30 August 2023 FEATURING: • Telecommunications, Wireless, IoT, RF & Microwave • Optoelectronics, Photonics, Displays & Lighting • Interconnect, Passive & Electromechanical • Real-Time Location Services & Geo-Positioning • Spotlight: Women, Youth & Social Upliftment Elite Semiconductor Memory Technology Outfoxed! Introducing the NEW SIGFOX ESMT RZC1 module
• AOI; X-ray • Component counters • Component storage • Conveyors • Device programming • Dot dispensing and conformal coating • ESD consumables • In-circuit testers • Jet printers • Low pressure injection moulding • PCB washing machines • Pick-and-place machines • Reflow ovens; vapour phase ovens • Rework and soldering stations • Selective wave soldering; wave soldering • Solder wire and solder paste • SPI • Stencil printers +27 11 869 0049 | [email protected] | www.mykaytronics.co.za The ultimate choice for a fast moving generation! MyKay Tronics We efficiently supply and support a total turnkey solution to the South African electronics market Supply Efficiency Support
Dataweek, 30 August 2023 www.dataweek.co.za 1 TELECOMMUNICATIONS, WIRELESS, IoT, RF & MICROWAVE FEATURE 30 August 2023 Vol. 46 No. 7 News................................................................................. 3 Systems, components, design..........................7 General ............................................................................29 Hot chips......................................................................31 Open [re]sources .......................................................32 QuickFind index ....................................................IBC contents on the cover features regulars Optoelectronics, Photonics, Displays & Lighting ................................................................................11 A new Defect Visual Inspection system and an upgraded GUI system on microcontrollers. Telecommunications, Wireless, IoT, RF & Microwave...................................................................13 Information on Sigfox including new available modules, a primer on Wi-Fi 7, and various components used in Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth designs. Interconnect, Passive & Electromechanical ............19 Connectors, electronic components and a comparison between flyover cables versus PCB tracks. Real-time Location Services & GEO-Positioning.................................................................24 A look at the history of geolocation and an assortment of the newest modules available for tracking applications. Spotlight: Women, Youth & Social Upliftment ......26 This month we take a look at the various women who are at the forefront of their chosen engineering field. 30 August 2023 FEATURING: • Telecommunications, Wireless, IoT, RF & Microwave • Optoelectronics, Photonics, Displays & Lighting • Interconnect, Passive & Electromechanical • Real-Time Location Services & Geo-Positioning • Spotlight: Women, Youth & Social Upliftment Elite Semiconductor Memory Technology Outfoxed! Introducing the NEW SIGFOX ESMT RZC1 module iCorp Technologies has introduced a new high quality Sigfox verified RF modem module for the low power wide area network market designed for high performance but with a small form factor and low cost. Read more about it on page 17. For more information contact iCorp Technologies, +27 11 781 2029, [email protected], www.icorptechnologies.co.za
Dataweek, 30 August 2023 www.dataweek.co.za 2 NEWS Disclaimer While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements, inserts and company contact details are printed as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material. Published by: Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd Wild Fig Business Park, Block B, Unit 21, 1494 Cranberry Street, Honeydew Tel: +27 11 543 5800 [email protected] Gauteng Tracy Wolter, Tel: +27 11 543 5800, [email protected] KwaZulu-Natal Jane van der Spuy, Tel: +27 83 234 5412, [email protected] Western Cape Contact Durban or Jhb numbers for details Advertising: Print and Online Sales Manager: Malckey Tehini [email protected] Editor: Peter Howells, B.Tech (Electronic Engineering), [email protected] Subscription services For address changes, subscriptions, renewal status or missing issues call +27 11 543 5800 or [email protected] or WRITE TO: Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd, Box 385, Pinegowrie 2123 Subscribe online: www.technews.co.za All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, adapted, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Technews Publishing (PTY) Ltd. Reg No. 2005/034598/07 ISSN 0256-8934 VOLUME 46 NO 7 30 AUGUST 2023 From the editor’s desk Subscribe online: www.technews.co.za Peter Where are the youth? During the month of July, I attended the excellent KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition in Durban. Walking around the show and chatting to various exhibitors, I was suitably impressed both by the way in which the show was organised, and the wealth of knowledge presented on each of the stands. However, as I moved from stand to stand, I was struck by a realisation that caused a few alarms bells to ring rather loudly in my oldish head: where were the youth, the budding engineers and technicians below the age of 30? The show was predominantly middle-aged and upwards. This is a worrying observation. And yes, I know that the university and technical college programmes are at capacity in the various engineering disciplines. I just do not know why they do not seem to be interested in the largest industrial trade show in KZN. The youth should have been there in their droves, looking at the stalls, speaking with engineers who have oodles of experience, getting advice from engineers with a wealth of knowledge. I believe that it is the universities and colleges themselves that need to be proactive in this regard. It is not difficult to organise a vehicle to transport your top 15 students to the show, walk around with them and guide them. The show could be – and SHOULD be – a technical outing that is used as the perfect teaching and learning tool. But of course, although some blame can be laid at the feet of the tertiary institutions, I believe that many students are choosing engineering – and electronic and power engineering, in particular – as a job and NOT as a career. Students should have to write an aptitude test on application to the engineering faculty to assess their readiness and, dare I say, eagerness for the programme. This would hopefully serve as a marker to help determine the likelihood of success in a chosen engineering field. And do not think that I am promoting a technical assessment here. I think questions such as ‘List three of your interests’, ‘What do you do in your spare time?’, and ‘Why have you chosen to study engineering?’ will be able to tell you more than you need to know about the respective candidates. All forms of engineering should be a lifelong pursuit of excellence, and with that comes continuous learning. The engineering fields are changing so rapidly, as new technology is being developed, that choosing to not keep abreast of what is happening in and around you in your field will cause you to become obsolete very quickly. This magazine is a perfect example of how rapidly technology is changing and developing – every month new devices and technologies are documented that are based on new technology. I do not believe that enough is being done to promote the sciences and engineering fields starting at school level and continuing into tertiary level. Engineering is a rewarding career at the forefront of new technology. As engineering professionals, we need to take responsibility in promoting it as such. I challenge each technical professional to mentor someone who is currently either starting out on the engineering journey or is on the fence about what career to work towards. Who knows, this could even ultimately benefit you in the long run.
