USA: Littelfuse Inc., the global leader in circuit protection, has completed the previously announced acquisition of Hamlin Inc. from Key Safety Systems for $145 million.
“We are pleased that the acquisition has closed on schedule. Hamlin is an excellent addition to our company and a significant step forward in our strategy to build a global sensor platform,” said Gordon Hunter, CEO.
Friday, May 31, 2013
Momentive opens expanded Korea technology center
SOUTH KOREA: Momentive Performance Materials Inc. (MPM) opened its expanded technology center in Seoul, South Korea, creating a global innovation center focused on the electronics industry.
The expanded innovation center combines existing technical labs with application development, research and development (R&D), testing and manufacturing operations.
The expanded Korea Technology Center (KTC) is devoted to developing materials and solutions for display, light-emitting diode (LED) and organic light-emitting diode (OLED) applications. The center strengthens MPM’s existing presence in the region; based in the Gasan Digital Complex, the center is more than 1500 square meters.
“By merging world-class technical talent and an arsenal of advanced equipment at the epicenter of the electronics industry, we hope to pioneer the ideas that will revolutionize the industry and transform everyday life,” says Ray Kolberg, senior VP of Formulated Products, Momentive Performance Materials. “And, by housing the KTC close to key customers for the industry, we are able to offer customers faster response times, more opportunities for collaboration, and stronger growth programs, all critical to helping them be successful.”
The expanded innovation center combines existing technical labs with application development, research and development (R&D), testing and manufacturing operations.
The expanded Korea Technology Center (KTC) is devoted to developing materials and solutions for display, light-emitting diode (LED) and organic light-emitting diode (OLED) applications. The center strengthens MPM’s existing presence in the region; based in the Gasan Digital Complex, the center is more than 1500 square meters.
“By merging world-class technical talent and an arsenal of advanced equipment at the epicenter of the electronics industry, we hope to pioneer the ideas that will revolutionize the industry and transform everyday life,” says Ray Kolberg, senior VP of Formulated Products, Momentive Performance Materials. “And, by housing the KTC close to key customers for the industry, we are able to offer customers faster response times, more opportunities for collaboration, and stronger growth programs, all critical to helping them be successful.”
Mentor Graphics Andras Poppe recognized by JEDEC Standards Organization
USA: Mentor Graphics Corp. announced that Dr. Andras Poppe of Mentor Graphics and the Budapest University of Technology has been recognized by the JEDEC international standards organization for his significant contributions to the JESD51-5x series of thermal testing standards for Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs).
The series of standards are the industry’s first international thermal testing standards targeting thermal characterization of power LED components, which will benefit both LED manufacturers and LED integrators worldwide.
“JEDEC standards are utilized worldwide and enable innovation, grow markets and lead to more efficient R&D,” stated John J. Kelly, president of JEDEC. “JEDEC congratulates Andras Poppe on this well-deserved honor, and we also express our gratitude to Mentor Graphics for its support of the development of open industry standards.”
Prior to the publication of the JESD51-5x series of standards, LED manufacturers and assembly/packaging companies had to rely on datasheet information, which was often questionable. Dr. Poppe’s active involvement in the JEDEC JESD51-5x standards series (which include JESD51-50, JESD51-51, JESD51-52 and JESD51-53) focused on standardizing thermal characterization measurement of power LED components.
Dr. Poppe applied his expertise in thermal and radiometric/photometric characterization of high-power LEDs to help the consortium select the most appropriate methods of measurement.
The series of standards are the industry’s first international thermal testing standards targeting thermal characterization of power LED components, which will benefit both LED manufacturers and LED integrators worldwide.
“JEDEC standards are utilized worldwide and enable innovation, grow markets and lead to more efficient R&D,” stated John J. Kelly, president of JEDEC. “JEDEC congratulates Andras Poppe on this well-deserved honor, and we also express our gratitude to Mentor Graphics for its support of the development of open industry standards.”
Prior to the publication of the JESD51-5x series of standards, LED manufacturers and assembly/packaging companies had to rely on datasheet information, which was often questionable. Dr. Poppe’s active involvement in the JEDEC JESD51-5x standards series (which include JESD51-50, JESD51-51, JESD51-52 and JESD51-53) focused on standardizing thermal characterization measurement of power LED components.
Dr. Poppe applied his expertise in thermal and radiometric/photometric characterization of high-power LEDs to help the consortium select the most appropriate methods of measurement.
Mouser stocking LUXEON M LEDs from Philips Lumileds
TAIWAN: Mouser Electronics Inc. is stocking the new LUXEON M LEDs from Philips Lumileds, delivering high flux density and high efficacy with Freedom From Binning.
Philips Lumileds LUXEON M is an illumination grade LED designed to enable indoor, outdoor, and industrial applications and is optimized either for high efficiency or low cost, where exceptional flux density and uniformity are critical.
With leading performance, LUXEON M emitters deliver high efficacy and high flux density from a uniform source with tight correlated color temperature control, suited for outdoor and wide area lighting applications.
The 12-volt emitters utilize standard drive electronics to simplify design and minimize costs. Hot testing and specification results in exceptional quality of light and Freedom From Binning, allowing outdoor and industrial luminaire manufacturers to reduce system costs and deliver their most efficient solutions.
Philips Lumileds LUXEON M is an illumination grade LED designed to enable indoor, outdoor, and industrial applications and is optimized either for high efficiency or low cost, where exceptional flux density and uniformity are critical.
With leading performance, LUXEON M emitters deliver high efficacy and high flux density from a uniform source with tight correlated color temperature control, suited for outdoor and wide area lighting applications.
The 12-volt emitters utilize standard drive electronics to simplify design and minimize costs. Hot testing and specification results in exceptional quality of light and Freedom From Binning, allowing outdoor and industrial luminaire manufacturers to reduce system costs and deliver their most efficient solutions.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
iWatt single-stage SSL LED drivers deliver exceptional bulb dimming performance
USA: iWatt Inc., a leading provider of digital-centric power management integrated circuits (ICs), launched its latest single-stage, solid state lighting (SSL) LED drivers to address cost, performance and lifetime issues in dimmable bulb applications.
Following the introduction of its single-stage LED driver for non-dimmable incandescent bulb replacement applications earlier this year, iWatt is debuting the iW3606 (8W output power) and iW3608 (15W output power), giving LED bulb manufacturers an alternative approach to significantly lower cost and tackle the lifetime and performance issues in dimmable applications.
Both new LED drivers allow SSL designers to reduce their bill of materials (BOM) cost by 20-40 percent compared to competitive solutions. The iW3606 and iW3608 incorporate iWatt’s patented, configurable over-temperature protection (OTP) and derating functionality to provide predictability and reliability of bulb operating life and offer what the company believes is the industry’s lowest pop-on current, less than 5 percent of light output.
Designed for all retrofit bulbs, including candle and GU10 lamp replacements used in existing phase-cut dimmer installations, the iW3606 and iW3608 manage the key issues that could impact consumer adoption of SSL lighting, including poor dimming performance (pop-on, popcorning, dead travel, drop-out, flicker), short bulb lifetime or failure, and high cost.
Both drivers meet or exceed global regulations for power quality and efficiency with a high power factor (PF) of less than 0.92, low total harmonic distortion (THD) of less than 20 percent, and high efficiency. The iW3606 and iW3608 have already been designed in to the next-generation of dimmable SSL bulb products from key iWatt customers.
The on-chip over-temperature protection (OTP) and derating feature of the iW3606 and iW3608 addresses the thermal issues caused by the high and unpredictable operating temperatures in dimmable SSL applications. The lifetime of many of the components in the LED driver circuit, especially electrolytic capacitors, degrades as temperatures increase, potentially reducing overall bulb lifetime to less than 2,000 hours, well under the 30,000 to 50,000 hours expected for SSL bulbs.
iWatt’s OTP derating monitors the temperature inside the sealed SSL bulb and when thermal conditions reach a point set by the system designer, the LED drivers automatically reduce the current drive to the LEDs, lowering the power dissipation and resulting in cooler overall operation. This helps prevent exceeding the temperature rating of the electrolytic capacitors in the system, helping to ensure a predictable and safer bulb operating life.
Following the introduction of its single-stage LED driver for non-dimmable incandescent bulb replacement applications earlier this year, iWatt is debuting the iW3606 (8W output power) and iW3608 (15W output power), giving LED bulb manufacturers an alternative approach to significantly lower cost and tackle the lifetime and performance issues in dimmable applications.
Both new LED drivers allow SSL designers to reduce their bill of materials (BOM) cost by 20-40 percent compared to competitive solutions. The iW3606 and iW3608 incorporate iWatt’s patented, configurable over-temperature protection (OTP) and derating functionality to provide predictability and reliability of bulb operating life and offer what the company believes is the industry’s lowest pop-on current, less than 5 percent of light output.
Designed for all retrofit bulbs, including candle and GU10 lamp replacements used in existing phase-cut dimmer installations, the iW3606 and iW3608 manage the key issues that could impact consumer adoption of SSL lighting, including poor dimming performance (pop-on, popcorning, dead travel, drop-out, flicker), short bulb lifetime or failure, and high cost.
Both drivers meet or exceed global regulations for power quality and efficiency with a high power factor (PF) of less than 0.92, low total harmonic distortion (THD) of less than 20 percent, and high efficiency. The iW3606 and iW3608 have already been designed in to the next-generation of dimmable SSL bulb products from key iWatt customers.
The on-chip over-temperature protection (OTP) and derating feature of the iW3606 and iW3608 addresses the thermal issues caused by the high and unpredictable operating temperatures in dimmable SSL applications. The lifetime of many of the components in the LED driver circuit, especially electrolytic capacitors, degrades as temperatures increase, potentially reducing overall bulb lifetime to less than 2,000 hours, well under the 30,000 to 50,000 hours expected for SSL bulbs.
iWatt’s OTP derating monitors the temperature inside the sealed SSL bulb and when thermal conditions reach a point set by the system designer, the LED drivers automatically reduce the current drive to the LEDs, lowering the power dissipation and resulting in cooler overall operation. This helps prevent exceeding the temperature rating of the electrolytic capacitors in the system, helping to ensure a predictable and safer bulb operating life.
Cree intros industry’s first no-compromise ceramic mid-power LEDs
USA: Cree Inc. is redefining the mid-power LED market with the new XLamp XH Series LEDs – the first family of mid-power ceramic LEDs that offer no-compromise performance and reliability.
Unlike today’s common mid-power plastic packages, XLamp XH-G and XH-B LEDs enable lighting manufacturers to create a new generation of more energy-efficient, longer life LED lighting solutions without sacrificing cost or performance. XH LEDs are optimized for fluorescent replacement lighting applications such as troffers and panel lights, where high efficacy, lifetime and smooth appearance are critical.
The XH-G LED delivers leading efficacy levels of up to 170 lumens-per-watt at 65 mA, 5000K, 80 CRI and 25°C. In addition, the ceramic-based XH LEDs are designed to deliver the long L70 lifetimes at high temperature and high current operation of Cree’s other high-power LEDs, such as XP and XT LEDs.
In comparison, plastic LEDs are known for very short L70 lifetimes at high temperature and high current operation. The XH LEDs allow lighting manufacturers to offer products that meet the reliability expectations of LED technology.
Both XH-G and XH-B LEDs share a common 3.0mm x 3.0mm footprint package with a 13 percent wider beam angle than most plastic mid-power LEDs. Cree XLamp XH LEDs are offered in 2700K to 7000K color temperatures with high CRI options available. Samples are available now and production quantities are available with standard lead times.
Unlike today’s common mid-power plastic packages, XLamp XH-G and XH-B LEDs enable lighting manufacturers to create a new generation of more energy-efficient, longer life LED lighting solutions without sacrificing cost or performance. XH LEDs are optimized for fluorescent replacement lighting applications such as troffers and panel lights, where high efficacy, lifetime and smooth appearance are critical.
The XH-G LED delivers leading efficacy levels of up to 170 lumens-per-watt at 65 mA, 5000K, 80 CRI and 25°C. In addition, the ceramic-based XH LEDs are designed to deliver the long L70 lifetimes at high temperature and high current operation of Cree’s other high-power LEDs, such as XP and XT LEDs.
In comparison, plastic LEDs are known for very short L70 lifetimes at high temperature and high current operation. The XH LEDs allow lighting manufacturers to offer products that meet the reliability expectations of LED technology.
Both XH-G and XH-B LEDs share a common 3.0mm x 3.0mm footprint package with a 13 percent wider beam angle than most plastic mid-power LEDs. Cree XLamp XH LEDs are offered in 2700K to 7000K color temperatures with high CRI options available. Samples are available now and production quantities are available with standard lead times.
Estimated 24 million light vehicles will deploy LED headlights by 2020
USA: The Automotive Electronics Service report, "LED Headlights: Styling Drives Growth, Control and Cost Challenges Remain", Strategy Analytics offers two scenarios for semiconductor LED (Light Emitting Diode) headlight adoption: Meeting demand from luxury brands and high end model segments for enhanced styling, some 12 percent of light vehicles by 2020 will feature LED headlights; however, should cost reduction strategies prove successful, deployment will enter the mass market and production penetration will increase to approximately 21 percent (24 million vehicles).
Challenges facing headlight designers' desire to use the styling flexibility offered by LED adoption include brightness levels from current LED chips, thermal issues, complexity of controlling LED headlights and their increased functionality, and ultimately, the higher assembly costs when compared to competing halogen- and xenon-based systems.
Players in the market are making use of platform designs in making LED headlights flexible to meet the differing demands of the various auto makers, in order to limit development costs. Some Tier 1 suppliers are implementing cost-down strategies by limiting the number of LED chips in the headlight design. Many designs use LEDs primarily for low beam, and use conventional halogen bulbs for the less frequently used high beam. The idea is to make LED headlights more affordable and thus widen their appeal and adoption on high volume mid and lower segment vehicles.
"As with many other electronic features," said Kevin Mak, analyst in the Automotive Electronics Service (AES) at Strategy Analytics, "intensifying competition among auto makers is forcing the growth of LED headlights. Innovative and attractive LED vehicle headlamp designs have captured consumer attention and are raising interest in feature enhancements, such as cornering lights and automatic high beam assistance. LEDs can offer these advantages, however they come at a cost."
"On the supply side, lighting vendors must find adaptable solutions in developing new LED headlight designs for more frequent model cycles and the more compact model segments," Mak also added. "At the same time, more complicated matrix headlight systems will enter the high-end market, posing even greater technical challenges for both module designers and semiconductor component suppliers."
Challenges facing headlight designers' desire to use the styling flexibility offered by LED adoption include brightness levels from current LED chips, thermal issues, complexity of controlling LED headlights and their increased functionality, and ultimately, the higher assembly costs when compared to competing halogen- and xenon-based systems.
Players in the market are making use of platform designs in making LED headlights flexible to meet the differing demands of the various auto makers, in order to limit development costs. Some Tier 1 suppliers are implementing cost-down strategies by limiting the number of LED chips in the headlight design. Many designs use LEDs primarily for low beam, and use conventional halogen bulbs for the less frequently used high beam. The idea is to make LED headlights more affordable and thus widen their appeal and adoption on high volume mid and lower segment vehicles.
"As with many other electronic features," said Kevin Mak, analyst in the Automotive Electronics Service (AES) at Strategy Analytics, "intensifying competition among auto makers is forcing the growth of LED headlights. Innovative and attractive LED vehicle headlamp designs have captured consumer attention and are raising interest in feature enhancements, such as cornering lights and automatic high beam assistance. LEDs can offer these advantages, however they come at a cost."
"On the supply side, lighting vendors must find adaptable solutions in developing new LED headlight designs for more frequent model cycles and the more compact model segments," Mak also added. "At the same time, more complicated matrix headlight systems will enter the high-end market, posing even greater technical challenges for both module designers and semiconductor component suppliers."
China electronic components distributors expect average revenue growth of 23 percent in 2013
CHINA: Electronic components distributors in China expect continued revenue growth of 23 percent in 2013, despite ongoing economic pressures in the global market.
This is among the findings of the 13th Annual Electronic Components Distributor Survey announced today by Electronics Supply & Manufacturing-China (ESM-China), a leading electronics management title published by Global Sources' joint venture, eMedia Asia Ltd.
Surveyed distributors indicated an average revenue growth of 18 percent in 2012, with main markets being consumer electronics, industrial electronics, and networking and communications systems. This year, the markets of note are security and surveillance, medical electronics, smart grid and LED lightings.
A total of 126 senior managers working for leading components distributors in China and 2,274 corporate, purchasing and procurement managers from China's electronics manufacturers participated in the Survey -- which aims to take an in-depth look into their current challenges and future strategies.
On average, China manufacturers purchased 197 million yuan worth of components in 2012, of which 61 percent were from distributors. This represented a 7 percentage point increase compared with 2011. Additionally, 69 percent of the manufacturers indicated that they would further increase the proportion of components purchased from distributors in 2013.
Manufacturers are deepening their relationships with distributors due to the latter's increasing capability to deliver value-added services. For franchised distributors, the most valued services are technical support (49 percent) and small-volume procurement (28 percent); for independent distributors, the most valued services include sourcing of hard-to-find components (54 percent) and small-volume procurement (37 percent). For technical support, reference design (71 percent) and field application support (70 percent) are most in demand.
Manufacturers choose by quality and price
Product quality remains the prime consideration when choosing distributors (49 percent), followed by price (34 percent for franchised distributors and 37 percent for independent distributors) and delivery lead times (23 percent and 32 percent respectively).
Unstable quality, long delivery lead times and uncompetitive prices are China manufacturers' major issues when working with distributors.
"Thanks to the continued support from local and international distributors, ESM-China's annual Survey continues to provide a strong and credible barometer of the industry. Despite the challenging global economic environment, these distributors remain cautiously optimistic about the China market in 2013. This is in line with manufacturers' plans to increase the ratio of components purchased from distributors," said ESM-China Publisher, Brandon Smith .
