MCU with Amplifier and Playback Function

Before we go to our last discussion for this week, let us do the recap. On the first post, we discussed Microchip's low-cost 8-bit PIC® microcontrollers that features a dual ADC peripheral. Second, we discussed Intersil's highly integrated li-ion battery charger. It is a complete battery charging solution for both li-ion and li-polymer batteries. Then, on the third post, we discussed ROHM's breakthrough in the field of wearable devices. ROHM was able to design a key-shaped sensor device, combining sensors from ROHM and Kionix with LAPIS Semiconductors Bluetooth® LE communication IC and sensor hub microcontroller. On our recent post, we discussed about ROHM's power management ICs designed for Intel Atom E600.  

For our last discussion, we will be dealing with ROHM's microcontroller with amplifier and playback function. It is a low power MCU that integrates an 8-bit low power MCU core, speech synthesis circuit, high efficiency Class D speaker amplifier, non-volatile memory, and oscillator circuit on a single chip, making audio playback possible by simply connecting to a speaker. ROHM ML610Q304 also provides hardware-based audio playback operation that minimizes the load placed on the MCU for system control processing. Its newly designed high-efficiency Class D amp reduces current consumption during audio playback by approx. 40% while maintaining volume and is easier to incorporate into battery-driven devices.

 Key Features

1. Hardware-based voice playback function simplifies design
Voice playback operation is performed using hardware, which significantly lightens the load on the MCU for system control processing and simplifies playback considerably.

2. 40% less current consumption during voice playback (vs. our conventional products)
A class-leading low power consumption 8bit microcontroller is integrated along with a newly developed Class D speaker amp that provides digital output, resulting in higher power efficiency and 40% less current consumption during voice output compared with conventional analog Class AB speaker amps – while maintaining volume levels. (*based on LAPIS Semiconductor evaluation criteria).

3. Monolithic design with integrated microcontroller and audio playback function reduces the number of parts required and contributes to device miniaturization
All functions required for audio playback are incorporated into a single chip, including a low-power MCU, speech synthesis circuit, high efficiency Class D speaker amp, non-volatile memory, and high accuracy oscillator circuit. Offered in a compact (5mm x 5mm) 28pin package (WQFN) that contributes to end-product miniaturization.

4. Multiple fail-safe functions provide superior reliability
(1) Speaker terminal disconnection detection
Detects no-playback condition due to disconnection between the microcontroller and speakers by monitoring for changes in resistance value between the speaker terminals and can alert users beforehand by lighting up LEDs.

(2) Speaker terminal short-circuit detection
Detects no-playback condition due to short-circuit by monitoring the voltage level of the speaker terminals and shuts down operation in order to prevent possible damage.

(3) Class D speaker amp overcurrent prevention
Ensures that the sound generator circuit (PWM circuit) does not stay fixed at the H level for over a specified amount of time in order to prevent excessive heat generation due to overcurrent.


To learn more about ROHM's MCU with Amplifier and Playback Function:
http://www.eeweb.com/company-news/rohm/mcu-with-amplifier-and-playback-function

Power Management ICs for Intel Atom E600

Before we discuss our fourth topic, let us first do some recap. On our first discussion, we discussed about Microchip's MCU with dual peripheral. It is a low-cost designed MCU that features a dual ADC peripheral. Second, we discussed about Intersil's highly integrated li-ion battery charger. It is a complete battery charger designed for single cell Li-ion and Li-polymer batteries. Then we discussed about ROHM's wearable key device. It is a breakthrough key-shaped sensor synergy from ROHM and Kionix with LAPIS Semiconductors Bluetooth® LE communication IC and sensor hub microcontroller. And now, we will be discussing, still from ROHM, the power management ICs.

 
CPU, memory modules, evaluation and development boards, IOH, and clock IC are examples of main system blocks. ROHM power management ICs supplies power to the main system blocks. ROHM's BD9591AMWV and BD9594AMWV are designed specifically for Intel® Atom™ E600 series processors. A complicated supply sequence controller is also built in, eliminating the need for a special power supply control IC while enabling configuration of an optimized system power supply and environment for the said processor. 

Features

• Complicated power supply sequence (which conventionally was performed via microcontroller) is built in, reducing user design load.
• System-optimized efficient power supply design requires only a single FET for greater compactness.
• Used in conjunction with an BU7335MWV CGIC provides additional platform support.

