The Kynix Blog

Fujitsu Semiconductor Limited today announced the launch of the 4 Mbit ReRAM MB85AS4MT, the world's largest density mass-produced ReRAM product. This is the first ReRAM product to be jointly developed with Panasonic Semiconductor Solutions Co., Ltd.The MB85AS4MT is an SPI-interface ReRAM product that operates with a wide range of power supply voltage, from 1.65V to 3.6V. It features an extremely small average current in read operations of 0.2mA at a maximum operating frequency of 5MHz.It is optimal for battery operated wearable devices and medical devices such as hearing aids, which require high density, low power consumption electronic components.Up to this point, Fujitsu Semiconductor has contributed to resolving issues for clients with a need for specifications with greater performance than conventional non-volatile memory, such as EEPROM and serial flash memory, by providing FRAM products, which have such features as high read/write endurance and low power consumption. By adding the new 4 Mbit ReRAM MB85AS4MT to its lineup, Fujitsu Semiconductor can now further expand the options it offers to meet the diversifying needs of its customers.This product features the ability to operate with a wide range of power supply voltage, from 1.65V to 3.6V, can be operated at a maximum of 5MHz through an SPI interface, and uses extremely small average current during read operations (0.2mA operating at 5MHz). It offers the industry's lowest power consumption for read operations in non-volatile memory.The package is a 209mil 8 pin small outline package (SOP), pin-compatible with other non-volatile memory products such as EEPROM. Fujitsu Semiconductor has mounted a 4 Mbit memory density, exceeding the maximum density of serial interface EEPROM, in a miniature 8-pin SOP package size.Fujitsu Semiconductor expects that the MB85AS4MT, featuring high density and low power consumption, will be used in battery-operated wearable devices, medical devices such as hearing aids, and IoT devices such as meters and sensors.Going forward, Fujitsu Semiconductor will continue to provide products and solutions aimed at improving the value and convenience of customers' applications.Reference:GP1S036PKGS-00GXP1-RRB-3R0232-50PKGS-25SXAP1-R 

Overview: The article discusses the working principles, construction, and layers of the perovskite solar cells. It also highlights key challenges such as ion migration, moisture sensitivity, and toxicity affecting stability and efficiency in energy production. When compared with conventional silicon solar cells, perovskite structures are revolutionary in the domain of solar technology. Many benefits, including increased efficiency over the last decade, lower cost, reduced carbon emissions during manufacturing, bandgap tunability, and unlimited energy, have enabled perovskite cells to become more popular in producing greener energy. What is the more common perovskite structure?Perovskite is the general term for any substance with a formula  . Where A is an organic or inorganic cation (MA, FA, Cs), B is a metal (Pb, Sn, Bi), and X is a halide anion (I, Br, Cl). Different perovskite structures can be created by varying the cations and anions, and their efficacy has been investigated. Methyl ammonium lead iodide is the most extensively studied structure for creating the most effective perovskite structure. whereMA (CH3NH3+) is the A cationPb is the heavy metal, B cationI is the halide anion Six iodine anions surround each lead cation to form an octahedral structure, as shown in Fig. 1. Each octahedral unit cell is connected via corners to form a cuboctahedral structure where a larger methyl ammonium cation is present in the center position, as shown in Fig. 2. This solar cell has a comparatively higher absorption coefficient and a direct bandgap of 1.55 eV. Additionally, their increased diffusion length allows the charge carriers to pass through the electrode for a greater distance before recombining, contributing to electricity. Due to these enhanced qualities, thin-film solar cells with comparatively less thickness than traditional bulkier silicon solar cells may now be produced with a power conversion efficiency exceeding 20%.Fig. 1: Illustration of methyl ammonium lead iodide perovskite solar cell. Source: Rakesh Kumar, Ph.D. Fig. 2: Illustration of cuboctahedral structure perovskite solar cell. Source: Rakesh Kumar, Ph.D. Challenges In Methyl Ammonium Lead Iodide Perovskite CellEven though these cells offer many benefits, they also present some challenges. Ion migration: When exposed to environmental factors, the MA ion diffuses or migrates inside the crystal structure; this process is called ion migration. This phenomenon of ion migration has a significant impact on the photostability of the perovskite structure. When these cells are studied in a controlled atmosphere, their efficiency is up to 20%; however, this will drop significantly to 15% when exposed to external forces. Replacing MA with a larger and longer-chain cation enhances structural stability through steric hindrance, which prevents ion movement inside the crystal structure. Alternatives should also satisfy the tolerance factor to attain a stable structure. The most popular substitute is formamidinium, which performs better than methyl ammonium lead