The new network LED Dimmer from Opto 22 uses pulse width modulation technology (PWM) to control brightness from 0-100 percent for 9-30 to control VDC constant voltage LED lighting assemblies such as lamps, bulbs, strips, ropes and bars. It can also be used for other resistive-type loads. (Source: Opto 22)
Al, this is an interesting approach, and as you point out it is flexible and extensible. One thing it does bring to light (pun intended) is that controlling LEDs is much more complex than the systems they replace. On the other hand, with the electronics we have available now, it is not a problem to develop and integrate systems such as this.
As you point out, Al, vehicle applications seem like a natural. I could see this being used in vehicle interiors. Do you happen to know if LED-based interior lights in vehicles use dimmers today?
In a lot of vehicles today, the interior lights dim as you prepare to drive, or when leave the vehicle and close the door. I do wonder if LEDs have been able to do that up tp now. This technology would be important for those applications, I would think.
What works, works. From some current engineering students I know, serial is not a big focus at all. In fact, one of them had zero work with serial communication. Sad state of affairs indeed.
Cabe, Very surprising that serial communications wouldn't be a topic that everyone would be exposed to. But I guess it is simple enough that young engineers can get up-to-speed on their own if they need to
By experimenting with the photovoltaic reaction in solar cells, researchers at MIT have made a breakthrough in energy efficiency that significantly pushes the boundaries of current commercial cells on the market.
In a world that's going green, industrial operations have a problem: Their processes involve materials that are potentially toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive. If improperly managed, this can precipitate dangerous health and environmental consequences.
With LEDs dropping in price virtually every year, automakers have begun employing them, not only on luxury vehicles, but on entry-level models, as well.
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A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
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