To learn about ROHM's Power Management ICs, click on the link below:
PMICs: Power Management ICs

Wearable Key Device by ROHM

Before we continue, last do some recap. On the first post for this week, we discussed about Microchip's MCU with Dual ADC Peripheral. It is a low-cost 8-bit MCU, which are available in 14 and 20 pins. The second is Intersil's ISL78692. It is a complete battery charger for single-cell Lithium chemisty batteries. Now, for the third post, we will discuss about wearable key devices by ROHM.


Most wearable devices today are designed to do monitoring, i.e. counting steps, estimating calories burned, and so many others. ROHM engineers envisioned to be on top of the growing market on this trend. Which is why, they developed a breakthrough key-shaped device utilizing sensor synergy and sensor fusion technology, combining sensors from ROHM and Kionix with LAPIS Semiconductors Bluetooth® LE communication IC and sensor hub microcontroller.

Integrated sensors include a 3-in-1 proximity + ambient light sensor + IR LED, optical UV sensor, MEMS accelerometer and gyroscope, piezoresistive barometric pressure sensor, ultra-high sensitivity MI (Magnetic Impedance) sensor, and RGB sensor. Power is provided by an efficient 110mA/hr lithium ion battery that enables continuous operation for over 8 hours while requiring only 1 hour to fully charge (via USB).

Key Features:

• Activity Monitoring
• The lightweight form factor makes carrying effortless and unobtrusive. Not only can the device estimate calories burned and count the number of steps taken, it can even detect when the wearer is riding in a vehicle (i.e. bus, train, car) or walking up/down stairs – and track time traveled.
• Gesture Control
• Lock and unlock compatible tablets and smartphones by holding the key device and simply drawing a ‘U' or ‘L' in the air, providing greater convenience and peace of mind.
• UV Measurement
• Attach the device externally around the neck or attached to a belt to measure the amount of UV radiation in order to prevent sunburn or excessive exposure.
• Distance Measurement
• Point the key at the top of a well-known (preloaded) metropolitan landmark or building in order to instantly obtain the distance and approximate walking time.
• Metal Detection 
• Detect small foreign metal objects in food using the built-in high-sensitivity MI sensor – simply point the device at the food to obtain a reading.

To learn more about ROHM's breakthrough key-shaped device for wearable devices, click on the link below:
Wearable Key Device

Highly Integrated Li-Ion Battery Charger

On the first post we had, we discussed about Microchip's Low-Cost PIC® Microcontroller. Now, we will be discussing about Li-Ion/Li-Polymer battery charger. It is Intersil's ISL78692, a complete battery charger for single-cell Lithium chemistry batteries.

ISL78692 operates with an input as low as 2.65V (cold crank case), reverse battery leakage of 700nA, 1% initial voltage accuracy, and ambient temperature range of -40˚C to +85˚C. This charger is designed to work with various types of AC adapters or a USB port. It operates as a linear charger when the AC adapter is a voltage source.

The typical applications of this device are automotive systems, eCall systems, and backup battery systems. The figure below shows the simple application circuit using Intersil ISL78692.

Theory of Operation

The ISL78692 is an integrated charger for single-cell Lithium chemistry batteries. The ISL78692 functions as a traditional linear charger when powered with a voltage source adapter. When powered with a current-limited adapter, the charger minimizes the thermal dissipation commonly seen in traditional linear chargers. 

As a linear charger, the ISL78692 charges a battery in the popular constant current (CC) and constant voltage (CV) profile. The constant charge current IREF is programmable up to 1A with an external resistor or a logic input. The charge voltage VCH has 1% accuracy over the entire recommended operating condition range. The charger preconditions the battery with a 10% typical of the programmed current at the beginning of a charge cycle until the battery voltage is verified to be above the minimum fast charge voltage, VTRICKLE. This low current preconditioning charge mode is named trickle mode. The verification takes 15 cycles of an internal oscillator whose period is programmable with a timing capacitor on the time pin. A thermal-foldback feature protects the device from the thermal concern typically seen in linear chargers. The charger reduces the charge current automatically as the IC internal temperature rises above +100°C to prevent further temperature rise. The thermal-foldback feature guarantees safe operation when the printed circuit board (PCB) is space limited for thermal dissipation.

To learn more about Intersil's ISL78692, click on the link below:
Highly Integrated Li-Ion Battery Charger

MCU with Dual ADC Peripheral

Last week, we discussed about Coilcraft's Chip Inductors, now we'll discuss about various tech advances. First up, Microchip's MCU that features a dual ADC peripheral. Microchip's engineers are looking for ways to make their designs more efficient but of lower-cost.


