The Kynix Blog

To some, DC DC converters are relatively simple electronic devices that serve a basic purpose. This is not entirely accurate, however, as such converters are far more complex and are playing an increasingly influential role in the defense sector in the modern age. This is thanks largely to the rising threat of cyber-crime and identity theft, which has created considerable challenges for businesses and public-sector bodies alike. In this article, we will look at the growing importance of DC DC converters and the way in which they can be integrated with the Internet of Things (IoT).Catalog I. What Is a DC DC Converter, and How Does It Work With the IoT?II. How Does This Reinforce the Defense Against Cyber Crime and Increase Security?III. Why DC DC Converters Will Become Even More Important In the FutureFAQ I. What is a DC DC Converter & How Does It Work With the IoT? In simple terms, a DC DC converter is an electromechanical device or electronic circuit that converts a source of direct current from one voltage level to another. An advanced type of power converter, it is available in many flexible designs and has found several applications in the digital age. Make no mistake—it is the IoT and the concept of an unceasingly interconnected world that has reinforced the importance of DC DC converters.  After all, the IoT comprises a vast network that bridges the gap between the corporeal and the virtual worlds, while connecting a growing number of devices and apps.  The function of the IoT requires flexible power solutions and stable voltages that are resilient to potential interruptions, from geo-location systems to smart technology innovations and platforms. The rise of the IoT has also driven the development of wireless sensor nodes, which typically have short battery lives and have forced innovators to seek out ultra-low-power, integrated circuits. Modern DC DC converters, such as those sold by businesses like XP Power, are ideally suited to meeting this demand, extending the battery life of IoT nodes and driving more reliable integration between devices.II. How Does This Reinforce the Defense Against Cyber Crime and Increase Security? By optimizing individual connections and guaranteeing a viable power source to IoT nodes, DC DC converters can create a more secure network that protects people's homes, devices, and private data.  If you take smart locking and home security systems, for example, these rely on a sustainable and continuous power resource to devices and integrated sensors. Without this, these systems can prevail and become increasingly vulnerable, and this is an issue that DC DC converters can help to resolve. The increased battery life of IoT nodes can also guarantee the safe and seamless delivery of data between devices, particularly when it is shared between online and offline devices.  The last thing you want is to send sensitive or private data between devices, only to lose power or the underlying connection, as this may create gaps in communication or ultimately leave your information at risk.  This is an important consideration and one that underlines the importance of DC DC converters in the digital age.III. Why DC DC Converters Will Become Even More Important in the Future? For now, the IoT remains a relatively new concept that has yet to reach its full potential. As the network grows to include more devices, and as the connection between the corporeal and virtual worlds becomes increasingly prominent, the need for flexible power and sustainable IoT nodes will become far more pressing.  Fortunately, DC DC converters will continue to evolve to meet these needs and will underpin a technological evolution that will revolutionize the world in which we live.   FAQ 1. What does a DC-DC Converter do?As its name implies, a DC-DC converter converts one DC voltage to another. The operating voltage of different electronic devices such as ICs can vary over a wide range, making it necessary to provide a voltage for each device. 2. What are the types of DC to DC converter?Types and Characteristics of DC/DC Converters:Non- Isolated types: Basic (one coil) type. Capacity coupling (two-coil) type ―― SEPIC, Zeta, etc. Charge pump (switched capacitor/coil less) type.Isolated types: Transformer coupling types―― Forward transformer type. Transformer coupling types―― Fly-back transformer type. 3. Is there a DC transformer?Transformers do not pass direct current (DC), and can be used to take the DC voltage (the constant voltage) out of a signal while keeping the part that changes (the AC voltage). ... In the electrical grid transformers are key to changing the voltages to reduce how much energy is lost in electrical transmission. 4. Which IC is used in DC to DC converter?NCP3064.NCP3064 is a monolithic DC-DC voltage converter IC mainly used for Boost or Buck operation. This IC can be found in low voltage power supplies or any portable voltage converters. 5. What are the advantages of DC-DC converter fed dc drives?DC chopper device has the advantages of high efficiency, flexibility in control, light weight, small size, quick response and regeneration down to very low speed. 