Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Innovative technologies introduction impacts favorably LED packaging materials market

LYON, FRANCE: The LED packaging industry is moving toward further cost reduction and new technologies including Flip Chip and Chip Scale Package (CSP), says Yole Développement (Yole) in its latest report on packaging for LED: LED Packaging Technology and Market Trends 2014.

These market and technology trends directly impact the LED & advanced packaging industry and its supply chain, especially at the material and equipment levels: whereas the equipment market enters in an infernal cycle, the materials market for LED packaging confirms its growth.

“The LED packaging materials market, including packaging substrates, phosphors, encapsulation and primary optic materials, ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) protection diodes, will grow by a factor x1.5 during the period 2014-2019," said Pars Mukish, activity leader, LED & Compound Semiconductors at Yole Développement.

Be shocked by new Mouser high voltage technology site

TAIWAN: Mouser Electronics Inc. announced the introduction of their new High Voltage Components Technology site.

Mouser's new technology site provides developers with the resources they need to learn about the latest advances in this popular technology segment, including the newest products and the critical importance of keeping safety in mind when doing high voltage designs.

The new High Voltage Components Technology site, available on Mouser.com, contains valuable resources for developers interested in learning about high voltage design and how to choose the correct components.

Many applications have traditionally used 600V to 1500V as the nominal operating voltage because these higher voltages allow a more efficient transmission of electrical power over long distances. When dealing with voltages of 600V or higher, it's important to consider the right use of design, construction, and safety guidelines including the proper spacing of electrical equipment, the use of more robust safety procedures, and the proper use of the correct test procedures.

The Technology section provides an easy to understand overview of this field, including how high voltage is defined differently depending upon the applications field and the importance of designing with safety in mind. The Articles section discusses important considerations when designing at high voltages, including Design Guidelines for Optocoupler Safety. The Technical Resources section lists videos and application notes that discuss device selection and application considerations for high voltage designs.

Pasternack receives 4-Star honors from Raytheon’s supplier excellence program

IRVINE, USA: Pasternack Enterprises Inc., an industry-leading manufacturer and supplier of RF, microwave and millimeter wave products, has been awarded the 4-Star Supplier Excellence Award by Raytheon’s Integrated Defense Systems (IDS) business. This is the second consecutive year that Pasternack has been honored with a Supplier Excellence Award from Raytheon IDS.

Raytheon’s Integrated Defense Systems business instituted the annual Supplier Excellence Awards program to recognize suppliers who have provided outstanding service and partnership in exceeding customer requirements. Award candidates are judged on certain criteria, including overall quality, on-time delivery and demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement. Pasternack was one of 87 companies recognized by Raytheon’s Integrated Defense Systems business for 4-Star honors.

“We are proud recipients of our second consecutive Raytheon Supplier Excellence Award and are honored to be recognized by such an esteemed organization,” says Terry Jarnigan, CEO of Pasternack. “We clearly see that our commitment and contribution to the overall success of Raytheon’s programs over the past 30+ years has been mutually beneficial and we look forward to years of success to come.”

Monday, September 29, 2014

Yale University and Leica Microsystems to establish Microscopy Center of Excellence

WEST HAVEN, USA & WETZLAR, GERMANY: On Monday, October 20, 2014, Yale University West Campus will open the doors to a new microscopy Center of Excellence made possible through a partnership with Leica Microsystems.

Housed in a newly created core facility, the Leica Center of Excellence at Yale West Campus will provide scientists with access to cutting-edge imaging tools to resolve sub-cellular structures and forward scientific discoveries.

This relationship will afford researchers access to expert technical and applications support, along with instrumentation which Leica Microsystems will continuously update with the latest technology. In addition, Yale and Leica Microsystems will collaborate in the development of novel imaging technologies.

Through this partnership, Leica Microsystems gains access to world-class scientists and the latest developments in research applications. Yale and Leica Microsystems will work together to test prototype products and share ideas on how to improve imaging workflows.

"We are extremely excited to embark on this journey of discovery with Yale University as our first such partnership in the USA," said Doug Reed, GM of Leica Microsystems North America. "This co-operation will provide some of the best scientific minds access to imaging tools previously out of reach, plus allow Leica Microsystems ready access to new ideas from outstanding scientific leaders, which will be used to guide development of tomorrow's innovations."

RS Components enters in agreement with Adapteva

BEIJING, CHINA: RS Components has signed a significant distribution agreement with Adapteva, producer of the innovative Epiphany multicore co-processor and developer of the popular Parallella-16 board.

The partnership will bring the Parallella board directly to customers in Europe and Asia, which comprise almost 50% of the Parallella community, and will enable quicker, easier access to this energy-efficient technology.

Parallella was introduced to the industry through a highly successful Kickstarter crowdsourcing campaign with the objective of democratising access to supercomputing. The open-source project now has thousands of users around the globe in one of the industry's most active programming communities.

The open-source single board computer includes the Epiphany III 16 core co-processor on the board alongside the Xilinx Zynq Z7000 dual core ARM processor. The credit card sized device can be used as a development platform, embedded engine, teaching platform or research tool and is easily scalable by clustering boards to create a mini-supercomputer for advanced parallel computing applications.

FCI announces inaugural participation at Ceatec Japan 2014

SINGAPORE: FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, will feature its latest solutions and applications at Ceatec Japan from Oct. 7-11, 2014.

Held annually at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba prefecture, Ceatec Japan acts as a forum for conferences showcasing the latest achievements and trends. It also provides indispensable information for the lifestyles and societies of the future.

FCI will feature its innovative consumer interconnect solutions at the exhibition. These include the 1.2mm Wire-to-Board connectors, FFC/FPC range of products, Universal Contacts & Customized Interconnect solutions. A showcase containing various consumer devices/wearable products will be displayed at the booth.

FCI will also display its multiple categories of products which include interconnect solutions from High Speed Backplane, High Speed I/O, Power, Storage and Commercial.

Major RF supplier chooses ClassOne spray solvent tools

KALISPELL, USA: ClassOne Technology announced a five-unit order for its next generation of batch-processing spray solvent tools, the Trident SST.

The new tools were sold to one of the industry’s leading manufacturers of RF Power semiconductors where they will be used primarily in photoresist stripping.

“This customer was particularly interested in the advanced Deluge technology used in the new Trident SSTs,” said Win Carpenter, ClassOne’s executive VP. “They are looking forward to these tools providing a faster, more efficient rinse, as well as a reduction.

Utilizing Deluge technology, the Trident SSTs deliver a continuous, uniform cascade of solvent or rinse water instead of using spray nozzles, and this dramatically enhances process performance. The elegant and robust chemical delivery process cuts chemical consumption, shortens process time and can also lower defect counts.

In addition to increasing productivity, the new SSTs also significantly reduce capital expense, since Trident systems are roughly half the cost of competitive spray solvent tools.

Friday, September 26, 2014

Newark element14 announces exclusive North American distribution agreement with BLOCK

CHICAGO, USA: Newark element14, a high-service distributor of technology products and engineering solutions, has announced an exclusive distribution agreement with BLOCK, a long-standing presence in the field of coiled products. Newark element14 was identified as a key player in BLOCK’s effort to expand its footprint in the Americas.

“We’re proud that BLOCK has partnered with us on this exclusive distribution agreement,” said Jimmy Seifert, SVP, product, supplier, asset and pricing at Newark element14. “They’re executing an aggressive sales engagement plan in North America and conducting regional sales training initiatives which will allow us to make a wider variety of products and solutions more accessible to customers in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico.”

“We are thrilled to be establishing our relationship with Newark element14,” said Paul Ganvik, North American sales manager, BLOCK. “We’ve worked together successfully with Premier Farnell in other regions, and we’re confident this partnership will lead to success in North America moving forward.”

The BLOCK brand stands for reliability and on-time delivery, which aligns well with Newark element14’s same-day ship guarantee – the industry’s strongest dependability promise.

BLOCK has invested heavily in in-house production facilities which, together with its increasingly powerful development center, enable fast customization and product redevelopment in addition to a large off-the-shelf product range. The company has four offices in Europe and the United States.

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Newark element14 launches Arduino UNO click shield and accessories for Atmel Xplained

CHICAGO, USA: Newark element14 has launched the Arduino UNO Click Shield, along with a host of click boards and accessories, for the Atmel SAMA5D3 Xplained, a low-cost, rapid prototyping and evaluation platform featuring the ARM Cortex A5-based SAMA5D36 microprocessor.

These accessories feature low-power operation and a small footprint, ideal for quick and easy implementation with development kits.

The Arduino UNO Click Shield fits onto the ATSAMA5D3-XPLD board using the common Arduino-compatible interface headers. It also provides two microBUS interfaces to connect with any click board from manufacturer MikroElectronika.

Click boards are function-specific add-on modules with a common interface - four of which are launching today: the ADC, Bluetooth, SHT11 Environmental Sensor and Thermocouple. With no hardware configuration required, these boards will revolutionize the way new functionalities can be added to development boards like the SAMA5D3.

Additional add-on boards include a Wi-Fi dongle, which connects via USB and an LCD8000 display and an interface board offering an 18-bit touchscreen at 480x272 resolution.

The μC/Probe from Micrium is also available for use with the SAMA5D3. As an easy-to-use Windows application, the μC/Probe is designed to read and write the memory of any embedded target processor during run time, which then maps memory data to virtual graphic controls on a host computer. It is available in both basic and pro editions.

Supported by a 250,000-member strong element14 Community, customers can also benefit from direct access to engineers worldwide as well as other experts in legislation and more.  Virtual field application engineers and community experts are available to support users with up-to-date technical information. 24/7 ordering is also available on the Community.

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

gridComm launches intelligent, cloud-based street lighting solution

SINGAPORE: Cities around the globe spend as much as 40 percent of their energy budgets on street lighting. Lighting accounts for almost 6 percent of global CO2 greenhouse gas emissions. What if there was a way to both cut costs and drive down emissions?

Enter gridComm, a provider of power line communications (PLC) solutions that enable the transformation of the power grid into a smart grid. Today, gridComm announced the launch of its Intelligent Street Lighting Solution.

Field-proven for robustness and reliability, gridComm's Intelligent Street Lighting Solution serves as the cornerstone in the building of a 'Smart City' with a reduced carbon footprint. Based on the company's GC2200, a next generation OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) PLC transceiver, gridComm's Intelligent Street Lighting Solution transforms street lighting into energy-aware, remotely managed and monitored networks.