PIC16LF1554 and PIC16LF1559 combine both low power and dual ADC with hardware support for advanced touch-sensing and general-purpose sensor applications. Both MCUs have either 14 or 20 pins that combine up to 17 ADC channels with automated hardware CVD modules to implement capacitive sensing and other front-end sampling applications with minimal software overhead. These MCUs are eXtreme Low Power (XLP) compliant with active and sleep current of 35 µA/MHz and 30 nA, respectively, for applications where energy conservation is paramount.

This unique ADC configuration enables more efficient sensor acquisition and assists with advanced touch-sensing techniques. It is used for extremely noise environments, low-power applications, matrix keypads and water-resistant designs.

High-Performance RISC CPU:

• Only 49 Instruction to Learn
• Operating Speed:
• DC - 32 MHz clock input
• DC - 125 ns instruction cycle
•  Interrupt Capability with Automatic Context Saving
• 16-Level Deep Hardware Stack with Optional Overflow/Underflow Reset
• Direct, Indirect and Relative Addressing modes:
• Two full 16-bit File Select Registers (FSRs)
• FSRs can read program and data memory

To learn more about Microchip PIC16LF1554/9, click on the link below:
8-Bit PIC MCU with Dual ADC Peripheral

High Frequency Chip Inductors

To start, let us recap what we have discussed this week, we have AE235RAA and ST235RAA. Both are chip inductors. AE235RAA series is an outgassing compliant chip inductor, while ST235RAA is a chip inductor for critical applications. To end this three part post, we will now be discussing about ST312RAA.

ST312RAA is like ST235RAA, it is also a chip inductor for critical application. It has a small 0603 size, exceptional Q-factor, and high SRFs that make this series ideal for high frequency application. It has: a ceramic core material, silver-palladium-platinum-glass frit, ambient temperature of -40°C to 125°C @ Imax current and 125°C to 140°C @ derated current, and temperature coefficient of inductance 25 to 155 ppm/°C.

Figure 1 shows the graph that presents inductance (nH) versus frequency (MHz). Figure 2 shows the graph the presents Q-factor versus frequency (MHz).

Figure 1: Typical L vs Frequency

Figure 2: Typical Q vs Frequency

ST312RAA series comes in 48 part numbers each with different specifications. It has specs such as: inductance (nH), percent tolerance, Q min, SRF min (MHz), DCR max (Ω), and Imax (mA). For example, part number ST312RAA1N6JLZ has:

• Inductance = 1.6 nH
• Percent tolerance = 5
• Q min = 26
• SRF min = >5000 MHz
• DCR max = 0.022 Ω
• Imax = 700 mA
• Color code = Red

So if you want to know more of ST312RAA Chip Inductors, click on the link below:
High Frequency Chip Inductors 

Chip Inductor for Critical Applications

Just a little recap, an inductor is a passive electronic component that stores energy in the form of a magnetic field. Coilcraft's chip inductors deliver high performance in the smallest possible size, with high reliability in harsh environment. The first post we discussed about a series of outgassing complaint Coilcraft chip inductors. Now we will discuss about Chip Inductors for Critical Application.

Coilcraft's ST235RAA is a series of 0402 size chip inductor. Just like the AE235RAA series, ST235RAA series has: an exceptionally high Q-factors, especially at use frequency; outstanding self-resonant frequency; tight inductance tolerance; and excellent batch-to-batch consistency. It has: a ceramic core material; ambient temperature of -40°C to 125°C with Imax, 125°C to 260°C with derated current; and temperature coefficient of inductance of 25 to 155 ppm/°C.

Figure 1 shows the graph that presents inductance (nH) versus frequency (MHz). Figure 2 shows the graph the presents Q-factor versus frequency (MHz).

FIGURE 1: Typical L vs Frequency

FIGURE 2: Typical Q vs Frequency

ST235AAA series comes in 48 different part numbers that have their distinct specifications. Specifications such as: inductance (nH); percent tolerance; Q min; SRF min (GHz); DCR max (Ω); and Imax (mA). For example, ST235RAA1N0JLZ has:

• Inductance = 1.0 nH
• Percent tolerance = 5
• Q min = 20
• SRF min = >5.00 GHz
• DCR max = 0.045 Ω
• Imax = 600 mA

So if you want to know more of ST235RAA Chip Inductors, click on the link below:
Chip Inductor Series for Critical Applications

Outgassing Complaint Coilcraft Chip Inductors

This week, we will be dealing with inductors, specifically CHIP INDUCTORS. This post is the first of three posts that we will be giving about chip inductors. An inductor is a passive electronic component that stores energy in the form of a magnetic field. Coilcraft's chip inductors deliver high performance in the smallest possible size, with high reliability in harsh environment.