Dataweek, 30 August 2023 www.dataweek.co.za 3 NEWS ELECTRONICS NEWS DIGEST EVENTS Continued on page 4 Financial • A new report from the IoT market research firm Berg Insight says that global IoT connectivity revenues increased 24% to reach €10,8 billion in 2022, as the decline in the global ARPU decelerated. The ARPU dropped just 1% to €0,38. On average, IoT connectivity revenues account for about 2% of total revenues for the largest mobile operator groups. By 2027, Berg Insight projects that there will be 5,3 billion IoT devices connected to cellular networks worldwide, generating annual connectivity revenues of €21,4 billion. • In a positive news story for the automotive industry, it is reported that a substantial increase in demand for automotive panels is building. It is predicted that the shipment quantity for automotive panels will cross the 200 million mark in 2023, reaching an estimated 205 million units, a 5,1% YoY growth. The report further highlights that with the increasing usage of automotive panels, the growth of automotive panel driver ICs is stepping into the limelight. In particular, the application of Touch and Display Driver Integration (TDDI) in new designs is gradually rising, leading to a considerable increase in market share. • TrendForce has reported that memory suppliers are boosting their production capacity in response to escalating orders from NVIDIA and CSPs for in-house designed chips. Forecasts indicate a huge increase of 105% in annual production by 2024, with the majority of capacity increase expected in Q2 2024. This increase is being driven by the rapid expansion in AI development, which is triggering substantial demand for AI training chips and thereby boosting HBM usage. • Currently there is a shift in the primary demand in memory for AI applications from HBM2e to HBM3, with the anticipated demand ratio being 50% and 39% respectively. Demand in 2024, however, will shift drastically towards HBM3, with a forecasted share of 60% as an increasing number of HBM3-based chips hit the market. This will trigger a large increase in HBM revenue in 2024. • Vertiv has reported second quarter net sales of $1,734 million, an increase of 24%, or $335 million compared to last year’s second quarter. This amounts to a 25% increase in net sales, which excludes the impact of foreign currency fluctuations. The company is embracing opportunities directly relating to AI. • Coming amid relatively muted demand in the EV sector, the price of EV batteries remained stable, with lithium salt prices registering a marginal decline. The prices of EV ternary cells, LFP cells, and pouch ternary cells in July remained consistent with the prior month. Electronics News Digest • The microLED market is being boosted by mass production of large displays and wearables. It is predicted that the market value of microLED chips will reach $27 million in 2023, resulting in a YoY growth of 92%. Big players in the market, like Samsung and LG Electronics, are taking advantage of the technology. TrendForce predicts that the market value of microLEDs will approach $580 million by 2027, an astounding 136% increase from 2022 to 2027. Wearables are a key application for microLED technology, with their exceptional brightness and low power consumption. AUO has successfully produced the world’s first 1,39-inch watch panel which is provides to various European and Japanese manufacturers. Companies TDK is now using electricity derived from 100% renewable energy in all its Japan manufacturing sites and is set to expand its efforts throughout its subsidiaries globally. This is in line with its goal of reaching 50% global renewable energy usage by 2025 and 100% usage by 2050, coinciding with the company’s 2050 net-zero environmental initiative. • NIST has demonstrated a new primary standard for measuring ultralow pressures. This new approach, called CAVS for cold atom vacuum standard, can be used to perform intrinsically accurate measurements without first needing to calibrate reference pressure readings. Working with ultralow vacuum pressure is critical for semiconductor manufacturers as microchips need to be created in chambers completely devoid of atomic and molecular contaminants. • The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) has partnered with big xyt, a global independent provider of smart data and analytics solutions. The joint venture entails the formation of a new company: big xyt ecosystems. The new company will deliver the innovative Trade Explorer data analytics solution to global stock exchanges and its ecosystems. The service is delivered directly to end users through hosted web services, which supports rapid time to market and lower costs. It provides sophisticated analytics tools that enable users to understand market liquidity, quality and flows, market share, business concentration, execution performance, and tools for analysing trading patterns and for pre-trade decision support. • FNB has won seven awards as South Africa and Africa’s best digital bank at the 2023 World’s Best Consumer Digital banks in Africa, hosted by Global Finance. The accolades recognise FNB’s leadership in areas such as the user experience of its digital interfaces, information security, and fraud prevention. Digital Transformation Strategy Summit 5-7 September 2023 Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa, Cape Town