EP&Dee no 7 - September 2012

EP&DeeDESIGN & MANUFACTURING SEPTEMBER, 2012 ISSUE NO. 7, VOL. 10

E L E C T R O N I C S P R O D U C T S & D E S I G N E A S T E R N E U R O P E

An audiovisualinnovation for restand recuperation.

For the promotion of healingprocesses, well-being and relaxation page 24

T H E E A S T E U R O P E A N J O U R N A L F O R E M B E D D E D A P P L I C A T I O N S

Disposable Medical AccessoriesEndoscopes, staplers and hair-removal lasers are amongst the medical products which have disposable accessories. Rather than being sterilised and reused, these are designed to be discarded after a procedure. page 8

Rayson – a simple answer!From the beginning of time, thehuman race has mastered the methodsof communication enabling coveringdistances at higher speeds.page 16

Microchip announces twonew digital audio mixerboards based on low pin-count 32-bit PIC32 micro-controllers (MCUs). TheDM320014 USB digitalaudio accessory boarduses standard USB 2.0Mini-B connectivity;whilst the DM320413 digital audio mixer boardoffers Apple® portabledevice connectivity.

These two developmentboards, each powered bya Microchip PIC32MX250F128 32-bit MCU, enableaudio and voice devicedevelopment for a broadrange of applications.Both boards are designedfor easy integration ofdigital and analogue

audio into the targetapplication. Key featuresinclude interfaces for digital audio via USBMini-B or the Apple iOSinterface; line-in andmicrophone-in for con-venient connectivity toanalogue audio sources,such as microphones orinstrument pickups; andline-out and headphone-out for line-level outputand headphone connec-tivity. Each board provides an excellentstarting point for aportable music playerdock design. Additionally,these features allow themixing of digital and analogue audio, using thepower of the PIC32’sadvanced processingcapabilities. The develop-ment boards are suitablefor applications in theconsumer and automotivemarkets, such as consumeraudio docks, includingthose in stereo systems;noise-cancelling headsets;clock radios; or A/Ventertainment systemsounds bars; as well as inautomotive vehicles thatoffer portable music playerdocking capabilities.

MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYwww.microchip.com/get/LCWH

Microchip offers industry’s firstAudio Mixer Development Boards

PIC32 Digital AudioAccessory Board

(Part #DM320014)

PIC32 USB Digital AudioMixer Board

(Part #DM320014)

EP&Dee | September, 2012 | www.epd-ee.eu2

Continuous advancement in the semiconductorindustry has enabled an increasing number of functions to be integrated into less space. Page 12

Tracking devices are there to provide answers to thisquestion - whether the item in question is freight, alorry, a painting, a destination or a geocaching cache.

Page 18

Years of continuous research in infrared sensingtechnology led to the development of a state-of-the-art thermopile sensor that features 64 thermopile elements in an 8 x 8 grid format. Page 38

COMMENTS INDUSTRY NEWS

5 The Era of Apps

INDUSTRY NEWS COMPANIES

INDUSTRY NEWS EMBEDDED SYSTEMS

DESIGN EMBEDDED

8 Disposable Medical Accessories: Addressing the Challenge of Embedded StorageEndoscopes, staplers and hair-removal lasers are amongst the medical products which have disposable accessories. Rather than being sterilised and reused, these are designed to be discarded after a procedure.

12 Mini server deploying AMD Embedded G-Series with high performance graphics - Small computer for large tasksChristmann has added a tiny but powerful mini server to its portfolio - the TEO-XXS. Developed by the Kontron Value Added Reseller (VAR) ies and based on a 2.5 inch Pico-ITX™ embedded motherboard with AMD Embedded G-Series platform, the mini server provides a boost to performance and graphics capability, particularly for space-saving, energy-efficient and robust embedded applications

DESIGN WIRELESS

16 Rayson – a simple answer!From the beginning of time, the human race has mastered the methods of communication enabling covering distances at higher speeds.

18 Fast on the final straight - Power consumption in tracking devicesWhere is it? Tracking devices are there to provide answers to this question - whether the item in question is freight, a lorry, a painting, a destination or a geocaching cache. In all cases: GSM and GPS modules are the essential components in terms of functionality, value and power consumption.

DESIGN LEDs

20 Intelligent control of LED lightingDigital signal controllers add intelligent control and communication to LED lighting.

DESIGN LIGHTING

24 An audiovisual innovation for rest and recuperation. For the promotion of healing processes, well-being and relaxationWhether at home, in the office, hotel, spa or gym, in a hospital or a doctor's surgery – with one click illumotion opens up magnificent natural scenes, underwater worlds, works of art or real surroundings. Imagination knows no limits. Everything counts that appeals to the senses.

INDUSTRY NEWS ACTIVE COMPONENTS

INDUSTRY NEWS PASSIVE COMPONENTS

INDUSTRY NEWS SMT

INDUSTRY NEWS CONNECTORS

36 Everything from one source!

DESIGN SENSORS

38 Panasonic Releases the World’s 1st SMT Thermopile Array Sensor.Panasonic Electric Works Europe AG, the European headquarters for Panasonic Corporation’s Industrial Devices business, announces the release of the first ever Surface Mount Technology (SMT) thermopile array sensor, the Grid-EYE. Years of continuous research in infrared sensing technology led to the development of a state-of-the-art thermopile sensor that features 64 thermopile elements in an 8 x 8 grid format.

INDUSTRY NEWS MISCELLANEOUS

Table of Contents

SEPTEMBER 2012


INDUSTRY NEWS

COMPANIES

P. D. Circuits, Inc., specializing indelivering the highest qualityprinted circuit boards (PCBs),technical support, and service toOEM and EMS companies world-wide, announces the addition ofits ‘Get Fit Challenge’.P. D. Circuits has opened anonsite fitness center and is offer-ing financial incentives foremployees who reach their fit-ness goal. This is a new way that P.D. Circuits is encouraging itsemployees to take care of them-selves, in addition to offeringcomprehensive employee bene-fit programs.“Our employees are excited aboutthis program,”said HumanResourcesManagerKimberleyWolff. “Whilewe offer acomprehensiveset of employ-ee benefitsprograms thatincludes med-ical insurance and employee assis-tance programs, the ‘Get Fit

Challenge’ is different because it isproactive. The goal is overall healthand well-being in an effort to pre-vent health issues and injuries. It is awin-win for both P. D. Circuits andits employees. Healthy employeesare more productive and use fewersick days and, of course, we all wantto be healthy.” The new ‘Get Fit Challenge’demonstrates P. D. Circuits’ dedi-cation to continuous improve-ment for both its employees andcustomers. P. D. Circuits providessuperior support and value to itscustomers by delivering world-class PCB fabrication supply chainservices and products.

P. D. CIRCUITSwww.pdcircuits.com

P. D. Circuits Implements EmployeeFitness Challenge

Leading power supply company,Glassman High Voltage, offers abroad range of products whichare suitable for even the mostdemanding applications. Its FJSeries of 120W regulated highvoltage DC power supplies offerlaboratory performance for rackmounting, and have a slim 1.75inpanel height. The series hasembedded microcontroller con-trol, with front panel digitalencoders that provide high-reso-lution local adjustment of voltageand current programmes. INTE-GRAL RS232, USB and optionalEthernet communications enableremote control program andmonitor capabilities. Further fea-tures of the FJ series are arcquench, arc count and selectablecurrent trip / constant currentmode control. The FR Series of300W Regulated High Voltage

DC power supplies also rackmount with a 1.75in panel heightand offer the same features as theFJ series with greater power out-put. Both the FR and FJ series areair insulated – no oil or solidencapsulation is used, which helpsreduce the weight of these unitsand allows full serviceability.

GLASSMAN EUROPE www.glassmaneurope.co.uk

Power from Glassman for outstanding performance and value

Microchip announces the expan-sion of its comprehensive Multi-Purpose Flash Plus (MPF+) portfo-lio with the introduction of fournew compact 512K x16 parallelFlash CMOS devices: the SST39VF401C, SST39F402C, SST39LF401C and the SST39LF402C.Manufactured with high-perform-ance CMOS SuperFlash® technol-ogy, these low-power, 2.7-3.6V,x16 parallel NOR Flash devicesfeature a split-gate design andthick-oxide tunnelling injector forsuperior reliability and design sim-plicity. All four devices helpto reduce engineeringdesign cycles, and improveoverall product perform-ance and responsiveness,which enables an enhancedend-user experience.Offering a number ofadvanced features, theSuperFlash technologywithin the SST39VF401C/ 402Cand SST39LF401C/402C guaran-

tees fixed programme and erasetimes that do not deteriorate overtime. The devices also achieveactive current as low as 5 mA (typ-ical) and standby current of 3microamperes (typical) to extendbattery life in accessories, sensorsand battery-operated equipment.These features make them idealfor consumer electronics, industri-al devices, automotive, telecom-munications equipment andembedded systems requiring low-cost and versatile updating of pro-gramme or data memory.

MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYwww.microchip.com/get/3UTX

The MSC Vertriebs announced ithas added two new, performance-enhanced, cost-optimized mod-ules to its high-performance MSCC6B-7S COM Express™ moduleproduct line-up. The compactembedded modules feature anintegrated Dual-Core Intel®Celeron™ 847E processor with 1.1GHz or a Single-Core Intel®Celeron™ 827E processor (1.4GHz). Both modules comply withthe type 6 pin-out of the currentCOM Express™ standard and sup-port two independent displays.The MSC Vertriebs GmbH deve -loped the MSC C6-MB-EVA evalu-ation board to enable the set-upand evaluation of prototype sys-tems that are based on the high-performance COM Express™ MSCC6B-7S modules with type 6 pin-out. The platform allows moduleswith a type 6 pin-out to be thor-oughly tested and evaluated.Moreover, the evaluation boardcan also be used for simultaneoushardware and software develop-ment, dramatically accelerating theintegration process.

The MSC C6-MB-EVA evaluationboard in ATX format (305mm ×244mm) not only provides a slotfor any type of COM Express™module, whether basic or compactformat, but all of the interfacespossible with a type 6 pin-out aswell. For example, numerous inter-faces such as DisplayPort, DVI,HDMI and eDP (embeddedDisplayPort) are also provided forconnecting displays and monitors.Some interfaces are availableexternally through connectors onthe I/O shield, while others areavailable as internal interfaces.

MSC VERTRIEBS www.msc-ge.com

Type 6 COM Express Modules and Evaluation Board from MSC

Microchip strengthens parallel Flash memoryportfolio with high-speed, low-power devices

www.epd-ee.eu | September, 2012 | EP&Dee 5

The Era of Apps People who drive the new wireless revolution think that appli-cations are “everything.” Hordes of developers have piled andcontinue to do so into the applications business, creating ofthousands of offerings for on-line stores all over the world.The appetite for such applications is insatiable: it is estimatedthat some 18 billion “Apps” have been downloaded since thefirst app store was opened in 2008 by Apple. Most forecastssee that number grow to some 49 billion by end of 2013.Many games, such as “Tap Tap Revenge” and “Angry Birds,” inwhich a bunch of enraged digital fowl wage war again evil pigsthat have pinched their eggs. But there are also plenty of moreserious propose, such as FBI’s Child ID iPhone app, which letsparents store information about their kids and sends it to theauthorities if a child goes missing.

In many ways, apps are representative of the changes takingplace in personal technology. Small, downloadable chunks ofsoftware, they give people access to information in a neatlypackaged format and must have one or more of followingattributes: simplicity, cheapness and instant gratification. Theyhave caught partly because websites do not look good whenviewed on phones’ tiny screens. Apps do a much better job atmaking the best of the space available. Using them is intuitive,by and large. Many are free; many others cost no more than afancy cup of coffee. Some of the most creative apps make themost out of the phone’s sensors. Gaming ones use accelero -meters and gyroscopes to track user’s motions, while mobile-navigation apps rely on inbuilt gps systems.

Another reason why apps have proved popular is that, unlikewebsites, they do not need a constant connection to the inter-net. Instead, they are stored in mobile gadgets’ silicon memoryand refreshed when a new connection is available. This alsoexplains why they launch so much faster than software on PCs.Apps mean that people are no longer going to be satisfied wait-ing for spinning hard disks on devices to deliver what they want.There has been speculation that apps may fade when websitesdesigned to work better on mobile devices appear. But that isunlikely to happen while mobile internet connectivity remainspatchy. Fans also point out that apps are easy to create.

Most apps, however, re destined for obscurity. It is estimatedthat, like in most line outs, the 50 most used one account for awhopping 61% of usage. Part of the problem is that there isstill no reliable search engine for discovering outstanding apps.No doubt there will soon be an app for that too. n

(inspired by and adapted from The Economist)

Radu Andrei


INDUSTRY NEWS

EMBEDDED SYSTEMS

Dialog Semiconductor plc.announced Jabra has adoptedthe company’s short-range wire-less audio ICs to create the JabraPRO™ 9450 Flex JP headset,which connects with officephones and PCs running VoIPcalling software, such as Skype orMicrosoft Lync. The Jabra PRO 9450 Flex JP is astylish, high-performance, light-weight wireless headset and is thefirst system to use Dialog’s chipsfor the Japanese variant of theDECT standard. It has up to a 120-metre range, delivers up to 10hours of talk time and integratesDialog’s SC14480 single-chipCAT-iq IC in the headset, withDialog's LMX4180 DECT trans-ceiver and SC14450 high-endbaseband processor in the base-station.The Jabra PRO 9450 Flex JP isoptimised for noisy work envi-ronments, while providing indus-try leading wireless audio quality.The headset runs Dialog’s PerfectAcoustic Echo Canceller (PAEC)and background noise cancella-tion with a wideband audiocodec. For wireless audio applications,the DECT standard enables ener-

gy efficiency enhancements, easypairing, wide-band audio datarates and secure connectivity.Dialog is the market leader in thissegment and its portfolio coversall regional versions of DECT plusthe 2.4GHz DCT protocol andalso includes the DECT ULE fami-ly of products; SmartPulse. The adoption by Jabra furtherextends the recent deploymentof Dialog’s DECT technologiesinto a broader range of shortrange wireless audio applica-tions; including professionalheadsets, wireless microphonesand gaming.

DIALOG SEMICONDUCTOR www.dialog-semiconductor.com

Dialog Semiconductor FURTHERS Wireless audiosuccess with jabra DESign win

The trend towards downsizingon the embedded market doesalso work for 19“-systems: Theonly 1 U high system platform“blu!one” is currently the mostsought-after product of theELMA blu!-series of thePforzheim system manufacturerELMA Electronic.The MicroTCA-dwarf blu!one,provided traditionally in a bluecase like all ELMA MicroTCA-sys-tems, offers highest performancein the smallest possible 19”-formfactor. ELMA has brought fullMCH-functionality includingpower management onto thebackplane. The blu!one offersenough space forup to six single-module midsize,respectively threesingle-module full-size AMC boards. Thanks to dou-bled Gigabit Ethernet switching

and intelligent data connectionsfor PCI Express, Serial Rapid IOand 10 Gigabit Ethernet, theblu!one offers maximum flexibili-ty and allows for a wide range ofapplication possibilities. Thispotential is supported by a maxi-mum performance of up to 360Watts whose waste heat is kept incheck by eight fans. These move34 cubic meters of air per hour. The blu!one flanks the 2 U high19“-platform „blu!two” whichlaunched the MicroTCA-horizon-tal system series in 2010. ELMAalso offers the service to deliverthe system as fully integrated ver-sion if requested.

ELMA ELECTRONIC www.elma.com

ELMA packs maximum performance into 1U form factor

Aeroflex Incorporated, a whollyowned subsidiary of AeroflexHolding Corp., announced the3550 Digital Radio Test Systemfeaturing an industry-first colourtouch-screen and enhancedspecifications to provide userswith a lightweight, easy to use,and reliable digital radio test sys-tem. Designed for ProfessionalMobile Radio (PMR), public safe-ty, and other land mobile radioapplications, the Aeroflex 3550test system quickly isolates prob-lems and assesses performance inAM/FM radios, with options forP25, DMR, NXDN™, and dPMRradio systems. The 3550 test system is light-weight (3.8 kg including battery)for field-testing of analogue,DMR, P25, NXDN, and dPMR sys-tems, and features 4.5 hours of

continuous operation with itsinternal battery. Uniquely, the3550 test system allows the userto test all aspects of the radio sys-tem — the transmitter, receiver,cables, and antennas — withpowerful features typically foundonly in bench top equipment. Italso meets MIL-PRF-28800Aspecifications for humidity, shock,and vibration, with an operatingrange of 0°C to +50°C.