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

ANADIGICS launches GaN line amplifiers with industry's highest output power levels

WARREN, USA: ANADIGICS Inc. has introduced two new high-power GaN line amplifiers for CATV systems.

The ACA2455 and ACA2456 line amplifiers support full DOCSIS 3.1 bandwidth, operating up to 1.2 GHz, while supporting legacy bands down to 50 MHz. With world-class output power, these line amplifiers enable Node+0 system architectures without active components downstream of the fiber node.

"Innovation that enables reliably superior product performance has always been part of ANADIGICS' DNA," said Tim Laverick, senior VP of Infrastructure Products at ANADIGICS.

"Our new line amplifiers exemplify this fundamental drive by combining ANADIGICS' field-proven, highly linear GaAs technology with a high-power GaN output stage, delivering the industry's highest output power over the full DOCSIS 3.1 frequency band. Manufacturers are able to leverage these performance and reliability advantages to develop new solutions that enable MSOs to quickly deploy next-generation fiber-to-the-node networks."

With Node+0 configurations, fiber is run deeper into the network, eliminating the need for downstream RF amplifiers. Node+0 is the natural evolution of node splitting and the shift to "fiber deep" architectures as MSOs continue to seek out new ways to increase system bandwidth by shrinking service groups to reduce the number of homes served by each node.

This architecture also significantly simplifies network design, reduces maintenance costs, and decreases deployment time for new build outs. As demand for faster data speeds accelerates, the total number of deployed nodes is expected to increase by up to 1000% according to some MSO estimates, thereby increasing the total number of available sockets for these unique high-power line amplifiers.

National FAA certification conference features talks by LDRA and Logicircuit

WIRRAL, UK & ALPHARETTA, USA: Cosponsors LDRA and Logicircuit present talks at the National Systems, Software, and Airborne Electronic Hardware Conference, held this week in Los Angeles, CA from September 23-25, 2014.

The conference provides a forum for all commercial aerospace stakeholders to discuss the policy and technology underlying flight safety. This year’s conference promises to have heightened relevance due to the significant evolution in aircraft policies at the systems, software and hardware levels over the past three years since the conference was last held.

LDRA, the leader in DO-178C and ARP 4754A standards compliance, automated software verification, source code analysis and test tools, has worked alongside flight systems suppliers for over forty years, helping many of them achieve even the most rigorous Level A certification.

Dr. Mike Hennell, founder of LDRA, helps open the National Systems, Software, and Airborne Electronic Hardware Conference talking about LDRA’s significant role as a facilitator of the DO-178 standard over the past 25 years. As a leader in DO-178B verification, LDRA played a formative role in evolving the methodologies essential for DO-178C compliance.

Most power efficient drivers for 12-, 14- and 16-bit A/D converters unveiled

NORWOOD, USA: Analog Devices Inc. introduced a family of low-power rail-to-rail amplifiers for high-speed data acquisition systems that require exceptional accuracy, precision and power efficiency.

For system designers who are looking to achieve full datasheet specifications from high resolution A/D converters, the ADA4805-1 (single) and ADA4805-2 (dual) amplifiers provide the only solution with quiescent current as low as 495µA.

The amplifiers’ Dynamic Power Scaling (DPS) feature allows users to dynamically manage the power consumption by shutting-down the amplifier between analog-to-digital converter samples. This further reduces by up to 90 percent the power consumption — with no performance degradation —when compared to similar solutions. Watch this video to learn more about the industry’s most power efficient A/D converter drivers.

The 100-MHz ADA4805-1 and ADA4805-2 amplifiers achieve a high slew rate of 160 V/μs, low noise (5.9 nV/√Hz at 100 kHz) and low distortion (−102 dBc/−116 dBc HD2/HD3 at 100 kHz) while consuming only 1.5 mW of power.

The amplifiers are designed for power-sensitive portable and battery-powered data acquisition devices, such as handheld or portable test and measurement instruments, battery-powered industrial equipment and remote environmental monitoring devices. They can also be used to reduce power and thermal dissipation in high-density applications such as cellular base stations and medical imaging equipment.

CTTS selects Fujikura 70S splicer for ECOC FTTX Zone training demos

CANNES, FRANCE & LONDON, UK: Fujikura Europe has announced that its best-selling fusion splicer, the 70S, is being used by longstanding partner CTTS in its training area at ECOC’s FTTX Zone.

CTTS is a leading recognised international centre of excellence for the provision of training in the Digital Industries sector and each year manages and organises the FTTX Zone at ECOC. Fujikura is the CTTS preferred partner for fusion splicers and has supported the company for over 21 years, recently delivering 70S splicers to train the JT Global Gigabit Field Force in Jersey.

“We have had a long and productive relationship with Fujikura and are pleased to once again be using its equipment in our demonstrations at ECOC in the FTTX Zone. We hope to see lively engagement with industry professionals at this year’s event,” said Martyn Cook, Group chairman, CTTS.

The 70S has a rugged construction design to provide the highest reliability by resisting shock, rain and dust, allowing it to withstand a 30 inch drop test on six sides. It also features a wind protector and a tube heater which has been developed for quicker splicing cycles and to reduce the number of operational steps. The unit also includes a high-resolution LCD monitor, powerful Li-ion battery for longer operation time and built in videos for on-the-go training.

Develop designs faster with Pmod adapter for Arduino's platforms

SAN JOSE, USA: Achieve rapid prototyping with a wide range of production-quality sensors using the Pmod-to-Arduino adapter (MAXREFDES72#) from Maxim Integrated Products Inc.

The MAXREFDES72# allows any board with Pmod connections to plug easily into Arduino-compatible microcontroller platforms. Using industry-leading Maxim components, this adapter is ideal for quickly creating Internet of Things designs, and allows for more convenient accessibility to a broader range of digital processors and applications.

The Pmod form factor has long allowed integration of professional-grade peripherals into engineering prototypes, especially on FPGA-based platforms. The MAXREFDES72# bridges the gap between the Pmod and Arduino-compatible form factors, thus opening a new audience of developers using Arduino-compatible microcontroller boards.

The result is greater accessibility to quality components and faster, easier designs. Maxim offers 15 single function peripheral modules and 13 reference design boards with Pmod connectors, and now each is easily compatible with any Arduino-compatible development board.

Monday, September 22, 2014

element14 announces winners of Inductive Sensing design challenge

CHICAGO, USA: element14 has selected the winning designs in its Inductive Sensing Design Challenge, featuring the world’s first inductance-to-digital converter from Texas Instruments.

Belgian designer Sammy Peiren was named the Grand Prize Winner for his USB microphone concept, and Dutch designer Elbert Kreukniet was named Community Choice Winner for his wireless metal detector. The two designs stood out for introducing new possibilities for inductive sensing, a contactless, magnet-free sensing technology.

“We are always amazed at the level of talent and creativity within our 250,000-member community of engineers,” said Dianne Kibbey, global head of community at element14. “With this particular challenge, Sammy and Elbert stood out for executing projects that not only shed new light on what can be accomplished with inductive sensing, but embodied our commitment to the Internet of Things and innovation as well.”

Peiren’s USB microphone uses the LDC1000 to detect sound waves of higher densities with greater sensitivity and dynamic range. Kreukniet’s wireless metal detector pairs an in-app smartphone display with the LDC1000 module for depth adjustment and targeted positioning, leveraging Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communication for more precise metal detection.

AEM releases 1206 size wire-in-air surface mount fuses

SAN DIEGO, USA: AEM Components introduced the AF1206, a new AirMatrix fuse series with the compact EIA 1206 size. The Wire-in-Air structure of the AirMatrix design allows for high voltage ratings and high inrush current withstanding capability in a compact package size.

AEM's new AF1206 fuse is a market leader with current ratings up to 15A, making this series an ideal solution for a broad range of applications; ultrabook, PCs, battery packs, LCD panels, DC/DC converters, DC fans, auto electronics, telecommunication and network devices.

AF1206 Wire-in-Air features:
* Extremely thin fuse body (1.3mm max) ideal for space constraint applications.
* Fast acting clearing characteristics at 250% overload current level.
* High I2t ideal for applications with inrush transients.
* High surge-withstanding capabilities in comparison to other EIA 1206 chip fuses.
* High voltage and interrupting ratings.
* Operating temperature range: -55 degrees C to +125 degrees C (with de-rating).
* Halogen-free, lead free, RoHS compliant and UL recognized.

HUBER+SUHNER provides low profile MIMO roof-top antenna for easy upgrade to 4G/LTE

GERMANY: HUBER+SUHNER further extended its proven portfolio of SENCITY Rail roof-top antennas with low profile MIMO products. The new SENCITY Rail MIMO antenna perfectly fits for the European market.

Using this antenna with just 40 mm height particularly double-decker trains or trains normally travelling in tunnels with tight gauges can be upgraded to the 4G/LTE standard.

This omni-directional antenna consists of two broadband radiating elements for 2G/3G/4G mobile communication in a single compact housing. It supports the frequency range from 790 MHz to 2700 MHz and therefore works with all European mobile communication networks.

The product is particularly interesting for system integrators and rail vehicle manufacturers who are seeking to establish high-data-rate applications, such as on-board internet, CCTV or repeater systems in the train. Thanks to the new SENCITY Rail MIMO antenna, they can achieve a far higher data rate compared to standard antennas.

Customers who have already installed SENCITY Rail low profile antennas benefit from a clever solution: since they use the same mounting scheme, existing antennas can be replaced by this new antenna with minimal effort. This allows system integrators to upgrade the train to MIMO technology quickly and easily.

4DSP delivers high-performance A/D-D/A in stackable format with FMC144

AUSTIN, USA: 4DSP announces the release of a new analog-to-digital (A/D) / digital-to-analog (D/A) FPGA Mezzanine Card (FMC) card for multi-channel data acquisition and high-speed signal processing and recording.

The FMC144 is an FMC daughter card that provides four 16-bit A/D channels with speeds up to 370 MSPS and four 16-bit D/A channels up to 2.5 GSPS. It offers front panel analog I/O access and can be used in a conduction-cooled environment.

This module delivers high-bandwidth connectivity for calculation-heavy FPGA-based applications including beamforming and direction finding. The FMC144 is very well-suited for multi-antenna arrays used in the telecommunications industry where high performance is required.

The factory default configuration of the FMC144 is as a standard FMC module with a high-pin count (HPC) connector on the bottom of the card, but the card can also be configured as a stackable module with HPC connectors on both the top and bottom sides.

