Electronic Products and Technology September 2012

electronic products and technology -

electronic products and technology

WIRELESS & RFID

WIR

W

WI

IR

ELESS

RELE

I & RF

SEPTEMBER 2012

D

ID

SS

F & R

ELESS

F & R

ID AN EP&T SPECIAL REPORT PAGE 8

SWITCHES & CIRCUIT PROTECTION Page 14 OMRON

CONNECTORS Page 20 TECH TREK

EMBEDDED SYSTEMS & ENGINEERING COMPUTERS Page 28

FREE

SHIPPING

TEKTRONIX

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40069240 Canada Post: Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Business Information Group, 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9 circulation@ept.ca

ON ORDERS OVER $200!

DIGIKEY.CA 020312_FRSH_EP&T_CA_Snipe.indd 1

2/3/12 1:51 PM

EPT_0912_Layout 1 8/7/12 3:44 PM Page 1

Data Loggers and Data Acquisition Systems Enregistreurs de Données et Systémes d’Acquisition de Données

High Performance Multi-Function I/O USB Data Acquisition Modules Modules USB d’acquisition de données haute performance pour E/S multifonction OMB-DAQ-2416 Series/Série Starts at À partir de $1100

Visit/Visitez omega.ca/omb-daq-2416

Thermocouple Data Logger with LCD Display and USB Interface Enregistreur à thermocouple avec ACL et interface USB

High Speed Industrial Fiber Optic Infrared Transmitter Transmetteurs industriel haute vitesse à infrarouge sur fibres optiques OS4000 Series/Série Starts at $1495

Portable Data Logger Enregistreur de données portatif OM-SQ2010 Series/Série Starts at À partir de $ 1540

OM-EL-USB-TC-LCD $100

Visit omega.ca/os4000_series omega.ca/video

Temperature and Humidity Virtual Chart Recorder Enregistreur graphique virtuel de température et d’humidité

Visit/Visitez omega.ca/om-el-usb-tc-lcd

Portable Data Loggers with Display Part of the NOMAD ® Family Enregistreurs de données portatifs avec écran Membres de la famille NOMAD MC OM-70 Series/Série Starts at À partir de $129

iTHX-SD $395

Visit/Visitez omega.ca/om-70_series

Visit/Visitez omega.ca/ithx-sd MD ®

omega.ca ®

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-1

Visit/Visitez omega.ca/om-sq2010

976 Bergar Laval, Québec Canada H7L 5A1

MD

© COPYRIGHT 2012 OMEGA ENGINEERING, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © COPYRIGHT 2012 OMEGA ENGINEERING, INC. TOUS DROITS RESERVES

00

e d i t o r i a l electronic products andtechnology technology electronic products and Volume 34 Number 6

September 2012

Stephen Law Editor 416.510.5208 slaw@ept.ca

Sohail Kamal

West Coast Correspondent

Joanna Malivoire

Peter Loney

Account Manager Direct: 866.868.7089 jmalivoire@ept.ca

Publisher 416.510.5207 pdloney@ept.ca

National Instruments unveils paradigm shift in test world With its eyes squarely on redefining test and measurement as we know it, National Instruments set out to deliver its paradigm shift in electronics test while hosting its NI Week in Austin Texas last month.

To commence the annual conference on graphical system design, NI unveiled a new instrument on the PXI platform called a Vector Signal Transceiver or VST (NI PXIe-5644R). This RF instrument combines a vector signal generator, vector signal analyzer and digital I/O with a user-programmable FPGA for real-time signal processing and control. The entire instrument fits into three slots of a PXIe chassis. It increases the speed of test while lowering power and cost. NI didn’t stop there in its design compatibility, as the VST’s software is built on the LabVIEW FPGA and NI RIO reconfigurable I/O architecture. The firmware in the device is actually written in the FPGA and it is written completely in Labview.

Achieving the largest attendance on record with more than 3,400 attendees, NI Week 2012 also drew a record number of exhibitors at the trade show portion of the event. A lot of the excitement was centered around the launch of this product, while showcasing some intriguing applications of its platform.

“Most importantly it’s a new class of instrument that we are calling a software designed instrument, because it can be completely reprogrammed in Labview, all the way down to the

firmware,” according to Eric Starkloff, vice-president, product marketing system platforms. “We believe it is the beginning of a new era.”

NI showcased examples of users that are already using the VST, including wireless technology provider Qualcomm Atheros, which has been able to demonstrate a performance improvement of more than 200x their previous ‘rack and stack’ test instruments.

The VST clearly represents the convergence of multiple test devices and alters the competitive landscape in traditional test and measurement. Its emergence was necessitated by the proliferation of low-cost wireless designs, coupled by the high costs associated with traditional test requirements.

For National Instruments, its ‘game changing’ VST could potentially represent more than just a paradigm shift for test. The rest of the test sector will most likely view this announcement as disruptive to their traditional progression mapping. *NOTE: To watch EP&T’s video coverage of NI Week 2012, go to the ept.ca website and view under the ‘Multimedia’ header.

Tracy Lelyk

Art Director Group Administrator 416.510.5120 tlelyk@ept.ca

Tracey Hanson

Production Manager 416.510.6762 thanson@bizinfogroup.ca

Melinda Marasigan

Subscription Inquiries 416.442.5600 ext 3548 mmarasigan@bizinfogroup.ca

Phyllis Wright

Print Production Manager

Bruce Creighton President

Alex Papanou Vice President

Tim Dimopoulos

Executive Publisher

EP&T (Electronic Products & Technology) is published nine times per year: Monthly in February, May, August, September, October, Bi-Monthly January/February, March/April, June/July, November/December by:

BIG Magazines LP, a div of Glacier BIG Holdings Company Ltd. 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto ON M3B 2S9 info@ept.ca Website: www.ept.ca Tel: 416.442.5600 Fax: 416.510.5133 Sales: 416.510.5207 • Editorial 416.510.5208

ISSN 0708-4366 (Print) • ISSN 1923-3701 (Online) Subscription Rates: Canada: $53.95 per year, US: $79.95 per year, International: $129.95 per year, Single copy: $15 (Canada); $20 (all others)

Editorial Purpose: Electronic Products & Technology provides timely, comprehensive coverage of the latest worldwide developments and trends in electronic products, equipment and systems, and interprets their significance to manufacturers and end-users in the Canadian marketplace.

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40069240 Canada Post: Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: EP&T Circulation Dept., 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9, Subscription Inquiries: 416.442.5600 x3548 • circulation@ept.ca EP&T (Electronic Products & Technology) assumes no responsibility for the validity of claims in items reported. © 2012 This publication or any part of it may not be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form whatsoever without the express written consent of the publisher. From time to time we make our subscription list available to companies and organizations whose products and services we believe may be of interest to you. If you do not want your name to be made available, please contact EP&T with your subscription number.

Printed in Canada

SCAN HERE

for EP&T’s Digital Edition

CONEC Corporation 125 Sun Pac Blvd.

Brampton Ontario • Canada L6S 5Z6 Tel. +1 905 790 2200 • Fax +1 905 790 2201 E-Mail: info@conec.com • www.conec.com http://ept.hotims.com/40523-2

Stephen Law, Editor slaw@ept.ca Follow me on Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/EPTmagazine

003

400

representatives and distributors

NEWSWATCH N E W S WATCH NEWSWATCH electronic products and technology • september 2012

Artaflex to acquire EMS provider MTI International

electronica tradeshow to add pcb network forum Themes on future energy solutions

Organizers of Electronica trade show will incorporate a networking forum for members of the printed circuit board (pcb) industry that attend the world’s largest trade fair for electronic components, systems and applications in Munich this Fall.

In close cooperation with the ZVEI (Electrical and Electronics Manufacturers’ Association), the PCB Marketplace communications platform is being initiated at electronica for the first time. The international trade fair for electronic components, systems and applications takes place in Germany from November 13 – 16.

The PCB Marketplace features an extremely diverse lecture program at the forum and networking opportunities and it invites visitors to participate in an intense exchange of information on the topic of pcbs, other circuit carriers and EMS. Smart energy solutions will also be one of the main themes at electronica, as leading manufacturers from around the world will present their solutions and products in the sectors for energy efficiency, energy storage, LEDs and smart grids. Above all, the future of power grids is expected to be the center of attention.

Against the backdrop of the global transition to alternative energy sources and the expansion of power grids, the show floor will present technical solutions for the intelligent supply of power in the future. Leading international executives will also discuss this topic at the CEO Roundtable, the motto of which is “Semiconductor Solutions for Smart Grid Challenges”.

Harting re-launches website Responding to the needs and expectations of visitors to the site, Harting Inc. of North America, Elgin IL, has re-launched its website.

The German-based business redesigned its website with new features and an enhanced bold design, based on a global survey of its users. The overall design has been completely overhauled with sharpened clarity of structure, streamlined ergonomics and enhanced user friendliness. In particular, the eBusiness section and the concisely laid out ‘Product Center’ allow users to easily locate information with just a few clicks.

Bittele moves its headquarters Approaching its 10th anniversary as a reliable low volume electronic contract manufacturer (ECM) and turnkey pcb manufacturer and assembler, Bittele Electronics Inc. has moved to a larger location within the Toronto area The new headquarters will continue to provide printed circuit board (pcb) design and layout services, while remaining focused on diverting larger production runs to its plants in Shenzhen China, according to Bittele spokesperson Ben Yang. Bittele’s pcb layout services for various engineering groups, provides a focus on design for fabrication and design for test, Yang says.

The firm is now located at 250 Consumers Road, Suite 202 in North York ON.

Sensor Solutions

Artaflex Inc., Toronto, EMS specialists at delivering integrated product solutions, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire MTI International Inc., (MTI) Milwaukee WI. Founded in 1975, MTI operates in the EMS industry and specializes as a full service provider of high value, complex, low to medium volume assemblies including printed circuit boards, final box build and system integration and to a lesser extent thick film hybrid circuits manufacturing. MTI focuses on delivering these services to four under penetrated markets: defense / aerospace, industrial, medical and automotive, which are characterized by having high barriers to entry.

“We are extremely pleased to begin our expansion into the US with the acquisition of MTI. Their focus on manufacturing high mix, high reliability products in segments such as defence, aerospace and medical, as well as being centrally located in Milwaukee were key factors in our decision making process” says Paul Walker, CEO of Artaflex.

Codan acquires Daniels Electronics Radio Communications equipment maker Codan Ltd., Newton, South Australia, has acquired Victoria BC-based Daniels Electronics Ltd., a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of land mobile radio communications (LMR) solutions in North America.

The acquisition of Daniels delivers on Codan’s stated strategy of growing market share and diversifying its radio communications product offering. Codan designs, manufactures and markets a diversified range of high value-added electronic products, with three key business divisions; radio communications, metal detection and mining technology.

Daniels provides a broad range of land mobile radio communications used by specialized market segments, such as public safety, which require high performance and high reliability private communications networks.

J-Squared to distribute Nader Circuit Breakers in Canada J-Squared Technologies Inc. has been appointed master distributor for Nader Circuit Breakers, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of branch and supplementary circuit breakers.

With offices in Montreal, Toronto, and Calgary, J-Squared is stocking a wide range of Nader products in its Ottawa warehouse, including a large assortment of DIN Rail mount product.

To further increase our value proposition J-Squared provides a high level of application support, assembly and design services, according to John Hewetson, newly appointed marketing manager, power solutions at J-Squared.

“Nader has a strong international presence and a great track record with the major telecom players,” says Hewetson. “They manufacture a very high quality product and now have the necessary approvals and product variations to bring a new level of competition to the CBE & MCB market.”

With more than 25 years of marketing experience with low voltage power products, Hewetson is responsible for working with local representatives to sign products lines that bring value to the firm’s customer base and to support the sales force with the necessary tools, training and information it needs to be successful.

NI unveils RF vector signal transceiver, aims to redefine instrumentation National Instruments used its annual NI Week conference in Austin TX, this August as the stage to unveil what it’s calling the world’s first RF vector signal transceiver (VST), a softwaredesigned instrument that combines a vector signal generator and vector signal analyzer with a user-programmable FPGA into a single PXI modular instrument The NI PXIe-5644R VST brings with it a new class of software-designed instrumentation.

This software-centric architecture represents a new era in which engineers and scientists can use LabVIEW to tailor open, field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based hardware for their specific needs.

By using the device, engineers can transform the vector signal transceiver into a new instrument or enhance its existing functionality using NI LabVIEW system design software. The product is suitable for testing the latest wireless and cellular standards such as 802.11ac and LTE.

Thermistors

High precision, NTC-type, available with a wide range of packaging and termination options.

Axial, Radial, SMD, Thin Film

Temperature Sensors

Thermistors packaged for a wide range of measurement applications.

Configurations include: Studs, Tubes, Rings, Clips and Pipes with various leads and terminations.

High-output remote temperature sensing with two precision thermistors and IR elements packaged in metal housings with leads and connectors.

Medical Thermistors

Thermopiles

Non-Contact IR Detectors

TO-18 packages include thermistors and infrared sensors utilizing Semitec’s own silicon micromachining technology.

Ultra-small probe for catheters; Thin-film for digital thermometers; Infrared thermopile for eardrum sensing.

Connectors & Cables Mechanical Hardware Optoelectronics Power Products Printers & Labelling Protection, Suppression & Shielding Switches & Relays Thermal Management Wire Management

AUTHORIZED

DISTRIBUTOR

irwin-ind.com 800.263.3562 Aurora, ON

Mouser launches harsh environments tech site Electronic components distributor Mouser Electronics Inc., has launched its new technology site that focuses specifically on harsh environments.

The new site, http://www.mouser.com/harsh-environment-technology contains technical information that aids design engineers’ thought process in developing and designing new solutions that meet the most stringent, rigorous operating conditions. While electronic components are primarily designed for stable, controlled environments, the real world often dictates extreme conditions, says Kevin Hess, Mouser vice-president of technical marketing.

For example, dust, water, and even corrosive atmospheres occasionally factor into the design and present other challenges that push components to the ‘Nth’ degree.

Mouser also recently reached a worldwide distribution agreement with Intersil Corp., manufacturer of high-performance analog, mixed signal and power management semiconductors. Mouser will carry Intersil’s amplifiers, power modules, analog multiplexers, FET drivers, PWM controllers, interface ICs, switches and video ICs.

Tradeport earns ISO 9001:2008 certification Tradeport Electronics Group, Concord ON, has been registered ISO 9001:2008 Certified, as recently announced by SAI Global.

