Electronics & Test

A1 - Components, Hardware &Interconnect

3M'sTwin Axial Cable
Twin Axial Cable from 3M is a flat, foldable andlongitudinally shielded high-performance twin axial ribbon cable. 3M SL8800Series Cable is for high data-rate applications that can make sharp turns andfold with little or no impact on electrical performance. The first products inthis new family are for serial digital signaling over differential pair forhigh-speed internal cabling applications. Initially available in 4-channel 100ohm 30AWG versions, two layers of SL8800 cable are less than half the thicknessof an equivalent bundle of conventional twinax cable. Its construction allowsthe cable to fit through narrow openings and free up space in tightly packedsystems or even enable design of new smaller form factors/architectures. Theribbon structure is integral to the cable. The structure also allows folding tooccur without disturbing the pairs or compromising the performance.

3Mcable is thinner, more routable, space-efficient and easier to terminate. Thecable is less than 1 mm thick compared to up to 8 mm for competitive cables. Itcan be easily bent and folded in multiple places without affecting the cable'sperformance or longevity unlike most competitive products. The cable can bebent around corners or threaded between components, allowing it to avoidobstructing air flow or to open up valuable system real estate. 3M cable'sbuilt-in wire-to-board registration eliminates tedious wire handling, enablingconsistent and reliable terminations. This is useful for automation in theassembly process.

AnalogDevices' AD9467
TheAD9467 is a 16-bit, monolithic, IF samplingADC and is optimized for high performance over wide bandwidths and ease of use.The product operates at a 250 MSPS conversion rate and is designed for wirelessreceivers, instrumentation and test equipment that require a high dynamicrange. No external reference or driver components are required for manyapplications. Data outputs are LVDS compatible (ANSI-644 compatible) andinclude the means to reduce the overall current needed for short tracedistances. The AD9467 operates on 35 percent less power at 25 percent highersampling rate than any other 16-bit data converter, providing a new level ofsignal processing performance for applications where high resolution over awide bandwidth is needed. The AD9467 delivers resolution, a fast sample rateand a high SFDR of up to 100 dBFS and SNR performance of 76.4 dBFS. Thedevice's SFDR of 90 dBFS up to 300 MHz analog input and 60-femtosecond rms(root mean square) jitter helps lower the signal chain bill of materials andcomponent count by allowing engineers to increase system performance at higherintermediate frequencies, thereby reducing the number of signal down-conversionstages.

Aptina'sMT9H004 Image Sensor
Aptina'snew high-performance APS-C format 16MP MT9H004 image sensor delivers maximum signal-to-noise ratioacross all scene lighting and ISO speed conditions. Other MT9H004 featuresinclude 16MP still image capture at 10fps, live-view video support and1080p/30fps HD video recording. A 5dB increase in SNR, approximately equivalentto gaining two full f-stops of range for the camera lens aperture, isachievable under low-light conditions without sacrificing performance inhigh-light environments, where it can achieve a 47dB max SNR. Through theaddition of a pixel-level, dual-conversion gain (DCG) switch, Aptina DR-Pixtechnology combines two modes of operation in one pixel design - a lowconversion gain (LCG) mode for large charge handling capacity in bright scenes,and a high conversion gain (HCG) mode with increased sensitivity and low readnoise for low-light scenes. The DCG switch controls the switching on and off ofa capacitor connected to the FD node. When imaging in high-light conditions,the DCG switch is turned on, utilizing the FD node's large capacitance toenable the LCG mode to handle large amounts of signal charge. In low-lightconditions, the DCG signal is turned off, allowing the HCG mode to be used asan extra analog gain inside the pixel. Lower FD capacitance results in muchhigher conversion gain, higher sensitivity and reduced read noise. DR-Pixtechnology offers benefits for automotive imaging systems, surveillance and PCcameras that must often capture video in dimly lit conditions.

CadenceDesign Systems Inc.'s CadenceA(R) PalladiumA(R) XP
Cadence Palladium XP is a powerful verification computingplatform that helps companies design, verify and integrate the hardware andsoftware components of advanced multicore offerings. In addition, the PalladiumXP verification computing platform provides developers a high-fidelityrepresentation of their design so they can quickly and confidently locate andfix bugs, resulting in better-quality IP, subsystems, SoCs and system. Itdelivers a platform that excels in bring-up time, ease of use, scalability andturnaround time. The product supports design configurations up to 2 billiongates, delivering performance up to 4MHz and supporting up to 512 userssimultaneously. The platform also provides unique system-level solutions,including low-power analysis and metric-driven verification. Developed tosupport next-generation designs, the highly scalable Palladium XP verificationcomputing platform lets design and verification teams bring theirhardware/software environment faster and produce better quality embeddedsystems in a shorter time.

HartingInc. of North America'sHan-YellockA(R)
Han-Yellock is a re-invention ofindustrial connector technology and a completely new connector series. The newdesign is effective for harsh environments combining many new features withinone connector, most noticeably a new internal locking system which incorporatesa patented push-button technology which is a departure from existing leverdesigns for latching and un-latching rectangular connectors. This new productallows for simple installation as well as a method for locking the productsimply by turning the push-buttons 90 degrees, thus reducing the chance forunauthorized access without the use of a tool.

Han-Yellockis suitable for all industrial markets with applications requiring a robustconnector technology solution. The new connector is available in multiple sizesincorporating up to 30 20A connections within one IP67-rated connector. Theproduct also accepts standard modules from the widely popular Han-ModularA(R)connector series thus providing great flexibility in contact arrangements andmedia-like fiber and pneumatics to meet applications needs. Pre-wired modulesmay be installed into the connector body from the front or back and withoutmounting screws, therefore greatly simplifying and decreasing installationtime. The ability to combine potentials and contacts has been integrated intothe connector providing functions formerly reserved for terminal blocks. Thissaves space, reduces wiring time and eliminates potential wiring errors. Theproduct incorporates a single gender crimp contact design which eliminates theneed for inventory and processing of male and female contacts.