AEROFLEXwww.aeroflex.com

Innovasic announces that itsRapID Platform Network Interfacehas been certified to PROFINETClass B and Net Load Class III.Achieving Net Load Class IIImeans Innovasic’s solution con-forms to the PROFINET standardeven under the highest networkload conditions.“The PROFINET Internationalorganization (PI) has introducedtests in order to prove the robust-ness of field devices under varyingdegrees of network traffic loading,”says Professor Dr. Frithjof Klasenfrom the AIT PROFINETCompetence Center of theCologne University of AppliedSciences and member of theBoard of Directors of PI Germany.“Devices that can pass Net LoadClass III have proven to be able towithstand the highest network traf-fic loading.”Innovasic achieves Net Load ClassIII performance with its patentedPriorityChannel™ technology.PriorityChannel eliminates theeffects of network traffic loadingand ensures real-time PROFINET

messages are always processedon-time, every time. A field deviceincorporating Innovasic’s NetworkInterface solution is protectedfrom unpredictable packet delays,excessive latency, and connectionfailure without worrying aboutnetwork segmentation or switchconfiguration.

“PriorityChannel extends PROFINET’sReal-Time Channel by allowing fielddevice parameters to pass to thenetwork without interruption,” saysTom Weingartner, Innovasic VicePresident of Marketing.

INNOVASICwww.innovasic.com

Innovasic’s RapID Platform Industrial EthernetConnectivity Solution is Certified to PROFINET ClassB, Net Load Class III

Aeroflex announces 3550 Digital Radio Test Systemwith the first colour touch-screen for the landmobile radio market


RECOM Lighting releases anew LED driver series with 30Watt constant voltage withPFC. The RACV30 series isavailable at the distributorRutronik. The RACV30 is thefirst of a new series of constantvoltage LED drivers, ideal forpowering LED strips and LEDmodules in applications such ascove lighting, signage, backlighting, channel letters, dis-plays or under cabinet lighting.The input voltage of 90 to264VAC assures full functional-ity worldwide. Besides, thenew drivers provide up to 30watts. They are available withoutputs of 12VDC or 24VDC,the output voltages are closelyregulated to compensate forvarying loads or supplychanges (2% max.).The new drivers have activePFC (Power Factor Correction/Compensation) and fullycomply with EN61000-3-2Class C. With their integratedconstant current source theyare able to supply several LED

chains in parallel. An additional application is thecombination with a DC con-stant current driver, such asRECOM’s RCD24. Measuringonly 160×55×22mm, the con-

stant voltage modules aresmaller than comparable com-petitive products. As is usual atRECOM, the drivers feature aterminal block and 5.5mm jackfittings on the input and out-put for easy and reliable fitting.For additional safety, they fea-ture an integrated over loadand thermal protection.

RUTRONIK www.rutronik.com

For LCD users running intopoor performance, cost over-runs, delivery delays, productobsolescence and other prob-lems, the Perfect MatchProgram from Phoenix DisplayInternational (PDI), Inc. offers arecourse: an LCD cross-match-ing process where the compa-ny is able to duplicate virtuallyany display manufactured byanother supplier and re-tool itin-house – quickly and at mini-mal cost – with optimal results.PDI has the ability to matchalmost all monochrome charac-ter, graphic and full-color TFTLCDs in performance, resolu-tion, contrast, interface, etc.,with additional customization

and/or integration also available.Problem areas that PDI cantypically improve upon areprice, obsolescence, quality,delivery and logistics, as well asoffering additional customiza-tion and/or integration. Thiscan be done with minimalimpact to customers while pro-viding 100% compatible drop-in replacement LCDs in almostall cases, unless an LCD driverIC or raw TFT panel becomesobsolete. And, even in cases ofcomponent obsolescence, PDIcan still often create a 100%compatible hardware match.

PHOENIX DISPLAYwww.phoenixdisplay.com

“PERFECT MATCH” LCD Cross-Matching Programfrom Phoenix Display resolves user problemswith LCDs from existing suppliers

Compact size LED driver from RECOM Lighting

8

Supplied in sterile, sealed packaging, thesesingle-use accessories will only be openedbefore a procedure. Being disposable, theycan be lower cost, lighter weight and moreflexible, since they do not have to withstandthe sterilisation process or be robust enoughfor repeated use. There are concerns frommanufacturers regarding related to third par-ties refurbishing and re-sterilising the unit forre-use, exceeding the unit’s design life andpossibly compromising hygiene. Togetherwith these primary concerns, other dangersinclude an incorrect accessory being used, orthe accidental use of an expired unit.

If digital control or measurement is already apart of the system, then it is possible to addan electronic communications link to the dis-posable portion. Figure 1 shows the simpleconfiguration required for the system to iden-tify the individual accessory, retrieve addi-tional data and record usage data in an inte-grated memory device embedded within thedisposable accessory.

There are a number of different types of dataheld within a disposable accessory that a medicaldevice manufacturer may want to retrieve.

Usage StatisticsEven disposable accessories can record that theunit has already been used and note the serialnumber of the equipment involved. Recordingthis information in the accessory itself guards

against improper reuse with another system,even if this data can also be recorded by theequipment. Such devices can also measure thetotal duration of use or numbers of usages, foraccessories with specific lifespans.

DESIGN

EMBEDDED

Figure 1: Embedded memory within disposablemedical accessories enables communicationwith the main system for the retrieval ofdata and usage.

Endoscopes, staplersand hair-removal lasersare amongst the medicalproducts which have disposable accessories.Rather than being sterilised and reused,these are designed to be discarded after aprocedure.

by Jonathan Dillon, Microchip Technology Inc.

Disposable Medical Accessories:Addressing the Challenge ofEmbedded Storage

EP&Dee | September, 2012 | www.epd-ee.eu


Calibration InformationAll accessories produced should be identicalbut the effect of manufacturing tolerances,processes and chemistries may cause signifi-cant variation between units or batches. Thesystem may be able to compensate for thesevariations, if they can be highlighted at theproduction stage. Accessories can be tested atthe manufacturing stage to determine theirperformance, and their compensation valuescan be stored in the memory. Storing this data in the accessory makes thecompensation seamless to operators, andensures that the accessory and its calibrationdata are not separated or mixed up.

Expiry DateTo program the medical accessory with anexpiration date only requires that the systemconsole has the current date and time, to com-pare against the accessory’s expiry date. Oncethis is established it is easy to verify whether ithas exceeded its shelf life.

Model NoThe accessory’s model number can be used toensure it is the correct accessory for the system,and to indicate the accessory type for systemsthat accommodate multiple disposable -attachment categories.

Serial NoHealth-care management may require that thesystem records the serial numbers of everyattachment used, for the collection of warrantyinformation and the statistical analysis offailures. If the manufacturer has communica-tion link to the equipment in the field, recallmanagement could be automated with aninstruction to equipment to reject specificserial numbers.

Implementation

An interface to the accessory is all that needsto be added if the system already uses a micro-processor or microcontroller. A serial protocolis well suited for the limited volumes of datathat need to be transferred then only an inter-face to the accessory needs to be added, ifelectrical contact can be made between theaccessory and the system. This also fulfills thelow-cost and small-physical-size requirementsof disposable medical accessories. If the sys-tem has an internal serial bus, then this can beextended to the accessory.

A serial memory device can be used to mini-mize complexity and components, since theelectronics in the accessory need only commu-nicate and store data. Serial memories are avail-able with a variety of communication busses;Table 1 lists the advantages and disadvantagesof various options.

DESIGN

EMBEDDED

Table 1: Comparison of commonly used serial-memory communication busses.

Figure 2:Typical data communications with a disposable accessory’s onboard memory.


Rapid communications are delivered by SPIbut the 6 lines and power lines require physi-cally larger and more expensive connectorsbetween the system and the accessory. I2C™ protocol and single-wire busses, such asMicrochip’s UNI/O® protocol are much bettersuited to these applications. Slower communi-cation speed ceases to be an issue given thelimited volumes of data required by dispos-able medical accessory applications. Thereduced number of electrical lines required bythese protocols allows smaller, lower-cost con-nectors and potentially more reliable commu-nications. The two-wire I2C communicationprotocol is simple to implement and also hasthe advantage of being synchronous, so itdoesn’t have tight timing requirements. Many microprocessors and microcontrollerssupport I2C via dedicated on-chip hardware tomanage the bus, in contrast to single-line com-munications protocols which often requiresoftware to manage the bus—though this soft-ware is widely available—or the use of a trans-lation bridge device. There are several com-peting, proprietary single-line protocols. Theleading single-wire protocols support selfclocking or clock recovery, which removes therequirement of high-precision oscillators onboth ends. Low data rates allow the use oflong, highly capacitive cables and simple signalnoise filtering. Power can be supplied over thedata line with many single-wire communica-tions protocols, which eliminates the supply-voltage connection, but some external compo-nents may be required.

Memory Device Selection

Numerous suppliers offer I2C or single wireinterfaces for low-cost serial ElectricallyErasable Programmable Read-Only Memory(EEPROM) devices. Storage capacity can rangefrom 128 to over one million bits, enabling thememory to be matched to the specific needsof the application. Small device packages, suchas the SOT-23, SC-70, and bumped-die ChipScale package types, allow for easy integrationinto the disposable accessory without signifi-cantly altering its size and shape. EEPROMtechnology also offers highly robust storagefor more than 200 years at high temperatures.The system can re-write the data stored in theaccessory whilst it is in use, allowing the usageinformation to be updated and the system toindicate that the device should be discarded.

Alternatively, the accessory’s data can be re-written to record its usage history, as shown inFigure 2. Writes to the EEPROM are performedquickly, but it is a good practice to read fromthe memory afterward to verify that the writeoccurred and was completed, since the accessorycan be disconnected at any time. EEPROMoffers high endurance, allowing each memorybit to be rewritten more than 1,000,000 times,allowing usage data to be frequently updatedwithout “wearing out” the memory.Serial Presence Detect (SPD) EEPROMs supportsoftware write protection provides additionalsecurity because a command is required in

order to lock and unlock a portion of thememory for writing. This protects against erro-neous writes by the system, caused by devia-tions from normal operating conditions. A fur-ther subset of EEPROM devices has perma-nent write-protection schemes which, onceenabled, cannot be unlocked. This could beused to indicate that an accessory has alreadybeen used, by writing usage information to thememory before enabling the protection. Theprotection scheme prevents the informationfrom being reset by third-party refurbishersbut allows usage information to still be read bythe system. SPD devices are I2C based and areproduced by all of the leading EEPROM man-ufacturers. These devices are also standard-ised, which avoids single-sourcing issues.There are SPI EEPROM devices with addition-al options for write protecting certain portionsof memory for sophisticated systems that cantolerate the increased number of connections.Programming embedded memory during themanufacture of disposable accessories givesmanufacturers the ability to program modelnumbers/types, serial numbers, batch calibra-tion, expiration dates or the maximum numberof allowed uses into each device so they canbe tracked and used appropriately through-out its lifecycle. nwww.microchip.com

Note: UNI/O is a registered trademark ofMicrochip Technology Inc. in the USA and othercountries. All other trademarks mentioned hereinare the property of their respective companies.

DESIGN

EMBEDDED

Microchip announces the expansion of its serial SRAM portfolio withfour new devices that feature the industry’s largest densities andspeeds. They are also the industry’s serial SRAM first with 5V opera-tion, which is used extensively in automotive and industrial applica-

tions. These low-cost 512Kb and1Mb SPI devices maintain theportfolio’s low power consump-tion and small, 8-pin packages.Speeds of up to 80Mbps areachieved via the quad-SPI, orSQI™, protocol, providing thezero write-cycle times with nearinstantaneous data movement

needed for offloading graphics, data buffering, data logging, displays,maths, audio, video and other data-intensive functions.Two additional family members, the 23LCV512 and 23LCV1024,offer the industry’s most cost-effective options for non-volatile,unlimited-endurance RAM, via battery backup, at costs which are sig-nificantly lower than any other type of non-volatile RAM. With theirfast dual-SPI (SDI) throughput of 40 Mbps and low active and sleepcurrents, these serial NVSRAM devices feature high-speed operationwithout the high pin counts of parallel NVSRAM, and power con-sumption comparable to FRAM, at a fraction of the price.

MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYwww.microchip.com/get/PT2P

Microchip expands serial SRAMs with industry’slargest and fastest devices

Microchip announces announced the expansion of its stand-alone Real-Time Clock/Calendar (RTCC) portfolio with the new 10-pin, SPIMCP795XX family. These new devices offer many of the same featuresas the larger 14-pin MCP795WXX family, including superior timekeep-ing performance. Reducing overall component count in the system andeliminating the user programming costs for a serial ID make theMCP795XX RTCC family an ideal choice for the handheld, wireless andconsumer markets. By including 64 bytes of SRAM, 2 Kbits of EEPROMand a 128-bit Unique ID, whichcan be ordered blank or prepro-grammed with a MAC address,extra memory devices may notbe needed. Utility powermeters, manufacturing equip-ment, radios, GPS and hospitalinstrumentation applications,which need accurate time over abroad temperature range, will also benefit from the very wide digitaltrimming range, which can compensate up to 22 seconds per day ofcrystal frequency drift. Digital trimming improves the timekeepingaccuracy of RTCCs, and a wide digital trimming range providescustomers with high accuracy over a large temperature range. Accuratetimekeeping is also supported at a lower power-consumption level.

MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGYwww.microchip.com/get/T6KJ

Microchip releases new family of mid-range, SPI Real-Time Clock/Calendars in smaller, 10-pin packages

12

DESIGN

EMBEDDED

Continuous advancement in the semiconduc-tor industry has enabled an increasing numberof functions to be integrated into less space.CPUs have consequently become faster,increasingly versatile and more energy effi-cient over time, allowing increasingly compactsystem designs to be designed. Despite enor-mous improvements in performance andpower consumption, one aspect of embeddedcomputing has always lagged behind, untilnow: the graphics performance integrated intothe chipset. Because embedded computingtechnology has conquered new vertical mar-kets such as multimedia content delivery,kiosks, POI/POS and gaming, the need forlong-term available solutions is on theincrease, and these must also satisfy the grow-ing demand for graphic intensive applicationsin a highly integrated form. Above all, despiteincreased performance, systems must facilitateever more compact installations.

Mini server with maximum performanceChristmann is now able to demonstrate thisadvancement in processor technology integra-tion. The resource efficient IT solutions spe-cialist has enhanced its portfolio with one ofthe tiniest mini IT systems in the world. TheTEO products are based on the ThinEconomic Office concept, in which computersare reduced to a bare minimum in order tominimize energy and maintenance costs. The mini TEO system can also be deployed asan embedded server, because with a size of

129mm × 80mm × 44mm, it is hardly larger thana 500 gram packet of butter. The AcceleratedProcessing Unit (APU) combines a 1.0GHzdual-core CPU with a graphics unit of the samestandard as dedicated graphics cards, all on asingle chip. This provides an extremelyadvanced computing performance and graph-ics functionality, including the option to showtwo different contents, such as showing full HDon separate displays. This is particularly rele-

vant to twin installations, in which the embed-ded server takes on the task performed bytwo OEM systems. Examples include digitalsignage with double sided independentlycontrolled screens and kiosk terminals that areused as airport check-in systems. Another ben-efit of the TEO XXS G-Series mini server fordeployment in the digital signage area, as wellas for measurement and control applications, isits completely sealed and robust aluminum

Figure 1: The smallest TEO-XXS computer with AMD Embedded G-Series processors fromChristmann, best suited to specific applications. Hardly any space, not much power,too much dust and even spray water? No problem for computers of this category,whose system configuration can be scaled by ies to match individual requirements.

Christmann has added a tiny but powerful mini server to its portfolio- the TEO-XXS. Developed by the Kontron Value Added Reseller(VAR) ies and based on a 2.5 inch Pico-ITX™ embedded mother-board with AMD Embedded G-Series platform, the mini server provides a boost to performance and graphics capability, particularlyfor space-saving, energy-efficient and robust embedded applications.

by Daniel Piper, Product Marketing Manager, Kontron AG

Mini server deploying AMD EmbeddedG-Series with high performance graphicsSmall computer for large tasks

EP&Dee | September, 2012 | www.epd-ee.eu


housing with protection category IP54, whichprevents the ingress of dust, dirt and splashwater. The mini server is thus also ideal forinstallation outside of protected areas.

