Rohde & Schwarz extends portable analyzer frequency ranges up to 44 GHz

New base models for the rugged R&S Spectrum Rider FPH analyzers take spectrum analysis capability up to 44 GHz. They combine the functionality of benchtop instruments and the lightweight portability of a handheld instrument, with intuitive features to make high performance measuring on the go fast and simple.

The R&S Spectrum Rider FPH combines the functionality of benchtop instruments and the lightweight portability of a handheld instrument.

Rohde & Schwarz has extended its popular R&S Spectrum Rider FPH family with the introduction of new base models offering measurement frequencies up to 44 GHz. A new 44 GHz model has been added to the existing R&S FPH models having measurement frequencies from 5 kHz to 6, 13.6, and 26.5 GHz. In addition, three new versions with tracking generators are available with measurement frequencies up to 13.6, 26.5 and 44 GHz.

The R&S Spectrum Rider FPH was the industry’s first handheld spectrum analyzer to deliver solid RF performance for measurements in the field and in the lab. Large buttons and multi-touch gesture screen make it very easy to operate. New higher frequency models enable the versatile R&S Spectrum Rider to perform a broader range of measurement tasks. With high sensitivity of –160 dBm and measurement accuracy of typically 0.5 dB between 10 MHz and 3 GHz, the R&S Spectrum Rider offers class-leading RF performance. The new models support field applications such as verification of 5G, broadcast, radar, defence and satellite communications links.

Weighing just 3.2 kg for 44 GHz model, the R&S Spectrum Rider is optimised for mobile use. Its battery lasts up to 4.5 hours, making it the most lasting 44 GHz handheld spectrum analyzer for field task. The backlit keypad allows users to work in the dark, and the non-reflective display supports a daylight mode for improved readability in direct sunlight.

This handheld spectrum analyzer family boasts a large-format capacitive touchscreen that makes it easy to intuitively adjust settings such as frequency, span and reference level, and to set markers. Plus, large buttons and a practical multifunction wheel facilitate operation with gloves in outdoor environments. The analyzer can be remotely controlled via USB, or LAN and, for even more convenience, the R&S MobileView app for iOS or Android provides seamless remote control of the device.

The R&S Spectrum Rider spectrum analyzers are part of the R&S Essentials portfolio.

All models are now available from Rohde & Schwarz and selected distribution partners.

VCSEL modules for 3D gesture recognition

Sensor solutions provider ams has expanded its family of vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) devices with four new modules for 3D gesture recognition.

Combining a VCSEL emitter and photodiode in one compact package, the Bidos P2433 Q flood illuminator is available in four different versions including two different fields-of-illumination and two output power levels. The new devices, says the company, simplify the integration effort for system suppliers for applications that utilize 3D sensing technology.

For augmented and virtual reality devices, as well as other 3D world-facing applications, the focus is on maximum user experience combined with compact and light-weight design. In the 3D sensing market, says the company, VCSELs have a huge impact due to their good beam quality, cost efficiency, and simple design.

“With the expansion of our Bidos family we offer one of the smallest VCSEL packages available on the market for 3D applications at given power levels and field-of-illumination”, says Simon Gubser, Product Manager at ams OSRAM. “By integrating the matching emitter and photodiode in one compact module, we reduce the installation effort for our customers significantly.”

The VCSEL-based modules with a size of 3.3 mm x 2.4 mm are suitable for 3D sensing applications using Time-of-Flight (ToF) measurement, which require a homogeneous illumination of the scene. Due to their wavelength of 940 nm, all modules are also free from the red glow effect, which is perceived by the human eye as disturbing flickering.

Module Features:

  • VCSEL Power Array with typical 3W optical output power, resp. 6.5W for double junction versions
  • Efficiency up to 45% with double junction VCSEL
  • Wavelength: 940nm
  • Multiple FoI (Field of Illumination) available
  • Compact module footprint of 3.3 mm x 2.4 mm x 1.2 mm
  • Integrated monitoring photodiode with high linearity for simple eye safety integration

The two higher power modules with 6.5 watts use dual-junction VCSELs for high performance and efficiency of up to 45%. In addition, a photodiode monitoring system is integrated into the module as a special protection mechanism for eye safety. If the photodiode registers a change in the incidence of light – for example, if the optics are damaged – the current supply to the VCSEL is interrupted.

Besides 3D gesture recognition, says the company, the four new modules can also be used in industrial robotics for obstacle avoidance and virtual fencing, or in 3D face authentication systems in smart door locks or point-of-sale payment terminals.

more information: https://www.osram.com/os/products/product-promotions/vcsel/bidos-family.jsp

Vishay Intertechnology Releases AEC-Q100 Qualified Ambient Light Sensor

For Automotive and Consumer Applications, Device Offers High Dynamic Range to 228 klux and Resolution of 0.0034 lx/ct for Dark Lens Designs

The Optoelectronics group of Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. today introduced a new AEC-Q100 qualified ambient light sensor for automotive and consumer applications where very high sensitivity is needed for sensing light through dark cover materials. The Vishay Semiconductors VEML6031X00 features a highly sensitive photodiode, low noise amplifier, 16-bit ADC, and infrared (IR) channel in a miniature, opaque 2.67 mm by 2.45 mm surface-mount package with a low 0.6 mm profile.

