If an application calls for a device with multiple inputs and a single output, it needs a multiplexer. A switch can be used if the need is for one input per output. Analog switches and multiplexers are used in a wide array of systems, including industrial, medical, military/aerospace, consumer, 5G infrastructure, and more. This article […]
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What are the different taxonomies of RFID tags, and how do they differ? part 2
The second part of this FAQ focuses on how RFID tags are categorized based on frequency bands and the presence/absence of microchips in RFID tags. While the classification based on frequency is well known, it helps practicing engineers to know about chipless RFID tags. Types of RFID Tags based on frequency bands Categorizing RFID tags […]
What are the different taxonomies of RFID tags, and how do they differ? part 1
The common way of categorizing RFID tags is based on how they utilize power for communication between the reader and the tag. They can also be classified based on operating frequency and absence/presence of chips. This first part of the FAQ will cover the passive, semi-passive, and active RFID tags categorized based on power. Types […]
What are the different stages of PCB design, testing, and manufacturing?
A printed circuit board (PCB) provides the mechanical foundation, electrical interconnections, and signal routing for electronic devices and systems (Figure 1). By enabling compact, reliable, and high-performance circuit integration, PCBs support various industrial, medical, and consumer applications in data centers and at the intelligent edge. This article discusses the three pillars of effective PCB design […]
What is a PLL for analog signals?
A phase-locked loop (PLL) for analog signals generates an output with a phase that’s precisely matched to the phase of an input reference. Analog PLLs are widely used in high-frequency applications like communication systems and scientific equipment that need low jitter and precise synchronization. This article begins by looking at how PLLs for analog signals […]
What are the advantages of a three op-amp instrumentation amplifier?
An instrumentation amplifier (INA) built using three operational amplifiers (op amps) can provide performance advantages in terms of high input impedance, low output impedance, easily adjustable gain, excellent common-mode rejection ratio (CMRR), high accuracy, and high open-loop gain. This article examines the basic design of INAs and their performance benefits, then discusses some application considerations, […]
What are the three types of logic level translators (LLTs)?
Logic-level translators (LLTs) are electronic circuits that enable communication between devices operating at different voltage levels, such as 3.3V and 5V. Also known as voltage-level translators or level shifters, LLTs convert signals between incompatible logic standards. This article outlines key LLT specifications and features, reviewing bidirectional, high-to-low, and low-to-high LLTs. It also explores the role […]
How AI and ML optimize functional verification for EDA
Functional verification ensures that the register transfer layer (RTL) implementation of semiconductor designs operates according to specified requirements. Electronic engineers typically perform functional verification using hardware verification languages (HVLs) such as SystemVerilog paired with the universal verification methodology (UVM). Other HVLs, such as VHSIC Hardware Description Language (VHDL) and Property Specification Language (PSL), may be […]
EE Training Days kicks-off 2025 with The A to Z of Multi-die Design
Did you know that multi-die architectures now represent over 50% of new semiconductor designs, marking a significant shift in chip development strategy? It’s true. There’s now a clear trend towards more multi-die designs, especially in data center, AI, and server applications where the complexity of the chips is too large to fit on a single […]
What is formal verification, and why is it important?
Formal verification uses mathematical analysis to ensure semiconductor designs perform as intended. Typically automated, it efficiently identifies critical design errors, such as deadlocks, race conditions, and unreachable states. This article reviews the fundamentals of formal verification in semiconductor design, explores its integration with simulation for comprehensive validation, and highlights strategies for optimizing implementation. Defining formal […]
