ELE Times

• Solution identifies subtle defects such as wire sag, near shorts, and stray wires for comprehensive assessment of wire bond integrity
• Advanced capacitive-based test methodology enables superior defect detection
• Test platform is high volume manufacturing ready, capable of testing 20 integrated circuits simultaneously for throughput of up to 72,000 units per hour

INDIA – Keysight Technologies, Inc. introduces the Electrical Structural Tester (EST), a wire bond inspection solution for semiconductor manufacturing that ensures the integrity and reliability of electronic components.

The semiconductor industry is faced with testing challenges due to the increasing density of chips in mission-critical applications such as medical devices and automotive systems. Current testing methodologies often fall short in detecting wire bond structural defects, which lead to costly latent failures. In addition, traditional testing approaches frequently rely on sampling techniques that do not adequately identify wire bond structural defects.

The EST addresses these testing challenges by using cutting-edge nano Vectorless Test Enhanced Performance (nVTEP) technology to create a capacitive structure between the wire bond and a sensor plate. Using this method the EST can identify subtle defects such as wire sag, near shorts, and stray wires to enable comprehensive assessment of wire bond integrity.

Key benefits of the EST include:

• Advanced defect detection – Identifies a wide range of wire bond defects, both electrical and non-electrical, by analyzing changes in capacitive coupling patterns to ensure the functionality and reliability of electronic components.
• High volume manufacturing ready – Enables throughput of up to 72,000 units per hour through the ability to test up to 20 integrated circuits simultaneously, which boosts productivity and efficiency in high-volume production environments.
• Big data analytics integration: Captures defects and enhances yield through advanced methods like marginal retry test (MaRT), dynamic part averaging test (DPAT), and real-time part averaging test (RPAT).

Carol Leh, Vice President, Electronic Industrial Solutions Group Center of Excellence, Keysight, said: “Keysight is dedicated to pioneering innovative solutions that address the most pressing challenges in the wire bonding process. The Electrical Structural Tester empowers chip manufacturers to enhance production efficiency by rapidly identifying wire bond defects, ensuring superior quality and reliability in high-volume manufacturing.”

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Author: STMicroelectronics

With the global spotlight on sports these days, it is almost impossible to overlook the technological innovations like the MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) sensors. Embedded in wearable technology like smartwatches and fitness trackers, MEMS sensors facilitate athletic performance monitoring and enhancement. From everyday training to major sports events, these tiny yet powerful sensors help monitor progress and receive real-time feedback.

Precision in athletics and cycling

In the world of athletics, every millisecond and centimeter matters. Consider an athlete preparing for a high jump and representing their country at an international level. They are constantly seeking ways to perfect their jumping techniques. With each leap, MEMS sensors embedded in their sportswear ensure precise data capturing on jump height and distance and the real-time feedback will help athletes make immediate adjustments – optimizing form and technique.

Cyclists rely heavily on maintaining optimal cadence and power output to ensure peak performance. Thanks to MEMS sensors, they can optimize their pedaling efficiency and power distribution. The data collected by these sensors facilitates real-time adjustments, leading to not only improved performance but also providing a competitive edge.

How MEMS sensor technology works

ST is at the forefront of MEMS sensor Technology, integrating micro-electro-mechanical systems with electronic circuits and enabling the measurement of various physical parameters such as acceleration, angular velocity, orientation, pressure and more. For example, an accelerometer calculates the velocity, measures the rate of change of velocity in an object, and detects specific gestures and tracks body movements, providing athletes with precise and reliable data.

Optimizing training in swimming and racket sports

Efficient turns can make all the difference in competitive swimming. Precise depth measurements are crucial for underwater challenges and MEMS sensors have made a substantial impact in this area. For example, the ST waterproof pressure sensor can provide real-time data on turns and depth, helping swimmers optimize their performance and efficiency in the water.

Indeed, with MEMS sensors embedded in their sportswear or goggles, the swimmer can monitor their performance during training sessions. Moreover, using this data, coaches can adjust the training regimen, empowering their swimmers to perform their best, resulting in improved performance and a competitive edge in the pool or open water.