Most significant featuresThe compact design came about by onlyimplementing the most important standardfeatures: 2× graphic connectors as well as 1xEthernet and 2× USB 2.0 - which is sufficientconnectivity in most cases. For applicationsrequiring further connectivity, a choice ofinterfaces for the TEO XXS G-Series mini servercan also be implemented. These include asecond Ethernet port, WLAN or UMTS connec-tivity options, which makes the box ideal fornumerous applications with remote accessrequirements. A 2.5 inch IDE hard drive withup to 320GB is included in the basic configura-tion. A fast and robust Solid State Drive (SSD)is available optionally, which enables opera-tion in harsh environments that are prone toshock and vibration, such as machine roomsand vehicles. Silent operation is an attractiveadditional feature, because this is ideal forapplications in which the noise of a hard drivewould be disturbing, such as in the health sec-tor in patient areas, as thin clients in each wardor doctor's room or in professional digital sig-nage applications or in A/V equipment forhotels or conference rooms.

Greater integration in less spaceThe most important factor influencing thecompact system is the processor used and itslevel of integration with the chipset. This is notonly because it determines the number ofadditional components required, but it alsoimpacts the power consumption in Watts. If thisis particularly high, high performance cooling isneeded, for example using larger convectorfins or active fans. If the application also re -quires high performance graphics, a dedicatedgraphics card is usually required, which likewiserequires its own space within the system andsufficient cooling. Despite the TEO XXS G-Series mini servers' performance, the powerconsumption never exceeds 10W, even at fullusage, which is why the system is able to oper-ate without active cooling or ventilation slots.

Performance boost for low power appliancesThis high energy efficiency in a small size is aresult of the perfect thermal design of the TEO

XXS, which is based on the advanced proces-sor technology of the AMD Embedded G-Series APU. This combines a low-power ×86CPU with a powerful Radeon™ graphics unitdelivering the performance of a dedicatedgraphics card. In addition to supportingDirectX11, the integrated AMD Radeon™HD6310 graphics unit also supports OpenGL4.0. It therefore provides excellent playbackperformance of 2D- and 3D- content with highframe rates and resolutions of up to 2560 ×1600 pixels.

This enables designs that are cost-efficient andspace-saving with high performance graphics,without the need to use a dedicated graphicscard. Furthermore, because the integratedUniversal Video Decoder 3.0 relieves the mainprocessor from decoding video streams, theAMD Embedded G-Series APU based TEO-XXS is a new benchmark for systems with com-parable power consumption. The mini servercan decode 1080p videos in HDCP as well asin HD MPEG-2 and DivX (MPEG-4) format.

The APU is also OpenCL capable, so that par-allel processes can be efficiently offloaded tothe GPU, which can crucially increase the com-plete performance of the system.

The AMD Embedded G-Series platformincludes a total of seven different APUs, start-ing with a 1.0GHz single-core APU with AMDRadeon HD6250 graphics unit and a maximumof 5.5W TDP up to a 1.65GHz dual-core APUT56N with AMD Radeon™ HD 6320 maximum18W TDP. It is therefore positioned for partic-ularly compact, fanless SFF applications such asinfotainment and Kiosk systems as well as digi-tal billboards. The Christmann box includes anAMD T40N 1.0GHz dual-core processor withRadeon™ HD6290 graphics unit.

Embedded applications need more than just performanceThe availability of advanced embeddedprocessor technology is not enough. Theentire system design must be provided reli-ably and with long-term availability. Kontron, aglobal leader in embedded computing tech-nology, was one of the first manufacturers ofembedded hardware to provide the AMDEmbedded G-Series APU on an industrialgrade Pico-ITX™ motherboard, which is whyChristmann chose to implement the desiredAMD design with Kontron and ies. Pico- ITX™is the smallest industrial grade form factor andis therefore ideal for particularly compact andreliable system designs.

DESIGN

EMBEDDED

Figure 2: The Kontron embedded motherboard Pico-ITX™ KTA55/pITX with AMDEmbedded G-Series provides more interfaces than could be implemented in thissmall system configuration. An outstanding feature is its robust design which is aresult of the high-quality components used. Another advantage is the long-termavailability of the AMD Embedded G-Series.

Headless variant for deeply embedded systemsFor deeply embedded systems requiring no graphics output and no direct user input, three further AMD Embedded G-Series APUs are avail-able in an even more energy efficient headless variant without integrated graphics, which, depending on the configuration require only 5W ofpower. Regarding power consumption, this makes the AMD Embedded G-Series APUs a genuine alternative to other particularly energy-effi-cient processor architectures. Thanks to the proven ×86 technology, the advantage is being able to revert to a massive tried and tested softwareecological system. Major software modifications and migrations are unnecessary. With such applications in mind, ies from MeinerzhagenGermany in collaboration with Kontron are able to implement other dedicated interfaces in place of the DVI graphics interface. This can takeplace via a custom design of the board or via small USB expansion cards, which are easily integrated into a slightly larger housing.


The Kontron embedded motherboard 2.5"Pico-ITX™ KTA55/pITX can host up to 4GByteof RAM on a DDR3 SODIMM module, so thaties or Christmann can scale the system configu -ration to meet individual requirements. The integrated Unified Video Decoder mini-mizes CPU usage during the decoding ofH.264, VC-1, MPEG, WMV and DivX HDvideos. Together with High Definition Audio(HDA) which provides crystal clear audio out-put, the 2.5" Pico-ITX™ embedded mother-board facilitates extremely energy efficientvideo applications. Up to 6 × USB 2.0 (4× USBvia pin headers) enable the board to realize awide spectrum of application specific enhance-ments via cost-efficient peripheral compo-nents. The integrated 1000/100/10 Ethernetconnection provides the highest bandwidthand compatibility for networked applications.Storage media is connected via two 6.0 Gbit/sSATA interfaces, which enable maximum uti-lization of transfer rates offered by even thelatest solid state drives. Other features includea Trusted Platform Module for data security,an LPC bus and eight configurable GPIOs.

Expansion options inclusiveChristmann does not require all of these fea-tures for the mini design, because they want toachieve the maximum space saving for classicalmini systems. However the board featuresenable application specific expandable systemdesigns to be implemented at any time.Furthermore, the company ies is able to devel-op and/or implement further I/Os as required,which can optionally be connected via USBimplemented expansion modules.

Wolfgang Christmann, General Manager ofChristmann GmbH & Co. KG explained:“We wanted to enhance our range of extremelycompact mini-servers with a particularly powerfulmodel that includes high performance graphics, inorder to satisfy the ever increasing demand forgraphics sophistication. The AMD Embedded G-Series is the ideal ×86 platform for this.

The ies system design is therefore a sophisticatedone and the overall high quality of the solutionwill definitely impress more than only IT vendorsand commercial end users of (thin-) client solu-tions. The team from ies and Kontron that weselected can definitely stem many more require-ments, which lie outside our field of activity as aprovider of classical IT hardware. Our customers from areas such as hospitals andpublic authorities are also pleased if IT hardwareis long-term available and can thus be supplied in

identical configurations over the years, becausethis greatly simplifies the IT administrator service.”nwww.kontron.com

AuthorDaniel Piper isProduct MarketingManager atKontron AG

Figure 3: An impressive aspect of the AMD Embedded G-Series is its integrated graphics- which includes a freely programmable graphics core - and provides a real performance boost to low power appliances.

DESIGN

EMBEDDED

Kontron announced the new embedded Mini-ITX motherboard KTA70M/mITX based onnew AMD Embedded R-Series AcceleratedProcessing Unit (APU) and AMD A70M con-troller hub for rich media embedded applica-tions. With its integrated discrete-class AMD

Radeon HD 7000 Series Graphics it providesaccelerated processing capabilities and leadingedge graphics with the ability to drive up tofour displays simultaneously, either as inde-pendent displays, or as a single large surface.This makes the new Kontron KTA70M/mITX anideal solution for mid-range to high-perform-ance rich media applications in vertical marketssuch as medical, industrial automation, gamingand digital signage. The new Kontron embed-ded Mini-ITX motherboard KTA70M/mITXdelivers scalable performance from soldereddual-core up to quad-core APUs at an optimalbalanced performance per watt ratio. The newKontron embedded Mini-TX motherboardmaintains a remarkably low Thermal Design

Power (TDP) of 25 watts, even for the fastestAPU, which makes it ideal for any thermal andenergy constrained applications such as thosefound in casino gaming or medical. Furthermoreit enables innovative digital signage applica-tions with support for large displays with reso-lutions up to 4096×2160pixels. Developers canalso utilize the accelerated processing capabili-ties of the APU with up to 426 GFLOPs, toaccelerate both graphics- and compute-inten-sive applications while using industry-standardlibraries such as OpenCL, DirectX 11 and DirectCompute, which help to minimize develop-ment times and simplify design-in processes.KONTRONwww.kontron.com

Kontron embedded Mini-ITX motherboard with AMD R-Series APU for rich media embedded applications


But, the problem is how to use such informa-tion effectively? Probably, we all rememberthe times when various types of adapters wereproduced to enable connection of a mobiletelephone to a PC – tens of diagrams, differentplugs (fit only for a specific model of a tele-phone) and hours spent looking for or creat-ing programs - just to say the magical words:“Hurrah!, I‘ve got transmission!” That was nei-ther comfortable nor efficient.The next important step was infrared transmis-sion – IrDA. This standard eliminated conduc-tors connecting a cell phone with a PC andenabled data transmission with quite a decentspeed (max. 115kb/s in the 1.0 and 1.1 versions).However, it required a point – to – point typeconnection, devices had to “see” themselvesand be no further than 3 metres from eachother. A time has come for something morecomfortable.

It’s time for Bluetooth®

In 1994, a group of producers set up a team,whose objective was to define a new, wirelessmeans of connecting mobile telephones withother devices – their main assumptions were:small range, low transmitting power, low ener-gy consumption and low price. The final resultwas achieved in 1999, and it was a free-of-charge standard based on the 2.4GHz radiofrequency (the JSM band) described in theIEEE 802.15.1 specification. Bluetooth® adapter was born.

Its multiple advantages coupled with low pricebrought huge popularity to this solution. Atpresent, it is difficult to imagine a cell phone, PC,laptop, palmtop or even a keyboard withoutBluetooth®. Applications, to which it is used,have already exceeded the original ideas.

All the above make that designers more andmore willingly look at Bluetooth® adapter as apotential means of communication of theirdesign with the rest of the digital world.Initially, this seems to be quite a complex idea,however, at present, ready solutions are avail-able in the form of Bluetooth® module whichcan be installed directly in a device, and thissolves the whole problem under the IEEE802.15.1 specification. For our system, this will be one more element,which we can communicate with in a simpleway by means of UART or USB. One of the key suppliers of such modules isTaiwanese Rayson. ( www.rayson.com ).

In its offer, there are modules meeting allIEE802.15.1 standard requirements and com-petitive price with high quality of solutionsallow for incredibly easy implementation inany application.

The modules are characterized with lowpower consumption, have additional energy-saving modes (Park, Sniff, Hold and DeepSleep), and are compliant with Bluetooth®standard V2.0 + EDR. Communication takesplace by means of the UART or USB interface(in case of modules with sound transmission,additionally PCM).

HCI modules

BTM-330 / BTM-331 series Bluetooth® mod-ules are equipped virtually with just one radiopart with communication layer. Lack of implemented application profilesmakes them a very good solution for datatransmission in small dimension systems and

From the beginning of time, the human race hasmastered the methods of communication enablingcovering distances at higher speeds. The inventionof electricity accelerated this process – it broughtto existence telegraph, telephone and radio – thefirst wireless medium. But a real breakthrough wasthe mobile telephony – a human being was intouch with the rest of the world without beingbound to a place. Particularly important was thepossibility of sending information.

by Arkadiusz Węglewski M.Sc., Transfer Multisort Elektronik

Rayson – a simple answer!DESIGN

WIRELESS


translates into their low price. Low power consumption, supply voltage of1,8V or 3,3V and dimensions: 14 × 12 × 2,2mmmake them a perfect solution for applicationsin portable and battery-powered devices.

Universal modules

Such modules are available, apart from thebasic HCI version, also with other Bluetooth®system profiles. The idea of profiles originatedin order to ensure compatibility among appli-cations and Bluetooth® devices manufacturedby different producers. Basic profiles include:

• SPP – Serial Port Profile – a profile of virtual serial port describes require-ments connected with emulation of a wireless serial connection between two devices.

• HSF – Hands-Free Profile – described as a device of input gateway enabling receiving and making hands-free transmissions via a device. A typical application for using a telephone while driving a vehicle.

• HSP – Headset Profile – a very popular profile used to connect wireless headphones with a mobile phone.

• HID – Human Interface Device Profile – popular in wireless keyboards, mouse pads, etc.

A specific profile is available as properfirmware (selection by means of an adequatemodule symbol).

Multimedia modules

This is a special group of Bluetooth® modules,which is specializing in high quality of monoand stereo sound transmission.

This is supported by embedded by appletsfacilitating co-processor’s type, large memo-ries, 16-bit audio codecs and audio line serv-ice. Additionally, there are Bluetooth® A2DPand AVRCP profiles to support those tasks.

Particularly important is A2DP (AdvanceDistributor Profile) specifying procedures fortransmitting high quality sound stream.

Audio files are compressed to the formatallowing transfer to headphones or loud-speakers with limited throughput without loss-es of quality.

Functions of a remote control are supportedby AVRCP (Audio/Video Remote ControlProfile) technology.

All modules meet the RoHS standards, moreinformation available at www.tme.eu n

Transfer Multisort ElektronikTel.: +48 42 645 54 44Fax: +48 42 645 54 70 [email protected]

DESIGN

WIRELESS

Family BTM-240 BTM-620 BTM-730

Power (max) 18 dBm (class1) 18 dBm (class1) 4 dBm (class2)Interface UART / USB / PCM USB / UART SB / UARTAudio Bus I2S or SPDIF PCM, I2S or SPDIF PCM, I2S or SPDIFFirmware HSF / HSP - -Profile - HSP / HFP / A2DP / AVRCP HSP / HFP / A2DP / AVRCPDimensions 16×14×2 21×16×2 16×15×2Remarks • DSP co-processor • DSP co-processor • DSP co-processor

• 16-bit Stereo •16-bit Stereo Audio Codec • 16-bitAudio CodecAudio Codec

• Scatternet • Integrated battery charger • integrated battery charger• 8M FLASH • 8M FLASH

• noise elimination system • noise elimination system

Family BTM-110 BTM-160 / BTM-170 BTM-180 / BTM-190 BTM-220

Power (max) 4 dBm (class2) 4 dBm (class2) 4 dBm (class2) 18 dBm (class1)Supply voltage 3,0V – 3,6V 3,3V / 1,8V 3,3V / 1.8V 2,7V – 3,6VInterface USB / UART / PCM USB / UART / PCM USB / UART / PCM USB / UART / PCMFirmware HCI or SPP HCI or SPP or HSP / HFP or HID HCI or SPP or HSP / HFP or HID HCI or SPPDimensions [mm] 25×14,5×2,2 14×12×2,2 25×14,5×2,2 28,2×15×2,8Remarks 8M FLASH Integrated aerial High power

The list of multimedia module families.

The following table presents the most important families of Bluetooth® universal modules.

Modules are designed for applications requiring particularly high quality of stereo sound: wireless headphones, microphones, VoIP etc.

Universal modules are designed for home as well as industrial applications in portable devices, navigations, telephones, wireless headphones, GPS and POS, etc


DESIGN

WIRELESS

The measurement results: The power require-ments of the modules varied greatly depend-ing on the operating state, ranging from 1μA instop mode to 2A and more in transmissionmode. Accordingly, the average values varyfrom application to application depending onthe mode used most in each case. For instance,a tracking system which simply monitors an oilpainting hanging on a wall only uses a fewmicroamps. It is in standby mode practicallythe whole time, only starting a transmissionwhen and if the alarm goes off. The applicationreturns an average consumption of 480mA forGPRS class 10 and an output level of 2 watts.However, as the power requirements fluctuategreatly, such average values are only useful to acertain extent. Some components must bedimensioned to cope with the peak values.And an optimization of the device's powerconsumption is only possible when data isavailable for each individual mode. This iswhat Rutronik has now documented with theaid of the measurement series. The currentpeaks were registered using a storage oscillo-scope. The measurement resistance of 100Ωwas connected in series with the Telit GL865

Quad GPRS module. “We selected the measure-ment procedure with theintention of gaining generallyvalid data providing a soliddecision making basis for all

device development programmes,” explains Harald Naumann, Field ApplicationEngineer Wireless at Rutronik.