iodide with a bandgap of 1.47 eV and a power conversion efficiency of 14.2%. Moisture and oxygen sensitivity: Interaction with moisture and humidity eventually causes degradation due to the distortion of the crystal structure. Toxicity: The Pb-based perovskite cell makes them toxic in nature. Non-lead-based perovskite cells are based on metals such as tin (Sn), germanium (Ge), and bismuth (Bi). They have been researched to produce effective and non-toxic perovskite materials. Among these alternatives, Sn has performed the best, but its stability is inferior to that of lead-based structures. Construction of Perovskite Solar CellProper construction of these cell layers is a critical factor in improving efficiency. A light-absorbing perovskite layer is sandwiched between p- and n-type semiconductor layers in a heterostructure. This lets electrons and holes be extracted selectively, enabling perovskite solar cells to work efficiently. In every structure, the energy level of each layer is seamlessly related to that of the next layer. High-quality perovskite layer manufacturing is essential for perovskite solar cells with high photovoltaic conversion efficiency. Based on the placement of alternating regions of layers, there are two types: NIP and PIN The structure of the NIP and PIN is diagrammatically illustrated in Fig. 3Fig. 3: Illustration of perovskite solar cell layers: a) n-i-p structure; b) p-i-n structure. Source: MDPI Perovskite Solar Cell LayersThe layers in high-quality perovskite solar cells areA light-absorbing perovskite layerAn electron transport layer (ETL)A hole transport layer (HTL)Conductive oxide layer (anode) Indium tin oxide (ITO) / fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO)A Metal contact layer (cathode) HTL and ETL transport layers can be constructed using organic and inorganic materials. Electron Transport LayerTitanium dioxide is the more widely used electron transport layer, but it has drawbacks such as ion migration that causes deterioration and the requirement for high temperatures during annealing. Thus, several additional alternatives, including ZnO, CdS, and SnO2, are selected and researched. Because of its larger bandgap, lower fabrication temperature, and greater mobility, SnO2 showed increased stability and has more potential to be used as the electron transport layer. Hole Transport LayerSpiro-OMe TAD is the organic material that is employed in the HTL layer more frequently and produces higher efficiency. The more prevalent issues with this material are its high cost and active degradation, which impair perovskite cells' stability. On the other hand, inorganic HTLs are affordable, easy to fabricate, and highly stable, which serve as effective alternatives. The inorganic HTL that are used most often are poly triarylamine (PTAA), copper thiocyanate (CuSCN), FDT, copper phthalocyanines (CuPc), carbon (C), copper zinc tin sulfide (CuZnSnS2), copper indium disulfide (CuInS2), nickel oxide (NiO), and much more. Transparent Conductive Oxide LayerThe transparent conductive layer is the most important component of the perovskite structure because it fulfills two essential functions.Transmission of incident photons towards the light absorber layer.Transmission of generated electron-hole pair towards the external circuit. Proper fabrication of these conductive layers and balancing transparency and conductivity are critical factors for the efficient working of the perovskite cell. Working of Perovskite Solar CellThrough the transparent conductive oxide layer, the incident photon enters the perovskite absorber layer. The incident photon creates electron-hole pairs in the absorber layer. The resulting electron-hole pair is transferred to the external circuit via the hole transport layer, and the electron transport layer generates energy. In every structure, the energy level selection and band alignment of the material for each layer are seamlessly related to those of the next layer for improved efficiency. To conclude, the performance of solar cells is mainly dependent on the selection of materials for each layer, and their thickness and energy levels should be optimized to facilitate the proper transmission of charge carriers in energy production. Research is being conducted to develop stable perovskite solar cells that have increased efficiency and are anticipated to hit the market shortly. Summarizing the Key PointsPerovskite solar cells offer a promising alternative to traditional silicon cells, with relatively higher efficiency and lower manufacturing costs.The construction and proper selection of layers in perovskite solar cells are crucial to maximizing energy production efficiency.The selection of materials, their thickness, and energy levels are critical factors in ensuring the proper transmission of charge carriers for optimal energy generation. ReferencePriyanka Roy et al., “Perovskite Solar Cells: A Review of the Recent Advances,” Coatings 12, no. 8 (July 31, 2022): 1089, https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings12081089.Mritunjaya Parashar and Anupama B. Kaul, “Methylammonium Lead Tri-Iodide Perovskite Solar Cells with Varying Equimolar Concentrations of Perovskite Precursors,” Applied Sciences 11, no. 24 (December 9, 2021): 11689, https://doi.org/10.3390/app112411689.

