Operational amplifiers (op amps) and comparators have two inputs, inverting and noninverting, and an output that can usually swing from rail to rail and have the same schematic symbol. So, what’s the difference? This FAQ compares the two devices and digs into some of the similarities and differences. It begins with a top-level comparison of […]
Analog ICs
Analog subsystem simplifies integration of multiple analog IPs into ASICs
Agile Analog has launched its first range of analog subsystems, covering power management, PVT sensing, and sleep management. These innovative, digitally wrapped subsystems significantly reduce the effort required to integrate multiple analog IPs into any ASIC by allowing the IP to be dropped straight into a digital design flow and connected via a standard peripheral […]
How to specify and use voltage references
Voltage references are small components that can have a significant impact, either positive or negative, on system performance. They are precision devices that maintain a constant voltage output even in the presence of changes in temperature, input voltage, and other external parameters. When measuring the analog world, voltage references ensure that data converters, detection circuits, […]
When reality intrudes on component models and equivalent circuits
Determining the utility of an equivalent-circuit model versus construction reality is often a difficult challenge. Using simplified, first-order approximations in models and equivalent circuits is a normal part of engineering life. Without them, we would get mired in the details and harsh reality of the components and their characteristics. We would never be able to […]
Stamped spring pin socket features no solder PCB mount
Ironwood Electronics introduces stamped spring pin socket addressing high performance requirements for testing BGA35 – CBT-BGA-7525. The contactor is a stamped spring pin with 8 gram actuation force per ball and cycle life of 75,000 insertions. The self-inductance of the contactor is 0.92 nH, insertion loss < 1 dB at 24.7 GHz, and capacitance 0.058pF. The current […]
Specialty compound addresses stringed demands of BiTS used to stress test
SABIC introduced the LNP KONDUIT 8TF36E compound, a new specialty material that helps address the stringent demands of burn-in test sockets (BiTS) used to stress-test double-data-rate (DDR) memory integrated circuits (ICs). As the number of pins and the testing temperature for DDR ICs increase and their dimensions shrinks, materials used in BiTS components must deliver […]
How do you use a current mirror?
Current mirrors are common circuits but are mostly invisible, except to designers of analog or mixed-signal integrated circuits who can use large numbers of current mirrors on a single chip. A current mirror copies a current through one active device (such as a BJT or MOSFET) by controlling the current in another active device. If […]
What can you make with MEMS technology?
Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) has several names, including micro-electro-mechanical systems, and micromechatronic systems. In Japan, MEMS is called micromachines, while in Europe, it’s referred to as microsystem technology (MST). Whatever name that’s used, MEMS devices are made using components measuring from 1 to 100 μm (0.001 to 0.1 mm), with MEMS devices ranging from 20 μm […]
Common-mode filters boast 10.7 GHz bandwidth
New common-mode filters from STMicroelectronics have an extremely wide differential bandwidth of 10.7GHz to protect antenna sensitivity in adjacent wireless circuitry from the latest serial digital interfaces. The 2-channel ECMF2-40A100N10 and 4-channel ECMF4-40A100N10 are compatible with high-speed interface standards including USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB4, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort. With their low serial resistance of just 3Ω, which […]
What’s the difference between equalizers?
Equalizers are used to alter the performance of signal chains. In some cases, that means linearizing signal chain performance. In other cases, equalizers are used to introduce nonlinearities. As a result, equalizer designs vary widely from simple passive circuits to complex multi-stage designs and active circuits. This FAQ reviews equalizer basics, looks at equalizers for […]