Tradeport Electronics successfully implemented a quality management system scope in accordance with: ISO 9001:2008, of which governs, “Distribution of precision electronic instrumentation, devices and systems, as well as its calibration and repair service centre.”

“We’re delighted about this certification,” says Tradeport president Barry Conway. “We take great pride in providing quality service and products that we provide.”

The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is the world’s largest developer and publisher of International Standards.

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-3

full online product listings at.ept.hotims.com

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-4

062212_CATLESS_EP&T_CA.indd 1

6/14/12 3:38 PM

products on review

6

electronic products and technology • september 2012

Clamp meters deliver noise-free results Fluke 320 Series Truerms Clamp Meters produce noise-free, reliable measurements in the toughest environments.

Designed to be longlasting and easy to use, the Fluke 323, 324 and 325 clamp meters are suitable for rugged, allpurpose use. Model 320 provides slim, ergonomic design for comfortable all-day use, with large, easy-to-read display. Models 324 and 325 provide a backlighted display for easy viewing in any setting.

FLUKE http://ept.hotims.com/40523-41

Medically-approved open-frame switchers deliver up to 240W Globtek GTM91110P240 Family of openframe ac-dc switchmode power supplies provide up to 240W in a 3 x 5-inch footprint. Devices are provided in factory-configured outputs from 12 to 55 V (in 0.1-V increments). Available in Class I or II versions, the 1.75high power supplies are 85% efficient at full load and include active PFC, a built-in EMI filter and a 12-V fan output as well as dc-input versions from 130Vdc to 380Vdc. ANDY BAUMAN ASSOCIATES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-42

High frequency transistor is low noise Renesas NESG7030M04 SiGe:C high frequency low noise transistor combines low noise figure, high gain, low power consumption with ESD protection for Wi-Fi and short range communication applications. Device delivers low noise figure and high gain with low power consumption from UHF to 6GHz. Typical specifications at 5.8GHz include Noise Figure of 0.75dB and associated gain of 14 dB, while requiring bias voltage and current of only 2V and 5mA. CEL http://ept.hotims.com/40523-43

Arbitrary function generator performs at 20MHz bandwidth, 250 MS/s sample rate AFG2021 arbitrary/function generator is compact, easy-to-use and provides performance signal generation capabilities with entry level pricing. Unit provides performance features including 20MHz bandwidth, 14-bit resolution, 250MS/s sample rate performance and an intuitive user interface. Included is firm’s ArbExpress software that lets users quickly create and import waveforms into the unit to meet custom stimulus requirements.

TEKTRONIX

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-45

Digitally-controlled medical power supplies meet UL60601-1 3rd Edition CFE400M series digitally-controlled, 300 to 400 watt single output, medical power supplies are available in convection and fan cooled versions. Combining a 4kVac reinforced inputto-output isolation with dual fusing and an output-to-ground isolation of 1500Vac, units meet IEC/EN/UL/CSA 60601-1 Editions 2 & 3 safety approvals. Products are rated at 300W for operating temperatures from 0C to +40C (250W to +50C). When fan cooled with either an integral quiet fan or customer forced air (1.5 m/s), the power supply is rated at 400W from 0C to +50C. Units also have a 450W peak power rating for up to 10 seconds for both cooling options.

TDK-LAMBDA http://ept.hotims.com/40523-46

Buck regulator boosts power density, flexibility Picor PI33XX Cool-Power ZVS buck regulator series provides maximum power density and flexibility for high efficiency point of load dc-dc regulation. The integration of a high performance Zero-Voltage Switching (ZVS) topology within the product series increases point of load performance, providing best in class power efficiency up to 98% peak.

Products are highly integrated with control circuitry, power semiconductors and support components in a high density 10mmx14mmx2.56mm LGA System in Package (SiP).

VICOR

BC’s Excell Battery powers tomorrow’s technologies

By Sohail Kamal, West Coast Report, EP&T Magazine

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-44

Durable display for cold, humid climates

• Operates clearly in as low as -40°C • Quick display speed prevents appearance of lag • Vacuum sealed VFD helps with higher humidities • Bright, high contrast display allows visibility from afar

Q: How about your recent growth? What has prompted your recent success?

Excell offers technical support services to its customers that involve complex regulatory, engineering and design support for new and existing projects, requiring expertise in different areas. “The key has been to hire the best people you can,” says Larsen, “We have done just that in engineering, sales and management. The quality of the people you hire makes up the quality of the company.”

Many times, these custom solutions require regulatory approvals, with new rules arriving almost on a monthly basis.

A brand you can count on • Long-time product supply • Over 40 years industrial standard • Great engineering support

See our VFD in action in -16°C:

www.itron.tv/youtube-lowtemp Display for Best Readability Easy to read vibrant emissive display Ideal for low ambient environment High contrast with color filter Large variety of font sizes Wide viewing angle

Follow us:

@vfdtestreport

@Noritake VFD @noritakevfd

Noritake Co., Inc. 2635 Clearbrook Drive Arlington Heights, IL 60005

(847) 439-9020

www.noritake-elec.com http://ept.hotims.com/40523-5

Vancouver-based Excell Battery Company has taken some significant steps since its formation in 1985, emerging from its single manufacturing headquarters to four more locations across North America. The firm specializes in providing OEMs with a broad and diverse range of battery technologies, which are supported by some of the most West Tech advanced battery manufacturers in the world.

Columnist, Working closely with clients at the design stage, Excell Battery aims Sohail Kamal to speed product development, decrease overall costs and increase capabilities of OEM designs, according to Brian Larsen, VP of sales at Excell Battery.

I recently had the chance to talk to Larsen, who shared some of his insights on what has helped Excell become a Western Canadian electronic success story for more than a quarter century.

“We build specialized battery systems for OEMs,” says Larsen. Excell offers full custom battery design support to help in creating a battery pack that suits an OEM’s product. “Excell works with customers to provide a battery pack with optimal size, capacity, voltage and operating temperature range to meet the many varied application demands.”

Q: I understand that Excell Battery is the largest company in Canada doing what you do. What helped you, as a small BC startup in 1985, reach your stage of success?

“It has been a combination of hard work and luck, and we work hard to focus on our core competencies,” says Larsen, who described the importance of also diversifying enough that they can absorb the dips from recessions. Expanding their production outside of Western Canada has both increased Excell’s sales potential and limited risk through geographic diversification. Larsen explains, “We’ve made specific efforts to get into the oceanographic market, petroleum industry, security market. We have also jumped across the border into Houston, Texas, which allows us to provide US clients our value-add services.” This helped Excell garner clients as US companies often prefer to work with homegrown suppliers.

VFD for tough conditions

• • • • •

west tech report

Q: You mentioned the pitfalls for UN air travel regulations - what pitfalls do you help companies overcome?

“All new lithium designs have a hefty charge and prototypes have to be built to be tested and approved. It has to be sent to an independent lab to be tested, and we have a dedicated staff member who focuses solely on UN shipment regulations,” says Larsen.

Excell has had people in the role of dealing with UN approvals for over five years, which has allowed them to learn and develop strategies to effectively deal with these regulations for both Canada and the US. Furthermore, through Excell’s range of partnerships, customers can have access to training to become certified for shipping and receiving both restricted and non-restricted dangerous goods.

Q: Any advice for future Canadian entrepreneurs?

“Work together, with both your suppliers and clients,” says Larsen. “Over the last 27-years, we have developed a close working relationship with the biggest and best battery companies in the world. We are given constant updates with the latest and greatest battery information so that our clients have the cream of the crop of technology available to produce North America’s best products.”

For Excell, partnering with companies such as Panasonic since 1987 has been key to their success. Panasonic, which recently purchased Sanyo’s battery operations, is the largest battery company in the world. http://ept.hotims.com/40522-4

full online product listings at.ept.hotims.com

mouser.com

Semiconductors and electronic components for design engineers.

Authorized Distributor

It’s to be square.

Advanced semiconductor solutions to fuel your creativity.

Come to Mouser first for what’s next from these industry leaders.

mouser.com

The Newest Products for Your Newest Designs

®

A BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY COMPANY Mouser and Mouser Electronics are registered trademarks of Mouser Electronics, Inc. Other products, logos, and company names mentioned herein, may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Mouser_ItsHip_EP&T_Sep.indd 1

8/15/12 10:17 AM

8

electronic products and technology • september 2012

wireless & RFID Wireless & RFID

Wi-Fi network controller module accesses point, station mode

2.4 GHz grid antenna maintains performance quality

SN8200 Wi-Fi Network Controller Module is a small, low power, selfcontained, certified unit providing simple serial-to-Wi-Fi connectivity to the Internet. Product’s AP/ STA dual mode enables mobile wireless devices like laptops, tablets and smart phones to connect to the target device easily. Unit supports built-in web server under AP mode, which greatly simplifies the target device control.

MURATA WIRELESS SOLUTIONS

HyperLink Wireless brand 2.4GHz grid antennas reduce product cost without sacrificing quality or performance. The EG line of antennas are used in the 2.4GHz ISM band to transmit directional signals, usually for the 802.11b/g/n standards of wireless Ethernet technology.

L-COM

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-47

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-48

Wireless communications test set optimized for non-signaling E6607B EXT wireless communications test set and companion E6617A multiport adapter is optimized for nonsignaling testing, while the EXT/MPA combination increases test throughput and reduces the cost of test. The integrated one-box tester includes a vector signal analyzer, vector signal generator, high-speed sequence analyzer and multiformat hardware.

Unit provides future-ready capabilities such as full cellular-band coverage up to 3.8 GHz (including LTE TDD Band 43) and support for the fast-sequenced test modes implemented in the latest chipsets.

AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-49

Your question: Why full bandwidth up to 1 mV/div?

Our answer: For high signal fidelity and measurement accuracy on fast, low-amplitude signals.

The R&S®RTO oscilloscopes offer high vertical input sensitivity of up to 1 mV/div. They always operate at high measurement accuracy because the full bandwidth of the oscilloscope can be used at even the lowest sensitivity levels. Furthermore, the R&S®RTO oscilloscopes do not use software-based zooming. They show the signal‘s real test points at all sensitivity levels.

RF vector signal transceiver combines vector signal generator, analyzer NI PXIe-5644R RF vector signal transceiver (VST) is a software-designed instrument that combines a vector signal generator and vector signal analyzer with a user-programmable FPGA into a single PXI modular instrument. Users can transform the vector signal transceiver into a new instrument or enhance its existing functionality using NI LabVIEW system design software. Product is suitable for testing the latest wireless and cellular standards such as 802.11ac and LTE. Device provides up to 6.0GHz frequency coverage and 80MHz instantaneous RF bandwidth Product is more than 10 times faster measurements than comparable solutions and can replace multiple traditional instruments at significant savings.

NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS http://ept.hotims.com/40523-50

Signal and spectrum analyzer analyzes IEEE 802.11ac WLAN signals R&S FSW-K91ac option provides an integrated demodulation bandwidth of 160 MHz, enabling the R&S FSW signal and spectrum analyzer to record and demodulate the full bandwidth of a WLAN signal in line with IEEE 802.11ac. The error vector magnitude (EVM) is an important measure of the modulation quality. The IEEE 802.11ac standard requires an EVM of –32 dB for 256QAM modulation. Device provides an EVM of less than –45 dB. ROHDE & SCHWARZ

See for yourself www.scope-of-the-art.com/ad/faq-bw Rohde & Schwarz Canada Inc. Toll free: 1-877-438-2880 Email: info.rsc@rohde-schwarz.com

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-51

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-6

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

SEP12-Logo Ad Gen(EP&T)_EP&T 8/3/12 5:03 PM Page 1

BRANDS YOU TRUST For all your electronic components and electromechanical solutions

Cutler-Hammer

®

WWW.KINGBRIGHTUSA.COM

A subsidiary of TT electronics plc

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-7

1.800.433.5700 © Allied Electronics, Inc 2012. ‘Allied Electronics’ and the Allied Electronics logo are trademarks of Allied Electronics, Inc.

An Electrocomponents Company.

10

wireless & RFID

electronic products and technology • september 2012

The new era of

For more than 30 years, the technology community has witnessed Moore’s law in action

instrumentation

T

he reality that transistor density doubles every 18 months has led to significant advances in the performance of electronic devices. This is evident not only in the latest Intel i7 processors but also in the shrinking of technology such as 64 GB solid-state drives (SSDs), which are now as small as a postage stamp.

These technological advances translate into considerable cost reductions. For example, LCD video screens that previously cost hundreds of dollars are now available in low-cost greeting cards. With devices that are faster, smaller, and lower cost than ever, the industry has seen an explosion of new products that combine the functionality of gadgets like a GPS, digital camera, and phone into a single, integrated tool. Furthermore, these tools are software-defined, so users can download apps to customize each device to their exact needs.

With increased technological innovation comes the challenge of testing each new breakthrough. For example, adding wireless LAN capability to a next-generation product typically introduces 50 new tests that must be performed at the same time as previous-generation product tests. Fortunately, Moore’s law is just as relevant for the next generation of test platforms and modular instrumentation.

Coupled with a software-defined solution,

By Matthew Friedman, senior product manager, National Instruments Corp.

these test systems are more than capable of keeping pace with the new developments in devices under test (DUTs).

From Rack-and-Stack to PXI For decades, engineers have built automated test systems by taking the same traditional box instruments they use on the engineering bench and placing them in a rack, stacked one on top of the other.

The rack is connected over an instrument control interface to a computer, where a software program automates the system.

While these rack-and-stack systems are functional, they do not apply the instruments as they were intended to be used.

Traditional box instruments are designed for the bench, when an engineer or technician wants to manually test or troubleshoot a device. In a rack, the instruments’ screens, knobs, and buttons can often become a waste of space and money.

Furthermore, these instruments are not necessarily designed for the measurement speed or data throughput required in automated uses. On a design bench, 10 seconds for measurement is negligible, but when compounded over the testing of thousands of devices on a production line, it can mean hundreds of thousands of dollars lost.

Over the last few years, the industry reached a tipping point in automated test

See How Your Wireless World...

SN3020 module – smallest, highestperformance ZigBee® PRO mesh networking module on the market, supporting the Smart Energy and Home Automation profiles.

and is now making a large-scale switch to PXI. Optimized for automated test, PXI provides a solution that is faster, smaller, and more cost-effective than rack-andstack options. For example, when Harris RF Communications, a provider of multiband tactical radios for military use, recently experienced a dramatic increase in demand for its Falcon line of highperformance radios, the company required an updated testing methodology that would increase the number of radios being tested at a time. Harris selected NI TestStand software and PXI hardware as the basis for its next-generation test system. Using this solution, Harris was able to significantly increase the number of radios tested and reduce the cost for testing each one by 74 percent.