Inphi'sJEDEC-Compliant Isolation Memory Buffer
Inphi's JEDEC-compliant IsolationMemory Buffer(iMB^TM) 02-GS02 component is a logic device that interfaces with the host memorycontroller through a DDR3 connector interface. It is placed centrally on theLRDIMM board for optimal design of the Command, Address and Control signals.The primary purpose of the iMB component is to reduce the burden of drivinglong traces of Data, Command and Control signals on the Host controllerdrivers. The iMB isolates the electrical loading of DRAM devices on the LRDIMMfrom the host memory controller and from other DIMMs on the same host memorychannel. It is designed to address the critical CPU/memory bottleneck in datacenter servers and high-performance computing systems, allowing them to operateat higher speeds with greater memory capacity and better power efficiency. Thenew memory buffer can facilitate high-memory capacity on next-generation DDR3servers used for virtualization, cloud computing and other high-capacityapplications. Adoption of the iMB allows up to four times the memory capacityto be installed in a server platform, resulting in increases to serverbandwidth, as well.

TheiMB 02-GS02 component offers higher memory performance at maximum systemcapacity compared to current technology. The component is backwards compatiblefrom the electrical and mechanical standpoint and is a standards-based solutionthat is multi-sourced and supported by JEDEC member organizations. In addition,the iMB component helps to lower total cost of ownership, enabling data centersto maximize the usage from the current system before investing in anothersystem.

NationalInstruments' NI PXIe-4844
TheNI PXIe-4844 optical sensorinterrogatoris a dual-slot 3U PXI Express data acquisition module for fiber Bragg grating(FBG) optical sensors. It has four optical channels that are simultaneouslysampled at 10 Hz for FBG sensor measurements including strain, temperature andpressure. FBG optical sensors are an alternative to conventional electricalsensors as they are nonconductive, electrically passive, immune to EMI and canbe daisy chained along a single optical fiber to reduce the size, weight andcomplexity of the measurement system. The NI PXIe-4844 features an optical corethat combines a high-power, low-noise swept wavelength laser with fiberFabry-Perot tunable filter technology from Micron Optics. The module deliverswavelength accuracy, repeatability and stability of 1 pm, which is equivalentto sensor accuracies of approximately 0.8 microstrain and 0.1C for FBG strainand temperature sensors, respectively. Unlike most instruments, the interrogatordoes not require periodic external calibration as every scan made by the NIPXIe-4844 is calibrated to an onboard NIST-traceable wavelength reference.Engineers can program the NI PXIe-4844 with easy-to-use configuration anddriver software to shorten setup and configuration time.

FBGoptical sensors enable applications that were previously difficult or evenimpossible with conventional electrical sensors. Applications includemonitoring bridges, aircraft frames, wind turbine blades and nuclear generators.This helps engineers get more data to help close the loop between design andvalidation/monitoring/test. With the NI PXIe-4844, one can integrate theoptical sensor interrogator with over 1,500 PXI modules, enabling a system tomeet exact application requirements.

NationalSemiconductor's FPD-Link III Ser/Des Chipset
National Semiconductor's Ser/Des chipset consists of theDS90UH925Q serializer and DS90UH926Q deserializer and carries digital video,audio and bidirectional I2C control signals concurrently over a single twistedpair cable using the HDCP-protected interface protocol approved by the DigitalContent Protection (DCP) LLC. The FPD-Link III chipset supports in-car distributionof protected video and audio content from a source such as a Blu-ray player tothe central information display or rear seat entertainment panels to create amovie theater-like experience in the vehicle. Each Ser/Des chipset has a uniqueHDCP key stored in on-chip memory to protect video content against unauthorizeduse. National's Ser/Des encrypt the content data and make requiredauthentication exchanges per the HDCP specification.

TheFPD-Link III Ser/Des' on-chip processing of protected content simplifiesinfotainment system design and eliminates the need for costly secondarycomponents, such as microcontrollers and FPGAs, by handling the computationallyintensive tasks of data authentication and encryption. The consolidation ofvideo data and control over a single differential pair reduces interconnectsize, weight and cost. The chipset's features enable infotainment systemdesigners to develop a modular platform of video source and displaycombinations that support an automobile manufacturer's vehicle portfolio fromluxury to base models.

NationalSemiconductor's ADC12D1800
TheADC12D1800 is a12-bit analog-to-digital converterthat is 3.6 Giga-samples per sec (GSPS). The combination of sample rate anddynamic range enables a new generation of wide bandwidth software-defined radio(SDR) architectures. The ADC12D1800 delivers dynamic performance of -149.5dBm/Hz noise floor, 48.5 dB noise power ratio and -61 dBFS intermodulationdistortion. A single ADC12D1800 combined with a digital down-converter canreplace multiple mixers, filters, amplifiers and local oscillator stages usedin traditional heterodyne double- or triple-conversion radio implementations.In multi-channel cable STB applications, one ADC12D1800 can replace all of theSTB's single-channel, narrowband tuners. In each application, shiftingtraditional architectures to an SDR implementation reduces board area, powerconsumption and cost, while improving system flexibility.

TheADC12D1800 enables new architecture possibilities for system design engineerswhich were previously not feasible. The major difference in architectures isthat ADC12D1800 architectures enable scaling up to very high channel counts,flexible frequency planning and massive reduction in board area and componentcount. Examples include: military radar, cable STB, satellite modems, microwavecommunications and wireless infrastructure.

NationalSemiconductor's PowerWiseA(R) Chipset
Theindustry's PowerWise chipset's innovative circuit architecture enables thedesign of both hand-carried and handheld scanners that deliver longer batterylife and imaging performance comparable to larger console systems. National Semiconductor provides a complete eight-channeltransmit/receive chipset, including receive analog front end (AFE),transmit/receive switch, transmit pulser and configurable transmit beamformer.This high-level of integration allows system designers to build lightweight128-channel portable ultrasound systems with enhanced image quality anddiagnostics in a small footprint. National supports the chipset with evaluationkits, reference schematics and tools that help customers make detailed chipperformance evaluations and accelerate time-to-market.

National'sAFE architecture provides superior imaging quality and B-mode power consumptionthat is 10 percent lower than the closest comparable AFE. It includes high-resolutiondigital variable gain amplifier (DVGA) and a low-power continuous-timesigma-delta (CTSD) analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The DVGA offers severaladvantages over traditional analog VGAs such as better channel-to-channelmatching and higher spectral performance. The CTSD ADC provides inherentbrickwall anti-aliasing filtering compared to higher power consuming, low-orderanti-aliasing filters found in other AFEs with conventional pipeline ADCs.