In racket sports like tennis, padel and baseball, the speed and accuracy of strokes are key. MEMS sensors embedded in rackets or bats provide detailed data on gestures and impact, helping athletes make immediate adjustments and improve their strokes. If you want to learn more about the latest advancements in performance monitoring, read the article on MEMS sensors that vastly Improve the performance-per-watt ratio.

Real-time feedback in football and adaptive training

For contact sports like football, impact monitoring is crucial for both player safety and performance, as well as tracking the ball’s speed and spin rate while in the air. High-g accelerometer MEMS sensors embedded in helmets, capture detailed impact data while meticulous smart ball tracking enhances the viewing experience for football fans.

In addition, they provide valuable insights into the force and direction of collisions that in turn help coaches and medical staff monitor the safety of the players. It also enables informed decision-making around training and gameplay. For instance, if a player experiences significant impact, the data can prompt immediate medical evaluation, thus ensuring the player’s well-being.

The versatility of MEMS sensors extends to a wide range of sports. Whether it is cyclists adjusting their cadence, swimmers refining their turns or tennis players perfecting their swing, MEMS sensors, including motion sensors such as Inertial Measurement Units (IMU) provide the real-time data needed to make immediate improvements and, over time, achieve better results and a competitive edge.

MEMS sensors embedded in wearable technology are undeniably transforming the landscape of competitive sports. They provide precise performance monitoring and optimize training routines with real-time feedback. As technology continues to advance, the role of MEMS sensors in enhancing athletic performance will only become more significant, paving the way for future generations of athletes.

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When we think of space exploration, the focus often gravitates toward massive rockets, sophisticated spacecrafts, and the captivating images they send back to Earth. However, the unsung heroes in these endeavors are the critical components ensuring that every part of these complex systems communicates effectively. One of the most critical components enabling this communication is connectors.

From the Artemis program’s monumental lunar missions to the revolutionary insights of the James Webb Space Telescope, the success of these missions hinges not just on the large-scale engineering feats but also on the reliability and performance of connectors. These ubiquitous components face the extreme conditions of space and are pivotal in every step, from the rigors of launch to the harsh environment of outer space.

Space Exploration Ascending

Space exploration, both by government organizations and commercial ventures, is very much in the news. One of the most extensive programs in recent space history is the Artemis program, which will see humans return to the Moon. The Space Launch System (SLS) completed its first successful test mission in December of 2022 and forms the largest component of the program. However, the latest steps in our return to the Moon are not the only exciting initiatives in space.

While these high-profile events capture the public’s imagination, they represent just a small part of the picture. Exploration and exploitation of space are everyday activities. More than 200 space launches were made in 2023 alone, carrying science missions and satellites into orbit and beyond.

The Extreme Conditions of Space

Even though spaceflight has become more common, the conditions in which these systems must perform are unlike any other. Space represents possibly the single most demanding environment known to engineering. Any equipment used in spaceflight is exposed to a range of extremes, from high and low temperatures and harsh radiation to the severities of the launch process and the vacuum of space.

The lack of atmosphere in space is incredibly unforgiving. On Earth, our atmosphere is a protective blanket that provides pressure, thermal insulation, and safety from harmful radiation. This protection is stripped away in space, exposing equipment to potential damage.

Without the atmosphere to protect it, an object in space receives the full force of the sun’s radiation. When equipment is bombarded by direct sunlight, its temperature can quickly become dangerously high. In contrast, the parts of a spacecraft that remain in shadow are very cold. These temperature extremes, must be considered when selecting the materials to use aboard space vehicles. Other radiation sources, including galactic cosmic rays, are highly ionizing and can harm delicate instruments or sophisticated electronic circuits.

Choosing the Right Materials for Spaceflight

The lack of atmospheric pressure also causes materials to behave in unique ways. Components employed for spaceflight can face an array of challenges that affect performance. Outgassing is when a gas trapped inside another material is released. This is a common problem when plastic is exposed to a vacuum during spaceflight, but it is not limited to plastics alone. Some metals, including zinc and cadmium, are also prone to sublimation in vacuum conditions, both of which are commonly used in conventional equipment design.