A recent survey of test managers from around the world confirms the tipping point. In the survey, more than 70% of test managers indicated they will use PXI as the core of at least one of their next automated test systems. This is in contrast to only 30% of test managers who will continue to use rack-and-stack instrumentation as the core architecture in their automated test systems.

Traditional box instrument vendors are also making a large investment in PXI. For example, Agilent Technologies announced its commitment to the PXI platform in September 2010 while launching more

The new NI PXIe-5644R Vector Signal Transceiver combines a vector signal analyzer, vectors signal generator, high speed digital I/O and a user programmable FPGA in one 3-slot PXI module.

than 40 PXI modules. Agilent joins more than 60 vendors in the PXI Systems Alliance, an industry consortium that promotes and maintains the PXI Standard, who are making investments in the open, multivendor standard.

Moore’s Law takes PXI into the future Using commercial off-the-shelf technology, PXI benefits immensely from Moore’s law. With transistors 2,000 times smaller than those created 20 years ago, vendors provide high-performance RF instrumentation in a compact 3U package that is

HIGH PoweR

Semiconductor Solutions

Type VK module delivers the latest in 802.11 b/g Wi-Fi® capability based on Texas Instruments CC3000 IC.

Murata is a world leader in the design and manufacture of wireless modules and products, for any application requiring the latest wireless standards, including Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® Low Energy, GPS, and ZigBee®.

Type UH and UW modules offer dual radio functions. Type UH delivers the latest in 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi® capability while type UW delivers 802.11 a/b/g/n.

NEW: Wi-Fi® Network Controller Module The SN8200 is a small, low power, self-contained, certified Wi-Fi® network controller module that provides simple serial-to-Wi-Fi® connectivity to the internet.  2.4GHz IEEE 802.11b/g/n radio technology  Embedded Wi-Fi® driver, security supplicant and network stack  Includes Broadcom 43362 and ST Microelectronics STM32 MCU  30.5 mm x 19.4 mm x 2.9 mm  On-board antenna  FCC/IC certified; CE compliant

Type TN module provides IEEE802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth v4.0 wireless connectivity.

Streamline your supply chain with Solid State Manufacturing Solid State Manufacturing offers a wide range of high quality components – competitively priced and delivered when you need them. They include a comprehensive product profile of high power semiconductors in a wide variety of conventional leaded devices and modules.

Solid State products are manufactured in world-class facilities to ensure the highest quality.

For more information go to: www.murata-ws.com

SCR’s Triacs Power Zeners IGBT’s

Distributed by: Solid State Inc. • Newark electronics • Farnell

Murata Americas http://ept.hotims.com/40523-8

Power Transistors Power Rectifiers Bridge Rectifiers Unijunctions

Schottky Rectifiers TVS Diodes Power Modules RF Transistors

(973) 771-3445 • SolidStateInc-mfg.com

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-9

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

wireless & RFID

electronic products and technology • september 2012

10 times smaller than a comparable box instrument. This translates to less rack space as well as a reduction in weight and power usage. When Analog Devices switched from traditional automated test equipment (ATE) to PXI to test its MEMS Testing complex systems like WLAN on a chip requires new microphones, the comlevels of test software abstraction and capabilities. pany reduced the weight of its test system by 66 times and power usage by 16 times. The signal processing, custom protocol comshipping container for the previous ATE munication, and more. system alone cost as much as the entire As Moore’s law dictates, newly develnew PXI test system. oped devices are fastThe effect of Moore’s law is also evier, smaller, and lower dent in the processing capability of PXI. cost than ever before.

To keep up with their With a modular controller architecture, DUTs, test engineers engineers can add extra processing capamust switch to PXIbilities by simply swapping the controlbased test systems. ler while keeping the same chassis and instrumentation. To improve performance, For more information on LabVIEW they can easily switch a system built in graphical system design software from National Instruments, go to 2001 operating at 2.5 GFLOPS with a http://ept.hotims.com/40523-52 controller running the latest Intel core i7 processor at over 35 GFLOPS. Advanced processing power is important in computationally intense applications like RF signal processing and analysis. For example, TriQuint Semiconductor saw a 6 to 14 times reduction in GSM, EDGE, and WCDMA test times during the characterization of its power amplifiers by switching to a PXI-based system from traditional bench instruments. Using PXI modular instruments, the company reduced characterization of new parts from two weeks to about a day.

Moore’s Law can also be seen with the recent release of the NI PXIe-5644R, the world’s first vector signal transceiver. Combining a vector signal analyzer, vector signal generator, and high speed digital I/O in one 3-slot PXI module, it is a fraction of the size and cost of traditional solutions. Even in such a small form factor, the vector signal transceiver maintains industry-leading measurement performance. For example, it can test standards such as 802.11ac with an error vector magnitude (EVM) floor of up to -46 dB (0.5%) at 5.8 GHz, while also being orders of magnitude faster than traditional solutions. Even more impressive, is that it provides an open, user-programmable FPGA at its core, allowing users to modify its software and firmware that is based on 1 LabVIEW to create an instrument specifically suited to their application needs.

Terepac engages with Rockwell Automation to deliver micro circuits, support Waterloo-based Terepac Corp., a pioneer in tiny digital electronics has engaged with Rockwell Automation to produce large volumes of its micro circuits for the ‘Internet of Things’ – representing identifiable objects and their virtual representations in an Internetlike structure that requires radio frequency identification (RFID) as a prerequisite.

Based on the agreement, Rockwell Automation will support the infrastructure that Terepac uses for its proprietary process, enabling it to miniaturize significantly more circuits than its current capability.

Speedy signal analyzer adds flexibility to diverse applications Agilent EXA signal analyzer is a fast, flexible way to cover diverse needs with a single tool. Unit provides a solid mix of speed and performance and provides the versatility of X-Series measurement applications. Product provides 25MHz (standard) analysis bandwidth and an optional 40MHz analysis bandwidth (up to 26.5GHz models). Unit can extend frequency to 325 GHz and beyond with external mixing.

GAP WIRELESS http://ept.hotims.com/40523-53

The World’s First Mixed Domain Oscilloscope

An evolution in hardware but the revolution is in software While PXI provides a faster, smaller, and more cost-effective option, its real power lies in offering a truly software-designed solution. Unlike traditional box instruments with fixed, vendor-defined functionality, PXI test systems are defined by the software that is written for them. Just like engineers can download apps to customize their smartphones, they can now customize test systems for their exact DUTs. PXI system software continues to evolve as DUT complexity increases. When engineers test a device like a WLAN system on a chip (SOC), they no longer perform simple stimulus and response tests to verify components. Instead, the test systems often need to communicate over real-time digital protocols such as I2C, PCI Express, and SPI to exercise the device and synchronize the RF measurement on the back end. This level of complexity requires new levels of software abstraction to model, control, and test these systems.

Fortunately, tools such as NI LabVIEW graphical system design software make this possible. The same graphical programming environment used to control box instruments for 26 years provides test engineers the ability to model complex systems of stimuli and responses, including intricate timing and synchronization.

Furthermore, engineers can download this same code directly to user-accessible FPGAs on PXI instrumentation for inline

MDO4000 Mixed Domain Oscilloscope Time Domain

4 analog channels ° 500 MHz and 1 GHz bandwidth models

■

16 digital channels

■

1 RF channel ° 50 kHz–3 GHz and 50 kHz–6 GHz frequency range models ° Ultra-wide capture bandwidth up to 3 GHz ° Unique RF analysis tools: automated markers, spectrogram display, RF vs. time traces, advanced RF triggers

■

Parallel bus triggering and analysis, included standard

■

Serial bus triggering and analysis options

■

Built on the award-winning MSO4000B mixed signal oscilloscope platform

2

Introducing the MDO4000 Series from Tektronix, the revolutionary oscilloscope with a built-in spectrum analyzer.

It's more than just a new scope—it will transform the way you test. Capture time-correlated analog, digital and RF signals for a complete system view of your device. See both time and frequency domains in one glance. View the RF spectrum at any point in time to see how it changes. Quickly and efficiently solve the most complicated design issues—with an oscilloscope as integrated as your designs. Two domains. One remarkable scope. Only from Tektronix.

Take a look at how we’ve transformed testing: See the scope in action, analyze the specs and learn more at www.tektronix.com/MDOscope. © 2012 Tektronix. All rights reserved. Tektronix products are covered by U.S. and foreign patents, issued and pending.

TEKTRONIX and the Tektronix logo are registered trademarks of Tektronix. 07/12 EA/ 48W-26880-1

1-800-56-SONIC

1-800-267-7578

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-10

w w w. e p t . c a

Frequency Domain

■

11

12

products on review

electronic products and technology • september 2012

Logic analyzers boost performance, 6x timing resolution

Regulated ac to dc adapter delivers steady, regulated voltage

TLA6400 Series of portable logic analyzers combine high performance and affordability suitable for a wide range of embedded system debug and validation applications.

Products are available in 34, 68, 102, and 136 channel configurations and come with 25 GS/s high-speed timing resolution, up to 667MHz state timing, up to 64Mb record length, along with firm’s iCapture functionality.

Higher signal speeds as well as shorter setup and hold times in digital systems have increased the timing resolution needed to characterize and debug timing issues. With 25 GS/s MagniVu (40 ps) high-resolution timing, unit provides 6 times the timing resolution of competitive products. Units capture buses with clock rates up to 667MHz and data rates up to 1333Mb/s.

TEKTRONIX

Line of regulated ac to dc switching power supplies provide a steady, regulated voltage in any situation as opposed to non-regulated ac to dc adapters, which have a tendency to vary widely in voltage.

Available in 5V, 6V, 9V, 12V, 18V and 24V outputs and a wide variety of wattages from 3W to 36W with output currents from 500mA to 1.5A. Wall mount devices provide 100 - 240Vac, 50/60Hz input. Three industry standard tip types are available: 2.1mm female, 2.5mm female, & 3.5mm male.

NTE

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-54

Fine magnet wire stripper strips film type insulations Model RT2S fine magnet wire stripper strips film type insulations including Formvar, ML, enamel, varnish, isonel, and more from 28AWG to 48AWG. Device’s conical wheels rotate at high speed to generate frictional heat which softens the insulation on the wire. Machine provides a strip length stop that allows for consistent strip lengths, a dust take off port for environmental safety and close-up, multiple wire stripping capability. Unit also cleans and polishes leads of small electronic components and removes oxidation and other contaminants from leads as small as 0.0012” diameter.

ERASER

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-58

Air, liquid-tight self-sealing washers fit metric threads SEELOC self-sealing, high-pressure washer line includes the range of metric sizes from M3 to M6. Device O.D. is 12.7mm to 25.4mm and maximum thruhole sizes are 6.35mm to15.87mm.

Product’s platform is built with 300 series stainless steel, including a profiled and ribbed silicone rubber section molded onto one side (facing down) creating a high-pressure seal to 100psi.

Devices are rated to IP66/68 for Type 4X & Type 6 enclosure protection and are resistant to salt water, acids, weather, sunlight, ozone and a myriad of harsh, hostile conditions.

APM HEXSEAL http://ept.hotims.com/40523-59

Multilayer ceramic caps contain metal terminal KCM and KRM series of multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) contain metal terminal.

KCM line is automotive grade, meeting AEC-Q200 requirements, while the KRM series is designed for commercial use. Both provide high capacitance values (4.7uF to 47uF) plus a unique terminal design providing high reliability for thermal and mechanical stress while reducing acoustic noise. This makes each ideal for use in dc-dc converter noise suppression circuits in automotive and commercial environments.

MURATA AMERICAS

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-55

Burst detect mode boosts accuracy in locating narrow signals MS272xC Spectrum Master handheld spectrum analyzer simplifies process of locating narrow signals that may cause interference and adversely affect the performance of wireless networks.

The Burst Detect mode extends performance, including 32GHz and 43GHz models. As many as 20,000 measurements per second – thousands of times faster than a normal FFT – can be made with the new Burst Detect method.

ANRITSU http://ept.hotims.com/40523-56

Rack-mount power system equipped with hot-pluggable 1.5kW modules PFC 4K5-3U19 Series modular, rack-mount ac-dc power supply system with PFC input delivers 4.5kW or 3kW with N+1 redundancy.

Product is built with three, heavy-duty 1.5W (PFC 1K5) power supply modules assembled on a 3U x 19” rack-mount cradle. The cradle is constructed with high-grade stainless steel and mechanical features that allow for easy insertion of the 5” x 5” x 12” PFC 1K5 units. The modules are hot-pluggable and can be inserted or removed without powering the system down.

ABSOPULSE ELECTRONICS

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-60

Process heat tools improve functionality Leister LHS series hot air blowers are built for manufacturing applications. Products are robust, reliable and compact, improving functionality while remaining backwards compatible to previous generations.

SYSTEM versions of the tools provides an integrated thermocouple for internal closed-loop control. Hotwind Premium & Hotwind System and the new Vulcan System hot air blowers all use firm’s low maintenance, brushless blower motor technology and have overheat protection to ensure a long service life. Air flow and temperature can be independently adjusted; the tools are designed for continuous operation, can be mounted in any orientation, and are easily integrated into machinery.

STANMECH TECHNOLOGIES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-61

Nema type 6 enclosure protects electronic equipment

N6 heavy-duty NEMA Type 6 enclosure is constructed to protect electronic equipment in military shipboard applications and other situations where sensitive equipment must be protected from hostile environments. Product goes beyond the performance ratings for NEMA Type 6 enclosures, and handles the most strenuous shock and vibration conditions. Built for either indoor or outdoor use, the N6 can be built to match custom-sizing requirements.

Connect with the intuitive UniStrip 2550!

EQUIPTO

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-57

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-62

The fully programmable UniStrip 2550 is an intuitive wire stripping machine, uniquely designed to process an expanded range of applications. The machine comes standard with V-blades, the optimum solution for stripping most wires without having to change blades, yet, is also able to use radius blades, die blades or flat blades for added versatility. Best of all, the menu guided, touchscreen interface makes the UniStrip 2550 the most user-friendly machine of its type!

on line

Schleuniger, Inc. Manchester, NH | USA www.schleuniger-na.com/ept (603) 668-8117

Innovators in Wire Processing

To Be Precise.

