Новини світу мікро- та наноелектроніки

Multi-solar panel interconnections: Mind the electrons’ directions

EDN Network - Втр, 01/21/2025 - 18:13

The concluding post in a series; here’s part 1 (covering the Energizer PowerSource Pro Battery Generator) and part 2 (discussing its companion 200W portable solar panel)…

Eagle-eyed readers may have already noticed, within the listing for the Energizer Solar Bundle I bought at the beginning of September (and returned shortly thereafter), the following prose:

Pick up another 200-watt solar panel on SideDeal to max out the solar capacity of 400W (but do take note of these instructions)

That I did, for an incremental $179.99. It was (past tense usage because I ended up returning it, too) a “Duracell Heavy Duty 200-Watt Briefcase Solar Panel”, and it also came from Battery Biz. Here are some “stock” images:

Along with a bullet list of specs:

  • Brand: Duracell
  • Material: ‎Monocrystalline Silicon [editor note: claimed conversion efficiency of 22%]
  • Dimensions (unfolded): ‎55.2 x 36.5 x 1.3 in
  • Item Weight: ‎36.2 lbs
  • Maximum Power Point Voltage: ‎18.6 V
  • Maximum Power Point Current: 10.8 V
  • Open Circuit Voltage: 22.8 V
  • Short Circuit Current: 11.2 A
  • Maximum System Voltage (Vmax): 1000VDC
  • Normal Operating Cell Temperature (NOCT): 45±2°C
  • Temperature Range (°C): -40°C~+85°C
  • Power Tolerance: ±5%
  • Application Class: Class A
  • Included Components: ‎Panel
  • Maximum Power: ‎200 Watts
  • Manufacturer: ‎Duracell

When it arrived, the outer packaging was…err…already breached:

Thankfully, the box inside was still intact:

although, as you may have already noticed, the product image on the front didn’t match the “stock” shots, which left me a bit disconcerted before I even opened it.

Here’s the box backside:

Take the “unfolded” dimensions listed in the earlier bullet list, divide the largest by two, and you end up with an approximation of the data shown in this closeup image, which was reassuring:

Open the box, pull out the hefty contents (the promotional prose claims that you can “Experience the convenience of home no matter where you are with our lightweight and foldable solar panel” (foldable = yes, lightweight = not), and the “Zippered Carrying Case with Handle” conceptualized in the previous photo’s graphic is the first thing you’ll come across:

Chug a can of spinach, unzip the case and huff, puff and pull the bulky panel out:

Now undo the clips on the “handle” edge and unfold it:

Like I said, it looks nothing like the “stock” photos, although it ended up being fully functional.

I only realized after returning it that I’d neglected to snap a photo of the backside, so another closeup of the box will have to do:

The cable coming out of the back of the panel terminates in a pair of MC4 connectors:

The also-included adapter cable converts the MC4s into an Anderson PowerPole PP15-45 connector for use with the Energizer PowerSource Pro Battery Generator (along with other Anderson-compatible battery-based products, of course, including Duracell’s own):

Its measured open-circuit output voltage closely approximated the earlier-listed max spec:

and it did charge up the PowerSource Pro reasonably speedily in direct sunlight:

Had I been able to as-intended combine it with the Energizer solar panel, of course, the combo likely would have been speedier still from a charging-rate standpoint. But from my earlier writeup, you already know about the connector woes that prevented such an arrangement and resultant experiment. And since the other gear I’d bought ended up being subpar and sent back to the retailer, I had no other use for this panel, either, so it got returned for full refund, too.

That all said, for the remainder of this writeup I’d like to delve a bit deeper into the suggested dual-panel configuration linked to within the initial Meh teaser and replicated here:

To a first conceptual approximation, you can think of two (or more) solar panels as batteries. Connect them in series and you boost the effective output voltage. Tether them in parallel, conversely, and the aggregate output current goes up. That said, my research has enlightened me, they also exhibit important differences from batteries in both possible configurations. These variances derive from two fundamental keywords: batteries (ironically) and shade (i.e., “dark”).

Rarely if ever is the solar illumination of a single panel uniform, far from across multiple panels. This inconsistency is due to various factors, such as imperfect orientation versus the sun’s position of the moment in the sky, and the aforementioned shading caused by clouds, trees, and other partially-to-fully obscuring intermediate objects. For series-interconnected panels, illumination inconsistency means that the effective current you’ll be able to squeeze out of a multi-panel configuration is constrained by the least-illuminated panel in the chain. And you’ll of course also want to make sure that the aggregate voltage generated by the multi-panel series arrangement in full illumination doesn’t exceed the max input voltage of whatever it’s driving.

What about multi-panel parallel hookups such as the one recommended in the Energizer documentation? To tether them together requires a combiner cable such as this one I’d bought:

Minimally, you’ll want to ensure that the output voltages of both panels match (for reasons you’ll soon understand) and, this time, that the aggregate current generated by the multi-panel parallel arrangement in full illumination won’t exceed the max input current of whatever it’s driving. “What it’s driving” in my particular case was the Energizer PowerSource Pro Battery Generator, supposedly. Which is where the words “shade” and “battery” fully come to the fore.