The results:

by Harald Naumann, Field Application Engineer Wireless, Rutronik

Fast on the final straight

Power consumption intracking devices

RL78 70µA per MHz RL78 with 0.70µA in 32KHz mode

RL78 with 0.52µA in stop mode

1 μA: in stop modeFor efficiently designedapplications the power con-sumption in stop mode iseven less than the battery'sself-discharge rate. Microcontrollers such as theRenesas RL78, which areoptimized for extremely lowpower consumption, require

70μA per MHz and 0.52μAin stop mode. In this casethe GPRS module isswitched off and galvanicallyisolated. The microcontrollerand the self-discharge rateare the main factors influ-encing the maximum appli-cation lifetime.

Where is it? Tracking devices are there to provide answers to thisquestion - whether the item in question is freight, a lorry, a painting, adestination or a geocaching cache. In all cases: GSM and GPS modulesare the essential components in terms of functionality, value andpower consumption. Power consumption is not only of central impor-tance for battery powered tracking devices, but in view of possiblepower supply fluctuations and peaks it remains a critical factor formains fed devices as well. It is not possible to give a wholesale answerin respect of power consumption. Therefore Rutronik has conducteda series of measurements of consumption in various operating modes.

19

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WIRELESS

1.5 mA: GPRS module in idle mode forreceiving an SMS or voice call, data (CSD) orfax. In this mode it is not possible to set up aGPRS connection.

21mA: in GPRS receive mode and connectionto server in internet.

230mA: with GPRS class 8 during transmissionA fax, voice and data transmission or a GPRSconnection in class 8 requires up to 230mA onaverage in the GSM bands 850/900 at thehighest performance level.

360mA: during transmission with GPRS class 10The GPRS module transmits more quickly inGPRS class 10, causing the average modulecurrent to double, up to 360 mA.

1 amperePeak current in the GSM bands 1800 and 1900rises to as much as 1 ampere. Here, the GPRSdata is transmitted in packets.

2 amperesThe peak current when using GSM 850 or 900reaches 2 amperes. This current may be reachedboth when sending and receiving an SMS as wellas during handover between two base stations.Therefore it is advisable to dimension thedecoupling capacitor near the module to copewith peaks of 2 amperes. It is also important totake account of the impedance of the batteriesand/or the DC/DC converter.

More than 2 amperesSome GSM modules raise the current above 2amperes in order to compensate for poorantennae. A base station demands more trans-mission capacity from the module if the antennaloss is too high. This means that inferior anten-nae cause extra power consumption. Developers should therefore aim for high-quality antennae design in order to reducepower requirements.

As wireless expert Naumann points out, “Themeasurements show just how large the differencesreally are. Basically, any value between 1µA and2A is possible. Also, our measurement series has

highlighted how much energy is required simplyto log into a GSM network.” Figure 1 shows thepower consumption while the tracking devicewas switched on and the PIN was entered.Several 2A peaks can be seen, repeated after ashort pause. They result from a renewedsearch for a base station because the first sta-tion had no free capacity. As described, thepeaks reach 2A and the average consumptioncurrent is 230mA. In the experimental setup2A peaks were measured for as long as 4.5seconds. During this time this amounts to aconsumption of 230mA × 4.5s = 1035mAs. Ifsetting up the connection only took 1 second,this would amount to a consumption of only250mA × 1s = 230mAs.

GPS module operating modesThe following sections contain examples forstates encountered in operating GPS modules.Of the many power saving modi used, only theSiRFaware™ mode is used as an example here.The degree of accuracy increases with thenumber of GPS channels used, but so does thepower consumption. The number of GPSsatellites which can be reached is limited bythe curvature of the earth. The latest modelsare able to receive signals from five differentsatellite systems in parallel. In Europe, GPS andGlonass are available at present, and in thenear future Galileo will be added to the list.

58 mW with GPS58mW / 3.8volts = 15mA or 70mA /3.8volts =18.4mA. A decisive factor towards minimizingthe power consumption consists in reducingthe time needed for the initial position deter-mination. A-GPS can provide for a significantreduction. Developers who use the GPSmodules from Fastrax can obtain free access tothe Fastrax A-GPS server for this purpose. Inthis way they can speed up the positioningprocess and minimize the power consumptionof their devices.

500μA for SiRFaware™For applications which require frequent GPSposition updates, the use of SiRFaware™ is tobe recommended. This technology down-loads the ephemeris data in the background.At the same time the real time clock is synchro-nized. On average, this requires 500μA ofcurrent. This represents a significant savingcompared with the power consumption with-out SiRFaware™, when positioning takes longer.

150mW with GPS/GlonassFor applications which must supply highlyreliable data in critical situations, energy effi-ciency is of lower priority. In such cases it oftenmakes sense to accept higher power consump-tion. Thus when using a combined GPS /Glonass module such as the Fastrax IT600, thepower consumption increases with the num-ber of channels which the module actively uses

for satellite reception. At the same time, thequality of the positioning increases. Up to 32channels can be received in parallel. During atest conducted in Paris, it was possible toreceive 21 channels simultaneously. As theIT600 can also receive signals from the Galileosystem, the 32 channels will be exploited tothe full when this satellite system is put intooperation. Altogether the Fastrax IT600 canprocess signals not only from the AmericanGPS, the Russian Glonass and in future fromGalileo, but also from the Japanese QZSS,Chinese Compass and all SBAS systems.

The selection of the GPS module or GNSSmodule (Global Navigation Satellite System), theA-GPS or A-GNSS concept and the right ener-gy saving mode all have a major influence onthe power consumption and the standby timeof a tracking device. “However, this is anythingbut trivial, because there is no such thing as theright GPS module or one uniquely suitable ener-gy saving strategy,” says Harald Naumann. Sobefore starting to design a device, developersshould pose themselves a series of questions:Will a GNSS module that supports GPS be suf-ficient or will a hybrid GPS/Glonass/Galileo benecessary? Does it make sense to use A-GPS?Will interfaces for gyrometers, accelerationsensors, pressure sensors, magnetometers orspeed sensors be useful? Should a suitableprototype be developed first in order to testwhich sensors help most with the positioning?Is one of the five energy saving modes useful,and if so, which? Which antennae are mostsuitable? When answers to all of these ques-tions have been found, the same factorsshould be considered for the GSM/GPRSmodule: Is GSM sufficient? Is GPRS necessary?Can USSD be implemented to lower energyconsumption? How can compliance with SAR,the European R&TTE, the American FCC andPTCRB, the European ATEX (ATmosphèreExplosible) or the Brazilian Anatel standards beachieved? Which energy supply concept orwhich battery should be used? These complexdecision making processes can quickly leaddevelopers without sufficient knowledge ofwireless technology astray. The distributor's experienced product andapplication specialists can provide support tohelp designers navi gate quickly and safely tothe final straight. nwww.rutronik.com

Figure 1:Power consumption on setting up a connection – current peaks over one second, four seconds or longer.

www.epd-ee.eu | September, 2012 | EP&Dee


LED lighting is transforming theway in which light is being usedand opening new opportunitiesfor designers to add intelligentcontrol and colour-mixing to LED-lighting fixtures. DSCs can driveinnovation in applications rangingfrom automotive head-lights andtail-lights, to state-of-the-art lightshows which can turn a publicbuilding into a work of art.The unique combination of effi-ciency, dimming capability andlong life enables LEDs to makecolour-changing lighting fixturesmore efficient, cost-effective andaccessible. The addition of a DigitalSignal Controller (DSC) enablesefficient LED driving and accuratecontrol over colour as well ascommunication with the outsideworld. Together, these featuresgive the designer the freedomto develop highly differentiated,next-generation LED - lightingfixtures.

Higher brightness, highercomplexityLow-power-indicator LEDs are astaple of many products and mostengineers will be familiar withtheir simple design: All they needis a voltage source and a seriesresistor of the right value, to keepthe current of the LED below atypical level of less than 5mA.Connection to a GPIO pin on amicrocontroller gives the designerthe ability to make the LED blink.However, the simplicity of LEDdesign becomes considerablymore complex when stringing

together high-brightness, high-current LEDs with a forward currentin excess of 350mA. Here, thedesigner faces the challenge ofcontrolling the current, despitechanges in temperature and theextreme heat generated by theLEDs themselves.

Intelligent current controlHigh-brightness LEDs need tomaintain a relatively high constantcurrent in order to maintainbrightness and colour. Figure 1demonstrates how the LED’s lumi-nous flux is proportional to theforward current (IF) through the

LED. A constant forward current is,therefore, crucial to achieve aconsistent colour and light out-put. Using a simple resistor inseries with the LED, means that theforward current is determined bythe following equation:

(IF = (VSource-VF) / R)

As the source voltage (VSource) varies,the forward current will change,causing variations in the amount oflight emitted by the LED. The LEDtherefore needs to be driven by apower supply that actively regu-lates the forward current.

Temperature controlTypically, the forward voltage (VF)of the LED will increase as thetemperature increases, even if theforward current is constant andregulated. Figure 2 shows how animproperly regulated forwardcurrent will vary in line with theforward voltage of the LED, anddemonstrates why controlling theforward current through the LED,is more important than controllingthe forward voltage.A lot of heat is generated by thehigh-power LEDs themselves andcan lead to a significant decrease inthe LED’s lifespan and possible pre-mature failures. Actively controllingthe LED’s forward current enablesthe level of heat-sinking to bedetermined for each design, basedon the target forward current andestimated forward voltage. The useof temperature sensors also pro-vides the option of monitoring forpossible overtemperature situations.

Figure 1: Luminous flux is proportional to forward current.

Figure 2: Changes in forward voltage affect the forward current.

Digital signal controllers add intelligent control and communication to LED lighting

by Charlie Ice, Microchip Technology Inc.

Intelligent controlof LED lighting

DESIGN

LEDs


Accurate colour controlThe fact that LEDs can change theirlight output almost instantly, makesthem ideal for light fixtures whichneed to change colour rapidly. Astring of red, green and blue LEDscan be made to create any colour,simply by adjusting the brightnessof each LED. One approach is tosimply raise or lower the forwardcurrent of each LED. The problemwith this is that changing the for-ward voltage not only changes thebrightness, but also slightlychanges the colour of the LED,which is a problem in applicationswhich need accurate colour.An alternative approach is to usea pulsed current which providesthe same dimming effect withoutthe perceived change in colour.Figure 3 shows a dotted red linerepresenting the average pulsedcurrent which creates the changein brightness, whilst maintaining aconstant forward current acrossthe LED so that the perceivedcolour is unchanged.

Digital dimming controlThe use of a Digital SignalController (DSC) greatly simplifiesdimming using the pulsed-currenttechnique. The advanced PWMmodules on many DSCs can beused to generate PWM signalswhich can be used to control the

power stage for the LED. ThesePWM modules feature overrideinputs that can quickly and pre-cisely shut off the PWM outputs,allowing the current to the LED tobe controlled so that the LED canbe dimmed. The amount of dim-ming is quantified by a numberbetween zero and a value thatrepresents full brightness. To set the LED to 50% brightness,a counter would count from zeroto 255 and trigger the PWM over-ride when a count of 128 isreached. The PWM output thenshuts off to remove the currentfrom the LED. When the counterreaches its maximum value of 255,it is reset to 0 and the PWM is re-enabled. The process is repeated to createthe pulsed current which is need-ed to dim the LED, as shown inFigure 4. Typically, a frequency ofover 400Hz is used to ensure thatthe dimming frequency is fastenough to prevent the human eyeseeing the flicker in the LED.

Digital LED drivingIn addition to dimming control, aDSC can provide an active powersupply to control the forwardcurrent to a high-brightness LED. Buck and the boost Switch ModePower Supply (SMPS) topologiescan both be used to power LEDs

and both can benefit from DSCintelligence.A buck topology is used wherethe forward voltage of the LED orstring of LEDs is less than thesource voltage. In this topology,shown in Figure 5, the PWM con-trols the switch (Q) and the volt-age across the sense resistor(Rsns) corresponds to the forwardcurrent of the LED when theswitch (Q) is closed.

The DSC’s comparator is used tocompare the voltage across theresistor (Rsns) against a config-urable internal reference that isproportional to the required for-ward current of the LED. If the sensed voltage is greaterthan the internal reference, theanalogue comparator disables the

PWM’s opening switch (Q), whichcauses the inductor (L) to dis-charge its stored current throughthe diode (D) and the LED.

At the start of the next PWM peri-od, the switch (Q) closes, and theprocess begins again. The DSC’sadvanced features allow thismethod to actively regulate theforward current through the LEDwithout using any CPU overhead.

A boost topology is used wherethe forward voltage of the LED orstring of LEDs is greater than thesource voltage, as shown in Figure 6.

Like the buck topology, the PWMcontrols the switch (Q) and theforward current is monitoredacross the sense resistor (Rsns).

Figure 4:Digital control for dimming.

Figure 5:Buck topology for driving

an LED or string of LEDs.

Figure 6:Boost topologyfor LED driving.

Figure 3:Pulsing the forward current to change perceived brightness.

DESIGN

LEDs


The ADC module on the DSC samples the volt-age across the sense resistor, which correspondsto the forward current of the LED. This value isthen used by a Proportional Integral (PI) controlloop, executed in software on the DSC, to adjustthe duty cycle to the switch (Q), based on theADC reading and a software reference value cor-responding to the required current. By imple-menting the PI control loop in software the DSCprovides the flexibility to use a wide variety ofcontrol-loop methods. Minimising CPU overheadfor the PI control loop also means that the DSCcan control multiple LED strings and still have suf-ficient headroom to support additional features.

Digital communicationA DSC has enough processing capability to intel-ligently control the LED fixture whilst, at the sametime, implementing a communication protocolwithout the need for a separate communicate-and-control device. The DMX512 lighting-con-trol protocol, for example, uses standard one-waycommunication, via one master and multipleslaves, to send commands to individual lightingfixtures at a rate of 512 bytes of data per packetand with individual addressing to each device ornode. High-speed processing enables a DSP toexecute the fast control loop, such as the PI con-troller for the boost converter, as its top priority,whilst running the communication protocol, suchas DMX512, in the background. Since the com-munication is implemented in software, it is notlimited to a single protocol, but can allow the fix-ture to be controlled using any communicationscheme.

Cutting the learning curveLike any new technology, digital LED control pres-ents designers with a steep learning curve whichcan be eased by using digitally-controlled LED-lighting kits, reference designs and applicationnotes. These typically include free source codeand hardware documentation, and can also offerinterchangeable power stages to support differ-ent power topologies. Microchip’s DM330014LED Lighting Development Kit, for example, fea-tures LED-driver daughter-cards which allowdesigners to experiment with multiple driverstages on the same board.

The high efficiency and instant dimming capabilityof LED will ensure that this technology will contin-ue to drive innovation in colour-mixing and otherlighting applications. By adding the intelligentcontrol and communication provided by a DSC,designers can equip LED-lighting fixtures withenhanced features and functionality which candeliver high levels of differentiation and consi -derable wow-factor in lighting applications. nwww.microchip.com

The Microchip name and logo, and dsPIC, are regis-tered trademarks of Microchip Technology Inc. inthe U.S.A., and other countries. All other trademarksmentioned herein are property of their respectivecompanies.

DESIGN

LEDs

Silicon Laboratories Inc., introduced a fami-ly of high-performance 8-bit microcon-trollers (MCUs) featuring the company’slatest mixed-signal breakthrough, an inte-grated temperature sensor with best-in-class accuracy over an extended tempera-ture range and without the need for cali-bration. Offering a unique mix of integrat-ed high-performance analog peripheralsand a very fast 8051 CPU in a compactpackage, the new C8051F39x/7x MCUfami ly provides an optimal solution foroptical transceiver modules, sensor inter-faces and brushless dc motor applicationsfor fans, dryers, vacuum cleaners andremote control toy vehicles. Many consu -mer and industrial applications requirehighly accurate temperature sensors toadjust for behavior shifts over temperaturefor on-board components such as sensors,

lasers or power sources. The C8051F39x/7x MCUs’ on-chip temperature sensorprovides ±2°C accuracy through an extend-ed temperature range (up to 105°C) with-out the need for calibration. Providing fivetimes higher accuracy than competing in-class MCUs, the C8051F39x/7x family impro -ves temperature compensation routines,resulting in better end-product reliability.

