Articles
When two insulators become conductors
How can two materials which do not conduct electricity create an electrically conducting layer when they are joined together? This article explores the various hypotheses to answer this question. [ + ]
Generating C code from MATLAB algorithms
The speed with which an engineer can design and assess algorithm variations is critical to efficient optimisation of the design. This article explains the automated process to generate C code from MATLAB algorithms. [ + ]
DC/DC converter - setting up supply systems
This article explains how DC/DC converters can be a suitable solution to temporary interruptions such as when loads with high incoming capacitance are connected. [ + ]
Putting graphene in its place - a challenge
Putting graphene into a microchip that could outperform current silicon technology has proved difficult in the past. The answer to this problem may lie in nanoscale systems based on ultrathin layers of materials with exotic properties, called two-dimensional layered materials. Researchers at Penn State in the US applied one such material to produce improved transistor performance at an industrially relevant scale. [ + ]
Tiny motors for tiny assemblies
A Swiss company has developed a range of microrobots complete with micromotors to handle the production of microcomponents. [ + ]
Electronex exhibition is the biggest yet
The third year of Electronex, being held at the Australian Technology Park in September, is now 50% bigger than the first exhibition. [ + ]
Simplifying frequency converter testing
Traditionally, VNAs have been used to characterise the magnitude and phase performance of a mixer or frequency converter. This article features a test method that fully characterises mixers and frequency converters without reference and calibration mixers. [ + ]
Keeping track of data centre functions
Many IT administrators are unaware of the current use levels of their server racks and IT infrastructure. This article explains how RFID technology can improve the security and efficiency of data centres. [ + ]
Enclosures are the first line of defence
This article explains the international standard for enclosures (EN 60529) and defines the protection rating they receive. [ + ]
Melanin links biology and electronic sensors
There is now insight into the electrical properties of melanin and its biologically compatible ‘bioelectronic’ features. [ + ]
Monitoring and analysing lightning strikes
A lightning monitoring system detects and analyses lightning surge currents, providing a way to evaluate the actual system load. [ + ]
Hybrid energy for network power
Telecom providers across the globe are searching for ways to more efficiently power and operate their networks. [ + ]
Controlling the make-up of nanowires
Nanowires are a hot research topic, with a variety of potential applications including light-emitting diodes and sensors. [ + ]
When components need to keep their cool
This article looks at some of the various methods of heating and cooling a DUT. [ + ]
Antenna simplifies LTE indoor coverage
Distributed antenna systems (DASs) are now being deployed to provide indoor coverage. More than 80% of all mobile data calls are initiated inside a building, whether an office, airport, railway station, stadium or home and therefore it is absolutely critical for service providers to provide both good coverage and quality of service inside buildings. [ + ]