The well-known and extensively analyzed lumped-element bandpass filter is generally not suitable for the RF/microwave region, but there are many distributed-element, energy-based alternatives. Just say the word “filters,” and for many engineers, the mention of this topic stirs a mix of feelings ranging from fear to relief. Why fear? Because filters as a topic in […]
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Rudiments of radiated EMI/EMC
Radiated emissions standards are generally more focused on higher-frequency noise sources. At about 30MHz, there is a transition between concern with conducted and radiated emissions. Above that frequency, conducted emissions are not usually a major problem. And below 30MHz, the various interconnects and conductors in most electronic systems are not effective antennas for emitting radiated […]
Conducted and coupled EMI/EMC concepts
In addition to the International Telecommunications Union (discussed in part 1 of this FAQ series), there are several organizations that define and regulate acceptable levels of conducted and radiated emissions from electronic devices. These various agencies have developed numerous standards generally based on the operational environment of the specific device. Effectively managing EMI is a […]
EMI, EMC, EMS, and the ITU
Controlling electromagnetic interference (EMI), also referred to as radio frequency interference (RFI), and minimizing electromagnetic susceptibility (EMS) are two important aspects of maintaining electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). Ensuring electromagnetic compatibility at a specified level and under specific operating conditions is a common demand in the design of almost all electronic systems. Common terms used when discussing […]
Lasers, optics, electronics and more yield terahertz sources, Part 4 – Laughing gas
The terahertz part of the electromagnetic spectrum between millimeter waves and optical range remains a largely untapped, difficult-to-use resource; researchers are investigating different techniques for efficiently generating terahertz waves to promote the use of this part of the spectrum. Approach #3: Laughing Gas A team at MIT in close collaboration with one at nearby […]
Lasers, optics, electronics and more yield terahertz sources, Part 3 – Infrared lasers and plasma
The terahertz part of the electromagnetic spectrum between millimeter waves and optical range remains a largely untapped, difficult-to-use resource; researchers are investigating different techniques for efficiently generating terahertz waves to promote use of this part of the spectrum. Approach #2: Infrared Lasers and Plasma A research group based at TU Wein (Vienna University of Technology), […]
Lasers, optics, electronics and more yield terahertz sources, Part 2 – Lasers and acoustics
The terahertz part of the electromagnetic spectrum between millimeter waves and optical range remains a largely untapped, difficult-to-use resource; researchers are investigating different techniques for efficiently generating terahertz waves to promote the use of this part of the spectrum. Approach #1: Lasers and Acoustic Modulation A recent project and paper by a collaborative team from […]
Lasers, optics, electronics and more yield terahertz sources, Part 1 – Context
The terahertz part of the electromagnetic spectrum between millimeter waves and optical range remains a largely untapped, difficult-to-use resource; researchers are investigating different techniques for efficiently generating terahertz waves to promote the use of this part of the spectrum. Electromagnetic energy in the terahertz (THz) region of the spectrum, nominally 300 GHz/0.3 THz to 10 […]
Sound design considerations for Class D amps
The first two FAQs in this series, “Class D Amplifiers for High-Efficiency Switched-Mode Sound” and “Class D Audio – Why Now?” focused on basic Class D amplifier topologies, modulation techniques, general component and technology advancements that have made Class D amplifiers an increasingly viable option, and the evolving tradeoffs between silicon and GaN power devices. […]
Class D audio – Why now?
Class D amplifiers were first proposed in the 1950s. Why have they only recently been gaining more widespread popularity? The answer involves several factors: There were no switching transistors that met the performance demands of Class D amplifiers until the 1980s. And it was not until the mid-1990s that Class D integrated circuits became available. […]