SILICON LABORATORIESwww.silabs.com/8bit-mcu

Silicon Labs Microcontrollers Deliver Best-in-Class Temperature Sensing accuracy

Silicon Laboratories Inc. introduced twonext-generation EZRadio® wireless ICsdesigned to simplify the addition of high-performance wireless connectivity to cost-sensitive embedded applications. The newEZRadio Si4455 transceiver and Si4355receiver products combine market-leadingadvances in size, performance and low-power operation with easy-to-use devel-opment tools. The EZRadio ICs are wellsuited for a variety of wireless applicationssuch as remote controls, automotiveremote keyless entry (RKE), home andbuilding automation, security and lightingcontrol, wireless sensor networks, andhealth and fitness devices.Adding RF connectivity to embeddedapplications can be a complex, costly andtime-consuming process. Silicon Labs’ newEZRadio products make it easy and cost-effective for developers to incorporatebidirectional and one-way RF links into

their products without performancetrade-offs. By reducing the barriers towireless development, the EZRadio familycan help expand the use of high-perform-ance wireless connectivity in embeddeddesigns. Covering the 283-350 MHz, 425-525 MHz and 850-960 MHz frequencybands, the Si4x55 devices offer +13 dBmoutput power and -116 dBm sensitivity,enabling them to deliver significantly bet-ter range than other sub-GHz solutions.

SILICON LABORATORIESwww.silabs.com/pr/EZRadio

Silicon Labs Eases Wireless Embedded Design with Next-Generation EZRadio® ICs

Silicon Laboratories Inc. introduced a fami-ly of advanced AM/FM receivers tuned forthe high-end consumer and professionalaudio equipment market. The new Si477xAM/FM receivers provide industry-leadingRF performance and exceptional configura-bility while reducing system cost and com-plexity for consumer audio/video receivers(AVRs), FM receiver monitors and pro-audio receivers. To optimize audio per-formance, high-end consumer and pro-audio equipment makers typically builddiscrete AM/FM receiver designs frommanually tuned inductors and multipleactive components. These complicated,

hand-crafted receiver designs result in lim-ited configurability, fewer end-customerfeatures, higher cost, and extensive manu-facturing overhead and test time.

SILICON LABORATORIESwww.silabs.com/pr/radio-receiver

Silicon Labs Tunes into Audiophile market with High-Performance Radio Receivers


DESIGN

LIGHTING

by Nikolai Schnarz, Product Sales Manager, Rutronik

An audiovisual innovationfor rest and recuperationFor the promotion of healing processes,well-being and relaxation

Whether at home, in the office, hotel, spa or gym, in a hospital or adoctor's surgery – with one click illumotion opens up magnificent naturalscenes, underwater worlds, works of art or real surroundings.Imagination knows no limits. Everything counts that appeals to the senses.

adieu tristesse thanks to the open sky view of slowly moving clouds


DESIGN

LIGHTING

Isn't that something that everybody experi-ences at some time or other? One is physicallyexhausted, but the mind is preoccupied with athousand things and one's soul just wants to findsome peace. High time to allow oneself a littlerelaxation - in beautiful surroundings, pleasantlywarm and in comfort. But there's no time to takethat sort of break? Welcome to the wellness-world of illumotion! This innovative multi-sensesystem, with animated images, high-definitiondisplays and a brilliant multi-channel audioexperience simply opens up the senses.

Without having to invest a lot of effort, it isposs ible to transform rooms in an astoundingway - one feels as if one has been spirited awayinto another world. In combination with indivi -dually adjustable sound, light and other sensoryeffects, it creates perfect audiovisual illusions.

Amazingly realistic 'surroundings'The more hectic our world becomes, the moreimportant it is to have somewhere to 'takerefuge', relax, take time to listen to one's innervoice, and just to be. The illumotion systemcarries one off into a relaxing environment,and at the same time stimulates one's sensoryperceptions. This produces a selective reduc-tion in stress levels. That makes it the idealchoice for so-called deceleration rooms.These are becoming more and more commonin large companies seeking to combat or evenprevent the burn-out syndrome. With an illu-motion system such a room could be com-pletely windowless, and yet the users wouldhave the impression of having a wonderfulview, for instance of lush, green woods withmighty trees swaying in the wind and birds

twittering all around. Or a long sandy beach,with the sound of the sea and the rustling ofpalm leaves. According to the main motif, theatmosphere is enhanced by changing colourand light moods as desired. The fact that specific colour schemes have cer-tain effects on people's moods is now an esta -blished factor in light and colour therapies.Colours can be soothing or stimulating as thecase may be, and this can be used to divertattention away from illness so as to promotehealing processes. illumotion is equipped with a

simple control system so that themes andcolours can be changed easily. The therapistuses a touchpad to make the required settingsfor the next patient, and in no time the room'sambience is tailored to the next patient's needs. Healing processes often have to cope withpatients' experience of medical treatment,hospital atmospheres and clinical, frighteningrooms. But this need not happen - being at thereception desk or in a waiting room canappear literally 'in a different light'. The sun canbe seen rising through the window; it floodsthe landscape in orange hues, morning mistsrise gently from the meadows, and birdsongcan be heard in the background. This sort of scene could also be very helpful ina recuperation room following an operationwith full or local anaesthetics. Today, more andmore attention is being paid to the psycholo -gical condition of patients in intensive care,including measures to promote a patient-friendly atmosphere. This is where the innova-tive multi-media system can play a major role.For instance, ceiling panels can extend thepanorama upwards. The patient can see the

open sky, e.g. with slowly moving cloudsappropriate to the time of day. Or viewsthrough a 'window' show a peaceful land-scape. Welcome diversions that not only acti-vate the senses and perhaps help to allaypatients' fears, but also encourage the body'sown healing capacities. To ensure that the visual experience is com-pletely authentic, the effects must take all thesenses into account. In visual terms, this meansachieving perfect simulation of a real view,using maximum definition on each individual

display of the illumotion installation. Thewhole scope of the scenery in question can beenhanced using subtle lighting moods. For theacoustic effects, the illumotion multi-channelsound system gives one the feeling of beingright there in the middle. Other sensory expe-riences involving scents, climatic effects andthe movement of the wind can easily be syn-chronised via the integrated control system.

Perfect harmonisationThe basic components of the multi-sense illu-motion system are a theme package, multi-channel audio technology, hardware for thebase and control units as well as high-resolu-tion displays. This is where the cooperationwith the component distributor Rutronik andits subsidiary Rusol (system distributor for PVand LEDs) is of paramount importance. Rusol isa specialist for the marketing of trend-settingproducts, and that is exactly right for illumo-tion. Rutronik supplies the hardware compo-nents, such as displays, and engineering servic-es to illumotion, and Rusol the ready-madelighting products.

illumotion multi-sense system generates a calming atmosphere in waiting areas


Then, Rusol markets the illumotion system inthe form of a system solution. The themes can be selected from the precon-figured 'multi-sense areas' panorama, ambience,aquaria or art gallery. On request, customisedthemes can be created using state-of-the-artmulti-HD techniques. Following ultra-high reso-lution filming with special cameras, the themesare produced using 4K technology, which hastwice the familar full-HD resolution of 1080p. All the programmed elements for lighting,sound and audio are stored on the base unit.This 'player' for the themes stored on flashcardcontrols coordinates up to four displays.

Additional displays can easily be added viaextension units. Theme selection is via an RFIDreader. The solid state media players in thebase unit function without a conventionaloperating system, making them resistant toviruses, hacking, other manipulation or faultyoperation. The technology can be started andstopped by simply switching the power sup-ply on and off without suffering any data loss.

In doing so, the power consumption is a maxi-mum of 50 watts e.g. with a base unit for fourdisplays. As an option, control via WLAN andiPad or iPhone is possible. To display the themes, illumotion relies onrobust full-HD industrial screens. Without them,it would not be possible to exploit the brilliant4K technology to the full. Also, operation on a24/7 basis requires high-performance displaysinstead of simple TV screens, which would notbe able to cope with such a constant strain.illumotion advises dimensions of between 47‘‘and 60‘‘ for panorama installations. What sizeis actually best depends on the distance

between the display and the observer. If this isjust one or two metres, the display should notbe larger than 47‘‘ because the pixels are thensmaller and the image therefore appearssharper. At greater distances, 60‘‘ displays canbe used which very closely approximate thesize of real windows. The displays used can be operated in bothlandscape and portrait format.

For each display configuration, the originalthemes are time-consumingly separated intoindividual full HD videos with 4K native resolu-tion. These are then recomposed as a singletheme by means of synchronous playback bythe base unit on the appropriately configureddisplays. Due to the high resolution of the dis-plays, interpolation of the 4K theme even makesit possible to create a setup out of a total of 9displays (3×3) in landscape format or 5 displaysin portrait format (5×1). Then the theme is ‘only’represented with 1280×720 pixel image defini-tion, but this is still an HD format.In addition to the multiple, multi-synchronousplayback of the HD videos, the system canenhance the current theme with the aid ofrealistic multi-channel surround audio, andalso control other devices such as lighting,scent, wind and climate generators. The sys-tem is modular and individually customisable.This moves illumotion system into the afford-able price range.

The right frame for every pictureAny picture needs the right frame - and thatapplies to the illumotion views as well. As wellas the themes themselves, the customerschoose how the illusory world is to be framed.There are standard frames available in black,white or silver. The corners can be round orsquare. There may be one or two cut-out sec-tions, which in turn can be rounded or square.Front screens can be put in place in seconds bysimply snapping them onto the permanentlymounted installation frame. It goes withoutsaying that the surface finish of the frames canbe adapted individually to fit a given roomambience. And in order to enhance the realis-tic effect of the virtual aquarium still further,illumotion has come up with a very special fea-ture: In addition to the porthole effect via afront cover with two round cut-outs, there isan illuminated tank of real, aerated water. It hasdouble-glazed walls that are filled with water,and a controllable system causes air bubblesto rise up as well - the illusion is practicallyindistinguishable from nature. Pure relaxationthanks to 'all-round illusion'.

Optional boxFull-HD means 'full high-definition' and usuallyrefers to the property of an HDTV compliantdevice to be able to display the highest HDresolution currently available in the consumersector: 1920 × 1080 pixels. 4K technology(4096 × 2160 pixels) is four times sharper andmore brilliant, and thanks to the digital ren-dering the sharpness remains constant. Thehigh data transfer rates involved in the displayof digital video or film material make itsstorage and transmission more complex andexpensive. Data compression reduces both theimage and sound data quantities. This is per-formed with the aid of a so-called codec (com-pressor/decompressor). nwww.rutronik.com

interesting fictional views keep patients' sensoryperception occupied

DESIGN

LIGHTING


INDUSTRY NEWS

ACTIVE COMPONENTS

XP Power announced the JCK60series of highly efficient metalcased 60 Watt DC-DC convertersaimed at a broad range oftelecommunications, networkingand industrial applications.Measuring only 50.8 x 50.8 x10.16 mm (2 x 2 x 0.4 inches), thecompact convection cooledJCK60 has a high power density of37.5 Watts per cubic inch and hasno need for any forced air cool-ing, additional heat sinking orbaseplate cooling. The single output JCK60 seriesaccommodates a 2:1 input voltagerange and includes undervoltagelockout. Models are available witheither a 24 VDC (18 – 36 VDC) or48 VDC (36 – 75 VDC) nominalinput, and outputs cater for thepopular voltages of 3.3, 5, 12 or15 VDC. An output trim functionallows the adjustment of outputvoltage of +/- 10% of nominal andremote sense compensates fordrops in voltage at the load.The converter is capable of oper-ating in most environments andacross a wide range of tempera-tures from – 40 to + 85°C. Full out-put power is available up to +40°C without derating. A remote on/off input provides an

external control of the output andcan be used to sequence start-upprocedures. Overvoltage, over-load and continuous short circuitprotection features are standardacross the range. All models havean input to output and input/out-put to case isolation of 1,600 VDC.The units meet EN55022 level Aconducted and radiated emis-sions with no external compo-nents necessary.The JCK60 is available fromFarnell, element14, approvedregional distributors, or directfrom XP Power and comes with a 3year warranty.

XP POWER www.xppower.com

Convection cooled 60 W DC-DC converter achieves92% efficiency

Designed as cable interfaces withelectrical isolation for all 1:1 turnsratio Ethernet transceivers the82FB series magnetic modulesfrom YDS are now available atMSC. Optimised for 1000 Base-Tthese modules also offer out-standing performance at 10/100MHz. They support four pairs ofcategory 5 UTP cables. The 82FB series magnetic mod-ules are specified with an isola-tion of 1500 Vrms minimum andfully meet or exceed the specifi-cations of the IEEE802.ab stan-dard 1000 Base-T. The most asked for magneticconfigurations for 1:1 turns ratiotransceivers are standard pro -ducts. Other configurations canbe made to customer specifica-tions. Common features are lowinsertion loss, high return loss,excellent common mode sup-

pression and low cross talk from -40 °C to +85 °C. The 82FB series magnetic mod-

ules measure just 27.81 x 12.19 x7.24 mm. The optimised bottompotted package ensures aremarkably reduced stress of theinternal connections during tem-perature variations resulting in aconsiderably increased reliability.The 82FB magnetic modules arerecognized by UL 60950-1.


Ethernet Magnetic Modules optimized for 1000 Base-T

MSC now offers a lineup of fivelow-loss and compact P-channelMOSFETs from Renesas Electronics.The MOSFETs are optimized foruse in charge control switches forlithium-ion secondary batteriesand power management switchesfor power supply switching withAC adapters. The new devicesfeature an on-resistance that isapproximately half that of previ-ous products and a significantlyreduced package size that isabout one third as large com-pared with earlier MOSFETs.At the top of the range is theμPA2812T1L P-channel MOSFETwith a typical on-resistance of 4.2mΩ and provided in a compact3.3 mm x 3.3 mm HVSON pack-age. In many cases, the low onresistance also means a reductionin the number of componentsrequired. Further significantspace saving is achieved with the

considerably more compactpackage, which is about one thirdthe size of the previously usedconventional SOP-8 package.Furthermore, the HVSON pack-age is designed to allow heatfrom inside the package to bedispersed to the mounting boardvia the exposed lead frame.Thanks to this highly efficientheat dispersion, it is possible todesign, for example, lithium-ionbattery packs that are significant-ly more compact.


Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.announces a 40G transmitterchipset that provides data cen-ters with 4× the data throughput,at very low power, and in littlemore space than conventionalsingle-channel alternatives. Thenew 4-channel 40GBASE-LR4QSFP+ chipset comprises theMAX3948 DC-coupled laserdriver and the DS4830 opticalmicrocontroller.

Data centers and data communi-cation networks need to signifi-cantly increase data density whilestaying within their already con-strained power budgets. Maxim’s

QSFP+ transmitter solutionaddre sses both challenges. TheQSFP+ modules supply 4× thedata throughput in only 1.5× thearea of a single-channel SFP+solution. Equally important,Maxim’s chipset enables 4 ×10Gbps QSFP+ mo dules to con-sume less power per channelthan single SFP+ modules.Service providers and networkoperators can now enjoy thebenefits of a low-power solutionthat extends system life, reducesoperational expense, and con-serves valuable energy resources.

MAX3948 Key Advantages:• Consumes less than 2W for 4transmit channels, enabling lessthan 3.5W QSFP+ module powerconsumption. • DC-coupled laser interface(patent-pending, applicationnumber 13/352,011) reducespower consumption and externalcomponent count.