Stacking multiple FMCs enables higher channel density and creates opportunities to expand functionality while maintaining a small hardware footprint in applications where space is limited such as in aircraft instrumentation and wireless telecom equipment.

EMCORE intros dual micro-ITLA tunable laser for coherent optical networking apps

ALBUQUERQUE, USA: EMCORE Corp. announced the introduction of the dual micro-Integrable tunable laser assembly (ITLA) for the coherent market, which has begun customer sampling for qualification.

EMCORE expects the Dual micro-ITLA to be commercially available in the first calendar quarter of 2015.

The Dual micro-ITLA integrates EMCORE's proprietary cooled External Cavity Laser (ECL) technology in a new smaller package that offers all the benefits of the micro-ITLA in a form-factor that requires 25 percent less space than two single micro-ITLA's combined, while delivering the same level of performance.

EMCORE's ECL ITLA technology has been the most widely-used tunable laser source for high-speed 100 and 400 gigabit per second (Gbps) coherent transmission systems, thanks to its narrow linewidth, low noise and excellent frequency accuracy. The smaller form-factor and reduced power consumption of the new Dual micro-ITLA enables customers to design even higher densities into their coherent systems.

Taiwan manufacturers revisit Istanbul to showcase innovative LED lighting solutions

TAIPEI, TAIWAN: The Green Trade Project Office under Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs is set to return to Istanbul for the third exhibition event of its 2014 Green Light campaign, leading a delegation of exhibitors to participate once again in the LED and LED Lighting Exhibition, scheduled to be held on September 25-28 at the Istanbul Expo Center (IFM).

A 'Taiwan Innovative LED Lighting Product Pavilion' is established for the fair in the Hall 10 (Booth B-630) to showcase a variety of LED lighting solutions offered by Taiwanese companies.

Li-Yen Ma, Division chief of the Integrated Marketing Division at the Green Trade Project Office, said: "Increasing efficiency has been one of the goals listed in Turkey's energy policies for the past decade. LED lighting products, with their energy-saving, versatile-for-design features, are ideal solutions to accommodate the policy trend and market demand.

"Taiwanese companies have years of expertise in LED manufacturing, and the industry is now capable of creating a wide selection of products ranging from LED components to completed light fixtures. We believe visitors will easily find the most suitable products for them among the various product lines."

Members of the delegation this year include the world-leading automotive lighting product maker TYC Brother Industrial; industry veteran Hergy Lighting Technology; LED chip and component manufacturer Genesis Photonics; LED driver maker Billion Electric; and Gaintronics Technology. All companies will present their latest technology innovations.

A variety of LED light fixtures of unique design are also on display at the 'Taiwan Innovative LED Lighting Product Pavilion.' Winner of the 2013 Taiwan Green Classics Award and iF Product Award, 'BE Light' from QisDesign features a special hinge design, which allows the table light to be folded down flat to a minimum height of 1.8 cm when not in use.

Different from the sharp outline of 'BE Light,' QisDesign's 'Flamenca' is created with an exquisite wave silhouette. Taiwan's leading LED maker Everlight Electronics showcases its award-winning LED Bulb and the dimmable Wing-Fun Desk Lamp. The waterproof 'Wish Lamp' from COCOKASA Lighting is ideal for indoor and outdoor use. 'LED Blocky Lights' of Ukin Technology features great flexibility of usage.

'The One' LED desk lamp offered by Just Power Integrated Technology can be detached, and works as a flashlight in an emergency. The portable 'LED Lamp - Angel' by Home Resource Industrial, a winner of the Red Dot Design Award, can be easily switched on by a simple touch.

Speck releases Candyshell cases for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus

SAN MATEO, USA: Speck, the award-winning leader of mighty slim protective cases and covers for smartphones, tablets, and laptops, has announced the availability of iPhone 6 cases and iPhone 6 Plus cases.

The line up includes two brand new cases designed by Speck, MightyShell and MightyShell Clear, its most protective cases yet. MightyShell harnesses 2x military-grade protection into a surprisingly slim profile making it the best defense for the slimmer-than-ever iPhone 6.

Speck is also unveiling its iconic CandyShell, CandyShell Inked, CandyShell Grip, and CandyShell Card, all featuring military-grade, bulk-free protection for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.

MightyShell and CandyShell both provide the bulk-free protection for which Speck is known and have been carefully designed to complement the new, slimmer profile of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. The raised bezel hugs the iPhone's new ion-strengthened glass for extra screen protection. It also acts as a buffer between hard surfaces and the newly raised camera lens on both iPhones.

Friday, September 19, 2014

RS Components stocking newly branded 'Industrial by Duracell' alkaline battery range

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA: RS Components is stocking the newly named and new-look 'Industrial by Duracell' high-performance battery range.

Formerly marketed under the Procell name, the market-leading range of Duracell industrial alkaline batteries now builds on the company's well-known brand name, while emphasising its target use within the professional trade.

Designed specifically to meet the specialist needs of professional and industrial applications, the batteries have been manufactured to meet IEC 60086 and ISO 9000 standards and are designed to deliver high performance in high-power-drain devices. In addition, Duracell is making efficiency and capacity improvements to ensure continued competitiveness and delivery.

The 'Industrial by Duracell' batteries are reliable and flexible and provide power solutions for a wide range of applications, and even after seven years of storage. The batteries operate at temperatures from -20degree Celsius up to +54 degree Celsius.

The 'Industrial by Duracell' batteries, available in the standard AA, AAA, C, D (1.5V) and PP3 (9V) sizes, are now in stock and available from RS Components globally.

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Switchcraft intros sealed unmated power jacks

CHICAGO, USA: Switchcraft is excited to announce the newest addition to their already extensive line of power jacks, the Sealed when unmated high amperage power jack.

New sealed versions of this jack are sealed even when the jack is not mated to a sealed plug. The jack is rated to IP68, NEMA 250 6P even when not mated.

Dust caps are available so that debris does not collect in the jack when not in use. The sturdy metal housing provides reliability in any setting and the internal circuits are made to the same quality standards users have come to expect from the Switchcraft line of products.

INNO Instrument launches world’s most advanced series of fusion splicers

UK: INNO Instrument, the leader in fusion splicing devices, has announced that it will be launching its new, View product range at this year’s ECOC in Cannes.

The new range is the most advanced on the market with the best user display viewing experience a fusion splicer can offer, whilst maximizing the performance features the market demands. The View range has three different variations based on your splicing requirements and are set to become the new industry standard for core-alignment and clad-alignment splicing in the telecommunications market.

The products boast the best performance in clear fibre profiling and low splicing loss due to their new unrivalled display viewing experience. Each product has a 5” high-resolution colour LCD touch screen with user-friendly intuitive Graphic User Interface (GUI) offering large and clear fibre images to users.

By double-tapping the screen, users can zoom in and out of images to the world’s highest magnification of 520x, whilst providing LED lighting so when working in dark environments users can ensure accuracy of splicing. Along with improved splice and heat speeds, the View series has the best multitasking performance due to its improved operating system and lower power consumption and is more power efficient delivering higher performance per watt.

Vicor to demo versatility of power component design methodology at Electronica 2014

ANDOVER, USA: Vicor Corp. announced its participation at Electronica 2014, the international trade fair for electronic components, systems and applications hosted in Munich, Germany, November 11-14.

At the event, Vicor will announce and exhibit the newest additions to its portfolio of power component products, spanning the complete power chain from the power source to point of load.

At Vicor's booth within the conference's Semiconductor Hall (Hall A5 Booth 237), attendees can meet with Vicor experts to learn more about the company's solutions for a wide range of applications requiring high power density, high efficiency, and improved design flexibility.

New products exhibited in Vicor's booth will include front-end power conversion components and point-of-load power conversion products in the Converter housed in Package (ChiP) and System in Package (SiP) form factors. Attendees can also learn more about Vicor's online PowerBench design tool suite.

Pasternack releases brand new 2014 RF product guide

IRVINE, USA:  Pasternack Enterprises, Inc., an industry-leading manufacturer and supplier of RF, microwave and millimeter wave products, releases their 2014 RF product guide.

The company’s latest 264 page catalog contains thousands of in-stock Pasternack products such as RF cable assemblies, an expanded portfolio of RF amplifiers, 60 GHz systems and modules and hundreds of other passive and active RF components, all available for same-day shipping worldwide.

To coincide with the launch of the company’s 2014 RF catalog, Pasternack has also introduced 24/7 support to assist customers all over the world to place orders, request quotes and answer questions around the clock.

This new catalog contains a total of 30 product categories with greatly expanded lines of amplifiers, cable assemblies, waveguides and many other passive RF components. Other improved features inside the new Pasternack catalog include an updated Adapter and Cable Assembly Matrix that allows the user to easily identify all available in-series and between-series configurations.

Pasternack’s new 2014 RF catalog contains a large concentration of new products recently added to the company’s product offering within the last 12 months. New additions include 60 GHz millimeter wave modules, systems and WR-15 antennas, as well as a large increase to the active RF amplifier lineup.

The company is rapidly growing their selection of active components such as low noise, broadband, limiting, high gain, high power, gain block and other hi-rel amplifiers. Additional new products include low PIM cable jumpers, power tappers, ferrite isolators and circulators, Wilkinson power dividers, low loss test cables and many others.

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Toshiba adds high-performance, ultra-compact white LEDs in 3535 package

IRVINE, USA: Toshiba America Electronic Components Inc. (TAEC) has extended its LETERAS family of white LEDs. The new TL1L3 series features ultra-compact devices that combine cost-effective gallium nitride-on-silicon (GaN-on-Si) chips with an industrial standard 3535 lens type package.

High-performance white LEDs are typically fabricated on expensive sapphire substrates using relatively small 100mm or 150mm wafers. Toshiba's LETERAS LEDs use a cost-effective GaN-on-Si process technology that allows GaN LEDs to be produced on 200mm silicon wafers, which lowers costs for manufacturers of general purpose and industrial LED lighting.  The integrated lenses in Toshiba's newest LEDs make them suitable for implementation in security lighting, road lights, LED bulbs, down lights, and more.

"White LEDs consume very little power and have long lives compared to incandescent light sources," stated Joseph Tso, business development manager for TAEC's optoelectronics group.  "These two factors are major contributors to LEDs gaining widespread adoption in the general purpose lighting market, as well as a wide array of specialized lighting applications.  LEDs are estimated to make up 53 percent of the global lighting market over the next few years, and the time is now to transition from standard lighting. Our LETERAS family gives designers the flexibility to make this transition – no matter what the end application."

