and learning preference.

Its programs span a range of specialized courses. The Transmission Substation Relay Testing class teaches learners to input settings, test, commission and troubleshoot relays via immersive exercises. Meanwhile, Substation Equipment Protection dives deep into protection schemes for high-voltage transformers, buses, capacitor banks and reactors. It includes real-world fault analysis and relay setting calculations.

Beyond course delivery, SEL diligently instills real-world safety. Its Charlotte facility features a simulator of a substation control house and yard where staff train on hazard avoidance in realistic scenarios. SEL University offers unmatched expertise, credibility and adaptability in substation education. It’s ideal for energy and inspection professionals seeking deep, practical and grounded in real control environments.

• American Public Power Association (APPA) Academy

The American Public Power Association (APPA) Academy supports public power utilities with tailored workforce development. It offers in‑person seminars, certificate programs, webinars and on-demand training that often include critical substation safety and maintenance content in its utility-focused courses.

For example, Snohomish County Public Utilities District hosted a five‑day course blending electrical theory and hands‑on training. It taught technicians how to test equipment and identify trends that signal imminent failure, which reinforces reliability and safety in substation operations. Working with APPA, the Missouri Public Utility Alliance also launched a two‑week apprenticeship that includes substation safety training. It helped apprentices gain real‑world substation skills alongside foundational distribution practices.

Alongside supportive resources like the APPA Safety Manual, these offerings make APPA a valuable ally for utilities aiming to elevate substation training, maintain compliance and reinforce safety. Engaging with APPA and its network means tapping into community-curated tools, collaborative training opportunities and up-to-date safety frameworks that help energy and inspection professionals.

• Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) Training Programs

The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) Training Programs offer impressive, on-demand webinars and workshops tailored to substation topics. These include dissolved gas analysis, partial discharge detection, transformer monitoring and circuit-breaker restrike explanations. Each program delivers deep technical insight in a flexible, self-paced format.

These training modules blend research-backed content with real-world application. They are ideal for energy and inspection professionals seeking to sharpen their expertise on transformer condition monitoring, substation equipment behavior or fault detection methods. Further, EPRI offers instructor-led workshops like the Substation Ground Grid Inspection Workshop, delivering hands-on inspection techniques and peer-to-peer learning that bring theory to life.

As a nonprofit research authority, EPRI delivers up-to-date best practices rooted in industry science and innovation. It’s a smart, credible choice for professionals who value evidence-based learning and want to stay ahead in substation operations and reliability.

Skills and Competencies Gained From Substation Training

The best substation training program gives energy professionals the well-rounded expertise to excel in the power industry. It builds technical competencies by teaching precise equipment operation, thorough switchgear maintenance and the intricate workings of relay protection systems.

Safety and compliance are woven into every lesson, with practical instruction in electrical hazard awareness, lockout/tagout procedures and arc flash protection that keeps people and infrastructure secure. Learners also develop sharp inspection and testing skills, using diagnostic tools, thermography and proper gas handling to spot issues before they escalate.

To future-proof their careers, participants gain insight into emerging technologies like digital substations, smart monitoring systems and remote diagnostics. These skills align with the industry’s shift toward smarter, more connected grids. By blending hands-on practice with forward-looking knowledge, the best programs ensure professionals can work confidently, meet compliance demands and adapt to whatever the grid’s future holds.

Maximizing Career Impact From the Best Substation Training Program

Certifications from reputable training programs are powerful career accelerators in the energy sector. They signal to employers and clients that a professional meets recognized industry standards and has the skills to handle complex, high-stakes work. They often open doors to higher-level positions, specialized project assignments and increased earning potential. 

Many training providers also foster valuable networking opportunities, which connect participants with peers, industry veterans and potential employers through workshops and alumni networks. These connections can lead to collaborations, mentorships and job referrals that would be hard to find otherwise. 

Ongoing certification also helps professionals stay ahead of compliance and safety requirements. It ensures their work practices align with evolving regulations, technical standards and industry best practices, keeping careers and operations future-ready.

Industry Trends Shaping Substation Training

The best substation training program prepares professionals to thrive in a sector reshaped by digitalization and automation, and they use smart systems to streamline operations and boost efficiency. Participants learn to work with AI-driven monitoring tools that enhance predictive maintenance, detect faults in real time and improve grid reliability.

With renewables integration and energy storage transforming how substations balance supply and demand, the program equips learners with the skills to manage these new complexities while maintaining stability and compliance. It also embraces the post-pandemic shift toward remote training technologies, offering interactive virtual simulations and online modules that make advanced learning accessible without sacrificing hands-on experience.