MAXIM INTEGRATED PRODUCTSwww.maxim-ic.com

Maxim’s 40G Chipset Reduces Power Consumptionand Boosts Data-Center Throughput

Five new P-channel MOSFETs with a low on-resistance of 4.2 mΩ in a compact 3.3 mm × 3.3 mmHVSON package


INDUSTRY NEWS

ACTIVE COMPONENTS

Integrated Device Technology,Inc. (IDT®), announced the indus-try’s first NVM Express (NVMe)enterprise flash memory con-troller with native support forPCIe® Gen 3. IDT’s NVMe flashcontroller family provides astandards-based solid-statedrive (SSD) solution, enablingstorage and server originalequipment manufacturers(OEMs) to overcome latencyand throughput bottlenecksinherent to legacy SAS/SATA-based SSD designs. IDT’s new flash memory con-troller family consists of twoversions: 16-channel with PCIe x4Gen 3 (89HF16P04AG3) and 32-channel with PCIe x8 Gen 3(89HF32P08AG3). The flash con-trollers are designed to fullycomply with the NVMe standard– a standard that defines an opti-mized register interface, com-mand set, and feature set forPCIe SSDs. The goal of the stan-

dard is to help enable the broadadoption of PCIe-based SSDs,and to provide a scalable inter-face that realizes the perform-ance potential of SSD technologynow and into the future. This

eliminates the need for OEMs toqualify multiple SSD drivers, facil-itating the widespread use ofPCIe SSDs and helping bring tomarket dramatic improvementsin storage latency, throughput,power consumption and cost.

INTEGRATED DEVICE TECHNOLOGYwww.idt.com

MSC now offers the L16GLONASS/GPS module fromQuectel. The L16 module enablessimultaneous GPS and GLONASSopen service L1 reception. It isthe first module from Quecteldeveloped especially for theRussian and Eastern Europeanmarkets. The L16 module isbased on STMicroelectronics’Teseo II single-chip positioningdevice. With 2 fast acquisitionchannels and 32 tracking chan-nels, the L16 can acquire andtrack any mix of GPS and GLONASS signals. Furthermore, foreven higher performance, the L16supports Self Trained AssistedGPS (ST AGPS) technology. Through the simultaneous use ofGPS and GLONASS signals - theGlobal Navigation SatelliteSystem (GLONASS) is a Russiancounterpart to the U.S. GlobalPositioning System (GPS) - not only can the Time To First Fix(TTFF) be reduced, but with thehigher number of visible satel-lites, positioning accuracy also

increases to up to 1.5 m. With acurrent consumption of 110 mAduring acquisition and 95 mA in

the tracking operation as well as awide operating temperaturerange of -40 °C to +85°C, the L16GLONASS/GPS module is suitedfor use in a wide range of con-sumer, automotive and industrialapplications. Two UART inter-faces and the support of activeand passive antenna systemsenable simple implementation ofthe module. The L16 modulecomes in a compact 22.4 mm x 17mm × 3 mm form factor.


First GLONASS/GPS module from Quectel developed especially for the Russian and Eastern European markets

IDT Introduces Industry’s First NVM ExpressEnterprise Flash Controller

Power Integrations, maker of theworld’s most efficient, longest-lasting off-line LED driver ICs,today announcedtwo new addi-tions to itsLinkSwitch™-PHIC family. Thenew devices allowcommercial light-ing applicationsup to 75 W tobenefit from sin-gle-stage design,d r a m a t i c a l l yreducing BOMcost and enablinga smaller driver with very highefficiency. LNK410EG (dimming) andLNK420EG (non-dimming) pro-vide a constant-current outputwith a PF- corrected and lowTHD input. The capabilities ofthe new devices are showcased inRDR-290, a reference designdescribing a single-output driverfor high-bay lighting.

RDR-290 is 92.2% efficient at 230VAC for a 75 W output designwhile easily meeting EN61000-3-

2 class C limits. Power factor isabove 0.95. No primary high-voltage electrolytic bulk capaci-tor is required, making lifetimesof 50,000 hours practical, even inchallenging outdoor environ-ments and at high ambient tem-peratures.

POWER INTEGRATIONS www.powerint.com

CML Microcircuits, a leader inthe design, development andsupply of low-power analogue,digital and mixed-signal telecom-munication semiconductors, hasexpanded its DuraTALK digitalvoice processor range with therelease of a new professionalradio low bit-rate 2.4kbpsvocoder. The CMX7262 is a high-performance low bit-rate vocoder for profes-sional two-way radio,providing market-lead-ing crystal clear voiceand excellent perform-ance in real-life radiooperation. This is achieved throughthe use of the lateststate-of-the-art voicecoding technologycalled "Tri-Wave Excited LinearPrediction" (TWELP), developedby the digital voice codingexperts at DSP Innovations.The CMX7262 TWELP vocoderprovides a highly-integratedsolution with optimised signal

processing ensuring lowestpower consumption. Voice ishandled in 20ms frames ensuringcompatibility with recogniseddigital PMR standards as well asCML Microcircuits’ range of digi-tal PMR baseband processors.Supporting the voice codingfunction is a robust forward errorcorrection (FEC) scheme, an

important feature to mitigateerrors inherent when transmittingover narrowband radio channelsin challenging conditions.

CML MICROCIRCUITSwww.cmlmicro.com

CML’s new TWELP Vocoder for Crystal Clear VoiceCMX7262 – Professional Radio Vocoder

Power Integrations Introduces 75 W Single-StageDriver for LED Lighting

INDUSTRY NEWS

PASSIVE COMPONENTS


AVX Corporation, a leading man-ufacturer of passive componentsand interconnect solutions, hasexpanded its SkyCap® SR Series toinclude a multilayer ceramiccapacitor rated at 10μF/50V in anX7R dielectric (±15% from -55° to+125°C). Designated the SR655C106KAR, the new SkyCap capaci-tor features a formed lead for sta-ble placement on the printed cir-cuit board, is RoHS compliant, andis ideal for several applications,including telecommunications, po -wer supplies,home securitysystems, auto-motive, aero-space, and me -dical electronics.“The newSkyCap Seriescapacitor offershigher capaci-tance in a robustdesign, whichincreases thetypes of applications that it com-plements while providing cus-

tomers with the proven technolo-gy and reliability for which thisproduct line is known,” said DanLane, marketing manager at AVX. Maximum physical dimensions forthe new SkyCap SR Series capaci-tor are 0.3” wide × 0.4” high (seat-ed) × 0.15” thick. Packaged inbulk, the SR65 capacitor is avail-able in 1,000 piece quantities. It isalso available in 2,000 piece quan-tities in tape and reel or ammopackaging. Lead time is stock to11 weeks

AVX CORPORATIONwww.avx.com

AVX expands leaded SkyCap® capacitor offering toinclude 10μF/50V rating in X7R dielectric

AVX Corporation has developeda multilayer organic RF inductorin a 0402 case size that offershigh current, in a small footprint.Providing high current and highself-resonance, the RoHS-compli-ant device features an inductancerange of 1nH to 32nH.“Based on its patented multilayerlow loss organic (MLO™) technolo-gy, these new inductors representa paradigm shift from traditionalceramic and thin film passive SMDcomponents,” said LarryEisenberger, product managerat AVX. “Since Copper OrganicInductors (COIs) are polymerbased and use high conductivitycopper interconnects in a multilay-er fashion, the ability to fabricatethese components on large areasubstrates and in laser-direct imag-ing allow for improved cost versusLTCC and Thin Film Technologies.”The low profile 0402 RF inductoralso offers high SRF (self-resonantfrequency), and can support fre-quencies well above 1GHz.

These advanced devices areexpansion matched to printedcircuit boards, allowing forimproved reliability.

The 0402 inductor is ideal for RFpower amplifiers, low noiseamplifiers, filter networks andMRI systems. It can operatebetween, -55°C to +125°C andoffers a 100% tin finish. Lead timeis of stock to eight weeks.


AVX’s revolutionary multilayer organic (MLO™) highcurrent inductors now in 0402 size

Murata announced the additionof the DMG series to the compa-ny’s line of thin, low-resistance,electrical double-layer capacitors(EDLCs). The DMG supercapaci-tors, which provide high powerback-up, achieve high reliabilitywith a five-year life span at 70°C,making them an ideal choice forenterprise solid state drive (SSD)manufacturers and telecom “lastgasp” applications. Smart meters are also a key appli-cation for the DMG series as thefull operating temperature rangeis – 30°C to + 85°C.Murata’s DMG series offershigh voltage with very lowequivalent series resistance(ESR) all within a miniatur-ized, yet robust package.Available in 2.1V single-celland 4.2V double-celloptions, the 2.1V provides anominal capacity of 700mFwith a profile of only 1.4mm andan ESR at 1kHz 70mΩ. The 4.2Vdevice has a nominal capacity of350mF at 2.8mm thickness and130mΩ ESR at 1kHz.The innovation behind Murata’shigh performance DMG EDLC isbased on active carbon technology.

Unlike traditional energy storagedevices, the carbon, which is usedas an electrode, without employ-ing a chemical reaction, leads tothe longer life cycle. Also, thecapacitance is directly related tothe surface area of the active car-bon, giving the DMG series highcapacitance values in a small andlow profile design. Measuringonly 20.5mm × 18.5mm × 1.4mm,which leads the industry in com-pact packaging, Murata’s EDLCseries is designed for extendedtemperature applications. Supercapacitors play a role in

energy conservation applications,from memory backup in homeappliances, mobile phones, infor-mation devices, and energy har-vesting storage systems.

MURATAwww.murata.eu

Mouser Electronics, Inc.announced the arrival ofPanasonic Electronic Components’EEH Series Hybrid AluminumElectrolytic Capacitors. Panasonic Electronic Components’EEH Series is com-prised of the high-temperature, sur-face mount ZAand ZH capacitorsoffering severalcrucial features,including capaci-tance range from10μF to 330μF,voltage range from25Vdc to 63Vdc,low ESR, high ripple current, andthe longest endurance in theindustry by case size. The EEH-ZAseries has an endurance of 5000hours at 105°C with low ESR andhigh ripple current (70% over,

lower ESR than current V-FP). TheEEH-ZC series offers an enduranceof 4000 hours at 125°C, low ESRand high ripple current (85% over,lower ESR than current V-TP). TheEEH-ZA and EEH-ZC Series have

operating temperature rangesfrom -55°C to 105°C and -55°C to125°C, respectively.

MOUSER ELECTRONICSwww.mouser.com

Panasonic EEH Series Hybrid AluminumElectrolytic Capacitors Available at Mouser

High reliability EDLC supercapacitor ideal for extend-ed temperature long-life applications

INDUSTRY NEWS

PASSIVE COMPONENTS


Mouser Electronics, Inc., regardedas a top design engineeringresource and global distributorfor semiconductors and electroniccomponents, today announcedthe arrival of TAIYO YUDENMCOIL™ Metal PowerInductors, the first of a seriesof coil components that usemetallic magnetic materials.TAIYO YUDEN’s MCOIL™Metal Power Inductor seriesis optimal for use as chokecoils for power supply cir-cuits in compact mobiledevices such as smartphones andtablet PCs that are becomingsmaller, thinner, and more feature-rich. The two product classes ofthe MCOIL™ series, the wire-wound chip power inductorMAMK2520 and metal core SMDpower inductor MDMK 2020,combine with TAIYO YUDEN'sadvanced process technologyalready (established in the BR andNR series) to achieve the best-in-

class DC bias characteristics in theindustry as well as size reduction.MAMK 2520T2R2M (inductancevalue 2.2μH, saturation current2300mA) and MDMK2020T2R2M (inductance value 2.2μH,

saturation current 2000mA) offerhigher saturation current thanexisting TAIYO YUDEN products.With its broad product line andunsurpassed customer service,Mouser caters to design engi-neers and buyers by deliveringWhat’s Next in advanced tech-nologies.

MOUSER ELECTRONICSwww.mouser.com

The Optoelectronics group ofVishay Intertechnology, Inc. intro-duced the industry's first remotecontrol code learning IC to inte-grate signal detection and pro-cessing into one component.Optimized for universal remotecontrollers, the VSOP98260 sim-plifies the code learning processby amplifying and shaping thesignal received by the infraredemitter already present in thesedevices. The VSOP98620 alsocan be used in tablet PCs andsmartphones that are enabledwith an infrared emitter.In order to transmit valid com-mands, universal control devicesmust learn the modulation fre-quency and pulse patterns foreach appliance being controlled.The most intuitive method forteaching them the correct code isto use the appliance's remote con-trol, placing it nose-to-nose withthe universal controller. When akey is pressed, the infrared emit-ter transmits the pulses associatedwith this function and the univer-

sal controller receives the codeand stores it in memory. Before the VSOP98260, signaldetection and processing func-tions for code learning in universalcontrol devices required discretesolutions. By combining thesefunctions into one component,the IC released today simplifiesdesigns in these devices, savingspace and reducing overall costs.

The output from the VSOP98260accurately corresponds to the car-rier frequency and data burstlength of the input signal whilebeing immune to noise from otherlight sources such as compact fluo-rescent lamps.

VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGYwww.vishay.com

Vishay Intertechnology Unveils Industry's FirstRemote Control Code Learning IC to IntegrateSignal Detection and Processing in One Device

TAIYO YUDEN MCOIL™ Metal Power Inductors Now Available at Mouser

Rutronik announces a new pow-dered-iron-based, WPC-compli-ant (Wireless Power Consortium)receiving coil for the wirelesscharging of 5Vportable electron-ics from Vishay.Optimized for thewireless chargingof 5 V portablee l e c t r o n i c s ,Vishay’s newIWAS-3827 EC-50powdered- iron-based, WPC-com-pliant receiving coil provides adurable construction, high per-meability shielding, and high effi-ciency greater than 70 % for Rxapplications to 10 W. Withdimensions of 38 mm by 27 mm,the device is 33 % smaller thanthe standard 48 mm by 32 mmIWAS-4832FF-50 Rx coil. For wireless power base stationsand receivers, the IWAS-3827EC-50’s high-saturation powderediron is not affected by permanent

locating magnets, and the deviceblocks charging flux from sensi-tive components or batteries. As an alternative to Ferrite-based

solutions – which can saturate inthe presence of a strong magne -tic field – the IWAS-3827EC-50offers a magnetic saturation of 50% at 4000 gauss. Besides it has aninductance of 10,7 μH at 200 kHzwith ± 5% inductance toleranceas well as 183 mΩ DCR at +25°C.10mm of 50mm lead length aretinned.

RUTRONIKwww.rutronik.com

AVX Corporation, a leading man-ufacturer of advanced passivecomponents and interconnectsolutions, has introduced a newline of polypropylene dielectricDC link film capacitors.Designated the FB Series, the 2-leaded capacitors feature a volt-age rating of 550-1200V, acapacitance range from 0.68-75μF, are RoHS compli-ant, and are available ina range of case sizescontaining over 100new ratings. Ideal appli-cations for the seriesinclude DC power sup-plies and inverters forsolar power, electricdrive, and industrialpower systems.

“The new FB Series DClink capacitors combinelow loss film technology with theself-healing properties of thedielectric to ensure long lifetimesand low thermal losses in powerapplications,” said Chris

Reynolds, technical marketingmanager at AVX. “They also fea-ture a comprehensive capaci-tance/voltage ratings up to 1.2kV.”

Rated for use from -40°C to+100°C, AVX’s FB Series DC linkfilm capacitors are available in 14case sizes with three standardlead pitch options: 27.5mm,

37.5mm, and 52.5mm. Averagelead time is 15 weeks.


AVX introduces new DC link film capacitor series forpower supply and inverter applications

Rutronik: Receiving coil with efficiency greater than 70% from Vishay


INDUSTRY NEWS

SMT

Over the past year, Viscom AG,Hanover, has strengthened itsactivities in the areas of manualand semiautomatic X-ray inspec-tion and intensified the technicaldevelopment of X-rayinspection for the elec-tronics industry. Withthe redesign of the suc-cessful X8011, theinspection system now isavailable in three ver-sions (basic, plus, flex)for fast, effective elec-tronics assembly inspec-tion. Particular attentionwas placed on simpleand fast operation. In the contextof these future-oriented develop-ments, sales activities also werestrengthened. With its own devel-opment team, production andsales, Viscom is well-equipped toquickly react to market demands.Thus, the X8011 inspection sys-tem has undergone further devel-opment for fast and effective elec-tronics assembly inspection. Withits superb image quality, simpleand fast operation, and analyses

directed especially to this area,this system optimally covers therequirements of electronicsassembly production. The risingdemand for solutions for nonde-

structive testing of interior con-nections validates the company inits current orientation. Due to theever-decreasing size of compo-nents and increasing packagingdensity, many electronics manu-facturers no longer can do with-out X-ray inspection. Increaseduse of BGA and QFP componentsmake X-ray penetration necessary.