Softening demand was the main challenge facing distributors in 2012 which they addressed by developing new application markets, expanding customer base as well as strengthening marketing activities.
The proportion of online transaction in 2012 was 11 percent for franchised distributors (2 percentage points higher than 2011), and 20 percent for independent distributors (unchanged from 2011).
China's most preferred components distributors revealed
The Survey also revealed the most preferred components distributors, as voted by managers of China's electronics manufacturers. Winners of each category (in alphabetical order) are:
Top 10 Most Preferred Local Franchised Distributors: Asiacom Technology, Burnon International, CEAC, Comtech Group, Fortune Techgroup, Honestar Electronics, Interine Electronics, Mornsun Electronics, Powertek Group and Shenzhen Sekorm Advanced Technologies.
Top 10 Most Preferred Overseas Franchised Distributors: Arrow Electronics, Avnet, Cytech Technology, Excelpoint Systems (HK), Future Electronics, HK Baite (Group), Jetronic Technology, Mouser Electronics, WPG Holdings and WT Microelectronics.
Top 5 Most Preferred Independent Distributors: Advanced MP, America II, Ample Solutions, Mogultech International and Pioneer Electronics.
Top 5 Most Promising Distributors: Hi-Hone, Sigma Technology, Skysoon Communication, Weltronics Component and Willas-Array Electronics.
Top 3 Rising Star Distributors: Infinitrue Technology, RightIC and Shenzhen Shenmei Technology.
Top 3 Best e-Commerce Distributors: Beijing Excellent Communication Technology, Lierda Science and Technology, and RS Components.
Top 3 Best Technical Support Distributors: DXY Technology, Fengbao Electronic and Guangzhou ZLG-MCU.
Top 3 Best Logistics Service Distributors: Majestic Trading Development, Mission Electronics and Vadas International.
Analyst's Choice -- Outstanding Executive of the Year: Charles Tan, Vice President of Future Electronics Asia Pac.
This is among the findings of the 13th Annual Electronic Components Distributor Survey announced today by Electronics Supply & Manufacturing-China (ESM-China), a leading electronics management title published by Global Sources' joint venture, eMedia Asia Ltd.
Surveyed distributors indicated an average revenue growth of 18 percent in 2012, with main markets being consumer electronics, industrial electronics, and networking and communications systems. This year, the markets of note are security and surveillance, medical electronics, smart grid and LED lightings.
A total of 126 senior managers working for leading components distributors in China and 2,274 corporate, purchasing and procurement managers from China's electronics manufacturers participated in the Survey -- which aims to take an in-depth look into their current challenges and future strategies.
On average, China manufacturers purchased 197 million yuan worth of components in 2012, of which 61 percent were from distributors. This represented a 7 percentage point increase compared with 2011. Additionally, 69 percent of the manufacturers indicated that they would further increase the proportion of components purchased from distributors in 2013.
Manufacturers are deepening their relationships with distributors due to the latter's increasing capability to deliver value-added services. For franchised distributors, the most valued services are technical support (49 percent) and small-volume procurement (28 percent); for independent distributors, the most valued services include sourcing of hard-to-find components (54 percent) and small-volume procurement (37 percent). For technical support, reference design (71 percent) and field application support (70 percent) are most in demand.
Manufacturers choose by quality and price
Product quality remains the prime consideration when choosing distributors (49 percent), followed by price (34 percent for franchised distributors and 37 percent for independent distributors) and delivery lead times (23 percent and 32 percent respectively).
Unstable quality, long delivery lead times and uncompetitive prices are China manufacturers' major issues when working with distributors.
"Thanks to the continued support from local and international distributors, ESM-China's annual Survey continues to provide a strong and credible barometer of the industry. Despite the challenging global economic environment, these distributors remain cautiously optimistic about the China market in 2013. This is in line with manufacturers' plans to increase the ratio of components purchased from distributors," said ESM-China Publisher, Brandon Smith .
Softening demand was the main challenge facing distributors in 2012 which they addressed by developing new application markets, expanding customer base as well as strengthening marketing activities.
The proportion of online transaction in 2012 was 11 percent for franchised distributors (2 percentage points higher than 2011), and 20 percent for independent distributors (unchanged from 2011).
China's most preferred components distributors revealed
The Survey also revealed the most preferred components distributors, as voted by managers of China's electronics manufacturers. Winners of each category (in alphabetical order) are:
Top 10 Most Preferred Local Franchised Distributors: Asiacom Technology, Burnon International, CEAC, Comtech Group, Fortune Techgroup, Honestar Electronics, Interine Electronics, Mornsun Electronics, Powertek Group and Shenzhen Sekorm Advanced Technologies.
Top 10 Most Preferred Overseas Franchised Distributors: Arrow Electronics, Avnet, Cytech Technology, Excelpoint Systems (HK), Future Electronics, HK Baite (Group), Jetronic Technology, Mouser Electronics, WPG Holdings and WT Microelectronics.
Top 5 Most Preferred Independent Distributors: Advanced MP, America II, Ample Solutions, Mogultech International and Pioneer Electronics.
Top 5 Most Promising Distributors: Hi-Hone, Sigma Technology, Skysoon Communication, Weltronics Component and Willas-Array Electronics.
Top 3 Rising Star Distributors: Infinitrue Technology, RightIC and Shenzhen Shenmei Technology.
Top 3 Best e-Commerce Distributors: Beijing Excellent Communication Technology, Lierda Science and Technology, and RS Components.
Top 3 Best Technical Support Distributors: DXY Technology, Fengbao Electronic and Guangzhou ZLG-MCU.
Top 3 Best Logistics Service Distributors: Majestic Trading Development, Mission Electronics and Vadas International.
Analyst's Choice -- Outstanding Executive of the Year: Charles Tan, Vice President of Future Electronics Asia Pac.
ANADIGICS announces GaN line amplifier for 1.2 GHz CATV systems
USA: ANADIGICS Inc. announced the introduction of the ACA2429 gallium nitride (GaN) power doubler surface mount IC supporting operation up to 1.2 GHz.
The company's GaN line amplifiers combine ANADIGICS' MESFET technology with a GaN output stage in a proven package to deliver exceptional performance and reliability in CATV infrastructure applications. With a world-class combination of high gain, output power, and linearity coupled with low current consumption and bit error rate (BER), ANADIGICS' GaN line amplifiers can be used as output power doublers for system amplifiers and deep fiber nodes.
This level of performance provides a power efficient "green" solution that saves energy and ensures distortion free video and audio in an advanced fully-loaded spectrum.
The company's GaN line amplifiers combine ANADIGICS' MESFET technology with a GaN output stage in a proven package to deliver exceptional performance and reliability in CATV infrastructure applications. With a world-class combination of high gain, output power, and linearity coupled with low current consumption and bit error rate (BER), ANADIGICS' GaN line amplifiers can be used as output power doublers for system amplifiers and deep fiber nodes.
This level of performance provides a power efficient "green" solution that saves energy and ensures distortion free video and audio in an advanced fully-loaded spectrum.
CimatronE live milling with Mitsubishi at Feimafe, Brazil
ISRAEL: Cimatron Ltd announced that its integrated CAD/CAM software, CimatronE, will be powering the Mitsubishi Machine Tools' live milling demonstration at the Feimafe trade show in São Paulo, Brazil, June 3-8, 2013.
"Cimatron is investing more than ever before in the Brazilian manufacturing field, assisting local mold and die makers in significantly boosting their productivity," said Alexandre Censi, Cimatron's country manager for Brazil.
"The five local resellers of our integrated CAD/CAM solution, CimatronE, offer an exceptionally high level of localized support to ensure that Brazilian mold and die shops benefit from the full range of CimatronE's dedicated mold and die design and NC programming capabilities. With offices across the main industrial regions, our resellers provide tailored training and technical support in line with shops' specific needs."
The live milling demonstration at Feimafe powered by CimatronE will be held at the booth of Mitsubishi Machine Tools (#J14). The parts to be milled with the DEV1000 and TV 500 machines include a blow mold for the base of a plastic soda bottle, employing a range of capabilities that enable the creation of an accurate, smooth toolpath, mirror-finish part quality, and the use of short tools for safe tooling with minimal vibration.
"Cimatron is investing more than ever before in the Brazilian manufacturing field, assisting local mold and die makers in significantly boosting their productivity," said Alexandre Censi, Cimatron's country manager for Brazil.
"The five local resellers of our integrated CAD/CAM solution, CimatronE, offer an exceptionally high level of localized support to ensure that Brazilian mold and die shops benefit from the full range of CimatronE's dedicated mold and die design and NC programming capabilities. With offices across the main industrial regions, our resellers provide tailored training and technical support in line with shops' specific needs."
The live milling demonstration at Feimafe powered by CimatronE will be held at the booth of Mitsubishi Machine Tools (#J14). The parts to be milled with the DEV1000 and TV 500 machines include a blow mold for the base of a plastic soda bottle, employing a range of capabilities that enable the creation of an accurate, smooth toolpath, mirror-finish part quality, and the use of short tools for safe tooling with minimal vibration.
TriQuint’s power doublers offer high output CATV infrastructure performance
ANGA Cable Show 2013, GERMANY & USA: TriQuint Semiconductor Inc. released its new gallium nitride (GaN) integrated power doubler with superior performance for fast-growing CATV infrastructure.
TriQuint’s new GaN MMIC amplifier offers high gain (24dB) and excellent composite distortion performance (CTB/CSO), which is a critical characteristic in multi-carrier CATV environments. TriQuint solutions for cable TV infrastructure and fiber to the premises (FTTP) systems will be displayed at ANGA COM, Europe’s premiere broadband trade fair in Cologne, Germany (June 4-6).
TriQuint has also released its new gallium arsenide (GaAs) power doubler that delivers the highest gain and output power among ‘green’ 12 Volt CATV amplifiers. The new amplifier provides RF output of +58dBmV/ch while consuming less than 8W, making it the highest output 12V GaAs solution in the CATV industry. Thanks to its low power consumption and gain, it can replace the equivalent of two legacy devices.
TriQuint’s new GaN MMIC amplifier offers high gain (24dB) and excellent composite distortion performance (CTB/CSO), which is a critical characteristic in multi-carrier CATV environments. TriQuint solutions for cable TV infrastructure and fiber to the premises (FTTP) systems will be displayed at ANGA COM, Europe’s premiere broadband trade fair in Cologne, Germany (June 4-6).
TriQuint has also released its new gallium arsenide (GaAs) power doubler that delivers the highest gain and output power among ‘green’ 12 Volt CATV amplifiers. The new amplifier provides RF output of +58dBmV/ch while consuming less than 8W, making it the highest output 12V GaAs solution in the CATV industry. Thanks to its low power consumption and gain, it can replace the equivalent of two legacy devices.
Mouser honored with Murata Americas’ president’s award
TAIWAN: Mouser Electronics Inc. has received Murata Americas’ President’s Award for Outstanding Contributions during 2012. Mouser has built a strong relationship with Murata, a worldwide leading innovator in research, design, manufacture and sale of ceramic based passive electronic components and devices.
Mouser earned the President’s Award for its Outstanding Contributions, including the successful marketing strategies that support the launch of Murata’s New Product Introductions. Mouser executives received the President’s Award at the Electronic Distribution Show (EDS), the electronic component industry’s premiere annual event, held recently in Las Vegas.
“We consider Murata one of our strategic partners, so we are honored to receive the President’s Award,” said Andy Kerr, Mouser VP of Passives. “Together with Murata, we are able to provide design engineers with the latest technology in ceramic passive components, MEMS devices, RF modules and power supplies. We look forward to continuously strengthening our partnership with Murata.”
"This award was presented to Mouser based on their outstanding contribution in ensuring Murata's newest innovations were made available to the design engineering community,” said Woody Wilder, director of Distribution Sales at Murata North America. "Mouser continues to deliver new, innovative ways of extending Murata's technology reach within the electronics market. We highly value the partnership with Mouser and appreciate the efforts put forth by the team."
Mouser earned the President’s Award for its Outstanding Contributions, including the successful marketing strategies that support the launch of Murata’s New Product Introductions. Mouser executives received the President’s Award at the Electronic Distribution Show (EDS), the electronic component industry’s premiere annual event, held recently in Las Vegas.
“We consider Murata one of our strategic partners, so we are honored to receive the President’s Award,” said Andy Kerr, Mouser VP of Passives. “Together with Murata, we are able to provide design engineers with the latest technology in ceramic passive components, MEMS devices, RF modules and power supplies. We look forward to continuously strengthening our partnership with Murata.”
"This award was presented to Mouser based on their outstanding contribution in ensuring Murata's newest innovations were made available to the design engineering community,” said Woody Wilder, director of Distribution Sales at Murata North America. "Mouser continues to deliver new, innovative ways of extending Murata's technology reach within the electronics market. We highly value the partnership with Mouser and appreciate the efforts put forth by the team."
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
ANADIGICS intros new family of 802.11ac WiFi power amplifiers
USA: ANADIGICS Inc. has introduced a new family of 802.11ac power amplifiers (PAs) optimized for WiFi infrastructure and multimedia applications, including access points, routers, media gateways, set-top boxes, and smart TVs.
These power amplifiers deliver an industry-leading combination of high gain, output power, and linearity to maximize data throughput and ensure reliable transmission of high definition (HD) video at extended ranges.
The company's new 802.11ac solutions also feature greater integration compared with a typical power amplifier, reducing external component requirements and saving valuable PCB space.
These power amplifiers deliver an industry-leading combination of high gain, output power, and linearity to maximize data throughput and ensure reliable transmission of high definition (HD) video at extended ranges.
The company's new 802.11ac solutions also feature greater integration compared with a typical power amplifier, reducing external component requirements and saving valuable PCB space.
OMRON develops world's first 16x16 element MEMS non-contact thermal sensor
JAPAN: OMRON Corp. has finished development work on the world's first infrared sensor manufactured with wafer-level vacuum packaging technology to create a 16x16 element MEMS non-contact infrared thermal sensor capable of highly precise 90-degree area detection. Shipping of test samples will commence in October 2013.
In recent years the demand for human presence sensors has been growing in tandem with the demand for energy-efficient "smart home" and "smart office" environments in which lighting, heating, etc. is automatically controlled according to where people are positioned.
Since conventional pyroelectric human presence sensors (motion sensors) are only able to detect people when they are in motion, they are not as suitable for detecting the number of people in a certain space or their relative positions as Omron's new thermal sensor.
MEMS non-contact thermal sensors measure temperature by converting infrared energy radiated from target objects into heat with MEMS thermopiles and then measuring the thermoelectromotive force resulting from temperature differences that occur across the contact points of two different types of metal. However, up till now it has not been possible to create large temperature differences across the metal contact points because much of the heat generated by the thermopiles dissipates into the surrounding air, meaning that the resulting thermoelectromotive force is reduced thereby limiting sensitivity.
Omron has solved this heat dissipation problem by vacuum sealing the thermopiles inside the chip – the first time this has been achieved. The reduction in heat dissipation leads to a greater temperature difference across the metal contacts thereby increasing sensitivity.
Omron will now also work on commercializing stand-alone human presence sensor modules by combining non-contact thermal sensors with algorithms that can accurately distinguish the number of people and their positions within a detected space.
In recent years the demand for human presence sensors has been growing in tandem with the demand for energy-efficient "smart home" and "smart office" environments in which lighting, heating, etc. is automatically controlled according to where people are positioned.
Since conventional pyroelectric human presence sensors (motion sensors) are only able to detect people when they are in motion, they are not as suitable for detecting the number of people in a certain space or their relative positions as Omron's new thermal sensor.
MEMS non-contact thermal sensors measure temperature by converting infrared energy radiated from target objects into heat with MEMS thermopiles and then measuring the thermoelectromotive force resulting from temperature differences that occur across the contact points of two different types of metal. However, up till now it has not been possible to create large temperature differences across the metal contact points because much of the heat generated by the thermopiles dissipates into the surrounding air, meaning that the resulting thermoelectromotive force is reduced thereby limiting sensitivity.
Omron has solved this heat dissipation problem by vacuum sealing the thermopiles inside the chip – the first time this has been achieved. The reduction in heat dissipation leads to a greater temperature difference across the metal contacts thereby increasing sensitivity.
Omron will now also work on commercializing stand-alone human presence sensor modules by combining non-contact thermal sensors with algorithms that can accurately distinguish the number of people and their positions within a detected space.
New crystals operating over extended -55 degrees C to +125 degrees C range available from Fox
USA: Fox Electronics, a leading global supplier of frequency control solutions, has enhanced its HC49 line of low-cost resistance weld crystals with two versions that maintain stability and tolerances across an extended temperature range of -55 degrees C to +125 degrees C.
The SMD HC49SDLF and thru-hole HC49SLF offer frequencies from 3.2 MHz to 80 MHz in the same compact 14 mm x 5 mm package with maximum heights of 4.5 mm and 3.6 mm, respectively.
The large temperature and frequency ranges, as well as the compact, robust housing make the new crystals ideal for a variety of harsh environments including mobile devices and exterior telecommunication installations.
Applications where the electronic systems are subjected to fluctuating weather conditions, and bandwidth requirements are high, find the combined attributes of the crystals especially useful for long-term, proper operation.
Both new crystals feature frequency tolerances as low as +/-10 ppm at 25 degrees C and frequency stabilities as tight as +/-90 ppm from -55 degrees C to +125 degrees C.
Aging is only +/-3 ppm per year and the drive level is 100 uW. The maximum shunt capacitance of the extended temperature crystals is 7 pF and the load capacitance is specified from 10 pF for parallel configurations. Pricing and delivery is dependent upon crystal specifications.
The SMD HC49SDLF and thru-hole HC49SLF offer frequencies from 3.2 MHz to 80 MHz in the same compact 14 mm x 5 mm package with maximum heights of 4.5 mm and 3.6 mm, respectively.
The large temperature and frequency ranges, as well as the compact, robust housing make the new crystals ideal for a variety of harsh environments including mobile devices and exterior telecommunication installations.