NOVACOM Summits has announced its first-ever African edition of the Digital Transformation Strategy Summit, an exclusive networking and business opportunity for Africa’s telecommunications leaders. The digital transformation journey in Africa has gained immense momentum, and presents a remarkable setting to connect people, representing a US$100 billion opportunity for the continent. The summit intends to foster strategic relationships among executive decision makers from leading African telecommunications companies and solution providers. Register at https://novacomsummits.com SMTA International 2023 9-12 October 2023 Minneapolis, USA The electronics manufacturing conference and exposition will showcase the latest in electronics manufacturing innovations and solutions. Attendees will learn about research and solutions across the manufacturing markets, including advanced design and manufacturing techniques. The conference will run from 9 to 12 October with the exposition running from 10 to 11 October. Register at https://www.smtai.org SEMICON EUROPA 14-17 November 2023 Munich, Germany Co-located with productronika in Munich, SEMICON creates the strongest single event for electronics manufacturing in Europe. Combining top-notch keynotes with the world-class exhibition, the event offers an insight into future market trends and a place to network with manufacturers and suppliers. The event includes the Advanced Smart Packaging forum, Smart Manufacturing and Mobility section, and a workforce development section. Register at https://www.semiconeuropa.org
Dataweek, 30 August 2023 www.dataweek.co.za 4 NEWS ELECTRONICS NEWS DIGEST Continued from page 3 • South Africa has announced that it will prioritise the expansion of its grid over the next decade. Presently, the grid does not have the capacity to hold the amount of energy that is required for the country, even if that amount of energy could be generated. Upgrading the generation capacity without upgrading the transmission system would be a fruitless exercise. • In its Q2 2023 earnings report (address), SiLabs also reported on business highlights for the first half of 2023: • The new dual-band FG28 SoC, designed for long-range networks and protocols like Amazon Sidewalk and Wi-SUN was released. Included radios for sub-GHz and 2,4 GHz Bluetooth LE makes the SoC particularly attractive for edge applications. • Registration for its fourth annual Works With Conference which will feature over 40 in-depth technical sessions, and which attracts over 8000 IoT developers every year, was opened. • The grand opening of the Silicon Labs Connectivity Lab in Boston took place, which sees a simulation set of a modern smart home complete with a range of IoT devices, applications and networks. • RMB Corvest consortium has invested in the South African manufacturing sector by partnering with Umoya Capital Partners and Calibre Capital to obtain a minority share in the business. M4A specialises in the manufacture of passive network infrastructure for use in the formation of fibre networks and bulk civil infrastructure. Items include small boundary boxes to large manholes to suit network distribution; various ducts which are suitable for the telecommunications networks industry, along with precast and prefabricated civil engineering solutions. • ZTE has been included in the FTSE4Good Index Series for the eighth consecutive year. Created by the global index and data provider FTSE Russell, the FTSE4Good Index Series is designed to measure the performance of companies demonstrating strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices. • Indium Corporation has started supplying high-quality, highpurity gallium acetylacetonate globally. Known as Ga(acac), it is an organometallic complex which has several applications in materials science, and is used in the manufacture of ultra-wide bandgap semiconductors for power electronics applications. Technologies • ULTRARAM startup Quinas Technology has been named Best of Show in the Most Innovative Flash Memory Startup category at the Flash Memory Summit in Santa Clara, USA. Invented by Prof. Manus Hayne from the Physics Department at Lancaster University, ULTRARAM combines the high performance of dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) with the non-volatility of flash memory, something that up to now was widely believed to be unachievable. The technology has the ability to both store data for more than 1000 years (exceeding the capabilities of flash) and also to be read from and written to very quickly using lower energy than DRAM. ULTRARAM exploits the quantum-mechanical effect of resonant tunnelling, replacing the oxide tunnel barrier in flash with a triple-barrier resonant tunnelling structure. This eliminates flash’s deficiencies, allowing a floating-gate memory to operate at low voltage and high speed, with high endurance and unprecedented efficiency, but without compromising on non-volatility. • According to research by TrendForce, the market’s dominant product for 2023 is High Bandwidth memory (HBM). HBM2e is employed by the NVIDIA A100/A800, AMD MI200, and most cloud service providers’ self-developed accelerator chips. As the demand for AI accelerator chips increases, manufacturers plan to introduce the new and faster HBM3e products in 2024. It is expected that HBM3 and HBM3e will become mainstream during the new year.