Devices in the TL1L3 series of 1.0W LEDs are housed in a 3.5mm x 3.5mm package, with a height (including the lens) of just 2.42mm.  Despite their small size, the LEDs deliver up to 145 lumens (typ), depending on the correlated color temperature (CCT).

The new TL1L3 LED series features seven devices that offer color temperatures from 2700K to 6500K. Minimum color rendering index (Ra) ratings of up to 80 contribute to natural-looking lighting.  A low typical forward voltage (VF) of just 2.85V (at a forward current of 350mA) helps to keep power consumption at a minimum.

ZAGG announces full product lineup for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus

SALT LAKE CITY, USA: ZAGG Inc., a leading mobile device accessories company with a brand portfolio that includes ZAGG and iFrogz, announced a full range of smartphone accessories for the soon-to-be-released Apple iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.

The lineup includes updated versions of several award-winning products from ZAGG's categories, including screen protection, audio and power.

ZAGG's InvisibleShield line, the industry-standard protective films for handheld mobile devices, will be available for the launch of the Apple iPhone 6. All InvisibleShield products for the iPhone 6 line feature new EZ Apply tabs for quick, easy application, and come with a lifetime guarantee.

Pickering with latest reed relays at electronica 2014

UK: Pickering Electronics are manufacturers of high quality reed relays for instrumentation and automatic test equipment (ATE), high voltage switching, low thermal EMF, direct drive from CMOS, RF switching and other specialist applications.

The relays are available in surface mount, single-in-line (SIL), dual-in-line (DIL) and many other popular packages.

Pickering manufactures reed relays for instrumentation applications using only the highest quality materials. It is certified to the ISO 9001-2008 and audited by the British Standards Institution.

Pickering relays are subjected to continuous inspection during the manufacturing process and after a strenuous thermal cycling routine are 100 percent tested for all operating parameters on ATE and other specialized equipment. All ATE test results are archived and used for Statistical Process Control.

Toshiba unveils 20-MP CMOS image sensor for high-end smartphones and mobile handsets

SAN JOSE, USA: Toshiba America Electronic Components Inc. (TAEC) has announced its newest 1.12-micron CMOS image sensor (CIS) for high-end mobile handsets and smartphones with 20-megapixel (MP) resolution.

With an optical size of 1/2.4 inch, the T4KA7 sensor enables development of camera modules with a z-height of 6mm or less to meet consumer demand for thinner, lighter mobile devices.

The new sensor joins Toshiba's recently announced 8MP and 13MP 1.12-micron back-side illuminated CIS solutions, which enable low-power, high-performance image capture and video recording for handheld mobile devices.

The T4KA7 employs high-speed circuit technology that delivers a frame rate of 22 frames per second (fps) at full-resolution image capture – an improvement of 83 percent compared to the company's previous 20MP sensor.

Navitas unveils Ultanium line of Li batteries

WOODRIDGE, USA: Navitas Systems LLC, a leading provider of energy-enabled system solutions, energy storage products, and power electronics for commercial, industrial and government/military customers, unveiled at the annual industry conference "The Battery Show" a new product family of Lithium lead acid replacement batteries called Ultanium.

Designed and assembled in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Ultanium highlights Navitas' newest advancements, a lithium battery which is in the same size as popular military and commercial/industrial lead acid batteries, and is designed to work with existing lead acid chargers; offering a seamless drop-in replacement.

The first batteries of this new product line are targeted at high volume lead acid batteries in the military and commercial/industrial market segments.

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Newark element14 launches RIoTboard adapter with multiple accessory I/O interface

CHICAGO, USA: Newark element14 has launched the RIoTboard Adapter, enabling new interfacing and connectivity to a variety of accessory types that do not natively interface to the RIoTboard, vastly expanding its functionality.

The RIoTboard Adapter offers users the ability to connect accessories from a wide range of prominent accessory types, such as Arduino Shields, MikroE Clicks, Pmods and Raspberry Pi accessories. This offers a new realm of opportunity to the community’s engineers for expansion on their current practices with RIoTboards.

Additionally, a number of add-on boards are available for prototyping, including the Wi-Fi dongle which connects via USB and the LCD8000-43T-EX1 display, offering a resistive touchscreen display with 480 x 272 resolution, connecting to the on board on an LCD interface. Other possible accessories include Bluetooth, ADC, Sensor and Thermocouple add-on boards.

Users of the RIoTboard Adapter can access direct support from the 250,000 members on the element14 Community. Virtual field application engineers and community experts are available 24-hours per day, answering questions and providing up-to-date technical information.

The RIoTboard Adapter is priced at $14.99 with same-day shipping from Newark element14.

Teledyne LeCroy intros 500 MHz WaveJet Touch portable oscilloscope

CHESTNUT RIDGE, USA: Teledyne LeCroy introduced the WaveJet Touch oscilloscope, providing an unprecedented combination \of performance and price — 500 MHz for $5,000.

The availability of a touch screen as well as powerful debug tools and advanced triggering is unique among oscilloscopes with comparable specifications and pricing. Built on the popular WaveJet 300 oscilloscope platform, the WaveJet Touch is available in two models with 350 MHz or 500 MHz bandwidth, four channels, up to 5 Mpts of memory at 2 GS/s, and a 7.5" touch screen display.

The WaveJet Touch offers the same great debug tools, connectivity, portability, and ease of use as its predecessor, the WaveJet 300A while adding a wide variety of new features and toolset enhancements to shorten debug time. Intricate signals can be acquired with ease by combining a long capture time with a variety of complex triggers, including triggers for I2C, SPI, and UART.

Digital low-pass, high-pass, and simple moving average filtering permit easy isolation of signals of interest. The choice of normal, peak detect, average, and high resolution acquisition modes provides flexibility when acquiring waveforms. Pass/fail mask and measurement testing enables deeper analysis and performs characterization and validation testing with ease.

Scroll back in time to view previous waveforms and isolate anomalies using Replay mode. Standard GPIB, LAN, and USB device ports provide flexibility for remote control. All of this comes in a small form factor and lightweight design, making it easy to carry and use anywhere.

Element Six selected by European Consortium to develop ultrafast pulse disk lasers

SANTA CLARA, USA: Element Six, the world leader in synthetic diamond supermaterials and member of the De Beers Group of Companies, today announced it has been selected by the European Commission's Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development to help develop a new ultrafast pulse disk laser.

The new laser will be designed with high average output power to increase productivity and precision in micromachining of transparent materials. As part of the three year project titled "Ultrafast High-Average Power Ti:Sapphire Thin-Disk Oscillators and Amplifiers" (TiSa:TD), Element Six will further develop its low-loss, high purity single crystal chemical vapor deposition (CVD) diamond material to rapidly conduct heat off a titanium sapphire (TiSa) thin-disk, which will be used as the laser gain material. These developments will include increasing the areas available to Element Six customers.

Currently, the most powerful industrial "ultrafast" lasers operate in the picosecond range, which offers sufficient performance for micromachining metals. However, the consortium aims to develop a new femtosecond laser system that allows extremely high precision with higher powers than previously achieved, in order to increase productivity for the micromachining of transparent materials such as glass and ceramics, commonly used in smartphones and tablets.

Specifically, collaborators on this project are working to design two high-average power ultrafast TiSa thin-disk laser systems, one amplifier system using chirped pulses to obtain high-energy pulses, and one high-power oscillator to achieve high repetition rates. Both will have a maximum average output power of at least 200 W at a pulse duration of well below 100 femtoseconds.

To achieve these goals, TiSa will be used as the laser crystal material, which is optimal for short pulse laser systems due to the broad bandwidth of its emission, yet lacks good thermal properties. To combat this challenge, Element Six will further develop its single crystal CVD diamond to be mounted to the TiSa as a heat spreader, improving its thermo-optical effects and allowing it to be pumped at the required higher powers.

Fairview announces expansion of HF right angle adapters

ALLEN, USA: Fairview Microwave Inc., a pre-eminent supplier of on-demand microwave and RF components, released an expanded family of high frequency right angle adapters, widely used in the military and commercial sectors for communications and cellular applications.

Right angle adapters are commonly used in tight mechanical spaces where the bend radius of a coaxial cable would be exceeded. These adapters allow 90 degree turns in spaces too small to accommodate the bending of most coaxial cables, which also reduces too much strain on the cable in certain applications.

Lastly, right angle adapters provide more flexibility and efficiency when routing cables in a complex system. For example, cable lengths can be shortened with the use of right angle adapters.

FlexTech Alliance issues 2015 RFPs in flexible, printed electronics

SAN JOSE, USA: FlexTech Alliance has issued a dual-focused Request for Proposals (RFP) for flexible, printed product demonstrators (demos) and a functional electronic print leaflet.

FlexTech conducts a two-stage RFP process with pre-proposals due on October 22, 2014 and full proposals due in January 2015.  Funds for proposals ultimately selected are provided by the US Army Research Laboratory (ARL) and have a significant cost share by the proposing organization.

The primary goal of the open solicitation is to build several early stage demos which show the evolution of flexible electronics technology. A secondary goal is to highlight new concepts in materials, tools and prototype manufacturing. FlexTech is especially interested in receiving proposals that address a working demo in one or more of these market segments: power generation and energy storage, sensors, and communications.

The objective of the focused solicitation is to develop a functional electronic print leaflet incorporating a recordable audio message.

FlexTech Alliance anticipates making multiple awards for demos in the $250-$350K range, plus an equal cost share from the respondent. For the focused solicitation on functional electronic print, it will be up to the respondent to propose a budget.

Monday, September 15, 2014

LUMIX DMC-LX100 with micro four thirds MOS sensor and F1.7 LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMILUX lens

NEWARK, USA: Panasonic is proud to introduce the DMC-LX100 (LX100) with Micro Four Thirds High Sensitivity MOS Sensor for the 6th generation model of Panasonic's world-renowned LX high-end compact camera series.

The new LX100 is not just a successor to the DMC-LX7 but a jump-up that even inherits the DNA of DMC-LC1 - Panasonic's first full manual compact camera released in 2004.

The LX100 will be available at shop.panasonic.com and valued channel partners at the end of October.

To achieve even higher picture quality and multi-aspect capability, the LX100 incorporates the Micro Four Thirds High Sensitivity MOS sensor. It lets subjects stand out of the background impressively with a rich stereoscopic effect.