Applications where the electronic systems are subjected to fluctuating weather conditions, and bandwidth requirements are high, find the combined attributes of the crystals especially useful for long-term, proper operation.
Both new crystals feature frequency tolerances as low as +/-10 ppm at 25 degrees C and frequency stabilities as tight as +/-90 ppm from -55 degrees C to +125 degrees C.
Aging is only +/-3 ppm per year and the drive level is 100 uW. The maximum shunt capacitance of the extended temperature crystals is 7 pF and the load capacitance is specified from 10 pF for parallel configurations. Pricing and delivery is dependent upon crystal specifications.
ForceField signs LED sub-distributor agreement with Prime Energy Solutions
USA: ForceField Energy Inc. has signed a three-year sub-distribution agreement with Prime Energy Solutions AG, a Wiesbaden, Germany consultancy company focused on the energy sector, and received an order for the sale and installation of LED lighting products at two public schools in Germany.
Under the terms of the agreement, Prime has committed to purchase $15 million dollars of ForceField's Lightsky LED products during the first twelve months in order to maintain its exclusive distribution rights within Germany. The agreement is subject to reasonable annual performance measures and is subject to termination by either party. Prime will also have non-exclusive rights to distribute ForceField's LED products outside of Germany.
Upon execution of the agreement, Prime delivered a project for the installation of LED lighting products at two public schools located in Germany. The installation is scheduled to commence in the late second quarter of 2013. The overall scope of the project is anticipated to include up to 243 schools across Germany, pending the successful installation at the first two schools and needed approval by the various school districts. The complete project would require between eighteen and twenty-four months to complete.
Prime Energy Solutions will initially focus its marketing efforts on finalizing the project's commitment to include all 243 schools and their respective districts. In addition, they will target streetlights, public facilities and diverse commercial applications that could benefit from converting to LED lighting.
Under the terms of the agreement, Prime has committed to purchase $15 million dollars of ForceField's Lightsky LED products during the first twelve months in order to maintain its exclusive distribution rights within Germany. The agreement is subject to reasonable annual performance measures and is subject to termination by either party. Prime will also have non-exclusive rights to distribute ForceField's LED products outside of Germany.
Upon execution of the agreement, Prime delivered a project for the installation of LED lighting products at two public schools located in Germany. The installation is scheduled to commence in the late second quarter of 2013. The overall scope of the project is anticipated to include up to 243 schools across Germany, pending the successful installation at the first two schools and needed approval by the various school districts. The complete project would require between eighteen and twenty-four months to complete.
Prime Energy Solutions will initially focus its marketing efforts on finalizing the project's commitment to include all 243 schools and their respective districts. In addition, they will target streetlights, public facilities and diverse commercial applications that could benefit from converting to LED lighting.
Benefits and potential environmental/health impacts of Li-ion batteries for electric vehicles
USA: Lithium (Li-ion) batteries used to power plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles show overall promise to "fuel" these vehicles and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but there are areas for improvement to reduce possible environmental and public health impacts, according to a "cradle to grave" study of advanced Li-ion batteries recently completed by Abt Associates for the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
"While Li-ion batteries for electric vehicles are definitely a step in the right direction from traditional gasoline-fueled vehicles and nickel metal-hydride automotive batteries, some of the materials and methods used to manufacture them could be improved," said Jay Smith, an Abt senior analyst and co-lead of the life-cycle assessment.
Smith said, for example, the study showed that the batteries that use cathodes with nickel and cobalt, as well as solvent-based electrode processing, show the highest potential for certain environmental and human health impacts. The environmental impacts, Smith explained, include resource depletion, global warming, and ecological toxicity—primarily resulting from the production, processing and use of cobalt and nickel metal compounds, which can cause adverse respiratory, pulmonary and neurological effects in those exposed.
There are viable ways to reduce these impacts, he said, including cathode material substitution, solvent-less electrode processing and recycling of metals from the batteries.
The study, carried out through a partnership with EPA, the US Department of Energy, the Li-ion battery industry, and academicians, was the first life-cycle assessment to bring together and use data directly provided by Li-ion battery suppliers, manufacturers, and recyclers. Its purpose was to identify the materials or processes within a Li-ion battery's life cycle that most contribute to impacts on public health and the environment, so that battery manufacturers could use this information to improve the environmental profile of their products, while the technology is still emerging.
It also sought to evaluate the potential impacts of a nanotechnology innovation (i.e., a carbon nanotube anode) that could improve battery performance.
"While Li-ion batteries for electric vehicles are definitely a step in the right direction from traditional gasoline-fueled vehicles and nickel metal-hydride automotive batteries, some of the materials and methods used to manufacture them could be improved," said Jay Smith, an Abt senior analyst and co-lead of the life-cycle assessment.
Smith said, for example, the study showed that the batteries that use cathodes with nickel and cobalt, as well as solvent-based electrode processing, show the highest potential for certain environmental and human health impacts. The environmental impacts, Smith explained, include resource depletion, global warming, and ecological toxicity—primarily resulting from the production, processing and use of cobalt and nickel metal compounds, which can cause adverse respiratory, pulmonary and neurological effects in those exposed.
There are viable ways to reduce these impacts, he said, including cathode material substitution, solvent-less electrode processing and recycling of metals from the batteries.
The study, carried out through a partnership with EPA, the US Department of Energy, the Li-ion battery industry, and academicians, was the first life-cycle assessment to bring together and use data directly provided by Li-ion battery suppliers, manufacturers, and recyclers. Its purpose was to identify the materials or processes within a Li-ion battery's life cycle that most contribute to impacts on public health and the environment, so that battery manufacturers could use this information to improve the environmental profile of their products, while the technology is still emerging.
It also sought to evaluate the potential impacts of a nanotechnology innovation (i.e., a carbon nanotube anode) that could improve battery performance.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
AEG Power Solutions announces wireless controller for lighting market
FRANCE: As the lighting market moves towards more sophisticated control systems to reduce costs and impact on the environment, AEG Power Solutions has announced its ZCM-C range of controller modules based on wireless mesh networking.
These controllers can provide substantial energy savings by allowing light fixtures to supply only the amount of light actually required at any instant. They are capable of standalone operation without the need for a central controller, making them ideal for smaller installations such as parking lots, warehouses or campus lighting.
With these programmable controllers the user can set the light level by timeslots, and can link individual lights to motion sensors and light sensors as required for added flexibility. They can be used in indoor or outdoor applications where they can offer incremental savings of up to 70 percent or higher, further enhancing the attractiveness of an LED-based lighting solution. The same ZCM-C controller can also be used to retrofit existing lighting based on fluorescent, high intensity discharge or other legacy technologies.
Wireless mesh networking allows operation over a wide area while minimizing power consumption, and completely eliminates the need for control wiring which can otherwise be a barrier to upgrading existing installations.
The ZCM-C interfaces to the driver or lighting ballast via an industry-standard 0-10V dimming signal, and includes a switched output to allow full control of the AC power to the light fixture. The modules are self-powered from wide range AC input and provide a low voltage auxiliary output for use with motion sensors, light sensors or other equipment.
These controllers can provide substantial energy savings by allowing light fixtures to supply only the amount of light actually required at any instant. They are capable of standalone operation without the need for a central controller, making them ideal for smaller installations such as parking lots, warehouses or campus lighting.
With these programmable controllers the user can set the light level by timeslots, and can link individual lights to motion sensors and light sensors as required for added flexibility. They can be used in indoor or outdoor applications where they can offer incremental savings of up to 70 percent or higher, further enhancing the attractiveness of an LED-based lighting solution. The same ZCM-C controller can also be used to retrofit existing lighting based on fluorescent, high intensity discharge or other legacy technologies.
Wireless mesh networking allows operation over a wide area while minimizing power consumption, and completely eliminates the need for control wiring which can otherwise be a barrier to upgrading existing installations.
The ZCM-C interfaces to the driver or lighting ballast via an industry-standard 0-10V dimming signal, and includes a switched output to allow full control of the AC power to the light fixture. The modules are self-powered from wide range AC input and provide a low voltage auxiliary output for use with motion sensors, light sensors or other equipment.
Avnet Electronics Marketing releases production-grade ZedBoard
USA: Avnet Electronics Marketing is now shipping the production-grade ZedBoard, the industry’s first development kit to offer production silicon of the Xilinx Inc. Zynq-7000 All Programmable (AP) SoC.
“With full production Zynq-7000 AP SoC silicon, design teams using ZedBoard for exploration and prototyping can be assured that they are getting the most accurate results possible,” said Jim Beneke, VP of global technical marketing for Avnet Electronics Marketing. “Our market has embraced ZedBoard for early design exploration; we look forward to providing our customers with full production silicon quality in our newest version.”
The production-grade ZedBoard offers more than 50 improvements over the original CES – or Commercial temp range, Engineering Sample – grade development kit, including: secure boot, faster SD card boot-up, system clock reset improvements, DDR functional updates, more accurate static power estimates, eliminating single and double bit errors, and a more reliable Ethernet TxDMA.
“With full production Zynq-7000 AP SoC silicon, design teams using ZedBoard for exploration and prototyping can be assured that they are getting the most accurate results possible,” said Jim Beneke, VP of global technical marketing for Avnet Electronics Marketing. “Our market has embraced ZedBoard for early design exploration; we look forward to providing our customers with full production silicon quality in our newest version.”
The production-grade ZedBoard offers more than 50 improvements over the original CES – or Commercial temp range, Engineering Sample – grade development kit, including: secure boot, faster SD card boot-up, system clock reset improvements, DDR functional updates, more accurate static power estimates, eliminating single and double bit errors, and a more reliable Ethernet TxDMA.
Power management IC from ams helps reduce thermal stress on processors in phones and tablets
AUSTRIA: ams AG, a leading provider of high performance analog ICs and sensors, introduced the AS3721, a power management IC (PMIC) with an innovative remote-feedback circuit that helps reduce the thermal stress of applications processors in smartphones and tablets.
When paired with new AS3729 point-of-load regulators from ams, the highly-integrated AS3721 provides a complete power management system that offers a fast response to load transients for reliable processor performance, high efficiency, and flexible board layout.
The AS3721 and AS3729 are optimized for use with Tegra applications processors from Nvidia.
The AS3721 PMIC enables a compact remote feedback path from the processor to the IC’s integrated DC-DC controllers. Thanks to a patent-pending design innovation by ams, the feedback interface to the AS3721 only requires two wires (one control signal, one temperature signal) instead of the four or five wires typically required by other PMICs.
With fewer traces connecting the PMIC to the point-of-load power stages, the two devices can be placed far apart in the board layouts of space-constrained devices such as smartphones, tablets and notebooks. This dramatically reduces the size and intensity of the hotspot around the processor compared to conventional power architectures in which the processor and PMIC, both handling high currents simultaneously, must be located side-by-side.
The feedback loop carried over the AS3721’s two-wire interface also operates extremely fast, maintaining the processor it supports within its safe operating voltage even when supplying extremely fast-changing loads. Using an output capacitor of just 40µF and at an output voltage of 1.0V, the system’s voltage drop during a step up from 0.5A to 5A in burst mode is just 32mV (typical).
When paired with new AS3729 point-of-load regulators from ams, the highly-integrated AS3721 provides a complete power management system that offers a fast response to load transients for reliable processor performance, high efficiency, and flexible board layout.
The AS3721 and AS3729 are optimized for use with Tegra applications processors from Nvidia.
The AS3721 PMIC enables a compact remote feedback path from the processor to the IC’s integrated DC-DC controllers. Thanks to a patent-pending design innovation by ams, the feedback interface to the AS3721 only requires two wires (one control signal, one temperature signal) instead of the four or five wires typically required by other PMICs.
With fewer traces connecting the PMIC to the point-of-load power stages, the two devices can be placed far apart in the board layouts of space-constrained devices such as smartphones, tablets and notebooks. This dramatically reduces the size and intensity of the hotspot around the processor compared to conventional power architectures in which the processor and PMIC, both handling high currents simultaneously, must be located side-by-side.
The feedback loop carried over the AS3721’s two-wire interface also operates extremely fast, maintaining the processor it supports within its safe operating voltage even when supplying extremely fast-changing loads. Using an output capacitor of just 40µF and at an output voltage of 1.0V, the system’s voltage drop during a step up from 0.5A to 5A in burst mode is just 32mV (typical).
TI delivers industry's highest voltage rating in next-gen automotive LED drivers for dashboard apps
USA: Texas Instruments Inc. (TI) introduced the next-generation AEC-Q100 qualified automotive LED drivers, feature-packed with the industry's highest voltage rating, thermal shutdown protection and optimized electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) performance.
In harsh automotive environments, the electronics must endure high temperatures, high voltage transient and electromagnetic interference. It is crucial for the devices to survive such conditions while reducing electromagnetic emissions.
The TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1 are monolithic, medium-voltage, low-current 8-bit/12-bit shift registers designed for use in systems that require relatively moderate load power, such as LEDs. The TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1 are designed for automotive dashboard applications, including tell-tale warning lamps, instrumentation cluster, and LED illumination and control.
Key features and benefits of the TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1:
Highest voltage rating: The TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1 have the highest rating of up to 40V on all outputs. This allows the TLC6C598-Q1 to power up to eight strings of LEDs and the TLC6C5912-Q1 to power up to twelve strings of LEDs directly connected to the automotive battery.
Thermal shutdown protection: The TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1 offer self-protection against power dissipation, which results in better long-term reliability when low- and high-temperature demands are placed on the device.
Optimized EMC performance: The TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1 have controlled and optimized rise and fall time for the outputs, reducing the electromagnetic emissions.
In harsh automotive environments, the electronics must endure high temperatures, high voltage transient and electromagnetic interference. It is crucial for the devices to survive such conditions while reducing electromagnetic emissions.
The TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1 are monolithic, medium-voltage, low-current 8-bit/12-bit shift registers designed for use in systems that require relatively moderate load power, such as LEDs. The TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1 are designed for automotive dashboard applications, including tell-tale warning lamps, instrumentation cluster, and LED illumination and control.
Key features and benefits of the TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1:
Highest voltage rating: The TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1 have the highest rating of up to 40V on all outputs. This allows the TLC6C598-Q1 to power up to eight strings of LEDs and the TLC6C5912-Q1 to power up to twelve strings of LEDs directly connected to the automotive battery.
Thermal shutdown protection: The TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1 offer self-protection against power dissipation, which results in better long-term reliability when low- and high-temperature demands are placed on the device.
Optimized EMC performance: The TLC6C598-Q1 and TLC6C5912-Q1 have controlled and optimized rise and fall time for the outputs, reducing the electromagnetic emissions.
TREK intros high-speed high-voltage power amplifier
USA: TREK Inc., a designer and manufacturer of high-voltage power amplifiers and high-performance electrostatic instrumentation, will introduce a new high-speed, high-voltage amplifier – Model 10/40A-HS – at the IEEE Pulsed Power & Plasma Science Conference (PPPS 2013) being held June 17-19 in San Francisco, CA.
This new +/-10 kV four-quadrant DC-stable amplifier provides high speed of response with slew rate greater than 900 V/us, high output current to +/-120 mA peak AC, and large signal bandwidth of DC to greater than 23 kHz (-3dB).
Applications include electrostatic deflection (ion beam steering, mass spectrometers, particle accelerators), material characterization (ferroelectrics), plasma (atmospheric plasma, dielectric barrier discharge) and surface modification (for enhanced adhesion, biocompatibility, performance).
Additional applications include AC or DC biasing, delta tan testing, dielectrics testing, electroactive polymers (EAP), electrocoalescence, electrophoresis, electrorheological fluids, electro-optic modulation, electrospinning, fusion research, high power semiconductor testing, insulation breakdown testing, material poling and quadra-pole ion trap.
This new amplifier will enable technological advancement in many industries including aerospace, automotive, biotechnology, defense, electronics, energy, instrumentation, laboratory, military, power, semiconductors, and telecommunications.
Model 10/40A-HS features an all-solid-state design to deliver high slew rate, wide bandwidth and low-noise operation. This amplifier provides precise control of output voltages in the range of 0 to +/-10 kV DC or peak AC with an output current range of 0 to +/-40 mA DC or +/-120 mA peak AC for 1 ms. It is configured as a non-inverting amplifier with a fixed gain of 1000 V/V.
The four-quadrant, active output stage sinks or sources current into reactive or resistive loads throughout the output voltage range. This is essential for achieving the accurate output response and high slew rates demanded by reactive loads. Model 10/40A-HS is protected against over-voltage and over-current conditions that may be generated by active loads or by output short circuits to ground.
Precision voltage and current monitors provide low-voltage representations of the high-voltage output and load current for monitoring purposes or for use as feedback signals in a closed loop system.
The remote high-voltage on/off feature provides a connection for a remote device to turn on/off the high-voltage output, making Model 10/40A-HS suitable for automated or computer-controlled systems. It is CE compliant.
This new +/-10 kV four-quadrant DC-stable amplifier provides high speed of response with slew rate greater than 900 V/us, high output current to +/-120 mA peak AC, and large signal bandwidth of DC to greater than 23 kHz (-3dB).
Applications include electrostatic deflection (ion beam steering, mass spectrometers, particle accelerators), material characterization (ferroelectrics), plasma (atmospheric plasma, dielectric barrier discharge) and surface modification (for enhanced adhesion, biocompatibility, performance).
Additional applications include AC or DC biasing, delta tan testing, dielectrics testing, electroactive polymers (EAP), electrocoalescence, electrophoresis, electrorheological fluids, electro-optic modulation, electrospinning, fusion research, high power semiconductor testing, insulation breakdown testing, material poling and quadra-pole ion trap.
This new amplifier will enable technological advancement in many industries including aerospace, automotive, biotechnology, defense, electronics, energy, instrumentation, laboratory, military, power, semiconductors, and telecommunications.
Model 10/40A-HS features an all-solid-state design to deliver high slew rate, wide bandwidth and low-noise operation. This amplifier provides precise control of output voltages in the range of 0 to +/-10 kV DC or peak AC with an output current range of 0 to +/-40 mA DC or +/-120 mA peak AC for 1 ms. It is configured as a non-inverting amplifier with a fixed gain of 1000 V/V.