Dataweek, 30 August 2023 www.dataweek.co.za 5 NEWS with Greg Barron, Actum Group director Clearing the Static For more information contact Actum on +27 11 608 3001 or email [email protected]. Actum is a specialised importer and distributor of industrial and electronic products in southern Africa. Staying grounded To achieve effective electrostatic discharge (ESD) control, it is crucial to conduct regular testing and measurements. The use of grounding products and testing equipment becomes essential to verify the proper functionality of static control systems in the work environment. Among the main contributors to static charge generation are people themselves: as they move around and interact with objects, static electricity can accumulate. Therefore, grounding systems play a vital role in maintaining a consistent electrical potential among components, personnel, and other conductors. There are some key elements that form part of an effective grounding system in the workplace. Workstation grounding: • ESD common grounding point: an electrical junction to which all ESD grounds are connected via grounding cords. • Work surface bench mats: dissipative bench mats with a resistivity of 1 x 109 or less. The mat must be grounded. • Grounding mats and dissipative flooring: to avoid static build-up when walking, ESD floor mats, vinyl, epoxy, or paint in the ESD protected area can be utilised. • Grounding testers: ensure that a workstation is tested before, during, and consistently after the installation of your ESD grounding system. • Proper maintenance and inspection: regular checks and maintenance of grounding components to identify and address any issues promptly. Personnel grounding devices: • Wrist straps: a conductive elastic band or metallic expendable strap comprised of a conductive inner surface. • Heel grounders or ESD shoes: frequently used where the technician needs more freedom of movement. Conductive shoes or foot grounders should be worn on both feet. • Clothing: static dissipative clothing to prevent dangerous static fields from interacting with components and causing damage. • Chairs: static is generated when personnel sit or stand. To prevent this, ESD chairs with a resistance to ground of less than 1x1010 Ω is recommended. By incorporating these key elements into an effective grounding system, workplaces can significantly reduce the risk of electrostatic discharge incidents and protect personnel and valuable equipment from potential damage. Silicon Labs reported financial results for the second quarter, which ended on 1 July 2023. Revenue exceeded the mid-point of the guidance range at $245 million, driven by strength across the Industrial & Commercial end markets. The revenue for the Industrial and Commercial markets for Q2 2023 was $165 million. Home and Life revenue totalled $80 million. Gross margin equalled 58,7% and GAAP R&D expenses were reported as $86 million for the quarter. GAAP operating expenses as a percentage of revenue was 7%. “We delivered solid results in the second quarter, with record revenue in SiLabs releases second quarter results As part of ABB’s strategic plans to strengthen local manufacturing, the company has invested over R10 million to complete additional technology transfer that brings the manufacture of UniGear ZS1 medium-voltage switchgear to South Africa. Previously, the product was fully imported from the Czech Republic, or other countries when needed. Due to the investment, 60 to 70% of the technology will be locally manufactured and assembled. As a result, the company’s customers will benefit from a higher design flexibility, faster accessibility, and decreased costs due to reduced import costs and delivery time. “The size of the South African switchgear market is projected to register growth. The increasing number of investments in sustainable power generation, coupled with the growing population, is expected to drive the Investment in switchgear manufacturing in South Africa STMicroelectronics has released its healthy second quarter 2023 financial results. The company reported a Q2 2023 net revenue of $4,33 billion, up 12,7% YoY. Gross profit increased by 16,5% over the same period to $2,11 billion, with a gross margin of 49,0%. The company’s operating income increased 14,2% to total $1,15 billion, compared to $1,00 billion in 2Q 2022. In the second quarter 2023, net operating expenses included negative non-recurring non-cash items amounting to $34 million. ST reports second quarter results our Industrial & Commercial business,” said Matt Johnson, president and CEO at Silicon Labs. “The strength in Industrial & Commercial was offset by a decline in our Home & Life business as weak demand and excess customer inventory continue to impact our results. Despite the challenging near-term outlook, we continue to drive strong design win momentum with our leading platform, products, and broad customer base. As the market stabilises, we are well-positioned to gain share and drive long-term revenue growth.” For more information visit www.silabs.com growth of the market. This illustrates both the importance of the domestic sector to multinationals and the strategic location of South Africa to a rapidly growing African consumer market,” says Yunus Hoosen, head of InvestSA, an agency of the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition. The Distribution Solutions factory within the campus now employs around 120 people, ten of whom have been newly employed due to this investment. ABB plans to increase these numbers by employing more permanent engineers, contractors, and graduates – for example, through its graduate programme, in which over 70 graduates are currently participating. For more information contact ABB South Africa, +27 10 202 5000, [email protected], www.abb.com/za Compared with the year-ago quarter, the following product group results were reported. Revenue increased for both automotive and power discrete with operating profit increasing by 73,8% to $624 million. The Microcontrollers and Digital ICs group also saw a revenue increase by 19% to $505 million. However, revenue in the Analog, MEMS and Sensors group decreased by 48,3%, to a total of $139 million. For more information visit www.st.com
Dataweek, 30 August 2023 www.dataweek.co.za 6 NEWS According to DMASS, European distribution is finally experiencing the long-awaited slowdown of a market that is saturated. While semiconductors grew by 19,3% to €3,91 billion in Q2 2023, IP&E components have already seen a decline of 7,3%. Regionally the differences were quite notable with Germany, Italy, France, Austria and Turkey showing large growth. The UK, Switzerland, Iberia, Nordic and Eastern Europe remained well into the double digits, while Benelux, Israel and the rest of Europe stayed just positive. Product-wise, microcontrollers, programmable logic, and power discretes drove most of the growth in Q2. The biggest drop was seen in memory and standard logic with -13,2% and -7,63% respectively. For more information visit www.dmass.com General slowdown expected for component distribution Avnet Abacus has been recognised by Molex with two prestigious awards in 2022. Avnet Abacus in Germany has been named the ‘Regional Distributor of the Year – Central Europe’, while the company has been honoured as the ’European Distributor of the Year.’ These accolades are a testament to the company’s commitment to growth, collaboration, and demand creation in the industry. Avnet Abacus Germany’s award is a result of its exceptional performance in growing its pipeline and increasing conversion rates. The Avnet Abacus received distribution accolades from Molex Inderjeeth has extensive expertise, with more than 30 years’ experience in the South African electronics market. He comes with a wealth of knowledge and business acumen to assist in iCorp’s growth and reach in its vertical market sectors. Part of his key portfolio is to strengthen and develop both the existing and new customer base. He is also tasked with establishing new IoT technologies through supply chain acquisitions. For more information contact iCorp Technologies, +27 11 781 2029, [email protected], www.icorptechnologies.co.za iCorp appoints new manager award also acknowledges the branch’s strong local commitment and collaboration, which have been instrumental in its success. On a broader scale, the recognition of ‘European Distributor of the Year’ highlights the company’s excellent engagement across both organisations. Avnet Abacus has demonstrated an optimised approach to fostering growth and meeting the needs of its customers. For more information contact Avnet Abacus, [email protected], www.avnet.com/wps/portal/abacus iCorp has announced the appointment of Mukesh Inderjeeth, who joins the company in the role of New Business Development Manager (National). The European Components Distribution (DMASS) expects a general slowdown, although a slight growth is still expected in distribution.
