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 […]
Industrial
SMD tact switches feature long service life
Würth Elektronik introduces another high-quality switch from the series of washable tact switches. The WS-TASV Tact Switch for SMT assembly is particularly space-saving with a footprint of just 4.1 x 2.8 mm and a height of 1.9 mm. Three variants are available, color-coded according to their actuating force: 200 grams (black), 300 grams (white), and 400 […]
Silicon capacitors sport higher density than MLCCs
Empower Semiconductor has announced that it has expanded its E-CAP family of silicon capacitors with new technologies that offer further breakthroughs in density and performance. Integrating multiple discrete capacitances into a single solid-state device, E-CAP is the world’s thinnest, most compact, and most flexible capacitor solution. The technology brings together a capacitor density that is […]
Precision signal chain platform optimizes system performance in DC to ~10 kHz applications
Analog Devices, Inc. introduced a precision narrow bandwidth signal chain platform that optimizes system performance for signal bandwidths of DC to approximately 10 kHz in industrial and instrumentation applications. The new platform offers a host of complete signal chains with customizable solution options and a curated suite of development tools to simplify the design journey. […]
How does a precision rectifier work?
A precision rectifier, sometimes called a super diode, is an op amp circuit designed to behave like an ideal diode and is used in high-precision signal processing applications. It’s not a synchronous rectifier. The op-amp-based precision rectifier should not be confused with power MOSFET-based synchronous rectification. Because there is no diode voltage drop between the […]
What is PSRR and why is it important in op amps and LDOs?
The power supply rejection ratio (PSRR) describes the ability of a circuit to suppress any power supply variations from passing to its output signal and is typically measured in dB. It’s most often used with operational amplifiers (op amps), dc/dc converters, linear regulators, and low drop out regulators (LDOs). For op amps, the PSRR describes […]
Thick-film resistors feature high temperature stability
Commercial and industrial power electronics increasingly demand robust power supplies with high stability and low thermal resistance. For these requirements, standard chip resistors may not be the best solution. Wide terminal chip resistors, such as Stackpole’s RMCW, provide terminations on the long sides of the chip to provide better current handling and thermal resistance. The […]
Infineon’s latest class D audio module delivers higher output power, smaller footprint
Class D audio power amplifiers offer a combination of small size, low heat dissipation, high integration, and excellent sound quality. Unlocking the potential of its best-in-class power MOSFET technology, Infineon Technologies AG introduces the MERUS 2-channel, analog input, class D audio amplifier multichip module (MCM) MA5332MS. It is a powerful upgrade to its predecessor, offering the same […]
Subminiature snap switch supports ultra-low thru high-current apps
C&K has expanded its snap switch product offering with the new sealed subminiature ZMT Series. The ZMT Series snap switch is offered with IP67-rated encapsulated wires, customized levers, and can be offered as part of the module. The ZMT is an updated and improved version of the popular ZMA switch. C&K developed the ZMT in direct response […]
SMD transformers handle ultrasonic frequencies
TDK Corporation presents the new B78416A* series of compact EPCOS transformers with EP 6 cores for ultrasonic applications. The series comprises five types with transformation ratios between 1:1:8.42 and 1:1:15. Depending on the type, the new SMD-version transformers offer inductance values between 3 mH and 5 mH and are suitable for frequencies between 52 kHz […]