Intelligent position sensor ICs delivers 12-bit resolution MLX90365 position sensor IC is based on firm’s proprietary Triaxis technology, providing 12-bit resolution and can be used in either linear or rotary position sensing systems.

Device provides fully programmable transfer functionality, selectable analog and pulse width modulation (PWM) output modes, open/short diagnostics and on-board diagnostics. Product is produced in conventional SOIC and TSSOP surface mount packages, which necessitate passive protection components being put on the pcb.

MELEXIS http://ept.hotims.com/40523-63

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-11

full online product listings at.ept.hotims.com

products on review

electronic products and technology • september 2012

Heatsinks accommodate up to three TO package sizes

Programmable dc power supplies boost efficiency

Ohmite C Series of heatsinks combine thermal performance with a component attachment mechanism that saves time in the event of an upgrade or a simple replacement. Product is available in sizes to fit design requirements.

Available in standard 25, 50, and 75mm lengths for TO-220 and TO-247 devices and 30, 58, and 85mm for TO-264 packages, heatsinks will attach components in groups of 1, 2 or 3 and the convenient camming clips eliminate the need for mounting holes and screws, are resilient, and provide the same amount of force after repeated use.

ORION TECHNOLOGIES

Z+ Series of programmable dc power supplies are highdensity, high efficiency, 2U format, bench-top and rack mountable units that meet the demands of a wide variety of ATE, Laboratory and OEM applications. Products provide 400watts of output power with an output voltage range from 0 to 100Vdc and output currents up to 40A. The Z+400 are 33% smaller and 40% lighter than the previous generation (ZUP series) and similar products, thus providing a 49% increase in power density. Standard models are 3.27” high by 2.76” wide, so up to 6 units can be installed in the optional 19” rack housing and blanking plates are available for unused slots.

TDK-LAMBDA

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-64

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-65

Mid-range RTCCs deliver accurate timekeeping over a wide temperature range

Wire routing split loom comes in orange for safety apps Polyethylene and Nylon lines of wire routing split loom are available in orange to accommodate applications where identification is critical to safety. Product also comes in red, yellow and green. Used to conceal unsightly wires under workstation, product can add a sleek, finished appearance and protect from abrasion, puncture, vibration, and corrosive fluids.

MICRO PLASTICS http://ept.hotims.com/40523-66

SPI MCP795XX family stand-alone, 10-pin Real-Time Clock/ Calendar (RTCC) provide many of the same features as firm’s larger 14-pin MCP795WXX family, including superior timekeeping performance. Devices reduce overall component count in the system and eliminate user programming costs for a serial ID. By including 64 bytes of SRAM, 2 Kbits of EEPROM and a 128-bit Unique ID, which can be ordered blank or preprogrammed with a MAC address, extra memory devices may not be needed MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGY

Fiber laser marker speeds processing power

Laser distance meters measure up to 100-meters

LMF5000 ytterbium (Yb) 50 watt fiber laser marker increases processing power for faster, deeper marks on materials like aluminum, tool steels, copper, brass and graphite. Key applications for the LMF5000 include high speed marking, engraving and deep engraving of metals, thin sheet cutting, and high speed surface texturing. The ultra-compact LMF5000 model maximizes integration flexibility.

MIYACHI UNITEK

414D, 419D and 424D Laser Distance Meters provide accurate, point-and-click measurements up to 100 meters and include an integrated compass, which provides a ‘heading’ for distance measurement. Product has an inclination sensor that assists with height tracking, leveling and indirect horizontal distance measurement when line of sight is blocked.

FLUKE

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-67

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-68

Wall mount cabinet delivers compact storage of 19” equipment Bud Industries Wall Mount Network Cabinet with a narrow profile and a variety of value-added features for EIA 310D-compliant storage of 19” rack-mount equipment. Product saves space for housing network equipment and is available in two sizes: 23” high x 6” deep or 23” high x 12” deep.

Constructed of durable 16 gage steel, unit has a tempered glass front door that enables technicians to observe indicator lights without opening the cabinet. The door can be hinged left or right, depending on the needs of the installation, and it includes a key lock that protects equipment from tampering and ventilation slots that help keep equipment cool.

X-TRONICS http://ept.hotims.com/40523-70

Pcb board support system can be customized ezLOAD XL PCB Support System can be customized for any length and width combination. In most cases, it also is adjustable for multiple applications. The horizontal posts can be unlocked and replaced with longer or shorter ones to accommodate other board sizes.

Product provides an extruded aluminum base and soft, ESD-safe foam fingers. Proudct reduces changeover times and improves product build quality, increases revenues by providing significant cost savings and eliminates component damage during the assembly process.

COUNT ON TOOLS http://ept.hotims.com/40523-71

Thin film exhibits a 1.7 W/mK thermal conductivity Fujipoly Sarcon 30HR silicone-based thin film exhibits a 1.7 W/mK thermal conductivity when placed between a heat source such as a highperformance semiconductor and a nearby heatsink. The conformable thermal interface medium effectively eliminates air gaps that exist between components. The increased surface contact can measurably improve the cooling performance of a heatsink. Product has a thermal resistance of .42 Cin2/W and is recommended for applications with operational temperatures that range from -60C to +180C. J-SQUARED TECHNOLOGIES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-72

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-69

Solder paste extends reflow profiles SN100C-XF3+ lead-free solder paste and wire accommodates extended reflow profiles with or without the use of nitrogen.

With XF3+, wetting on all common pad finishings is provided, yielding shiny joints reminiscent of leaded solders. Additionally, the paste exhibits a robust printing window. Product improves results for eliminating voiding when compared to any SAC-alloy and enhances print performance and stencil life.

COBAR SOLDER http://ept.hotims.com/40523-73

Halogen-free solder paste performs like tin lead NC259 Solder Paste is lead-free, halogen-free and provides the performance of tin-lead and high-silver lead-free solder pastes. A virtual drop-in for SAC305, product is specifically for alloys such as SN100C and SAC0307. Product improves print definition and consistent solder volume transfer, while eliminating defects such as voiding and head-in-pillow, as well as reduce graping on ultra-fine pads.

AIM http://ept.hotims.com/40523-74

‘Green’ power supplies come in single, multiple output versions GRN series of ’green’ component power supplies are available in both single and multiple output versions. The energy efficient units cover the 45, 60, 80, and 110 watt power levels and comply with the energy saving requirements of the ErP (Energy Related Products) Directive. Single output versions provide high efficiency, high power density and low standby power.

Multiple output versions come with up to four outputs.

POWER SOURCES UNLIMITED http://ept.hotims.com/40523-75

Manual, batch cleaners compatible with protective coating Eco-Stencil cleaners, manual, understencil and batch formulas are compatible with DEK Nano-ProTek coating, a topical fluxophobic (repells flux) coating designed to improve solder paste release. Permits adhesive and paste removal without impacting the coating’s useful life and performance.

TECHSPRAY http://ept.hotims.com/40523-76

w w w. e p t . c a

13

14

electronic products and technology • september 2012

Switches & Circuit Protection

Protecting from

lighting ballasts

EOL issues

Heat is frequently the cause of electronics failure. End-of-life (EOL) protection circuitry in fluorescent lighting systems enhances safety by removing power to the lamp and preventing overheating.

Polymeric positive temperature coefficient (PPTC) devices can help protect electronic ballasts used in fluorescent lighting systems from abnormal-state conditions when the lamps are reaching their end of life, or EOL. Electronic ballasts can experience high failure rates, due to the fact that the ballast manufacturer may not have considered all failure mechanisms or provided appropriate protection against the many different abnormal states that can result from EOL issues.

Although lighting manufactures have come to understand the importance of abnormal-state protection by adding a clause to the international IEC 613472-3 standard, many major semiconductor manufacturers provide no, or limited, EOL abnormal-state protection for their devices. In addition, the operation of most ballasts is now achieved through the self-oscillation of a discrete device, the bipolar transistor, which does not provide EOL abnormal-state protection.

Abnormal states of electronic ballasts The abnormal fault conditions affecting electronic ballasts can be caused by a variety of lamp conditions. These abnormal states are specified below in accordance with the IEC 61347-2-3 standard for AC supplied electronic ballasts for fluorescent lamps: 1. the lamp or one of the lamps is not inserted; 2. the lamp does not start because one of the cathodes is broken;

3.

4.

5.

the lamp does not start although the cathode circuits are intact (de-activated lamp); the lamp operates, but one of the cathodes is de-activated or broken (rectifying effect); or a short circuit of the starter switch.

The IEC 61347-2-3 standard stipulates that electronic ballasts should work properly and securely even when the fluorescent tubes are functioning under abnormal or fault conditions. For example, during the start-up phase, if the tube cannot be successfully ignited high current will flow through the resonant circuit and result in high voltage at both terminals of the tube. This high current or high voltage will not only cause damage to the tube’s base, it may also pose a hazard to the operator who is replacing the tube.

The fourth abnormal state mentioned refers to the rectifying effect of fluorescent tubes. A rectifying effect is caused by the frequent inconsistency of the arc current of the lamp in consecutive half-cycles, which is typically a result of damage to the cathode filament or the inability of the emissive material inside the tube to emit electrons.

Making the tube diameter thinner can improve the lamp’s light efficiency to some extent, but this can also cause a local rectifying effect in the late stage of the lamp’s life. The rectifying effect will concentrate the high output energy of the electronic ballast on the small cathode of the lamp, which can result in a very high temperature. The increasing temperature of the lamp holder can lead

By Mark Dong, senior application engineering manager, TE Circuit Protection

• Utilizing a protection circuit that incorporates a silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR, bipolar transistor, or other component in the resonant output circuit; • Employing over-power protection to achieve abnormal-state protection; or • Connecting a resettable PPTC device in the resonant circuit, in series with a resonant capacitor to achieve abnormalstate protection.

In the case of the PPTC solution, when the fluorescent tube is in a normal state and the electronic ballast is powered on, the inductor, capacitor and PPTC thermistor form a series-resonant circuit to make the fluorescent lamp function normally.

At this point, the low resistance of the PPTC device will not affect the resonant circuit. If an abnormal state occurs due to deactivation of the filament caused by an aging filament or tube leakage, the PPTC device will activate within seconds.

The IEC 62347-2-3 standard stipulates that protection, except for rectifying effect, shall be within 5 seconds, and the rectifying effect protection shall be within 30 seconds. This activation causes the resistance of the PPTC device to exponentially increase, which forces the LC series resonant circuit to stop or increases the frequency to reduce the fault current.

This cuts off the high voltage of the resonant network Figure 1. Typical circuit utilizing a PPTC device for protection of IC integrated ballasts. to help protect the ballast, allowing the ballast to begin working again after returning to a normal state.

A protection scheme in a T5 14W Please V is electronic ballast, as shown in Figure 1, it Our We bsite utilizes a PPTC device with integrated To F ICs. The PPTC device is connected in the Repres ind A e LC series resonant circuit, shown as R1.

Or Dist ntative ributor During normal operation, the resistance of Near Yo the PPTC is very low and does not affect u the normal operating resonant state. If an EOL abnormal state should occur, the current flowing through the resonant circuit will increase to approximately 5 to 6 times the normal operating current.

The higher current will then cause the PPTC device to trip and device resistance will increase. As a result, the resonant circuit formed by the PPTC device’s increased resistance will cause the inductor and capacitor to change resonance, and the IC will change the resonant frequency of the ballast.

The increase of the resonant frequency of the ballast will reduce the power of the ballast, thereby reducing the current flowing through the filament and providing the required ballast protection. After the fault has been removed and the power is cycled, the resistance of the PPTC device will return to its original state and the ballast can return to normal operation.

When specifying the resistance of a PPTC device in these applications, the

to thermal deformation of the lamp, causing the glass to melt.

This may lead to a tube falling off the fixture or, even more seriously, can result in a thermal event.

The IEC 61347-2-3 standard specifies three tests to simulate the effect of the lamp’s end of life: the asymmetric pulse test (Clause 17.2); asymmetric power dissipation test (Clause 17.3); and the open filament test (Clause 17.4). Any one of these three tests can be used to prove the eligibility of the electronic ballast.

At the end of the lamp’s life, the standard requires that the ballast shall not make the lamp holder overheat at any voltage between 90% and 110% of the rated supply voltage.

Ballast manufacturers can choose to administer any one of the tests according to the circuit types of the electronic ballast, and testing can be performed using tubes provided by lamp manufacturers.

Currently, the protective measures recommended for electronic ballasts include • Connecting a single-use current fuse to the input of the AC circuit;

SWITCHES & CIRCUIT PROTECTION

Since 1920, Carling Technologies has been a World Leader in the manufacture of Switches and Circuit Breakers. Featuring a broad Product portfolio of standard and custom designs, Carling provides solutions for the simplest to the most rigorous applications while serving a vast array of of market segments including: Transportation, Marine, Renewable Energy, Military, Medical, Datacom and Telecom, among many others.

Please visit our website for complete details.

Tel: 860-793-9281 • 60 Johnson Ave. • Plainville, CT 06062 USA

www.carlingtech.com sales@carlingtech.com

Innovative Designs. Powerful Solutions.

continued on page 18

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-12

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

TAilored.

AvneT SoluTionS MeeT Your unique needS From big to small – we do it all.

Even big products begin small, with millions of sizes in between. We see them all. Here at Avnet, no order is too small. Avnet provides products and services to match your needs. No matter the location; whether you are in the new product introduction phase or extending a product’s life. If you need design support, or supply chain assistance – we’re here to help. With Avnet, you determine the scale of interaction – or complexity – and we will support you every step of the way, so it’s a perfect fit!

What can we do for you? www.avnetexpress.com http://ept.hotims.com/40523-13

Accelerating Your Success!™ 1 800 332 8638 | www.avnetexpress.com |

Avnet_MassMarket EP&T Magazine 11 x 15,75 Zoll #September.indd 1

@avnetdesignwire

01.08.2012 13:08:02

16

switches & circuit protection

electronic products and technology • september 2012

Pcb mount reed relay equipped with next Gen driver

Surge stopper’s diode protects against transient voltages

Standex-Meder Electronics RM05-8A-S 8-pole PCB mount reed relay module is equipped with a new generation of drivers and provides a 24% smaller footprint than the RM05-8A model.

Device has a minimum breakdown voltage of 210Vdc. Power switching up to 10 watts is available and it comes with coil voltage of 5Vdc. Product provides gold-plated leads for improved solderability, with a standardized dual-in-line pin layout (2mm raster). No external activation electronics are required.