6. How do you convert low DC to high DC?A DC-to-DC converter is an electronic circuit or electromechanical device that converts a source of direct current (DC) from one voltage level to another. It is a type of electric power converter. Power levels range from very low (small batteries) to very high (high-voltage power transmission). 7. Why we need dc/dc converter explain with an example?DC-DC converters are high-frequency power conversion circuits that use high-frequency switching and inductors, transformers, and capacitors to smooth out switching noise into regulated DC voltages. Closed feedback loops maintain constant voltage output even when changing input voltages and output currents. 8. Can DC be stepped up or down?Yes, DC can be steped up and steped down. But it cannot be done just by using a transformer, like how it is done with AC. We use a specialised device called a DC to DC converter, that can step up or step down DC. 9. How do you convert 12V DC to 4v DC?Two ways to reduce a 12-volt system to 4 volts are to use voltage dividers or Zener diodes. Voltage dividers are made from resistors placed in series. The input voltage is divided into an output that depends on the value of the resistors used. 10. How do I make a dc/dc converter?Once the initial specs of a DC-DC design are selected (e.g., input voltage range, output voltage, output current), the first step is to select a converter IC. The desired DC-DC topology will narrow this choice. If the input voltage is greater than the output voltage, choose a buck (i.e., step-down) topology. Ref. KY68-DS1200DKY68-R2880KY68-PYB10-Q24-S3-Ua 

LMX3268VBHXThe International Labor Organization (ILO) points out that some 40 million tons of electronic waste (including computers, mobile phones, printers, etc.) are produced every year. The prospect is that this amount will increase even more over time, as electronic devices with new functions and more attractive designs are constantly appearing, stimulating new purchases from the consumer without the old product being out of date. Being present is most electronic devices, Printed Circuit Boards, also known as PCBs, are among the most discarded parts. They are made up of a plastic board and fibrous materials (such as plastic polymers) and a thin film of metallic substance (copper, silver, gold or nickel). These films form “tracks” or “paths” that will be responsible for the electrical conduction done by the electronic components. They can also have other materials in their composition, such as alloys, which have distinct melting points, thus allowing for manipulation and arrangement. There are several alloys available to be used, such as cerrobend, low melting point alloy or fusible alloys. Recycling electronic waste is much needed, because of the chemical components in its composition, with some of them being toxic – they can cause problems if they are disposed of incorrectly. For PCBs specifically, their recycling process involves quite some steps. Mechanical processesIt starts with a pre-treatment system that aims to separate metals, polymer materials and ceramics. After this step, the metals are sent to the metallurgical refining process. The techniques that make up this process are: comminution, classification and separation. Comminution is the technique used to reduce particle size and release metals for future concentrations. In the classification step, the material particles obtained by the previous process must be separated or classified according to their size. After the steps of comminution and classification, the enrichment of the material takes place by means of separation techniques: the parts that are interesting for the refining process of the metal are separated, discarding any impurities. In the case of circuit boards, the difference in electrical conductivity between metals and non-metals is a fundamental condition for the good result of the technique. Non-conductive materials (polymers and ceramics) can be separated from conductors (metals). Some techniques employed for this purpose are explained below. Pyrometallurgy processIt is a metallurgical process that uses high temperatures to produce pure metals, alloys or intermediate compounds. Pyrometallurgy requires high energy consumption to reach the appropriate temperatures for each stage of the process. There are several steps in the process, from the drying of the raw material to the refining of the final product. The chemical transformation step to be used will depend on the material in question. The best known are calcination (decomposition by heat in the presence of oxygen), roasting (calcination applied to sulphides) and pyrolysis (decomposition by the action of heat in an environment with little or no oxygen). Some of the major problems in the use of pyrometallurgical processes are the possibility of emission of toxic compounds such as dioxins and the high energy consumption. Hydrometallurgy processIt consists of the separation of metals. Some of the advantages of this method are the energy savings and the lower pollution of the environment. Electrometallurgy processIt is a process of refining metals through electrolysis. During electrolysis, metals without the impurities undergo electrodeposition, in which metals such as copper, zinc, cadmium, aluminum, precious metals, among others, can be recovered with a high degree of purity; Biometallurgy processThis process uses the action of microorganisms and minerals to recover valuable metals. This process requires a lot of time and metal needs to be exposed to microbial action. Where to recycle?If your computer and its PCBs are not broken but only technologically lagged, look for specialized places that accept donations of these items. You can also resell those components on the Internet, for example. However, and regardless of the final decision, always be sure that the final destination to be given to these materials is a proper one, always avoiding to harm the environment. Ref.IC ChipsPCB2B12ALMZ12001EXT