How to Choose the Best Substation Training Program

Choosing the right substation training program can significantly impact your career growth, technical skills and safety expertise. With so many options available, evaluating each program based on your professional goals, industry requirements and preferred learning style is important. The best choice will deepen your technical knowledge and provide recognized credentials and practical experience that translate directly to your work in the field.

• Check industry recognition and accreditation: Ensure the program is backed by reputable organizations and aligns with standards from bodies like NETA or OSHA.
• Look for experienced instructors: Choose providers whose trainers have real-world substation and utility experience.
• Evaluate hands-on training opportunities: Prioritize programs that offer lab work, equipment simulations or on-site practice to apply concepts in realistic scenarios.
• Confirm coverage of compliance and safety: Make sure the curriculum includes current safety protocols and hazard mitigation strategies.
• Review available learning formats: Select a delivery method that fits your schedule and learning style.
• Assess technology and facilities: For in-person training, look for modern equipment and simulation setups that mirror real substation environments.
• Consider post-training support: See if the provider offers refresher courses, alum networks or ongoing technical resources.
• Match the program to your career stage: Beginners may need foundational courses, while seasoned professionals might benefit more from advanced or specialized modules.

Staying Ahead Through Continuous Substation Training

Continuous learning in substation operations ensures professionals stay ahead of technologies, safety standards and regulatory requirements. You gain skills that strengthen performance and career growth by choosing the best substation training program. Evaluate programs based on current industry demands and the competencies you will need for the future.

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An Aston University-led initiative aims to turn existing telecom cables in railways into real-time early warning systems for structural failures.

Nice day-off project. When you press the button, the 5v regulator switches on. This powers the 555 timer pulses an IR LED with an audible frequency. When the photodiode picks up the reflected pulses, an AC voltage increases on the last pin (next to the laying-down capacitor), with respect to ground. Connecting a small speaker allows for a tone rising in volume the closer an object is. I know it's pretty dated style, but I just really love using nothing more than a pin-out diagram for the components, and going from there. I start by placing the button and a regulator, and then the smoothing capacitors, then the power LED and its power limiting resistor. From there I add the 555 socket, and go pin by bin, seeing where they need to be connected. Once that's sorted, I use an IN4001 diode to charge a pair of capacitors for another noise decoupled supply which powers the photodiode and transistor amplifier pair. This was made on stripboard, so each column is common, except for where I cut the traces under the 555 socket, to prevent pins 1-8, 2-7, etc from being shorted together. submitted by /u/One-Cardiologist-462 [link] [comments]

submitted by /u/Elvenblood7E7 [link] [comments]

Toshiba’s SOP Advance(E) package yields lower losses and better thermal performance.

Mmm capacitor juice and grime. Series Ten Mixer btw :3 submitted by /u/XDFreakLP [link] [comments]

Increasing ADC resolution

Many electronic designs contain an ADC, or more than one, to read various signals and voltages. Often, these ADCs are included as part of the microcontroller (MCU) being used. This means, once you pick your MCU, you have chosen the maximum resolution (calculated from the number of bits in the ADC and the reference) you will have for taking a reading.

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

What happens if, later in the design, you find out you need slightly more resolution from the ADC? Not to worry, there are some simple ways to improve the resolution of the sampled data. I discussed one method in a previous EDN Design Idea (DI), “Adaptive resolution for ADCs,” which talked about changing the reference voltage, so I won’t discuss that here. Another way of improving the resolution is through the concept of oversampling.

A simple version of oversampling

Let’s first look at a method that is essentially a simplified version of oversampling…averaging. (Most embedded programmers have used averaging to improve their readings, sometimes with the thought of minimizing the effects of bad readings and not thinking about improving resolution.)

So, suppose you’re taking a temperature reading from a sensor once a second. Now, to get a better resolution of the temperature, take the reading every 500 ms and average the two readings together. This will give you another ½-bit of resolution (we’ll show the math later). Let’s go further—take readings every 250 ms and average four readings. This will give you a whole extra bit of resolution.

If you have an 8-bit ADC and it is scaled to read 0 to 255 degrees with 1-degree resolution, you will now have a virtual 9-bit ADC capable of returning readings of 0 to 255.5 degrees with 0.5-degree resolution. If you average 16 readings, you will create a virtual 10-bit ADC from your 8-bit ADC. The 64-averaged reading will create an 11-bit virtual ADC by improving your 8-bit ADC with three extra bits, thereby giving you a resolution of one part in 2048 (or, in the temperature sensor example, a resolution of about 0.12 degrees).