NKKSwitches' Extended Life OLED SmartSwitch
NKKSwitches' Extended Life OLED SmartSwitch is a programmable push-button switchwith a built-in high-resolution OLED display capable of running full colorvideo or image sequences. It is an emissive device operated by commands anddata supplied via the SPI communications protocol. The display life has nowbeen doubled compared to earlier versions and power consumption has beenreduced by 30 percent. The Extended Life OLED SmartSwitch is suited for a widevariety of applications requiring a graphical user interface or real-timesequencing. The Extended Life OLED SmartSwitch simplifies and improves complexmulti-decision operations in string-dependent switching systems.

Witha doubled display life, the Extended Life OLED SmartSwitch opens the door formany new applications where equipment life of three years or longer isrequired. These attributes, along with the reduced power consumption of theExtended Life OLED SmartSwitch, are useful as green initiatives become agreater priority. With the reduced power consumption, the new device is alsosuited for miniature operator interfaces or battery-powered mobile equipment.The Extended Life OLED SmartSwitch supports live video feeds. In addition tothe full video, high resolution and contrast, operators can use the built-inpush-button to select video sources or initiate action based on real-time videodata.

NorthwireInc.'s EcoPower Products
EcoPowerTM products are UL 62-rated and CSA-recognized 105CHalogen-Free Flame Retardant Power Cables, Power Cords and Retractile Cables.EcoPower features an environmentally aligned jacket material - an alternativeto PVC jacketing. RoHS- (Directive 2002/95/EC) and REACH-Compliant, EcoPower'sjacket material is phthalate-, bromine- and PVC-free for improvedretractability over PVC designs. The material contains no heavy metal pigments,allowing EcoPower to help manufacturers and OEMs meet Waste Electrical andElectronic Equipment (WEEE) (Directive 200296/EC) requirements. Most EcoPowerconfigurations pass FT1, FT2, VW-1 and 1061 UL/CSA flame tests and do not emittoxic or corrosive gases during combustion. EcoPower products are mold and overmold compatible and pass 850 UL 1510 abrasion test cycles. 300 and 600VEcoPower HFFR products surpass 850 abrasion cycles per UL 1510. Unshieldedconfigurations have a bend radius of 10 times the cable diameter and shieldedversions have a bend radius of 15 times the cable diameter.

Availablein five days or fewer with no minimum order quantity or length requirements,custom EcoPower products are useful for medical devices, computer and consumerelectronics, aerospace, marine/shipboard, transit and other applications whereprotecting people and equipment from toxic and corrosive gas is critical.

PhoenixContact USA's Push-in Terminals
Push-in Terminals (PIT) are modular terminal blocks withpush-in connection technology that are part of Phoenix Contact's CliplineComplete terminal block system. PIT provides quick installation and aneffective direct termination solution for solid or ferruled wires. They areuseful for installations with limited space or hard-to-access wiring areas. PITis currently available in the 2.5-mm 2 cross-section range. When terminatingsolid or ferruled wires, PIT's leg-spring design reduces insertion forces by upto 50 percent compared with other push-in terminal blocks. This results infaster terminations, reduced operator fatigue and fewer wiring errors.

This system can also be used withstranded wire using an orange actuation button. This button requires a 3 mmoperating stroke, which is up to 35 percent faster than other spring terminals.The button can be actuated with any implement, resulting in fast,easy-to-access wiring and touch-proof safety. With 250N of pullout force (fivetimes the IEC requirement), PIT is useful for high-vibration applications.

Phoenix Contact's PIT featuresincludes: orange actuation button, requires no special tools, clear visualidentification, allows for shorter operating stroke, resulting in fasterterminations, touch-proof termination when terminating stripped, stranded wireand accepts a wide range of wire sizes.

Tag-Connect'sTC2050-IDC Plug-of-Nails Cable
TheTC2050-IDC Plug-of-Nails Cable is a cable that snaps directly into a tinyfootprint of pads and holes in a PCB, eliminating the need for a programming/debugor JTAG header on each and every PCB. It utilizes a combination ofstainless-steel locating pins, plastic feet that snap into the board to retainit in place. Crown-tipped spring-pins make a secure and reliable connectionwith the pads on the PCB. Also footprint compatible, the TC2050-IDC-NL"legless" version is hand-held during a fast (production) programmingoperation. Tag-Connect eliminates the need for a connector onevery PCB, reduces board space and can be used to provide test-signal access(e.g. for SPI/IIC signal monitoring). The footprint uses about the same spaceas a couple of SMT resistors (0.03 square inches for the -NL part) so it can belocated close to the MCU, or underneath the board (since it has no volume).

TexasInstruments' ADS1298
TexasInstruments' ADS1298 is the first in a family of fullyintegrated analog front ends (AFEs) for portable and high-end electrocardiogram(ECG) and electroencephalogram (EEG) equipment, as well as patient monitoringand consumer medical applications. The eight-channel, 24-bit ADS1298 reducescomponent count and power consumption by up to 95 percent as compared todiscrete implementations, with a power efficiency of 1 mW/channel, whileallowing customers to achieve the highest levels of diagnostic accuracy. Withthe ADS1298, manufacturers can develop equipment that is portable, compact andaffordable due to its high integration and low power consumption. The ADS1298simplifies design and saves board space, using up to 95 percent fewercomponents, by integrating all common features required for ECG and EEG frontends. The ADS1298 makes it easier for doctors to monitor vital parameters overthe long term for more accurate clinical data, while increasing patient comfortwith devices that can easily be carried, concealed or worn.

VishayIntertechnology's Tantamount Hi-Rel COTS T97 and 597D Series of Solid TantalumChip Capacitors
Vishay'sTantamount Hi-Rel COTS T97 and commercial, industrial-grade 597D series of solidtantalum chip capacitorsfeature a capacitance range of 10 to 1,500 I.25F and a voltage range from 4 to 75Vin nine case sizes, including the "V" case with a low 2 mm profile. The 597Dcapacitors are optimized for industrial automation and control systems and theT97 devices are designed for safety-critical applications, such as those foundin the military and aerospace industries, including dc-to-dc converters andpower distribution in weapons and radar systems, avionics and space-basedelectronics.