ANDY BAUMEN ASSOCIATES

LTC4364 surge stopper provides compact and low-loss protection for 4V to 80V. Device shields downstream electronics from input overvoltages and overcurrent, enabling continuous operation through transient surges.

Overcurrent limiting protects the system and supply from short-circuits at the load. Product’s diode control replaces a Schottky diode in the power path with a low loss N-channel MOSFET. Device’s diode, along with a robust frontend, protects the load from a reversed input down to -40V and maintains the output voltage during an input brownout.

LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-77

Sealed snap action switch comes in many sizes Sealed snap action switches are available in a variety of sizes, switching capacities and options. Miniature, subminiature and ultraminiature devices seal out the elements to provide long-lasting performance. Units conform to IP67 requirments.

Products provide pin plungers with long overtravel (D2HW) or a variety of levers pcb, quick connect or wire terminations. Devices come with screw/panel, molded posts or pcb mounting options.

OMRON http://ept.hotims.com/40523-78

DD

filtered power entry modules packed with functionality

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-79

Miniature overvoltage clamp protects portables AP9060 overvoltage clamp for the protection of power management ICs (PMIC) in portable applications. Provided in the small form factor 1.1mm x 1.4mm x 0.8mm W-DFN11143 package, device supports a wide battery charger output range of 3V to 30V. Device will pass the voltage through to the PMIC only up to a safe clamp voltage limit, factory set at 11V. Device’s feedback loop maintains the clamped output voltage level by backing off the drive to its p-channel MOSFET switch.

DIODES INC. http://ept.hotims.com/40523-80

Heavy-duty fuse clip suits high voltage scenarios CSO fuse clip for 10.3 x 38mm or 10.3 x 85mm fuses provides heavyduty performance and is suitable for applications with voltages up to 1500 Vac/Vdc and currents to 32A. Device’s characteristics meet or exceed the present need for increasing photovoltaic system voltages.

Product is available in solder and screw/rivet versions. The solder type allows direct mounting on a printed circuit board by means of through-hole technology.

SCHURTER http://ept.hotims.com/40523-81

Flush mount switches deliver multiple options Flush mount CW industrial-strength 22mm switches include maintained pushbutton operators, rubber boots and nameplates. Devices provide both momentary and maintained functions and more options to fit their specific applications, while the smooth design of the CW cuts down on surface area, preventing dust and other particles from accumulating and making regular cleaning and maintenance easier. A new rubber boot provides an additional protective cover for CW switches.

Offered with either black or metallic bezels, customers have a choice of illuminated pushbuttons, in six bright colors (amber, green, white, red, blue and yellow).

IDEC http://ept.hotims.com/40523-82

One-trip circuit breaker reduces power consumption Nader NDB5-63 Series circuit breaker for hydraulic magnetic equipment provides overload, short circuit protection. Device can also be used for infrequent close or open.

With a voltage rating of 80Vdc and 230Vac / 400Vac, device meets UL1077, IEC 60934; UL1077 approval, TÜV, CE, CCC standards. Device withstands 10000 actuations and accepts cables up to 25 square mm. Product suits application fields such as computer and peripheral equipment, industrial automatic control system, telecom equipment.

J-SQUARED TECHNOLOGIES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-83

Switch’s curved edges assure compatibility with panels V-Series rocker switches provide a softened version of earlier Contura styles featuring gently curved corners and edges assuring compatibility with most any panel design. Intuitive feel is maximized by the use of 2 embossed circular pads located at opposite ends of the device. Any combination of Bar or Oval style lenses can be located in the pads providing a unique look. Device provides maximum sealing protection with dual seals around lamps and rocker stem certified to IP66 & IP68. Optional panel seals for additional protection.

CARLING TECHNOLOGIES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-84

Smart switch simplifies current load monitoring NK Technologies ASM Series Smart-Switch is self-calibrating and uses the actual load current to set the trip point and provide the simplest way to ensure that a motor is working properly.

The current sensing devices are self-powered and self-calibrating to speed start-up and minimize installation costs. Three models are available to provide status monitoring, overload or underload, or operating window (overload and underload) functionality to suit particular pump, fan, heating element, conveyor or multi-load safety-interlocked application needs. The output contact is ac and dc compatible for use with any automation system.

CD NOVA http://ept.hotims.com/40523-85

www.schurterinc.com/new_pems www.schurterinc.com/emc

DD12 and DD22 integrate a 1- or 2-pole shocksafe fuseholder, switch and standard or medical low leakage filter into one compact pre-wired power entry module.

- DD12 panel mount – quick connect terminals - DD22 PCB mount – pcb solder terminals - Ideal for low profile designs, especially 1RU enclosures - current ratings up to 10A @ 250 VAC - switch inrush current up to 100 A - illuminated switch available - shocksafe fuseholder for 5x20mm fuses - qualified acc. IEC 60950 and IEC 60601-1

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-14

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-15

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

Custom Electronic

ENCLOSURES Built in 2-3 days! - No Minimum Orders Protocase is celebrating 10 years in business!

Over the last 10 years we've had the pleasure of working with small companies and individuals, as well as some of the biggest companies in the world, such as Apple, Boeing, GM, and Microsoft. No matter how big or small the job is, we treat every customer with the same personal, friendly service, and we always do our best to maintain our lightning-fast 2-3 day manufacturing time.

As our community continues to grow, so do we.

Whether it's adding new faces to our growing staff, or building online communities for ongoing support and communication, we strive to provide the best experience possible when you're creating something with us. From a simple one-off prototype, or a run of 100, we want to be with you every step of the way, just as you've been there with us for the past 10 years.

Thank you for an amazing 10 years, here's to the next 10!

Follow us!

We build fully finished enclosures to your design, in your choice of steel, aluminum, stainless or galvanized, including cutouts, powder coats, silkscreens, fasteners, and hardware.

Built in 2-3 days

We offer unhead-of manufacturing speed. This lets you complete your electronics before you finalize your enclosure design. This greatly reduces painful and time consuming work.

No minimum Orders

We’re here to help our customers get their jobs done, so we’ll give your order the same priority and respect whether it’s a single enclosure or a one-off project, or a production run of thousands.

The fastest and easiest way to design, priceand build custom electronics enclosures.

P

P

Also Available

One-stop Shopping

Free Downloadable 3D Enclosure Design Software Fast and Easy Design Instant Price Quotes Buy Your Custom Enclosure Online With 2 - 3 Day Turnaround

www.protocasedesigner.com Protocase allows you to buy custom electronics enclosures with a whole new level of speed and convenience.

P R O TO C A S E

Custom Electronic Enclosures For Engineers & Designers http://ept.hotims.com/40523-16

Our friendly and knowledgeable sales representatives will be happy to assist you in placing your order.

www.protocase.com info@protocase.com 1.866.849.3911

18

switches & circuit protection

electronic products and technology • september 2012

Protecting

High-performance compact fuse rated 500Vac SHT series 6.3x32mm compact fuse provides overcurrent protection up to 500Vac. The high breaking capacity of 1500A at rated voltage safeguards electronic systems and operators in the event of a catastrophic short circuit incident. Product’s compact size, combined with its high ratings and performance, makes it suitable for a much broader range of applications than a typical 6.3x32 mm fuse. Device’s time-lag characteristic is according to UL 248-14.

It is initially available in 10 rated currents ranging from 1 to 8A. SCHURTER

lighting ballasts

continued from page 14

maximum operating temperature and maximum operating current must first be obtained. Next, the appropriate PPTC device can be identified by using the temperature derating curve and, finally, it must be determined that the PPTC device complies with the standard for the shortest time required for protection. Figure 2 illustrates the voltage and current chart of a PPTC device during an abnormal state (blue) and after protection (pink).

A PPTC device can also be used in a power input circuit to help provide abnormal-state protection. The efficiency, power factor and luminous efficacy of electronic ballasts are typically better than those of the electromagnetic ballasts that are widely used in developing countries. Because of these advantages, high-luminous-efficacy tricolor fluorescent lamps using low-power-consumption electronic ballasts are being promoted as

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-88

Hall Effect pushbuttons lengthen lifecycle

Figure 2. Voltage and current of PPTC device during an after abnormal state test.

green, energy-saving lighting products.

This cost-effective solution simplifies the circuit, thus speeding design time. It also offers space-saving advantages in ballast applications with limited printed circuit board (pcb) space, such as bracket lamps.

For more information on Polymeric positive temperature coefficient (PPTC) devices from TE Connectivity, distributed in Canada by Heilind Electronics, go to http://ept.hotims.com/40523-86

5–Way limit switch style sensor is adjustable

IH Hall Effect pushbutton switch provides a 12mm diameter bushing with a low behind-panel depth. Device provides one of a kind Hall Effect sensor technology for a long lifecycle. As part of the IH series, the IHL and IHS both provide a long life contactless switching of 5 million operations and are sealed to IP67. The dome shaped actuator is available in eight colors. IHS Series is ruggedized for harsh environments and is recommended for applications where the switch is often activated.

APEM http://ept.hotims.com/40523-89

Circuit breaker comes with UL489A M-Series hydraulic/magnetic circuit breaker provides a compact, space saving, vertically mounted parallel pole configuration, which is UL489A listed up to 50 amps and is well suited for telecommunication equipment, conveniently fitting in a one rack unit. Additionally, two terminal options are available: a jumper buss connecting each of the pole’s line and load terminals, offering a single connection point for the line terminal, and another for the load terminal. The other option includes push-in-studs – commonly used in the telecommunication industry.

CARLING TECHNOLOGIES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-90

Pepperl+Fuchs 5–Way adjustable limit switch style sensor easily monitors operating and switching state. The active sensing face of these 5–way adjustable sensors can be adjusted for front, top, bottom, left, or right facing targets, maximizing installation and operational flexibility. 4–corner LEDs guarantee 360° visibility, enabling users to easily monitor the sensors’ operating and switching state to help keep machines up and running. Device provides Category IP6869K protection, ensuring robust and reliable operation even under the extreme conditions ALLIED ELECTRONICS

Blade fuses combine into in single tiny body MICRO3 line of blade fuses combines two individual fused circuits in a single sub-miniature body, making it suitable for space-constrained electrical systems. Device is less than 15mm wide and provides the same 5mm terminal spacing and electrical performance as its single-fuse counterpart (MICRO2). Product performs in a wide thermal operating range, from -40C to over 125C, and provides a tighter overload tolerance than industry standards (120 sec max @ 135% Ir).

LITTELFUSE

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-87

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-91

J-Squared Technologies Inc. ASI Terminal Blocks & Power Supplies, Nader Circuit Breakers now available in Canada through J-Squared Technologies

PCB Mount

Panel Mount

DIN rail mount

Weidmuller equivalent

70+ Models

P.C. equivalent

Great Prices • Great Quality • Great Selection • Select from thousands of DIN rail mounted terminal blocks and power supplies • Superior value to equivalent manufacturers such as Phoenix Contact® and Weidmuller® at savings of 20% to 50% • Supplementary (UL1077) and Branch (UL489) circuit breakers • DIN rail and panel mounting circuit breakers • UL, CSA and CCC approvals and certifications Contact J-Squared today to start saving on these “NEW” product lines

Tel: 1.877.956.3574 • Email: power@jsquared.com http://ept.hotims.com/40523-17

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

Complete engineering

9 out of 10 customers recommend Newark element14 Technical Support – Customer feedback studies

SolutionS Start here.

Get direct, one-on-one technical support from real engineers with no go-between and no waiting. Access industry, manufacturer and legislative experts on our community.

And find thousands of technical documents, videos & tools— all in one source. Engineering expertise starts at Newark element14.

how may we help you today? teChniCal Support: 1.877.736.4835 (English) 1.800.463.9275 (français) Community: element14.com webSite: newark.ca learn more: newark.ca/together http://ept.hotims.com/40523-18

Newark_tech support_EPT Canada.indd 1

7/11/12 9:48 AM

20

electronic products and technology • september 2012

Connectors

Component innovations helping spur

circuit board trends

D

By Phill Shaw, senior product manager, electronic connectors, HARTING Inc. of North America

evices and machines are getting inexorably better – fast, smaller, more capable or efficient than their predecessors. That’s thanks in part to trends in printed circuit board (pcb) design like miniaturization and flexibility that are in-turn being facilitated by a steady stream of innovations in what goes on the board.

This interdependence of device maker, pcb manufacturer, chip provider and component supplier has become a virtuous circle supporting continuous improvement. Pcbs no longer have to be flat but can be flexible, angled, multi-layered, stacked or interfaced with extension or secondary pcb cards or flex boards using new, off-the-shelf connector concepts. Designers of the end products have more leeway in how to incorporate power, signal and data.

These connector innovations cater to both form and function.

While some enable higher speed transmission rates and reduced pitch on the board, others are delivering design flexibility and greater robustness needed for outdoor or challenging indoor environments. Still others offer the possibility of extending product life cycles or lowering pcb manufacturing costs.

Consider how mezzanine connectivity is helping pcb makers break free from two dimensional constraints. Mezzanine card architecture offers design flexibility and cost effective upgrading of current systems, critical in modular machine and system design and where allowance is made for future expansion or upgrading. As noted in a 2010 Bishop and Associated report on system expansion: “(The) mezzanine card stacks directly above the host board and is electrically connected — and often mechanically supported — by the mezzanine connector. The mezzanine card becomes an optional extension of the daughtercard. The ability to design a system with enough flexibility to customize the product using standard host daughtercards and plug-in modules is highly desirable. Mezzanine cards can also provide a low-cost strategy to address machine obsolescence or the need to expand capacity.”* Products like HARTING’s har-flex connectors are available in multiple stacking heights to accommodate different combinations of mezzanine and mother to daughtercard applications. har-flex, for example, was developed as a universally compatible board-to-board connector family with straight, angled and cable-mounted versions so designers can

optimize utilization of pcb real estate, whatever Harting’s har-flex the board-to- connector line. board distances or process specifications.

Already, the choice in mezzanine connectivity is wide enough to suit specific applications on the device pcb that call for the latest transfer protocols such as Gigabit Ethernet and PCI Express – and data transfer speeds p to 2.125Gbit.

That gives designers an alternative to the more rigid and unforgiving format of connecting pcbs to one another using a backplane, which is difficult to adapt to unconventional device layouts. From a cost perspective, mezzanine connectors are standard, economical products suitable even for the small production runs typical of industrial devices.