The four-quadrant, active output stage sinks or sources current into reactive or resistive loads throughout the output voltage range. This is essential for achieving the accurate output response and high slew rates demanded by reactive loads. Model 10/40A-HS is protected against over-voltage and over-current conditions that may be generated by active loads or by output short circuits to ground.
Precision voltage and current monitors provide low-voltage representations of the high-voltage output and load current for monitoring purposes or for use as feedback signals in a closed loop system.
The remote high-voltage on/off feature provides a connection for a remote device to turn on/off the high-voltage output, making Model 10/40A-HS suitable for automated or computer-controlled systems. It is CE compliant.
KEMET names Mouser high service distributor of the year
TAIWAN: Mouser Electronics Inc. has won High Service Distributor of the Year from KEMET.
The prestigious award was presented to Mouser during the Electronic Distribution Show in Las Vegas.
KEMET also presented TTI with the Distributor of the Year Award for 2013 making it a CLEAN SWEEP for the TTI/Mouser Team. Also announced at the show, KEMET is honoring Jim Bruorton by naming the Distributor of the Year Award the “Jim Bruorton Distributor of the Year Award” for his many years of service and his many contributions.
“We are very grateful to receive this award from our friends at KEMET, and Mouser would like to congratulate TTI on being the first to receive the Jim Bruorton Distributor of the Year Award,” states Andy Kerr, VP of Passives at Mouser Electronics.
“Design engineers rely on Mouser to provide the newest innovative products from KEMET, as well as the highest level of customer service through concise product data, immediate product availability, local customer service, and timely, global delivery. KEMET has provided us with a large selection of capacitors which are used by today’s top design engineers. We value this partnership and look forward to its continuation.”
The prestigious award was presented to Mouser during the Electronic Distribution Show in Las Vegas.
KEMET also presented TTI with the Distributor of the Year Award for 2013 making it a CLEAN SWEEP for the TTI/Mouser Team. Also announced at the show, KEMET is honoring Jim Bruorton by naming the Distributor of the Year Award the “Jim Bruorton Distributor of the Year Award” for his many years of service and his many contributions.
“We are very grateful to receive this award from our friends at KEMET, and Mouser would like to congratulate TTI on being the first to receive the Jim Bruorton Distributor of the Year Award,” states Andy Kerr, VP of Passives at Mouser Electronics.
“Design engineers rely on Mouser to provide the newest innovative products from KEMET, as well as the highest level of customer service through concise product data, immediate product availability, local customer service, and timely, global delivery. KEMET has provided us with a large selection of capacitors which are used by today’s top design engineers. We value this partnership and look forward to its continuation.”
Larson releases LED spotlight with green output and pistol grip design
USA: Larson Electronics has announced the release of a rugged and versatile new LED spotlight designed to provide powerful green light output combined with rugged construction and dimming capability.
The HL-85-3W1-GREEN-D Green LED Handheld Spotlight produces an intense beam of green light reaching over 500 feet in length and can be dimmed as desired simply by turning a dial, making this an ideal spotlight solution for operators in the military and law enforcement fields as well as hunters and sportsmen.
The HL-85-3W1-GREEN-D LED handheld spotlight from Larson Electronics is a powerful LED spotlight that allows operators to control its intense light output levels while providing extremely rugged and reliable operations. This professional grade LED spotlight is designed to give users in the military, law enforcement, security, and hunting fields a rugged and dependable source of green illumination in an easy to operate and service design.
The HL-85-3W1-GREEN-D features a powerful 3 watt LED emitter that has been paired with high efficiency optics for maximum output and efficiency. The LED in this spotlight has a 120,000 hour service life and produces green light natively, meaning there is no filter or colored lens to reduce output or distort the beam. The UV and weather resistant housing is constructed of impact resistant nylon, and the lamp assembly is fully potted and machined from a single piece of high grade aluminum, giving this high power spotlight excellent durability even under abusive conditions.
There are no tools needed to service this unit, and the internal connectors can be accessed through a simple snap cover, making this light extremely easy to service even in the field. The entire unit weighs only 14 ounces, making it easy to carry and operate with one hand, and the pistol grip design and non slip grip surface ensures secure handling even in wet conditions. This LED spotlight operates on 12 or 24 volt DC current and includes a 16 foot coil cord with inline dimmer switch ending in a standard cigarette lighter plug.
The HL-85-3W1-GREEN-D Green LED Handheld Spotlight produces an intense beam of green light reaching over 500 feet in length and can be dimmed as desired simply by turning a dial, making this an ideal spotlight solution for operators in the military and law enforcement fields as well as hunters and sportsmen.
The HL-85-3W1-GREEN-D LED handheld spotlight from Larson Electronics is a powerful LED spotlight that allows operators to control its intense light output levels while providing extremely rugged and reliable operations. This professional grade LED spotlight is designed to give users in the military, law enforcement, security, and hunting fields a rugged and dependable source of green illumination in an easy to operate and service design.
The HL-85-3W1-GREEN-D features a powerful 3 watt LED emitter that has been paired with high efficiency optics for maximum output and efficiency. The LED in this spotlight has a 120,000 hour service life and produces green light natively, meaning there is no filter or colored lens to reduce output or distort the beam. The UV and weather resistant housing is constructed of impact resistant nylon, and the lamp assembly is fully potted and machined from a single piece of high grade aluminum, giving this high power spotlight excellent durability even under abusive conditions.
There are no tools needed to service this unit, and the internal connectors can be accessed through a simple snap cover, making this light extremely easy to service even in the field. The entire unit weighs only 14 ounces, making it easy to carry and operate with one hand, and the pistol grip design and non slip grip surface ensures secure handling even in wet conditions. This LED spotlight operates on 12 or 24 volt DC current and includes a 16 foot coil cord with inline dimmer switch ending in a standard cigarette lighter plug.
Monday, May 27, 2013
Mouser, Kanaan celebrate 2013 Indy 500 victory
USA: Mouser Electronics Inc. has congratulated Tony Kanaan, driver of the #11 IndyCar, for a history-making victory at the legendary Indianapolis 500.
The 12th time was the charm for Kanaan, who had earned second place at the Indy 500 in 2004 and third place finishes in 2012 and 2003. Kanaan now goes into the history books as one of the greatest and most popular drivers with a first-place victory in the Indy 500, the granddaddy of American car racing.
Mouser first sponsored IndyCar in 2011 as an innovative way to communicate its performance-driven business model and promote the newest technologies and how they affect the high-tech world of IndyCar racing. Since every advanced, sophisticated component that goes into an IndyCar is all about precision and gaining a performance edge out on the track, IndyCar provides the perfect vehicle to build top-of-mind awareness for Mouser and its industry-leading manufacturers.
Joining Mouser as this year’s valued sponsors are TTI, Sager, Amphenol, BIVAR, ebm-pabst, Fluke, Hammond Manufacturing, Harwin, LEMO, Molex, Murata, NKK Switches, Ohmite, and Phoenix Contact.
The 12th time was the charm for Kanaan, who had earned second place at the Indy 500 in 2004 and third place finishes in 2012 and 2003. Kanaan now goes into the history books as one of the greatest and most popular drivers with a first-place victory in the Indy 500, the granddaddy of American car racing.
Mouser first sponsored IndyCar in 2011 as an innovative way to communicate its performance-driven business model and promote the newest technologies and how they affect the high-tech world of IndyCar racing. Since every advanced, sophisticated component that goes into an IndyCar is all about precision and gaining a performance edge out on the track, IndyCar provides the perfect vehicle to build top-of-mind awareness for Mouser and its industry-leading manufacturers.
Joining Mouser as this year’s valued sponsors are TTI, Sager, Amphenol, BIVAR, ebm-pabst, Fluke, Hammond Manufacturing, Harwin, LEMO, Molex, Murata, NKK Switches, Ohmite, and Phoenix Contact.
Korean Fair Trade Commission approves ASML acquisition of Cymer
SOUTH KOREA: ASML Holding NV (ASML) and Cymer Inc. have announced that the Korean Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) has approved the previously announced merger between Cymer and affiliates of ASML.
As a result, all conditions to closing the transaction, except for those conditions that can be satisfied only at the closing, have been fulfilled. The parties expect to close the transaction end of May – early June 2013.
As already indicated in the deal announcement of 17 October 2012, ASML will manage Cymer as an independent business unit where it concerns commercial hardware sales and services activities, and Cymer will continue to supply sources to and engage in R&D activities with all lithography tool manufacturers on fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory commercial terms.
ASML will continue to let its scanner customers choose their preferred light source, and its scanners will continue to interface with light sources from all manufacturers.
As a result, all conditions to closing the transaction, except for those conditions that can be satisfied only at the closing, have been fulfilled. The parties expect to close the transaction end of May – early June 2013.
As already indicated in the deal announcement of 17 October 2012, ASML will manage Cymer as an independent business unit where it concerns commercial hardware sales and services activities, and Cymer will continue to supply sources to and engage in R&D activities with all lithography tool manufacturers on fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory commercial terms.
ASML will continue to let its scanner customers choose their preferred light source, and its scanners will continue to interface with light sources from all manufacturers.
Friday, May 24, 2013
MACOM extends leadership in diodes
USA: M/A-COM Technology Solutions Inc. (MACOM), a leading supplier of high performance analog semiconductor solutions, has extended its strong industry position in diodes with a new family of broadband Shunt PIN Diodes for high-power switching applications.
The MACOM Shunt PIN Diode series is designed for customers who need a versatile, low cost, ultra-small Shunt PIN diode element for land mobile radio, wireless infrastructure and test instrument applications. Unlike the competition, MACOM’s small, 1.5 X 1.2 mm plastic package reduces board space while enabling broadband performance comparable to chip-scale devices.
Typical applications include high-power switching through 6GHz with incident power up to 100W. Boasting excellent performance, low cost and easy implementation, the Shunt PIN Diode series offers a winning combination for customers looking for high-power diode solutions.
“This family of Shunt PIN Diodes offers an excellent combination of broadband performance, ease of use and low cost,” said Paul Wade, Product manager. “These devices are ideal for customers looking for cost and space savings to implement into their solutions.”
The 3-terminal, low-pass filter structure inherent in MACOM’s devices provides superior low- and high signal performance compared to 2-terminal PIN diode devices, making the Shunt PIN Diodes ideal for high-power switching applications through 12 GHz with incident power up to 100W.
The MACOM Shunt PIN Diode series is designed for customers who need a versatile, low cost, ultra-small Shunt PIN diode element for land mobile radio, wireless infrastructure and test instrument applications. Unlike the competition, MACOM’s small, 1.5 X 1.2 mm plastic package reduces board space while enabling broadband performance comparable to chip-scale devices.
Typical applications include high-power switching through 6GHz with incident power up to 100W. Boasting excellent performance, low cost and easy implementation, the Shunt PIN Diode series offers a winning combination for customers looking for high-power diode solutions.
“This family of Shunt PIN Diodes offers an excellent combination of broadband performance, ease of use and low cost,” said Paul Wade, Product manager. “These devices are ideal for customers looking for cost and space savings to implement into their solutions.”
The 3-terminal, low-pass filter structure inherent in MACOM’s devices provides superior low- and high signal performance compared to 2-terminal PIN diode devices, making the Shunt PIN Diodes ideal for high-power switching applications through 12 GHz with incident power up to 100W.
Panasonic develops world's highest efficiency white OLED for lighting
JAPAN: Panasonic Corp. has developed a white Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) with the world's highest luminous efficiency*1 of 114 lm/W (light-emitting area of 1 cm²).
In addition, a luminous efficiency of 110 lm/W has also been achieved with a device with a larger emitting area of 25 cm². In order to achieve such a level of high efficiency with the OLED, the company focused on "light extraction technology" and the "all phosphorescent white OLED technology" (technology for the multilayering of the organic emitting layer).
OLEDs are capable of emitting any color including white when a voltage is applied by combining organic materials that emit various colors such as red, green, and blue. The soft surface luminescence makes OLEDs suitable for lighting a wide area, and along with the benefits of being not overly bright when viewed directly and a thin and lightweight structure, they are receiving attention as the next generation light source.
Lighting devices equipped with the high efficiency OLEDs are considered to achieve a luminous efficiency comparable to or higher than that of fluorescent lamps (approx. 60-80 lm/W) or LED lighting fixtures (approx. 80 lm/W) currently available in the market. Further, a wide variety of applications are expected for OLED devices, including use in general lighting. White OLED lighting will create new value in people's daily lives and has great potential for realizing a comfortable and ecological lifestyle.
In addition, a luminous efficiency of 110 lm/W has also been achieved with a device with a larger emitting area of 25 cm². In order to achieve such a level of high efficiency with the OLED, the company focused on "light extraction technology" and the "all phosphorescent white OLED technology" (technology for the multilayering of the organic emitting layer).
OLEDs are capable of emitting any color including white when a voltage is applied by combining organic materials that emit various colors such as red, green, and blue. The soft surface luminescence makes OLEDs suitable for lighting a wide area, and along with the benefits of being not overly bright when viewed directly and a thin and lightweight structure, they are receiving attention as the next generation light source.
Lighting devices equipped with the high efficiency OLEDs are considered to achieve a luminous efficiency comparable to or higher than that of fluorescent lamps (approx. 60-80 lm/W) or LED lighting fixtures (approx. 80 lm/W) currently available in the market. Further, a wide variety of applications are expected for OLED devices, including use in general lighting. White OLED lighting will create new value in people's daily lives and has great potential for realizing a comfortable and ecological lifestyle.
Panacis launches Energy Sharepack product
CANADA: Panacis Inc. has launched a revolutionary new product called the Energy SharePack, which provides a complete power solution for the dismounted warfighter in a single, smart lithium ion device using universal, bi-directional power ports.
"For all militaries, reducing the burden on the dismounted warfighter and providing sufficient energy to power all the warfighter's devices are top priorities for fighting effectiveness, ergonomics, and logistics reasons," said Steve Carkner, inventor, founder, and CTO of Panacis. "SharePack is Panacis' solution to addressing all these elements."
SharePack provides flexible energy storage, power management, and energy harvesting in a multi-port, 2 lb package that can easily be adapted to a wide range of mission scenarios:
Store - it stores energy internally as a rechargeable battery.
Deliver - it powers one or more devices at the same time.
Harvest - it charges directly from many sources without the need for an intermediary device.
Share - it combines energy automatically with other SharePacks to increase capacity and power output.
SharePack's multi-function capability improves "efficiency of energy use", which means that the individual warfighter and the squad can carry less spares and use less cabling. Recharging can be performed directly from energy sources in the immediate environment, e.g. solar blankets, military vehicle power, DC generators, and even from partially used batteries that would normally be discarded.
"For all militaries, reducing the burden on the dismounted warfighter and providing sufficient energy to power all the warfighter's devices are top priorities for fighting effectiveness, ergonomics, and logistics reasons," said Steve Carkner, inventor, founder, and CTO of Panacis. "SharePack is Panacis' solution to addressing all these elements."
SharePack provides flexible energy storage, power management, and energy harvesting in a multi-port, 2 lb package that can easily be adapted to a wide range of mission scenarios:
Store - it stores energy internally as a rechargeable battery.
Deliver - it powers one or more devices at the same time.
Harvest - it charges directly from many sources without the need for an intermediary device.
Share - it combines energy automatically with other SharePacks to increase capacity and power output.
SharePack's multi-function capability improves "efficiency of energy use", which means that the individual warfighter and the squad can carry less spares and use less cabling. Recharging can be performed directly from energy sources in the immediate environment, e.g. solar blankets, military vehicle power, DC generators, and even from partially used batteries that would normally be discarded.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Pasternack adds all new line of RF coaxial test cables
USA: Pasternack Enterprises Inc., an industry leading ISO 9001:2008 certified manufacturer and global supplier of RF and microwave products, has added a new line of SMA and N-Type Test Cables, ideal for testing applications requiring low insertion loss and operating frequencies up to 26.5 GHz.
Pasternack Enterprises' new RF test cables are specifically designed for environments requiring highly durable test cables, but where expensive ultra-stable cables are not required. New coaxial test cables from Pasternack are available in both in-series and between-series configurations.
These cables use male versions of SMA (26.5 GHz) and N (18 GHz) connectors, and Pasternack's own PE-P141 type coax, a flexible version of 141 semi-rigid coax. Each test cable is constructed with extremely durable, machined, stainless steel connectors and come standard with a double-shielded coax and FEP jacket.
Pasternack's new SMA and N test cables are used for many applications including prototyping in test labs, production line testing, and antenna range testing. These rugged RF cables are a cost effective solution for various types of production testing, eliminating the need to buy more expensive versions.
Testing cables from Pasternack are available in standard lengths from 12 to 120 inches and can be ordered in 12-inch increments. Metric lengths can be ordered for each series in 100, 150 and 200 centimeter (cm) lengths.
Pasternack Enterprises' new RF test cables are specifically designed for environments requiring highly durable test cables, but where expensive ultra-stable cables are not required. New coaxial test cables from Pasternack are available in both in-series and between-series configurations.
These cables use male versions of SMA (26.5 GHz) and N (18 GHz) connectors, and Pasternack's own PE-P141 type coax, a flexible version of 141 semi-rigid coax. Each test cable is constructed with extremely durable, machined, stainless steel connectors and come standard with a double-shielded coax and FEP jacket.
Pasternack's new SMA and N test cables are used for many applications including prototyping in test labs, production line testing, and antenna range testing. These rugged RF cables are a cost effective solution for various types of production testing, eliminating the need to buy more expensive versions.
Testing cables from Pasternack are available in standard lengths from 12 to 120 inches and can be ordered in 12-inch increments. Metric lengths can be ordered for each series in 100, 150 and 200 centimeter (cm) lengths.
