Logic gates efficiently process binary data to facilitate precise operations within integrated circuits (ICs). This article explains how these gates function and highlights their crucial role in digital and mixed-signal analog applications. It also reviews the seven most common logic gates, exploring key capabilities, operations, and use cases. Understanding logic gate operations and functions Logic […]
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What is “twin-lead” transmission line — and what happened to it?
Twin-lead line was once the dominant transmission medium for consumer products such as TVs; it has been largely, but not entirely, made obsolete by coaxial cable. When engineers need to make a wired RF connection to create a transmission path or line between two subsystems such as a transmitter/receiver and its antenna, their first and […]
Why are analog signal conditioners important?
Signal conditioners filter, isolate, and amplify analog signals in consumer devices, measuring instruments, and industrial and automotive systems. This article highlights key applications that rely on signal conditioners and reviews their most common functions. It also explores different types of signal conditioners: universal, multi-channel, splitters, and isolators. From handheld devices to data acquisition systems Analog […]
Active baluns bridge the microwave and digital worlds
To achieve the datasheet performance of ultra-high-speed data converters, now clocking to 64 GS/sec, the handoff to and from the microwave domain must be near perfect. To preserve the data converters’ spurious-free dynamic range, a new category of component has been developed that converts between the differential and single-ended signal domains while amplifying and filtering […]
Why use a switching regulator instead of a linear regulator for DC-to-DC conversion?
Most electronic systems rely on regulators to deliver stable direct current (DC) levels. This article explains how regulators operate and reviews the two primary types of regulators used for DC-to-DC conversion: switching and linear. It also compares their advantages and limitations, highlighting common use cases and applications for each. Regulating and refining DC voltage levels […]
Passive RFID finds unanticipated mass-market applications: part 2
Passive RFID tags have been widely adopted, and some applications show creative adaptation to unmet needs. While many uses for passive RFID tags were predicted and expected, innovators implemented some that were not obvious. This part will look at two of those applications. Clothing-store “mass” checkout One obvious application predicted for passive RFID labels was […]
Passive RFID finds unanticipated mass-market applications: part 1
Passive RFID tags have been widely adopted, and some applications show creative adaptation to unmet needs. It’s interesting to see how advances in technology often are adapted to applications that were not highlighted in their original “use case” scenarios and how clever people adapt or leverage new technologies in unscripted ways. A good example of […]
What are the different types of circuit simulation?
Electronic engineers use advanced simulation tools to create virtual representations of complex electronic circuits. These “digital twins” streamline the circuit design process, accurately modeling silicon behavior and performance before physical fabrication. This article reviews the three primary circuit simulation categories: analog, digital, and mixed. It also discusses different simulation levels, such as block and chip, and […]
What is analog design for integrated circuits?
Analog design for integrated circuits (ICs) involves creating devices and systems that process continuous signals. Analog plays a crucial role in translating real-world information such as sound, light, and temperature into electrical signals and vice versa. This article discusses the primary differences between analog and digital ICs, reviews key analog applications, and explores common analog […]
If you’re designing RFICs, here are some tools to consider
Radiofrequency ICs (RFICs) are found in consumer devices, portable electronics, automotive, military, and medical systems. They typically operate from several hundred MHz to multiple GHz. Those high frequencies present designers with significant layout challenges to ensure proper functioning, including the use of transmission line technology for efficient operation. This FAQ presents several options for RFIC […]
