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GPS Times, Atomic Clock Frequencies, and the Increasing Accuracy of GPS

GPS Times, Atomic Clock Frequencies, and the Increasing Accuracy of GPS

GPS as we know it requires the precision of atomic clocks. This article looks at the importance of timing for GPS and the clocks that provide it.


Multiplication Examples Using the Fixed-Point Representation

Multiplication Examples Using the Fixed-Point Representation

This article will discuss several multiplication examples using the fixed-point representation.


The FitByte: How to Make an ATtiny85 Powered Activity Tracking Wearable

The FitByte: How to Make an ATtiny85 Powered Activity Tracking Wearable

This is a protoype of a fitness wearable device designed to vibrate when it detects stagnation.


Projects Dec 13, 2017 by Demsey Kirkwood
High-Speed Waveform Generation with an MCU and a DAC

High-Speed Waveform Generation with an MCU and a DAC

In this article, we’ll evaluate different firmware strategies in our pursuit of maximum-frequency analog signal generation.


Projects Dec 08, 2017 by Robert Keim
Pixel Intensity Histogram Characteristics: Basics of Image Processing and Machine Vision

Pixel Intensity Histogram Characteristics: Basics of Image Processing and Machine Vision

This article introduces the image histogram and discusses its characteristics and applications.


The Polyphase Implementation of Interpolation Filters in Digital Signal Processing

The Polyphase Implementation of Interpolation Filters in Digital Signal Processing

This article discusses an efficient implementation of the interpolation filters called the polyphase implementation.


Handling Fragile and Irregular PCBs in Processing and Testing Machines

Handling Fragile and Irregular PCBs in Processing and Testing Machines

Manufacturers can use fixtures or panels to secure or frame fragile, thin, or oddly shaped PCBs. This allows them to easily fit the boards in the standard assembly or inspection machines.


How to Generate a High-Precision Waveform Using a DAC and a Custom PCB

How to Generate a High-Precision Waveform Using a DAC and a Custom PCB

In this article, we’ll develop firmware that will serve as the basis for high-precision, high-speed signal generation.


Projects Dec 01, 2017 by Robert Keim
Fixed-Point Representation: The Q Format and Addition Examples

Fixed-Point Representation: The Q Format and Addition Examples

Fixed-point representation allows us to use fractional numbers on low-cost integer hardware.


How to Check and Calibrate a Humidity Sensor

How to Check and Calibrate a Humidity Sensor

How accurate is your humidity sensor? Find out with this project.


Power Hold-Up and Energy Storage Management Devices

Power Hold-Up and Energy Storage Management Devices

In this article, we discuss power hold-up and some energy storage management devices in the context of SSDs.


PCB Layout for an Arbitrary Waveform Generator

PCB Layout for an Arbitrary Waveform Generator

In this article we’ll discuss the PCB layout for a custom-designed arbitrary waveform generator board.


Two’s Complement Representation: Theory and Examples

Two’s Complement Representation: Theory and Examples

This article will review the theory of the two’s complement representation along with some examples.


Circular Buffer: A Critical Element of Digital Signal Processors

Circular Buffer: A Critical Element of Digital Signal Processors

This article discusses circular buffering, which allows us to significantly accelerate the data transfer in a real-time system.


Rigid vs. Flexible PCBs: Which One is Best for Your Next Project?

Rigid vs. Flexible PCBs: Which One is Best for Your Next Project?

Learn about rigid PCBs vs. flexible PCBs, when it's better to use one type instead of the other, and learn about some manufacturing steps related to each of these PCB types.


Purpose and Internal Functionality of FPGA Look-Up Tables

Purpose and Internal Functionality of FPGA Look-Up Tables

This article explains the Look-Up Tables (LUTs) constituting Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs).


The MIT-i Color Blender! RGB LED Color Blending

The MIT-i Color Blender! RGB LED Color Blending

Blending colors may sound elementary but it is vital in drawing attention to your project with RGB LEDs!


Projects Nov 08, 2017 by Ryan Jones
Tamper Detection with Differential Inductive Sensing Coils

Tamper Detection with Differential Inductive Sensing Coils

This article demonstrates the creation of an inductive switch cabinet lock that can detect the movement of a conductive target. The purpose is to create a door that cannot be opened without triggering an alarm.


Projects Nov 06, 2017 by Mark Hughes
PCB Copper Trace Finish: Materials and Plating Methods

PCB Copper Trace Finish: Materials and Plating Methods

In this article, we discuss why PCB copper traces should be plated, and we’ll review various plating materials and plating methods.


How to Interface an Ultrasonic Sensor with an LCD Using a Microcontroller Dev Kit

How to Interface an Ultrasonic Sensor with an LCD Using a Microcontroller Dev Kit

Let's interface an ultrasonic sensor and a lighting system! In this project, we'll design a sensor subsystem and then use it in a parking sensor application.


Projects Nov 02, 2017 by Nick Davis