The Automotive Grade device released today enables ambient light spectral sensitivity close to that of the human eye. The sensor offers detection with highly linear behavior from 0 lx to 228 klux — eliminating the need for a correction formula — while its resolution down to 0.0034 lx/ct allows for operation in applications with low transmittance (dark) lens designs. The VEML6031X00’s IR channel enables light source detection and sensitivity adjustments to compensate for lux errors.

Offering a high operating temperature range to +110 °C and a robust package with an improved signal-to-noise ratio, the device will be used for display backlight controls, infotainment systems, rearview mirror dimming, interior lighting control systems, and heads-up displays. The sensor supports the easy to use I2C bus communication interface for these applications and offers an interrupt function.

The flexible device supports multiple slave addresses for applications requiring more than one sensor, while a selectable integration time down to 3.125 ms allows for fast response times. The sensor provides excellent temperature compensation to maintain stability despite changes in ambient temperature and features low shut down current consumption of 0.5 μA typical.

The VEML6031X00 features a supply voltage range of 2.5 V to 3.6 V and I2C bus voltage range of 1.7 V to 3.6 V. RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, and Vishay green, the device offers a Moisture Sensitivity Level of 2a and a floor life of four weeks in accordance with J-STD-020.

Samples and production quantities of the new ambient light sensor are available now, with lead times of eight to 12 weeks for large orders.

M5Stack Launched a 32-bit RISC-V Bluetooth Module embedded with Espressif-C3 Chipset

M5Stack just added a new family to its popular series of modules with the Stamp-C3. the new Stamp-C3 features ESPRESSIF ESP32-C3 RISC-V MCU with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5 (LE) connectivity for IoT edge devices such as home appliances and Industrial Automation. By combining RSA-3072-based secure boot and the AES-128-XTS-based flash encryption, M5Stack offers a more secure way to answer the Bluetooth security concerns, while also making it optimal for industrial IoT equipment collecting sensors data within a factory or a building.

The Stamp-C3 is based on a 32-bit RISC-V microcontroller and operates at a maximum clock frequency of 160 MHz. With 400 KB of internal RAM and 4 MB Flash, it can facilitate many different use-cases involving connected devices. The Stamp-C3 provides full Bluetooth® 5.0  long-range (LR) support including long-range and mesh networking functions and achieves building devices with great coverage and improved usability. Furthermore, the exceptional heat resistance plastic enclosure is sustained at a higher operating temperature.

Product Features

  • MULTIPLE STYLE: Three types of soldering options are available(SMT, DIP, flywire), with a high-temperature resistant plastic enclosure, Peak temperature = 230℃
  • HIGH INTEGRATION: Stamp-C3 contains 5V->3.3V DC/DC design, GPIOx13, programmable RGB LED x1, Reset button x1, button x1, 3D antenna,providing stable and reliable wireless communication.
  • LOW-CODE DEVELOPMENT: Stamp-C3 is fully compatible with Arduino, ESP32-IDF, and other mainstream development platforms to quickly build various applications. (UIFlow support coming soon)

Applications

  • DIY Prototyping
  • Home Appliances
  • Industrial Automation

more information: https://shop.m5stack.com/products/m5stamp-pico-5pcs

Seeed’s Open Parts Library (OPL) adds SnapEDA models for faster electronics production

The addition of SnapEDA CAD models into the OPL further streamlines parts selection, design and manufacturing

Today, Seeed, a leading global PCB manufacturer based in Shenzhen, is adding SnapEDA computer-aided design (CAD) models to the Seeed and ShenZhen Open Parts Libraries (OPLs), to help electronics designers move from idea to fabrication with ease.

The OPLs are a collection of commonly used components, designed to be used with the Seeed Fusion PCB Assembly (PCBA) service, that are widely available in the supply chain, cost-effective, and design-for-manufacturing (DFM) friendly. Today it contains a wide selection of over 150,000 commonly used parts, from integrated circuits (ICs) to passives, to cut costs and reduce the turnaround times for turnkey PCB assembly.

During the parts selection stage, the OPLs save engineers time and reduce delays, since the parts are carefully selected to ensure they are widely available in the local supply chain, eliminating the need to import parts and undergo lengthy and costly customs clearance processes. This is especially helpful given the current global component shortage affecting the electronics industry. In addition to preventing delays, engineers also save money since the components in these libraries are sourced from Seeed’s affiliated partners network and/or are purchased in bulk.

During the design and manufacturing stage, the addition of the SnapEDA CAD models to the OPLs make them even more valuable. By downloading ready-to-use CAD models for the parts they select, engineers can save weeks of time, and reduce costly prototype iterations during the manufacturing process.