In this first post, we will be discussing about a high Q-factor chip inductor, Coilcraft's AE235RAA. AE235RAA is a series of outgassing compliant chip inductors. It has an exceptionally high Q-factors, outstanding self-resonant frequency, tight inductance tolerance, and high temperature materials allow operation in ambient temperatures up to 155 °C. It also passes NASA low outgassing specifications, and has a leach-resistant base metallization with tin-lead (Sn-Pb) terminations that ensures the best possible board adhesion.

Figure 1 shows the graph that presents inductance (nH) versus frequency (MHz). Figure 2 shows the graph the presents Q-factor versus frequency (MHz).

FIGURE 1: Typical L vs Frequency

FIGURE 2: Typical Q vs Frequency

AE235RAA series comes in 37 part numbers that differs in their specs, i.e inductance (nH), percent tolerance, Q min, SRF min (GHz), DCR max (Ω), and Imax (mA). For example, part number AE235RAA1N0JSZ has:

• Inductance = 1.0 nH
• Percent tolerance = 5
• Q min = 20
• SRF min = >5.00 GHz
• DCR max = 0.045 Ω
• Imax = 600 mA

So if you want to know more of AE235RAA Chip Inductors, click on the link below:
High Q-factor Chip Inductors

Low-Noise MAX9633

A low-noise, low-distortion Op-Amp is another product of MAXIM Integrated, the MAX9633. The two main features of this Op-Amp make it suitable for industrial, medical, and test applications.

MAX9633 has an exceptionally fast settling-time and low input offset. It makes the IC an excellent solution to drive Hi-Res 12-bit to 18-bit SAR ADCs. The IC is offered in an 8-pin, 3mm x 3mm TDFN package for operation over the -40 °C to 125 °C temperature range.

MAX9633 has low input voltage Offset 200 µV and low 0.9µV/°C input offset temperature coefficient. MAXIM's engineers designed this IC the be used in applications, i.e. ADC drivers, imaging systems, motor control, and the like. So when you have projects that needs a SAR ADC Op-Amp, choose MAX9633.

For more information about this IC, click on the link below:

EEWEB: Fast Settling High-Voltage Op Amp

Dual Channel LNB Converter Regulator

The Allegro A8302 dual channel LNB converter regulator is the company's newest addition to its LNB converters. This regulator consists of both monolithic linear and switching voltage regulator, designed to provide power and interfaces signals via a coax cable in a satellite TV Rx systems. In order to properly use this component, it requires few external components, i.e boost switch and device-integrated compensation circuitry.

Allegro design engineers have taken into consideration the product's purpose and its future applications. Which is why, they designed this regulator to have two switching frequency settings programmable through I2C™ control register (563 kHz and 939 kHz) and an adjustable LNB output current limit from 250 to 950 mA.

A8302 is also design to have a device protection features and fault diagnostics. It is has both Undervoltage Lockout (UVLO) and Overload and Short Circuit Handling features. UVLO comparator monitors the voltage at the Vin and held it in disabled mode if the voltage is below the lockout threshold. On the other hand, the Overload and Short Circuit Handling feature disables the IC whenever an overload or short circuit happen. Moreover, this regulator came with an Early Power Failure (EPF) warning to prevent any damage to the device.

To know more about the product, kindly click the link below:

EEWEB: DUAL IC DEVICE TO 5th GENERATION LNB REGULATOR

Alameda Subsystem

A whole system can never function with one component missing. It will never be efficient if one component does not function correctly.

Alameda, MAXREFDES24#, a device that is composed of 6 of Maxim's flexible and programmable ICs. These ICs made Alameda suitable for industrial applications. PLCs, DCS, and Industrial control and automation applications are some of the applications that were considered in making this subsystem.

 
Moreover, Alameda has 4-channel analog output that has a DAC, signal conditioner, ultra-high-precision voltage reference, data isolator, peak current-mode flyback controller, and a LDO linear regulator. All 6 features are integrated into 1 subsystem board which makes this a 4 dense, highly accurate, galvanically isolated form factor. In other words, when your system needs the features that Alameda has, don't look for other alternative. When MAXIM designs a component it will surely satisfy the needs of its clients.

To learn more about the product, watch the video on the link below

EEWEB: Alameda Subsystem

Sensing IC this small is made for industrial use

Introducing Allegro's IC, which is a very suitable IC for motor control, load detection and management, switched-mode power supplies, and over-current fault protection uses. With these applications in mind, Allegro design engineers made sure that the ACS712 can deliver an efficient and accurate solution. They designed this IC to have only 1.2 mΩ so that the power loss would be extremely low. Allegro ACS712, with its small footprint, is capable to be tied directly to an AC line and that it can withstand a continuous current for up to 50 A.