Dataweek, 30 August 2023 www.dataweek.co.za 7 REGULAR SYSTEMS, COMPONENTS, DESIGN 1-Wire networks are designed for communication with a single 1-Wire host and numerous 1-Wire nodes on a single 1-Wire bus. Preferably, a linear topology, which contains insignificant stubs, is best for a 1-Wire network. However, a star topology, which contains long stubs, is often unavoidable, and makes it more difficult to determine the effective limitations. A method to eliminate these difficulties is to break up a star topology into numerous channels by using an analogue multiplexer (mux). Advantages of using numerous channels include accelerating individual 1-Wire node access time, improving network robustness, and mixing overdrive-only nodes with standard/overdrive nodes on different channels. These advantages can be gained, while still having a single 1-Wire host. Arrangement When configuring a 1-Wire network to have many channels, the general approach taken uses an Analog Devices’ 1-Wire host connected to the common signal of an analogue mux. The mux has digital channel select signals to connect the 1-Wire common signal to the desired I/O that contains a channel of 1-Wire node devices. With this arrangement, many more 1-Wire nodes can be networked over the limitations of a single 1-Wire bus. This is due to the elimination of stubs, and a decrease in the number of 1-Wire nodes per channel driven by the 1-Wire host. Examination Figure 1 shows a 3,3 V system when using the DS2485 1-Wire host. The microcontroller controls both the DS2485 and the mux channel to be selected. In a 1-Wire network, it is critical that the mux used can handle rail-to-rail analogue signals. Otherwise, signal distortion can occur and the VPUP parameter requirement of the 1-Wire nodes can be violated. The mux RON parameter must also be as small as possible to avoid altering the How to multiplex a 1-Wire host into multiple channels By Stewart Merkel, Applications Engineer, Analog Devices, www.analog.com. DS2485 active pull-up impedance (RAPU). If this is not taken into account, the 1-Wire nodes might not receive the necessary current to operate during a strong pull-up event. Optionally, the mux (U2) has external, post-mux, pull-up resistors (RP4 and RP5) to provide power for idle 1-Wire nodes when the switches are open. If this is not done, each time a channel switch is connected, the microcontroller must wait the maximum wake-up time of the connected nodes on that channel (usually 2 ms) before beginning communication. However, it is important to consider the effects of the mux’s RON parameter during a pulldown event by the 1-Wire host when using an external pull-up resistor on each channel. Any effects can be considered negligible by selecting a small RON to avoid violating the highest 1-Wire input low parameter of the 1-Wire nodes. So, for a given post-mux pull-up resistor of RP and a given mux resistor of RON, the post-mux output low voltage is expressed using equation 1: Additionally, it is important to consider the flexibility of the 1-Wire host used. Analog Devices recommends the DS2485 1-Wire host for any 3,3 V system because the DS2485 timing, input triggering levels, and internal pull-up resistors are very adjustable. The Part number Channels Supply voltage (min) (V) Supply voltage (max) (V) RON (max) (Ω) Microcontrollerchannel select MAX4634 4-to-1 1,8 5,5 4 2 GPIO MAX4734 4-to-1 1,6 3,6 0,8 2 GPIO MAX4617 8-to-1 2 5,5 10 3 GPIO MAX4638 8-to-1 1,8 5,5 3,5 3 GPIO MAX4781 8-to-1 1,8 3,6 1 3 GPIO MAX14661 16-to-1 1,8 3,6 8 I2C/SPI DS2485 can also be set to a high impedance mode, which can be helpful when using the external resistor option. However, if a system needs 5 V, then the next best option is to use the DS2484. Lastly, during this examination, some systems require a mix of overdrive-only and standard/overdrive 1-Wire node devices. If the overdrive-only and the standard/ overdrive devices reside on the same 1-Wire bus, communication faults occur. One simple solution is to use a mux that places overdrive-only devices on different channels than the overdrive/standard devices. The DS2485 can then simply switch to overdrive mode or standard mode between the selection of channels for proper communication. Analogue Mux Selection There are many requirements a designer considers when selecting the analogue mux. These requirements can be the number of channels, interface type, cost, package type, and performance. Table 1 lists the recommended analogue muxes for 1-Wire applications. All the recommended analogue muxes handle rail-to-rail analogue signals, have a small RON, and come in various package types. The microcontroller that controls the selected channel must have spare GPIO pins. If the microcontroller does not have any spare GPIO pins, it is possible to use the MAX14661 or a similar device that can be tied to the same I2C bus used by the DS2485. Conclusion This article provides a method to break up star topography 1-Wire networks by using an analogue mux from the recommended list. As with the selection of any electronic component, the supporting system should carefully examine all device specifications under all use conditions to ensure reliable operation. For more information contact Altron Arrow, +27 11 923 9600, [email protected], www.altronarrow.com Table 1. Analogue muxes for 1-Wire devices selector guide. Figure 1. Typical application circuit.
