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Introduction to Clock and Data Recovery

Introduction to Clock and Data Recovery

Learn how PLLs enable communication in which a clock signal is not transmitted with the data. We’ll look specifically at return-to-zero (RZ) and non-return-to-zero (NRZ) data formats.


Foundations for PLL Nonlinear Analysis: Modeling the Phase Detector and VCO

Foundations for PLL Nonlinear Analysis: Modeling the Phase Detector and VCO

The phase-locked loop (PLL) is widely used in contemporary analog and digital communication systems. In this article, we develop a nonlinear model for the analog PLL by analyzing its key components.


Exploring the Relationship Between FM Wave Bandwidth and the Modulation Index

Exploring the Relationship Between FM Wave Bandwidth and the Modulation Index

In this article, we'll investigate how varying the amplitude and frequency of the modulating tone impacts the bandwidth of FM signals. We'll also compare the modulation index in AM and FM schemes.


Why Class D Amplifiers Need Anti-Parallel Diodes

Why Class D Amplifiers Need Anti-Parallel Diodes

Learn how anti-parallel diodes protect Class D amplifiers from the effects of reactive loads and inductive kickback.


Understanding Inductors With Gapped Cores

Understanding Inductors With Gapped Cores

In this article, we explore the advantages of introducing an air gap to the magnetic core of an inductor.


Moving Data Through an LTspice Parallel-Load Shift Register

Moving Data Through an LTspice Parallel-Load Shift Register

This article demonstrates the operation of an LTspice shift register and discusses details of its schematic and timing relationships.


What’s the Difference Between RS-232 and RS-485?

What’s the Difference Between RS-232 and RS-485?

Though both standards have long been used for serial communication, RS-485 offers valuable features that aren't available from RS-232. Learn more in this article.


Introduction to Pressure Transducers

Introduction to Pressure Transducers

Learn about pressure transducers: devices used in a variety of industrial, medical, automotive, and consumer applications to sense pressure and convert it into electrical energy.


Histogram ADC Testing: The Linear Ramp Histogram Test

Histogram ADC Testing: The Linear Ramp Histogram Test

Histogram testing is the most popular method for determining analog-to-digital converter (ADC) static parameters. In this article, learn the basics of histogram testing and the specifics of how to use a linear ramp histogram test.


What is an Application-specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC)?

What is an Application-specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC)?

Indispensable for modern electrical engineering, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) form a diverse group of integrated circuits (ICs) that help designers to optimize sophisticated electronic devices.


Explore the Y Factor Method for Noise Figure Measurement

Explore the Y Factor Method for Noise Figure Measurement

Learn about measuring the noise figure (NF) using the Y factor method. We'll dive into using this to find the noise factor, how to calibrate for noise temperature, and much more.


What is an Image Processor? Turns Out the Answer is Hazy

What is an Image Processor? Turns Out the Answer is Hazy

Real-time image processing is a resource-intensive task that often requires specialized hardware. With that in mind, let's explore processors that are designed specifically for photo and video applications.


Analyzing a Negative Voltage Charge Pump in LTspice—Source and Load Resistance

Analyzing a Negative Voltage Charge Pump in LTspice—Source and Load Resistance

Learn about using LTspice simulations to provide important insight into the performance of a switched-capacitor voltage-inverting power supply.


Can Voltage Be Negative? Understanding Negative Voltage

Can Voltage Be Negative? Understanding Negative Voltage

In addition to explaining the nature of a negative voltage, this article briefly discusses how negative voltages are generated and why they are useful in circuit design.


Multiphase DC-DC Converter Pros and Cons

Multiphase DC-DC Converter Pros and Cons

This article will help you decide when to consider a multiphase approach to step-down, switch-mode voltage regulation.


Designing Firmware for Embedded Systems Using Warnier-Orr Diagrams

Designing Firmware for Embedded Systems Using Warnier-Orr Diagrams

Go from chaos to clarity by learning how to design programs for embedded systems leveraging the Warnier-Orr diagrams.


Exploring the Basics of Bluetooth Low Energy: A Beginners Guide To BLE

Exploring the Basics of Bluetooth Low Energy: A Beginners Guide To BLE

Learn about the Bluetooth low energy (BLE) wireless communication protocol, namely its features, protocol stack, and how it communicates with devices.


Introduction to Multiphase DC-DC Converters

Introduction to Multiphase DC-DC Converters

This article explores step-down switching power supplies that divide output current among multiple regulation subcircuits operating in parallel.


RF Design Basics: VSWR, Return Loss, and Mismatch Loss

RF Design Basics: VSWR, Return Loss, and Mismatch Loss

Learn about voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR), return loss, and mismatch loss, which helps characterize the wave reflections in a radio frequency (RF) design.


Is Assembly Language Still Relevant for Embedded Software Development?

Is Assembly Language Still Relevant for Embedded Software Development?

As embedded systems continue to evolve, you might wonder: should I learn assembly language for embedded software development? Learn the answer in this article.