Assume first that the combiner cable simply merges the panels’ respective positive and negative feeds, with no added intermediary electronics between them and the electrons’ destination. What happens, first, if all the parallel-connected panels are in shade (or to my earlier “dark” wording surrogate, it’s nighttime)? If the generator is already charged up, its battery pack’s voltage potential will be higher than that of the panels themselves, resulting in possible reverse current flow from the generator to the panels. Further, what happens if there’s an illumination discrepancy between the panels? Here again there’ll be a voltage potential differential, this time between them. And so, in this case, even if they’re still charging up the generator’s batteries as intended, there’ll also be charging-rate-inefficient (not to mention potentially damaging; keep reading) current flow from one panel to the other.

The result, described in this crowded diagram from the same combiner-cable listing on Amazon:

is what’s commonly referred to as a “hotspot” on one or all panels. Whether or not it negatively impacts panel operating lifetime is, judging from the online discussions I’ve auditioned, a topic of no shortage of debate, although I suspect that at least some folks who are skeptical are also naïve…which leads to my next point: how do you prevent (or at least minimize) reverse current flow back to one or both panels? With high power-tolerant diodes, I’d like to postulate.

Those folks who think you can direct-connect multiple panels in parallel with nothing but wire? What I suspect they don’t realize is that there are probably reverse current-suppressing diodes already in the panels, minimally one per but often also multiple (since each panel, particularly for large-area models, is comprised of multiple sub-panels stitched together within the common frame). The perhaps-already-obvious downside of this approach is that there’s a forward-bias voltage drop across each diode, which runs counter to the aspiration of pushing as much charge power as possible to the destination battery pack. To that point, I suspect this is precisely what this Amazon reviewer is experiencing (also check out the video at the source link):

So I can draw about 86 to 92 watts to my Jackery with the cable from the solar panel but as soon as I plug in the splitter, it drops down to about 60-70 watts. When I plug in both 100 watt solar panels, I get about 120-130 watts. So the splitter somehow loses power when hooked up.

If you look closely at the earlier “crowded diagram” you can see a blurry image of what the combiner cable’s circuitry supposedly looks like inside:

Prior to starting this writeup, I’d returned the original combiner cable I bought, since due to my in-parallel return of the Duracell and Energizer devices, I no longer needed the cable, either. But I’ve just re-bought one, to satisfy my own “what’s inside” research-induced curiosity, which I’ll share with you in a teardown to come. Until then, I welcome your thoughts in the comments!

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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EPC launches 3-phase BLDC motor drive inverter reference design

Semiconductor today - Втр, 01/21/2025 - 17:31
Efficient Power Conversion Corp (EPC) of El Segundo, CA, USA — which makes enhancement-mode gallium nitride on silicon (eGaN) power field-effect transistors (FETs) and integrated circuits for power management applications — has launched the EPC91104, a high-performance 3-phase brushless DC (BLDC) motor drive inverter reference design. The design is said to be suitable for powering compact, precision motors in humanoid robots, such as those used for wrist, finger and toe movements...

Lynred launches Eyesential SW shortwave IR sensor for machine vision

Semiconductor today - Втр, 01/21/2025 - 17:24
Lynred of Grenoble, France — which designs and makes infrared (IR) sensors for aerospace, defense and commercial applications — has launched Eyesential SW, its latest VGA-format shortwave infrared (SWIR) sensor for machine vision. Designed to offer the ideal cost-performance ratio for visible-like imaging to address specific performance needs in machine vision, Eyesential SW is said to have the performance and features sought by industry but at half the price of comparable IR sensors on the market. It also includes specific functions for spectroscopy applications, such as spectral line selection/deselection...

If you can't submit to this sub because you're getting a "You can't contribute to this community yet" message, please know that it's Reddit doing it, not the sub.

Reddit:Electronics - Втр, 01/21/2025 - 16:51

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(*) The focal point of a submission must be component-level electronic engineering, design, news, and circuits (with at least one active element: a semiconductor or a vacuum tube/valve).

(*) Questions not allowed.

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Anatomy of MCUs for motor control

EDN Network - Втр, 01/21/2025 - 16:49

Control MCUs increase performance and efficiency of motor control and power conversion systems by enabling real-time control of systems that need to respond to real-time events with minimal delay and low utilization. These MCUs are targeted at battery-powered applications with motors, large appliances, HVAC units, and power supplies for server farms and cloud computing centers.

Read full story at EDN’s sister publication, Planet Analog.

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Thorlabs acquires strategic partner Praevium Research

Semiconductor today - Втр, 01/21/2025 - 13:59
Vertically integrated photonics product maker Thorlabs Inc of Newton, NJ, USA has acquired Praevium Research Inc of Goleta, CA, USA, which was founded by Dr Vijay Jayaraman in 2001 and develops high-speed tunable vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). The two firms have been working together since 2008, when Praevium became a member of Thorlabs’ Strategic Partner Program...