Toshiba intros low RDS(ON) P-ch MOSFETs for mobile devices
USA: Toshiba America Electronic Components Inc. (TAEC), a committed leader that collaborates with technology companies to create breakthrough designs, has announced the addition of three new high current P-ch MOSFETs: the SSM6J505NU, SSM6J501NU and SSM6J503NU.
Supporting high currents for high power dissipation packages, the new MOSFETs make ideal charging switches for smartphones and other mobile devices with high current charging circuits.
As the battery capacity of smartphones and other mobile devices increases, the charging current increases as well. Toshiba used the latest UMOS VI process to design the SSM6J505NU, SSM6J501NU and SSM6J503NU in a small 2.0mm × 2.0mm × 0.75mm (UDFN6B) package that achieves low ON-resistance and allows large currents.
Toshiba's new low RDS(ON) MOSFETs are available now. Budgetary pricing begins at $0.13 for sampling quantities.
Supporting high currents for high power dissipation packages, the new MOSFETs make ideal charging switches for smartphones and other mobile devices with high current charging circuits.
As the battery capacity of smartphones and other mobile devices increases, the charging current increases as well. Toshiba used the latest UMOS VI process to design the SSM6J505NU, SSM6J501NU and SSM6J503NU in a small 2.0mm × 2.0mm × 0.75mm (UDFN6B) package that achieves low ON-resistance and allows large currents.
Toshiba's new low RDS(ON) MOSFETs are available now. Budgetary pricing begins at $0.13 for sampling quantities.
Falling commodity prices give buyers using cost analysis upper hand in supplier negotiations
USA: The headlines often trumpet news about declining commodity prices. So why don’t these reductions ever seem to result in price reductions from suppliers?
Suppliers will never volunteer to lower their prices, of course. Because of that, the only way for purchasers to parlay falling raw-materials expenses into real cost savings is to arm themselves with critical knowledge that can give them an edge in price negotiations.
Speaking at a recent webcast event, entitled “Improve your Negotiating Position & Achieve Cost Savings with Supplier Cost Insight,” Paul Robinson, senior economist, IHS Pricing & Purchasing, demonstrated how a little knowledge about commodity and raw-material pricing can go a long way when haggling with suppliers.
“Tremendous commodity price volatility has generated additional need for reliable and timely pricing information,” Robinson observed. “By employing the right tools and knowledge, companies typically achieve 1-1.5 percent savings on their total material spend – a figure that can translate to big savings for most manufacturers.”
As an example, Robinson presented a case study of a major power generation company that was facing another 5 percent annual price increase on its industrial valve purchases. The company employed the IHS Pricing and Purchasing Service Purchasing Analyzer to break down the cost structure of the industrial valve. The Analyzer gave a complete itemization of the cost, including labor and all types of direct materials, as presented in the attached table.
“The analyzer allows purchasers to identify the key elements of price, and then pick some of the largest-cost segments as areas for price negotiation,” Robinson said.
One of the primary material cost elements of the industrial valves is the iron foundry work, which accounted for a major portion of the total expense, at 10.2 percent. A further analysis using a forecast from the IHS Pricing and Purchasing Service revealed that cost increases for iron foundries are expected to slow to a 2.7 percent compound annual growth rate from 2012 through 2015, down from 5.4 percent from 2005 through 2011.
“This reduction in cost increases represented a kink in the forecast—a kink that presented an opportunity for the buyer to negotiate a lower price,” Robinson said.
A more comprehensive analysis of the total industrial valve showed that the total cost increase for all components should amount to just 0.4 percent in 2013—the lowest rate of increase since the recessionary year of 2009.
“This slowdown in price increases reflects the fact that iron ore supply is growing faster than iron ore demand,” Robinson observed. “Labor costs also are stagnant in many developed economies where highly engineered castings are made. This means the supplier is seeing lower costs, which can be the key negotiating point for the buyer. By leveraging this information, a buyer saving 3 percent on this purchase, amounts to saving $30,000 for $1 million in spend.”
Robinson presented a second case study that required a purchaser to engage in an even more detailed and sophisticated cost study to gain the advantage in price negotiations.
A major aerospace and defense company was buying a rare alloy—called 17-7 PH—known for its strength, hardness, formability and corrosion resistance. To understand the supplier’s expenses for making the alloy, the buyer commissioned a custom cost forecast using the IHS Pricing and Purchasing Service Alloy Cost Calculator. The Alloy Cost Calculator can break down the chemistry of an alloy, and determine the respective costs of each metal used.
Once the mix of metals in 17-7 PH was known, the purchaser utilized the Alloy Cost Calculator to forecast their respective costs. The Calculator revealed that prices for the 17-7 PH alloy fell 33 percent from the first quarter of 2011 to the fourth quarter of 2012. It also indicated that pricing should remain flat in the future.
“This particular aerospace company went on to employ the alloy cost forecast as means to objectively justify a contract price negotiation based upon credible market supply and demand factors, ultimately realizing a significant reduction in overall costs,” Robinson said.
Suppliers will never volunteer to lower their prices, of course. Because of that, the only way for purchasers to parlay falling raw-materials expenses into real cost savings is to arm themselves with critical knowledge that can give them an edge in price negotiations.
Speaking at a recent webcast event, entitled “Improve your Negotiating Position & Achieve Cost Savings with Supplier Cost Insight,” Paul Robinson, senior economist, IHS Pricing & Purchasing, demonstrated how a little knowledge about commodity and raw-material pricing can go a long way when haggling with suppliers.
“Tremendous commodity price volatility has generated additional need for reliable and timely pricing information,” Robinson observed. “By employing the right tools and knowledge, companies typically achieve 1-1.5 percent savings on their total material spend – a figure that can translate to big savings for most manufacturers.”
As an example, Robinson presented a case study of a major power generation company that was facing another 5 percent annual price increase on its industrial valve purchases. The company employed the IHS Pricing and Purchasing Service Purchasing Analyzer to break down the cost structure of the industrial valve. The Analyzer gave a complete itemization of the cost, including labor and all types of direct materials, as presented in the attached table.
“The analyzer allows purchasers to identify the key elements of price, and then pick some of the largest-cost segments as areas for price negotiation,” Robinson said.
One of the primary material cost elements of the industrial valves is the iron foundry work, which accounted for a major portion of the total expense, at 10.2 percent. A further analysis using a forecast from the IHS Pricing and Purchasing Service revealed that cost increases for iron foundries are expected to slow to a 2.7 percent compound annual growth rate from 2012 through 2015, down from 5.4 percent from 2005 through 2011.
“This reduction in cost increases represented a kink in the forecast—a kink that presented an opportunity for the buyer to negotiate a lower price,” Robinson said.
A more comprehensive analysis of the total industrial valve showed that the total cost increase for all components should amount to just 0.4 percent in 2013—the lowest rate of increase since the recessionary year of 2009.
“This slowdown in price increases reflects the fact that iron ore supply is growing faster than iron ore demand,” Robinson observed. “Labor costs also are stagnant in many developed economies where highly engineered castings are made. This means the supplier is seeing lower costs, which can be the key negotiating point for the buyer. By leveraging this information, a buyer saving 3 percent on this purchase, amounts to saving $30,000 for $1 million in spend.”
Robinson presented a second case study that required a purchaser to engage in an even more detailed and sophisticated cost study to gain the advantage in price negotiations.
A major aerospace and defense company was buying a rare alloy—called 17-7 PH—known for its strength, hardness, formability and corrosion resistance. To understand the supplier’s expenses for making the alloy, the buyer commissioned a custom cost forecast using the IHS Pricing and Purchasing Service Alloy Cost Calculator. The Alloy Cost Calculator can break down the chemistry of an alloy, and determine the respective costs of each metal used.
Once the mix of metals in 17-7 PH was known, the purchaser utilized the Alloy Cost Calculator to forecast their respective costs. The Calculator revealed that prices for the 17-7 PH alloy fell 33 percent from the first quarter of 2011 to the fourth quarter of 2012. It also indicated that pricing should remain flat in the future.
“This particular aerospace company went on to employ the alloy cost forecast as means to objectively justify a contract price negotiation based upon credible market supply and demand factors, ultimately realizing a significant reduction in overall costs,” Robinson said.
Soraa to ENERGY STAR: Light quality is critical to wider adoption of LED lighting
USA: To ensure the long-term success and widespread market adoption of LED lamps, Soraa late last week urged the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR program to address light quality, specifically color rendering, in its new lamp specification.
Support for higher color rendering has been expressed by the California Lighting Technology Center; Profs. Shuji Nakamura and Steven DenBaars; the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD); Northeast Utilities Companies (NSTAR); and lighting designer Chip Israel; who all filed formal comments on EPA’s Draft 3 product specification for LED lamps.
“Poor light quality ruined many consumers’ confidence in compact fluorescents,” said Mike Krames, CTO of Soraa. “The ENERGY STAR qualification must be associated with LED lamps that provide a better quality of light; otherwise, the program will start to lack credibility with end-users and the low adoption rate history of CFLs will be repeated by LED lamps.”
In comments filed with the EPA on May 17th, Soraa told EPA that while ENERGY STAR is not a mandatory standard; the Agency must recognize that it has become a de facto standard for utility rebate dollars critical to lowering the initial cost of LED products.
In absence of a second high color rendering index (CRI) tier, it is likely that, similar to the historical situation with CFLs, the vast majority of lamp products will be engineered to perform close to the lower boundaries of quality requirements as set in the ENERGY STAR lamp specification for cost reasons (see Figure). Left unaddressed, this lack of high color quality lighting products will lead to a stalling in consumer adoption of energy efficient lighting technology, similar to what has been observed to date with CFLs.
Support for higher color rendering has been expressed by the California Lighting Technology Center; Profs. Shuji Nakamura and Steven DenBaars; the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD); Northeast Utilities Companies (NSTAR); and lighting designer Chip Israel; who all filed formal comments on EPA’s Draft 3 product specification for LED lamps.
“Poor light quality ruined many consumers’ confidence in compact fluorescents,” said Mike Krames, CTO of Soraa. “The ENERGY STAR qualification must be associated with LED lamps that provide a better quality of light; otherwise, the program will start to lack credibility with end-users and the low adoption rate history of CFLs will be repeated by LED lamps.”
In comments filed with the EPA on May 17th, Soraa told EPA that while ENERGY STAR is not a mandatory standard; the Agency must recognize that it has become a de facto standard for utility rebate dollars critical to lowering the initial cost of LED products.
In absence of a second high color rendering index (CRI) tier, it is likely that, similar to the historical situation with CFLs, the vast majority of lamp products will be engineered to perform close to the lower boundaries of quality requirements as set in the ENERGY STAR lamp specification for cost reasons (see Figure). Left unaddressed, this lack of high color quality lighting products will lead to a stalling in consumer adoption of energy efficient lighting technology, similar to what has been observed to date with CFLs.
IR expands PowIRaudio family
USA: International Rectifier, (IR) announced the expansion of its PowIRaudio family with the introduction of the single channel IR4321M and dual channel IR4322M integrated power modules.
The 60V IR4321M and IR4322M complement the existing product offering and expand the power capability of low load-impedance Class D audio systems in applications including car audio systems, tabletop audio systems, active speakers and musical instruments (with integrated amplifiers).
The combination of an advanced audio controller IC with MOSFETs fully optimized for audio performance results in improved efficiency, THD, and EMI, allowing the IR432xM family to operate without a mechanical heatsink over a wide power supply range on either a single or split power supply. High voltage ratings and noise immunity ensure reliable operation over various environmental conditions.
The 60V IR4321M and IR4322M complement the existing product offering and expand the power capability of low load-impedance Class D audio systems in applications including car audio systems, tabletop audio systems, active speakers and musical instruments (with integrated amplifiers).
The combination of an advanced audio controller IC with MOSFETs fully optimized for audio performance results in improved efficiency, THD, and EMI, allowing the IR432xM family to operate without a mechanical heatsink over a wide power supply range on either a single or split power supply. High voltage ratings and noise immunity ensure reliable operation over various environmental conditions.
NLT intros series of display modules with built-In LED driver
Display Week 2013, USA: NLT Technologies Ltd (NLT), together with its sales and marketing channels in the Americas, Renesas Electronics America introduced a new Value Series of LCD products.
The new Series is equipped with white LED backlights and built-in LED drivers and are designed for higher volume industrial and commercial applications, such as Kiosk, POS and tablet like devices, with a tailored Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) that broadens NLT’s display solutions for the market.
The company will demonstrate the new Value Series displays, at the Society for Information Display’s (SID) Display Week 2013 taking place at the Vancouver Convention Center, in Vancouver, Canada (booth #301), May 21-23, 2013.
Demonstrations will include the following displays:
* 5-inch WVGA NLB050WV01C-01 with CMOS interface
* 7-inch WVGA NLB070WV01L-01 with LVDS interface
* 7-inch WVGA NLB070WV01C-01 with CMOS interface
* 12.1-inch SVGA NLB121SV01L-01 with LVDS interface
* 15-inch XGA NLB150XG01L-01 with LVDS interface.
The new Series is equipped with white LED backlights and built-in LED drivers and are designed for higher volume industrial and commercial applications, such as Kiosk, POS and tablet like devices, with a tailored Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) that broadens NLT’s display solutions for the market.
The company will demonstrate the new Value Series displays, at the Society for Information Display’s (SID) Display Week 2013 taking place at the Vancouver Convention Center, in Vancouver, Canada (booth #301), May 21-23, 2013.
Demonstrations will include the following displays:
* 5-inch WVGA NLB050WV01C-01 with CMOS interface
* 7-inch WVGA NLB070WV01L-01 with LVDS interface
* 7-inch WVGA NLB070WV01C-01 with CMOS interface
* 12.1-inch SVGA NLB121SV01L-01 with LVDS interface
* 15-inch XGA NLB150XG01L-01 with LVDS interface.
Larson releases magnetic mount LED flood light with pedestal base
USA: Larson Electronics has announced release of a highly versatile pedestal light that has been built to provide maximum versatility in a compact yet powerful work light design.
The WAL-M-LED60-120 LED work light features a heavy duty aluminum pedestal base with 600lbs of magnetic mounting grip, over 5,000 lumens of light output, and the ability to run from a variety of voltages including standard 120 VAC or 12 and 24 volt DC.
The Larson Electronics WAL-M-LED60-120 LED work light produces 5,556 lumens of light output and provides operators with a versatile lighting solution that can run from a variety of power sources as well as be mounted almost anywhere powerful and durable lighting is needed. This magnetic mount LED work light is highly versatile and can be used as a simple pedestal light, or can be securely attached to metal ceilings, walls, vehicles or equipment using its 600lbs of magnetic grip.
This LED work light is compact in size and has a single 60 watt LED lamp that is rated IP68 waterproof to 3 meters of submersion. This LED lamp produces 5,556 lumens of sharp white light in a wide flood pattern for excellent illumination of large spaces, and can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally to provide precise light placement. Since this unit is equipped with an LED lamp instead of the traditional incandescent or HID lamp typically used with pedestal work lights, it runs cooler, will not break or shatter if dropped, and will run for over 50,000 hours before requiring relamping.
The WAL-M-LED60-120 LED work light features a heavy duty aluminum pedestal base with 600lbs of magnetic mounting grip, over 5,000 lumens of light output, and the ability to run from a variety of voltages including standard 120 VAC or 12 and 24 volt DC.
The Larson Electronics WAL-M-LED60-120 LED work light produces 5,556 lumens of light output and provides operators with a versatile lighting solution that can run from a variety of power sources as well as be mounted almost anywhere powerful and durable lighting is needed. This magnetic mount LED work light is highly versatile and can be used as a simple pedestal light, or can be securely attached to metal ceilings, walls, vehicles or equipment using its 600lbs of magnetic grip.
This LED work light is compact in size and has a single 60 watt LED lamp that is rated IP68 waterproof to 3 meters of submersion. This LED lamp produces 5,556 lumens of sharp white light in a wide flood pattern for excellent illumination of large spaces, and can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally to provide precise light placement. Since this unit is equipped with an LED lamp instead of the traditional incandescent or HID lamp typically used with pedestal work lights, it runs cooler, will not break or shatter if dropped, and will run for over 50,000 hours before requiring relamping.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Anritsu and NETGEAR demo ultra-fast throughput of first commercial LTE-Advanced release 10 carrier aggregation device
USA: Anritsu Co. announced that LTE-Advanced Carrier Aggregation (CA) devices are one step closer to commercial deployment with a demonstration of 150 Mb/s data throughput at CTIA2013.
The demonstration will use the new NETGEAR AirCard 780S Mobile Hotspot and Anritsu MD8430A LTE Network Simulator with RTD test sequences. Aggregation of two 2x2 MIMO carriers into one "pipe" will be shown, with data rates faster than most commercial networks currently on the air. Anritsu and NETGEAR will provide the demonstration of LTE-Advanced CA capability in Anritsu's booth (#6123) at CTIA2013.
The NETGEAR AirCard 780S Mobile Hotspot is the first in a series of products currently in development that will support LTE-Advanced CA technology. LTE-Advanced CA is an important advancement that allows wireless service providers to harness fragmented spectrum resources to provide unmatched speed and coverage benefits to LTE subscribers.
The MD8430A LTE Network Simulator can simulate up to two active and four interfering LTE base stations on up to four RF channels. A mix of Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) and Time Division Duplex (TDD) base stations can be simulated, with multiple MIMO configurations possible for each base station, including SISO, 2x2 MIMO or 4x2 MIMO.
A full lineup of advanced Rel. 8, 9, and 10 features are available, including Carrier Aggregation, Dual-Layer Beamforming, Enhanced Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (eMBMS), Robust Header Compression (RoHC), Semi Persistent Scheduling (SPS), and others. The MD8430A is a building block for Anritsu's LTE Conformance and Carrier Acceptance Test (CAT) solutions, including the ME7873L LTE RF Conformance Test System and ME7834L Mobile Device Test System.
The MX786201A RTD scripting software gives users the power to create tests that cannot be done with traditional language-based tools. RTD supports testing at multiple layers in the device stack, with Low-Level Procedure Libraries for early stages of device development, and auto-configuring Layer 3 Procedure Libraries for later stages of device development. Reference Test Cases and Integration Libraries are available to enable building customized test cases and libraries with ease.