Thecompany has now built the Hi-Rel COTS T97 and commercial, industrial-grade 597Dseries, the industry's first 75-V solid tantalum chip capacitors. The devicesprovide reliability in circuits with applied voltages between 25 and 40V, aperformance level that has previously been available only with through-holetechnology. The conformal-coated capacitors have a low ESR, down to 0.015I(C) at 25C.The T97 series offers designers a wide array of ratings not found in availableMIL specifications, combining the flexibility and convenience of a commercialproduct with the reliability needed in demanding applications. The T97 seriesoffers high-reliability screening options including Weibull grading and surgecurrent testing options in accordance with MIL-PRF-55365. This differentiates thesedevices from commercial-grade capacitors by featuring the required reliabilityand surge screening options necessary to ensure performance in Hi-Relapplications while still maintaining a maximum capacitance-voltage product.

WAGOCorp.'s 713 Series MCS MINI HD
The713 Series MCS MINI HD is a low-voltage - 150V/10 A (UL) and160V/10 A (IEC) - wire-to-board connector system for control circuits, e.g.,I/O interfaces and sensor cables. The high-density, 16 mm dual-row designcarries rear-side Cage Clamp terminals for wiring of field devices, or factorywiring of cable harnesses. The 713 Series' header features a 3.5 mm pitch andseparated pin slots. Three distinct variants are available: standard header,lever-equipped and connector-to-header screw interlock. Each variant isavailable in configurations from 6- to 36-poles.

WAGO's713 Series MCS MINI HD connector reduces front-panel space consumption by up to40 percent. Key to the compact, dual-row design is Cage Clamp Spring PressureConnection Technology - inherently more compact connection than other designs.Cage Clamp maximizes reliability with vibration- and thermal cycling-resistantconnections. Terminations are hands-free for conductors 28-16 AWG, minimizinginstaller strain.

713Series industry-exclusive features are guided by usability, thus enhancingsafety. A WAGO-exclusive, twin-use lever (select variants) serves as a lock andan ejection aid. Additionally, the optional, dual-mode centered strain-reliefplate anchors conductors and eases disconnection by functioning as a "handle" -useful for frequently connected/disconnected applications. The 713 Seriesoffers standard catalog suffixes for direct pole marking, guiding propertermination. Supporting these features are touch-proof male headers whileunplugged (IP20). Mating halves are 100 percent protected against mis-mating.Additional differential coding is available. Separated pin slots reinforce maleconnectors while preventing pin damage and misalignment.

A2 - Digital Control/EmbeddedComputing

MicrochipTechnology Inc.'s 8-bit PIC1XF182X Microcontrollers
The8-bitPIC1XF182X microcontrollers(MCUs) feature Microchip's nanoWatt XLP eXtreme Low Power technology - lessthan 50 AmuA/MHz, in addition to sleep currents of 20 nA. The highly integratedMCUs feature mTouch capacitive touch-sensing, multiple communicationsperipherals and other features, enabling designers to combine many functionsinto a single MCU. The PIC12F1823 MCU is available in a 1.6 x 2.4 mm Chip-ScalePackage. The MCUs increase the energy efficiency of applications in theappliance, consumer and automotive markets. The result is a smaller PCBfootprint and energy efficiency. Examples include new products such asimplantable/digestible medical devices.

MontaVistaSoftware's Rapid Deployment Program for Android
TheMontaVista Rapid Deployment Program forAndroiddelivers commercial-quality Android reference platforms for Texas Instruments (TI)and MIPS processors, an Automated Test and Validation Suite (ATVS) andcommercialization services for Android. Targeted at designers of Android-poweredconsumer devices ranging from Smartphones, set-top boxes, Digital TVs (DTV),IPTVs, Internet-connected TVs, eReaders and eBooks, In-Vehicle Infotainment(IVI) systems and other connected devices, the RDP helps deliver commercial-qualityAndroid-powered products to market faster, with less development risk, andhigher quality. The use of Android as a complete software solution has expandedrapidly from Smartphones and mobile Internet devices (MIDs) into all types ofdevices. This broader adoption has created the need for tools and solutions tosimplify and speed the development of Android-based devices. The new MontaVistaprogram helps customers developing Android-based products reduce their time tomarket, while improving overall product quality and lowering development costs.For customers using Android in new areas it provides additional benefits notfound in the standard Android framework, like pre-integrated IPTV, DTV andvideo-on-demand (VOD) engines for digital media applications.

Referenceplatforms provide a commercial quality software stack to begin developmentefforts, rather than using the generic open source Android distribution. Referenceplatforms include a port to the selected hardware, Support for all on-chip SoCdevices including video and graphics acceleration and detailed test reports.The Android Compatibility Test Suite (CTS) provided by Google only tests theAndroid application framework. The new Automated Test & Validation Suiteextends CTS by offering extensible test cases for the Android HardwareAbstraction Layer and Linux layers to provide a complete test and QA solution. Morethan 3,000 manual and automated tests cases are provided.

A3 - Power Management

CUIInc.'s Novum Modules
Novum Modules are non-isolated digital dc-dcpoint-of-load modules offered in 12 and 25A configurations. Output voltages areprogrammable between 0.6 and 2.5V. They support a wide array of digital powercontrol functions including current monitoring, temp sensing, margining andvoltage sequencing. The modules are capable of auto compensating loadvariations to constantly regulate outputs. Both devices operate off a standardSMBus interface and support industry-standard PMBus commands.

Auto-compensationadapts to system level changes on a cycle-by-cycle basis and frees the engineerfrom designing a control loop circuit. The module is a full digital solutionand gives the engineer the ability to monitor, program and configure the devicevirtually instantaneously. System engineers can now make in-system adjustmentsbased on real-time reported data. This allows for improvements in total systemefficiencies. The Novum POLs were developed for widespread use. The designerneeds to layout their board to support the power and signal pin configurationof the module. Subsequent changes are handled via an intuitive software GUI.This shortens the design cycle and allows end products to get to market more.The Novum modules also require less output capacitance than competitiveofferings to achieve comparable transient response performance. This translatesto board space savings in a technology environment where board real estate isat a premium.