This tiny fella has a dimension of 4.90 mm x 6.00 mm x 1.75 mm. This IC is so small that it is very useful when you're having problem with your PCB spacing. So, to all of you, whether your a student, hobbyist, or engineers, try Allegro's Low-Noise 2100 Vrms Hall Effect Current Sensor IC and you will be surely satisfied with the results. Ciao!

To learn more about the product, watch the video on the link below

EEWEB: ACS712 Current Sensing IC

For higher protection and superior sensitivity

When looking for a good current sensing IC, what are the specifications that you prioritize? Does it include a fully differential architecture? High Bandwidth? Small footprint? Has back-end amplifier? Then Allegro's ACS726 current sensor IC is all you need. ACS726 is the first current sensor IC to include a fully differential back-end amplifier (BEA). This consists of a precise, low-offset, linear Hall sensor circuit. Through a close proximity of the magnetic field to the Hall transducer, ACS726's accuracy will optimized.

This device has a dimensions 8.66 mm x 5.99 mm x 1.75 mm, so small but does a great job. With its externally adjustable gain, thru the BEA, the IC's sensitivity can be adjusted. Applications like motor control, load detection and management, switched-mode power supplies, and over-current fault protection are the reason why this device was designed.


To learn more about Allegro ACS726, click on the link below:
http://www.eeweb.com/company-news/allegro_microsystems/galvanically-isolated-current-sensor-ic/

High Performance ROSA

As the internet data usage, traffic, and usage duration increase exponentially, the internet service providers are troubled on how to suffice the need to stabilize the internet connection. ISPs nowadays are facing a challenge in order for them to deliver a good internet service to their subscribers. How can they do this? How can they stabilize their network without sacrificing the needs of their customers? One of the many answers is using the right optical transceivers that are both stable and reliable. In order to have this kind of transceiver, it should have a high reliability, high performance ROSA. Introducing Avago's very own, AFCP-R4X25PL-series. This series is a 4x25 Gb/s ROSA for 100 Gigabit Ethernet.

Avago's ROSA is specifically designed for CFP, CFP2, and CFP4 transceivers. Which is why if these types of transceivers have AFCP-R4X25PL on board, internet connectivity won't be a hassle. Calling all CFP, CFP2, and CFP4 transceiver manufacturer, re-consider using this great component, we subscribers need a stable and reliable internet connection. Ciao!


To learn more about AVAGO AFCP-R4X25PL, click on the link below

http://www.eeweb.com/company-news/avago_technologies/4x25gbs-rosa-for-100-gb-ethernet

Smallest but does a great part

Did you know that Avago Technologies is the one who made the smallest 3-channel reflective technology encoder? Well, with a size of 3.95 mm x 3.4 mm x 0.9562 mm, this reflective incremental encoder is designed ideally for high volume application. The AEDR-871x has digital outputs which is why it is suitable for printers, copiers, card readers, miniature camera modules, optometric equipments, and the likes.

 

How I wish companies like Xerox, Epson, Canon, Brother, and many others are using AEDR-871x encoders. I'm pretty sure this will yield more productivity with less maintenance and less cost. This component may be small, it's even the smallest of its kind, but it performs a great part. This device is truly a great space-saver.


Click on the link below to learn more about Avago's AEDR-871x Encoder.

http://www.eeweb.com/company-blog/avago_technologies/3-channel-high-resolution-optical-encoder

Power Adapters for Crucial Times

When it comes to health, the electronics industry plays a huge part on it. So when speaking of saving lives, it is not just enough if you have expertise, it is also important if you have the right equipment. In an ambulance or rescue vehicle, it is important that there are respirators, defibrillator, and the likes. Most of these equipments run in DC voltage. So Astrodyne, in partnership with Jerome Industries, designed a 75 W medical grade automobile power adapter, DCL power adapter series.

This adapter can be connected to the vehicle's auto plug with a 18 AWG wire, 1 meter in length. To ensure that none of these power adapters can interfere with the medical equipments that can be hazardous, this power adapters met several Safety and EMC Standards. Naming a few are IEC 60601-1, ANSI/AAMI, ES60601-1 3rd Ed, IEC 60601-1-2, IEC 61000-4-6, and several others. This means that Astrodyne's DCL power adapter series is very safe to use in medical equipments even in critical situations. With Astrodyne, "NOW YOU HAVE MEDICAL GRADE POWER"!