Features

Tiny Green PC has launched the fit-PC3i; based on the tiny, robust, fanless, ultra-low-energy fit-PC3 compact computer, it offers an enhanced graphics performance and connectivity to digital signage, surveillance and telecommunications applications. The fit-PC3i offers all the features of the fit-PC3, enhanced with an on board SIM socket, integrated fit-Headless HDMI plug, dual GbE networking and CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) support for the dual HDMI graphics channels.

ams AG has introduced an example design for lithium pedelec/e-bike batteries which implements accurate cell monitoring and balancing without the need for a microcontroller in the Battery Management System (BMS). According to ams battery pack and pedelec manufacturers which use the design will benefit from bill-of-materials (BoM) cost savings and a simpler circuit design, compared to batteries currently in production.

Analog Devices has introduced an integrated family of efficient power management ICs (integrated circuits) targeting compact, high density power solutions for RF agile radio and FPGA/processor-based (field-programmable gate array) applications. The ADP505x family of power management ICs has been designed as an integrated power solution for picocell and femtocell base stations, portable and handheld devices as well as most applications needing a compact, integrated power solution.

Crystek has extended the frequency range of its high performance RF coaxial cable assemblies to 50 GHz. The new 50 GHz low-loss RF cable assemblies feature corrosion-resistant 2.4 mm 303 stainless steel connectors and three levels of shielding for low attenuation (loss) over distance (1.44 dB/ft. at 50 GHz). They are in stock in standard lengths of 24", 39.4" and 48", with custom lengths available.

STMicroelectronics has revealed an advanced new product family enabling power supply designers to drive up energy efficiency in applications such as solar inverters and electric vehicles, enterprise computing, and industrial motor drives. The device is a high-voltage silicon carbide (SiC) power MOSFET that has achieved a temperature rating of 200°C. SiC properties help save at least 50% of the energy normally wasted passing through conventional silicon power transistors and the devices can be physically smaller for a high breakdown voltage. This technology is seen as essential for continued improvement in system energy efficiency, miniaturization, and cost.

HARTING has introduced a new high-temperature connector family, the Han HighTemp Series, which has been designed to enable the reliable transmission of signals and power at temperatures up to 200°C in industrial environments.

Link Microtek, a manufacturer of infra-red, RF and microwave products, has expanded its Azdec secure infra-red naval communications system with the addition of new peer-to-peer headsets that allow two mobile operators to speak directly to each other in areas where there is no IR antenna coverage.

Diodes Incorporated has introduced a dimmable buck LED driver enabling a reduction in component count and PCB size in 12V and 24V LED lighting systems and MR16-type LED lamps. The AL8807B is a hysteretic driver with an integrated power switch and operates at a switching frequency of 1MHz. The output current is set using a single external sense resistor.

Murata has developed a surface-mount device (SMD)-type ultrasonic sensor and the product will be manufactured by Hakui Murata Manufacturing, with production starting in summer 2014. Constructed in an ultra low profile package measuring just 5.2 x 5.2 mm and 1.15 mm thick, the MA40H1S-R series is capable of delivering up to 100 dB sound pressure at 40 kHz.

STMicroelectronics has announced a raft of analogue and mixed-signal devices targeting the rapidly growing market for wearable technology. These devices include current sensors, audio amplifiers, op amps, analogue switches, and battery gas gauges enabling ST to offer the industry’s most complete set of building blocks for creating innovative wearable applications.