In both cases, the gas that is released can cause damage. It may condense onto cold surfaces such as the optics and sensors of scientific equipment, which can degrade or even negate their effectiveness and put the entire mission at risk. NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) have recommended volume levels of outgassing for materials used in their space applications. These recommendations play a key role in selecting components for spaceflight.

Components also need to be mechanically robust, as launching satellites, probes, and spacecrafts into orbit exposes them to acceleration and vibration that can cause damage that might be undiscovered for months or years. As such, plastic components need to be manufactured using materials that exhibit high stability, even in vacuum conditions.

To provide solutions for these demanding conditions, connectors designed for spaceflight must be amongst the most advanced in the industry. Manufactured to stringent standards and tested to prove their performance even in the vacuum of space, they are the very definition of high-reliability connectors.

Engineered for Maximum Endurance

If the spaceflight environment is not challenging enough, there is one additional aspect that contributes to the difficulties of designing for spaceflight: endurance. Whether intended for commercial or scientific purposes, space missions can last for years. If a piece of equipment fails, gaining access to fix the problem is essentially impossible. In these circumstances, designers and engineers depend on the reliability of each component that makes up the equipment, no matter how small.

Endurance also plays a crucial role in power planning. A long-range probe operates on a stringent power budget, and any component that introduces unwanted electrical resistance will risk jeopardizing the mission. The electrical terminals of connectors designed for space applications are made from high-performance materials and coated with a thick layer of gold, ensuring minimal electrical resistance to reduce power loss.

Contacts with low electrical resistance provide additional benefits beyond power planning. The instruments on space probes take highly precise measurements, and the currents generated by these sensors can be extremely small. For these tiny currents, low contact resistance is crucial to maximize the likelihood of detecting critical signals.

With endurance in mind, connectors designed for spaceflight applications use materials that provide the best possible performance by reducing interference. Manufacturers must ensure that the magnetic signature of any component is minimized to prevent interference with precision scientific experiments. The connector shell also protects against electromagnetic interference (EMI). Vehicles that must traverse the vacuum of space are unprotected against solar radiation, which can interfere with scientific observations and damage sensitive instruments. This is another reason why the shells of spaceflight connectors are gold-plated, which provides the highest possible protection against EMI in these circumstances.

Mission-Critical Connector Engineering

Connectors play an often-overlooked role in spaceflight applications. Space vehicles are typically manufactured from sub-assemblies, which are brought together before launch. Connectors provide the vital interface between each system during the extensive testing regime before launch and the demanding conditions in space. Spaceflight connectors are designed according to some of the highest standards in the interconnection industry and, as a result, represent some of the most capable products available today.

David Pike

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Integration in traction inverters extends the cruising range and improves performance

ROHM has announced the adoption of power modules equipped with 4th generation SiC MOSFET bare chips for the traction inverters in three models of ZEEKR EV brand from Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely), a top 10 global automaker. Since 2023, these power modules have been mass-produced and shipped from HAIMOSIC (SHANGHAI) Co., Ltd. – a joint venture between ROHM and Zhenghai Group Co., Ltd. to Viridi E-Mobility Technology (Ningbo) Co., Ltd, a Tier 1 manufacturer under Geely.

Geely and ROHM have been collaborating since 2018, beginning with technical exchanges, then later forming a strategic partnership focused on SiC power devices in 2021. This led to the integration of ROHM’s SiC MOSFETs into the traction inverters of three models: the ZEEKR X, 009, and 001. In each of these EVs, ROHM’s power solutions centered on SiC MOSFETs play a key role in extending the cruising range and enhancing overall performance.

ROHM is committed to advancing SiC technology, with plans to launch 5th generation SiC MOSFETs in 2025 while accelerating market introduction of 6th and 7th generation devices. What’s more, by offering SiC in various forms, including bare chips, discrete components, and modules, ROHM is able to promote the widespread adoption of SiC technology, contributing to the creation of a sustainable society.