The Hall-effect sensor HAL 18xy family from Micronas, a TDK group company, has been expanded with the introduction of the HAL 1860. This small, robust and cost-effective product also possesses output signal supervision capabilities.  Several programmable output signal clamping levels extend error signalling capabilities to indicate various fault conditions like under/overvoltage, under/overflow of the signal path, or overcurrent. A one-pin programming interface enables simultaneous programming of several devices through the output pins. Other major sensor characteristics like magnetic field range, sensitivity, offset and temperature coefficients are programmable in a non-volatile memory. “The small package and the protection functions of our new HAL 1860 sensor are perfectly suited for space constrained and harsh environments. The type of diagnostic and clamping used to enhance the signal integrity are usually found on higher-end devices. Furthermore, our customers will improve productivity thanks to our programming interface enabling the sensor performances to be optimised at the end of their production line. You clearly get more for less!” said Matthieu Rezé, Product Marketing Manager at Micronas. Thanks to the aforementioned benefits, the HAL 1860 can measure small angle (<90°) or linear displacement (few mm) in stringent applications. For example, it can be used as gear position detection sensor in dual clutch automatic transmission or steering torque sensor for industrial and recreational vehicles. The HAL 1860 is qualified according to AEC-Q100 and is packaged in an industry standard 3-pin TO92-UA, lead (Pb) free, with matte tin lead frame plating. It comes with two lead forming configurations: an online version with 1.27mm pin-to-pin spacing or alternatively a spread version with 2.54mm pin-to-pin spacing, better suited for welding process. Micronas will present the HAL 1860 from 8th to 11th November at the electronica exhibition in Munich (hall A6, booth 219).      

A force sensor helps you measure how much force you apply to something, like a push or a pull. It works by changing the force you use into an electrical signal that sensors can read. You can find force sensors in many devices you use every day, such as smartphones, fitness wearables, and gaming controllers. These sensors detect different types of force, including tension, compression, and torque. As technology advances, the market for force sensors continues to grow.AspectDetailsMarket Size (2024)USD 2.8 billionKey Consumer ElectronicsSmartphones, gaming controllers, fitness wearables, VR/AR devices, smart clothingApplications in Consumer ElectronicsForce-sensitive touchscreens, haptic feedback, real-time physical activity monitoringForce Sensor BasicsWhat Is a Force SensorA force sensor is a device that helps you detect and measure how much force you apply to an object. When you press, pull, or squeeze something, the force sensor converts that action into an electrical signal. This signal tells you exactly how much force you used. You can find force sensors in many places, from your smartphone to machines in factories.Force sensors come in different types. Some use strain gauges, which change their electrical resistance when stretched or compressed. Others use piezoelectric materials that create an electric charge when you apply force. There are also capacitive sensors that sense changes in electrical capacitance, and optical sensors that use light to measure force. Each type works best for certain tasks, so you need to choose the right force sensor for your needs.Note: Scientists have even created force sensors using DNA nanotechnology. These tiny sensors can measure forces inside cells by changing shape and sending out a light signal. This helps researchers study how cells move and react to their environment.Most traditional force sensors include a force transducer, a cable, an amplifier, and a display unit. Modern digital sensors often combine these parts into one device, making force measurement easier and more reliable. When you choose the right force sensor, you get accurate results for many applications, from medical devices to smart home gadgets.What Do Force Sensors MeasureForce sensors measure different types of force, such as tension (pulling), compression (pushing), shear (sliding), and torque (twisting). You use force measurement to find out how much pressure you apply, how hard you grip something, or how much weight an object holds. This information is important in many fields, including material testing, sports, robotics, and safety systems.You can see force measurement in action during testing in labs and factories. For example, load cells are used in universal testing machines, tensile testing machines, and compression testing machines. These sensors help engineers check the strength and durability of materials. In sports, force sensors measure grip strength or jumping force, helping athletes improve their performance.Here are some key points about what force sensors measure:They detect the amount and direction