IntroductionEver wondered how your camera flash charges so quickly or why your computer doesn't lose memory when you briefly unplug it? The humble capacitor is behind these technological marvels, quietly storing and releasing electrical energy exactly when needed.For electronics enthusiasts and professionals alike, understanding how capacitors work is fundamental to mastering circuit design. These seemingly simple components serve as the unsung heroes of modern electronics, functioning as temporary energy reservoirs that can discharge in an instant or hold charge for extended periods.According to recent industry data, the global capacitor market reached 24.6billionin2022,withprojectedgrowthtoexceed24.6 billion in 2022, with projected growth to exceed 24.6billionin2022,withprojectedgrowthtoexceed30 billion by 2027. This explosive growth reflects their critical importance across virtually every electronic device we use daily.In this comprehensive guide, we'll demystify capacitors, explore their various types, explain how to select the right one for your project, and examine how they compare to other energy storage solutions.What Is a Capacitor and How Does It Work?A capacitor is essentially an electronic component designed to store and release electrical energy. Unlike resistors that dissipate energy or inductors that store energy in magnetic fields, capacitors store energy in an electric field between two conductive plates.The Basic Working PrincipleAt its most fundamental level, a capacitor consists of:Two conductive plates (typically metal)A dielectric material (insulator) between the platesTerminals connecting to each plateWhen you apply voltage across a capacitor, something fascinating happens. Electrons accumulate on one plate, creating a negative charge, while the opposite plate develops a positive charge as electrons are drawn away. This separation of charge creates an electric field across the dielectric, storing energy that can later be released back into the circuit."Capacitors are like the springs of the electronic world – they absorb energy when stretched and release it when allowed to contract." – Dr. James Maxwell, Electrical Engineering ProfessorThe ability of a capacitor to store charge is measured in farads (F), though most practical capacitors use smaller units like microfarads (μF) or picofarads (pF).The Mathematical FoundationFor those interested in the science behind capacitors, the basic relationship is defined by the equation:Q = C × VWhere:Q is the charge stored (in coulombs)C is the capacitance (in farads)V is the voltage across the capacitor (in volts)This simple relationship illustrates that larger capacitors can store more charge at the same voltage, which explains why capacitor size often correlates with its storage capacity.This video provides an excellent visual demonstration of the basic principles behind capacitor operation.Types of Capacitors and Their ApplicationsNot all capacitors are created equal. Depending on the application, different types offer various advantages in terms of capacity, voltage rating, leakage, and physical size.Ceramic CapacitorsCeramic capacitors are among the most common and versatile types available. They're constructed with a ceramic dielectric material between two metallic plates.Key characteristics:Small physical sizeLow to moderate capacitance (typically pF to μF range)Non-polarized (can be connected in either direction)Inexpensive and widely availableStable across a wide temperature rangeThese capacitors are extensively used in high-frequency applications, timing circuits, and as bypass or coupling capacitors in electronic devices. According to a Grand View Research report, ceramic capacitors account for over 50% of the global capacitor market.Electrolytic CapacitorsWhen higher capacitance values are needed, electrolytic capacitors are often the go-to choice. These capacitors use an electrolyte solution as one of their plates.Key characteristics:Much higher capacitance values (typically μF to F range)Polarized (must be connected in the correct direction)Larger physical size compared to ceramic capacitorsHigher leakage currentLimited lifetime, especially at higher temperaturesElectrolytic capacitors are commonly used in power supply filtering, audio equipment, and anywhere large capacitance values are required in a relatively compact package.Pro Tip: Always check the polarity markings on electrolytic capacitors before installation. Reverse connection can cause them to fail catastrophically, sometimes even exploding!Film CapacitorsFilm capacitors use a thin plastic film as their dielectric, offering an excellent balance of performance characteristics.Key characteristics:Very low leakage currentExcellent stability and reliabilitySelf-healing properties (can