US CHIPS Incentives Program awards finalized for Corning, Edwards Vacuum and Infinera

Semiconductor today - Пн, 01/20/2025 - 17:01
Under the CHIPS Incentives Program’s Funding Opportunity for Commercial Fabrication Facilities, the US Department of Commerce has finalized three separate awards of direct funding: up to $32m for Corning, up to $18m for Edwards Vacuum, and up to $93m for Infinera...

A beginner’s guide to power of IQ data and beauty of negative frequencies – Part 2

EDN Network - Пн, 01/20/2025 - 15:51
Introduction and editor’s note

This is a two-part series where DI authors Damian and Phoenix Bonicatto explore the IQ signal representation and negative frequencies. Part 1 explains the commonly used SDR IQ signal representation and negative frequencies without the complexity of math.

This final part (Part 2) presents a device that allows you to play with and display live SDR signal spectrums with negative frequencies.

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

Defining real and imaginary signals

Let’s start off with something I left out on purpose in Part 1, there are two more terms we will use: A “real” signal is a term used for the signal represented by the I data. “Imaginary” signal is the term used for the signal represented by the Q data. I left them out until now as they add to the obfuscation of the discussion. Just take them at face value as there is nothing imaginary about an “imaginary” signal.

The “I/Q Explorer” design

Okay, so what we are going to make is an Arduino Nano based device that can generate “real” and “imaginary” data (I and Q samples) per your settings of frequency, amplitude, and phase. Then it will display a spectrum showing positive and negative frequencies. We will not use the FFT feature of your scope, we will generate the spectrum in the MCU and send it out to the oscilloscope to form a trace in the shape of the spectrum. In fact, we will generate a spectrum for the real signal, imaginary signal, and the magnitude of the combination (this is the square root of the sum of the squares of the real and imaginary signals).

We will refer to this design as the I/Q Explorer (Figure 1).

Figure 1 The final I/Q Explorer design with an LCD for displaying menu items and values and a toggle switch to switch the scope between the time and frequency domains.

Let’s look at the schematic in Figure 2.

Figure 2 The schematic of the IQ Explorer device with an Arduino Nano, 4×20 LCD, two rotary encoders, a simple toggle switch, three analog outputs, three lines to go to the scope probes, a digital output, and BNC connectors.

You can see the I/Q Explorer has a relatively simple schematic. It’s based on an Arduino Nano and uses a 4×20 LCD for displaying menu items and values. The two rotary encoders are used to navigate through the menu and to change values. A simple toggle switch is used to change the scope view from the time domain to frequency domain. There are three analog outputs, created using PWM outputs and single pole RC low-pass filters. The three lines go to the scope probes (you don’t need to connect all three if you don’t have a 4-channel scope). There is also a digital output used as a trigger to sync the scope to the analog outputs. The only other electrical parts are two BNC connectors which can be used if you want to get signals from a signal generator, instead of the internal generated signals.

The test stand itself can be easily 3D printed (a link to the 3D files and Arduino code are at the end of the article). The test stand provides a place to mount the LCD, rotary encoders and the time/frequency switch. Two BNC connectors can be installed on the left side. On the right side is a place to install four wires that will be used to clip the scope probe on (you also need to clip one of the leads to a ground). The rest on the circuitry can be laid out on a small solderless breadboard. The breadboard then fits on the back of the test stand. A document showing more images, BOM, and additional instructions can be found in the download from the link at the end of the article.

Using the I/Q Explorer

Ok, what can you do with it now? First, the left side of the test stand has four bare wires that are used to connect the scope probes (also connect one scope probe ground to digital ground on the breadboard. The top wire is the real data, the next one down is the imaginary data, then the magnitude, and the bottom one is the trigger. Connect the real, imaginary, and magnitude to the three inputs of your scope (if you only have a two-channel scope, you can connect the real and imaginary only, without missing much). The trigger can be connected to the last scope channel or to the external trigger of your scope.

Now, set the Freq/Time switch to Freq. On your scope, set the vertical to 2v/div, for each of the inputs. Also set the sweep to 20ms/div.

Now you can power the system via the USB connection on the Arduino Nano. Spread out the traces on the scope and set the scope to trigger using the trigger input. You can now hide the trigger trace. The traces should look like what we see in Figure 3.

Figure 3 The starting spectrum from -2500 to +2500 Hz where there is signal energy at both -1500 and +1500 Hz.

Now adjust the horizontal position so the traces are centered. Ignore the time axis on the bottom and the voltage axis on the right side—they are irrelevant (turn them off if your scope has such a feature). The left-to-right axis is frequency with -2500 Hz on the left side and +2500 Hz on the right side. DC or 0 Hz is the center line. (On scopes with 10 major horizontal markings, each major marking measures off 500 Hz increments.) Vertical is only a relative, auto-scaled, value so it is best to keep the volts/div the same for the real, imaginary, and magnitude traces. So, in Figure 3 you can see we have signal energy at both +1500 Hz and -1500 Hz. (Note, on boot up the real signal is 100 while the imaginary amplitude is 0.)