of force.They measure both static (steady) and dynamic (changing) forces.They help with testing in material testing, automotive safety, and medical devices.They support dynamic force measurement, which is important for tracking quick changes in force.Force sensors must be reliable and accurate. Studies show that high-quality force sensors, like the Tindeq Progressor and Kistler force plate, have excellent reliability. Their measurements stay consistent over time, with very little variation. Calibration is important to keep sensors accurate, especially when you use them for testing or material testing.When you choose the right force sensor, you make sure your measurements are correct. This is important for safety, quality control, and research.Force sensors can measure a wide range of forces. Some piezoelectric sensors can handle up to 100,000 pounds, while others, like those in medical devices, measure tiny forces as small as 0.25 pounds. The sensors send out electrical signals, such as voltage or current, that you can read on a display or computer. This makes force measurement easy to use in many different situations.You find sensors in almost every part of modern life. They help with testing in factories, keep you safe in cars, and even track your steps in fitness devices. When you understand what force sensors measure, you can see why they are so important in technology today.How Do Force Sensors WorkWorking PrincipleWhen you ask, "how do force sensors work," you start with the basics of force measurement. A force sensor detects a push, pull, or twist and turns it into an electrical signal. You use these sensors in many types of testing, from checking the strength of materials to making sure machines work safely. The process begins when you apply force to the sensor. This force causes a small change in the sensor’s shape or structure. The sensor then uses this change to create an electrical signal you can measure.You find several main types of force measurement technologies. Strain gauge sensors use thin wires or films that stretch or compress when you apply force. This stretching changes their electrical resistance. Piezoresistive sensors use materials like silicon that change resistance under pressure. Piezoelectric sensors create a small electric charge when you press or bend them. Capacitive sensors measure changes in capacitance between two plates as you apply force. Each type has its own strengths for different testing needs.Tip: You can use force sensors for both static and dynamic force measurement. Static means the force stays the same, while dynamic means the force changes quickly, like in crash testing or sports.Engineers use advanced models to explain how force sensors work. For example, a compact compliant mechanical body (CCMB) connects to a parallel resonant circuit (PRC). When you apply force, the sensor deforms, shifting the resonant frequency. This shift changes the electromagnetic field, which you can detect as a change in the electrical current. Engineers use mathematical models and circuit simulations to predict how the sensor will respond. They also build prototypes and run tests to make sure the sensor works as expected.Laboratory experiments help confirm the accuracy of force measurement. In one study, engineers used a custom calibration system with hydraulic cylinders and high-precision pressure sensors. They measured how sensitive the sensor was, how well it responded to force in different directions, and how much error it had. The results showed that the sensor could measure force along three axes with high sensitivity and low error. Other experiments tested fiber Bragg grating sensors and piezoelectric modules, showing that these sensors can measure very small forces with good accuracy. These tests prove that force sensors work well for material testing, robotics, and medical devices.You also see force sensors in real-world applications. For example, load cells and strap transducers in spinal braces help doctors measure how much force is applied to a patient’s body. Testing with human subjects shows that these sensors give reliable results during daily activities.Electrical Signal ConversionAfter the sensor detects force, it must convert this force into an electrical signal you can use. This step is key for force measurement. When you press on a strain gauge, the resistance changes. The sensor’s electronics turn this change into a voltage or current. You can read this signal on a display or send it to a computer for further testing.Different force measurement technologies use different methods for signal conversion. In a force sensing resistor (FSR), pressing on the sensor makes a conductive film touch more of the printed layer. This lowers the resistance, and the electronics measure the change. Piezoelectric sensors generate a voltage when you apply force, which you can measure directly. Capacitive sensors detect changes in capacitance and convert them into electrical signals.You need accurate signal conversion for reliable testing. Manufacturers test their sensors in the