ZEEKR Models Equipped with ROHM’s EcoSiC

The ZEEKR X, which features a maximum output exceeding 300kW and cruising range of more than 400km despite being a compact SUV, is attracting attention even outside of China due to its exceptional cost performance. The 009 minivan features an intelligent cockpit and large 140kWh battery, achieving an outstanding maximum cruising range of 822km. And for those looking for superior performance, the flagship model, 001, offers a maximum output of over 400kW from dual motors with a range of over 580km along with a four-wheel independent control system.

Market Background and ROHM’s EcoSiC

In recent years, there has been a push to develop more compact, efficient, lightweight electric systems to expand the adoption of next-generation electric vehicles (xEVs) and achieve environmental goals such as carbon neutrality. For electric vehicles in particular, improving the efficiency of the traction inverter, a key element of the drive system, is crucial for extending the cruising range and reducing the size of the onboard battery, heightening expectations for SiC power devices.

As the world’s first supplier to begin mass production of SiC MOSFETs in 2010, ROHM continues to lead the industry in SiC device technology development. These devices are now marketed under the EcoSiC brand, encompassing a comprehensive lineup that includes bare chips, discrete components, and modules.

EcoSiC Brand

EcoSiC is a brand of devices that utilize silicon carbide (SiC), which is attracting attention in the power device field for performance that surpasses silicon (Si). ROHM independently develops technologies essential for the evolution of SiC, from wafer fabrication and production processes to packaging, and quality control methods. At the same time, we have established an integrated production system throughout the manufacturing process, solidifying our position as a leading SiC supplier.

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The top 10 lithium-ion battery manufacturing companies in India in 2024 are as follows:

1. Servotech Power Systems

Servotech Power Systems was incorporated in 2004. It is based out of New Delhi. It has its manufacturing and R&D plant in Sonipat, Haryana.

It manufacturers its batteries by the application of the latest engineering concepts and high-quality raw materials.

Its manufactured batteries are among the best reliable energy storage solution available in India. They are known for their high efficiency and durability.

They find their application in numerous appliances. For instance, 2/3/4 wheelers, power back-up systems, solar power plants, offices, factories, etc.

It has also established a subsidiary company, Servotech Power Infrastructure, to operate as a charging point for the electric vehicles. This subsidiary company is reliant on the lithium-ion batteries manufactured by Servotech Power Systems.

2. Amara Raja Energy & Mobility

Amara Raja Energy & Mobility is a flagship company of the famous Amara Raja Group. It was established by

It is one of the first companies in India to invest in Li-ion technology. It produces Li-ion cells, battery packs and charging solutions for batteries. They are widely used in various electric vehicles and the telecom industry.

It has established a state-of-the-art Gigafactory in Telangana. It has a cell production capacity of 16 GWh. It has a battery pack capacity of 5 GWh. It was established at a cost of Rs 9,500 crore.

It exports its quality batteries to 50 countries across the globe.

3. Exide Energy Solutions Limited

It is a subsidiary company of the Exide Industries Limited. It was earlier called Exide Energy Private Limited. EEPL merged into Exide Energy Solutions Limited in March, 2024.

Exide Energy Private Limited was incorporated on 29 September, 2018. It was a joint venture between Exide Industries Limited (EIL) and Leclanche SA (LSA), Switzerland. In November, 2022, the latter exited from the joint venture. Thereafter, Exide Industries Limited became the sole owner of the venture.

Exide Energy Private Limited had its production plant in Prantij, which is situated in the Sabarkantha district of Gujarat. This plant is still functional.

This plant produces lithium ion batteries using the battery management system. They are used for both electric mobility and stationary power application. They are produced under the brand name Nexcharge.

Upon merger into Exide Energy Solutions Limited, the EESL is establishing a 12 Gwh gigafactory in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Once this plant will become operational, it will further scale up the production of lithium ion batteries.

The Li-ion batteries produced by this organisation uses lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) as a raw material. It is the best choice among all available raw materials. It is because of three reason. First, high power density. Second, very high safety. And, third, very long life span of the battery.

4. ATLBattery Technology (India) Private Limited

It is the Indian subsidiary company of the world-famous Japanese company, Amperex Technology Limited, the world’s leading producer of lithium ion batteries. It was established in 2020. In India, it is based out of Rewari, Haryana.

