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, […]
Standard amplifier functions in HEV/EV battery management systems
by Sanjeev Manadhar, Texas Instruments Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and electric vehicles (EVs) are popular because they have low (to zero) emissions and fewer maintenance requirements while offering better efficiency and drive performance. New HEV/EV companies are emerging, while existing automakers are investing more in HEV/EV to compete for market share. The heart of the […]
Advanced circuit protection for connected autonomous vehicles
New protocols for high connectivity need robust protection for reliability and safety. James Colby | Littelfuse, Inc. At the turn of the century, automobiles hosted many electronic systems that were basically independent. Since then, the growth of connectivity and rise of artificial intelligence and machine learning have changed automotive electronics dramatically. Vehicles of all types […]
Keeping connected electronics cool with thermoelectric modules
Future connected vehicles are characterized by clusters of densely packed electronics. Thermoelectric modules can keep the temperature of these hot spots at manageable levels. Andrew Dereka | Laird Thermal Systems Advances in automotive electronics tend to come in small packages where dense circuitry squeezed into a pint-sized footprint generates lots of heat and thermal challenges […]
Want a new perspective on battery management? Buy a plug-in EV.
One facet of EV ownership: Thinking of your daily commute power consumption as equivalent to the sunlight hitting 20 ft2 of your lawn. Rudye McGlothlin, Silicon Labs Earlier this year I took my first step into the EV future by buying a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) – a Chevrolet Volt. A unique car in […]
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