By keeping the resolution at 12.8-megapixels*1, the amount of light is enough to improve the S/N ratio, making it possible to capture clear image with minimum noise even when shot at high ISO. The Venus Engine is also newly developed to feature multiple noise reduction systems such as Multi Process NR, Random Filter and Aperture Filter, to achieve high color reproduction and high image quality with natural description.

A newly developed LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMILUX lens (35mm camera equivalent: 24-75mm) boasts F1.7-F2.8 high speed and high descriptiveness in detail and resolution to each corner. It also produces stunningly beautiful defocus together with the large MOS Sensor.

In addition, newly adopted 9-blade aperture diaphragm help produce bokeh with a smooth, circular shape. The versatile zoom range of 24-75mm (35mm camera equiv.) is suitable for wide-ranging photography to portraits. Notably, landscapes can be captured in dynamic 24mm ultra wide angle in any 4:3, 3:2 or 16:9 aspect thanks to the multi-aspect sensor.

The LX100 integrates a LVF (Live View Finder) with 2764K-dot equivalent high resolution and approx.100% color reproduction. This 16:9 Wide Screen LVF boasts approx.1.39x / 0.7x (35mm camera equiv.) magnification and 100% field of view. A variety of advanced functions are equipped with DMC-LX100 to spur potential of advanced photographers. It allows direct, intuitive control with dedicated rings and dials such as aperture ring, control ring, shutter speed dial or exposure compensation dial.

The LX100 is capable of smooth, high quality video recording not only in Full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 60p (NTSC) AVCHD Progressive (MPEG-4 / H.264) format or MP4 at 60p (NTSC) but also in 4K (QFHD 4K: 3840x2160, at 30 fps(NTSC) in MP4). With this 4K video recording capability, Panasonic is proposing a new way of photo creation called "4K Photo".

By grabbing a 3840x2160 8-megapixel equivalent image from the 4K video footage it is possible to capture the spur-of-the-moment which is often missed in still photography. This functionality is now easier with the newly added Hybrid Photography 4K Photo mode.

Fiber optic temperature solutions for generator and transformer

DRESDEN, GERMANY: Due to the growing demand of energy, existing power plants and grids are stretched to their limits. To ensure operational safety, critical factors such as temperature has to be monitored in generators and transformers. High power generators are often filled with hydrogen in order to cool effectively. Besides the heavily contaminated electromagnetic environment the risk for explosions is high.

Optocon AG in Germany offers a variety of fiber optic temperature measuring devices, fiber optic temperature sensors and accessories for temperature monitoring in oil-filled power transformers. You can enjoy all the benefits of the fiber optic measurement principle. The outer jacket of the fiber optic temperature sensor is made out of PTFE, at the sensor tip a GaAs-crystal (gallium arsenide) is attached.

The GaAs based technology is ideal for smart grid temperature monitoring in transformers. The sensor is completely non-conductive. Optocon's fiber optic temperature sensors offer complete immunity to RFI and EMI emissions with high temperature operating capability, intrinsic safety, and non-invasive use. The fiber optic temperature sensors are also designed to withstand harsh and corrosive environments.

Starting at a light wave length of 850nm/Kelvin. The measurement device contains a light source and a device for spectral detection of the band gap. These guarantee fast, repeatable and reproducible measurements.

Molex RJ45 PoE+ Gigabit magnetic jacks with LEDs available from Mouser

TAIWAN: Mouser Electronics, is now shipping the Ethernet Plus (PoE+) Gigabit Magnetic Jacks with LEDs from Molex. These Ethernet jacks are capable of delivering up to 30W of Power over Ethernet power to networked devices.

The Molex Ethernet Plus (PoE+) Gigabit Magnetic Jacks with LEDs, available from Mouser Electronics, supports integrated Power over Ethernet Plus magnetics according to most recent IEEE802.3at standard. It includes ganged 12-port (2x6) and 8-port (2x4) RJ45 modules.

The higher density of the ports translates into a lower placement costs. Gigabit magnetics is compatible with a variety of Gigabit Ethernet transceiver PHYs and is a proven parametric and EMI solution for the leading PHY vendors.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology that allows the transmission of both data and power over a standard Ethernet cable to networked devices. This eliminates the need for separate power supplies for each networked device. PoE+ is the new IEEE 802.3at Power over Ethernet standard.

It provides the capability for Ethernet switch makers to increase the supplied port power output to 30 watts and is meant to supersede the previous 15 watt 802.3af standard. The specification of this new 802.3at standard is backward compatible, supporting legacy 802.3af devices.

These Ethernet Plus ports are in a standard industry form factor which makes them a drop-in replacement for many existing RJ45 ports. Each port has two single color or bi-color LEDs and can be configured to support a full range of customer LED display requirements.

Applications for these Molex RJ45 Ethernet Plus ports include datacom and telecommunications, industrial networking, gigabit Ethernet switch and router applications, and consumer home networking applications.

Kickstart your design with industry’s first IoT-enabled LaunchPad and BoosterPack from TI

CHICAGO, USA: Newark element14 announced the launch of the Texas Instruments CC3200 Launchpad and CC3100 BoosterPack, a development platform and Wi-Fi device, created for faster and easier implementation of solutions for the Internet of Things (IoT).

The CC3200 LaunchPad kit is the industry’s first single-chip programmable microcontroller with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity suitable for applications in cloud connectivity, home automation, safety and security, health and fitness and metering. It features on-board emulation using an FTDI device and has temperature sensors, a 3-axis accelerometer, LEDs and push-buttons.

This SimpleLink-enabled wireless MCU, based on the high-performance ARM® Cortex –M4 , enables developers to create an entire application with a single IC. It comes with driver support and an SDK with more than 40 applications for Wi-Fi protocols, internet applications and MCU peripheral examples, together with user guides, design files and API guides.

Users can add Wi-Fi to an external host microcontroller with the CC3100 BoosterPack, a next-generation SimpleLink Wi-Fi device, for easy implementation of Internet connectivity including security, quick connection and cloud support.

This simplifies the creation of IoT solutions, bringing advantages such as reduced development time, lower costs, space-saving, ease of certification and less need for RF expertise. Moreover, it can run on two AA batteries for more than a year which, for the first time, brings embedded Wi-Fi capabilities to battery-operated end-equipment.

In addition, an advanced emulation accessory board – CC31XXEMUBOOST – is available for flashing updates to the CC3100BOOST, using the radio tool for RF performance evaluation and advanced FTDI debugging.

The Texas Instruments CC3200 Launchpad and CC3100 Boosterpack are now available from Newark element14, priced at $29.99 and $19.99. Quality data sheets and application notes can be found on the product pages together with a range of associated accessories and 24-hour live tech support is available for any queries five days a week.

Friday, September 12, 2014

Global Invacom and Entropic to design world's first hybrid fiber plus digital channel stacking switch (dCSS) multi-switch

AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS: Entropic and Global Invacom Group Ltd, an established R&D-led satellite communications (Sat Comms) equipment provider, announced a partnership to design the world's first hybrid plus digital Channel Stacking Switch (dCSS) Multi-switch solution based on Entropic's EN5520 second-generation dCSS integrated circuit (IC), the EN5520.

The new Multi-switch solution is targeted for installations that utilize a fiber backbone for distribution of direct to home (DTH) broadcast video in multi-dwelling unit (MDU) facilities. Receiving the multi GHz broadcast signal over fiber, the Entropic EN5520 can select up to 32 transponders and transmit across two coax outputs – which provides 32 User Bands of viewing or recording capacity.

This hybrid solution is ideal for server/client architectures where the server set-top box (with multiple tuners and demodulators) receives the input signal over a single-cable. The architecture provides operator flexibility, lowers Subscriber Acquisition Cost (SAC) and minimizes subscriber churn through opportunities to offer advanced services.

Silicon on insulator market worth $2,145.1 million by 2020

DALLAS, USA: According to a new market research report "Silicon on Insulator Market by Technology by Product (Optical SOI, SOI Transistor, MEMS, Image Sensor and Memory Devices), by Application (Automotive, Computing and Mobile) and Geography - Global Forecast to 2020", published by MarketsandMarkets, the value of Silicon on Insulator market is expected to reach $2,145.1 million by 2020, growing at a CAGR of 18.9 percent from 2014 to 2020.

The term 'Silicon on Insulator' was first announced and industrially implemented by IBM in August 1998. Silicon on Insulator (SOI) is expected to touch our lives; in a way, it will transform our world.

With new technological inventions and their seamless integration in our day to day lives, it is evident that the Silicon on Insulator concept has already laid down the foundation for a promising future. Technology and application trends are acting particularly as the future SOI enablers and these trends are also expected to shape the future of the SOI market. Some of these critical technology trends, which are expected to have a huge impact on SOI evolution, are SIMOX, Smart Cut, SOS, BESOI, and ELTRAN.

Silicon on Insulator has already revolutionized the consumer application industry. Various other SOI applications are also evolving and are expected to further drive opportunities for many industry players across the vast Silicon Market. A detailed segmentation by applications included in the report covers all the major SOI based smart devices used in automotive, computing and mobile, entertainment and gaming, photonics and telecom instruments.

Besides, major silicon wafer technologies, applications and products protocols, and standards have been also discussed in the report. The geographic segmentation section details the Silicon on Insulator market with regards to the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), and Rest of the World (RoW).

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Mitsubishi Electric updates RD07MUS2B 7W RF transistor

CYPRESS, USA: The Semiconductor Division of Mitsubishi Electric US, Inc. announced the availability of a new version of its RD07MUS2B 7W RF transistor that exceeds the current RoHS2 requirements by replacing certain exempt materials with compliant alternatives.

The Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive, as recently updated, requires that products sold to and distributed within the EU be certified as free of six materials classified as hazardous.

One of RoHS2’s prime objectives is to address concerns regarding electrical and electronic waste. RoHS2 currently permits a small concentration of substances such as lead and cadmium in the manufacture of electronics and electrical equipment, but those exemptions are expected to expire as part of the RoHS2’s long-range objectives.

As part of its commitment to the environment, Mitsubishi Electric has moved in advance of the next RoHS revision to remove exempt materials from the RD07MUS2B and substitute them with compliant alternatives. By phasing out exempt materials from the RD07MUS2B, Mitsubishi Electric furthers RoHS2’s long-range objective of eliminating hazardous materials, while providing its customers with a fully compatible replacement product.