recover from minor internal breakdowns)Good for high voltage applicationsNon-polarizedThese capacitors excel in audio applications, timing circuits, and power factor correction. Their precision and stability make them ideal for applications where accurate values are critical.For specialized applications, you might also encounter:Tantalum capacitors: High reliability, compact sizeSupercapacitors: Extremely high capacitance valuesVariable capacitors: Adjustable capacitance for tuning circuitsVacuum capacitors: High power RF applicationsEach type has found its niche in the vast ecosystem of electronic design, with manufacturers like Kynix offering comprehensive selections for different applications.How to Choose the Right CapacitorSelecting the appropriate capacitor for your application involves considering several key specifications:Critical SpecificationsCapacitance Value: Measured in farads (or subdivisions like μF, nF, pF), this determines how much charge the capacitor can store.Voltage Rating: The maximum voltage the capacitor can safely handle without breakdown.Tolerance: The allowed variation from the specified capacitance value (often ±5%, ±10%, or ±20%).Temperature Coefficient: How the capacitance changes with temperature.Equivalent Series Resistance (ESR): The internal resistance that affects efficiency and heat generation.Important Note: Always choose capacitors with voltage ratings at least 50% higher than the expected circuit voltage. This safety margin helps prevent premature failures and extends component life.Application-Based SelectionApplicationRecommended Capacitor TypeTypical ValuesKey ConsiderationsPower supply filteringElectrolytic100μF - 10,000μFHigh capacitance, voltage ratingSignal couplingCeramic or film0.1μF - 10μFFrequency response, non-polarizedTiming circuitsFilm or ceramic1nF - 1μFStability, precisionRF circuitsCeramic1pF - 1nFLow ESR, high-frequency performanceAudio equipmentFilm0.1μF - 10μFLow distortion, precisionWhen in doubt, consult the capacitor specifications guide provided by manufacturers or reference design documentation.This video demonstrates practical tips for selecting the right capacitor for different circuit applications.Real-World Applications of CapacitorsHow often do you use capacitors without even realizing it? Probably dozens of times daily! These versatile components appear in virtually every electronic device.Power Supply Smoothing and FilteringOne of the most common uses of capacitors is in power supplies. When converting AC to DC power, the resulting output often contains ripples or fluctuations. Capacitors act as reservoirs that charge during voltage peaks and discharge during valleys, resulting in a smoother DC output.This smoothing function is critical for sensitive electronics that require stable power. In fact, the efficiency of modern power supplies heavily depends on the quality and configuration of their filtering capacitors.Timing and Oscillator CircuitsHave you ever wondered how your microwave knows exactly when 30 seconds have elapsed? Capacitor-based timing circuits are likely responsible!When paired with resistors, capacitors create RC circuits that can precisely control timing functions. The predictable charge and discharge rates allow engineers to design circuits that generate specific time delays or oscillations at particular frequencies.These RC timing circuits form the foundation of numerous applications:Clock generators in computersTimers in household appliancesFlash timing in camerasPWM controllers in motor drivesEnergy Storage and Rapid DischargeSome applications require delivering large amounts of energy in an extremely short time – something batteries typically can't accomplish. This is where capacitors shine.For example:Camera flashes charge a capacitor slowly, then discharge it rapidly to create a bright flashDefibrillators store energy in capacitors before delivering a life-saving shockParticle accelerators use massive capacitor banks for pulse power applicationsIn the automotive industry, some vehicles now use supercapacitors alongside batteries to provide the burst power needed for acceleration while recovering energy during braking.My Take: Having worked with capacitors in various designs, I've found their energy storage capabilities particularly fascinating. The ability to deliver enormous power in milliseconds makes them irreplaceable in many applications where batteries simply can't respond quickly enough.Diagram showing how capacitors are used in a camera flash circuit, illustrating the charge/discharge cycleCapacitors vs. Batteries: Understanding the DifferencesAlthough both capacitors and batteries store electrical energy, they function based on fundamentally different principles and excel in different applications.Key DifferencesEnergy Storage Mechanism: Capacitors store energy in an electric field between plates; batteries store energy through chemical reactions.Energy Density: Batteries typically have 10-100 times higher energy density than standard capacitors (though supercapacitors are narrowing this gap).Charge/Discharge Rate: Capacitors can charge and discharge extremely quickly—often in milliseconds—while batteries typically require minutes to hours.Cycle Life: Capacitors can endure millions of charge-discharge cycles; most rechargeable batteries are