Новини світу мікро- та наноелектроніки

Nuvoton Technology unveiled the next-generation high-performance NuMicro M463 microcontroller series. This series features a 200 MHz Arm Cortex-M4 processor, expanding the operating temperature range from -40 °C to 125 °C to meet rigorous high-temperature environmental requirements, ensuring stable operation under extreme conditions. In addition to its wide temperature range, the series offers rich peripheral interfaces, including dual CAN-FD and HS USB communication functions, along with 256 KB programmable memory and 128 KB SRAM for sufficient storage and operational space, providing reliable and efficient solutions for future automotive electronics supply chain and industrial applications.

Additionally, the NuMicro M463 series achieves ultra-low power consumption below 200 nA. It accommodates different power and customer requirements by supporting various power operating modes and diverse wake-up interfaces. Equipped with a built-in DSP instruction set and a single-precision floating-point arithmetic unit (FPU), the series provides robust support for industrial control, automotive electronics peripherals, and other applications.

The M463 series includes a range of peripheral functions, such as hardware encryption/decryption engines, hardware key stores, TRNG (True Random Number Generator), Secure Boot (providing root of trust functionality), 2 sets of CAN FD, 1 set of USB high-speed OTG, up to 24 channels of 16-bit PWM output, 8 UARTs, 4 SPI/I2S, 2 Quad-SPI, 5 I²C, and a real-time clock (RTC). It also integrates numerous analog components, including 2 sets of analog comparators and a 12-bit, 16-channel SAR ADC.

Nuvoton offers the M463 series with the NuMaker-M463KG development board and Nu-Link debugger tools. Compatible with various development environments such as Keil MDK, IAR EWARM, Eclipse IDE with GNU GCC, etc., these tools facilitate developers in seamlessly creating, debugging, and deploying applications, streamlining the product launch process.

The NuMicro M463 microcontroller series reinforces Nuvoton’s leading position in the microcontroller field, with a commitment to delivering high-performance, high-security products that meet customer needs in a dynamically evolving market while continuously driving innovation in microcontroller technology.

For detailed specifications, visit https://www.nuvoton.com/products/microcontrollers/arm-cortex-m4-mcus/m463-can-fd-usb-hs-series/.

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Chogori, a trailblazer in interconnect solutions for electric 2-wheelers (2Ws) and 3-wheelers (3Ws), has proudly launched the ES-CT6, a cutting-edge charging solution set to transform the landscape of electric vehicle (EV) charging.

The ES-CT6, comprising a groundbreaking charging gun and inlet, is poised to redefine the entire electric vehicle charging experience. As an essential component of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), Chogori’s meticulously crafted charging gun prioritizes factors such as form factor, electrical isolation, and adherence to government regulations, and protocols, resulting in a product that surpasses the highest industry standards.

Key Features of the ES-CT6 Charging Solution:

• Compliance with IEC 62196 – 6
• Alignment with IS 17017 (Part-2, Sec: 6)
• Complete knockdown (CKD) design for localized cable assembly
• Compact design facilitating easy under-seat storage
• Superior product quality ensuring unparalleled reliability

Technical Specifications:

• Rated Voltage: 120 V DC
• Rated Current: 25 Amperes
• Ingress Protection: IP 55
• Mating Cycles: ≥ 10,000
• Cable Cross Section: 12 AWG ~ 14 AWG (Power)

Chogori’s dedication to meet evolving regulations and industry standards is evident in the ES-CT6’s complete knockdown (CKD) design, which facilitates localized cable assembly, enhancing convenience for manufacturers and service providers.

Designed to cater to a diverse range of electric vehicle segments, including electric two-wheelers, electric three-wheelers, and charging infrastructure companies, the ES-CT6 boasts standout features such as interoperability. This unique characteristic enables Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to share their charging networks across brands, fostering collaboration and expediting the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

The post Revolutionary Electric Vehicle Charging Breakthrough Unveiled by Chogori: Introducing the ES-CT6 Charging Solution appeared first on ELE Times.