You will see a menu on the I/Q Explorer LCD. Rotating the left rotary encoder will allow you to move up and down in the menu. The right rotary encoder allows you to change the values of the menu item next to the flashing cursor (second line from the top of the LCD). In the menu you can change the frequency, amplitude and the phase of the real (I data) or imaginary (Q data) signals.) Note that changing the frequency of either the real or imaginary will change the other—they need to be at the same frequency.) The menu also has items to print data, plot data, turn on/off windowing, turn on/off a mixer, and change the source for the FFT from the internal generated data to external signal from a signal generator.

As a sanity check, Figure 4 is a plot of the real output from a simulation package using the same signals, sample rate, and number of samples. These are as follows: The real signal used has an amplitude of 100 and the imaginary signal has an amplitude of 0. The frequency of both is 1500 Hz. The sample rate is 5000 samples/second and the number of samples used in the FFT is 64.

Figure 4 Real FFT simulation using the same settings where the real signal has an amplitude of 100, the imaginary signal has an amplitude of 0, the frequency of both is 1500 Hz, the sample rate is 5000 samples/second, and the number of samples used in the FFT is 64.

You can see that the real signal matches nicely.

Adjusting real and imaginary signal settings

Let’s change the imaginary signal so it has the same amplitude as the real signal. Set the imaginary amplitude to 100. Now we get the following in Figure 5.

Figure 5 The FFT when imaginary and real amplitudes are the same (set to 100).

You can see we only have a signal at +1500 Hz…there is no negative frequency component.

If we flip the Freq/Time to “Time” you will be able to see the time domain samples used to generate the FFT, without adjusting anything on the scope.

Mixer mode

Now let’s try quadrature (complex-to-complex) mixing. Move down in the menu and turn on “Mixer” (more on moving and adjusting settings in the download). This will do the mix using the real and imaginary signals you have sets, and a fixed signal having its real and imaginary setting of 1000 Hz, and amplitudes of 100 and phases set to 0. What you will at first is shown in Figure 6.

Figure 6 Quadrature mixing of 1500 Hz with 1000 Hz showing the signal at 500 Hz and an image created at 2000 Hz.

You can see two things. First, the signal is now at 500 Hz, the difference of 1500 Hz from our signal and the 1000Hz from the mix signal. Second, there is an image created at 2000 Hz (1500 Hz + 500 Hz) but it has been removed by the mathematics of the mixer.

Next change the frequency of the real or imaginary signal (remember one will change the other) to 500 Hz. Also note, as you turn the dial, the FFT frequency will slide down as you approach 500 Hz. And as you go past 1000 Hz you will see the FFT in the negative frequency area. When you get to 500 Hz you will see this in Figure 7.

Figure 7 Quadrature (complex-to-complex) mixing of 500 Hz with 1000 Hz.

You now have generated a negative frequency—as simple as that.

Note that you can also see the plot, of any of the displayed FFTs, on the PC by using the “Serial Plot” selection. You can also get a view of the numerical data by using the “Serial Print Data” selection.

More fun IQ manipulation

So now that you’ve seen a few examples, you can explore I/Q data and quadrature mixing by changing things like the amplitude of the real and/or imaginary signals. Also, try changing the phase of signals. After you get a grasp of that try changing the phase of either. To get a real handle on this, see if you can manipulate the trig equations to better understand how you get to that FFT. The system also has a windowing function, you can play with, that adjusts amplitudes of the data points before the FFT is calculated (for those who know these things, it is a Hann window). 

Remember, you can also use actual external signals, such as those from a two-channel signal generator, to perform the same tests. You’ll note though, the FFTs are not quite as stable. There is more information on that in the downloadable notes.

One last thought; you’ll find lots of discussion on whether negative frequencies are real (in the traditional sense) or not. My two cents is they are not physically real as they cannot be transmitted as a single waveform, but they are a very nice mathematical construct that allows us to manipulate the signals that we can receive. Let the arguing begin.

To download 3D printable files and document containing more operating info, a BOM, and extra photo, visit: https://makerworld.com/en/models/1013533#profileId-993290

The Arduino Nano code can be found at: Arduino Nano code can be found at: https://github.com/DamianB2/IQ_Explorer

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.

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Innoscience files lawsuits against Infineon in China

Semiconductor today - Пн, 01/20/2025 - 14:33
InnoScience (Suzhou) Technology Holding Co Ltd and its subsidiary InnoScience (Suzhou) Semiconductor Co Ltd have filed complaints regarding patent number 202311774650.7s and 202211387983.X with the Intermediate People’s Court of Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, against Infineon Technologies (China) Co Ltd, its subsidiary Infineon Technologies (Wuxi) Co Ltd, and Suzhou Chipswork Electronics Technologies Co Ltd...

Nvidia, TSMC, and advanced packaging realignment in 2025

EDN Network - Пн, 01/20/2025 - 10:27

Nvidia’s CEO Jensen Huang has made waves by saying that his company’s most advanced artificial intelligence (AI) chip, Blackwell, will transition from CowoS-S to CoWoS-L advanced packaging technology. That also shows how TSMC’s advanced packaging technology—chip on wafer on substrate (CoWoS)—is evolving to overcome interconnect battles inside large, powerful chips for AI and other high-performance computing (HPC) applications.