limited to hundreds or thousands of cycles.Self-Discharge: Capacitors typically lose their charge much faster than batteries when not in use.According to research published in the Journal of Energy Storage, the ideal energy storage system would combine the high energy density of batteries with the rapid charge/discharge capabilities of capacitors.When to Use EachUse capacitors when you need:Rapid charge/discharge cyclesLong cycle life (millions of operations)Pulse power deliveryHigh power densityOperation across wide temperature rangesUse batteries when you need:Long-term energy storageHigh energy densitySlow, steady power deliveryPortable power sourcesStable voltage output over discharge timeIn many modern designs, engineers are creating hybrid systems that leverage the strengths of both technologies. For instance, some electric vehicles use batteries for range and capacitors for regenerative braking and acceleration assistance.This video explores the differences between capacitors and batteries in practical applications.Troubleshooting and Maintaining CapacitorsEven the best capacitors can fail, and knowing how to identify and address issues is crucial for electronics enthusiasts and professionals alike.Common Capacitor FailuresPhysical Bulging: Electrolytic capacitors may bulge at the top when internal pressure builds up due to overheating or aging.Leakage: Both physical electrolyte leakage and electrical leakage (current passing through the dielectric) can occur.Change in Capacitance: Capacitors can drift from their rated values over time or due to environmental factors.ESR Increase: Higher equivalent series resistance reduces effectiveness and increases heat generation.Dielectric Breakdown: When exposed to voltages beyond their rating, the insulating properties of the dielectric can fail.How to Test CapacitorsTesting capacitors doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some approaches:Using a Multimeter:Discharge the capacitor safelySet the multimeter to capacitance mode (if available)Connect the probes to the capacitor terminalsCompare the reading to the rated valueESR Meters: For more advanced testing, an ESR meter can identify capacitors with increased internal resistance before they fail completely.Visual Inspection:Look for bulging tops on electrolytic capacitorsCheck for leaking electrolyte or damaged casingsInspect PCB for discoloration around capacitor mounting pointsCommon Mistakes to Avoid:Never test charged capacitors – they can damage your meter and cause injuryDon't assume a capacitor is good just because it measures the correct capacitance – ESR issues may still existAvoid touching capacitor terminals on high-voltage circuits even when powered off – they may still hold a chargeDon't replace capacitors with units that have lower voltage ratings than specified[Insert image: A photo showing a failed electrolytic capacitor with a bulging top compared to a healthy capacitor]Quick Checklist for Working with CapacitorsWhen designing, troubleshooting, or replacing capacitors, keep these points in mind:✓ Verify the required capacitance value and tolerance✓ Ensure voltage rating exceeds circuit maximum by at least 50%✓ Check polarity for electrolytic capacitors✓ Consider temperature rating for the application environment✓ Account for physical size constraints in your design✓ Select the appropriate dielectric type for frequency response✓ Discharge capacitors before handling or testing✓ Use proper desoldering techniques when replacing capacitors✓ Check for signs of failure in nearby components when a capacitor failsFAQ About CapacitorsWhat is the basic function of a capacitor?A capacitor's primary function is to store electrical energy in an electric field. It can quickly charge and discharge, making it useful for filtering, coupling signals, timing circuits, and providing short bursts of power.How do I know if a capacitor is polarized?Polarized capacitors (like electrolytics) typically have markings indicating the negative terminal, often with a stripe or "-" symbol. They also tend to have a cylindrical shape with one lead longer than the other (the longer lead is usually positive). Non-polarized capacitors (like ceramics) can be connected in either direction.Can capacitors be dangerous?Yes, capacitors can store charge even when disconnected from power sources. Large capacitors used in power supplies, flash units, or high-voltage equipment can hold lethal charges. Always discharge capacitors safely before handling circuits, using a resistor to slowly drain the stored energy.Why do capacitors have different shapes and sizes?The physical characteristics of capacitors vary based on their construction, dielectric material, voltage rating, and capacity. Generally, higher capacitance and voltage ratings require larger physical sizes, though modern manufacturing techniques continue to reduce the size requirements.How long do capacitors last?Capacitor lifespan varies significantly by type. Film capacitors might last 100,000+ hours, while electrolytic capacitors typically last 1,000-10,000 hours at their rated temperature. Factors affecting lifespan include operating temperature, applied voltage, ripple current, and environmental conditions.ConclusionUnderstanding how capacitors work opens the door to mastering countless electronic