Kollmorgen'sPower Generation System
Kollmorgen'sPower Generation System is a complete, robust power platformthat can be optimized to meet most heavy-duty vehicle's energy requirements,with the flexibility to fit in applications where space is at a premium.Consisting of a Kollmorgen permanent magnet ac generator, generator controller,software and cables, the system has the flexibility to support any heavy-dutyhybrid vehicle power need at low or high voltage, ac, dc or both. Its modulardesign readily accommodates vehicle upgrades and retrofits without any need toreplace the generator, wiring or drive electronics.

ThePower Generation System enables Kollmorgen to serve as a one-stop shop forheavy-duty hybrid vehicle OEM's who have a wide variety of power needs within asingle vehicle, and/or across vehicle platforms. At 28V, the Kollmorgen systemcan supply 30 kW of power; most 28V dc systems are capable of supplying about15 kW of power, without having to move to a high-voltage system. Conventionalhybrid motors and alternators aren't engineered to satisfy the strenuous powerdemands of heavy vehicles. These vehicles require a high kW system that's smalland adaptable enough to fit the vehicle without requiring a lengthy and costly redesign,and that supply the ac and dc voltages the vehicle requires.

NationalSemiconductor's LM3464
TheLM3464 is an LED driver with dynamic headroomcontrol and multiple outputs for high-power applications that drives up to fourstrings of LEDs. The LM3464 maximizes system efficiency and reduces systemcomplexity and cost in LED-intensive applications such as industrial, streetand automotive lighting. The LM3464 includes four individual current regulatorchannels and works in conjunction with external N-channel MOSFETs and senseresistors to accurately drive current to each LED string. The LM3464 features awide input voltage range up to 80V to drive multiple LEDs per string, making ituseful for LED-intensive applications. The dynamic headroom control featuremonitors the forward voltages of the LED strings and dynamically adjusts theLED supply voltage through the power supply feedback to the lowest levelrequired. By directly controlling the output of the offline regulator, theLM3464 can eliminate the second stage switching regulator commonly required foroffline LED power supplies. An additional thermal foldback feature protects theLEDs from unsafe temperatures that can significantly degrade the light outputor lifetime of the LEDs. During an over-temperature condition, the thermalfoldback reduces the current through the LEDs until the LED junctiontemperature of the LEDs returns back to a safe operating temperature. Thisuser-programmable feature allows for a more robust and reliable thermal design,helping to ensure the lifetime and light output of the LEDs over time andthrough temperature variances due to environmental conditions of the fixture.

NationalSemiconductor's Simple Switcher LMZ-Series
TheSimple Switcher LMZ-series of powermodulesprovide a solution to save design time and help system designers get theirproducts to market faster. The power modules provide the efficiency of asynchronous switching regulator with the simplicity of a linear regulator,eliminating the external inductor and complex layout placement challengestypical of switching regulator designs. National's power modules simplify powersupply design for field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), microprocessors,digital signal processors (DSPs) and other point-of-load (POL) conversions formedical, broadcast video, communications, industrial and military applications.The modules provide -40 to 125C operation, along with low output voltage rippleand a wide voltage and current range that enable a complete customer-specificpower supply solution. The LMZ power modules supports the common 3.3, 5, 12 and24V input voltage rails and offers load currents up to 4A. Power supply designerscan design with Simple Switcher power modules using National's Webench PowerDesigner, as well as the Webench Power Architect design tool. Webench PowerArchitect enables engineers to rapidly create multi-output dc-dc power suppliesfor an entire system.

Thepower modules include patent-pending packaging technology that provides lowradiated electromagnetic interference (EMI) to meet the requirements of theEN55022 (CISPR22) Class B radiated emission standard. The modules' heatdissipation and large exposed-bottom pad allows for operation in high-ambienttemperatures without the need for airflow. They typically operate as much as 10degrees cooler than comparable modules. Additionally, the power modules' singleexposed-bottom pad allows for easy and quick prototyping on lab benches,eliminating the possibility of non-visual solder bridging. The size and leadpitch of these modules enable the use of the same pick-and-place manufacturingemployed with standard TO-263 packages. Each module is pin-to-pin compatiblewith other family members, allowing designers to create one layout tofacilitate last-minute drop-in replacements if load current requirementschange.

TexasInstruments' TPS84620
TexasInstruments' new 14.5-V, 6-A TPS84620 achieves a power density of greaterthan 800W per cubic inch with up to 95 percent efficiency and 30 percent betterthermal dissipation than competitors with 13C/W ja in a package size about 40percent smaller than other 12V, 6A devices. The integrated step-down solutioncombines the inductor and passives onto one device and requires only threeexternal components. This efficient design results in a complete solution lessthan 200 mm2 and supports a variety of high-power telecom infrastructure andindustrial systems by offering an output of 1.2V. The TPS84620 offers simple,yet reliable POL solutions by offering a design that removes the magneticsselection process, eliminates compensation components and reduces the count ofsmall external components. The TPS84620 provides a solution for theinexperienced power designers, while allowing them to construct a very smalland dense form factor directly on the circuit board.

VishayIntertechnology's ThunderFET SiR880DP 80-V n-Channel Power MOSFET
Optimizedfor primary side switching in isolated do-to-dc converters for telecompoint-of-load applications, the ThunderFET SiR880DP 80-V n-channelpower MOSFEToffers ultra-low on-resistances of 8.5 mI(C) at 4.5V, 6.7 mI(C) at 7.5V and 5.9 mI(C) at10V. Typical on-resistance times gate charge, a key figure of merit (FOM,expressed in nC-mI(C)) for MOSFETs in dc-to-dc converter applications, is 161 at4.5 V. The device is offered in the thermally enhanced PowerPAK SO-8 package. Builton a new low-on-resistance technology optimized for higher-voltage devices, theSiR880DP has an on-resistance rating at a 4.5-V gate drive. The device's 4.5-Vrating is conducive to higher-frequency designs, enabling significantly lowergate drive losses in POL applications while allowing lower-voltage/lower-cost5-V PWM ICs to be utilized.