Although this is the first of Mitsubishi Electric’s products to phase out exempt materials, Mitsubishi Electric’s other products comply with RoHS2’s current requirements and will be updated to replace exempt materials with compliant alternatives in the near future.

HUBER+SUHNER launches 120 ohm databus cable for rail vehicles as per EN 45545-2

SWITZERLAND: HUBER+SUHNER now offers new 120 ohm databus cables for train communication networks (TCNs).

The new RADOX DATABUS 120 OHM EN satisfy the corresponding databus standards and can thus be used as MVB (Multifunction Vehicle Bus), WTB (Wire Train Bus) or UIC (International Union of Railways) cables. They use electron-beam crosslinked materials, and are thus particularly well-suited for applications that involve high and low temperatures.

In addition, the cables are halogen-free, flame resistant and produce very little smoke in case of fire. With these special characteristics, the cables meet the strict fire safety requirements of EN 45545-2.

Best-in-class transmission characteristics for MVB or WTB applications
The symmetrical 120 ohm data cables have excellent transmission characteristics at high frequencies. As control cables in MVB or WTB applications, they connect the main components of the control system, such as traction control, control command, driver's cab displays, door controls and more. Whereas MVB cables connect the equipment on board the individual carriages, WTB cables ensure data transmission across all the carriages in the entire train.

RADOX DATABUS 120 OHM EN data cables are suitable for fixed installation in railway vehicles or for use in applications with limited alternate bending loads. The turquoise jacket makes them easily identifiable before, during and after installation.

The new cables are available in different design variants (paired, two pairs, four wires and with optional additional cores).

Toshiba develops tunneling field effect transistors for ultra-low power MCU

TOKYO, JAPAN: Toshiba Corp. announced the development of Tunneling Field Effect Transistors (TFET) that utilize a new operating principle for ultra-low power MCU. This principle has been applied to the development of two different TFET using a CMOS platform compatible process. By applying each TFET into some circuit blocks, it is possible to achieve significant power reductions in MCUs.

Toshiba presented the TFETs on September 9th and 10th in three presentations at the 2014 Solid State Devices and Materials (SSDM) in Tsukuba, Japan. Two presentations were based on joint research with the Collaborative Research Team Green Nanoelectronics Center (GNC) at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST).

Rapid demand growth for wireless and mobile devices is driving demand for ultra-low power consumption of LSI. In this situation, innovative devices are strongly required to reduce operation voltage and stand-by leakage current. Tunneling Field Effect Transistor (TFET) utilizing operation novel principle with quantum tunneling effect has attracted much attention to achieve the ultra-low power LSI operation instead of conventional MOSFETs.

Recently, the introduction of new materials, such as III-V compound semiconductors, has been widely investigated for TFET, as they have the potential to realize high performance. However, it is difficult to implement such materials into current CMOS platforms, due to the difficulties resulting from special process utilization.

Global LED market to reach $42.7 billion by 2020

PORTLAND, USA: According to a new market research report by Allied Market Research titled, "Global Light Emitting Diode (LED) Market (Technology, Application and Geography), 2013 - 2020" the global LED (chips and components) market is forecast to reach $42.7 billion by 2020, registering a CAGR of 13.5 percent from 2014 to 2020.

Asia Pacific commands dominance of the LED technology market. The region houses approximately 3/4th of the global electronics manufacturing industries. North America, due to its high-tech forensic and medical applications leads the market for UV LEDs.

After the grand success of the CFL lights, light emitting diode is the next buzzing technology in the general lighting industry. Absence of hazardous liquid mercury and power efficiency has allowed LED to successfully penetrate the market and has outdone CFL lighting in the commercial market.

It is anticipated that LED lights would command about 20 percent share of the global lighting market by 2020. This will be equivalent to 2/3rd of the revenue for LED. However, the demand for basic LED in backlighting applications would decline as OLED broadens its horizon of applications and would eventually supersede basic LED based mobile displays.

UV LED primarily finds its application in medical treatments and forensic tests. UV LED technology anticipates further development as companies are rigorously working out acquisitions to expand their product portfolio and applications.

In January 2013, Noblelight acquired Fusion UV, manufacturer of UV LED technology to enhance their UV LED product features. Developed regions, though, are early adopters of the UV LED technology; the healthcare sector in developing regions such as Asia Pacific is also contributing to the growth of the technology. The growing medical tourism and lower cost of treatments will strengthen the adoption of UV LED technology in developing regions.

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Digi-Key and Inventek announce global distribution agreement

THIEF RIVER FALLS, USA: Digi-Key Corp. and Inventek Systems, a full-service modular solutions provider of Wi-Fi, BT, BTLE, NFC, GPS, Combo-Radios, Broadcom WICED platforms and Antennas for embedded Connectivity and IoT-ready applications, have announced a global distribution agreement.

Inventek’s entire product line is now available for immediate delivery on Digi-Key.

Inventek’s modular connectivity solutions address a growing need for IoT products and solutions across a wide range of embedded vertical markets including consumer, industrial, energy, medical, and military segments.

Ira Suko, director of Semiconductors at Digi-Key, said: “Our customer base will find great value in the addition of Inventek’s Best-In-Class IoT and Cloud-ready portfolio. These products provide a wide range of options from low-cost system-in-a-package (SiP) products to modular-based solutions that address a particular application or industry need.”

Pasternack releases high isolation RF switches

IRVINE, USA: Pasternack Enterprises Inc., an industry-leading manufacturer and supplier of RF, microwave and millimeter wave products, debuted an entirely new family of high isolation PIN diode switches consisting of three low insertion loss, high isolation and high speed modules, covering a frequency range of 1 to 12 GHz.

When signal integrity and performance are a critical component of system functionality, the higher the isolation figure, the better the overall performance will be. Pasternack’s new PIN diode switches feature very high port-to-port isolation of greater than 90 dB at 1-2 GHz, 80 dB at 2-4 GHz and 75 dB at 6-12 GHz. Insertion loss of the high isolation switches from Pasternack varies between 1.0 dB and 2.5 dB depending upon the frequency and switching speed performance ranges from 35 and 75 nanoseconds.

These new RF switches are designed with complementary-metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) transistor–transistor logic (TTL) drivers, and are fully matched internally for 50 Ohm input and output, which eliminates the customers need for any additional sensitive RF tuning components.

Pasternack’s new hi-rel PIN diode switches are housed in SMA-connectorized casings that are built to withstand a wide operating temperature range of -54 to +85 degrees C making them ideal for use in many common defense and commercial applications. These particular PIN diode switches from Pasternack are also constructed to meet typical military specifications in areas such as vibration, shock, temperature and humidity.

TTI announces acquisition of HuaTong Electronic

CHINA: TTI Inc. an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, announced the acquisition of the assets of HuaTong Electronic Co. Ltd, an electronic components distributor headquartered in Dongguan Shilong. Founded in 1994, Huatong was the first batch authorized distributor of Molex connectors in Greater China and remains the largest domestic Molex distributor in Asia Pacific South.

Huatong employs approximately 60 associates at established locations in Dongguan Shilong, Hong Kong, Suzhou, Shenzhen and Beijing. The company is a specialty distribution partner to many Chinese, domestic cellular phone manufacturers − a market segment not previously served by TTI in China.

Gene Conahan, president TTI Europe and Asia, said: “Bringing Huatong Electronics into the TTI family of companies establishes our presence in the fast growing Chinese cellular phone market segment and is further evidence of TTI’s commitment to growth in the region. With the good people of Huatong on our team I anticipate continued success in both areas.”

Man Deng, Huatong’s GM, added: “We at Huatong know that TTI has the same spirit as our company; ‘Service-oriented, customer-oriented’ and the same management policy of ‘sincere service, people-oriented.’ We are happy to join TTI and offer our customers and employees the service and support of TTI.”

Galtronics launches 60/60⁰ high gain LTE MIMO stadium antenna

LAS VEGAS, USA: Galtronics Corp. Ltd., a Baylin Technologies company, has unveiled its newest EXTENT D5778i 60/60° MIMO panel antenna, designed for use in high-capacity venues such as stadiums, arenas, speedways or campuses where excellent wireless coverage is desired.

The new antenna is being presented for the first time at Galtronics Booth #2665 at the Super Mobility Week conference (CTIA).

Galtronics’ EXTENT antenna line consists of outdoor DAS and Stadium antenna solutions and offers high density venue owners a full range of state-of-the-art options that include the EXTENT D5501i 30/60° and EXTENT D5777i 30/30° beam width antennas as well as the new D5778i 60/60° antenna.
Coupled with the Pear product line for in-building wireless DAS networks it creates a full and complete product portfolio for high capacity venues as well as in-building DAS.

“With this 60/60 high capacity ‘Galtronics technology inside’ antenna product we reached a significant milestone, completing our high capacity venue product portfolio for DAS market as it exists today,” said Ephraim Ulmer, president and CEO of Galtronics. “We will continue to innovate in this fast moving wireless space, and we are working closely with our key customers on the next generation of products to further enhance high density and large venue wireless communications.”

The new EXTENT D5778i antenna provides precise, consistent and fast roll-off patterns for a clear-cut footprint and low interference. It handles up to 250–watt input power and is optimized for multi-carrier systems. The D5778i covers a particularly broad frequency range of 698-960/1710-2700 MHz, making it an attractive and future-proof choice for wireless network deployment. Galtronics tests all covered spectrum bands for Passive Intermodulation (PIM) to ensure high quality and performance.

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Pasternack publishes RF calculators and conversion tools

IRVINE, USA: Pasternack Enterprises Inc., an industry-leading manufacturer and supplier of RF, microwave and millimeter wave products, has created and published a new set of RF calculators and conversion tools to assist engineers with answering complex RF-related product and design questions that arise on a daily basis.

A total of 27 RF calculators were developed by the engineering staff at Pasternack to provide the users and buyers of RF components a valuable and easy-to-use resource while in the planning or designing phases of their projects.

The new RF calculators and converters include link budget, coax impedance, RF power conversion (such as dBm to Watts), attenuation, frequency, wavelength, VSWR/return loss, torque, noise, Free Space Path Loss (FSPL), unit conversion, microstrip and many others. Each calculator page includes a diagram or illustrated depiction of what the calculator is used for as well as the mathematical formula for the chosen calculator.

Pasternack’s new RF calculators contain another value-added feature that proves useful for engineers looking to take the results of their calculations to the next step of purchasing product that meets their requirements.