applications. These seemingly simple components—with their two conductive plates separated by a dielectric—perform critical functions that make modern electronics possible.From smoothing power supplies in your computer to enabling the flash in your smartphone camera, capacitors silently enable the technology we rely on daily. Their ability to store and release energy with precision timing makes them indispensable, while their diverse forms allow engineers to optimize for specific applications.As technology continues to advance, capacitor technology is evolving too. The development of more efficient dielectric materials, higher energy densities, and novel form factors will likely expand their applications even further in fields like renewable energy, electric vehicles, and next-generation computing.Whether you're a hobbyist working on your first circuit or a professional engineer designing complex systems, developing a solid understanding of capacitors provides a foundation for success in electronics. Start by experimenting with different capacitor types in simple circuits, and gradually tackle more complex applications as your confidence grows.Ready to put your knowledge into practice? Visit Kynix to explore a wide range of capacitors for your next electronic project.Last updated: 2025-04-17

A spintronic device measuring just 375 nm across has been used to recognize human speech. The device is a spintronic oscillator, which behaves much like a neuron in the brain. Created by physicists in France, Japan and the US, the system is described as the first neuromorphic computer that is based on a nanoscale device.Neuromorphic computers try to emulate the human brain. As well as having the potential to be faster and more energy efficient than conventional computers, they could also excel at learning how to perform certain tasks – rather than being pre-programmed to do so. A spintronic oscillator comprises a non-magnetic layer of material sandwiched between two ferromagnetic layers – with each ferromagnetic layer being magnetized in a different direction. A voltage is applied to the device, causing a spin-polarized current to flow from one magnetic layer, across the non-magnetic layer, and into the second magnetic layer. This exerts a torque on the second magnetic layer, causing its magnetization to precess at microwave frequencies. This precession is monitored in terms of an oscillating voltage that develops across the device. Nonlinear response A minimum current is required for these oscillations to occur. As the current rises above this threshold, the amplitude of the oscillating voltage increases as the square root of the current. This current threshold and nonlinear response is similar to the behaviour of neurons, which is one reason why spintronic oscillators show promise for making neuromorphic computers.The speech-recognition system was created by Julie Grollier and colleagues at Université Paris-Sud and Université Paris-Saclay, the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology in Tsukuba and the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland.The process begins with a spoken word being captured by a microphone, digitized and then pre-processed to create an electrical current. This current is then fed into a spintronic oscillator, creating an oscillating voltage that is then analysed by a computer running a machine-learning program. State-of-the-art performance The team looked at how the system is able to recognize the numbers 0–9 when spoken by several different people. When the input signals were pre-processed using a "nonlinear cochlear filter" – the standard in such applications – the system achieved a recognition rate of 99.6%. Writing in Nature, the team describes this as a "state-of-the-art" performance that is normally achieved using much more complicated systems. As well as being sub-micron in size, the oscillators can be made using the same fabrication methods as conventional computer chips. This, says the team, could allow one hundred million oscillators to fit on a thumb-sized chip. The researchers also point out that unlike other nanoscale oscillators, spintronic oscillators offer low noise operation, high stability and low energy consumption. Source: Hamish Johnston, the editor of physicsworld.comRef.ECS-2200B-500P122-156.25M

Detecting temperature is an important function of skin. Snakes can use their skin to track warm-blooded prey, even in the dark. Now a highly sensitive, flexible sensor film could also make this characteristic available for robots and prosthetics. Whether in factories, the office or the kitchen: Robots continue to encroach on various aspects of our lives. When it comes to safety, that increases requirements for the “man-machine interface” considerably. Which is why developing sensitive robot skins has become a hot topic in robot research. After all, “collisions” can only be avoided if you can “see” your counterpart—as quickly and accurately as possible. Methods for doing so range from image processing using mechanical devices to contact-free sensor solutions. For example, scientists at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have been working on artificial skin made of small hexagon plates with infrared, temperature and acceleration sensors. The infrared sensors register when things come close to the robot. Researchers at ETH Zurich and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) are pursuing a more natural approach. Their temperature sensor is based on the plant material pectin. Like the snake’s extremely sensitive pit organ that can sense a mammal’s warm body up to a meter away, it can precisely measure temperatures to one hundredth of a degree. That is twice as sensitive as human skin.