Many innovations in connector technology lack a ‘wow’ quality about them, but address application challenges raised by customers. For example, power electronics applications in such fields as renewable energy, transportation, and factory automation require connectors that have high protection classes.

And manufacturers are looking for solutions that bring more power to pcbs – as much as 60A – in ways simple and costeffective to incorporate and don’t require intermediary parts to join board and power connector. At this year’s Hannover Industry Fair, HARTING unveiled the Han-Fast Lock pcb connector that allows for plug-in rather than soldered The har-flex line comes in many options: Straight, angled and cable IDC connectors. power connections.

An industrial power connector like the Han Q 4/2 with pre-connected litz wires and circuit board contact can be supplied as a pre-tested system and plugged into the board (or unplugged for servicing) for fast solder-free pcb termination that is also automatic crimping process-compatible. The board and connector can be independent of each other.

Press fit termination has been around since the mid-80s but continues to be improved. Thermal stress isn’t applied to the board and the resulting connection is at least as good if not better than a soldered connection. Press in connections are easy to remove and re-insert for servicing which has benefits for the end-user as well as the pcb manufacturer. Press-fit termination is more flexible and service friendly than soldered connections. The Power Supplies & Cords trend in recent years has been to RoHS – Wall Adapters with Interchangeable lead free plating, and now palladium Plug Option nickel with gold flashing is replacing – Desk Top to 200W gold, which creates a harder surface that – Open Frame with PFC is not susceptible to gold price increases.

– DIN Rails to 960W The low margin nature of most pcb – LED Drivers manufacturing places a premium on mini– Medical Approvals mizing process time, waste and breakage while maximizing space utilization on the MEGA Electronics Inc. board. That’s driving many new product 4B Jules Lane developments.

New Brunswick, NJ 08901 • Hybrid or mixed connectors now are tel 732.249.2656 fax 732.249.7442 widely available for DIN Power and Signal, www.megaelectronics.com sales@megaelectroncis.com

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-19

continued on page 26

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-20

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

SEARAY

™

Dense. Fast. Versatile.

Up to 500 I/Os on .050" grid array for maximum routing flexibility.

Rugged Edge Rate™ contacts lower insertion/withdrawal forces.

Stack heights from 7mm to 40mm.

Right angle interconnects for micro backplane and coplanar applications.

LP Array™ for 4mm to 5mm stack height; .8mm pitch design saves board space.

SUDDEN SERVICE http://ept.hotims.com/40523-21

7182 SAM Searay_EPT.indd 1

7/18/12 11:04 AM

22

connectors

electronic products and technology • september 2012

Stainless steel connector suits rugged, sensitive applications

Circuit breaker safely handles high amperage and dc voltage

Han-INOX stainless steel connector series is now available with covers for hoods and bulkhead housings in size 10 B. In addition, a bulkhead housing with integral cover and coupling housing, also for size 10 B, has been introduced. Device is suitable for rugged and highly sensitive applications where a high-grade stainless steel exterior is required. Han-INOX is IP-65 compliant, suitable for industrial applications. Available in Han 10B and Han 3A sizes, device can be combined with most standard contact inserts.

HARTING

CX-Series circuit breaker provides a patent-pending arc quenching configuration that allows the device to safely handle high amperage and high dc voltage applications in a compact package. By using a patent pending magnetic flux boosting terminal configuration a strong magnetic field is created, thus motivating the arc into an enhanced arc chamber improving the breaker’s overall performance and reliability. The permanent magnets located at the entrance of the arc chamber combined with the upper and lower arc runner increase the magnetic blow out force and aid in motivating the arc off of the contacts and into the arc chamber.

CARLING TECHNOLOGIES

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-92

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-95

Mini edge card socket delivers high speed performance

Miniature interconnect withstands harsh environments

Line of High Speed Edge Card Solutions with 2,00mm (.0787”) pitch Mini Edge Card Socket is suitable for high-speed computing and storage applications, as well as other complex systems with greater levels of interconnectivity. Product is a flexible high speed solution for use with various mating card thicknesses and comes with a choice of rugged features.

SAMTEC

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-93

Combination D-sub connectors save pcb space Series of IP67-rated combination D-subminiature connectors deliver high reliability in rugged environments. Available in the latest one-piece solid body frame design, the IP67-rated combination D-sub connectors are supplied pre-populated with signal, high power or coaxial contacts. Available in standard combination pin configurations, devices provide a single-connector solution for harsh environment applications requiring a combination of power, signal and coaxial connections.

CONEC http://ept.hotims.com/40523-94

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-22

6-Position connector is multifunctional TE Connectivity 6-position power double lock (PDL) connector meets the market demand for multifunctional appliances. Double-row crimp panel-mount connector solution provides a resin material, retainer and ergonomic design, and incorporates glow wire option, terminal position assurance (TPA) and good handling properties. Device complies with UL94 V-0 and IEC 60335-1. TPA retainers help prevent contacts from backing out in applications with random vibration and ensure full contact insertion within the housing.

HEILIND ELECTRONICS

®

THiNK Keystone Polarized Battery Holders

EP&T-THiNK-GC+CR2.indd 1

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-96

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-97

POLaRIzEd baTTERy hOLdERS

• Available in SMT and THM versions • For CR2 & CR123A Lithium batteries • Polarized to assure proper continuity and circuit protection • SMT versions feature gold-plated phosphor bronze contacts • THM versions feature tin-plated phosphor bronze contacts • Ideal for low profile, space saving PCB applications • Designed for Reflow and all PCB soldering applications • Suitable for Industrial and Consumer product applications • Durable, rugged High Temp Nylon housing • Lightweight • Quick & easy battery installation/replacement • Available in Bulk or on Tape & Reel • Optional Covers available • Request Catalog M60

MiniMax rugged push-pull interconnect solution provides an all-in-one 20 signal (0.5A) and 4 power (5A) device with a patentspending 24 mixed contacts. Designed for small applications, device is suitable for harsh environments and measures about the width of a push-pin, so that the power and signal don’t interfere with one another. Product series is available in three latching systems: push-pull, breakaway and screw lock.

FISCHER CONNECTORS

® ELECTRONICS

C O R P.

It’s what’s on the inside that counts.

EMX Enterprises Ltd Vancouver • Toronto • Montreal Tel: (905) 764-0040 • 1-800-268-6822 Web: www.emx.ca • e-mail: sales@emx.ca

8/10/12 12:04:18 PM

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-23

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-24

24

connectors

electronic products and technology • september 2012

1mm Pitch header, socket strips save real estate 1mm pitch through-hole, single row sockets and headers save real estate.

860-10-0XX-10-002000 header and 861-13-0XX-10-002000 socket (XX=2 to 50) join existing 1.27mm; 1.778mm and 2mm pitch interconnect devices.

Through-hole soldered to the pcb, devices provide support and durability for applications requiring multiple insertions and extractions. The 860 series header and 861 series socket have solder tail diameters of .38mm and .36mm) respectively.

MILL-MAX http://ept.hotims.com/40523-98

High density RF interconnects are suitable for broadcast video HDBNC high density RF interconnects are suitable for broadcast video applications requiring high density panel arrays that result in additional strain on the interface due to ganged cabling. Devices are based on the familiar quarter-turn BNC coupling design, but with patented advancements permitting a four-fold increase in panel density compared to traditional BNCs, while maintaining the true 75 ohm performance and robust mechanical properties users expect from a BNC interface.

SAMTEC http://ept.hotims.com/40523-102

Cable’s -40C rating withstands demanding environments Alpha Wire V-Flex Industrial Series cable is designed for variable-frequency drives (VFD), providing eaturing both UL and CSA tray cable ratings, a low temperature rating of -40°C, and a bend radius that is 5x that of standard VFD cable. Product’s cross-linked polyethylene insulation provides superior resistance from corona discharge, low capacitance for longer runs, and low temperature properties. Device’s TPE jacket can hold up to everything from corroding solvents (UL Oil Res I/II) to intense sunlight. The 5x static bend radius allows V-Flex to be bent to fit in tight corners, easing installation.

MATERA TECHNOLOGIES

HDMI connector boosts definition interface in micro space Kycon KMMDMIX Series HDMI Type D (Micro) connector provides the same quality high-definition interface in half the size connection of a Type C (Mini) HDMI device. Unit’s small footprint and low profile provide equivalent mechanical strength and electrical characteristics as standard HDMI. 19 position receptacle, surface mount device comes in tape and reel packaging, Mylar tape.

MILLENNIUM MARKETING

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-103

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-99

MIL series connectors survive 300G mechanical shock

Panel mount connectors terminate by screw

G3 Series filtered connectors are MIL-DTL-38999 Series III compliant and show no measurable change in filtering performance after exposure to 300G shock, 60G sine vibration and 18C per second thermal shock. Compliance to the environmental requirements for MIL-DTL-38999 filtered connectors, with no deratings, is facilitated by a rugged design that isolates the critical filtering components from mechanical and thermal stresses.

Device facilitates high-density filtered connectors and modularizes internal components to reduce production lead times by 25 to 30%.

COOPER INDUSTRIES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-100

Power connectors innovate with industrial applications

Series 713 and 763 M12 connector line has expanded with panel mount connectors with screw terminations making it possible to attach wires in the field without any special tooling or soldering. Panel mount devices come with 4, 5 and 8 gold-plated contacts in male and female versions. Product’s screw terminations accept a maximum wire gauge of 16AWG and transmit currents of up to 8 A with the 4 and 5 pin versions.

In order to determine the direction of the angled cable outlet of the mating connector the 4- and 5-pin panel mount connectors can be positioned in 4 x 90 degree steps.

BINDER http://ept.hotims.com/40523-104

Connection system streamlines terminations

Deutsch DTSK Series electrical connectors provide a variety of solutions for industrial applications. The easy-to-use single cavity device are made of heavy-duty thermoplastic and accept size Ø8mm contacts that are rated up to 150 amps. Device provides latch style mating and an integrated secondary lock, simplifying connector assembly.

Wire seal grommets are available to prevent dirt, dust and moisture from contaminating connections.

LADD INDUSTRIES

2734 Series MCS-MINI MultiConnection System female connectors employ push-buttons to streamline terminations. Aimed at compact electronics, product’s high-visibility, contrasting push-buttons (orange on white or white on orange) simplify handling of all conductors AWG 24–14. Hands-free operation provides firm’s PUSH WIRE termination of solid and ferruled, finestranded conductors. Providing wire-to-board, wire-to-wire, board-to-board and boardto-wire connections, product is rated 300V/10A (UL/CSA) and is 100% protected from mismating.

WAGO

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-101

HARTING-DC1-ad15CA-EPTsept_Layout 1 8/21/12 4:03 PM Page 1

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-105

Where Are You Headed?

UL recognized clips fit cylindrical fuses

The Choice is Yours.

HARTINGsamples.ca

No matter what direction you are going with D-Sub connectivity, HARTING has the creativity and foresight to drive you and your ideas to success. Our product roadmap exceeds today’s demands with customizable and readily available solutions for every route.

• Flexibility of mixed D-Subs • Compact design of high density versions • IP 67 connectors for harsh environments

• Competitive pricing • Excellent customer and technical support • FREE samples

Choose your D-Sub destination, and we will get you there. Order your FREE samples now. HARTINGsamples.ca.

HARTING — Connect to Innovation Nation HARTING Canada Inc. | 8455 Trans-Canada Highway, Suite 202 | St. Laurent, QC H4S1Z1 | +1 (855) 659-6653 | info.ca@HARTING.com | HARTING.ca

Keystone Electronics UL recognized fuse clips provide end-stops to insure safety and design integrity. Available for use with Cylindrical Fuses sizes 1AG thru 8AG, Midget and Solar Protection (SPF) style fuses. The low profile, space saving devices are suitable for applications from 6 to 30 Amps and are manufactured from brass and tin plated to assure low contact resistance.

EMX ENTERPRISES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-106

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-25

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

connectors

electronic products and technology • september 2012

32-Circuit wire-to-wire connection system performs in high-conductivity apps CMC product line introduces a 32-circuit wireto-wire connection system to perform in highconductivity applications and harsh environments.

The modular, hybrid connection system is sealed, high-density, modular connection system adopts a complete CMC connection system throughout the entire vehicle, harness makers need only one female connector and terminal system for both their wireto-board and wire-to-wire applications. For additional flexibility, the 32-circuit wireto-wire male plug is designed for either bracket or clip mounting to accommodate the specific space and application requirements of each customer.

MOLEX

Connectors boost power density, reduce power loss PwrBlade+ Series connectors combine high linear current density and low power loss with ruggedness and durability to deliver an ideal connector solution for truck and trailer-based communications equipment. Devices provide high power contacts with an optimized beam design that increases linear current density in a compact package. Contacts are rated up to 75A without exceeding a 30C temperature rise in still air. Products maintain a wide operating temperature range of -40C to +125C, and its vented design maximizes heat dissipation to deliver effective cooling to ensure high performance even in the most extreme conditions.

FCI http://ept.hotims.com/40523-114

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-107

European cords come with H07BQF cable MEGA H07BQF cable for EV applications in Europe come with EPR rubber insulated, orange polyurethane jacketed cables.

Products are suitable for applications where an abrasion and chemically resistant cable are required and may be used in wet environments.

MEGA ELECTRONICS http://ept.hotims.com/40523-108

Microminiature circular connectors come in COTS configurations Microminiature circular connectors save space, and weight, while increasing interconnect reliability with Mil Spec material. Used in military, medical and industrial applications, devices are ready for overmolding and insertion into handheld probes and instruments. Products are available in three shell sizes, 5, 12 and 27 positions.

OMNETICS CONNECTOR http://ept.hotims.com/40523-115

Cavity sealed receptacles prevent contamination Deutsch Industrial DRB Series environmentally sealed 128 cavity receptacles prevent dirt, dust and moisture from contaminating electrical connections. Receptacles accept 112 size 16 contacts and 16 size 12 contacts. Constructed of heavy-duty thermoplastic in a high-density rectangular design, device consolidates several connections into a single bulkhead unit. For quick and easy assembly, device uses a steel jackscrew for mating and requires no special tools when inserting and removing contacts. ct LADD INDUSTRIES

fischer MiniMax Series TM

Connect 2 Innovation When Less is More!

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-109

Mini-Snap PC connectors provide versatility ODU Mini Snap PC connectors share inserts with firm’s series B, L and F products. Versatile devices are available in watertight, shielded disposable and autoclavable versions. Most of the units are capable of mating with Fischer brand connectors. Product line is UL registered, light weight and available with touch-proof and nonmagnetic, with EMI protection.

