Proximity sensors are a modern technology that allows for nearby objects to be detected without any physical contact being established. In order to detect various objects, proximity sensors will often utilize the emission of an electromagnetic field or electromagnetic radiation so that any changes may be detected when the return signal is received. When discussing the object sensed by the sensor, it is referred to as the proximity sensor’s target. Depending upon the design and implementation of such technology, various applications may benefit from the use of a proximity detector or sensor. In this blog, we will discuss the common types of proximity sensors, allowing you to better understand their uses and functionalities. Read more >>

An amplifier, or amp, is a type of device that is implemented within electronics for the means of bolstering signal power. As a two-port electric circuit, the amplifier utilizes electric power provided by a power supply in order to increase a signal’s amplitude at the output terminals. The amount of amplification that may be achieved by an amplifier is referred to as its gain, that of which is the ratio of the output voltage, current, or power to the input. In this blog, we will discuss the most common amplifier types, allowing you to understand their uses and functionalities. Read more >>

A variable resistor is a resistor with a resistance value that can be adjusted. Essentially, variable resistors are electromechanical transducers that normally work by sliding a contact over a resistive element. When a variable resistor is used as a potential divider by using three terminals, it is called a potentiometer. When only two terminals are used, it is known as a rheostat and functions as a variable resistance. There are also electronically controlled variable resistors, which can be controlled electronically instead of by mechanical action. In these cases, the resistor is called a digital potentiometer. In this blog, we will discuss potentiometers, rheostats, digital potentiometers, and their functions. Read more >>

Although integrated circuits (IC) sit atop the world of electronics, the transistors within them do the bulk of the work. Within each IC are millions of transistors constantly switching on and off to allow the IC to complete its functions. Even if just one of the many transistors were to stop working, the IC could lose some or all of its capabilities. Read more >>

Sensors are among the most critical parts of many devices and systems. When it comes to analyzing physical or environmental conditions, temperature is among the most important parameters. As such, when designing an electronic device or system that requires temperature measurement, designers have many options to select from. Two of the most common temperature-sensing technologies, which offer features and functionality for a wide range of uses, are negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors, and resistance temperature detectors (RTD). Read more >>

When managing an electrical circuit, resistors are components that serve to reduce current flow and adjust signal levels in order to further the safe and efficient distribution of power. Depending on the application that needs a resistor and its presented electrical ratings, a variety of resistor types and materials may be used in order to achieve varying operations and resistances. As one of the primary materials for manufacturing, carbon can allow for a number of robust resistors to efficiently manage the current loads of many different electrical systems. Read more >>

Pressure transducers have never been more prevalent, or more reliable. With stainless steel construction and modern engineering, pressure transducers can provide overpressure protection, improved total error band, and negligible orientation and vibration effects. They are ideal for long-term use in harsh environments of extreme temperature, humidity, and vibration. However, pressure transducers can fail like any other piece of equipment. Common causes include improper wiring, incorrect polarity, inadequate power supply, multiple grounds, short circuits, operations issues, and problems with the transducer itself. In this blog, we’ll explore some trouble-shooting techniques that can help you determine just what went wrong with your transducer. Read more >>

For many, circular connectors have become a go-to solution for automation systems because of their benefits over hardwired systems. Circular connectors are easy to use, compact in size, adaptable, and rugged enough for outdoor use. One particularly popular type of connector is the M23 connector. Read more >>

On December 3rd, researchers from Intel Corporation and UC Berkeley published a paper in the popular science journal Nature, proposing an idea for a new kind of memory and logic circuit which could be 10 to 100 times more energy-efficient than current microprocessors. The microprocessors we have today are based off complementary metal-oxide-semiconductors (CMOS). These new devices are magneto-electric spin-orbit (MESO) and feature five times more logic operations than their older counterparts. Read more >>

Panasonic Corporation, a well-known electronics corporation, recently began the mass production of prismatic-type automotive lithium-ion batteries at their factory in Dalian, China. The ceremony that celebrated the first batch of shipment took place this March. Read more >>