The demonstration will use the new NETGEAR AirCard 780S Mobile Hotspot and Anritsu MD8430A LTE Network Simulator with RTD test sequences. Aggregation of two 2x2 MIMO carriers into one "pipe" will be shown, with data rates faster than most commercial networks currently on the air. Anritsu and NETGEAR will provide the demonstration of LTE-Advanced CA capability in Anritsu's booth (#6123) at CTIA2013.
The NETGEAR AirCard 780S Mobile Hotspot is the first in a series of products currently in development that will support LTE-Advanced CA technology. LTE-Advanced CA is an important advancement that allows wireless service providers to harness fragmented spectrum resources to provide unmatched speed and coverage benefits to LTE subscribers.
The MD8430A LTE Network Simulator can simulate up to two active and four interfering LTE base stations on up to four RF channels. A mix of Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) and Time Division Duplex (TDD) base stations can be simulated, with multiple MIMO configurations possible for each base station, including SISO, 2x2 MIMO or 4x2 MIMO.
A full lineup of advanced Rel. 8, 9, and 10 features are available, including Carrier Aggregation, Dual-Layer Beamforming, Enhanced Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (eMBMS), Robust Header Compression (RoHC), Semi Persistent Scheduling (SPS), and others. The MD8430A is a building block for Anritsu's LTE Conformance and Carrier Acceptance Test (CAT) solutions, including the ME7873L LTE RF Conformance Test System and ME7834L Mobile Device Test System.
The MX786201A RTD scripting software gives users the power to create tests that cannot be done with traditional language-based tools. RTD supports testing at multiple layers in the device stack, with Low-Level Procedure Libraries for early stages of device development, and auto-configuring Layer 3 Procedure Libraries for later stages of device development. Reference Test Cases and Integration Libraries are available to enable building customized test cases and libraries with ease.
TI intros sensorless, brushless DC motor driver to spin motors instantly
USA: Texas Instruments Inc. (TI) expanded its sensorless, brushless DC (BLDC) motor driver portfolio with a new device designed for high efficiency and low noise, which requires a low external component count of only one capacitor.
The DRV10963 is a 5-V, 3-phase sensorless BLDC motor driver that simplifies layout and reduces board space by 80 percent, allowing designers to create smaller, sleeker, more innovative designs. It includes integrated commutation logic, which enables instant motor spin with no code development, while its 180-degree pure sinusoidal outputs provide an efficient and quiet drive.
Key features and benefits of the DRV10963:
Extended battery life: Low operating range of 5.5 to 2.1 V, low RDSON of less than 1.5 ohm and ultra-low sleep currents extend battery life up to 25 percent compared to nearest competition in fans and portable, battery-powered personal health care and grooming devices, including electric razors and toothbrushes. It provides the lowest quiescent current to further extend battery life – 15 uA compared to 30 uA for the closest competitor.
Low power: Utilizes a 16-bit, ultra-low power MSP430G2452 Value Line microcontroller with built-in timers, up to 16 I/O touch-sense enabled pins, built-in communication and a versatile analog comparator, allowing wake-up from low-power mode to active mode in less than 1 µs.
Accelerated time to market: Integrated commutation logic eliminates code development, while advanced on-chip protection reduces design complexity and improves system reliability. This cutts development time from months to minutes.
Reduced board space and ease of use: Single-chip solution slashes board space by 80 percent compared other discrete solutions, and integrated power MOSFETs simplify layout.
Efficient and quiet drive: Pure sinusoidal outputs provide efficiency and noise-free operation.
The DRV10963 is a 5-V, 3-phase sensorless BLDC motor driver that simplifies layout and reduces board space by 80 percent, allowing designers to create smaller, sleeker, more innovative designs. It includes integrated commutation logic, which enables instant motor spin with no code development, while its 180-degree pure sinusoidal outputs provide an efficient and quiet drive.
Key features and benefits of the DRV10963:
Extended battery life: Low operating range of 5.5 to 2.1 V, low RDSON of less than 1.5 ohm and ultra-low sleep currents extend battery life up to 25 percent compared to nearest competition in fans and portable, battery-powered personal health care and grooming devices, including electric razors and toothbrushes. It provides the lowest quiescent current to further extend battery life – 15 uA compared to 30 uA for the closest competitor.
Low power: Utilizes a 16-bit, ultra-low power MSP430G2452 Value Line microcontroller with built-in timers, up to 16 I/O touch-sense enabled pins, built-in communication and a versatile analog comparator, allowing wake-up from low-power mode to active mode in less than 1 µs.
Accelerated time to market: Integrated commutation logic eliminates code development, while advanced on-chip protection reduces design complexity and improves system reliability. This cutts development time from months to minutes.
Reduced board space and ease of use: Single-chip solution slashes board space by 80 percent compared other discrete solutions, and integrated power MOSFETs simplify layout.
Efficient and quiet drive: Pure sinusoidal outputs provide efficiency and noise-free operation.
First UL listed industrial GFCI from Littelfuse protects workers
USA: Littelfuse announced the SB6100 Series Industrial Shock-Block, the first and only ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) device to meet UL 943C Class C and Class D requirements.
Until now, GFCI devices have not been practical in industrial settings. Thanks to higher trip level standards and advanced filtering technology, industrial workers can finally be protected against dangerous electric shock.
GFCI devices operate by sensing a ground fault and opening the circuit very quickly. However, residential GFCI devices are too sensitive to operate in industrial applications without nuisance tripping. The brand new UL 943C standard covers such GFCI devices, designed to be used with systems up to 600V and higher leakage current higher than residential GFCI devices.
Target applications of industrial GFCI devices include electrical cabinets supplying power to pumps, paint booths, washers, mixers, welding equipment, and any high voltage machinery subject to wet conditions or wash down cleaning. In addition, industrial GFCI devices can be mounted in movable enclosures for flexible use.
Until now, GFCI devices have not been practical in industrial settings. Thanks to higher trip level standards and advanced filtering technology, industrial workers can finally be protected against dangerous electric shock.
GFCI devices operate by sensing a ground fault and opening the circuit very quickly. However, residential GFCI devices are too sensitive to operate in industrial applications without nuisance tripping. The brand new UL 943C standard covers such GFCI devices, designed to be used with systems up to 600V and higher leakage current higher than residential GFCI devices.
Target applications of industrial GFCI devices include electrical cabinets supplying power to pumps, paint booths, washers, mixers, welding equipment, and any high voltage machinery subject to wet conditions or wash down cleaning. In addition, industrial GFCI devices can be mounted in movable enclosures for flexible use.
Cree intros industry’s brightest, highest efficacy color LEDs
USA: Cree Inc. announced commercial availability of XLamp XP-E2 color LEDs.
The new XP-E2 color LEDs deliver up to 88 percent higher maximum light output compared to alternative high-power color LEDs, enabling lighting manufacturers to more cost-effectively address a wide spectrum of applications such as architectural, vehicle and display lighting.
Built on Cree’s revolutionary SC³ Technology next-generation LED platform, the new XP-E2 color LEDs deliver higher lumens-per-watt and lumens-per-dollar compared to the original XP-E color LEDs to lower system costs for existing XP-E color designs.
The new XP-E2 color LEDs leverage the same XP footprint (3.45mm x 3.45mm) and are optically compatible with the original XP-E LED – providing drop-in-ready performance enhancements to shorten design cycle and improve customer time to market.
XLamp XP-E2 color LEDs deliver up to 1409 mW for royal blue, 109 lumens for blue, 253 lumens for green, 203 lumens for amber, 193 lumens for red-orange and 155 lumens for red, all at maximum drive currents in the 3.45mm x 3.45mm footprint.
The new XP-E2 color LEDs deliver up to 88 percent higher maximum light output compared to alternative high-power color LEDs, enabling lighting manufacturers to more cost-effectively address a wide spectrum of applications such as architectural, vehicle and display lighting.
Built on Cree’s revolutionary SC³ Technology next-generation LED platform, the new XP-E2 color LEDs deliver higher lumens-per-watt and lumens-per-dollar compared to the original XP-E color LEDs to lower system costs for existing XP-E color designs.
The new XP-E2 color LEDs leverage the same XP footprint (3.45mm x 3.45mm) and are optically compatible with the original XP-E LED – providing drop-in-ready performance enhancements to shorten design cycle and improve customer time to market.
XLamp XP-E2 color LEDs deliver up to 1409 mW for royal blue, 109 lumens for blue, 253 lumens for green, 203 lumens for amber, 193 lumens for red-orange and 155 lumens for red, all at maximum drive currents in the 3.45mm x 3.45mm footprint.
Microchip’s 36V digital potentiometers support wide signal swings and high power-supply voltages
USA: Microchip Technology Inc. announced two new volatile, SPI digital potentiometers (digipots)—the MCP41HV31 and MCP41HV51 (MCP41HVXX)—its first to operate at 10, 12, 18, 24 and particularly 36 volts, for systems requiring wide signal swing or high power-supply voltages.
Additionally, these digipots support both 7-bit and 8-bit resistor configurations, and a high terminal/wiper current, including the ability to sink/source up to 25 mA on all terminal pins for driving larger loads.
These features, combined with an extended temperature range of -40°C to +125°C, make the MCP41HVXX well suited for a broad range of high-voltage and high-temperature applications, including those in the industrial, automotive and audio markets.
The MCP41HV31’s 7-bit resistor network resolution enables 127 resistors and 128 steps, while the MCP41HV51’s 8-bit configuration supports 255 resistors and 256 steps. Additionally, both digipots provide RAB resistance options of 5, 10, 50 and 100 kohms.
Both digital potentiometers are available today for samples and volume production, in 14-pin TSSOP and 20-pin, 5x5 mm QFN packages. The MCP41HV31 is $0.99 each and the MCP41HV51 is $1.09 each, in 5,000-unit quantities.
Additionally, these digipots support both 7-bit and 8-bit resistor configurations, and a high terminal/wiper current, including the ability to sink/source up to 25 mA on all terminal pins for driving larger loads.
These features, combined with an extended temperature range of -40°C to +125°C, make the MCP41HVXX well suited for a broad range of high-voltage and high-temperature applications, including those in the industrial, automotive and audio markets.
The MCP41HV31’s 7-bit resistor network resolution enables 127 resistors and 128 steps, while the MCP41HV51’s 8-bit configuration supports 255 resistors and 256 steps. Additionally, both digipots provide RAB resistance options of 5, 10, 50 and 100 kohms.
Both digital potentiometers are available today for samples and volume production, in 14-pin TSSOP and 20-pin, 5x5 mm QFN packages. The MCP41HV31 is $0.99 each and the MCP41HV51 is $1.09 each, in 5,000-unit quantities.
Larson announces release of corrosion resistant explosion proof emergency light
USA: Larson Electronics has announced the release of a powerful explosion proof fluorescent emergency light that has been designed to provide emergency backup operation and the ability to withstand wet and corrosive environmental conditions.
The HALP-EMG-48-2L-T5HO Class 1 Division 2 Emergency Fluorescent Light is built from corrosion resistant materials and features T5 HO fluorescent tubes for high output and a built in battery backup system for continued operation in the event of power failures.
The HALP-EMG-48-2L-T5HO Class 1 Division 2 emergency fluorescent light from Larson Electronics provides operators in hazardous locations with a failsafe lighting solution capable of providing illumination in the event of power failures while also withstanding the damaging effects of corrosive environments. This explosion proof emergency light looks and operates like a standard fluorescent fixture, but incorporates a corrosion resistant housing and emergency backup battery system that provides a failsafe lighting option and the ability to withstand the effects of a corrosive operating environment.
The housing on this unit is constructed with a glass fiber reinforced polyester housing with poured in gasket for reliable sealing and an impact resistant acrylic diffuser cover for even light distribution and high durability. Stainless steel latches provided added protection against corrosion and secure the acrylic diffuser to the housing to prevent drips and water intrusion. Light output is provided by a pair of T5HO fluorescent lamps which produce a combined total of 10,000 lumens of light output, making this unit ideal for illuminating larger areas such as work stations, walkways, storage areas, and anywhere large scale coverage is needed.
The HALP-EMG-48-2L-T5HO Class 1 Division 2 Emergency Fluorescent Light is built from corrosion resistant materials and features T5 HO fluorescent tubes for high output and a built in battery backup system for continued operation in the event of power failures.
The HALP-EMG-48-2L-T5HO Class 1 Division 2 emergency fluorescent light from Larson Electronics provides operators in hazardous locations with a failsafe lighting solution capable of providing illumination in the event of power failures while also withstanding the damaging effects of corrosive environments. This explosion proof emergency light looks and operates like a standard fluorescent fixture, but incorporates a corrosion resistant housing and emergency backup battery system that provides a failsafe lighting option and the ability to withstand the effects of a corrosive operating environment.
The housing on this unit is constructed with a glass fiber reinforced polyester housing with poured in gasket for reliable sealing and an impact resistant acrylic diffuser cover for even light distribution and high durability. Stainless steel latches provided added protection against corrosion and secure the acrylic diffuser to the housing to prevent drips and water intrusion. Light output is provided by a pair of T5HO fluorescent lamps which produce a combined total of 10,000 lumens of light output, making this unit ideal for illuminating larger areas such as work stations, walkways, storage areas, and anywhere large scale coverage is needed.
Mouser named distributor of the year by Amphenol Industrial
TAIWAN: Mouser Electronics Inc. has been recognized with the prestigious Amphenol Industrial Operations 2012 Industrial Distributor of the Year Award.
Amphenol Industrial has long been the accepted leader in providing quality interconnect systems to the industrial markets and is the leading manufacturer of cylindrical connectors in the world.
Mouser was recognized with the Industrial Distributor of the Year Award after being evaluated against other leading distributors for overall performance during 2012. The award was presented to Mouser Electronics’ executives at the recent Electronic Distribution Show (EDS) in Las Vegas.
“We are very honored to be recognized by Amphenol Industrial as Industrial Distributor of the Year,” said Krystal Jackson, Mouser VP of Interconnect. “Mouser’s tremendous growth over the past few years and expected growth for the future is aided by Amphenol Industrial’s superior line of quality products. As a trusted distributor of leading-edge technologies to customers worldwide, we depend on manufacturers like Amphenol Industrial for the advanced products that electronic design engineers need to get to their designs to market faster.”
“It is our pleasure to recognize the team at Mouser with our top Industrial Distributor Award. They’ve earned it with their top-notch marketing programs, new product introductions and customer-focused distribution model,” said Dee Fuller, North America Distribution Sales m\anager for Amphenol Industrial Operations. “Our business partnership with Mouser has grown over the years and we are pleased to honor them in this way. We look forward to continued future success together.”
Also, Mouser Electronics’ Product manager, Elizabeth Guerrero, received Product Manager of the Year for Amphenol Industrial Operations.
Amphenol Industrial has long been the accepted leader in providing quality interconnect systems to the industrial markets and is the leading manufacturer of cylindrical connectors in the world.
Mouser was recognized with the Industrial Distributor of the Year Award after being evaluated against other leading distributors for overall performance during 2012. The award was presented to Mouser Electronics’ executives at the recent Electronic Distribution Show (EDS) in Las Vegas.
“We are very honored to be recognized by Amphenol Industrial as Industrial Distributor of the Year,” said Krystal Jackson, Mouser VP of Interconnect. “Mouser’s tremendous growth over the past few years and expected growth for the future is aided by Amphenol Industrial’s superior line of quality products. As a trusted distributor of leading-edge technologies to customers worldwide, we depend on manufacturers like Amphenol Industrial for the advanced products that electronic design engineers need to get to their designs to market faster.”
“It is our pleasure to recognize the team at Mouser with our top Industrial Distributor Award. They’ve earned it with their top-notch marketing programs, new product introductions and customer-focused distribution model,” said Dee Fuller, North America Distribution Sales m\anager for Amphenol Industrial Operations. “Our business partnership with Mouser has grown over the years and we are pleased to honor them in this way. We look forward to continued future success together.”
Also, Mouser Electronics’ Product manager, Elizabeth Guerrero, received Product Manager of the Year for Amphenol Industrial Operations.
Osram product price drops below 10 EU as LED bulb market competition heats up in April 2013
TAIWAN: According to LEDinside, a research division of TrendForce , retail prices for LED bulbs worldwide continue to have a downward trend this year for April.
Worldwide retail price for 40W equivalent LED bulbs dropped by 5.7 percent, reaching $16.1. Newly added items in the markets were few. 60W equivalent. LED bulb price also experienced a decline, with a worldwide average drop of 1.2 percent, reaching $23.8. The ASPs in most areas maintained a stable decrease, except for China and Taiwan where the high prices of newly added products lead to an increase.
40W equivalent bulb ASP dropped below $10 in China
LEDinside expressed that worldwide 40W equivalent LED bulb retail price for April declined by 5.7 percent, reaching $16.1. Newly added items in the regions were few. Prices in the UK and Germany in April slid by 5.3 percent and 13.2 percent, respectively, with existing productprices having an extensive downward trend, especially for Osram and Samsung who had an obvious decline in product price. Both UK and Germany did not see any newly added items for this month.
The end of sales promotion period of some products in the Japanese region caused an inflation of 20.2 percent for the 40W equivalent LED bulb average price. This area temporarily did not have any newly added items. The average price in the US has increased by 3.7 percent. The existing product price had a slight fluctuation and no new items will be added. Korean prices had a slight decline of 1.6 percent, with existing product prices remaining the same, while the price drop was mainly due to the growth in exchange rate.
The 40W equivalent bulb price dropped by 9 percent in China, reaching $9.8, remained the lowest in the current surveyed regions. This is mainly due to sales promotion on part of product, led a sufficient drop in price. With the prices of newly added items in the Taiwanese region leading to an average price drop, the ASP for April slid by 16.7 percent with existing product prices maintaining stable.