ODU-USA http://ept.hotims.com/40523-110

Push-push SIM connector stabilizes TE Connectivity Push-push SIM connector provides dual-slanted contacts that deliver a stable connection and super low-profile enabling a sleeker product design.

Device’s super low-profile design provides connector height of 1.4mm, which is 25% thinner than existing products and helps reduce the height of end devices.

Product provides a card detect switch that enables hot swap and a wider card slot compatible with all SIM cards.

Product’s half-moon shape opening strengthens EMI protection. Extra open space at the front side of the housing helps prevent finger cuts when inserting or extracting the card.

HEILIND http://ept.hotims.com/40523-111

Lightweight compact COTS connector suited to MILaero apps LEMO M Series Connector family provides insert configurations from 2 to 114 contacts and is focused on applications that require a MIL-38999 type connector, but in a smaller, compact and lightweight package with higher contact densities. Device has been through extensive testing (EIA 364 and MIL-STD 810) to validate lightening strike, vibration, and other critical environmental, EMI shielding, and flammability attributes, desired in aerospace and military environments.

BIRDE MARKETING

New ■ ■

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-112

■

Wire-to-wire connector delivers small pitch and profile AVX Miniature 9286 Series wire-to-wire (WTW) connector system for through-wire applications provides a simple and reusable method for connecting discrete wires and leaded components in electronics applications. Device supports 18-26AWG with up to 8-pin connectors. The push-button activation permits stripped solid or stranded wire to be inserted and removed or replaced. Reusable device provides small profile and pitch at 4.00mm. The robust design can withstand harsh environments, with an operating temperature range of -40C to +125C and an 8A current rating.

TECH TREK

Miniaturization & high density Unique combination of 24 mixed pins (20 signal + 4 power) Waterproof to 120m mated and unmated

www.fischer- minimax.com Fischer Connectors, Inc. Tel. 800.551.0121 mail@fischerconnectors.com

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-113

Minimax_4_875x10pouces_b0_EN_US_08_12.indd 1 http://ept.hotims.com/40523-26

w w w. e p t . c a

13.08.12 16:14

25

26

connectors

electronic products and technology • september 2012

Hand-foldable, etched bend channels incorporate shim, spacer or connector

Pcb terminal blocks deliver ‘push-in’ technology

Hand-foldable, etched bend channels are a feature that can be incorporated into shim or spacer or connectors. Etched bend channels allows users to bend the sidewalls of a part from a 2D flat part to a 3D finished form, quickly and precisely. Complex designs cost no more to produce than simple ones. Photochemical Etching (PCM) process is geared to producing components to the tightest tolerances in the fastest possible time scales and at competitive rates. Tooling costs are minimal, allowing modification to designs without significant cost penalty.

SHIMIFREZ

FKDSO pcb spring-cage terminal is specifically suited for firm’s ME and ME MAX housings. The push-in technology, as well as the ease of handling of the printed circuit board terminal ensures a high degree of convenience when wiring. Device provides a rated voltage of 300V, a rated current of 10A (according to UL Use Group D), and a connection cross section of 0.2–2.5mm².

PHOENIX CONTACT

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-119

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-116

Armored HDMI av cables are crush resistant HDMI audio/video cable line with Ethernet provides a crush-resistant armor over the cable length. Products are available in either plastic armor, with a crush resistance of 1000 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch), or metal armor, with a crush resistance of 1500 PSI. Products survive exposure to excessive force, such as military, security, and industrial environment applications. Products provide 30 micro-inch gold plated contacts and double shielding to protect the sensitive audio and video signals from interference.

L-COM http://ept.hotims.com/40523-117

Connectors serve as safe alternative to traditional twist-on In-Sure push-in wire connector is fast, easy, no-twist pushin device that accepts any combination of 12-18 AWG solid or tin-bonded copper conductors. Product saves time and improves productivity. Product’s clear polycarbonate housing provides instant visual verification of every connection, while a built-in gauge lets the user measure strip length and a check port allows for continuity testing. Compared to traditional units, device can reduce wiring time by up to 50% because the simple glide-in installation requires little force. The no-twist connection also reduces repetitive motion fatigue.

IDEAL INDUSTRIES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-120

Data interconnect meets harsh-environment specs MIL spec high-speed RJ45 and USB connector systems incorporate ABAC (MILDTL-38999 series III) or AB05 (MIL-DTL-26482) derived metal shells with full 360-degree EMC and mechanical protection. Devices provide high reliability through environmental sealing, enhanced mechanical protection and EMC performance. Across the range, all-metal housings ensure the toughest thermal resilience, enabling operation from - 40C to +120C. Additionally, the ultra-high speed connector, ABAC R6A, enables data rates up to 10Gbit/s for CAT6a mil-spec networks.

TT ELECTRONICS http://ept.hotims.com/40523-118

Subminiature color-coded snap-in connectors prevent mis-mating Series 620 snap-in connector line includes color-coded plugs and receptacles that help to prevent accidental mis-mating when several devices are installed on the same equipment.

With an OD of 11.5mm, product provides a smaller option to the larger Series 720 snap-in connectors. Product comes in standard black color, as well as red, blue and green colorcoded design. Male and female devices come in cable- or panel-mounted versions, with 3, 4, 5, or 8 gold-plated solder contacts. When fully mated, the connection is IP67-rated to protect against ingress of liquids or dust.

BINDER-USA http://ept.hotims.com/40523-121

Circuit board trends continued from page 20

D-Sub and TCA where connectors with different contact types are utilized. In the case of D-Subs this can allow for mixtures of signal, power, coax, high voltage and pneumatic within one connector. Benefits to the customer include design flexibility, fewer individual connectors and space saving.

• New Surface Mount Compatible connectors allow DIN 41 612, D-Sub, IDC and SCSI through-hole connectors to be terminated using existing SMD manufacturing lines, cutting out one stage of production.

• Surface Mount Technology has helped the pursuit of further miniaturization, reducing packaging density while dispensing with hole drilling, another space saver. SMT connectors should be rugged as they have to provide reliability in industrial environment. HARTING developed D-Sub surface mounted connectors with die cast brackets which provide > 500 N retention for per bracket, compatible with current SMT board designs.

• Today’s DIN 41 612 connectors can be supplied with kinked pins or snap in clips.

These provide mechanical fixing during the soldering process and dispenses with the need for rivets or bolts.

• Connector manufacturers are able to provide the market specific product variants users require, such as low smoke and fire resistant materials used in DIN connectors modified specifically for the rail transportation industry, and nonmagnetic D-Subs required for applications

Harting’s han-fast lock connector.

such as MRI machines.

As upstream parts suppliers, the connector industry is highly sensitive to the increasingly specialized needs of our customers, and end users. We tell our salespeople: Don’t sell parts, sell solutions.

That’s why many component innovations begin as standard catalogue items but can be part of cost-effective, customized solutions to suit today’s growing array of specialized customer applications.

For more information on the har-flex connector line from HARTING Inc. of North America, go to http://ept.hotims.com/40523-122

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-27

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

products on review

electronic products and technology • september 2012

USB coaxial switch supports standard plug-and-play functionality

Multi-master module controls lighting interface actuators

U1810B USB-powered, single-pole double-throw coaxial switch operates from dc to 18 GHz and provides system-design and manufacturing engineers a long-operating-life solution with convenient RF switching. Device supports the standard plug-andplay functionality of typical USB devices, eliminating the need for additional power adapters or drivers, and simplifying setup. A button on the switch enables users to toggle the signal path between two output ports without using the software interface. Product improves performance with guaranteed 5-million-cycle operating life (though users can expect 10 million cycles to be typical), and guaranteed 0.03 dB insertion loss repeatability.

AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES CANADA

753-647 DALI Multi-Master Module controls 64 Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI) actuators and connects with up to 64 sensors. Device eliminates installing a sensor-only parallel bus (e.g., brightness measurement and presence detection), boosting DALI operational efficiency via a more cohesive network structure.

Product’s comprehensive configuration GUI for 753-647 simplifies commissioning and management of DALI networks. The software simplifies project overview and optimizes device addressing.

WAGO

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-123

Commercial pcb terminal blocks come with modular or single piece housings ASI line of commercial printed circuit board terminal blocks come with modular or single piece housings from 2 to 24 positions. Devices provide horizontal, vertical or angled wire entry. Product bodies come in choice of screw machined or stamped metal, copper alloy. Devices provide wire protection or rising cage termination, as well as divisible housings which can be cut to any number of circuits. Green or gray housings are available to match existing suppliers if necessary.

J-SQUARED TECHNOLOGIES

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-128

EMI test receiver detects EMI, reduces testing times R&S ESR EMI test receiver with broadband architecture allows standard-compliant EMI measurements up to 6000 times faster than other solutions.

Comprehensive diagnostic tools such as spectrogram display, realtime spectrum analysis and IF analysis help users detect and eliminate EMI. Easy-to-use product provides intuitive touchscreen interface.

Unit is available in two different models for frequencies ranging from 10 Hz to 3 GHz or 7 GHz to meet the requirements of all users who perform EMC certification on commercial equipment.

ROHDE & SCHWARZ http://ept.hotims.com/40523-129

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-124

ac-dc power supplies boost power density VMS-300 family of compact 300W power supplies provide high power density of 12.5 W/in3. The space-saving units are housed in three optional case styles, including a compact U-frame measuring 5 x 3.2 x 1.5 inches (127.00 x 81.28 x 38.1 mm) and an enclosed version with top or rear fan.

Products meet EN60601-1 3rd edition specifications for medical and dental applications, carry UL/cUL and TUV 60601-1 3rd edition safety certifications, and provide EN55022 class B EMI compliance. Units include 4k Vac reinforced input-to-output isolation and an output-to-ground isolation of 1500 Vac. CUI http://ept.hotims.com/40523-125

Digital dc-dc converter provides wide input WDE Series 75 Watt 1/8 Brick digital dc-dc converter provides an ultra wide 4:1 input range, 9-36 and 18-75Vdc and output voltages available in 24, 28 and 48Vdc. All models are fully isolated input to output and housed in an encapsulated, five-sided shielded enclosure. Case dimensions are 2.5” x 1.1” x 0.55”H. Units provide remote sense, trim and analog ON/ OFF. No minimum load is require.

CALEX http://ept.hotims.com/40523-126

10W ac-dc converter comes fully encapsulated AHF10 Series 10Watt ac-dc converter in a fully encapsulated 2.52” x 1.77” x 0.75” plastic case provides pcb mounting with solder pins. The Class II protection Series is compliant to EN55022 Class B/EN610005 standards, Energy Star/ErP Directive 2009/125/EC, and bears international safety approval marks. Product provides universal input range of 85-264Vac, single/dual tightly regulated outputs with efficiency ratings up to 77%, an operating temperature range of -25C to +70C and comprehensive protection circuitry.

MINMAX TECHNOLOGY http://ept.hotims.com/40523-127

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-28

w w w. e p t . c a

27

28

electronic products and technology • september 2012

Embedded Systems & Engineering Computers Upverter’s browser-based EDA tools focus on collaboration, usability Toronto-based firm moves enterprise eCAD to the Cloud Zak Homuth’s dreams are not small, nor insignificant when it comes to the world of leading edge electronic design automation. Homuth, the cofounder of Toronto-based Upverter, would like to see nothing less than electronic engineers around the globe accessing his web-based schematic editing tools to design anything that has a printed circuit board (pcb).

Officially launched a year ago by Homuth and his partners Stephen Hamer and Michael Woodworth, Upverter (upverter.com) builds on the progress of the open source hardware community, bringing free and open electronic design automation tools to everyone.

“We've moved a lot closer to the enterprise world with our latest upgrades. We are very confident that this will save engineers a bunch of time and money,” Homuth says.

Expanded beyond its original capabilities as strictly a schematic capture tool, Upverter’s online electronics design tools now also perform pcb layout and simulation all together in a single editor on

the web browser. This includes schematic diagrams, design hosting, parts library and GitHub integration.

“Our original objective was more focused on enabling and accessibility, but now its much more about saving engineers time when doing their jobs,” Homuth adds. “Half the time and half the cost.”

At no cost, 5,000 current Upverter users can explore more than 8,000 open source hardware projects. Users can get inspired and expand on designs that already exist, says Homuth.

“Collaboration in real-time saves designers a lot of time, as they witness the ongoing state of their design process,” he adds. “Now designers can work in groups, in real-time with collaboration built in. You never have to email files back and forth ever again. It is as simple as adding an email address to your project.”

Software productivity tool helps component buyers A brand-new software productivity tool called DistiStock, designed to simplify the process of sourcing and purchasing electronic components has been rolled out by Torontobased Smart Data Works Ltd. (www.dististock.com).

Licensed to the end-user on a subscription basis, DistiStock helps components’ buyers, purchasing agents, electronics engineers and other electronic components purchasing professionals retrieve up-to–the-minute information about in-stock, authorized inventory, prices, lead-times, RoHS status, MOQ’s and more. DistiStock retrieves the information from 66 major authorized electronic distributors in a single click. DistiStock includes distributors in 21 countries on five continents.

“What sets DistiStock apart is that the information is retrieved in real time. In other words, the information you see represents the real picture at the very moment that the user searches for it, not information stored in a database that at best is last night’s news, or at worst, completely outdated,” says Gunter Richter, a senior developer of DistiStock.

DistiStock enables users’ desktops to communicate with the authorized distributors directly, efficiently and in real time. For users, this means that DistiStock’s information can be counted on; the parts are authentic, the quantities are real, the prices are current, and the manufacturers are the actual manufacturers on your AVL, according to Richter.

“There is no need to worry about phantom stock, budget overruns or counterfeit parts,” he adds.

By facilitating quick access to up-to-the-minute authorized inventory information from major distributors of electronic components around the world, DistiStock helps alleviate the most common supply-chain bottle-necks, as well as addressing concerns about counterfeit and substandard electronic components” reported Gunter Richter, a senior developer of DistiStock.

DistiStock delivers the most recent stock levels and price breaks, as well as MOQ’s, factory lead-times, RoHS status and alternative parts. Special alerts about obsolescence, anticipated ship dates, factory allocation, NRND, Off-shore inventory and NCNR are also supplied.

Mobile form solution mobilizes, speeds DAQ TrueContext Mobile Solutions Corp., Ottawa, maker of the mobile data solution ProntoForms, has reached an agreement with Canadian wireless carrier Bell Mobility, to carry its mobile form solution.