A4 - Test &Measurement

AgilentTechnologies' M9202A
TheAgilent M9202A is a fast and wide analog bandwidth12-bit PXI Express IF digitizer running at 2 GS/s, with up to 1 GHzinstantaneous analog bandwidth and a large 512 Mbytes DDR3 memory. The M9202Afeatures a Xilinx Virtex-6 FPGA which implements different functionalitiesdepending on the firmware option you choose. The M9202A implements a real-timedigital down conversion IP firmware algorithm called DDC, enabling both basicdigitizer data acquisition functionality and real-time data decimation forimproved analog performance and reduced data upload time. The DDC firmware isactive in the 325 to 675 MHz band, with selectable IF frequency and pass-band.The sampling rate of this IF digitizer, in combination with its wide inputbandwidth and high dynamic range, makes it useful for aerospace/defense andwireless communication industries, especially in applications such as militarymobile repair stations, radar tests, wideband communication standard tests andfast signal capture applications.

AgilentTechnologies' Infiniium 90000 X-Series
TheInfiniium 90000 X-Series has bandwidths from 16-32 GHz and canachieve >30 GHz real-time oscilloscope bandwidth. The 90000 X-Seriesachieves a 32 GHz oscilloscope bandwidth and uses indium phosphide technologyto achieve a low noise floor (nearly half the noise of a comparable scope), lowjitter measurement floor (30 percent less than the competition) and flat frequencyresponse. This oscilloscope is designed to enable high-speed digital, RF andoptical designers to make measurements more accurately. Designers now canvalidate their systems with the flexibility of a real-time oscilloscope andaccuracy comparable to a sampling oscilloscope.

AgilentTechnologies' M9018A PXIe Chassis
TheM9018A PXIe Chassis has 18 slots, 16 of which are Hybrid-compatible.It also contains three controller expansion slots for embedded PXIecontrollers. The backplane switch fabric is configurable to provide a 2-link(2x8) or a 4-link (4x4) connection to the system controller. Module slots have ax4 or x8 link depending on location. Two x1 links provide control of PXImodules via PCIe to PCI bridges. Combine the M9018A with the M9021A PCIe CableInterface and M9047A PCIe Desktop Adaptor to achieve the highest systembandwidth. With 16 PXIe Hybrid slots, it allows the system designer to mix andmatch the number and location of PXIe and PXI-1 hybrid compatible modulesessentially at will. It contains an advanced PCIe switch fabric that operatesup to Gen 2 speeds and can be configured for performance with most PXIecontrollers. The switch fabric is also configurable for peer-to-peercommunications and any peripheral slot can communicate with any otherperipheral slot without utilizing the system slot PCIe links.

TheM9018A has an innovative cooling design which allows the chassis to fit into 4Uof rack space in most cases. When combined with the latest 1U rack-mountedcomputer, a powerful system can be built in 5U of rack space. Additionally,optional "air-inlet" modules can be used to supply more cool air from the frontof the chassis. The Hybrid slots enable backward compatibility and the abilityto mix and match PXI, PXIe and PXI Hybrid cards in one single chassis.

AgilentTechnologies' M9392A
TheAgilent M9392A is a PXI Vector Signal Analyzer with frequency from 50 MHz to 26.5 GHzwith 250 MHz of instantaneous bandwidth. When combined with the Agilent 89600AVSA (Vector Signal Analysis) Software, designers will experience a completeMicrowave Vector Signal Analyzer solution enabling analysis of communications,radar and avionics signals in a modular, open-system standard. The entiresystem requires seven slots in a PXI chassis. The modular Vector SignalAnalyzer demonstrates the integration of Agilent measurement science in themodular PXI form factor. The 250 MHz instantaneous bandwidth is forsingle-vendor modular Vector Signal Analyzer. Since radar and satelliteapplications require wide bandwidth analysis, it is key to ensure the signalscan be captured, analyzed and measured in their entirety. Single vendor is animportant element to optimize the calibration process and remove unnecessaryoverhead thus reducing time to first measurement. The combination of the M9392Awith of the Agilent vector signal analysis (VSA) software enables flexiblemodulation analysis and demodulation of a broad range of standard-based andgeneral-purpose digital signals and formats.

AgilentTechnologies' Portfolio of 48 PXI and AXIe Modular Products
TheAgilent Technologies Portfolio of 48 PXI and AXIe modularproductsare an extension of Agilent's measurement expertise into PXI and the new AXIestandard. This portfolio of 48 products includes chassis', digitizers, digitalmulti-meters, vector signal analyzers, digitizing scopes, arbitrary wave formgenerator and bit error rate testers, enabling new capabilities that were notpreviously possible across analog, digital, RF, microwave and lightwavetechnologies.

Thenew PXI and AXIe chassis' enable up to 8GB/s data throughput, by leveraging thePCIe Gen 2 technology on the backplane. Each module driver has been designed totake full advantage of register access and DMA transfers reducing measurementlatency and increasing throughput. The modular platform is integrated withAgilent industry-standard VSA software enabling flexible modulation analysisand demodulation of a broad range of standard-based and general-purpose digitalsignals and formats. Each module includes drivers, soft front panels andprogramming examples for integration into Visual Studio, (VB.NET, C#, C/C++) LabVIEW,LabWindows, and MatLab enabling test engineers to work in their preferred SWenvironment. The innovative concepts used for the chassis' (Hybrid slots andcooling techniques) and the modules provide the market and customers with newchoices and expands the meaning of modular PXI and AXIe instrumentation.

AgilentTechnologies' AXIe
AXIe is an open standard, that leveragesfrom existing standards from ATCA, PXI^TM, LXI^TM and IVIA(R), with high performance perrack inch and added features including timing, triggering and module-to-moduledata movement features that are important to the implementation ofhigh-performance test and measurement systems. The AXIe standard complementsthe LXI and PXI standards. It includes PCIe and LAN interfaces, so that AXIeinstruments can act like virtual PXI or LXI instruments, and can be included inexisting test set ups utilizing the Agilent AXIe accessories such as the PXIesystem interface or PCIe adaptor cards for PCIe1 or PCIe2. Both chassis arebuilt for high-performance instrumentation and complementary to existingstandards (LXI and PXI) due to the connectivity options M9502A 2-slot AXIechassis: This new chassis was designed with transportable applications in mind.It can also be racked occupying 2U of space. M9505A 5-slot AXIe chassis: selectthis chassis when you need more capacity for AXIe modules. This chassis can beused on the bench or in a rack, occupying only 4U of rack space.

Twoslot (2U) and five-slot (4U) models, deliver the advantages of AXIe - robustpower, cooling and timing systems - in an open platform for multivendorsystems.

