Design Engineers need ESD and TLP characterization data to make informed decisions to design robust circuits and systems. Engineers often review semiconductor data among several manufacturers when designing a circuit or system. While two or more ICs may perform satisfactorily under normal operating conditions, they may not perform the same under extreme conditions, such as […]
FAQ
How to use convolution to implement filters: part 3
A windowed sinc filter outperforms a moving-average filter in the frequency domain. In part 2 of this series, we described a type of convolution filter called the moving-average filter, and we demonstrated that it is effective at removing Gaussian white noise in the time domain but performs poorly in the frequency domain. Q: Do all […]
How to use convolution to implement filters: part 2
A moving-average filter can address white noise in the time domain but performs poorly in the frequency domain. In part 1 of this series, we defined convolution, denoted by the * symbol, and looked at a simple geometrical example of how it operates to produce a new function y(t) from two given functions, f(t) and […]
How to use convolution to implement filters: part 1
Convolution is used in a variety of signal-processing applications, including time-domain-waveform filtering. In a recent series on the inverse fast Fourier transform (FFT), we concluded with a mention of convolution and its application to filtering. Convolution Q: What is convolution? A: Convolution, denoted by * symbol, combines two functions to form a third function in […]
What is second generation beamforming?
Second-generation beamforming refers to advanced designs using more sophisticated signal processing algorithms, larger antenna arrays, and the ability to generate higher quality, more focused beams that dynamically adapt to user movement and changing environments. This article looks at how basic beamforming works and how second-generation beamforming contributes to improved network efficiency. It closes by considering […]
How are NRZ and PAM different in an eye diagram?
Eye diagrams are important tools in telecommunications for analyzing the performance of digital signals, such as noise, distortion, and intersymbol interference. This FAQ compares the non-return-to-zero (NRZ) and pulse modulation (PAM) formats, which are common ways of reading an eye diagram. NRZ represents binary data using two voltage levels, 0 and 1. This results in […]
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD): impacts and solutions
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) disrupts the normal operation of electronic components and systems. It can cause leakages, shorts, gate oxide ruptures, junction and metallization burnouts, and deterioration of resistor-metal interfaces. To protect semiconductor devices from ESD, engineers integrate on-chip protective structures that shield core circuits’ input, output, and power supply pins. This article reviews the three […]
EMI from LED light fixture often exceeds regulatory limits
Conducted emissions from LED light fixtures at frequencies from 1 MHz to 30 MHz can interfere with amateur radio and several broadcast bands. Radiated emissions reach into the lower cellular bands. After recently moving to northern Colorado and setting up my EMC lab and amateur radio station in the basement, I wanted to update the […]
What is bit jitter, and what are its component jitters?
Bit jitter can be a problem. A digital data stream is composed of a series of rapidly changing “ones” and “zeros.” Bit jitter can make it difficult to tell the difference and result in data errors. This article begins by defining jitter, then looks at its component jitters, compares bit jitter with clock jitter, considers […]
Review: PCBite circuit board holder and probe kit
The PCBite kit holds your circuit board in place while you probe it, reducing the risk of short circuits. Recently, I’ve had to test and characterize many small PC boards, including embedded processors, DC-DC converters, and other wireless-related products, for EMC issues. I’ve never really had an easy way to keep these boards from moving […]