lab to make sure the electrical output matches the force applied. For example, calibration experiments with load cells show that these sensors can achieve high accuracy. The table below shows the accuracy class and temperature range for several load cell models:Load Cell ModelAccuracy Class (% of Full Scale)Compensated Temperature Range (°C)RSB50.5%15 to 60REB51%-10 to 40RSB20.05%-10 to 40RSB10.05%-10 to 40RSB30.1 to 0.5%-10 to 40This table shows that force sensors can provide very precise force measurement, even when the temperature changes. You can trust these sensors for critical testing in factories, labs, and medical devices.You must also consider challenges in force measurement. Sensors need regular calibration to stay accurate. Temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors can affect the readings. High-quality manufacturing and careful calibration help reduce these problems. As technology improves, you will see sensors become smaller, smarter, and more reliable for all types of testing.Note: You use force sensors in many fields, including robotics, automotive systems, and material testing. Accurate force measurement helps you improve safety, quality, and performance in your projects.Types of Force SensorsWhen you explore the types of force sensors, you discover that each one works best for certain tasks. You often see these sensors in testing, manufacturing, and even in your daily life. Let’s look at the main types and what makes each unique.Strain Gauge SensorsA strain gauge force sensor uses a thin wire or film that changes resistance when stretched or compressed. You rely on strain gages for high precision levels, especially when you need to measure small strains in testing. These sensors help you monitor the health of bridges, buildings, and machines. Strain gauge sensors require careful installation and regular maintenance, but they deliver detailed results.Strain gauges measure strain by detecting resistance changes. They work best for structural health monitoring and detailed stress analysis.Here’s a quick comparison:AspectStrain GaugesForce SensorsAccuracyHigh precision for measuring small strainsGenerally accurate for direct force measurement, precision varies by designInstallationComplex; needs adhesive and protectionEasier; simpler integrationMaintenanceNeeds regular checks and recalibrationMinimal maintenanceBest ApplicationsStructural health, detailed strain analysisIndustrial, medical, and robotic testingStatistical data shows that first-generation strain gauge sensors can drift over time, so you must recalibrate them. Fiber-optic sensors offer better long-term stability and resist interference.Piezoelectric SensorsA piezoelectric force sensor creates an electric charge when you apply force. You use these sensors for testing quick changes, like vibrations or impacts. Scientists have developed advanced piezoelectric sensors using special materials that boost power and sensitivity. These sensors can detect tiny movements, such as finger bends or breathing rates, without needing external power. You find them in wearable devices and medical testing, where high precision levels matter.Force Sensing Resistors (FSRs)Force sensing resistors change their resistance when you press on them. You use FSRs in testing where you need to sense pressure or touch, such as in prosthetic devices or hand gesture recognition. FSRs are thin, flexible, and easy to add to your projects. However, you must calibrate them carefully because factors like drift, hysteresis, and deadband can affect accuracy. Flexiforce sensors often provide more accurate results, while Interlink sensors may show more repeatable drift.Key performance metrics for FSRs:Drift: Output changes over time under a steady load.Hysteresis: Difference in readings when loading and unloading.Deadband: Minimum force needed to register a change.Linearity: How well output matches applied force.Load CellA load cell is a type of force sensor designed for direct force measurement in testing. You use load cells in scales, industrial machines, and medical devices. Most load cells use strain gages to achieve high precision levels. You must calibrate load cells by applying known weights and adjusting the output. This process ensures that your measurements stay accurate and meet safety standards.Load CellsYou often hear the term load cells in industrial testing. Load cells come in many shapes and sizes, such as single-point, shear beam, and compression types. You rely on load cells for high precision levels in weighing systems, robotics, and safety equipment. Regular calibration keeps load cells accurate, and you should keep records for quality control. Load cells are robust, easy to install, and require little maintenance, making them a top choice for many testing applications.Note: Load cell and load cells are common terms for force sensors, especially in industrial settings. They help you achieve reliable and repeatable results in testing.Force Sensors in Everyday TechnologyImage Source: pexelsSmartphones and TouchscreensYou use force