In each one of the product-oriented calculators, where applicable, the user plugs in the variables for their desired calculation and based on the result, the calculator will produce a “Find Related Products” button that directs the user to Pasternack products that meet his/her specific criteria. This innovative feature allows engineers and buyers to both research and purchase as needed from one location, preventing the hassle of going between numerous sites.

SHARP intros PN-Y series of professional LEDs

MAHWAH, USA: Sharp Imaging and Information Co. of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, is introducing the PN-Y series of professional LED edge-lit displays.

Available in 55, 47, 42, or 32 inch class sizes, the PN-Y series of monitors offer businesses a commercial-grade LED display solution at an affordable price. This collection provides an intermediate range of options between consumer AQUOS® televisions and the higher-end PN-U series of LED displays, making it ideal for small and mid-sized businesses.

Businesses often opt to use consumer televisions in commercial settings due to their lower price, forfeiting the functionality and engineering designed specifically for commercial use. This latest series of displays provide a high-definition, tech-forward solution while remaining cost-effective for most commercial applications.

Able to display content in both landscape and portrait installations, the PN-Y series is equipped with the standard features of traditional commercial displays including fanless architecture, built-in temperature sensor, and RS-232C control and monitoring. The models also incorporate a thin bezel and are designed to be operated 20 hours a day, 7-days-a-week.

"The PN-Y series allows us to bridge the gap between our AQUOS consumer-grade televisions and our professional-grade displays to provide our customers with an affordable middle option," said Mike Marusic, senior VP, Marketing and Operations, SIICA. "This series is incremental to our product line and gives customers many of the features of these higher-end professional displays plus additional capabilities designed for this target audience."

The PN-Y series also includes features new to this class of displays including a mirror display mode, or daisy chain capability which allows users to have the same onscreen content displayed on a series of PN-Y monitors. Also available in this series is the ability for PC-free playback of content through the inclusion of an integrated USB media player.

FCI intros economical and lead-free un-shrouded EconoStik 2.54mm headers

SINGAPORE: FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, is proud to introduce the new and economical EconoStik 2.54mm range of un-shrouded headers which is capable of supporting a wide variety of board-to-board applications.

EconoStik 2.54mm is available in single-row and double-row with vertical through-hole, right-angle through-hole and vertical SMT versions, with pin counts up to 72 positions. Standard mating and tail as well as customizable lengths are available to support specific applications.

The un-shrouded header has four equal quality surfaces which ensure good mating performance with different types of receptacles. It features a current rating of 3A and a retention force between pin and housing of 9N per pin.

The high temperature resin supports wave soldering and reflow soldering. It is able to withstand voltages as high as 1500V AC. The resin of housing is UL94V-0 flammability rated, and meets industry standards UL E66906 and CSA LR46923.

Monday, September 8, 2014

Power supply market to grow by $3.5 billion in four years

LONDON, UK: The global market outlook for AC-DC and DC-DC power supplies is set for healthy expansion starting this year until at least 2018, with revenue during these four years projected to grow by $3.5 billion, according to a new report from IHS Technology.

Market revenue will expand to $25.1 billion in 2018, up from $21.6 billion in 2014.

The hefty four-year increase is an improvement compared to the previous three years from 2010 to 2013, when revenue grew by less than $1.0 billion. Growth this year is anticipated at 4.6 percent, with expansion to be as robust or even strengthen in 2015 and 2016.

“The markets for most applications that use a power supply are now growing again after a couple of gloomy years, with emerging applications such as power supplies for light-emitting diode (LED) lighting and media tablets leading the way,” said Jonathon Eykyn, power supply and storage component analyst for IHS.

“Demand for power supplies for these two applications alone is projected to grow by more than $2.5 billion from 2014 to 2018, but other power supply markets—such as telecommunications, data communications and industrial—are also projected to provide growth opportunities to power supply vendors in the coming years.”

Aside from emerging applications driving growth, many projects that had been cancelled or postponed because of economic concerns in the past are now being restarted to coincide with new projects and technology rollouts, further stimulating the market.

Also fueling significant expansion in the demand for power supplies is the continued growth of data centers to cope with the rise of cloud computing and the Internet of Things. Thanks to such drivers, revenue for power supplies to the server, storage and networking markets is projected to climb 24 percent from 2014 to 2018.

Growth is also solid in the markets for cellphone power supplies, with revenue forecast to ascend more than 8 percent in 2014. However, growth will slow after this year as more phones begin to ship without a bundled charger.

Mouser to release MultiSIM BLUE powered by NI

TAIWAN: Mouser Electronics announced the upcoming release of MultiSIM BLUE, the NI Multisim Component Evaluator – Mouser Edition.

In collaboration with NI, the new Mouser version of the free tool will add features and functionality to provide engineers with an industry-standard SPICE simulation environment of electronic circuits using Mouser Electronics’ distributed components.

This upcoming release of MultiSIM BLUE will include more than 100,000 electronic components with intuitive simulation features and SPICE analyses. Engineers can now visualize and evaluate linear performance, making this critical step of circuit design easier, faster and far more productive. With MultiSIM BLUE, engineers can easily create schematics, simulate circuits and build printed circuit board layouts, all with one powerful integrated tool. MultiSIM BLUE gives the ability to scheme and simulate, plus it handles PCB layout, Bill of Materials (BOM) and purchasing.

“Providing design engineers and other professionals with the best, most up-to-date and genuine authorized electronic components never has been enough for Mouser,” said Kevin Hess, VP of Technical Marketing. “We are constantly looking for ways to take that next step to help all of our customers, particularly design engineers, select, purchase and design the next great thing. With MultiSIM BLUE, Mouser and NI, two giants in the industry, have partnered to set a new standard.”

The advanced circuit design tool is included with a library of more than 100,000 authorized Mouser electronic components from the industry’s leading manufacturers. Simulation is driven by the same advanced parser technology as NI Multisim software with support from BSIM and other advanced parameters. Circuit diagrams can be defined with up to 50 components.

SceneStar LED scene lights available at Newark element14

CHICAGO, USA: Newark element14 announced the addition of SceneStar LED High Power Scene Lights to its offering.

The floodlights are targeted for use in big spaces, particularly with industrial businesses or nighttime emergency scenes where optimal visibility is critical. The 48 Ultra bright LEDs deliver an exceptionally powerful illumination of 20,000 lumens, while optimized thermal management reduces LED temperatures for long life and durability of more than 50,000 hours. In addition to improved performance features, the lights can be used in a variety of versatile application methods.

The brand new SceneStar LED Scene Lights come in two variations: standard and hazardous location. The standard model is equipped with a one-foot “pig tail” cord and customary three-prong outlet. The hazardous location model is designated for use where there is potential for gasses to ignite and comes with a longer, 50-foot cord.

The portable floodlight products also include tri- and quad-pods, 55-130 inches high, where the lights can sit for maximum efficiency. In addition, there are extra mounting options available. The wide variety of configurations allows for the lights to be assimilated into virtually any environment, an important component for both workplaces and emergency situations.

Typical applications for the standard units include construction, building and emergency use. Hazardous location unit applications are oil and gas, utility, industrial and mining.

SceneStar’s low ultraviolet light reduces the number of insects during nighttime operations, and engineered reflectors aid in projecting uninterrupted streams of powerful light output, which can be used in both spot and flood patterns. The SceneStar LED Scene Lights combine performance, durability, efficiency and style.

Friday, September 5, 2014

Key Tronic completes acquisition of CDR Manufacturing

SPOKANE VALLEY, USA: Key Tronic Corp., a provider of electronic manufacturing services (EMS), announced that it has signed a definitive agreement and completed the acquisition of CDR Manufacturing Inc. (dba Ayrshire Electronics) for $46.9 million in cash.

CDR has annual revenue of approximately $120 million and provides printed circuit board assembly and other EMS services to a diversified customer base, including a number of large multi-national companies. It operates manufacturing facilities in Minnesota, Arkansas, Mississippi, Kentucky and Mexico.

Prototype development on fast track with Freescale Kinetis EA series from Newark element14

CHICAGO, USA: Newark element14, the global electronics distributor for design engineers, announces today the availability of the new Kinetis EA Series of microcontrollers and development tools from leading embedded solutions developer Freescale Semiconductor.

Integrating the ARM Cortex architecture and a revolutionary new development environment, the Kinetis EA series is designed to dramatically increase the speed and simplicity of the design process, enabling initial prototypes in as little as 24 hours and reducing research and development time by two weeks or more.

A development portal walks EA series users through a wide range of the most common processes for rapid prototyping and an integrated software and hardware package that also reduces cost. A suite of easy-to-use tools support fast prototyping for newcomers and veteran engineers alike. These support tools include reference designs (motor control, networking, LED lighting and two-wheel engine control for automotive applications), software packs for lighting and motor control, driver packages and low cost StarterTRAK boards.

The vast ARM third-party ecosystem of the EA Series also grants developers access to third party IP and resources that establish a common, shareable architecture across teams and cut down on time-to-market.

“We are very excited to launch this revolutionary family of microcontrollers from Freescale, which offer robust EMI performance and extended, automotive-grade temperature range,” said David Shen, Group CTO at Premier Farnell. “Also, Freescale’s unique, comprehensive ecosystem of development tools for the Kinetis EA products will help engineers get their applications up and running in no time, affording them a competitive edge.”

Taoglas launches Iridium certified Spartan M2M smart antenna transceiver

LAS VEGAS, USA: For M2M and IoT companies working in oil & gas, mining, maritime, construction and emergency services, Taoglas, a leading M2M and IoT antenna provider, today launched an Iridium certified smart antenna transceiver that will leverage the Iridium satellite network’s reliable, global, low-latency coverage to provide connectivity in remote or extreme environments.

Called the Spartan STS.01, it includes an Iridium certified Taoglas antenna complete with an Iridium 9602 SBD transceiver, all encased within Taoglas’ robust Spartan enclosure. Visitors to the Taoglas Booth # 6029 and 7611-B in the M2M Pavilion at CTIA’s Super Mobility Week, September 9-11, will see the Spartan STS.01 first hand.

“For any M2M company working in vehicle telematics, or remote tracking where cellular connectivity is not available, the Spartan STS.01 transceiver provides a low-cost, low-risk solution to deliver critical information from anywhere on earth via the Iridium satellite network,” said David Wigglesworth, VP and GM, Americas & Global M2M Services, Iridium.