Awhile back I published a simple design idea for a thermal airspeed sensor based on a self-heated Darlington transistor pair. See Figure 1.

Figure 1 Older design idea with self-heated Darlington thermal airflow sensor.

In the circuit, Q1 plays the role of self-heated sensor. Its Vbe tempco converts temperature into voltage which is then offset and scaled by A2 to a 5 V span. Meanwhile 200 mV reference A1 regulates Q1’s heating current to 0.2 V/R3 = 67 mA, for a constant power dissipation of 67 mA * 4.8 V = 320 mW. The resulting ambient vs junction temperature differential provides an airspeed readout as it’s cooled from a delta T above ambient of 64oC at 0 fpm, down to 22oC at 2000 fpm.

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

The resulting sensor is simple, sensitive, and solid-state, but suffers from a radically nonlinear airspeed response, as shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2 Vout versus airspeed response of thermal sensor is very nonlinear.

An astute and helpful suggestion from reader Konstantin Kim resulted in the anti-log linearization VFC shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3 Anti-log linearizing VFC.

Figure 3 makes a useful improvement on linearity shown as Figure 4’s blue curve, but its lingering ~12% of FS error at mid-span is decidedly still far from perfect.

Figure 4 Airspeed response linearity of Figure 3’s anti-log VFC is better but still un-terrific.

Veteran DI contributor Jordan Dimitrov noticed this shortcoming and provided an elegant computational numerical solution that virtually obliterates the problem and makes the net response all but perfectly linear, in his Proper function linearizes a hot transistor anemometer with less than 0.2 % error design idea.

Nicely done, Mr. Dimitrov!

However, a consequence of performing linearization in the digital domain after analog-to-digital conversion instead of doing it in analog before conversion, is a significant increase in necessary ADC resolution, i.e., from 11 bits to 15. 

Here’s why.

Acquisition of a linear 0 to 2000 fpm airspeed signal resolved to 1 fpm would require an ADC resolution of 1 in 2000 = 11 bits.  But inspection of Figure 2’s curve reveals that, while the full-scale span of the airspeed signal is 5 V, the signal change associated with an airspeed increment of 1999 fpm to 2000 fpm is only 0.2 mV. Thus, to keep the former on scale while resolving the latter would require a minimum ADC resolution of 1 in 5 / 0.0002 = 1 in 25,000 = 14.6 bits.

15-bit (and higher resolution) ADCs are neither rare nor especially expensive, but they’re not usually integrated peripherals inside microcontrollers as mentioned in Mr. Dimitrov’s article. So, it seems plausible that a significant cost might be associated with provision of an ADC with resolution adequate for his design.

This prompted me to wonder whether a better performing analog linearization scheme might be feasible. If so and if not too complicated or costly to implement, it could provide an alternative to the digital solution with similar performance but without the need for a high resolution ADC. Turned out, it was. Figure 5 shows how.

Figure 5 Adding one resistor (R6) and adjusting another (R1) ironed out the bump in Figure 3’s analog linearizing.

Key to the linearity improvement is added resistor R6. It works by reducing the amplitude of the sawtooth timing waveform at the 555’s pin 2 by making it trigger early by an amount proportional to anti-log Q2’s collector current. This shortens VFC period and raises VFC frequency by a nonlinearity-correcting factor and results in Figure 6.

The resulting airspeed function deviates from perfect linearity by only -0.4% to +0.2% = -8 to +4 fpm as shown in Figure 6 and Figure 7 (expanded scale).

Figure 6 Improved analog linearity resulting from VFC modifications shown by overlaid blue and black lines.

 Figure 7 Magnified residual linearity error shown in Figure 6.