A formula for averaging

The formula for extra bits versus the number of samples averaged is:

Number of samples averaged = M
Number of virtual bits created = b
M = 4b
If you want to solve for b given M: b = log4(M)
Or, b = (1/ log2(4)) * log2(M) = log2(M)/2

You may be scratching your head, wondering where that formula comes from. First, let’s think about the readings we are averaging. They consist of two parts. The first is the true, clean reading the sensor is trying to give us. The second part is the noise that we pick up from extraneous signals on the wiring, power supplies, components, etc. (These two signal parts combine in an additive way.)

We will assume that this noise is Gaussian (statistically normally distributed; often shown as a bell curve; sometimes referred to as white noise) and uncorrelated to our sample rate. Now, when taking the average, we first sum up the readings. The clean readings from the sensor will obviously sum up in a typical mathematical way. In the noise part, though, the standard deviation of the sum is the square root of the sum of the standard deviations. In other words, the clean part increases linearly, and the noise part increases as the square root of the number of readings.

What this means is that not only is the resolution increased, but the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) would improve by M/sqrt(M), which mathematically reduces to sqrt(M). In simpler terms, the averaged reading SNR improves by the square root of the number of samples averaged. So, if we take four readings, the average SNR improves by 2, or the equivalent of one more bit in the ADC (an 8-bit ADC performs as a 9-bit ADC).

Averaging downsides

I have used averaging in many pieces of firmware, but it’s not always the best solution. As was said before, your sensor connection is passing your ADC a good signal with some noise added to it. Simple averaging is not always the best solution. One issue is the slow roll-off in the frequency domain. Also, the stopband attenuation is not very good. Both of these issues indicate that averaging allows a good portion of the noise to enter your signal. So, we may have increased the resolution of the reading, but have not removed all the noise from the signal we can.

Reducing the noise

To reduce this noise, that is spread over the full frequency spectrum coming down the sensor wire, you may want to apply an actual lowpass filter (LPF) to the signal. This can be done as a hardware LPF applied before the ADC or it can be a digital LPF applied after the ADC, or it can be both. (Oversampling makes the design of these filters easier as the roll-off can be less steep.)

There are many types of digital filters but the two major ones are the finite impulse response (FIR) and the infinite impulse response (IIR). I won’t go into the details of these filters here, but just say that these can be designed using tradeoffs of bandpass frequency, roll-off rate, ripple, phase shift, etc.

A more advanced approach to oversampling

So, let’s look at a design to create a more advanced oversampling system. Figure 1 shows a typical layout for a more “formal”, and better oversampling design. 

Figure 1 A typical oversampling block diagram with an antialiasing filter, ADC, digital LPF, and decimation (down-sampling).

We start by filtering the incoming signal with an analog hardware LPF (often referred to as an antialiasing filter). This filter is typically designed to filter the incoming desired signal at just above the frequency of interest.

The ADC then samples the signal at a rate many times (M) the frequency of interest’s Nyquist rate. Then, in the system’s firmware, the incoming sample stream is again low-pass filtered with a digital filter (typically an FIR or IIR) to further remove the signal’s Gaussian noise as well as the quantization noise created during the ADC operation. (Various filter designs can also be useful for other kinds of noise, such as impulse noise, burst noise, etc.) Oversampling gave us the benefit of spreading the noise over the wide oversample bandwidth, and our digital lowpass filter can remove much of this.

Next, we decimate the signal’s data stream. Decimation (also known as down-sampling) is simply the act of now only using every 2nd, or 3rd, or 4th, up to every Mth sample, and tossing the rest. This is safe due to oversampling and the lowpass filters, so we won’t alias much noise into the lower sample rate signal. Decimation essentially reduces the bandwidth as represented by the remaining samples. Further processing now requires less processing power as the number of samples is significantly reduced.

It works

This stuff really works. I once worked on a design that required us to receive very small signals being transmitted on a power line (< 1 W). The signal was attenuated by capacitors on the lines, various transformers, and all the customer’s devices plugged into the powerline. The signal to be received was around 10 µV riding on the 240-VAC line. We ended up oversampling by around 75 million times the Nyquist rate and were able to successfully receive the transmissions at over 100 miles from the transmitter.

Damian Bonicatto is a consulting engineer with decades of experience in embedded hardware, firmware, and system design. He holds over 30 patents.

Phoenix Bonicatto is a freelance writer.

Related Content

• Adaptive resolution for ADCs
• Understanding noise, ENOB, and effective resolution in ADCs
• How do ADCs work?
• Understand key ADC specs

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