The traditional, older type of solder is a mixture of lead (Pb) and tin (Sn). This type of (60/40 – Pb/Sn) solder melts at 200°C and is typically made up of 60 percent tin and 40 percent lead. However, lead-free solder is desirable today, in terms of avoiding a toxic environment. Lead-free solder is a […]
Designing with reed switches: What you need to know
The chief benefit of reed switches is that they draw zero power when they’re closed. Here are the basics of employing these versatile components. Contributed by Standex Electronics, www.standexelectronics.com It’s easy to see why reed sensors and relays are good options for circuits that put a premium on energy efficiency. Normally closed (Form B) reed […]
A comparison of MEMS and electret condenser microphones
By Bruce Rose, Principal Applications Engineer, CUI Inc Many of today’s smart devices such as home digital assistants and IoT sensors are required to “hear” their environment. There is a growing demand for microphones that are not only highly miniaturized, but also robust, easy to design-in, and resistant to nearby acoustic or electrical noise. Fortunately, […]
Analog computation, Part 2: When and how
Analog circuits based on op amps can be used to implement mathematical functions and are still useful in many applications due to their unique attributes. Part 1 of this FAQ looked at the basic need for and virtues of analog-based computational circuits. Part 2 looks at some implementation specifics and considerations. Q: What are the […]
Analog computation, Part 1: What and why
Analog circuits based on op amps can be used to implement mathematical functions and are still useful in many applications due to their unique attributes. Say the word “computer” or “computation” and the instinctively associated concept is “digital.” That makes sense since most computers and computation functions are implemented with general digital logic, specialized arithmetic […]
Synthesized tuning, Part 2: Advanced synthesizers and performance
Part 1 of this FAQ looked at the basic issues and topologies related to the challenge of frequency synthesis. Part 2 continues with advanced approaches and their attributes, as well as general concerns when choosing a synthesizer. Q: Are there other digitally-controlled synthesizer topologies? A: Yes. A widely used one is called the classical phase […]
Synthesized tuning, Part 1: Basic frequency-synthesizer principles
Frequency synthesizers of various architectures, made possible by IC technology, are a key building blocks for applications which must accurately tune multiple channels, and hop from one frequency to another while using a single signal source such as a crystal oscillator. When you want to tune a desired radio station — AM or FM — […]
Via-in-pad guidelines for PCBs
Duane Benson, Chief Technology Champion at Screaming Circuits Via in pad seems to be one of the hot topics these days. It’s a bit of a tough one too. The SMT guys pretty much always say, “don’t ever do it.” However, with certain parts, the component manufacturer strongly recommends it. You gotta love those mutually […]
Choosing the right encoder – open-collector, push-pull or differential output?
Position encoders are widely used in motion control applications and many different types are available. To choose the optimum device for a given application, engineers must decide between absolute, incremental or commutation encoders, which present data in various formats such as quadrature, motor-pole or a serial protocol. The resolution required, as well as dimensions and […]
Wheatstone bridge, Part 1: Principles and basic applications
Although the electronics industry is relentlessly driven by advances in materials, components, and architectures, the “new” obviously also builds on the “old” and often still uses it, albeit in new guises. There’s still a viable place and need for old devices such as the transformer, solenoid, relay, and Wheatstone bridge. This FAQ will look at […]
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