Modern hardware applications trend towards compact designs that are power efficient. Passive devices don’t get as much attention as a microcontroller’s many sleep and shutdown states. However, every drop of available efficiency adds up and can make a difference. It’s possible to improve power efficiency with the right inductor. Power inductors are a necessary component […]
Selecting a replacement external power supply – what you need to know
Fundamentally, you need to know four basic things when selecting a new power supply for a broken electronics device. The voltage coming from the socket at the wall (Europe/Japan/US), the voltage output, the current, and the type of connector (USB Type-B mini, barrel, USB-C). What most of us don’t know is that there are some […]
Reliability considerations for Peltier modules
Peltier modules, also known as thermoelectric coolers (TEC) or thermoelectric modules (TEM), are solid state devices which transfer heat when electrical power is applied. As with many components, the reliability of Peltier modules is of great importance in applications, so it is beneficial to have some basic knowledge regarding their construction and proper implementation. It […]
Overcoming the challenges of USB PD 3.0’s Fast Role Swap
by Zhigang Liang, Renesas Electronics America The USB-C interface is revolutionizing the way we connect our electronics devices. Thanks to high-speed data transfer and high power delivery, USB-C port adoption is accelerating, and the USB Power Delivery (PD) 3.0 and USB-C specifications are maturing. While consumer electronics OEMs move fast implementing USB Type-C as their […]
Bringing science to the selection of mica capacitors
An RF modeler makes it easy to predict in-circuit S-parameters for mica capacitors used at microwave frequencies. Sam G. Parler, Jr., P.E. | Cornell Dubilier The choice of capacitor can particularly impact the performance of circuits handling RF and microwave frequencies. Specifying passive components operating in this region can seem more like art than science. […]
Optimizing discrete SiC devices
SiC FETs now include measures aimed at keeping losses down while managing fast switching waveforms. Dr. Anup Bhalla | UnitedSiC Silicon carbide (SiC) FETs have low on-resistances, fast switching speeds, and intrinsic diodes with low reverse recovery charge (QRR) and low forward-drop (VF) qualities. These qualities make SiC FETs suitable for use in active-front-end three-phase […]
Polymer capacitors show promise as MLCC alternatives
It pays to know how different capacitor technologies behave when shortages force a search for good substitutes. Randall Scasny | element14 The demand for MLCCs (multilayer ceramic capacitors) has outstripped supplies since 2017. Industry observers expect the shortage will dissipate by 2020, but product manufacturers remain concerned. In a quest to find suitable alternatives, an […]
Boosting performance in 48-V power distribution
New ways of routing power around circuit boards bring more efficiency and fewer thermal problems. Phil Davies | Vicor Corp. Power distribution networks (PDNs) are the backbone of any power system. As system power demands rise, traditional PDNs are under tremendous pressure to deliver enough performance. There are two main ways to improve PDN impact […]
How to make dc/dc converters rugged
Design standards for rail transportation equipment are so severe that they are used as qualifications for products targeting other areas where ruggedness comes in handy. Here’s a quick overview of what these standards entail. Martin Tenhumberg | Traco Power In transportation, there is an emphasis on electronic systems in rail because of expanding safety, telemetry […]
How new inductor cores meet demands for smaller, quieter, and more reliable power
by Patrik Kalbermatten, KEMET Engineered composite cores have enabled inductor manufacturers to pack high inductance into a small volume. New FlakeComposite technology takes core performance to the next level, and adds extra mechanical resilience to enable new types of low-profile devices. Power inductors are crucial devices for managing the flow of energy in switching converters, […]
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