sensors every day when you tap or press on your smartphone. These sensors help your device detect not just a touch, but also how hard you press. This force measurement lets your phone respond differently to a light tap or a firm press. You can draw lines of different thickness or use pressure-sensitive typing. Miniaturized sensors fit inside slim devices without losing performance. Companies add force feedback capabilities to make your experience more interactive. The Asia-Pacific region leads in smartphone sensor technology, with North America close behind. As more people use 5G and smart devices, demand for advanced sensors grows.Key features in smartphones:Pressure-sensitive touchscreensEnhanced feedback for gaming and drawingSmart detection of gesturesHome AppliancesYou find force sensors in many home appliances. Washing machines use load cells to measure the weight of clothes. This force measurement helps the machine adjust water and detergent levels. Kitchen scales rely on load cells for accurate weight detection. Dishwashers use sensors to check if racks are full. These applications improve efficiency and save resources. You also see feedback in smart ovens and refrigerators, which use sensors to monitor door pressure and shelf loads.Automotive SystemsModern cars use force sensors for safety and comfort. You benefit from load cells in seat belts and airbags, which measure force during a crash. Advanced driver-assistance systems use sensors for real-time detection of road conditions. Electric vehicles use load cells for battery management and torque control. Force feedback capabilities in steering and pedals help you feel the road better. The automotive market for sensors is growing fast, with Asia Pacific leading in production and innovation.Main automotive applications:Airbag deploymentBrake and pedal feedbackElectric vehicle battery monitoringGrippers in robotic assembly linesMedical DevicesYou see force sensors in many medical devices. Hospitals use load cells in patient beds and infusion pumps for precise force measurement. Wearable sensors track your movement and grip strength during rehabilitation. Clinical trials now use sensors to collect accurate health data. These applications of force sensors improve patient safety and therapy results. Feedback from sensors helps doctors adjust treatments in real time. Regulatory standards ensure that sensors meet strict safety and accuracy rules.Gaming and FitnessGaming controllers and fitness trackers use force sensors to enhance your experience. You get force feedback capabilities in controllers, making games feel more real. Fitness wearables use load cells and other sensors to track your steps, jumps, and grip strength. Coaches use data from sensors for performance analysis and injury prevention. Grippers in fitness equipment measure how hard you squeeze or pull. Sensors provide feedback on your progress, helping you train smarter.Tip: Sensors in gaming and fitness devices often combine force measurement with motion detection for better feedback and more engaging applications.IndustryCommon ApplicationsSensor Types UsedConsumer TechSmartphones, gaming, wearablesLoad cells, FSRsHome AppliancesWashers, scales, dishwashersLoad cellsAutomotiveADAS, airbags, EVs, assembly linesLoad cells, capacitiveMedical DevicesBeds, pumps, wearablesLoad cells, piezoelectricFitness/GamingTrackers, controllers, equipmentLoad cells, FSRsYou see sensors everywhere, from your phone to your car. Sensors like load cells help you with testing in many applications. You use load cells for testing in factories, hospitals, and sports. Testing with load cells gives you accurate results. Sensors make your devices smarter and safer. You rely on sensors for testing in medical devices and robotics. Testing with sensors improves quality and safety. Load cells support testing in new wearable devices. By 2040, sensors will help with testing in space and smart systems. You shape the future by using sensors in daily testing.FAQWhat is the main job of force sensors?You use force sensors to measure how much force you apply to an object. These sensors help you get accurate readings for pushing, pulling, or pressing actions in many devices.Where do you find sensors in your daily life?You find sensors in smartphones, cars, home appliances, and medical devices. These sensors help you interact with technology, stay safe, and track your health or fitness.How do sensors make devices smarter?Sensors collect data about force, touch, or movement. You use this information to control devices, improve safety, and get feedback. Sensors help your devices respond to your actions in real time.Can sensors measure very small or very large forces?Yes, you can use sensors to measure both tiny and huge forces. Some sensors in medical devices detect small changes, while others in factories handle heavy loads.Why do sensors need calibration?You calibrate sensors to keep their readings accurate. Over time, sensors can drift or change. Regular calibration helps you trust the data from your sensors in every situation.