Dataweek, 30 August 2023 www.dataweek.co.za 8 REGULAR SYSTEMS, COMPONENTS, DESIGN CYT3DL has an Arm Cortex-M7 running up to 240 MHz, a WVGA GFX, and includes two unique packages: 216-pin TEQFP and 272-ball BGA. For memory, the TRAVEO CYT3DL features 4 MB flash, 128 kB work flash, 384 kB SRAM and 2 MB VRAM. The device incorporates Infineon’s low-power flash memory, multiple high-performance analogue and digital peripherals, and enables the creation of a secure Microcontroller family targets automotive systems A single module can provide up to 60 A output current, and two modules can be connected in parallel for up to 120 A. The output voltage is precisely adjustable in the range of 0,6 to 4,5 V to meet a wide range of PoL power requirements. The devices have a small output voltage deviation of ±2 mV and a low output ripple and noise of only 4 mV. All modules feature input under-voltage protection, over- and under-voltage protection on the output, output over-current protection, and short-circuit protection. The devices are also protected from over temperature. This product series is suited for applications in the fields of telecommunications, computer network industries, power distributed architectures, workstations, servers, LANs, and powering high-speed FPGAs, DSPs and ASICs. For more information contact Vepac Electronics, +27 11 454 8053, [email protected], www.vepac.co.za Reliable PoL digital regulators The encapsulated through-hole module measures 40 x 26 x 8 mm and can be integrated into new or existing DC-DC converter 60 W DC-DC FEM for military applications architectures. The module is rugged and operates over a case temperature range of -40 to 105°C for demanding military and As communications equipment continuously becomes smaller, there is an increasing need for point-of-load (PoL) power supplies to be miniaturised and to deliver high power. MORNSUN’s KD12T-40A and KD12T-60A are small-size, high-current digital PoL DC/DC converters. Infineon’s TRAVEO CYT3DL is a family of TRAVEO T2G microcontrollers targeted at automotive systems such as instrument clusters and head-up displays (HUD). TRAVEO T2G devices are manufactured using an advanced 40 nm process. computing platform. Thanks to the Cortex-M7, this device offers a single-chip solution that includes automotive functions. State-of-the-art security is integrated with secure boot support from a dedicated M0+ core and hardware to accelerate cryptographic functions. For more information contact Altron Arrow, +27 11 923 9600, [email protected], www.altronarrow.com GAIA Converter has launched a fully integrated 60 W DC-DC front-end module that greatly simplifies the design of military power converter architectures. The FLHG-60-O-N module is SWaP-optimised and meets the most stringent military and avionics standards including MIL-STD 461/704/1275 and DO160. avionics applications. The module is rated for loads up to 60 W, and operates over an input range of 16 to 60 V DC. The module operates in a ‘pass-through’ mode with low voltage drop, and includes differential and common-mode EMI filtering to meet the MIL-STD 461 EMC specification. Input transients to 100 V/50 ms according to MIL-STD 1275 (covering the characteristics of 28 V DC electrical systems in military vehicles) are clamped with the output limited to 80 V and reverse polarity and input inrush current (soft start) protection are included. This added protection helps maximise system reliability and longevity. For more information contact Accutronics, +27 11 782 8728, [email protected], www.accutronics.co.za
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Dataweek, 30 August 2023 www.dataweek.co.za 10 REGULAR SYSTEMS, COMPONENTS, DESIGN This series features a wide operating temperature range from -40 to 105°C. The regulator exhibits a no-load input current as low as 0,5 mA, high efficiency of up to 92%, output short circuit protection, and meets MIL-STD-810F vibration standard. With a wide input voltage range of 8:1, the device covers most of the front-end systems available. The design simplifies customer product selection as there is now no need to introduce multiple power modules due to changing input voltage levels. The device’s high efficiency is in the full load and over the full input voltage range. Power consumption during no-load conditions is as low as 0,024 W. With a metal casing providing excellent shielding, EMI is reduced, and heat is dissipated efficiently. The series has a temperature rating of -40 to 105°C, and integrates various protection mechanisms. For more information contact Vepac Electronics, +27 11 454 8053, [email protected], www.vepac.co.za Non-isolated DC/DC switching regulator With STMicroelectronics’ Smart Home solutions, designs can be tailored to the perfect connected and intelligent home, where functionalities are simplified, security is enhanced, and energy consumption is optimised. By integrating advanced sensors, microcontrollers, and wireless communication technologies, STMicroelectronics enables homeowners to remotely control and monitor various aspects of their homes. The STM32WBA 32-bit Wireless series brings designers the performance, efficiency, and security required for Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) 5.3-enabled applications. The STM32WBA series focusses on the BLE 5.3 protocol, allowing non-expert developers to easily add wireless communication to a project at an affordable cost. Based on the Arm Cortex-M33 core running at 100 MHz with TrustZone technology, the STM32WBA series provides a high level of security, protecting data, IPs, and preventing hacks or device cloning. ST also offers the VL53L7CX Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor. This 8x8 mulitzone ranging sensor is perfect for any application requiring ultrawide field-of-view (FoV) like smart speakers, video projectors, content management and others. The combination of the multizone capability and the 90° FoV can enhance new use cases like gesture recognition, SLAM, and low power system activation for smart buildings. A low-power, high-sensitivity infrared sensor is also available. The STHS34PF80 sensor has been designed to measure the amount of IR radiation emitted from an object within its field of view. The information is Intelligent solutions for smart homes The Macom MASW-011174 