60W equivalent bulb price had a clear decline in the European market
There was a drop of 1.2 percent in 60W equivalent LED bulb price, reaching $23.8. The ASPs in most areas maintained a stable decrease, except for China and Taiwan where the high prices of newly added products lead to increase.
Prices in the Japanese region in April declined by 7.1 percent, reaching $23.9. Existing product price had a slight fluctuation, and the price decline was mostly caused by exchange rate growth. Korean region prices had a slight slide of 1.6 percent, with existing product prices experiencing no change, while exchange rate growth causing the prices to drop.
The US price declined by 0.7 percent with a slight fluctuation in existing product price. Newly added items for this month were many. UK and Germany had a drop in price of 4.8 percent and 7.3 percent, respectively. Existing product prices in Germany had a large general large reduction, with newly added items being few in these two regions.
Chinese and Taiwanese regions had a price rise of 11.6 percent and 13.4 percent for 60W equivalent bulbs. Existing product prices for these two regions remained stable, while high prices of newly added items leading to an average price increase.
European prices consistently declined, and the competition with Korean manufacturers intensified
LEDinside observed that in April, Osram and Samsung bulb products had a clear price drop in the European region. After Samsung’s 7.5W LED bulb price broke 10 EU, Osram also had a large drop in retail price, whose 8W LED bulb with a luminous flux of 470lm that are used to replace 40W incandescent light bulbs had a retail price of 9.95 EU in the German region for April.
LEDinside believes that Osram’s move to drop the price shows its intent and determination for seizing the European lighting consumer market. Also at the same time, Korean manufacturers such as , Samsung continues to use the price-war strategy, repeatedly dropping prices and actively gaining the European market share.
With the European market competition speedily heating up, and with product prices continuing to decline, it can be observed that the implemetation of ban on incandescent lamp and the economic recovery after the European debt crisis has brought growing positive impact on the LED bulb market, and LED bulb penetration rate is expected to increase quickly.
Worldwide retail price for 40W equivalent LED bulbs dropped by 5.7 percent, reaching $16.1. Newly added items in the markets were few. 60W equivalent. LED bulb price also experienced a decline, with a worldwide average drop of 1.2 percent, reaching $23.8. The ASPs in most areas maintained a stable decrease, except for China and Taiwan where the high prices of newly added products lead to an increase.
40W equivalent bulb ASP dropped below $10 in China
LEDinside expressed that worldwide 40W equivalent LED bulb retail price for April declined by 5.7 percent, reaching $16.1. Newly added items in the regions were few. Prices in the UK and Germany in April slid by 5.3 percent and 13.2 percent, respectively, with existing productprices having an extensive downward trend, especially for Osram and Samsung who had an obvious decline in product price. Both UK and Germany did not see any newly added items for this month.
The end of sales promotion period of some products in the Japanese region caused an inflation of 20.2 percent for the 40W equivalent LED bulb average price. This area temporarily did not have any newly added items. The average price in the US has increased by 3.7 percent. The existing product price had a slight fluctuation and no new items will be added. Korean prices had a slight decline of 1.6 percent, with existing product prices remaining the same, while the price drop was mainly due to the growth in exchange rate.
60W equivalent bulb price had a clear decline in the European market
There was a drop of 1.2 percent in 60W equivalent LED bulb price, reaching $23.8. The ASPs in most areas maintained a stable decrease, except for China and Taiwan where the high prices of newly added products lead to increase.
Prices in the Japanese region in April declined by 7.1 percent, reaching $23.9. Existing product price had a slight fluctuation, and the price decline was mostly caused by exchange rate growth. Korean region prices had a slight slide of 1.6 percent, with existing product prices experiencing no change, while exchange rate growth causing the prices to drop.
Chinese and Taiwanese regions had a price rise of 11.6 percent and 13.4 percent for 60W equivalent bulbs. Existing product prices for these two regions remained stable, while high prices of newly added items leading to an average price increase.
European prices consistently declined, and the competition with Korean manufacturers intensified
LEDinside observed that in April, Osram and Samsung bulb products had a clear price drop in the European region. After Samsung’s 7.5W LED bulb price broke 10 EU, Osram also had a large drop in retail price, whose 8W LED bulb with a luminous flux of 470lm that are used to replace 40W incandescent light bulbs had a retail price of 9.95 EU in the German region for April.
LEDinside believes that Osram’s move to drop the price shows its intent and determination for seizing the European lighting consumer market. Also at the same time, Korean manufacturers such as , Samsung continues to use the price-war strategy, repeatedly dropping prices and actively gaining the European market share.
With the European market competition speedily heating up, and with product prices continuing to decline, it can be observed that the implemetation of ban on incandescent lamp and the economic recovery after the European debt crisis has brought growing positive impact on the LED bulb market, and LED bulb penetration rate is expected to increase quickly.
Farnell Element14 launches wireless multimeter from Fluke
ENGLAND: Farnell element14 will stock the Fluke CNX3000 wireless multimeter, which allows the user to solve problems faster and manage results from multiple sources.
Part of the new Fluke wireless troubleshooting team, the CNX3000 gives visibility of live measurements from multiple modules simultaneously and remotely on a single screen. Displaying readings from up to three wireless modules, plus the meter, the optional laptop adapter can display readings from up to 10 modules, both from up to 20 metres away.
Chris Godfrey, MRO Segment Manager at Farnell element14, said: "The CNX3000 is a really exciting development for us as it allows the user to take multiple measurements at the same time, wirelessly. We are constantly developing our product range in the sector to make it easier for our customers to find all the products they need from one distributor."
Alan Thomson, Global Sales director for Fluke, said: "We are very proud of the CNX3000. The completely wireless function allows the capture of up to 65,000 sets of min/max/avg readings over single to multiple logging sessions using the recording capability. It also allows the isolation of intermittent events or recording signal fluctuations without even being there using the log function on the modules. Safety is increased as readings can be taken in a separate location from the point of measurement."
Part of the new Fluke wireless troubleshooting team, the CNX3000 gives visibility of live measurements from multiple modules simultaneously and remotely on a single screen. Displaying readings from up to three wireless modules, plus the meter, the optional laptop adapter can display readings from up to 10 modules, both from up to 20 metres away.
Chris Godfrey, MRO Segment Manager at Farnell element14, said: "The CNX3000 is a really exciting development for us as it allows the user to take multiple measurements at the same time, wirelessly. We are constantly developing our product range in the sector to make it easier for our customers to find all the products they need from one distributor."
Alan Thomson, Global Sales director for Fluke, said: "We are very proud of the CNX3000. The completely wireless function allows the capture of up to 65,000 sets of min/max/avg readings over single to multiple logging sessions using the recording capability. It also allows the isolation of intermittent events or recording signal fluctuations without even being there using the log function on the modules. Safety is increased as readings can be taken in a separate location from the point of measurement."
VPT intros series of radiation hardened DC-DC power conversion products for space power systems
SPACE TECH EXPO, USA: VPT Inc., a HEICO company, announced the availability of a new series of radiation hardened DC-DC power converters, point of load converters, and EMI filters to power space systems.
The new SVR Series of space power products includes 24 new modules in 7 product families, all based on space-proven heritage designs and available qualified to MIL-PRF-38534 Class K. These are the first power conversion products commercially available that are out-of-the-box compliant to the new Aerospace Technical Operating Report (TOR) requirements for space power systems.
The new SVR Series of power products are suited for use in low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), geostationary orbit (GEO), deep space, and launch vehicle programs.
VPT's SVR Series also features maximum levels of radiation hardening with a Total Ionizing Dose (TID) level of 100 krad(Si). Unique to VPT, these products include Enhanced Low Dose Rate Sensitivity (ELDRS) in the total dose rating for maximum reliability.
The Single Event Effects (SEE) rating for these products is 85 MeV-cm2/mg. All modules have been submitted to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) for Standard Microcircuit Drawings (SMDs) with most modules available on released SMDs.
The new SVR Series of space power products includes 24 new modules in 7 product families, all based on space-proven heritage designs and available qualified to MIL-PRF-38534 Class K. These are the first power conversion products commercially available that are out-of-the-box compliant to the new Aerospace Technical Operating Report (TOR) requirements for space power systems.
The new SVR Series of power products are suited for use in low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), geostationary orbit (GEO), deep space, and launch vehicle programs.
VPT's SVR Series also features maximum levels of radiation hardening with a Total Ionizing Dose (TID) level of 100 krad(Si). Unique to VPT, these products include Enhanced Low Dose Rate Sensitivity (ELDRS) in the total dose rating for maximum reliability.
The Single Event Effects (SEE) rating for these products is 85 MeV-cm2/mg. All modules have been submitted to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) for Standard Microcircuit Drawings (SMDs) with most modules available on released SMDs.
Mitsubishi announces DiamondPlus 1100B modular UPS series
USA: Mitsubishi Electric Power Products Inc. has launched the DiamondPlus 1100B uninterruptible power supply (UPS) series.
The DiamondPlus 1100B (DP1100B) is a modular, three phase, double conversion, on-line UPS that can be configured in 10kVA increments from 10kVA to 80kVA. The DiamondPlus 1100B complements the DiamondPlus 1100A UPS, which ranges from 10kVA to 50kVA.
With its compact footprint, innovative design, and energy efficiency of up to 93.1 percent, the DiamondPlus 1100B provides users with a reduced Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over competitive UPS units. The small, lightweight DP1100B requires less floor area, saving precious computing space whether in a raised floor application or in an IT closet.
The modular DP1100B UPS allows customers the flexibility to scale with the growing needs of their businesses. The DiamondPlus 1100B is ENERGY STAR certified, meeting the stringent testing requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency.
The DiamondPlus 1100B (DP1100B) is a modular, three phase, double conversion, on-line UPS that can be configured in 10kVA increments from 10kVA to 80kVA. The DiamondPlus 1100B complements the DiamondPlus 1100A UPS, which ranges from 10kVA to 50kVA.
With its compact footprint, innovative design, and energy efficiency of up to 93.1 percent, the DiamondPlus 1100B provides users with a reduced Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over competitive UPS units. The small, lightweight DP1100B requires less floor area, saving precious computing space whether in a raised floor application or in an IT closet.
The modular DP1100B UPS allows customers the flexibility to scale with the growing needs of their businesses. The DiamondPlus 1100B is ENERGY STAR certified, meeting the stringent testing requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Littelfuse increases voltage output of multipulse SIDAC devices
USA: Littelfuse Inc., the global leader in circuit protection, has introduced the Kxxx1GL Series Multipulse SIDAC, a thyristor power control device designed for use in 220-240V AC line installations.
The thyristor, when coupled with a capacitor and transformer, generates the multiple high voltage pulses required to ignite metal-halide lamps. These new devices offer designers of metal-halide lamp ignition circuits the advantages of lower switching loss for higher pulse voltages, improved tolerance for input voltage variations, and longer pulse durations than the company’s earlier Kxxx1G Series devices.
The Kxxx01GL Series exhibits lower switching loss than comparable competitive devices, so it can produce higher pulse voltages for pulse-start type ignition circuits. Although the Kxxx1GL Series Multipulse SIDAC is available in three versions for high design flexibility, other suppliers offer only two versions.
The turn-on characteristics of the Kxxx1GL Series have been modified and the switching loss lowered to match the latest igniter circuit designs, so these new devices can generate at least 20 percent higher pulse voltages than the earlier Kxxx1G Series.
Typical applications of the Kxxx1GL Series include use in metal-halide lamp igniter circuits in medium to large scale metal-halide lamp installations, such as in gyms, street lighting, and sports stadium illumination.
The thyristor, when coupled with a capacitor and transformer, generates the multiple high voltage pulses required to ignite metal-halide lamps. These new devices offer designers of metal-halide lamp ignition circuits the advantages of lower switching loss for higher pulse voltages, improved tolerance for input voltage variations, and longer pulse durations than the company’s earlier Kxxx1G Series devices.
The Kxxx01GL Series exhibits lower switching loss than comparable competitive devices, so it can produce higher pulse voltages for pulse-start type ignition circuits. Although the Kxxx1GL Series Multipulse SIDAC is available in three versions for high design flexibility, other suppliers offer only two versions.
The turn-on characteristics of the Kxxx1GL Series have been modified and the switching loss lowered to match the latest igniter circuit designs, so these new devices can generate at least 20 percent higher pulse voltages than the earlier Kxxx1G Series.
Typical applications of the Kxxx1GL Series include use in metal-halide lamp igniter circuits in medium to large scale metal-halide lamp installations, such as in gyms, street lighting, and sports stadium illumination.
Sumitomo Electric receives certification for world's thinnest Thunderbolt cable
JAPAN: Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd is pleased to announce that certification has been received from Intel Corp. for its thin Thunderbolt cable, and mass production started in May 2013 for this new product.
Based on Intel's Thunderbolt technology, Sumitomo Electric has developed thin Thunderbolt cables, and recently obtained Intel Corporation's official certification for the new Thunderbolt product.
This advancement in cable technology allows for a conventional 4.2mm diameter to be reduced to 3.2mm without sacrificing performance. The thin Thunderbolt cable will be available in lengths of 0.3 m, 0.5 m, 1.0 m and 2.0 m, and in colors of black and white. The variety of these 8 new items will be added to the existing 15 products (12 metal cables and 3 optical cables).
Achievement for thin Thunderbolt cables results in approximately 25 percent smaller outer diameter and 42 percent smaller sectional area allowing this compact design improved flexibility and user friendliness. Transmission data rates are not compromised by this thin construction, and can reliably maintain high speed 10Gbps standards for this high technology cable.
Based on Intel's Thunderbolt technology, Sumitomo Electric has developed thin Thunderbolt cables, and recently obtained Intel Corporation's official certification for the new Thunderbolt product.
This advancement in cable technology allows for a conventional 4.2mm diameter to be reduced to 3.2mm without sacrificing performance. The thin Thunderbolt cable will be available in lengths of 0.3 m, 0.5 m, 1.0 m and 2.0 m, and in colors of black and white. The variety of these 8 new items will be added to the existing 15 products (12 metal cables and 3 optical cables).
Achievement for thin Thunderbolt cables results in approximately 25 percent smaller outer diameter and 42 percent smaller sectional area allowing this compact design improved flexibility and user friendliness. Transmission data rates are not compromised by this thin construction, and can reliably maintain high speed 10Gbps standards for this high technology cable.
Molex earns recognition as John Deere “partner-level” supplier
USA: Molex Inc. has earned recognition as a Partner-level supplier for 2012 in the John Deere Achieving Excellence Program.
The Partner-level status is Deere & Company’s highest supplier rating. Molex was selected for the honor in recognition of its dedication to providing products and service of outstanding quality as well as its commitment to continuous improvement. Company employees accepted the recognition during formal ceremonies held March 6th, 2013 in Davenport, Iowa.
Molex global manufacturing network serves John Deere divisions and customers worldwide. Molex brings expertise in datacom, telecom, industrial and automotive industries to support John Deere initiatives aimed at enhancing automation and the productivity of next-generation equipment.
Suppliers who participate in the Achieving Excellence program are evaluated annually in several key performance categories, including quality, cost management, delivery, technical support and wavelength, which is a measure of responsiveness. John Deere Supply Management created the program in 1991 to provide a supplier evaluation and feedback process that promotes continuous improvement.
The Partner-level status is Deere & Company’s highest supplier rating. Molex was selected for the honor in recognition of its dedication to providing products and service of outstanding quality as well as its commitment to continuous improvement. Company employees accepted the recognition during formal ceremonies held March 6th, 2013 in Davenport, Iowa.
Molex global manufacturing network serves John Deere divisions and customers worldwide. Molex brings expertise in datacom, telecom, industrial and automotive industries to support John Deere initiatives aimed at enhancing automation and the productivity of next-generation equipment.
Suppliers who participate in the Achieving Excellence program are evaluated annually in several key performance categories, including quality, cost management, delivery, technical support and wavelength, which is a measure of responsiveness. John Deere Supply Management created the program in 1991 to provide a supplier evaluation and feedback process that promotes continuous improvement.
Ethertronics’ plug-and-play active antenna system solutions ease integration woes for M2M vendors
CTIA WIRELESS 2013, USA: Ethertronics, a leading technology company enabling innovative active antenna and RF system solutions to deliver the best connected experience, is showcasing its industry-leading, plug-and-play M2M solutions – including EtherModule 1.0 and EtherLTE – this week during CTIA 2013 in Las Vegas.
EtherModule 1.0 leverages Ethertronics’ extensive expertise in advanced antenna architecture, RF systems, and chip design to deliver the industry’s only plug-and-play module for M2M solutions. EtherLTE is the only integrated, plug-and-play active antenna system for M2M modules covering 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE.
Given their plug-and-play designs, both EtherModule 1.0 and EtherLTE enable product designers to quickly deliver high-performance M2M designs in very small form factors, while overcoming challenging RF environments, such as frequency drifts, environmental effects, and hand and head effects.
EtherModule 1.0 – a turnkey, plug-and-play active antenna system module – addresses the challenges facing today’s product designers for M2M applications and other wireless devices. Combining Ethertronics’ advanced antenna architecture and its proprietary EtherChip 1.0 tunable capacitor gives Ethertronics full control of the optimization and enables easy integration in any M2M device.
EtherModule 1.0 is a highly modular and optimized broad band self-tuning antenna solution enabling integration in any M2M device. Given the combination of closed loop functionality with a proprietary algorithm integrated in conjunction with a microprocessor, the module is capable of dynamically sensing and optimizing the antenna system, without external control signals from the device.
This approach provides tuning capability; seamlessly adjusting the characteristics of the antenna to its dynamic requirements – including frequency shift, hand, head and environmental effects, or more bandwidth. EtherModule 1.0 minimizes the need for additional engineering design time and gets M2M products to market faster. Its compact size at 35x15x10mm and ability to cover a wide range of frequency needs – from 100MHz up to several GHz covering 2G, 3G, 4G cellular as well as Bluetooth, ISM, WiFi, and ZigBee bands – make it ideal for M2M devices.