The CoWoS-S advanced packaging technology uses a single silicon interposer and through-silicon vias (TSVs) to facilitate the direct transmission of high-speed electrical signals between the die and the substrate. However, single silicon interposers often confront yield issues.

On the other hand, CoWoS-L, TSMC’s latest packaging technology, uses a local silicon interconnect (LSI) along with an RDL interposer to form a reconstituted interposer (RI) to enhance chip design and packaging flexibility. It also preserves the attractive feature of CoWoS-S in the form of TSVs while mitigating the yield issues arising from the use of large silicon interposers in CoWoS-S.

According to Reuters, Nvidia is selling its Blackwell chips as quickly as TSMC can manufacture them, but packaging has become a bottleneck due to capacity constraints. That’s startling because, as Huang noted, the amount of advanced packaging capacity at TSMC is probably four times the amount available less than two years ago.

Figure 1 CoWoS-L marks a significant advancement over CoWoS-S in terms of performance and efficiency for AI and HPC applications. Source: TSMC

Huang also told Taiwanese reporters that Nvidia is still producing Blackwell’s predecessor, Hopper, using TSMC’s CoWoS-S advanced packaging technology. “It’s not about reducing capacity. It’s actually increasing capacity into CoWoS-L.”

Advanced packaging in flux

Nvidia’s foray into new technology is a stark reminder of how quickly advanced packaging needs are changing. Apparently, the semiconductor industry is eying a new set of advanced packaging building blocks to dramatically increase the bandwidth and interconnect density of AI chips.

TSMC’s CoWoS is a 2.5D semiconductor packaging technology that increases the number of I/O points while reducing interconnect length between logic and memory components. However, emerging HPC workloads, particularly those related to AI training, demand even higher memory bandwidth due to frequent memory accesses.

CoWoS-L can stack up to 12 HBM3 devices at a lower cost than CoWoS-S and thus has the potential to become the mainstream CoWoS technology for future AI chips. Beyond CoWoS-L, TSMC is warming up to co-packaged optics (CPO), which replaces traditional electrical signal transmission with optical communications.

Figure 2 TSMC has made significant progress in its silicon photonics strategy by integrating CPO with advanced semiconductor packaging. Source: TrendForce

The current AI chips use copper interconnects, which increasingly face bottlenecks as bandwidths widen. In CPO, optical interconnect signals can achieve higher bandwidth than their electrical counterparts. For instance, CPO supports up to 1.6 Tbps bandwidth, which is 1.8 times wider than Gen 4 NVLink interconnect used by Nvidia in its current GPUs. Moreover, power consumption is also up to 50% lower.

According to Taiwanese media outlet UDN, TSMC has completed the development of CPO, and it plans to provide CPO samples to two of its major customers, Broadcom and Nvidia, later this year. Furthermore, UDN reports that TSMC plans to scale up the production of CPO in 2026.

AI chips constituting high logic-to-logic and logic-to-memory bandwidth are driving innovations in the advanced packaging realm. The move from CoWoS-S to CoWoS-L and the advent of CPO are harbinger of this pivot in the semiconductor industry ecosystem, which is now increasingly driven by AI applications.

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This is by far one of the most difficult and ugliest thing I ever built

Reddit:Electronics - Ндл, 01/19/2025 - 05:25
This is by far one of the most difficult and ugliest thing I ever built

This is a Nixie tube clock I built without using any PCB boards. Basically, it was built via point to point wiring. This thing is far from perfect: it’s all crooked, numbers don’t line up, etc. but I think that’s the allure of building something like this. This will never be perfect. Something like this cannot be built by automation. No 2 clocks will never be identical; if I decided to build another clock like this, I will never build it exactly like this one.

This thing is still not perfect; it is failing the self test routine and need to still debug the driver circuits of one of the nixies. It’s almost there though!

I’m planning to give my grandfather the ugly nixie clock. It’s something very personal I built with my own hands. He’s in Hawaii, so I’m an ocean away from him. I wish I could visit him every day, but that would be a long daily commute (from California to O’ahu). He doesn’t have much time left on this planet, however, he was the very one that molded me into what I am today. He’s going to get a nixie clock, only one of it’s type in the entire world lol

This build was pretty stressful and frustrating, but I absolutely loved every minute of it.

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Ok i know this is trivial, but wow!

Reddit:Electronics - Сбт, 01/18/2025 - 23:01
Ok i know this is trivial, but wow!

I wanna start by saying: I literally just started this hobby today.

I know this is an egregiously simple thing and nothing impressive, but holy crap this brought me unbelievable levels of dopamine!

I have to say this is one of the coolest things I've done in a long time.

Being able to solve some equations and then build this little circuit, and watch the EXACT calculations i came up with pop up on the multimeter is amazing

I've done lots of math in my day, but MAN, being able to calculate something on paper then see those results in the real world is simply amazing

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Weekly discussion, complaint, and rant thread

Reddit:Electronics - Сбт, 01/18/2025 - 18:00

Open to anything, including discussions, complaints, and rants.