(A highly sensitive sensor film for robots measures temperatures with an accuracy of one hundredth of a degree. .)(Image: Caltech) “Cyber wood” as a temperature sensorDiscovering the artificial “snake organ” was actually a coincidence. It turns out that the electrical conductivity of cell walls in trees depends on temperature. That is because of the plant material pectin, which can also be used in the kitchen as a gelling agent for puddings and jams. Measurements that were taken on a type of “cyber wood” made of pectin and carbon nanotubes revealed that the higher the temperature, the more free calcium ions were formed at the contact points between two sugar molecules. Electrical conductivity increases proportionally. That is how the sensor idea was born. All that was missing was the “skin”. The answer: A 20-micrometer-thick film made of simple pectin gel laced with a calcium solution. Safe human-robot collaborationInitial testing revealed that the ultrathin transparent film that can be formed into nearly any shape can measure temperatures from 10 to 50 degrees Celsius with a precision of one hundredth of a degree. Supposedly, the “prey” that was used was a teddy bear—fresh from the microwave. To spatially resolve hot or cold sensations like human skin, researchers attached several electrodes along the long and short sides of a piece of “skin” measuring 25 square centimeters. The resulting grid made it possible to determine the position of temperature changes at specific locations. The “snake skin” is extremely easy to make and is more robust and less prone to interference than existing flexible temperature sensors equipped with transistors. After improving the computer algorithms used to analyze the electrode signals and improving the electrical contacts, the “snake skin” should be ready for a field trial in robotics or prosthetics. Ref.KY32-DS18B20KY45-LM61CIM3XKY45-LM35DT

Seoul Semiconductor has developed the industry’s smallest phase-cut DC LED driver series, with a power density 10X higher than conventional LED drivers. The NanoDriver Series is the world’s smallest miniature converter at just 13.5 mm wide, and is available in four versions rated for 16 W and 24 W output power for operating LED lighting with input power of 120 V/230 V (50 – 60 Hz). Manufactured with Seoul Semiconductor’s original Acrich technology, the NanoDriver Series features an IC directly attached to the substrate, dramatically reducing the size of the converter.(NanoDriver Series phase-cut LED drivers measure just 13.5 mm × 13.5 mm × 1.42 mm)In the future, Seoul Semiconductor will also launch the MicroDriver Series high performance drivers for LED lighting fixtures from 900 to 2400 lumens. The MicroDriver Series is designed with a miniature package that reduces the size of the converter by more than 10X to enable the integration of the control circuitry with the external driver, making it possible to mount more light sources on the board, reduce the size of the board. The NanoDriver Series requires few external components, and delivers 16 W/24 W of output power in a package just 13.5 mm × 13.5 mm × 1.42 mm. These drivers are ideal for downlight, flush mount, track and spotlight fixtures. Their small size enables ultra-thin and novel fixture designs in wall sconces, making conventional lamp replacement possible without the need for a large volume recess for the driver, or a reduction in the light output. The resulting decrease in the LED drivers’ physical size has significant business implications for the lighting industry, giving lighting designers the ability to shrink the size of light fixtures by as much as 20, which reduces shipping and storage costs. Because conventional LED drivers are both heavy and bulky, they are typically shipped via sea freight from manufacturers in Asia to European and North American fixture companies, with transit times up to six weeks. The NanoDriver Series are small and lightweight enough to make airfreight practical and economical, reducing transit time and making the overall supply chain more flexible and responsive. The NanoDriver Series is available in four models rated for output power of 16 W and 24 W, for LED assemblies operating at input voltages of 120 V/230 V (50 – 60 Hz). The drivers have typical efficiencies of 85 and power factor correction (PFC) of > 0.9, and are rated for inrush current of <30 mA, with an over-temperature protection feature that limits the LED current at temperatures above 160 °C. Operating temperature range is –40 °C to +70 °C (ambient) and –40 °C to +120 °C (at TC point). The drivers are UL recognized, provide flicker-free, low ripple current operation for phase-cut dimmers, and are compliant to California Title 24, enabling lighting designers to meet the most challenging design requirements, including low flicker, high power factor, Class B EMI and 2 kV surge. Ref.KY59-UR101