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Clock Signals in FPGA Design: Data Path Maximal Clock Rates and the Xilinx PERIOD Timing Constraint

Clock Signals in FPGA Design: Data Path Maximal Clock Rates and the Xilinx PERIOD Timing Constraint

This article will discuss the Xilinx Period timing constraint that allows us to describe the characteristics of the clock signal that will be used with an FPGA design.


Introduction to MEMS (Microelectromechanical Systems)

Introduction to MEMS (Microelectromechanical Systems)

This article explores basic characteristics and common applications of a technology that has been incorporated into a wide variety of high-performance electronic devices.


2D Convolution in Image Processing

2D Convolution in Image Processing

This article provides an insight on 2-D convolution and zero-padding with respect to digital image processing.


Understanding Bandwidth in Communications and Computing

Understanding Bandwidth in Communications and Computing

This article discusses how to interpret and specify bandwidth in systems that involve data transmission and digital processing.


What Is Bandwidth?

What Is Bandwidth?

This article explores the surprisingly complicated details associated with a word that we frequently use but perhaps don’t fully understand.


Ladder Logic in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)

Ladder Logic in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)

This article describes the programming language ladder logic used to program PLCs and shows examples of how it functions.


How to Measure Noise in Switch-Mode Power Supplies (SMPSs)

How to Measure Noise in Switch-Mode Power Supplies (SMPSs)

Noise on switch mode power supplies (SMPSs) sometimes gets a bum rap.


Which Via Should I Choose? A Guide to Vias in PCB Design

Which Via Should I Choose? A Guide to Vias in PCB Design

How much do you really know about vias, one of the building blocks of PCB design?


What Is Inductance and How Does It Apply to Ground Bounce?

What Is Inductance and How Does It Apply to Ground Bounce?

Why you should care about even small amounts of inductance.


Understanding the Virtual Short in Op Amp Circuits

Understanding the Virtual Short in Op Amp Circuits

This article explains and discusses an important simplification technique used in op amp analysis.


Schematic Symbols for Electronic Components: Transistors

Schematic Symbols for Electronic Components: Transistors

This two-article series presents an overview of circuit symbols and also provides some information on the components themselves.


Electrical Symbols for Electronic Components: Passive Components

Electrical Symbols for Electronic Components: Passive Components

This two-article series provides an overview of circuit symbols, along with some information on the components that they represent.


How to Reduce Ground Bounce: Mitigating Noise with PCB Design Best Practices

How to Reduce Ground Bounce: Mitigating Noise with PCB Design Best Practices

Learn what ground bounce is and how you can avoid it with design decisions from PCB layout to programming.


The Path of Least Impedance: How to Use Return Paths for Better PCB Design

The Path of Least Impedance: How to Use Return Paths for Better PCB Design

High-speed signals don't follow the path of least resistance; they follow the path of least impedance.


Power Systems and Battery Chemistries Used in Electric Vehicles

Power Systems and Battery Chemistries Used in Electric Vehicles

This article provides an introduction to the characteristics and requirements of EV battery systems.


How to Design Charge Amplifiers for Piezoelectric Sensors

How to Design Charge Amplifiers for Piezoelectric Sensors

This article explores charge-amplifier design details, including ESD protection and frequency response.


Understanding and Implementing Charge Amplifiers for Piezoelectric Sensor Systems

Understanding and Implementing Charge Amplifiers for Piezoelectric Sensor Systems

In this article we’ll explore a circuit that produces an output voltage proportional to the charge generated by a piezoelectric transducer.


Use It Or Lose It? What Should You Do with Non-Functional Pads?

Use It Or Lose It? What Should You Do with Non-Functional Pads?

Circuit board stacks of four or more layers often have through vias that attach to pads on layers where there is no electrical connection. Should those non-function pads stay, or should they go? This article presents the problem and provides resources.


Intro Software Walkthrough: Fast Fourier Transforms and the Xilinx FFT IP Core

Intro Software Walkthrough: Fast Fourier Transforms and the Xilinx FFT IP Core

This article will explain some of the most important settings and design parameters for the Xilinx FFT IP core and function as a basic walkthrough of the Fast Fourier Transform interface.


Understanding and Modeling Piezoelectric Sensors

Understanding and Modeling Piezoelectric Sensors

This article explains some theory behind piezoelectric sensors and presents an equivalent circuit that you can use when you’re designing sensor systems.