VISCOM AGwww.viscom.de

Viscom Strengthens Its Manual and SemiautomaticInspection for the Electronics Industry

Multitest, a designer and manufac-turer of final test handlers, contac-tors and load boards used by inte-grated device manufacturers(IDMs) and final test subcontrac-tors worldwide, introduces aSignal and Power IntegrityGlossary. The new glossary, devel-oped by Ryan Satrom, Multitest’sSignal Integrity Engineer, explainsthe major terms and conceptsrelated to power integrity.Power integrity is the discipline ofproviding clean power to thedevice under test (DUT) by mini-mizing noise on the PowerDelivery Network (PDN). It quick-ly is becoming one of the biggestchallenges in test interface design.The influence of power integrityis expected to continue to growin the coming years. It is becom-ing increasingly important for thetest community to understandthe issues related to this andimprove their ability to addressthe challenges of power integrity

that are caused by the test inter-face. For more information or to

download the Signal and PowerIntegrity Glossary, visit the page:www.multitest.com/simulation.

MULTITESTwww.multitest.com

Expert Background:Multitest Introduces Signal Integrity and Power Glossary

Since 1965, Mowden Controls hasbeen developing and producingexceptional electronics for cus-tomers. Long-term relationshipswith suppliers and customers aswell as flexibility and quality havemade the company successful. Tocontinue producing the best,Mowden uses machines from theSwiss manufacturer Essemtec in itsproduction. Based in North Yorkshire (UK),specialty electronics are MowdenControls’ market niche, and thecompany develops and produceslayouts and boards speciallyadapted to customer require-ments. Technology, functionalperformance and quality aremore important than productionspeed because the producedquantities generally are small.Comprehensive ServicesMowden Controls is a subcontrac-tor offering a complete packageof services including develop-ment, design, prototyping andseries manufacturing. Its clients arespecialists in many different indus-tries such as gas, oil, chemical,

print, packaging, measurement,control, medical and laboratory.In many areas, Mowden Controlshas acquired specific experienceand knowledge, on which cus-tomers rely. For example, engi-neers have long-term experiencebuilding reliable circuits forexplosive environments. Suchproducts are used especially inthe gas and oil industry.

ESSEMTEC www.essemtec.com

MIRTEC, announced that itexposed its technologically ad -vanced AOI equipment at IPCMidwest 2012 at the RenaissanceSchaumburg Hotel and Conven -tion Center in Schaumburg, IL. Atthe show MIRTEC featured itsaward-winning MV-3L DesktopAOI System configured with theexclusive 10 Mega Pixel ISIS VisionSystem. This revolutionary opticssystem is comprised of a 10 MegaPixel Top Down camera and aPrecision 13.4 Micron TelecentricCompound Lens. MIRTEC’spatented “Quad Angle LightingSystem” provides four independ-ently programmable zones foroptimal illumination of inspectionareas. The MV-3L also has beenconfigured with four (4) Ten MegaPixel Side-View Cameras as well asMIRTEC’s exclusive Intelli-BeamLaser System. This advanced tech-nology provides: Four-pointheight measurement capability for

co-planarity testing of BGA andCSP devices as well as enhancedsolder paste measurement capa-bility in a cost effective desktopAOI system. A comprehensive

Package Type Library providessimple “Drag and Drop” compo-nent programming. The Automatic Teaching Tool(ATT) software provides automa -tic teaching of component loca-tions using CAD centroid data.

MIRTEC www.mirtecusa.com

Mirtec exposed its technologically advanced auto-mated optical inspection equipment at IPC MIDWEST

Reliable OutsourcingBusiness partnership is a success factor of Mowden Controls

ASC International, a leadingmanufacturer of 3-D solderpaste inspection and automatedoptical inspec-tion (AOI) sys-tems,announcesthat one of itsglobal part-ners,ProductionTechnologiesLtd., demon-strated theVisionProM150 inBooth 2H36 atATE ChinaExpo.VisionPro is the latest in ASCInternational’s line of class-lead-ing 3-D solder paste inspectionsystems. VisionPro incorporatesthe most advanced, rapid 3-Dinspection technology into anew vibration-free platformengineered for performance.

Designed with feature-rich soft-ware including one-click meas-urements, real-time SPC run

charts, customized data reportsand onboard work instructions,VisionPro is the most cost-effec-tive, user friendly and produc-tion-oriented SPI system avail-able in the industry today.

ASC INTERNATIONALwww.ASCInternational.com


INDUSTRY NEWS

SMT

Count On Tools Inc., a leadingprovider of precision componentsand SMT spare parts, announcesanother expansion of its manufac-turing operations at its Gainesville,GA headquarters. The recentexpansion is in response to thegrowing market for SMT nozzlesand consumables as well as theincreased demand for its precisioncontract machining services.According to company represen-tative Zach Shook, COT recentlypurchased a second Zeiss CON-TURA G2 Coordinate MeasuringMachine (CMM). The CONTURAG2 is ideal for small to mid-sizedcompanies that require the bene-fits of high-speed scanning. VASTscanning technology enables qual-ity inspections at maximum speedwith high-quality measuringresults. Process changes are detec -ted at an early stage, high produc-tion quality is ensured and reject-ed parts are reduced. The indus-tries that COT serves count onaccuracy of part specifications andon-time delivery of orders. Thisnew machine will help COT

achieve both. Additionally, thenew machine handles jobs fasterby providing COT with increasedproduction speeds and faster pro-

cessing power for complex partswith tighter tolerances. “This newequipment helps us to check tighttolerance, precision componentsquickly and consistently,” said Shook.

COUNT ON TOOLS INC.www.cotinc.com

Count On Tools Installs Another Zeiss CONTURA G2Coordinate Measuring Machine

Production Technologies Ltd. Exhibited ASC’sVisionPro M150 at ATE China

Multitest, a designer and manu-facturer of final test handlers,contactors and load boards usedby integrated device manufactur-ers (IDMs) andfinal test subcon-tractors world-wide, will exhibitin booth #1185 atthe upcomingSEMICON TaiwanExpo, scheduledto take placeSeptember 5-7,2012 at theTWTC NangandHall in Taipei,Taiwan. Multitestis the leading supplier of high-parallel MEMS test and calibra-tion equipment, packages withmultiple sensors (up to nine DoF)and MEMS in heterogeneous 3Dstacks. At SEMICON Taiwan,company representatives willshowcase the InMEMS solution.The setup allows high parallelMEMS test and calibration. It

combines a standard strip han-dler – Multitest InStrip – and anInMEMS module for up to nineDoF test.

The InStrip can handle bothstrips and packages in carrierswww.multitest.com/InCarrier Thearchitecture of the InStrip ideallyallows configuration for 3D in-process test of TSV partial stacks.www.multitest.com/InStrip3D

MULTITESTwww.multitest.com

Speedprint Technology exhibitedat the IPC Midwest Exhibition &Conference, (August 22-23,2012). Speedprint prides theSP700avi for its simplicity andease of maintenance and lowownership costs. The advancedscreen printer combines Speed -print’s commitment to high per-formance and reliability with allthe necessary features for pro-cessing high-technology sub-strates as standard equipment.The system was designed to copewith the rigors of high-volumeSMT production while incorpo-rating the flexibility needed inhigh-mix, quick product setup andchangeover environments. The SP700avi becomes theSP710avi when it is equipped withthe Automatic Dispense unit(ADu). The Dual Syringe,Automatic Dispense unit (ADu)allows users to eliminate addition-al capital outlay by integrating thisfunctionally into the printer. TheADu defines flexibility from itsease of programming through to

calibration and cleaning. Utilizingthe PCB Gerber file, an operatorcan simply drag any region ofinterest to automatically programvolume deposits of paste or glue.There is no need to spend timeon each deposit site adjusting tooptimize the volume, point and

drag. This means that a completePCB can be programmed for aprototype in just seconds.

SPEEDPRINT TECHNOLOGY www.speedprint-tech.com

Speedprint Exhibited at IPC Midwest

Multitest at SEMICON Taiwan 2012:Leading Solutions for High Parallel Test of SoCs, MEMS and3D Packages


INDUSTRY NEWS

SMT

Horizon Sales, a leading manufac-turers’ representative corpora-tion specializing in the sales andmarketing of premier electronicsassembly equipment,announces that its cus-tomer service and supportis both comprehensive andlong lasting. Since the com-pany’s launch more than 20years ago, its focus hasbeen to serve the needs ofelectronics manufacturingcompanies in the Midwest,providing leading-edgecapital equipment andmanufacturing supplies bybuilding long-term rela-tionships with its principles.Customer service plays aprimary role in this mission.Just as Dave Trail, the company’sprincipal, got a hole-in-one,Horizon Sales prides itself onbringing its best game to cus-tomers every day. This “hole-in-one” mentality gives customersthe confidence they need to knowthat any purchases throughHorizon Sales will be supported

long after the initial sale. This hashelped the company expand itscustomer base to encompass largeOEMs as well as both medium-

and small-sized contract manufac-turers. As evidenced by its linecard, Horizon Sales representsonly the premier suppliers in theindustry and will continue servingits customers’ ever-evolvingneeds.

HORIZON SALESwww.horizonsales.com

Horizon Sales Provides Customers with ‘Hole-in-One’Support and Service

CyberOptics Corporation willfeature its newest range of AOIand SPI systems at the upcomingproductronica India exhibition,scheduled to take placeSeptember 11-13, 2012 inBangalore, India. CyberOptics’unique value-add initiatives suchas one-step SPI/AOI program-ming, AOI-SPI correlation analysisand printer closed-loop feedbackcapability also will be featured.The QX100™ redefines tabletopinspection by combining the per-formance of an in-line inspectionsystem with the flexibility of atabletop system. The system fea-tures CyberOptics’ unique imageacquisition technology, theStrobed Inspection Module (SIM)and is capable of inspecting com-ponent sizes down to 01005. The sleek QX100™ is powered byAI2 (Autonomous Image Inter -pretation), a patented next-gen-eration image analysis techniquethat provides superior defectdetection capabilities, lowest false

call rates and improved clarity ofdefect identification. On the SPI front, CyberOptics willfeature its newest 3-D SPI system,the SE500ULTRA™, designed withan all-new, ultra-fast sensor settinga new benchmark for SPI inspec-

tion speed. The sensor combinedwith CyberOptics’ unique “all-in-one” scan algorithm positions theSE500ULTRA™ to be 30 percentfaster than its predecessor SPI sys-tems with zero compromise onmeasurement accuracy andrepeatability.

CYBEROPTICS CORP.www.cyberoptics.com

CyberOptics to Feature Its Newest Range of AOI andSPI Systems at productronica India

After a strong showing in 2010and early 2011, the SMT equip-ment market posted decliningnumbers in the second half of2011 and the beginning of 2012.At the end of the second quarterof 2012, however, SIPLACE'smarket analysts see first signs of afurther economic upswing. Neworders and deliveries are espe-cially on the rise in China, whichcurrently accounts for roughly 50percent of the global market. Therest of Asia as well as North andSouth America are laggingbehind, but a look at the quarter-ly numbers shows some lightgrowth or stabilization in theseareas as well. However, all in allthe results still remain below lastyear’s level. In light of the uncer-tainties caused by the euro crisis,only Europe exhibits a negativetrend, albeit with signs of a slightslowdown. "To use the famouscomparison, we believe that theglass is half full as far as the globalSMT equipment market is con-

cerned. Although some risksremain, the trend is clearly pointingupward compared with the sec-ond half in 2011, especially inChina. This confirms our medium-term forecast from last fall. We alsosee signs that Southeast Asia aswell as North and South Americawill follow this trend in the second

half of 2012. Because of its region-al problems, Europe is the onlyplace where we remain skepticalregarding a trend reversal anytimesoon," says Stephanie Pepersack,who is in charge of SIPLACE mar-ket intelligence.

ASM ASSEMBLY SYSTEMSwww.siplace.com

Juki Automation Systems announcesthat Schumacher Electric Corporationhas purchased and installed a KE-1080LN High-Speed FlexibleMounter at its plant in Matamoros,Mexico. Schumacher Electricdesigns and produces electronicsassemblies, battery chargers andtransformers. The KE-1080 has afive-nozzle head to handle largerparts and uses a tri-coloredadvanced vision system featuringblue, green and red LEDs for accu-rate placement of fine-pitch ICs,connectors and odd-shaped com-ponents. Additionally, the KE-1080 has an IPC9850 rated speedof 14,100 CPH for chips, and3,400 CPH for IC componentswhen using the advanced lightingsystem. The effective componentplacement range for the KE-1080is 01005 (0402 metric) to 74mm2

or 50 × 150 mm. For the bestresults in repeatability, accuracyand reliability, all Juki machines usethe LNC60 optical centering laserthat is built into the head to easily

measure components while movingfrom the pick to the placementsite. This eliminates the need tomove to a stationary or line scancamera, creating an efficient methodof component measurement cen-

tering. LNC60 is not affected bythe color of a part and easily cantransfer a part profile back to thedatabase.

JUKI AUTOMATION SYSTEMSwww.jukiamericas.com

Schumacher Electric Corporation Installs a KE-1080LN from Juki at Its Matamoros, Mexico Plant

SMT equipment market showing first signs of economic improvement

Outlook cautiously positive

Great start for Invotec Group new MDRecord output in July for leaders in printed circuit board technology

Sales output figures forInvotec reached a record highof over €2.7m in July. TheGroup produces a broadrange of complex, high-relia-bility PCB solutions for clientsin the avionics, aerospace anddefence sectors. New MD, Tim Tatton, who onlytook over in May 2012, previ-ously having been both GroupOperations Director andManager of Operations atTamworth, attributed therecord figures to the winning ofnew programs within its existingcustomer base and the devel-opment of some exciting newclient relationships.Tim Tatton commented: “Thesefigures are great news and theydemonstrate our proven abilityin supplying time critical, hightechnology PCBs. This is veryencouraging against the back-drop of pessimism and uncer-

tainty that continues to weighheavily on the global economy.”The Group also produces PCBsfor use in industrial, medical,telecommunications infrastruc-ture and security sectors.Reliability, quality and consis-tency are essential in these mar-ket sectors; Invotec meet thesedemands by delivering a flexi-ble, committed and competi-tive manufacturing and serviceproposition. Tim Tatton added:“Operationally we have toensure we keep pace with theunderlying demand; it is testa-ment to our philosophy of con-tinuous improvement and theongoing efforts of our staff thatwe continue to deliver on ourpromises.”

INVOTEC GROUP www.invotecgroup.com

Test Interface Boards – Customers AppreciateMultitest Pulse Plating Process for Board FabMultitest, a designer and manu-facturer of final test handlers,contactors and load boards usedby integrated device manufactur-ers (IDMs) and final test subcon-tractors worldwide, announcesthat its Pulse Plating Process pro-vides significant advantages interms of fabrication cost andcycle time. Multitest Pulse Platinghas been released to manufactur-ing for all major board customers.The proprietary Multitest processhas proven market-leading per-formance in various customerapplications.Originally the process was devel-oped to support ultra highaspect ratio requirements at 0.4mm pitch. Multitest has devel-oped a customized platingprocess for small via diameters inhigh layer count PCBs used inATE test. The process allows for.0051" diameter through-holesinto PCBs with up to 40 layers. The Multitest Pulse Plating

Process is applied particularly toBGA and WLCSPs but also can beused for vertical probe applica-tions. It eliminates the need forsequential lamination in most 0.4mm pitch applications. This same

technology is deployed for 0.3mm pitch BGA applications withthrough-hole construction.

MULTITESTwww.multitest.com/pcb

INDUSTRY NEWS

SMT


ODU ROM Manufacturing Str. Fundătura Lânii nr. 22, 550019 Sibiu, Romania

Tel: +40(0)269 206345; Mobile: +40(0)748 144488; Fax: +40(0)269 221006

For general information visit: www.odu.de

For further details please visit the company website - online catalog.

ODU connector systems offer clear benefits

ODU is one of the most innovative and successful manufacturers inconnection systems. We develop and manufacture a broadspectrum of system solutions and custom applications on the basisof turned and stamped contacts for transmitting power, signals andmedia such as gas, light or fluid.From circular connectors with push-pull locking through modularattachable rectangular connectors to robust circular connectors -ODU supplies everything. We offer all of our standard product series with individual customerrelated assembly. This ensures that you get the “complete package”from one source, with no intermediate supplier.Common error sources can be avoided because we have compre-hensive know-how and years of experience in all necessary areas.