The active antenna system technologies behind EtherModule 1.0 have been commercially integrated into products, where high performance and reliability are critical, such as an automated medicine dispenser and cabinet, enabling accurate readings even in the most challenging RF environments, ensuring medication is available and verifying that the correct medication is dispensed and administered.
EtherLTE is a PCB antenna with all components integrated into a single plug-and-play active antenna solution. By utilizing Active Band Switching techniques, EtherLTE is able to cover the lower cellular and LTE frequency bands at 700-960MHz, as well as the higher bands at 1710-2170MHz. At 44.0x10.0x3.3mm, the compact antenna system can be easily integrated into smaller form factors.
EtherModule 1.0 leverages Ethertronics’ extensive expertise in advanced antenna architecture, RF systems, and chip design to deliver the industry’s only plug-and-play module for M2M solutions. EtherLTE is the only integrated, plug-and-play active antenna system for M2M modules covering 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE.
Given their plug-and-play designs, both EtherModule 1.0 and EtherLTE enable product designers to quickly deliver high-performance M2M designs in very small form factors, while overcoming challenging RF environments, such as frequency drifts, environmental effects, and hand and head effects.
EtherModule 1.0 – a turnkey, plug-and-play active antenna system module – addresses the challenges facing today’s product designers for M2M applications and other wireless devices. Combining Ethertronics’ advanced antenna architecture and its proprietary EtherChip 1.0 tunable capacitor gives Ethertronics full control of the optimization and enables easy integration in any M2M device.
EtherModule 1.0 is a highly modular and optimized broad band self-tuning antenna solution enabling integration in any M2M device. Given the combination of closed loop functionality with a proprietary algorithm integrated in conjunction with a microprocessor, the module is capable of dynamically sensing and optimizing the antenna system, without external control signals from the device.
This approach provides tuning capability; seamlessly adjusting the characteristics of the antenna to its dynamic requirements – including frequency shift, hand, head and environmental effects, or more bandwidth. EtherModule 1.0 minimizes the need for additional engineering design time and gets M2M products to market faster. Its compact size at 35x15x10mm and ability to cover a wide range of frequency needs – from 100MHz up to several GHz covering 2G, 3G, 4G cellular as well as Bluetooth, ISM, WiFi, and ZigBee bands – make it ideal for M2M devices.
The active antenna system technologies behind EtherModule 1.0 have been commercially integrated into products, where high performance and reliability are critical, such as an automated medicine dispenser and cabinet, enabling accurate readings even in the most challenging RF environments, ensuring medication is available and verifying that the correct medication is dispensed and administered.
EtherLTE is a PCB antenna with all components integrated into a single plug-and-play active antenna solution. By utilizing Active Band Switching techniques, EtherLTE is able to cover the lower cellular and LTE frequency bands at 700-960MHz, as well as the higher bands at 1710-2170MHz. At 44.0x10.0x3.3mm, the compact antenna system can be easily integrated into smaller form factors.
Mouser Electronics’ lighting applications site shines with enhanced features
TAIWAN: Mouser Electronics Inc. announced that its Lighting Applications site on Mouser.com covering the entire lighting ecosystem has been expanded to include featured products, a new application feature, and several of the latest lighting industry articles.
The updated site helps design engineers find the latest lighting advancements, trends, and supporting product information in as few clicks as possible. A new featured products section has been added, including products from leading suppliers such as Philips Lumileds, Cree and OSRAM Opto Semiconductors.
There is also a new featured application, the Instrument Cluster Backlight, with a block diagram and other supporting resources. The articles section has been updated as well to include the latest lighting articles by Philips Lumileds, OSRAM Opto Semiconductors, and Mouser.
“We always want to offer the newest lighting technology available from the world’s leading manufacturers,” says Kevin Hess, Mouser VP of Technical Marketing. “Our expanded Lighting Applications site makes it easier for engineers to identify the right lighting solutions for their newest designs. To keep you up-to-date on the latest technologies, we are frequently adding new products and technical resources to the lighting site, so check back often.”
Mouser’s lighting application training site is a comprehensive resource center spanning three areas: products, applications, and design engineering resources. The Lighting Product Selector Guide is arranged into five main product categories with a graphical interface to speed navigation. Engineers can quickly narrow down a set of products based on defined parameters/engineering standards geared to their specific design needs.
The updated site helps design engineers find the latest lighting advancements, trends, and supporting product information in as few clicks as possible. A new featured products section has been added, including products from leading suppliers such as Philips Lumileds, Cree and OSRAM Opto Semiconductors.
There is also a new featured application, the Instrument Cluster Backlight, with a block diagram and other supporting resources. The articles section has been updated as well to include the latest lighting articles by Philips Lumileds, OSRAM Opto Semiconductors, and Mouser.
“We always want to offer the newest lighting technology available from the world’s leading manufacturers,” says Kevin Hess, Mouser VP of Technical Marketing. “Our expanded Lighting Applications site makes it easier for engineers to identify the right lighting solutions for their newest designs. To keep you up-to-date on the latest technologies, we are frequently adding new products and technical resources to the lighting site, so check back often.”
Mouser’s lighting application training site is a comprehensive resource center spanning three areas: products, applications, and design engineering resources. The Lighting Product Selector Guide is arranged into five main product categories with a graphical interface to speed navigation. Engineers can quickly narrow down a set of products based on defined parameters/engineering standards geared to their specific design needs.
GlacialPower announces two DC input LED drivers
TAIWAN: GlacialPower, a division of the Taiwanese technology manufacturer, GlacialTech Inc., announced two new GlacialPower LED drivers for variable voltage LED lights - GP-LD10-30C and GP-LD15-24C.
The GP-LD10-30C and GP-LD15-24Care multi-use scenario LED drivers fit for a wide range of implementations. They can be used on vessels or vehicles and with power sources with fluctuating voltage.They have been designed to work well with solar panels for LED luminance. Included are many power and environmental ruggedness features to ensure maximum safety.
Both drivers have been designed built-in constant current design with buck-boost topology, and a variety of safety cut off features to withstand the harshest ripple in the supplied power. An integral component is the low voltage protector. If the input voltage is lower than the UVLO protection point, below the operational value, the device will shut down automatically thus saving the connected lights. Standard Short-Circuit Protection and Over Voltage Protection are also included.
They both have auto input voltage detectors. This ensures driver safety as it can detect 12 or 24V input. Reverse Protection is included to prevent accidentally connecting the power lines in reverse from damaging the driver by automatically disconnecting the current. The highly secure and rugged IP65 design exterior insures no ingress of dust and water as well as complete protection against contact. It also ruggedly operates at a wide variation in temperature, from -20 to 40oC.
The GP-LD10-30C and GP-LD15-24Care multi-use scenario LED drivers fit for a wide range of implementations. They can be used on vessels or vehicles and with power sources with fluctuating voltage.They have been designed to work well with solar panels for LED luminance. Included are many power and environmental ruggedness features to ensure maximum safety.
Both drivers have been designed built-in constant current design with buck-boost topology, and a variety of safety cut off features to withstand the harshest ripple in the supplied power. An integral component is the low voltage protector. If the input voltage is lower than the UVLO protection point, below the operational value, the device will shut down automatically thus saving the connected lights. Standard Short-Circuit Protection and Over Voltage Protection are also included.
They both have auto input voltage detectors. This ensures driver safety as it can detect 12 or 24V input. Reverse Protection is included to prevent accidentally connecting the power lines in reverse from damaging the driver by automatically disconnecting the current. The highly secure and rugged IP65 design exterior insures no ingress of dust and water as well as complete protection against contact. It also ruggedly operates at a wide variation in temperature, from -20 to 40oC.
Monday, May 20, 2013
M&A in China and Taiwan’s LED chip industry accelerates in 2013
TAIWAN: According to LEDinside, a research division of TrendForce, starting from August 2012, at least five M&A cases occurred in China and Taiwan.
Epistar, for example, acquired 49 percent of Huga’s equity, and Sanan Opto acquired 120 million of FOREPI’s common stock. LEDinside indicated that starting from 2010, Chinese LED chip industries have aggressively invested in chips and caused severe oversupply in the market; chip price has continued to decline, and most industries have been struggling to survive in the industry.
Even with the economic recovery, upstream LED chip manufacturers still failed to extricate themselves from the oversupply situation. Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that M&A is the only solution to this problem.
Overheated investment results in oversupply, MOCVD’s utilization rate drops to less than 50 percent in 2012
In 2009, the Yangzhou government first announced a subsidy policy for MOCVDs. Subsidies are issued to expansion projects with a one-time purchase five or more brand new MOCVDs for LED epi wafer production. The governments of Jiangmen, Wuhu, Hangzhou, and Wuhan have also successively announced similar policies.
According to LEDinside’s statistics, as of the end of 2012, there were over 900 MOCVDs in China, but the utilization rate was less than 50 percent. The subsidy for MOCVDs has caused a sudden increase of new LED epitaxial wafer projects in China. According to statistics, 65 LED epitaxial wafer projects were established during 2009-2012, but due to the market downturn, over 30 percent of the projects have been held up or even terminated.
To companies facing a decline in gross profit, capital matters more than technology
Following the fierce competition caused by oversupply in the market, several chip manufacturers that received the government’s subsidy have reduced chip price in order to acquire a larger market share –a strategy which instantly caused a downturn and serious oversupply problem in the chip market.LEDinside discovered that Chinese LED chip price for display application has declined most severely in 2012; the price of several low-end products has even dropped by 50 percent.
Most Chinese chip manufacturers who majorly target display market nearly faced deficit in 2012; Silan Azure, for example, only achieved a small gross margin of 5.7 percent in 2012, and several companies without sufficient funds even shut down. It is clear that the success of Chinese LED chip manufacturers no longer depends on advanced technology, but instead a huge capital and price competition.
Manufacturers with a huge capital will survive the market downturn, M&A consistently occur in 2013
Oversupply in the market may still continue, and can not be solved in the short term. Observed from the slower decline in chip prices, most upstream manufacturers have already run out of funds. After several years of overdraft, the possibility of receiving new funds has dropped to the lowest point.
However, the market recovery has encouraged well-funded manufacturers to invest again in the market by acquiring equities and merging with other companies. LEDinside estimates that in the coming year, M&A will be applied by most, if not all, LED chip manufacturers in China.
Epistar, for example, acquired 49 percent of Huga’s equity, and Sanan Opto acquired 120 million of FOREPI’s common stock. LEDinside indicated that starting from 2010, Chinese LED chip industries have aggressively invested in chips and caused severe oversupply in the market; chip price has continued to decline, and most industries have been struggling to survive in the industry.
Even with the economic recovery, upstream LED chip manufacturers still failed to extricate themselves from the oversupply situation. Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that M&A is the only solution to this problem.
Overheated investment results in oversupply, MOCVD’s utilization rate drops to less than 50 percent in 2012
In 2009, the Yangzhou government first announced a subsidy policy for MOCVDs. Subsidies are issued to expansion projects with a one-time purchase five or more brand new MOCVDs for LED epi wafer production. The governments of Jiangmen, Wuhu, Hangzhou, and Wuhan have also successively announced similar policies.
To companies facing a decline in gross profit, capital matters more than technology
Following the fierce competition caused by oversupply in the market, several chip manufacturers that received the government’s subsidy have reduced chip price in order to acquire a larger market share –a strategy which instantly caused a downturn and serious oversupply problem in the chip market.LEDinside discovered that Chinese LED chip price for display application has declined most severely in 2012; the price of several low-end products has even dropped by 50 percent.
Most Chinese chip manufacturers who majorly target display market nearly faced deficit in 2012; Silan Azure, for example, only achieved a small gross margin of 5.7 percent in 2012, and several companies without sufficient funds even shut down. It is clear that the success of Chinese LED chip manufacturers no longer depends on advanced technology, but instead a huge capital and price competition.
Oversupply in the market may still continue, and can not be solved in the short term. Observed from the slower decline in chip prices, most upstream manufacturers have already run out of funds. After several years of overdraft, the possibility of receiving new funds has dropped to the lowest point.
However, the market recovery has encouraged well-funded manufacturers to invest again in the market by acquiring equities and merging with other companies. LEDinside estimates that in the coming year, M&A will be applied by most, if not all, LED chip manufacturers in China.
TTI presents “2012 TTI Supplier Excellence Award" to Molex
SINGAPORE: TTI Electronics Asia are extremely pleased to announce that Molex Asia Pacific South has been recognized for the “2012 TTI Supplier Excellence Award”.
This is the second consecutive years that Molex has receives this recognition. The program is centered on quality measurements which include: on-time delivery, receiving quality, customer quality, administrative quality and business systems. In addition, there also are performance measurements including sales results, profitability and percent growth.
This is the sixth year that TTI Asia has given out the Supplier Excellence Awards. The intent of this program is to foster continuous improvement in supplier and distributor performance, by providing monthly performance results to all suppliers. Overall supplier performance has substantially improved since the inception of the recognition program.
“It’s an honor to receive this recognition from TTI, "Cheong Tuck Meng, Molex, said. "The award highlights the strong partnership between TTI and Molex. We look forward to a higher breakthrough in our business and continue to improve on our quality standard."
Gene Conahan, TTI added. “We at TTI appreciate Molex who continue providing us with a good standard of quality, delivery and service. I foresee we will continue to strengthen our partnership with Molex and continue to expand our market share in Asia."
This is the second consecutive years that Molex has receives this recognition. The program is centered on quality measurements which include: on-time delivery, receiving quality, customer quality, administrative quality and business systems. In addition, there also are performance measurements including sales results, profitability and percent growth.
This is the sixth year that TTI Asia has given out the Supplier Excellence Awards. The intent of this program is to foster continuous improvement in supplier and distributor performance, by providing monthly performance results to all suppliers. Overall supplier performance has substantially improved since the inception of the recognition program.
“It’s an honor to receive this recognition from TTI, "Cheong Tuck Meng, Molex, said. "The award highlights the strong partnership between TTI and Molex. We look forward to a higher breakthrough in our business and continue to improve on our quality standard."
Gene Conahan, TTI added. “We at TTI appreciate Molex who continue providing us with a good standard of quality, delivery and service. I foresee we will continue to strengthen our partnership with Molex and continue to expand our market share in Asia."
TTI Asia presents “2012 Supplier Excellence Awards" to Vishay
SINGAPORE: TTI Asia are extremely pleased to announce that Vishay Intertechnology Asia had been recognized for the Diamond Award and Supplier Excellence Award, Gold from TTI in 2012. This is also the third consecutive year that Vishay has achieved winning the awards.
Vishay Intertechnology Asia has achieved the highest scores in all major related areas of the supplier program in 2012 and also the highest accolade being the Diamond Award for the best overall score.
The Supplier Assessment Scheme is centered on quality measurements which include: on-time delivery, receiving quality, customer quality, administrative quality and business systems. In addition, there also are performance measurements including sales results, profitability and percentage growth.
This is the sixth year that TTI Asia has presented the Supplier Excellence Awards; the objective of this program is to foster continuous improvement in supplier and distributor performance, by providing monthly performance results to all suppliers and holding regular review meetings. Overall supplier performance has substantially improved since the inception of the recognition program and TTI Asia is thrilled with the results that enable us to provide excellence on time delivery and quality to our end customers .
TTI Asia is extremely pleased to present the awards to Vishay Asia, in recognition of their highest levels of service and quality support to TTI in the past years.
Vishay Intertechnology Asia has achieved the highest scores in all major related areas of the supplier program in 2012 and also the highest accolade being the Diamond Award for the best overall score.
The Supplier Assessment Scheme is centered on quality measurements which include: on-time delivery, receiving quality, customer quality, administrative quality and business systems. In addition, there also are performance measurements including sales results, profitability and percentage growth.
This is the sixth year that TTI Asia has presented the Supplier Excellence Awards; the objective of this program is to foster continuous improvement in supplier and distributor performance, by providing monthly performance results to all suppliers and holding regular review meetings. Overall supplier performance has substantially improved since the inception of the recognition program and TTI Asia is thrilled with the results that enable us to provide excellence on time delivery and quality to our end customers .
TTI Asia is extremely pleased to present the awards to Vishay Asia, in recognition of their highest levels of service and quality support to TTI in the past years.
ZMDI releases primary-side peak-current mode LED driver for high-brightness LED lighting
GERMANY: ZMD AG (ZMDI), a Dresden-based semiconductor company that specializes in enabling energy-efficient solutions, today announces the release of the newest member of its LED driver family, the ZSLS7031, a primary-side peak-current mode LED driver for high-brightness LED lighting.
As a global supplier of analog and mixed-signal solutions for automotive, industrial, medical, information technology and consumer applications, ZMDI specializes in products that enable energy efficient solutions such as the ZSLS7031. This product is well suited for many consumer, commercial and industrial lighting applications, particularly where electrical isolation is required. LED drivers from ZMDI can significantly improve the quality and energy efficiency of end-product LED applications.
"The ZSLS7031, our second line-power LED driver, complements the advantages of our ZLED7001 by adding isolated and exciting new non-isolated applications. The device works at a constant frequency in discontinuous conduction mode to provide constant power to the output. The ZSLS7031 eliminates the need for an opto-coupler or any other type of secondary-side feedback and operates from a wide input voltage range of 85VAC to 265VAC," said Erhard Muesch, system architect at ZMDI.
As a global supplier of analog and mixed-signal solutions for automotive, industrial, medical, information technology and consumer applications, ZMDI specializes in products that enable energy efficient solutions such as the ZSLS7031. This product is well suited for many consumer, commercial and industrial lighting applications, particularly where electrical isolation is required. LED drivers from ZMDI can significantly improve the quality and energy efficiency of end-product LED applications.
"The ZSLS7031, our second line-power LED driver, complements the advantages of our ZLED7001 by adding isolated and exciting new non-isolated applications. The device works at a constant frequency in discontinuous conduction mode to provide constant power to the output. The ZSLS7031 eliminates the need for an opto-coupler or any other type of secondary-side feedback and operates from a wide input voltage range of 85VAC to 265VAC," said Erhard Muesch, system architect at ZMDI.
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