DataTranslation Inc.'s DT9824/DT8824
TheDT9824 (USB version) and DT8824 (Ethernet version) are ultra-high-resolutionmodules for test and measurement. The accurate front-end design allows users tosimultaneously sample up to four fully isolated 24-bit inputs, for completesignal measurement protection from all environmental or system noise. DataTranslations' advanced technology makes the DT8824/DT9824 a useful choice for chromatography,seismic, weigh scale and medical uses, along with other measurementapplications where accuracy and stability are paramount. In addition to 24-bitresolution, a full feature set includes comprehensive software CD for makingmeasurements quickly and easily.

Built-inproprietary ISO-Channel^TM Technology guarantees accuracy advantage with protectionfrom noise and ground loops and utilizes galvanic isolation methods toguarantee 1,000V isolation between any input channel to any other input channeland A plus or minus 500V to earth ground. ISO-Channel vastly increases reliability byimplementing a separate isolated return path for each 24-bit A/D converter usedby the four input channels, all operating in parallel. The benefit to the useris total isolation of all input/outputs from each other and from digitalground. Product is useful for applications where accuracy and stability arecritical. An Ethernet version (DT8824) useful for local or distributedmonitoring or portable USB version (DT9824) offers users a highly accurate testand measurement solution for the field, factory floor or lab.

LeCroyCorp.'s SPARQ
TheSPARQ is a new class of instrument; theSignal Integrity Network Analyzer. The SPARQ uses TDR/TDT to measure 40 GHzS-parameters and time domain responses on up to 4-ports at a fraction of thecost of a vector network analyzer with single button press operation. With itslow price and automatic internal calibration capability, SPARQ eliminates VNAfrustration and brings high bandwidth multi-port S-parameter measurements to amuch wider audience. With the SPARQ's automatic calibration, S-parameters canbe measured in minutes without any need to connect and disconnect calibrationstandards. This approach eliminates the frustration VNA users have witherror-prone manual calibration procedures and expensive "ECAL" modules. Inaddition to S-parameter results, SPARQ calculates step and impulse responsesand rho and Z profiles normalized to a user's rise time. All measurements canbe made in both single-ended and mixed-mode configurations. Results are"simulation ready," using passivity, reciprocity and causality enforcements andresults include a dc point, something that cannot be done with a VNA. All ofthese features are standard.

TheSPARQ utilizes a high-bandwidth switch matrix to route signals from the TDR pulser/samplerand TDT sampler to the internal calkit and to the DUT. This architecture iscost-effective, and provides single-button-press operation. The reference planeis moved to the DUT via an algorithm that de-embeds the switch matrix and otherexternal components such as cables. The SPARQ uses LeCroy's "CIS" timebase toacquire waveforms about 20x faster than other TDR solutions. The benefit isfaster averaging, without linearity issues. Additionally, a wavelet denoisingalgorithm further eliminates noise, yielding the highest dynamic range of anyTDR/T-based network analyzer (50db). SPARQ is designed specifically for thesignal integrity engineering marketplace, for characterization and compliancetesting of passive devices such as backplanes, interconnects, PC boards andcables.

LeCroyCorp.'s WaveMaster 8 Zi-A Digital Oscilloscopes
WaveMasterA(R)8 Zi-A digital oscilloscopes provide up to 45 GHz of bandwidth and120 GS/s of sample rate combined with 768 Megapoints of analysis memory. 20 GHzbandwidth is available on each of the four channels; useful for testingemerging 40/100 GbE DWDM devices and systems. The WaveMaster 8 Zi-A is a singlehardware platform with nine models from 4 to 45 GHz of bandwidth. This meansengineers can stay current with emerging high-speed technologies by upgradingto additional bandwidth as needs change. The bandwidth of the WaveMaster 8 Zi-Ais useful for leading-edge research and development applications, especiallyhigh-speed next-generation, long-haul optical network development. In additionto the 45 GHz capability, the oscilloscope may also be operated in a 30GHz/2-channel or a 20 GHz/4-channel mode. This gives flexibility to utilizemultiple channels at 30 or 20 GHz for timing validation while retaining theability to utilize fewer channels for higher bandwidth signal fidelitymeasurements. The 20 GHz four channel rating of the 845Zi-A has 25 percent morebandwidth compared to competitive offerings.

TheWaveMaster 8Zi-A models utilize second-generation silicon germanium (SiGe)components with none of the thermal conductivity, reliability, yield, cost andother concerns that captive in-house processes must contend with. LeCroy's 30to 45 GHz 8Zi-A models make use of sixth generation Digital BandwidthInterleave (DBI) to extend bandwidth without the deleterious effects ofbandwidth "boosting". X-Stream II technology enables high throughputof data - even when the oscilloscope is analyzing 768 Mpt waveforms, by usingvariable waveform segment lengths to improve CPU cache memory efficiency.

MentorGraphics' Tessent YieldInsight Software
MentorGraphics' Tessent YieldInsight software analyzes large populations ofscan diagnosis reports to intelligently and quickly identify the most likelyyield loss mechanisms in digital semiconductor devices. The software leveragesdata collected during production tests and implements sophisticated statisticaltesting techniques to automatically identify hidden yield limiters andprioritize yield enhancement efforts.

Specific Capabilities:

The Tessent YieldInsight softwareproduct is specialized for understanding and identifying semiconductor yieldloss from production scan test data. Augmenting traditional methods, thissolution reduces the time to root cause by 75 to 90 percent. TessentYieldInsight customers have been able to accelerate their cycle time to rootcause from months to days, reduce the amount of wasted PFA and uncoverpreviously hidden yield limiters representing the last 1 to 2 percent in high-volumemanufacturing. Tessent YieldInsight provides the right questions to ask toselect the right devices for PFA that represent the systematic yield lossmechanisms. While the software visualizes results consistent with yieldanalysis practices, it also automatically identifies systematic defects andincludes drill-down capability to effectively pick die for PFA. The solutionleverages layout-aware diagnosis that provides a rich and detailed data set foreach failing device. The statistical analysis is designed especially to work onthis dataset. At advanced process nodes, it's increasingly difficult toseparate random and systematic defects, often resulting in wasted PFA andslower yield ramp.