is an SP3T PIN diode switch with integrated bias network. The device is offered in a lead-free 3 x 3 mm QFN surface-mount plastic package. This broadband, reflective switch operates from 2–18 GHz and provides 0,8 dB insertion loss and 30 dB isolation @ 18 GHz. The combination of broadband performance, along with very fast switching (less than 25 ns) and excellent settling time, makes this device ideal for many applications, including test and measurement, and broadband communication systems. This fully monolithic component features integrated DC blocks and RF bias networks, and has a low current consumption of 10 mA for the low loss path plus 10 mA for each isolation path. For more information contact RFiber Solutions, +27 12 667 5212, [email protected], www.rfibersolutions.com SP3T switch with integrated bias network digitally processed by an ASIC, which can be programmed to monitor motion, presence, or an overtemperature condition. Thanks to its high sensitivity, the STHS34PF80 can detect the presence of a human being at a distance up to 4 metres, without the need for an optical lens. Finally, ST has an IC to provide critical care for battery packs. The L9961 is part of a complete battery pack monitoring, balancing, and protection system which uses a high-precision ADC to provide cell voltage, stack voltage and temperature conversion via external NTC. This IC also integrates a dual pre-driver programmable in both HS/LS configurations for driving pack relays. The L9961 also implements battery pack fuse protection to prevent fire and explosion hazards. A 3,3 V regulator with a high current capability is available for supplying pack controller and other external circuitry in both standby and normal operation modes. Whatever your smart home needs, ST has a suitable component to provide a solution. For more information contact Altron Arrow, +27 11 923 9600, [email protected], www.altronarrow.com MORNSUN has launched the non-isolated switching DC/DC converter K78Uxx-1000R3 (L) with an ultra-wide input voltage range of 9-75 V DC. Analog Devices’ LT3073 is a 3 A, ultra-low noise, high PSRR linear regulator, which features 45 mV dropout and ultra-fast time response. With an input range of 0,6 to 5,5 V, the regulator integrates a digitally programmable output of 0,5 to 4,2 V. The device has an ultra-low RMS noise of 1,2 µV (10 Hz to 100 kHz), and an ultra-low 1/f noise of 7 µVP-P from 0,1 to 10 Hz. The LT3073 incorporates a unique tracking feature (VIOC) to control the upstream switching regulator to maintain a constant voltage across the LT3073 and minimise power dissipation. A precision current monitor provides power monitoring for system energy management, while precision current limiting allows users to minimise input power supply size and cost. Built-in protection includes UVLO, internal current limit, and thermal shutdown with hysteresis. The wide bandwidth and high PSRR permit the use of small ceramic capacitors, saving bulk capacitance and cost. The LT3073 is ideal Ultra-low noise linear regulator for powering high-performance FPGAs, data converters, RF, and noise-sensitive signal chain applications. For more information contact RS Components, +27 11 691 9300, [email protected], www.rs-online.co.za
Dataweek, 30 August 2023 www.dataweek.co.za 11 TELECOMMUNICATIONS, WIRELESS, IoT, RF & MICROWAVE FEATURE OPTOELECTRONICS, PHOTONICS, DISPLAYS & LIGHTING ADLINK offers comprehensive industrial-grade touch monitors and smart panels with in-house value-added customisation. Being a member of the Intel Partner Alliance, ADLINK teams up with AUO Display Plus to ensure products with solid-build quality, a significantly lower total cost of ownership (TCO), and a fast time-to-market. These industrial monitors are offered as either open frame models or as true flat monitors. The open frame series ranges in size from 10,1- to 43-inch and feature a 10-point multi-touch input. Mounting of the monitors is either panel, VESA or stand mount. The true flat monitor series is available in three sizes: 21,5-, 23,8- and 27-inch. This series also features a 10-point multi-touch input and is available in either a VESA or stand mount. All touch screens in these series have an IP65 rating. For more information contact Rugged Interconnect Technologies, +27 21 975 8894, [email protected], www.ri-tech.co.za Touch screen enables wise data visualisation As manufacturing processes continue to become more sophisticated, the importance and effectiveness of advanced DVI solutions escalate, presenting opportunities for improved quality control. DVI leverages cutting-edge technologies such as machine learning, computer vision, and artificial intelligence. These technologies can analyse various visual data in real time, surpassing human capabilities in speed, accuracy, and consistency. DVI solutions present manufacturers with an opportunity to identify defects with high precision, preventing costly recalls of products, and potential damage to reputation. Advancing quality control In the complex realm of manufacturing, Defect Visual Inspection (DVI) has emerged as a critical process, evolving significantly over time. The landscape of visual inspection has transformed from manual checks performed by artisans to AI-enhanced automated systems. The last decade has brought forth the next wave of DVI evolution: AI and deep learning. These technologies have revolutionised visual inspection. Modern systems, such as the DVI solution developed by Avnet Silica in partnership with Deep Vision Consulting, can learn to identify defects in products from imagery examples, improving their accuracy over time. They can analyse complex patterns and detect defects that earlier systems would miss. These advancements have allowed production lines to move towards inspection systems that can adapt and improve continually. The tool recently unveiled by Avnet Silica is a state-of-the-art solution that perfectly demonstrates the developments in defect visual inspection technology. This ground-breaking technology offers real-time and precise fault detection by fusing cutting-edge machine-learning algorithms with first-rate image processing methods. The versatility of the DVI tool, which makes it useful in a variety of industries, is one of its main advantages, as this tool can efficiently find flaws