It has established a 180-acre lithium-ion manufacturing plot at MT Sohna, near Gurugram. It is the largest lithium-ion manufacturing plant in India.

It produces lithium ion batteries for electric vehicles and mobile phones.

5. Tata Chemicals Limited

It is a subsidiary company of the prestigious Tata Group.

It had signed an MoU with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Under this MoU, the lithium-ion cell technology developed by ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) was transferred to Tata Chemical.

ISRO had developed this technology for the production of lithium-ion cells for space-based applications, such as rockets, satellites, etc.

However, once it was transferred to the Tata Chemicals Limited, it is being used by the TCL to produce a wide variety of lithium-ion cells of different capacity, energy, size, and power density.

It produces lithium-ion batteries using lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) as a raw material.

It has entered into partnership with famous Indian R&D centres such as ISRO, CSIR-CECRI, and CMET, for indigenously developed lithium ion cells.

It also runs a li-ion battery recycling operations. Its recovery plant is able to recover valuable metals at 99% plus purity level within industry levels of yield. For instance, lithium, nickel, manganese, cobalt, etc.

Its main focus is on electric vehicle market in India.

6. Okaya EV Private Limited

It is a subsidiary company of the Okaya Power group. It specialises in producing lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, charging, and battery swapping solutions.

It produced India’s first lithium-ion battery. It gave it the name Okaya Royale. It is produced in two variants. First, Okaya Royale. And, second, Okaya Royale XL.

Its production process is certified with ISO 14001:2004 certification.

It is the third-largest battery manufacturer in India. Besides, it is the leading charging station manufacturer in India.

The lithium-ion batteries produced by Okaya EV Private Limited have the following special features:

First, less weight and compact size.

Second, it recharges at a very fast rate.

Third, it has longer life-span.

Fourth, it provides longer back up.

Fifth, it is almost maintenance-free. Hence, it is highly durable.

It specialises in the production of batteries for the electric vehicles.

7. Waaree Technologies Limited

It is one of the constituent Indian company of the world famous Waaree Group. Its parent company produces components in the energy storage, solar, and instrumentation domain.

It produces lithium ion cells and batteries for e-rickshaw, e-bicycles, e-bikes, e-forklift, battery energy storage system, telecom, and uninterruptible power supply (UPS).

It endeavours to create India’s top notch “cell to system” technology. It primarily caters to high quality energy storage solutions for electric utilities, energy storage system, and renewable energy applications.

It produces four series of batteries- Liger, Lion, Lynx, and Lit series.

8. Loom Solar Private Limited

It is a six-years old start-up. It was established in 2018. It is based out of Faridabad, Haryana. It is certified as per the ISO 9001-2015 certification.

It has its manufacturing plant in Faridabad, Haryana.

It manufacturers lithium-ion batteries, inverters, and solar panels.

9. Panasonic Life Solutions India Private Limited

It was established on 14 July, 2006, as Panasonic India Private Limited. With effect from 1 August, 2022, it changed its nomenclature to Panasonic Life Solutions India Private Limited. It was done to bring all businesses of the Panasonic Group in India under one roof.

It is the Indian subsidiary company of the Panasonic Group. Its parent firm is based out of Kadoma, Osaka, Japan.

Its Indian subsidiary’s head-office is in Gurugram, Haryana.

It manufactures lithium-ion batteries and energy storage system using lithium ion batteries.

It manufactures different lithium ion batteries in both coin and cylindrical forms and that too in a wide range of sizes. Hence, they are used in small appliances like digital devices, laptops, to large appliances like electric vehicles.

10. Battrixx

It is a division of Kabra Extrusiontechnik Ltd. The latter is one of the two constituent companies of the Kolsite Group.

It manufactures lithium ion batteries for application in a wide range of appliances in the e-mobility sector. Its application ranges from electric bike, two or three-wheeler electric vehicles, electric car, electric passenger vehicles, light commercial electric vehicles, and electric tractors.

Besides, it also manufactures lithium ion batteries for application in electric forklift, electric golf cart, and devices used in the marine environment.

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