A while back,MEMS and Sensors Executive Congress that many designers,researchers and industry reoresentatives argued for putting MEMS devices such as accelerometers and microphones, and a wide variety of other sensors in just about everything was held in San Jose,Calif.. We heard about an electric snowboard with traction control, voice-controlled garbage cans, and accelerometers placed on the nose to listen for speech in noisy environments.But sometimes the simplest example is the most memorable. In this case, that was a MEMS accelerometer—like the one in your step-counter—that thwarts car thieves.  "Passive keyless entry (PKE) systems can be made more secure with an inexpensive accelerometer." Lars Reger, chief technology officer for NXP's automotive division said,"PKE systems unlock a car—and allow it to start with a button push—by recognizing when the “key” is close to the car, either right next to it or inside of it. This is convenient for drivers, who don’t have to remove the key from a pocket or purse. But PKEs are ridiculously easy to hack—at least when a car is sitting in a driveway and the owner is at home." This hack which demoed by Swiss researchers in 2011 and still being used by car thieves around the world today,works because most people toss car keys in a basket or on a counter fairly close to their front door—close enough that a thief with a radio outside can pick up signals from the key. An accomplice with another radio stands near the front door of the car to pick up signals from the key and transmit those signals to the car. The system, concluding that the key is nearby, unlocks the car. Earlier this year, researchers pulled off the hack with US $22 worth of gear in a demo at a security conference reported in Wired. The team suggested that changing the timing of the calls and responses from the car and key could address the problem. At the sametime, PKE key holders were advised to keep their car keys in their refrigerators, whose metal exteriors would block the key's signals. NXP put forward another solution--Enter the accelerometer (and, of course, the company is bringing it to market soon, which is why representatives are willing to talk about it). Business development manager Marc Osajda told me that NXP had initially been working on a mechanical switch to turn the radio in the PKE key on and off. Then, after the company merged with Freescale Semiconductor in 2015, engineers at Freescale made the case for using a MEMS device instead, arguing that its lower power consumption made it a good fit for a gadget with an expected battery life of a year or more.    The 50-cent component works on the assumption that if your PKE key has been sitting in one place for a while, you aren’t going anywhere, so it can turn off its radio and the microcontroller that was listening to the car’s radio; it will turn back on as soon as you pick it up. Osajda said that instead of reducing battery life, putting an accelerometer in the PKE key ends up extending battery life, because the accelerometer uses far less power than the parts it is allowing the key to turn off. It's not a easy work. Osajda said "mostly because car keys take a lot more abuse than wrist wearables". He also He pointed out that people frequently drop their keys (sometimes even out of second story windows onto concrete) or toss them into washing machines (not a surprise for keys designed to stay in your pocket). According to Osajda,NXP's MEMS switch is going into production and they will be incorporated into PKE keys from a variety of manufacturers during 2018. 

While investigating mass transit accidents, National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) officials often rely on digital clues left behind in flash memories of any and all electronic devices—both personal and professional—at a crash site. With the physical forces and high-temperature fires associated with many crashes, memory units are often damaged and sometimes unreadable.Researchers at Binghamton University, State University of New York have figured out how much damage memory units can sustain before becoming unreadable and new repair techniques to retrieve clues off of damaged units, which might help prevent future tragedies."The biggest surprise was how much punishment these devices can take before ceasing to function," said Steve Cain, who is the project manager and a senior research support specialist in the Integrated Electronics Engineering Center (IEEC) at Binghamton University. "As part of their post-crash investigations, the NTSB collects anything and everything at the scene, including personal electronic devices. If the device was active during or just before the crash, it is possible that the data stored in the memory can provide clues as to the cause of the crash. Most of the time the device is ruined, but sometimes it is intact."The interdisciplinary Binghamton group of Cain, Preeth Sivakumar, Jack Lombardi, and Mark Poliks along with James Cash, Joseph Gregor, and Michael Budinski from the NTSB, presented "Fire Damage and Repair Techniques for Flash Memory Modules: Implication for Post-Crash Investigations" at the Fall 2016 International Symposium of Microelectronics.Scientists found plastic coverings started to break down after three hours of exposure to temperatures of 300 degrees Celsius, or about 572 degrees Fahrenheit or more, but memory chips were still readable.Researchers pointed out that even with the pressures and forces in play during past crashes, temperatures typically only reach those levels for short periods of time."Data integrity was maintained even in a plasma discharge," Cain said. "Basically, if the device doesn't burn up, there is a reasonable chance of the data being retained in the chip. The only problem is that the connections to the memory chips may be broken, so that the data cannot be read."For the second part of the study, researchers addressed the readability issue. The team purposely damaged memory units and then extracted memory chips using acid, lasers, plasma, or mechanical polishing.Lasers were the most effective extraction method and mechanical extractions was the simplest, but each method still damaged the wire bonds within memory chips and made many unreadable. A specialized metallic ink from a precision printer was used to restore functionality."These results expand the investigative scope for aviation accidents, where the data rather than the device is of paramount importance," the team concluded. "It is possible to repair the interconnections of flash memory modules, provided the chip is intact." Reference:MT16JTF51264AZ-1G6M1SDUS5EB-001GMD2202-D192