PicoTechnology's PicoScope 6403
ThePicoScope 6403 is a 5 GS/s PC Oscilloscopeconnected by USB and a four-channel 350 MHz real-time oscilloscope and spectrumanalyzer capable of over 1 million captures per sec. It also includes a built-in20MHz (200 MS/s, 12 bits resolution) arbitrary waveform generator. ThePicoScope 6 software includes a waveform editor to reproduce, edit or createcustom signals to be "played" out of the AWG. The 6403 contains a massive 1GSrecord length with which the user can then use PicoScope's zoom tools to drillall the way down to a maximum zoom factor of 100 million times magnification.Other features like Serial Decoding (CAN, RS232/UART, I2C, and SPI), mask limittesting, advanced triggering, math's and various display modes all comestandard.

It has a footprint of 10 x 6.7 x 1.6 inch and can be directly controlled by thePC through the USB port on any computer, saving data and generating reports isquicker and easier than having to fumble with any USB thumb drives or software.The PicoScope 6403 comes standard with 1GS. This 1-gigasample buffer allows youto capture at 5 GS/s down to 20 ms/ div - for a total duration of 200 ms.

Weidmuller'sACT20X
Weidmuller's ACT20X range comprises analog and digitalisolators which accept hazardous area inputs, from intrinsically safe flow,pressure or level devices, or proximity sensors for position or motor speedmeasurements, and create isolated outputs for safe area controls. ACT20Xmodules can also isolate and drive analog and digital actuators in hazardousareas. They also feature a separate alarm output in the event of a cable orinternal fault. These isolating conditioners are specifically designed forindustrial or process-related applications. The input and output parameters ofthe ACT20X are also configurable via a simple PC-based software and cableinterface. The ACT20X range adds intrinsic safety and digital functionality toan engineer's tool box when working within or around hazardous locations. Thisrange complements Weidmuller's extensive line of electronics for hazardouslocations.

A power-rail option simplifies andminimizes cabling and installation costs for the integrator. Half the range(seven models) are 2-channel types - in 22.5 mm width - meaning the userbenefits from very high mounting density. For engineers this saves panel space(up to 50 percent). PC-based configuration software minimizes the productlearning curve for the end-user. The configuration tool format is a standardsupported by a group of international organizations. Universal input modelshelp users minimize the number or product versions needed as well as sparesinventory. They also simplify new product training and installation for sitemaintenance staff. Milliamp outputs automatically detect whether the load isactive or passive. So the user has complete application flexibility withsourcing or sinking controller inputs, and confidence in wiring security. Afull set of Zone and Division approvals make the ACT20X range applicable forhazardous locations world-wide.

A5 - Wireless/Mobile Components

AnalogDevices' ADF7242
TheADF7242 is a RF transceiver targetingshort-range wireless systems in the global 2.4 GHz ISM (industrial, science andmedical) band. The transceiver supports the IEEE802.15.4 standard and may beused to implement solutions based upon protocols such as ZigbeeA(R) IPv6/6LowWPAN,ISA100.11a and Wireless HART, and offers the flexibility to implementproprietary FSK-based protocols with data rates of up to 2 Mbps. The ADF7242offers best-in-class blocking resistance to increase the signal quality andrange, and prolong battery life. The ADF7242 features a robust communicationsprocessor to reduce system complexity and enable engineers to use less powerfuland more power-efficient controllers. The transmit and receive paths of theADF7242 provide blocking resistance that allows the device to operate in thecrowded 2.4 GHz band, where interfering signals are greater than 30x stronger. Thehigh sensitivity and low power consumption more than double the operating rangeof the radio while increasing the battery life. Applications include smartmeters/smart grid; wireless sensor networks, building automation, industrialwireless control, wireless remote controls, consumer electronics andhealthcare.

Aptina's MobileHDR
Aptina MobileHDR technology, a form of intra-frame multi-exposureHDR capture, allows high-performance imaging SoCs, such as Aptina's new1.4-micron, 5MP AS0540, to cost-effectively capture a wider range of naturallyoccurring scenes in mobile and DSCs without clipping highlights and lowlights.In addition to MobileHDR technology, the feature-rich, high-performance AS0540combines Aptina^TM A-Pix and Auto Focus (AF) technologies, hue correction,column-gain summing, re-sampled binning and an integrated VCM driver. Otherbenefits include low-noise in reduced lighting, smooth 720p/30fps video and120fps slow motion playback in VGA/QVGA mode and dual-interface options(parallel, CSI-2 MIPIA(R)), enabling auto-focus modules as small as 8.5 x 8.5 x 6 mm.MobileHDR technology uses dual exposures with a maximum of 8x ratio between thelong and short exposure for a total dynamic response range (DR) extension of18dB. The technology, which includes adaptive global tone mapping, enablestotal DR of approximately 80dB, providing a leap forward in image qualitycompared with alternative imaging solutions for mobile and DSC camera systems.

MPAntenna Ltd.'s Trident-2.4GHz Multi-Polarized Wi-Fi Antenna
TheTrident-2.4GHz Multi-Polarized Wi-Fiantennaallows for quick and easy retrofit of most standard "rubber duck-"style antennas often found in wireless network deployments. The technologybehind the Trident has improved connectivity in difficult non-line of sightapplications typically found in industrial and warehouse applications. Testshave shown that even in areas with satisfactory connectivity, the Tridentincreases signal capture, reducing data loss and packet retries. The net effectis faster throughput and better utilization of bandwidth. Because of itsability to capture any available signal, use of the Trident saves money onwireless network deployments because fewer access points are required. Videostreaming improves with reduced pixilation and increased resolution. TheTrident also extends range and resolution when deployed in robotic videosurveillance systems. The Trident can even extend battery life by reducing theamount of time a radio operates in high power mode searching for a signal.

Itspatented multi-polarized technology enables it to transmit and receive signalsin all polarizations. The 3-D design also incorporates built-in spatialdiversity. This feature virtually eliminates multipath cancellation byemulating the performance of complex multiple radio and antenna systemsoriented in different spatial locations. The Trident creates a broad fullsignal pattern free of voids so common with standard omni directional antennas.

NordicSemiconductor's nRF24LE1 OTP
ThenRF24LE1 OTP (One Time Programmable) System-on-Chip2.4GHz ultra-low-power (ULP) wireless transceiver can run from small capacity batteries(such a 3V, 180 to 220mAh CR2032 coin cell) for many months or even years(dependi