Latest Electromechanical Technical Articles

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Communication Protocols: Reviewing the Options for Encoder Applications

This article discusses the use of an encoder to ensure accurate ongoing tracking of a motor's rotor shaft and the key factors that will help in the selection of the encoder based on different parameters.

March 16, 2021 by Jason Kelly, CUI Devices

Simplifying EV Power Design by Overcoming the Gate Driver Power Challenge

Power conversion systems in EVs follow the half-bridge configuration. This article explores the IGBT half-bridge design of a high-voltage side (output stage) of the gate driver.

February 16, 2021 by Charlie Ice, Silicon Labs

Minimizing Stepper Motor Noise and Vibration in Precision Motion Control Applications

Stepper motors work well in a wide range of applications but can struggle with torque ripple and current distortion issues. Learn about QuietStep, a proprietary algorithm from Allegro MicroSystems, as a possible solution. 

February 02, 2021 by Dan Jacques, Allegro MicroSystems

Touchscreen vs. Button Interface Design: Capacitive and Resistive Touchscreens and Haptics

Learn about some of the most important fundamentals for understanding how interface technologies have evolved.

January 07, 2021 by Steve Taranovich

Precisely Capture Servo Motor Position Using a High-Speed Simultaneous Sampling ADC

Autonomous drones and robots utilize small motors. These fast-spinning mini motors require miniature encoders and IC package sizes. This article shows how an optical sinusoidal encoder provides a higher resolution and increased speeds with a 2x3 mm dual simultaneous-sampling SAR-ADC.

August 11, 2020 by Bonnie Baker, Maxim Integrated

Motorizing the IoT With Battery-powered Stepper Motors

This article looks at how stepper motors work well in IoT-oriented tasks such as positioning security cameras and remote sensors or actuating air vents, valves, and window covers. 

July 14, 2020 by Bernhard Dwersteg, TRINAMIC Motion Control

An Overview of Driver Circuits for Piezo Transducer Buzzers

This article covers the advantages and disadvantages of several common driver circuit design techniques for piezo transducer buzzers.

April 07, 2020 by Ryan Smoot, CUI Devices

What Are Zero-Ohm Resistors and How Are They Used In Circuit Design?

In this FEQ (Frequent Engineering Question), we'll take a look at the advantages of zero-ohm resistors and where they're most suitable in design.

March 06, 2020 by Robert Keim

Synchronous Demodulation Using Analog Multipliers vs. Switch-based Multipliers

In this article, we’ll look at the pros and cons of using a switch-based multiplier.

February 02, 2020 by Steve Arar

Exploring Power Transformer Protection for Power Systems: Failure Types and Differential Protection

Learn why power transformers are important, where they can fail, and why protection systems are crucial.

April 26, 2019 by Edis Osmanbasic

Introduction to Supercapacitors

Get a primer on the basics of supercapacitors, their functionality, and which applications they're best for.

January 28, 2019 by Maurizio Di Paolo Emilio

How to Choose the Right Driver IC for Stepper Motors

This article discusses features and functionality offered by integrated circuits that simplify the task of controlling a stepper motor.

December 12, 2018 by Robert Keim

Choosing the Right Motor-Driver IC

This article provides some practical guidance on how to evaluate integrated circuits intended for controlling brushed DC motors.

December 07, 2018 by Robert Keim

Designing Smart Meters with Circuit Protection, Sensing, and Power Control Capabilities

This article offers an overview of the various component options for smart meter design and how they can improve the operation of the meters into which they are designed.

December 04, 2018 by Philippe Di Fulvio, Littelfuse Inc

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.

December 04, 2018 by Robert Keim

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.

November 21, 2018 by Stephen St. Michael

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

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

November 12, 2018 by Eric Bogatin

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.

October 15, 2018 by Robert Keim

What Is a PLC? An Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers

What is a PLC? This article will lay out a succinct definition of what a programmable logic controller is and lay out its basic components.

October 03, 2018 by Stephen St. Michael

Protect Your Summer Harvest with the Gentleman Maker’s Raspberry Pi and Arduino Dog Corrector

In this episode of the Gentleman Maker, we're using a Raspberry Pi and an Arduino Uno to stave off the onslaught of dogs trying to eat every single plant in our garden.

August 09, 2018 by Robin Mitchell