To get started with the new SnapEDA integration, engineers simply visit the Downloads section on the Seeed’s OPLs. Once they click the Symbol, Footprint and 3D model link, a viewer will popup allowing engineers to preview the models, and download instantly.

“With the current constraints in the global electronic component supply chain, we’re pleased to be able to support the Seeed and ShenZhen open parts libraries, which are helping engineers streamline part selection and manufacturing. With the addition of SnapEDA models, engineers will now be able to design-in these parts in mere seconds,”

said Natasha Baker, Founder and CEO of SnapEDA.

Before SnapEDA, engineers needed to spend hours of time creating digital models from scratch. With the sheer number of components a project can have, the process of creating and verifying each component can be tedious and error ridden. This is why SnapEDA created the first search engine focused on CAD models, as well as its own patented verification technology to optimize the quality of each model.

Over 15 PCB design formats are accessible with the new SnapEDA integration in the Seeed and ShenZhen OPLs, including Altium, KiCad, Fusion360, Cadence Allegro, OrCAD, EAGLE, DesignSpark PCB, DipTrace, Proteus & more.

Engineers can also find SnapEDA’s symbols, footprints and 3D models on the main SnapEDA website, as well as on distributors’ websites including Digikey, Mouser, and RS Components’ DesignSpark. SnapEDA can also be found in software tools like Autodesk Fusion 360, Proteus and DipTrace. Millions of engineers are benefiting from the syndication of these CAD models on over 30 affiliated partners’ platforms.

To learn more about the SnapEDA’s network, visit www.snapeda.com/syndication

Signal Conditioner for Sensorless BLDC Operations

This is a back EMF signal conditioning circuit that can be used to develop high-voltage sensorless motor drivers. When a sensorless algorithm is used to control the BLDC motor speed, the Back EMF (BEMF) signals are used. Based on zero crossing of BEMF signals, motor commutation is decided in the firmware. The signal conditioning circuit has mainly three blocks: the first is a low-pass filter for each phase voltage the second is a comparator circuit for determining the zero crosspoints and the third is a high-speed optocoupler. The optocoupler provides isolation between high-voltage motor driver circuitry and microcontroller.

Signal Conditioner for Sensorless BLDC Operations – [Link]

4-Channel Remote Receiver Using NRF24L01 Radio Module – Arduino Compatible

Controlling 4 devices using an RF remote is very easy with this project. This is an Arduino compatible project. NRF24L01 module, Atmega328 microcontroller, 3.3V regulator, and few other components are part of the project. Onboard power LED and an additional functional LED is provided. The project provides 4x TTL outputs that can be interfaced with a relay board, solid-state relay boards, motor drivers, and other projects.  The circuit works with 5V DC and requires a few milliamps current. D2 Power LED, D1 optional function LED.

4-Channel Remote Receiver Using NRF24L01 Radio Module – Arduino Compatible – [Link]

POV (Persistence of Vision) – Open-Source Arduino Nano Hardware

This is an easy and simple hardware to create a POV display. The hardware consists of a Hall sensor, Arduino Nano, 17 x 5mm LEDS of various colors, etc. The Hall Sensor is connected to analog pin A5 with a pull-up resistor. The circuit works with 3.7V to 5V DC and a 3.7V battery is ideal to use. The user may use as many LEDS as required. This project can also be used to create many applications such as Bar-Graph display, LED light effects. A large 8.5 mm hole is provided to mount the motor coupling. Refer to the diagram for mounting the hall sensor, motor, and magnet.

POV (Persistence of Vision) – Open-Source Arduino Nano Hardware – [Link]

Balanced Line Receiver for Digital Signal Over Twisted Pair CAT-5 Cable

The circuit presented here is a high-frequency differential line receiver amplifier that has excellent common-mode rejection at its inputs. The project is an ideal solution for a receiver of a digital signal or video signals that are transmitted over long distances on twisted-pair cables like CAT5. Category 5 cables are very common in office settings and are extensively used for data transmission. These cables can also be used for the digital signal or analog transmission of signals such as video. These long cables pick up noise from the environment they pass through. This noise does not favor one conductor over another and therefore is a common-mode signal. A receiver that rejects the common-mode signal on the cable can greatly enhance the signal-to-noise ratio performance of the link. This project is tested with 100Hz to 1Mhz square wave signal, however, it can support higher frequency.

Balanced Line Receiver for Digital Signal Over Twisted Pair CAT-5 Cable – [Link]

Phase-Shifted Full-Bridge PWM Controller Module – LM5046 Breakout Board

This is a Phase-Shifted Full-Bridge PWM LM5046 carrier board that contains all of the features necessary to implement a phase-shifted full-bridge topology power converter. All inputs and outputs pins are accessible using the header connector. High efficiency DC-DC converter can be created using LM5046 carrier board + External H-Bridge and Transformer. Refer to the datasheet of LM5046 and schematic to configure the frequency, current feedback, delays, etc.

Phase-Shifted Full-Bridge PWM Controller Module – LM5046 Breakout Board – [Link]

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