Sub rules do not apply, so don't bother reporting incivility, off-topic, or spam.

Reddit-wide rules do apply.

To see the newest posts, sort the comments by "new" (instead of "best" or "top").

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Swathi Weapon Locating Radar: A Beacon of Indian Defense Technology

ELE Times - Сбт, 01/18/2025 - 13:24

India has steadily emerged as a formidable force in defense technology, with indigenous innovations taking center stage. Among its crowning achievements is the Swathi Weapon Locating Radar (WLR), a state-of-the-art radar system designed to detect and track enemy artillery, mortars, and rockets. Developed by Indian defense engineers, the Swathi radar underscores India’s self-reliance in defense capabilities, offering world-class performance at a competitive cost.

What is Swathi Weapon Locating Radar?

Swathi Weapon Locating Radar (WLR) is an advanced radar system designed to locate the origin of hostile artillery fire and pinpoint the location of enemy weapons. It provides critical real-time data to armed forces, enabling them to neutralize threats effectively. The radar has been a game-changer for India’s military and has garnered international attention for its capabilities.

Developed by Indian Expertise

Swathi WLR was developed indigenously by the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), a division of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). This collaboration brought together cutting-edge radar technology and indigenous manufacturing expertise, resulting in a highly reliable and efficient system tailored to the needs of the Indian Armed Forces.

Swathi Radar: Full Form and Significance

The term “Swathi” does not have a conventional acronymic full form; it is a name that symbolizes vigilance and precision. In the context of military technology, it signifies the radar’s ability to scan, detect, and act with unparalleled accuracy, much like its namesake.

Swathi’s significance lies in its ability to act as a force multiplier. By detecting and neutralizing threats before they can cause damage, the radar enhances the strategic and tactical advantage of armed forces in conflict scenarios. It also reduces the dependency on foreign-made radar systems, contributing to India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Technical Features and Capabilities

The Swathi Weapon Locating Radar boasts several cutting-edge features that make it a world-class system:

  1. Detection Range: Swathi WLR has a range of up to 50 kilometers for locating artillery and up to 30 kilometers for detecting mortars and rockets. This extended range ensures early threat detection and effective countermeasures.
  2. Coverage Area: The radar can simultaneously track multiple targets over a wide area, making it ideal for use in complex battlefield scenarios.
  3. Accuracy: With high precision, the radar can pinpoint the location of enemy weaponry, providing critical data for swift retaliatory action.
  4. Mobility: Mounted on a mobile platform, the radar can be rapidly deployed in different terrains, from deserts to mountainous regions.
  5. Weather Resilience: The radar performs reliably under varied weather conditions, ensuring uninterrupted operation during critical missions.
Swathi Radar Exports: Expanding Global Reach

Swathi WLR is not just a domestic asset; it has also made its mark on the international stage. India’s defense exports have grown significantly, with Swathi being a flagship product. Notably, Armenia has procured the radar system, recognizing its exceptional capabilities and cost-effectiveness. This export marked a significant milestone for India’s defense industry, positioning Swathi as a competitive alternative to systems offered by countries like the United States, Israel, and Russia.

The successful export of Swathi underscores the global recognition of India’s indigenous defense technology. It also reflects India’s growing capability to design and manufacture advanced systems that meet international standards.

Cost-Effectiveness: A Strategic Advantage

One of Swathi’s most compelling aspects is its affordability. Priced significantly lower than similar systems from other countries, Swathi offers an attractive option for nations looking to bolster their defense capabilities without overshooting their budgets. The radar’s competitive pricing, combined with its high performance, has made it an appealing choice for several countries exploring modern defense solutions.

Operational Impact and Applications

Swathi WLR has proven invaluable in enhancing battlefield operations. Here’s how:

  1. Threat Neutralization: By detecting the source of enemy artillery, the radar allows forces to respond quickly and effectively, neutralizing threats before they escalate.
  2. Border Security: Deployed along sensitive borders, Swathi provides constant surveillance and tracking, ensuring robust national security.
  3. Counter-Battery Fire: The radar’s ability to accurately locate enemy firing positions enables counter-battery operations, minimizing damage and ensuring tactical superiority.
  4. International Peacekeeping: Swathi can be deployed in international peacekeeping missions, where its precision and reliability contribute to maintaining stability in conflict zones.

Future Prospects and Upgrades

To maintain its edge, Swathi radar is expected to undergo periodic upgrades, incorporating advancements in radar and sensor technologies. Future iterations may include enhanced range, better integration with command-and-control systems, and AI-driven analytics for real-time decision-making.

Additionally, with an increasing focus on exports, DRDO and BEL are likely to develop customized versions of Swathi to meet the specific needs of different countries.

Conclusion

The Swathi Weapon Locating Radar is a testament to India’s strides in indigenous defense technology. Combining cutting-edge features with cost-effectiveness, it has become a valuable asset for both domestic and international applications. Its successful deployment and export highlight India’s potential to be a global leader in defense innovation. As Swathi continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of India’s defense strategy and a beacon of technological excellence.

The post Swathi Weapon Locating Radar: A Beacon of Indian Defense Technology appeared first on ELE Times.