Simple to integrate, ProntoForms increases business productivity by improving the quality and speed of data collected in the field - as well as allows mobile workers to access business data directly on smart devices.

ProntoForms has two vital components to mobilize a paperless business workflow.

The first is the mobile App, for data collection on smartphones or tablets, incorporating features and functionalities such as photo/signature/barcode capture, and lookup tables, for easy access to key back office data. The other component, the Web management portal, allows account managers to create forms, manage mobile users and access usage reports. Most important, the portal allows administrators to easily configure their back office system connectivity, and/or connect collected data to cloud platforms such as Dropbox, Google Docs and Microsoft SharePoint.

Canadian instrument joins NASA Mars mission

Tektronix Component inks ASIC services deal Tektronix Component Solutions, Beaverton OR, a custom microelectronics services provider, has struck an agreement with leading supply chain aggregator MOSIS to help customers develop complete, high-performance ASIC solutions while reducing the cost of early-stage ASIC development. Through the use of multi-project wafer runs for device prototyping and package development early in the design cycle, customers can cost effectively improve the time to first packaged ASIC. “The use of supply-chain aggregators like MOSIS is a proven development method for highperformance ASICs,” says Tom Buzak, president of Tektronix Component Solutions.

“We see our relationship with MOSIS as providing a complete, cost-effective ASIC solution for customers needing low-volume, high-performance devices.”

By utilizing the MOSIS and Tektronix Component Solutions team, customers can reduce the cost of initial ASIC prototyping by employing multi-project wafer runs, rather than developing their own complete mask set prior to first silicon tape-out.

NASA's latest mission to Mars is highlighted by its rover, dubbed Curiosity, which is carrying an instrument provided by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) in Longueuil QC. The device is roughly the size and shape of a Rubik’s cube.

Known as the Alpha Particle X-Ray Spectrometer (APXS), the device is used to probe the chemistry of rocks and soils on Mars to help determine if the planet ever was, or could still be today, an environment able to support microbial life.

“In 2008, Canadians celebrated as NASA’s Phoenix Mars Lander mission marked the first time we, as a country, landed Canadian technology on the surface of another planet,” said Steve MacLean, president of the CSA. “Mars Science Lab is another first for Canada: the first time we reach out and “touch” Mars, since APXS will investigate the planet’s surface.”

The Canadian two-in-one instrument is the second of Webb’s four instruments to be delivered. It consists of the Webb’s Fine Guidance Sensor (FGS), which directs the telescope precisely, and the Near-Infrared Imager and Slitless Spectrograph (or NIRISS) science instrument. Both were designed, built and tested by COM DEV International in Ottawa and Cambridge ON, with technical contributions from the Université de Montréal and the National Research Council of Canada, and under the leadership of the FGS science team.

The CSA is investing $17.8 million in the design, construction, primary operations and scientific support of APXS. The CSA managed the development and construction of the instrument with MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (MDA) as the prime contractor for APXS. The University of Guelph provided the scientific direction for the design and engineering support during the development, calibrated the APXS instrument and will lead the science operations for the instrument. Components of APXS were tested in Brampton, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa, Toronto and Guelph.

Newark element14 provides ARM cert tech support

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-29

Distributor of electronic components and engineering solutions Newark element14 has expanded its technical support team to include ARM trained and certified specialists.

The team’s embedded design specialists are now providing software and tools selection assistance for developers who are using any ARM-based processor, including ARM Cortex-M3 and Cortex-M4 core processors. In addition, the distributor stocks Keil MDK ARM and ARM DS-5 Integrated Development Environment tools plus In-Circuit Emulators (ICE) and Debuggers

to support trace, debugging and performance analysis for embedded systems.

“We’re committed to making it easier for developers to access best-in-class software and hardware along with a wide range of tools, resources and collaboration forums so that they can design smarter and faster,” says Jeff Jussel, senior director technical marketing, Newark element14.

“Embedded designers can count on us for the technical support and products they need to put together a complete ARM solution—the silicon, design software, debug solutions and RTOS.”

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

electronic products and technology • september 2012

embedded systems & engineering computers

Design software accelerates scalability of measurement, control systems

Vector signal analysis delivers offline complex RF, microwave signals

LabVIEW 2012 version of system design software provides ready-to-run starting points for a breadth of LabVIEW applications and access to new training options that improve the quality of systems.

Product provides recommended application architectures designed to save time, ensure scalability and lower maintenance costs. Product includes stability improvements and environment enhancements derived directly from customer feedback designed to increase productivity.

NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS

SignalVu-PC software provides in-depth, offline analysis of complex signals captured using firm’s real-time signal analyzers and oscilloscopes including the MDO4000 mixed domain oscilloscope.

Product simplifies validation of wideband designs and characterization of spectral events and speeds up time-to-insight by showing the time-variant behavior of RF signals. Product meets the market need to minimize test budgets while at the same time performing deeper analysis than ever before.

TEKTRONIX

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-130

CompactPCI 6U boards push performance-per-watt barriers Kontron CP6004-SA 6U CompactPCI processor board sets new performance-per-watt standards for high-end applications. Product is based on the Intel QM77 Express Chipset and scalable up to the quad-core 3rd generation Intel Core i7-3615QE processor with 4 x 2.3 GHz (3.3 GHz in Turbo mode) and provides up to 20% enhanced computing power and increased performance per watt. Product’s integrated HD 4000 graphics provide an improved user experience. Product is designed for high density, thermally constrained CompactPCI systems that require high performance in a typical 60 watt or less power envelope.

INTEGRYS

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-135

Tiny computers-on-module, expansion boards aid embedded designs Waysmall Silverlode computer is a compact 11.0 x 4 .4cm, 1.8cm tall, low-wattage computer-on-module (COM) designed for developers of commercial and industrial vertical market applications. Housed in an aluminum case, the less-than 2.5W product reduces power consumption by more than half when compared to alternative solutions. Product’s small footprint fits in remote locations. Device provides DVI-D, 100baseT Ethernet, audio in and out, and three USB ports - USB OTG, USB Client (console access), and USB Host (High-speed only).

GUMSTIX http://ept.hotims.com/40523-136

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-131

Transceiver module is programmable MRF-900-TCMP low cost embedded wireless module is based on the Si1000 RFIC from Silicon Labs and is a selfcontained, fully tested surface mountable RF module. Device measures .43” x .991”, is low power (<0.1uA sleep), high performance (141dB link budget). With 100mW transmit power and receiver sensitivity on the order of -121dBm, device can communicate over distances in excess of a mile in open-field LOS conditions, and 1000+ feet indoors. Module supports OOK/FSK/GFSK modulation and can operate at data rates from 2K-125K bits/second.

DIGITAL SIX LABORATORIES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-132

Four-socket servers are memory-intensive Rackform iServ R420 and R445 rackmount servers based on the Intel Xeon Processor E5-4600 product family provide up to 32 cores and up to 1TB DDR3 memory per server. Units provide a flexible system with enhanced performance per watt. Products combine expansive memory capabilities with the flexibility found in two-socket models. Both units provide four Intel Xeon E5-4600 Series processors, 32 DIMMs, optional embedded 10GbE controller, and 80 PLUS-certified digital switching power supplies.

SILICON MECHANICS http://ept.hotims.com/40523-133

Fast, embedded NAND storage suits mobile devices eMMC (embedded multimedia card) Pro Class 1500 ultra-fast embedded memory for mobile devices comes in 16-, 32- and 64-gigabyte (GB) densities. Device reads data sequentially at up to 140 megabytes per second (MB/s) and writing it at up to 50 MB/s.

For random reading and writing, device can process up to 3500/1500 IOPS (inputs and outputs per second), four times the speed of previous eMMC solutions.

SAMSUNG SEMICONDUCTORS http://ept.hotims.com/40523-134

w w w. e p t . c a

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-30

29

expressmart / engineering & technical white paper

electronic products and technology • september 2012

express

engineering

mart

TECHNICAL TECHNICAL && WHITE WHITE PAPERS PAPERS

CHARACTERIZING AND TROUBLESHOOTING LOW SPEED SERIAL DATA DEVICES The new X-Series signal generators are capable of testing your customers' very best devices and designs. They produce the signals your customers need - from simple to complex, from clean to dirty to test a device within and beyond its limits.

In Stock. Immediate delivery available.

These new RF (up to 6 GHz) signal generators offer industry-leading performance and are packed with customer-requested features.

The new signal generators are: 

N5171B EXG X-Series RF Analog Signal Generator



N5172B EXG X-Series RF Vector Signal Generator



N5181B MXG X-Series RF Analog Signal Generator



Several types of tools in digital oscilloscopes will allow the user to decode serial data streams or trigger on certain addresses or data values. This paper examines more advanced diagnostics which can be used for systems which incorporate I2C,SPI, UART, RS-232, CAN, LIN, Flexray, DigRF 3D, DigRF v4, ARINC 429 or MIL-STD-1553 busses.

HARTING har-flex® Printed circuit boards don’t have to be two-dimensional. Mezzanine connectors like HARTING’s har-flex® series allow for stacking mezzanine cards on top of a primary board or in motherboard-daughterboard and board-to-cable configurations. har-flex® offers PCB design flexibility and cost effective upgrading of current systems. http://tinyurl.com/har-flex www.harting.ca HARTING

http://lcry.us/Nvr7iI Teledyne LeCroy http://ept.hotims.com/40523-32

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-33

N5182B MXG X-Series RF Vector Signal Generator www.gapwirelessonline.com Tel: 905.826.3781 Info@gapwireless.com

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-31

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

Absopulse Electronics Limited . . . . . . . . . 28 Agilent Technologies Canada Inc. . . . . . OBC Allied Electronics, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Avnet EM (AZ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Birde Marketing Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Carling Technologies Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Conec Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Digi-Key Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 EMX Enterprises Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Fischer Connectors Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 GAP Wireless . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Hammond Mfg. Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Harting Canada Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24, 30 Heilind Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Irwin Industrial Agencies Limited . . . . . . . . 4 J-Squared Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 LeCroy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Mega Electronics Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Mouser Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Murata Power Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 NEWARK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Noritake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 ODU USA Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Omega Engineering Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC Omnetics Conn. Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Otto Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Protocase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Rohde & Schwarz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Samtec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Schleuniger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Schurter Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Selectron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Solid State Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 TDK- Lambda Americas Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Tektronix, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

products on review

6U Dual power backplane delivers current sense/share

AOI inspection solution speeds throughput

Pixus Technologies Power backplane with dual 47-pin connectors per PICMG 2.11 power interface specification in the 6U form factor provides sense and current share signals to better regulate and distribute power. Unit’s physical size comes in 6.5U or 6U height by 16HP wide, with two CompactPCI hot-pluggable slots using standard 47-pin connectors. Units are designed for either ac or dc power to be supplied, including accommodations for rear power entry modules for 48V requirements. Wire harnesses are also available, providing +3.3V, +5V, +/-12V, GND and control signals between the backplanes.

J-SQUARED TECHNOLOGIES

V510 G2 Series of V510 Advanced Optical Inspection (AOI) solution high-throughput productivity for SMT line production. System improves performance for faster inspection with inspection speeds up to 55 cm2/sec for post-reflow and 65cm2/sec for pre-reflow. Unit provides low power consumption with a brilliant LED monitor display and improved ergonomic adjustment to increase viewing comfort (sit-stand operation). Product’s multi-shot imaging technology enables the system to capture up to 180 frames per second and the multi-core processing technology significantly enhances inspection time.

VITROX TECHNOLOGIES http://ept.hotims.com/40523-138

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-137

Conductive adhesive strings ribbon solar apps 530-121 conductive adhesive suitable for ribbon stringing in thin-film solar modules is less cost than pure silver-filled material and has been optimized for improved conductivity and stability on various substrates when cured at 150C. Product has a dispensing work life greater than 48 hours (measured as a 25% increase in viscosity), while maintaining optimized rheology for dispensing and excellent damp heat resistance.

ENGINEERED CONDUCTIVE MATERIALS http://ept.hotims.com/40523-139

High accuracy temperature monitor delivers adjustable alerts LTC2996 high accuracy temperature sensor for 2.25V to 5.5V systems measure a remote diode’s temperature with ±1C accuracy and its own die temperature with ±2C accuracy, while rejecting errors due to noise and series resistance. Device provides a voltage-proportional-to-absolute-temperature (VPTAT) output, as well as individual undertemperature and overtemperature alert outputs, defined by user-adjustable thresholds. No code is required to configure the device. With a 200µA quiescent current, the LTC2996 simply provides a precise, space-saving, micropower temperature monitoring solution.

LINEAR TECHNOLOGY http://ept.hotims.com/40523-140

The EPTECH Shows have thousands of

LEADING-EDGE PRODUCTS & SERVICES on display:

• Passives • Switches • Wire & Cable • ICs • Test Equipment • Data Acquisition • Electronic Components • E-Commerce • Peripherals • Industrial Electronics • Relays • Hardware • Tools • Connectors • Semiconductors • Batteries • CAE/CAD Systems • Sensors • Chemicals • RoHS Compliant Products ...and many more!

MISSISSAUGA TECHNICAL SEMINAR Program at all venues!

If you are an: Engineer; Designer; Technician; Purchaser; Technical & Senior Management ... or are involved with electronics ...plan to attend NOW!

FREE Registration online at www.ept.ca/eptech/

2012

30

September 27 Mississauga Convention Centre

QUEBEC CITY/STE. FOY October 23 Hôtel Plaza Québec

OTTAWA

October 25 Brookstreet Hotel

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-36

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-34

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-37

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-35

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-38

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-39

You should expect more from a power supply than just power.

Fast Forward with exclusive Agilent functionality There’s more to a great power supply than just clean, reliable power. That’s why Agilent power supplies are designed to simplify difficult tasks and streamline setups. Backed by decades of power expertise and breakthrough technology, Agilent power supplies provide fast, accurate sourcing and measurements to give you confidence in your results.

Ag gilent DC Power Supplies (200+ choices) Gain insights with scope-like dispplayy, ARB and data logger Ensure DUT safety with extensive built-in protections Increase throughput with industry-leading processing speed

Agilent and our Distributor Network Right Instrument.

Right Expertise.

Delivered Right Now.

Buy from an Authorized Distributor

www.agilent.com/find/distributors

Download our Power Supply Selection Guide Find the one to match your specific need www.agilent.com/find/powercatalog

© 2011 Agilent Technologies, Inc.

http://ept.hotims.com/40523-40