Admittedly this is certainly not as good as Mr. Dimitrov’s impressive post-conversion numerical result but is perhaps still acceptable for a simple analog solution. At any rate, as a practical matter, it’s better than any reasonable expectation for sensor accuracy, that the difference would seem of mostly academic interest only.

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

• Nonlinearities of Darlington airflow sensor and VFC compensate each other
• Proper function linearizes a hot transistor anemometer with less than 0.2 % error
• Linearized portable anemometer with thermostated Darlington pair
• Transistor linearly digitizes airflow

The post Adding one resistor improves anemometer analog linearity to better than +/-0.5% appeared first on EDN.

The big three of the EDA industry—Cadence, Siemens EDA, and Synopsys—largely owe their ‘big boys’ status to a plethora of small acquisitions. However, the news about Synopsys acquiring Ansys seems to be a different affair. While Synopsys has a market valuation of $85 billion, Ansys has a market cap of nearly $26 billion.

The news about Synopsys’ potential deal to buy Ansys for over $400 per share first appeared on Bloomberg late Thursday, 21 December. However, according to a Wall Street Journal report published on Friday, there could also be other suitors. It could be another EDA industry heavyweight like Cadence or a redux of Siemens acquiring Mentor Graphics to expand its design arsenal.

Figure 1 Ansys develops, markets, and supports software solutions for design analysis and optimization.

Ansys, based in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, provides simulation software solutions for product design and testing. Founded by John Swanson by the name of Swanson Analysis Systems Inc. (SASI) in 1970, it was acquired by venture capital firm T.A. Associates in 1994. The company then changed its name to Ansys and went public in 1996.

Over the years, Ansys has made its name as a supplier of multiphysics engineering simulation technologies that enable engineers to simulate the interactions between structures, heat transfer, fluids, electronics, and optical elements in a unified engineering environment.

It’s also worth noting that the news about this potential deal comes when Synopsys co-founder Aart de Geus is about to move to the executive chairman role while handing over the CEO job to his protégé Sassine Ghazi. The transition will come into effect on January 1, 2024.

Moreover, as has often been happening recently, Synopsys and Ansys first warmed up their ties by inking a strategic partnership. The two EDA outfits have recently partnered to offer signoff solutions for system-on-chips (SoCs) as well as 2.5D and 3D ICs. As part of this strategic alliance, Ansys has integrated its RedHawk-SC family of power integrity, thermal, and reliability signoff products with Synopsys’ Fusion Compiler platform, 3DIC Compiler platform, and PrimeTime signoff platform.

Figure 2 Ansys signoff solutions are certified for all FinFET nodes down to 3 nm.

Ansys’ acquisition by Synopsys is still a work in progress, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming days. But if this deal pushes through, it will probably be an important event in the electronics design industry in 2024. It could also significantly impact the EDA industry in specific and IC design landscape in general.

Related Content

• Ansys, Inc. Acquires Ansoft Corporation
• Analysis: Acquisitions reflect broadening view of EDA
• Expect aftershocks from Synopsys’ Magma acquisition
• Synopsys Acquires RISC-V Processor Simulation Tools Firm
• Electromagnetic Simulation Tools Help Optimize Chip Design

The post Synopsys plus Ansys: The making of an EDA giant? appeared first on EDN.

Yamaichi Electronics introduces an advanced iteration of its YFLEX flexible printed circuit board (FPC), specifically engineered to thrive in extreme conditions prevalent in industries such as automotive, semiconductor manufacturing, and test and measurement technology. This cutting-edge FPC raises the bar for performance, boasting exceptional heat resistance, enhanced insulating layers, and versatile adaptability across diverse applications.

Key Features:

1. Extreme Temperature Resilience:

• The FPC can withstand temperatures up to a remarkable 150°C, ensuring consistent performance in the most challenging environments.
• Electrical properties are maintained for over 3,000 hours at elevated temperatures, attesting to its robust durability.