5G vs LPWA Technologies: A Comparative Overview of 5G, NB-IoT, Sigfox, and LoRa IoT

ELE Times - Сбт, 01/18/2025 - 12:49

The Internet of Things (IoT) continues to revolutionize industries by enabling seamless connectivity among devices, sensors, and systems. The choice of communication technology is critical in determining the efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness of IoT implementations. Among the most prominent technologies are 5G and Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) networks, which include NB-IoT, Sigfox, and LoRa. Each of these technologies has distinct characteristics, making them suitable for specific use cases. This article explores the differences between 5G and LPWA technologies, highlighting their unique features, advantages, and limitations.

Understanding the Basics

5G Technology

5G is the fifth generation of mobile network technology, designed to provide ultra-fast data speeds, minimal latency, and support for massive device connectivity. It is a versatile technology catering to diverse applications, from enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) to ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) and massive machine-type communication (mMTC).

Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) Technologies

LPWA technologies, such as NB-IoT, Sigfox, and LoRa, focus on low power consumption, wide coverage, and cost-efficiency. These technologies are tailored for IoT applications requiring long battery life, low data rates, and devices distributed over vast areas.

Key Features and Capabilities
Feature 5G NB-IoT Sigfox LoRa
Data Speed Up to 10 Gbps Up to 250 kbps 100 bps to 600 bps 0.3 kbps to 50 kbps
Latency 1 ms or less ~1.5 seconds ~10 seconds ~1 to 5 seconds
Coverage Urban and dense environments Deep indoor and rural Global (through operators) Regional (private networks)
Power Efficiency Moderate High Very High Very High
Cost High Low to moderate Low Low

 

Comparing the Technologies
  1. 5G: High-Speed and Versatility

5G excels in high-bandwidth applications requiring real-time responsiveness. It is ideal for:

  • Autonomous Vehicles: Low latency ensures real-time decision-making for self-driving cars.
  • Smart Cities: 5G supports dense sensor deployments, enabling smart traffic systems and public safety applications.
  • Industrial Automation: Ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) facilitates advanced robotics and precision manufacturing.

However, 5G’s advanced capabilities come at a higher cost. Its infrastructure demands significant investment, and its power consumption is relatively high, making it less suitable for battery-powered IoT devices.

2. NB-IoT: Simplified Cellular Connectivity

Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) is a cellular-based LPWA technology developed to address the needs of IoT applications requiring low power consumption and wide coverage. Key applications include:

  • Smart Utilities: NB-IoT is widely used in smart metering for water, gas, and electricity.
  • Agriculture: It supports soil moisture sensors and livestock monitoring systems.
  • Asset Tracking: NB-IoT enables cost-effective tracking of shipping containers and equipment.

NB-IoT operates within the licensed spectrum, ensuring minimal interference and reliable connectivity. Its power efficiency allows devices to run for years on a single battery. However, its data speed and latency are not sufficient for applications requiring real-time responsiveness.

3. Sigfox: Global Connectivity at Low Cost

Sigfox is a proprietary LPWA technology designed for simplicity and affordability. Operating in the unlicensed ISM band, it focuses on:

  • Environmental Monitoring: Sigfox supports sensors for air quality, weather, and water levels.
  • Smart Logistics: It enables tracking of pallets and packages globally.
  • Security Systems: Sigfox connects low-power intrusion sensors and alarms.

Sigfox’s ultra-low data rates and power consumption make it ideal for applications transmitting small amounts of data sporadically. However, its reliance on Sigfox operators limits flexibility and scalability compared to open standards.

4. LoRa: Flexibility and Decentralization

LoRa (Long Range) is an open standard LPWA technology operating in the unlicensed ISM band. It is particularly valued for its:

  • Private Networks: LoRa enables businesses to establish their own IoT networks without relying on third-party operators.
  • Agriculture and Environmental Use: LoRa supports monitoring of farmlands, forests, and wildlife habitats.
  • Smart Buildings: LoRa connects HVAC systems, lighting controls, and security sensors.

LoRa’s flexibility and cost-effectiveness make it a popular choice for localized IoT deployments. However, its reliance on gateways and lack of native global coverage can be limitations for some use cases.

Selecting the Right Technology

The choice between 5G and LPWA technologies depends on the specific requirements of the IoT application.

Consideration Best Technology
High-speed data transfer 5G
Battery life and power efficiency Sigfox, LoRa, NB-IoT
Global connectivity Sigfox
Private network setup LoRa
Real-time responsiveness 5G

 

The Future of IoT Connectivity

As IoT ecosystems continue to expand, hybrid approaches integrating multiple technologies are emerging. For example, 5G can provide high-speed backbone connectivity, while LPWA networks handle localized low-power tasks. Additionally, advancements in edge computing and AI are enhancing the capabilities of all these technologies, enabling more intelligent and efficient IoT solutions.

Conclusion

5G and LPWA technologies each bring unique strengths to the IoT landscape. While 5G is the backbone of high-performance, real-time applications, LPWA technologies like NB-IoT, Sigfox, and LoRa cater to cost-sensitive, low-power use cases. The diversity of these technologies ensures that IoT can address a wide spectrum of needs, driving innovation across industries and transforming how we interact with the world around us.