Contact:

Email: sales@odurom.ro

www.odurom.ro

INDUSTRY NEWS

CONNECTORS

• Very large number of mating cycles for economical requirements.• Absolute contact reliability.• Ease of use for quick action.• Unmistakable connector position for reliable work.• Easy-to-see recognizable for faultless handling.• High ampacity.

Advantages for the customer• More than 60 years of experience. • Sole-supplier to over 100 companies around the world.• Know- how from approximately 30development contracts each year.• Medium-sized business with a high level of motivation and flexibility.• We make our customers successful.

Everything from one source!


INDUSTRY NEWS

CONNECTORS

ITT Inter connect Solutions isannouncing a new composite con-nector developed specifically forthe aerospace market. Today’smilitary and commercial aero-space manufacturers are undercontinual pressure to reduce theweight of operational aircraft andlightweight components can playa key role in achieving this.Consequently, many OEM’s aremigrating from aluminium to light-weight composite materials for allcomponents. Suitable for bothmilitary and commercial aircraft,the new Mil-DTL 38999 Series IIIcomposite connector is engi-neered using advanced materialsand techniques coupled with ITT’sthirty years of proven intercon-nect design expertise. Marketedunder the ITT Cannon brand, thenew Mil-DTL-38999 Series IIIcomposite connector is on average30% lighter than equivalent stan-dard aluminium interconnects. Fulladvantage has been taken ofrecent improvements in the quali-

fied ‘KJB’ design, which includepart standardisation plus fasterand easier assembly. The new Mil-DTL-38999 Series III compositeconnector includes Mil-DTL-38999/20 Wall Mount Receptaclesand 38999/26 Straight Plugs inboth Class J olive drab cadmiumand Class M electroless nickel.Qualified operational tempera-ture range for Class J is -65°C to

+175°C, and for Class M -65°C to+200°C. Suitable applicationsinclude military and commercialaircraft, avionics systems andunmanned aerospace vehicles.

ITT INTERCONNECT SOLUTIONSwww.ittcannon.com

ITT Interconnect Solutions announces new composite Mil-DTL-38999 Series III connector toreduce aircraft weight

Popular high reliability and highperformance, 3-row Datamateconnectors from Harwin, are nowavailable from stock –‘Commercial Off the shelf ’(COTS). Stocked in 5 differentconfigurations of PCB and cablevariants and in 6 standard ‘mostpopular’ sizes from 18 to 96ways, the 2mm pitch, 3A per con-tact connectors are ideal for usein board to board or cable toboard applications where a highnumber of contacts is required ina small space. The 3 row designprovides a smaller PCB footprintsaving real estate on the PCB. Thecompact cable version savesspace within the equipment.Comments Product Manager,Graham Cunningham: “Eliminatingthe lead time problems often asso-ciated with special ‘made to order’products and enabling a cost savingover special design products.These new standard 3-rowDatamate connectors are well suitedfor use in many markets, including

Industrial, Medical and in particularthe Aerospace & Military marketwhere ‘Commercial off the Shelf ’(COTS) products are preferred tobespoke designs for cost and leadtime reasons.”

A high density connector system,3-row Datamate connectors fromHarwin feature up to 96 high per-formance signal contacts in stan-dard sizes of 18, 27, 36, 54, 60 and96 signal contacts arranged in 3rows. Designed for mating with 22AWG and 24 – 28 AWG wire sizes,the devices are available with ver-tical or horizontal PCB tails.

HARWINwww.harwin.com

High reliability 3-row Datamate connectors fromHarwin now available off the shelf

Under the model designation101110F93H7M410ZA, SUYIN ispresenting a robust 8P8C RJ45jack designed for pin-in-pastethrough-hole reflow (THR)processes. This right-angle recep-tacle with a built-in receiver/trans-mitter filter (transformer module)has two integrated light-emittingdiodes (with yellow, green, andorange indication colors) andexcellent luminance. The trans-ceiver's insertion attenuation isspecified at a maximum of -1.2dBin the 1MHz to 125MHz range.Common-mode rejection is speci-fied at -30dB and crosstalk at -25dB, both in the frequency rangefrom 1MHz to 100MHz. As anoth-er special feature, this RJ45 jackhas an additional power-over-Ethernet (PoE) connection. Thatmakes it possible to eliminate theneed for a separate power supplycable and for a DC power supplyjack on the board when used inapplications for broadband dataconnections in 10/100-Base-T

Ethernet networks, such asrouters, POS systems, telephonesystems, set-top boxes, and manysimilar devices. These unique fea-tures are supplemented by exten-sive shielding measures on thesides and in the upper portion ofthe connector - including the“spring fingers,” which reliablyprevent electromagnetic emissionand reception. The dimensionsare 21.65 × 15.75 × 13.35 (L × W× H mm), and the operating tem-perature range extends from 0°Cto +70°C. In addition, customer-specific variations are availableupon request.

SUYIN CORPORATIONwww.suyin-europe.com

As the interface between thecharging unit and the end device,spring-contact battery connectorsplay a crucial role. In this case, thefocus is not only on the spring con-tacts’ technical specifications –such as the minimum number ofmating cycles, the contact resist-ance or the current-carryingcapacity – but also on the specialshape of the connector housing,which is designed to supportuncomplicated, fast, simple, andreliable connections that ensurestable contact. One good exampleof SUYIN’s flexible productioncapabilities is its 060069MS modelfor use in charging units or basestations. This 4-position verticalspring-contact connector is pre-pared for through-hole mounting.Its contact mounting plate is tiltedslightly from the vertical axis to theinside at an angle of 8° in order tomake it particularly convenient toconnect the device to be charged,without having to sacrifice connec-tion reliability. For the same rea-

son, the charging connector’s sidesare also slanted inward from thevertical axis at a 5° angle. Inside thehousing itself, specially formedplastic ribs serve as a lockingmechanism in order to ensure high

contact reliability, even when theconnector is subjected to vibra-tions. When used in base stations,the connector can also serve as adata connector. Two side-mount-ed guide pins that are offset at anangle provide additional anchor-ing on the carrier board.

SUYIN CORPORATIONwww.suyin-europe.com

SUYIN is offering Spring-Contact Battery Connectorswith Optimized Shape for Ergonomic Charging

THR RJ45 jack from SUYIN with power-over-Ethernetcapabilities, built-in transformer modules and integrated LEDs


DESIGN

SENSORS

Contrary to conventional thermal sensors that onlymeasure temperature of a certain point-of-contact,Grid-EYE, based on Panasonic’s MEMS technology,can measure temperature of the entire specified areawithout any contact; in other words, it is a “contact-less thermopile array sensor”. 64 pixels yield accuratetemperature measurement over a viewing angle of60° provided by a silicon lens. Grid-EYE uses an I2Ccommunication interface, enabling temperaturemeasurements at speeds of 1 or 10 frames/sec. Aninterrupt function is also available.

Product features:• Dimensions: 11,6 × 4,3 × 8,0mm (L × H × W)• Operating voltage: 3,3V or 5.0V (depends on P / N)• Temperature range of measuring object:

-20°C to 100°C (depends on P / N)• Field of view (FoV): 60°• Number of pixels: 64 (vertical 8 × horizontal 8)• External interface: I2C (fast mode)• Frame rate: 10 frames/s or 1 frame/sCompared to single element thermopile sensors orpyroelectric sensors, Grid-EYE offers immense bene-fits, which are highlighted in the following table.

Grid-EYE opens the door to a whole world of applica-tions, ranging from energy savings in the lightingindustry (commercial and public places as well asresidential spaces) to household applications (airconditioners, microwave ovens, etc.); from securitysystems (automatic doors, elevators, ATMs, kiosks,etc) to the medical industry (patient detection andpositioning), and many more.

For more information, please visit: www.built-in-sensors.com

Panasonic Releases the World’s 1st SMTThermopile Array Sensor

Applications:• Occupancy detection• Position detection• Contact-less temperature measurement • Cooking stoves• Microwave ovens• Medical equipment• Measurement, control and regulation of:◦ Air conditioners◦ Heating systems

• Building automation• Intelligent lighting control system• Thermal imaging• Industrial process management and control

Panasonic Electric Works Europe AG, the European headquarters for Panasonic Corporation’sIndustrial Devices business, announces the release of the first ever Surface Mount Technology(SMT) thermopile array sensor, the Grid-EYE. Years of continuous research in infrared sensingtechnology led to the development of a state-of-the-art thermopile sensor that features 64thermopile elements in an 8 x 8 grid format.

Tel. +40 256-201346 Mail [email protected] +40 0256-221036 Web www.oboyle.ro


DESIGN

SENSORS

n Optical sensorsn Sensors for logistic applicationsn Safety at work

n Optical Sensorsn Inductive Sensors

n Color Sensorsn True Color Sensors, Spectrometersn Gloss Sensors

Leuze

Contrinex

Sensor Instruments

n Linear Sensorsn Angle Sensorsn Tilt Sensors

n PLCsn Temperature Controllern Timer

n Flowmetersn Level Indicators and Switchesn Pressure Sensors and Switches

ASM

Selec

Koboldn Linear Solenoidsn Permanent Electromagnets

Westec

HTP

Intertec

Visit our online shopww.oboyle.ro

n Circular connectors M8; M12; M23n Cable and Connectors for Sensorsn Valve Connectorsn Distribution Blocks

n Heavy Duty Industrial Connectorsn Power and Data Transmission Connectorsn Aluminium Junction Boxes

AUTOMATION

Honeywell announced the release of the newLimitless™ Wireless Operator Interface, WOISeries, which expands Honeywell’s Limitless™wireless switch and receiver portfolio by pro-viding a packaged pushbutton controller formanufacturers and OEMs. The WOI Seriesadds a human interface device to the product-driven interfaces of the Limitless™ portfolio.With both momentary and maintained contactoptions, the Limitless™ Series now offers wire-less control from both person and position.Honeywell’s Wireless Operator Interface is acontroller designed to wirelessly turn on andoff equipment (pumps, motors, drives, con-veyors, and other industrial equipment), openor close gates/doors, or provide notification toremote locations. The WOI Series can be usedin rugged industrial environments to notify

appropriate departments when there arequality, machine, material out-of-stock, orother manufacturing issues.“The WOI Series provides a control option forusers looking to avoid the wiring costs, mainte-nance issues, hazards, time and engineering thatcomes with a ‘wired’ push button,” said JosephCitrano, senior global product marketing man-ager, Sensing and Control. “This new deviceexpands Honeywell’s Limitless™ wireless portfoliothat includes monitors, din-rail receivers, globallimit switches, and heavy-duty limit switches.”Designed for flexibility, the user can chooseand install a desired operator (22mm rotaryswitch, key switch, key) or utilize one ofHoneywell’s pushbuttons. It communicatesthrough Limitless™ receivers that provide PLCinputs or relay outputs connected directly to

equipment to turn on LEDs or start / stopindustrial equipment.

HONEYWELLwww.honeywell.com

Honeywell expands Limitless™ Wireless Portfolio with new wireless operator interface pushbutton controller


EUROSTANDARD PRESS 2000

Tel.: +40 31 805 9955

Fax: +40 31 805 9887

[email protected]

www.esp2000.ro

VAT Registration: RO3998003

Company number: J03/1371/1993

EP&Dee (Electronics Products & Design Eastern Europe) is published 8 times per year in

2012 by Euro Standard Press 2000 s.r.l.

It is a free to qualified electronics engineers and managers involved in engineering

decisions. Starting on 2010, this magazine is published only in digital format.

Copyright 2012 by Euro Standard Press 2000 s.r.l. All rights reserved.

© 2012 by Eurostandard Press 2000

EP&DeeSubscriptions:

office@epdee.eu

EP&DeeWeb page:

www.epdee.eu

Group Publisher DirectorGabriel Neagu

Managing DirectorIonela Ganea

AccountingIoana Paraschiv

AdvertisementIrina Ganea

WEBEugen Vărzaru

Contributing editorsRobert Berger Ross Bannatyne

ConsultingMarian BlejanBogdan GrămescuMihai Savu

Asian Reprezentative Taiwan Charles YangTel: +88643223633

[email protected]

Adding to the performance andpopularity of Everlight’s 6.4Wand 8W Chip-on-Board (COB)LED series, one of the highest CRIand highest efficiency COBs onthe market, Everlight ElectronicsCo., Ltd. announces the brandnew and smaller C52 COB LEDseries which is perfectly suitablefor directional and decorativeapplications such as MR lampsand P35 bulbs at LIGHTFAIRInternational 2012 in Las Vegas/

USA.For these typesof applications, anLED light source must exhibitcompact size, high efficiency,

INDUSTRY NEWS

SENSORS

Omron Electronic ComponentsEurope has re-engineered tworelay families specifically toaddress the very specific lowpower and long term reliabilitycharacteristics required for grid-connected solar PV andwind turbine inverters,charge controllers, bat-tery powered UPS back-up systems and similarapplications.Grid tied solar PV invert-ers use pairs of mono-stable grid protectionrelays whose operationis essential to ensure sys-tem and user safety. The keychallenges in the design of theserelays are that their power con-sumption has to be extremelylow yet they need to operatevery quickly when requiredunder hot start conditions.

Omron has re-engineered itsG7L-PV DPST-NO and G8P SPST-NO range specifically to meetthese requirements, with a fastoperate time of typically 20ms,long life and a low power coil.

Both devices address the applica-ble standards which areIEC62109-1, 2 ( July 2011) andVDE0126-1.

OMRON ELECTRONICS COMPONENTS http://components.omron.eu

Efficient, long life Omron relays address renewableenergy systemsOmron Electronic Components

Europe unique new dust proofswitch provides a very cost effec-tive solution for the great manydomestic and commercial electri-cal systems that don’t need a fullywaterproof solution. Priced lowerthan typical fully sealed alterna-tives, the new Omron D2FD ultra-sub miniature dust proof detec-tion switch is sealed to IP6x, andcomplements the fully sealedswitches in Omron’s range such asthe D2QW. By using rubber pack-ing, Omron has created a low costswitch that is very effectively pro-tected against dust and other drycontaminants with a J-size case of6.5 × 12.8 × 6mm. The switch isbased on a single leaf mov-ing spring design, and isavailable in a total of 12 ver-sions, with solder or PCB ter-minals, pin plunger, hingelever or simulated rollerlever actuators, rated at 2Aor 0.1A. The D2FD is pro-tected against dust to IP6standards but provides noprotection against liquids.For applications exposed to wetor damp environments, Omron

offers a number of fully sealedsolutions including the D2QW,that conforms to IP67 standards inthe same J-size case. FeaturingOmron’s high reliability slide con-tact technology, the D2QW-seriesoffers a silent ON/OFF operationwith an extra-long stroke evenwithout levers. Suitable for use attemperatures between -40°C and+85°C, the drip-proof structuremake this the ideal switch to use inharsh environmental conditions,such as in automotive, industrialand machinery applications aswell as energy, home applianceand building automation applica-tions where exposure to moistureis experienced.

OMRON ELECTRONICS COMPONENTS http://components.omron.eu

Omron adds miniature dust-proof detection switch

Everlight Electronics AnnouncesNew C52 COB LED Series

sufficient lumen output, highCRI, high color uniformity, andproper light distribution tomaintain a comfortable and uni-form lighting environment – allat consumer acceptable prices.With its new C52 COB Series,Everlight Electronics has createdthe other ideal LED to addressmajor challenges posed when

designing a retrofit likeMR, GU or cande-

labra type:m i n i m u m

e f f i c i e n c yr e q u i r e m e n t s ,

thermal manage-ment in limited space,

and complexity ofdesign. Everlight’s COB

series is a 3.7W multi chip,ceramic substrate based LEDthat boasts a low thermal resist-

ance (Rth <1.8°C/W) and supe-rior efficacy of 100lm/W at3000K CCT and high CRI(>80Ra). It will be available notonly in ANSI 3000K CCT but inall Energy Star / ANSI color tem-perature ranges. Mechanically,the C52 COB series can bemounted directly on heat sinkeliminating the SMT process.This provides more direct ther-mal dissipation, ease of assem-bly, and lowering of the systemcost in lighting applications. EVERLIGHT’s C52 Series isusing the standard DC chipsconfigured in series and parallelto provide the most convenientdriving conditions for existingdriver designs.

EVERLIGHT ELECTRONICSwww.everlight.com

Documents

EP&Dee no 7 - September 2012