2. Consistent Electrical Performance:

• Continuity resistance remains unwavering within a rate of change of ±10%, providing reliable electrical performance under extreme conditions.
• Impressive insulation resistance of 500 MΩ or higher, even in high-temperature settings, ensures steadfast functionality.

3. Enhanced Adhesion and Durability:

• Upgraded insulating layers with a specialized cover layer contribute to enhanced adhesion, reinforcing the durability of the FPC.
• The FPC’s design ensures dependable performance in harsh environments where traditional circuits may falter.

4. Versatility and Customization:

• The FPC’s adaptability extends to various applications, offering configurations in both single- and double-layer designs to meet diverse needs.
• Insulation substrate base material options, including liquid crystal polymer (LCP) and polyimide (PI), allow for optimal customization based on specific application requirements.

5. Reinforced Ground Design:

• Featuring a reinforced ground (GND) design, the FPC not only excels in high-heat-resistant applications but also effectively mitigates noise-related issues.

This High-Heat Resistant FPC marks a substantial stride in flexible printed circuit board technology. Its outstanding heat resistance, improved insulating layers, and adaptability across various applications position it as a game-changer in industries where steadfast performance under extreme conditions is crucial. With global availability, this innovation is poised to make a profound impact across sectors, contributing to the continuous advancement of technology in the face of unparalleled challenges.

The post Yamaichi Electronics Unveils Breakthrough High-Heat Resistant Flexible Printed Circuit Board for Unyielding Environments appeared first on ELE Times.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) scanners have become a crucial tool in the ever-changing world of modern technology, completely changing the way we track and manage our assets. We’ll dive into the world of RFID scanners in this blog, looking at their types, features, uses, underlying technology, and benefits for different businesses.

An RFID scanner is a tool for reading and capturing data from RFID tags. RFID uses electromagnetic fields to convey data between a tag and a reader. It is a wireless communication technology. These tags, usually implanted in items or affixed to objects, have unique IDs that RFID readers may easily scan.

There are several types of RFID scanners, each designed for a particular need. RFID scanners come in two main types: portable and stationary. Because of their portability, handheld scanners are perfect for asset tracking and inventory management on the go. Conversely, fixed scanners are immovable and are frequently incorporated into automated tracking systems in manufacturing, retail, and logistics environments.

The electromagnetic induction theory explains the operation of RFID scanners. An RFID tag activates when it comes into contact with a reader, which then records the information kept in the tag’s memory. Radiofrequency waves are used to communicate between the tag and the reader, enabling speedy and effortless data transfer.

RFID scanners are being used in many different industries, and they have transformed operational efficiency. RFID scanners in retail simplify inventory management, cutting down on mistakes and improving stock level accuracy. These scanners help with real-time shipment tracking in logistics and supply chain management, guaranteeing accurate monitoring from warehouse to destination. RFID is used in healthcare to track medications and identify patients, and it is also used in access control systems to provide secure access in business settings.

RFID readers function within one of the two frequency bands: ultra-high frequency (UHF) or high frequency (HF). Applications needing shorter read ranges, such as payment systems and access control, frequently use HF RFID. UHF RFID is preferred in retail, inventory management, and logistics settings due to its extended scan ranges.

There are lots of advantages to using RFID scanners. Efficiency is one important advantage. Since several tags may be read at once with RFID scanners, labour and time requirements for tasks like inventory counting are greatly reduced. Because RFID scanning is accurate, fewer mistakes are made, which improves decision-making and inventory visibility.

RFID technology’s automation possibilities are another benefit. Automating processes that formerly required human data entry can lower the possibility of human error and free up important resources for more strategic work.

In conclusion, RFID scanners are now considered essential in today’s business environment because they provide a strong solution for inventory control, asset tracking, and a wide range of other uses. The future of many sectors will surely be greatly influenced by the adaptability and effectiveness of RFID scanners as technology advances.

The post RFID Scanners: Your Essential Guide to Smarter Business appeared first on ELE Times.