The MM4250 cryogenic SP6T switch from Menlo Microsystems is designed for switching and control of high-speed and RF signals inside dilution refrigerators used in quantum computing and cryogenic research. Using electrostatic actuation, the switch draws only hundreds of nanoamps per operation, resulting in a near-zero thermal footprint that avoids temperature rise and cooldown delays associated […]
Products
Avoid ground loops in mixed-signal circuits, part 2
Picking up where we left off in Part 1, we need to explore some methods to mitigate problems caused by unpredictable ground currents. Let’s start with some simplification, although we may need to first complicate things to then simplify them. First, let’s arrange a massive ground plane around the analog circuitry on the PC board. […]
Integrated DSP functions reduce external processing requirements
The Plural-DSP analog-to-digital converter family from Silanna Semiconductor integrates a proprietary converter core with on-chip DSP to reduce system complexity in signal-chain designs. Available in 12-, 14-, and 16-bit resolutions with sampling rates from 5 to 250 MSPS, the Plural-DSP ADC family supports functions such as decimation, digital down-conversion, interleaving, and IQ-mismatch correction, eliminating the […]
Avoid ground loops in mixed-signal circuits part 1
Ground loops can degrade circuit performance and ruin your day. Follow these tips to prevent them from occurring in circuits that use analog and digital components. A typical mixed-signal system — a system comprised of digital logic and analog circuitry — uses multiple power supplies. Typical voltages include +5 VDC, +3.3 VDC, and/or +1.8 VDC […]
10 MHz op amp features high stability, low noise
The TSZ901 op amp from STMicroelectronics maintains its stability across its entire temperature range. Features include: Maximum input offset current of 1200 pA holds steady across the entire temperature range of -40 °C to +125°C; Input offset voltage is 8 μV from -40°C to 125°C); draws 1.5 mA at VCC = 5V. The TSZ901 is AEC-Q100 […]
Receiver lineup spans 16 – 50 ω impedance options
Same Sky’s Audio Group has expanded its speaker portfolio with additional receiver models intended for over-the-ear applications. The CMR receiver family targets compact mechanical envelopes while providing a wide acoustic output range, with sound pressure levels specified from 103 to 135 dB when measured using an artificial ear. The new receivers are offered in package […]
Manual-actuated QFN24 socket supports solderless device evaluation
Ironwood Electronics has released a test socket designed for QFN24 devices that uses a double-latch manual actuator. The socket is intended to support device evaluation, characterisation, screening, and other lab or production-adjacent test workflows where repeatable contact and quick device changeover are required. The double-latch actuation mechanism is designed to apply controlled compression during clamping, […]
Supercapacitors explained
Supercapacitors are a special type of electrochemical energy storage device noted for their ability to deliver sudden bursts of energy. Batteries typically provide the bulk energy required for sustained operation, whereas dielectric capacitors offer the rapid discharge rates necessary for filtering and pulse power. In such a scenario, supercapacitors address the gap between these two […]
4 GHz elastomer socket Introduced for BGA1440 with –1 dB insertion loss
Ironwood Electronics introduces a new elastomer-based socket solution targeting high-frequency BGA devices. The 94 GHz elastomer socket is designed for BGA1440 packages and enables signal paths with roughly –1 dB insertion loss at 94 GHz between each ball and the printed circuit board. The socket employs a swivel-lid compression mechanism to simplify device insertion and […]
Common-mode chokes suppress noise for current up to 15 A
Bourns, Inc. announced its SRF7038A Series AEC-Q200 compliant, automotive-grade common-mode chokes. The new high current chokes feature an extended current capability up to 15 A and a broad impedance range of 70 to 3000 ohms. These features make the SRF7038A an excellent power line Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) suppression solution for use in consumer, industrial, and automotive systems. […]