and maintain product quality in a variety of manufacturing contexts, whether it be for electronics, automobiles, medicines, or packaging. But perhaps even more impressive is the fact that the solution doesn’t require the end user to have experience in using or setting up machine-learning systems. Instead, the user simply takes between 10-30 images of a product without any imperfections, and the solution takes care of the rest. This 100% AI-based inspection system uses a system-on-module (SoM) to handle the processing in conjunction with the proprietary ‘Defect Visual Inspection’ software library. Photos of a product with no imperfections are taken via the software library. The system is then allowed to go through a short phase of learning before being able to spot product defects in a production line with very high accuracy. This solution is perfect for companies looking to deploy a DVI solution quickly, without the need for knowledge of deploying machine learning solutions. For more information contact Avnet Silica, [email protected], www.avnet.com/wps/portal/silica
Dataweek, 30 August 2023 www.dataweek.co.za 12 TELECOMMUNICATIONS, WIRELESS, IoT, RF & MICROWAVE FEATURE OPTOELECTRONICS, PHOTONICS, DISPLAYS & LIGHTING TouchGFX is ST’s free-to-use framework that helps create graphical user interfaces on STM32 microcontrollers. Written in C++, the engine takes advantage of optimisations on ST devices. TouchGFX works under the assumption that interfaces consist of screens users navigate. The framework is intuitive and also extensive, as it handles 2D and 3D objects, videos, animations, and transitions. Additionally, the ability to access the code generated allows for optimisation by experienced engineers. A full set of TouchGFX documentation provides information on the framework’s APIs or available development tools. TouchGFX Designer is a utility with a WYSIWYG interface where designers create exactly what the users will see and interact with. A startup screen helps choose the demo application, an ST development board, and then configures the project. Hence, running example codes and demos takes minutes, which means creating proofs-of-concept faster. UI elements in TouchGFX Designer often take the form of widgets one adds and configures through the utility’s interface. TouchGFX Simulator is available as part of the package to help developers preview the graphical user interface before uploading it onto a chosen MCU. TouchGFX has now been upgraded to version 4.22, which sees many new features. Graphical assets take up a lot of memory Upgraded GUIs on STM32 microcontrollers space and usually reduce the quality of results in a downgrade of the user interface. The bundled L8 compression can now compress a file by up to 75% with no downgrade, thanks to the Chrom-ART accelerator embedded in the STM32 microcontrollers. For all L8 images, the user has the option to choose between three compression methods: L4, LZW9 (Lempel-Ziv-Welch), and Run Length Encoding (RLE). There is also an auto option that automatically forces the compiler to choose the most optimised compression method based on its new file size and rendering time on the target processor. Offline mode has also been introduced into the latest version, which enables users Scientists at Sydney Nano and the School of Physics have developed a new photonic radar system that delivers contactless, high-definition detection of vital signs. This technology, still in its infancy, could be further developed for use in ICUs and aged-care facilities. It could also be used for people with sleep apnoea or for infants where there is a concern with breathing. Constant monitoring of vital health signs is needed in a variety of clinical environments. At present, this is mostly achieved via wired or invasive contact systems. In certain cases, however, these contact Precise non-invasive monitoring of vital signs to download demos and examples to run thereafter without an internet connection. A more powerful proxy configuration tool is shipped with the new version to satisfy complex coding environments. It is now easier and more practical to use TouchGFX Designer from behind a corporate firewall or on a limited bandwidth connection. TouchGFX 4.22 is all about the relationship developers have with their UI-building tools. This update puts an emphasis on how users interact with the framework and aids the overall experience. For more information contact Altron Arrow, +27 11 923 9600, [email protected], www.altronarrow.com systems are not suitable for application. Camera systems have also been used to monitor vital signs, but these systems are sensitive to skin colour and lighting conditions. The thermal cameras deployed also have limited resolution. Scientists at the University of Sydney Nano Institute and the NSW Smart Sensing Network have now developed a photonic radar system that allows for highly precise, non-invasive monitoring. The system was demonstrated by monitoring the pauses in breathing in cane toads where the system was able to accurately detect the change in breathing. “Photonic radar uses a light-based, photonics system – rather than traditional electronics – to generate, collect and process the radar signals. This approach allows for very wideband generation of radio frequency (RF) signals, offering highly precise and simultaneous, multiple tracking of subjects,” said lead author Ziqian Zhang, a PhD student in the School of Physics. The system combined this approach with light detection and ranging (LiDAR). The radar generated 10 GHz-wide SF RF signals in the Ka-band (26,5 to 40 GHz) to detect the respiratory activities, achieving a range of 13,7 mm with micrometre-level accuracy. This high resolution and accuracy are essential to resolve the delicate vital signs of the cane toad, even with an undersized animal cross-section. The system then used a LiDAR vital sign detection monitoring based on the same microwave photonic source, showing that LiDAR and radar could be used together as a complementary system. This hybrid approach, radar plus LiDAR, delivered a vital sign detection system with a resolution down to six millimetres with micrometre-level accuracy, which is suitable for clinical environments. For more information visit www.nature.com
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