 

The post 5G vs LPWA Technologies: A Comparative Overview of 5G, NB-IoT, Sigfox, and LoRa IoT appeared first on ELE Times.

Aehr’s quarterly revenue hit by order delays

Semiconductor today - Птн, 01/17/2025 - 18:17
For its fiscal second-quarter 2025 (ended 29 November 2024), semiconductor production test and reliability qualification equipment supplier Aehr Test Systems of Fremont, CA, USA has reported revenue of $13.5m, up slightly from $13.1m last quarter but down on $21.4m a year ago. While Services revenue has rebounded from $0.97m last quarter to $1.47m, Product revenue has fallen further, from $19.8m a year ago and $12.2m last quarter to $12m...

Powering a Sustainable Future: A Look at Emerging Sustainable Power Technologies

ELE Times - Птн, 01/17/2025 - 13:44

The world is at a critical juncture. The ever-increasing demand for energy coupled with the looming threat of climate change necessitates a paradigm shift towards sustainable power generation. Thankfully, innovation is blossoming in the realm of renewable energy, with a plethora of emerging technologies poised to revolutionize the way we power our planet.

This article delves into some of the most promising sustainable power technologies that hold immense potential for shaping a cleaner and more secure energy future. We will explore these technologies based on the following categories:

  • Solar Energy Advancements
  • Wind Power Innovations
  • Alternative Renewable Energy Sources
  • Energy Storage Solutions
Solar Energy Advancements

Solar energy remains at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution. However, advancements are constantly pushing the boundaries of efficiency and affordability. Here are some exciting developments:

  • Perovskite Solar Cells: These next-generation solar cells boast the potential to surpass the efficiency limits of traditional silicon-based cells. Perovskite materials are lightweight, flexible, and can be manufactured at lower costs, making them ideal for large-scale deployment.
  • Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) with Thermal Storage: CSP plants use mirrors to concentrate sunlight onto a receiver, generating heat that can be converted into electricity. Integrating thermal storage allows for continuous power generation even during periods of low sunlight.
  • Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV): BIPV technologies seamlessly integrate solar panels into building materials, transforming rooftops, facades, and windows into power generators. This not only reduces reliance on traditional grids but also enhances building aesthetics.
Wind Power Innovations

Wind power is another established renewable energy source, and advancements are focusing on efficiency and harnessing wind energy from untapped sources:

  • Offshore Wind Farms: With stronger and more consistent winds blowing offshore, these large-scale wind farms offer significant potential for clean energy generation. Technological advancements in turbine design and floating platforms are making offshore wind farms more cost-effective.
  • Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs): Unlike traditional horizontal-axis wind turbines, VAWTs can capture wind from any direction, making them suitable for urban environments or areas with unpredictable wind patterns. Their compact design also reduces visual impact.
  • High-Altitude Wind Power (HAWP): HAWP systems utilize tethered kites or balloons equipped with turbines to harness the stronger and more consistent winds at high altitudes. This technology is still in its early stages but holds promise for large-scale energy generation.
Alternative Renewable Energy Sources

Beyond solar and wind, a diverse range of renewable energy sources are emerging:

  • Geothermal Energy: This technology utilizes the Earth’s internal heat to generate electricity. Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) are expanding the reach of geothermal power by creating artificial geothermal reservoirs in areas with limited natural resources.
  • Ocean Energy: The power of waves, tides, and currents can be harnessed through various technologies like wave energy converters, tidal turbines, and ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC). These technologies are still under development but offer immense potential for coastal regions.
  • Biomass Energy: While concerns exist regarding sustainability, advancements in biofuel production and waste-to-energy conversion can contribute to a cleaner energy mix.
Energy Storage Solutions

The intermittent nature of some renewable energy sources necessitates efficient energy storage solutions. Here are some key technologies:

  • Advanced Battery Storage: Lithium-ion batteries are currently the dominant technology, but advancements in solid-state batteries and flow batteries promise higher capacities, longer lifespans, and faster charging times.
  • Pumped Hydroelectric Storage (PHES): This mature technology stores energy by pumping water uphill during off-peak hours and releasing it through turbines to generate electricity during peak demand periods.
  • Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES): CAES stores energy by compressing air into underground caverns. When electricity is needed, the compressed air is released to drive turbines and generate power.
The Road Ahead: A Collaborative Effort

The successful integration of these emerging sustainable power technologies requires a collaborative effort. Governments, research institutions, and private companies need to work together to address challenges like:

  • Cost Reduction: While advancements are lowering costs, further research and development are crucial to make these technologies cost-competitive with traditional fossil fuels.
  • Grid Modernization: Integrating a diverse range of renewable energy sources necessitates a smarter and more flexible grid infrastructure.
  • Policy and Regulations: Supportive policies and regulations can incentivize the adoption of renewable energy technologies and create a stable investment environment

The post Powering a Sustainable Future: A Look at Emerging Sustainable Power Technologies appeared first on ELE Times.

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