Unlike better-known electromagnetic motors, the widely used piezoelectric-based motor/actuator provides precise, repeatable linear motion over short distances, and requires a voltage drive rather than a current drive. Part 1 of this FAQ looked at the moving piezoelectric element of the actuator. Part 2 looks at their drive requirements, which are very different than those of […]
FAQ: Piezoelectric motors, Part 1: actuators
Unlike better-known electromagnetic motors, the widely used piezoelectric-based motor/actuator provides precise, repeatable linear motion over short distances, and requires a voltage drive rather than a current drive. When we think “motor”, we usually think of rotating motion or perhaps a special “linear motor” which is a rotary motor which has been rolled out flat. To […]
Optocouplers, Part 2: Parameters and applications
Part 1 of this FAQ explored the basics of the optocoupler. This part looks at key parameters and some application examples. Q: What are the primary factors used when assessing an optocoupler? A: While there are many important factors, there are several which are noteworthy: isolation, current-transfer ratio (CTR), linearity (for analog use), and speed. […]
Optocouplers, Part 1: Principles and usefulness
The optocoupler — also called an optoisolator — is among the most useful, versatile, problem-solving components available to the design engineer. This small non-monolithic device does one thing and does it well, with minimal complications in most cases and no software. This FAQ will look at its operation principles, key parameters, and applications of this […]
Connected vehicles will make their connections through gallium nitride
The high performance of many autonomous automotive features will likely depend on the use of super-fast GaN semiconductors. Alex Lidow, Efficient Power Conversion (EPC) WITH the rise of autonomous cars and electric propulsion as driving forces in automotive applications, a huge new market for power devices based on gallium nitride grown on a silicon substrate […]
How telematics is evolving with the connected car
The embedded systems that control vehicle tracking grow more sophisticated by the day. Hope Bovenzi, Texas Instruments Inc. The phrase “car of the future” often invokes thoughts about autonomous driving. But it is fair to also consider what it will be like as a passenger once our driving habits change. With free hands and relaxed […]
How to design a functionally safe vehicle display
It pays to know about the ASIL B compliance measures needed for automotive subsystems. Szukang Hsien, Automotive Business Unit, Maxim Integrated TAKE the wheel of a new car today and you’ll be greeted with the bright glow of screens filled with useful data: how fast you’re going, what’s playing on the radio, a playlist of […]
Galvanic isolation for electric vehicle systems
High voltages and high currents circulating in EVs make the fundamentals of electrical isolation techniques an important topic. Ross Sabolcik, Silicon Labs AS automotive designs move toward electrification, high-wattage power electronics become critical to new electronic drivetrain and battery systems. In these applications, digital controllers safely interface with the high-voltage systems of modern electric vehicles […]
Vehicle electrical systems: Zero-to-sixty in 48 volts
Versatile automotive 48-V electrical systems will reduce CO2 emissions and make practical super-efficient electrical subsystems. Joseph Pulomena, EPCOS, a TDK Group Co. NEARLY five years ago, the U.S. government issued rules requiring automakers to hit a fleet average of 54.5 mpg for new cars and trucks – nearly doubling average fuel economy. Electric vehicles and […]
What are diodes? A quick refresher
A diode is a passive component made with semiconductor materials (a chip) that conducts current flowing in one direction but does not conduct current flowing in the opposite direction. The symbol for a diode (to the right in Figure 1) looks something like an arrow pointing in the direction of the forward current. Current flows […]
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