“For example, the all-in-one STS.01 reduces the cost to add Iridium M2M service to an existing cellular solution by providing the satellite hardware solution, only requiring the developer to complete the software integration by interfacing to an existing serial port.”

“When M2M companies include the Spartan STS.01 transceiver in vehicles, they don’t have to get separate certifications from Iridium or industry associations. The Spartan is certified for use on the Iridium network. In the future, we’ll be adding GPS/GLONASS and Beidou capabilities to the receiver,” said Dermot O’Shea, president, Taoglas USA.

Thursday, September 4, 2014

Tektronix enabling engineering education

BANGALORE, INDIA: Tektronix Inc. a leading worldwide provider of test, measurement and monitoring instrumentation has introduced special prices for its new education specific TBS1000B-EDU series of oscilloscopes.

This initiative will be making oscilloscopes super affordable for engineering colleges and universities in India, and one can own 70 MHz oscilloscopes at just Rs. 29,000.00.

The TBS1000B-EDU series are the first oscilloscopes in the industry with an integrated courseware system designed to help students learn more efficiently and effectively while minimizing the time instructors need to spend preparing and conducting lab sessions. With integrated courseware, instructors can make their lab exercise content viewable on the oscilloscope and students can conveniently capture lab results straight from the instrument.

Mouser signs global agreement to distribute Broadcom mass market products

TAIWAN: Mouser Electronics Inc., a top design engineering resource and global distributor for semiconductors and electronic components, has signed a global distribution agreement with Broadcom Corp.

As Broadcom’s first eCommerce distributor, Mouser Electronics will offer same-day shipping on a variety of Broadcom mass market products, including the industry-leading Wireless Internet Connectivity for Embedded Devices (WICED) platform. Broadcom’s WICED Wi-Fi and WICED Smart development platforms provide original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) with a complete, simplified implementation of wireless connectivity, resulting in faster time-to-market for a broad range of Internet of Things (IoT) innovations.

"Mouser is thrilled to serve as Broadcom’s first online catalog distributor,” said Jeff Newell, Mouser senior VP of Products. “Mouser’s partnership with Broadcom provides customers worldwide with an enhanced selection of industry-leading products including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Smart, and leading-edge RoboSwitch and StrataConnect Ethernet devices."

 "Mouser's excellent semiconductor-centric marketing and search engine optimization (SEO) capabilities make them an ideal choice as our eCommerce distributor," said Vince Brocato, Broadcom senior director, Global Channel. “Our relationship with Mouser will allow us to expand our customer base and continue to scale our platform offerings."

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Newark element14 launches range of PMOD compatible boards from Analog Devices

CHICAGO, USA: Design engineers looking to extend the capabilities of FPGA/CPLD boards with mixed-signal/analog integration can now take advantage of Analog Devices PMOD Compatible Reference Design Boards from Newark element14.

PMODs are small I/O interface boards that offer an ideal method for extending the capabilities of FPGA/CPLD boards. Analog Devices PMOD-compatible modules offer a wide variety of solutions that provide quick and easy access to leading analog and mixed-signal reference designs.

The PMOD-compatible peripheral modules plug directly into any FPGA/CPU port, fostering rapid development. They can be used with the SDP-PMD-IB1Z interposer board and plugged into the EVAL-SDP-CB1Z platform for performance evaluation.

Quick integration allows speedy access to plug-and-play rapid prototyping and development. The software is easy to download and use and is equipped with clear and simple support, including schematics, reference guides, example software, demo projects and FPGA configuration files.

Key applications for the modules include:
* Field Instruments/Smart Transmitters
* Programmable Logic Controllers/Distributed Control Systems
* Weigh Scales
* Instrumentation
* Chemical Analysis
* Industrial/commercial sensor nodes
* Building Control & Automation
* Rollover/Stability Control
* Avionics
* Servos and Robotics
* Temperature Controllers

“The Analog Devices PMOD boards will provide our design community with a fast, easy and convenient solution for integration and prototyping in FPGA and MCU designs,” said Mike Buffham, global head of product and pricing at Newark element14. “The PMOD boards are now available to our users worldwide and we’re excited to see how they enhance and support design development and performance.”

HUBER+SUHNER YAGI antennae provide train-to-track communications for New York City Subway

GERMANY: HUBER+SUHNER has been chosen to supply Thales with a range of trackside and on-board antennas and cables to support the CBTC (Communications Based Train Control) system of New York City Subway.

CBTC enables a continuous, high capacity, two-way digital communication between each train and control centre. The control system benefits from enhanced information such as train performance data and continuous determination of train location and speed.

Under a contract with Thales Canada Transportation Solutions, SENCITY® SPOT-M Yagi antennas and rolling stock SPOT-S antennas, together with Radio Frequency (RF) cable assemblies of HUBER+SUHNER will be used to provide the train-to-track radio network for trackside and rolling stock on the New York City Transit Flushing Line 7.

The on-board SPOT-S antennas are installed in the front of the car of each train and linked with RF cable assemblies with an access point on the train. The SENCITY® SPOT-M Yagi antennas are used in tunnels, where directional functionality and high gain is required to support the wireless communication systems that Thales deploys globally. All these products of HUBER+SUHNER delivered to Thales meet the railway-specific environmental requirements as per EN 50125-3 and fire safety requirements as per EN 45545-2.

The Yagi antenna was chosen because of the ability for a higher gain antenna to give better RF coverage and therefore achieve better network reliability. It is also a perfect shape and design for tunnel installations including between narrow tracks, since space is always an issue in such environments. The construction of the antennas protects them against water penetration and moisture, optimizing the performance of the antenna.

TRINAMIC unveils rapid development kit for stepper motor driver

GERMANY: TRINAMIC, announced immediate availability of the TMCM-1043-KIT development system. Designed for Trinamic’s highly integrated, NEMA 17-compatible TMCM-1043 stepDancer stepper motor module, the new development kit offers designers an easy-to-use PC-based GUI that allows one-click modification of motor drive current, micro-stepping and other key parameters.

The new, intuitive kit is custom-designed for use with Trinamic’s highly integrated and fully proven TMCM-1043 electronic assembly, which is developed for direct mounting on a NEMA 17 motor. Pre-programmed and pre-configured with all operating parameters to support standard 1.5A (peak) motors, the TMCM-1043 board uses Trinamic´s single-axis TMC2660 stepper motor driver IC, which integrates a motor pre-driver and power MOSFETs.

Controlled by industry standard step/direction pulses, the TMCM-1043 module automatically performs all motor coil current calculations, while driving an external stepper-motor with the industry’s lowest RDS(on) MOSFETs, resulting in minimal power dissipation. The module is optimized for direct mounting on NEMA 17 motors and is configurable for use with all motor types up to NEMA 23

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Camera flash LED driver solutions delivers up to 1.2A, ultra-compact 1.3mm x 1.3mm package

SAN JOSE, USA: Micrel Inc. introduced the MIC2873/MIC2874, an ultra-compact, camera flash LED driver that integrates a 1.2A boost converter and LED driver circuit into a small 9 pin, 1.3mm by 1.3mm chip scale package.

Operating from 2.7V to 5.5V and featuring up to 92 percent efficiency, these solutions are ideally suited for Li-Ion battery operated portable applications such as phone cameras, tablet computers, handset video equipment, and digital cameras.  High switching frequencies (2MHz for the MIC2873 and 4MHz for the MIC2874) allow for the use of a miniature size chip inductor and small input/output capacitors, thereby reducing the total power footprint to a solution size to less than 10mm squared.

In addition, these devices can operate in either a flash or torch mode with the ability to provide a boost or linear output using a single wire communication interface or through external pins. The MIC2873/MIC2874 are available in volume with 1,000 quantities pricing starting at $0.26/$0.30 respectively.

Micrel's new generation of high brightness Flash LED drivers address the growing market of tablets and mobile phones by reducing solution size for LED flash applications with a 40 percent reduction in package size.

These parts are fully protected against overvoltage and overcurrent conditions with a configurable time-out feature.  In addition, these ICs provide LED short circuit detection and a true load disconnect feature for best system reliability.  The MIC2873/MIC2874 devices are fully specified with an ambient temperature range from -40 deg C to 85 deg C.

Fairview Microwave debuts comprehensive lines of IP67 RF adapters

ALLEN, USA: Fairview Microwave Inc., a pre-eminent supplier of on-demand microwave and RF components, introduces a comprehensive line of IP67 RF adapters commonly employed in the DAS, cellular, aviation and military industries due to their ingress protection from water and dust.

Fairview Microwave’s new RF adapters are IP67 rated, meaning they use advanced ingress protection to make them virtually impenetrable to contaminants like dust, sand, and water. Offered in this release are in-series adapters including 7/16 DIN, 4.1/9.5 mini-DIN, Type-N and TNC.

Between-series versions include 7/16 DIN to 4.1/9.5 mini-DIN, 7/16 DIN to Type-N and 4.1/9.5 mini-DIN to Type-N. They are compatible with all like-series connectors, cables and passive and active components. Each adapter operates to 6 GHz with excellent VSWR of 1.15:1 to 1:25:1 depending on the connector type.

Fairview’s ingress protected RF adapters also come in two different versions, “Mated” and “Unmated”. “Mated” adapters meet the requirements of IP67 only when both ends of the adapter are terminated in mating connectors.  “Unmated” adapters meet the requirements of IP67 even when one or both ends of the adapter are unterminated.

“In outdoor RF communications installations, ingress protection against dust and water is imperative. This new line of IP67 adapters offers the highest level of dust and water protection without the addition of costly and time-consuming weatherproofing tapes”, says Greg Arnold, Technical Sales Manager at Fairview Microwave. “Our extensive offering includes IP67 adapters compliant in the mated and unmated condition ensuring you get the level of protection you need.”

Monday, September 1, 2014

Grässlin bolsters product portfolio with talis motion and presence detectors

GERMANY: Both, increasing energy costs and a stronger ecological awareness make people consider their own energy consumption more thoroughly. And wouldn't you be grateful for a little support?

To this task Black Forest Grässlin GmbH has been committed for more than 50 years. With a large variety of time switch technology, lighting and also temperature control, the company is a global partner chosen for innovative energy solutions by now.

To make saving energy easier for their customers Grässlin now successively extends its offer by a broad range of presence and motion detectors.

The first launch comes with one outdoor motion detector and two indoor detectors.

Due to the amount of already established motion and presence detector brands Grässlin focused on a particularly simple handling, latest technology and a modern design to provide an added value compared to existing products.