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How Semiconductor Manufacturing Benefits from Smart Fabs

Semiconductor manufacturing is a complex industry and small improvements anywhere in the process can make a big difference to the bottom line. This article discusses the benefits of continually optimizing manufacturing for the semiconductor industry by introducing smart manufacturing solutions.

May 19, 2020 by Tim Hewitt, Siemens Digital Industries Software

The Role of Last-Level Cache Implementation for SoC Developers

There is a challenge for SoC developers to find ways to navigate the demand of memory in their design. This article looks at how a fourth, or last-level, cache can provide a solution.

May 12, 2020 by Kurt Shuler, Arteris

Design Solution for Automotive LCD Displays Utilizing LED Driver ICs

See how multi-channel automotive LED driver ICs implement backlight local dimming, bringing ‘true black’ to automotive LCD displays.

February 04, 2020 by Szukang Hsien, Maxim Integrated

The Importance of Reliability Verification in AI/ML Processors

With the adoption of artificial intelligence and machine learning in a wide variety of applications, reliability verification of AI/ML processors is critical since failures can have major consequences for the validity and legitimacy of AI/ML technology.

January 21, 2020 by Neel Natekar, Mentor

Analog Design Trade-Offs in Applying Linearization Techniques Using Example CMOS Circuits

This article will look at the trade-offs we face when trying to improve the linearity of a circuit.

January 13, 2020 by Steve Arar

The Good and the Bad of MCU Internal Oscillators

This article describes the benefits and requirements of the internal RC oscillator often available inside many low-cost Microcontroller units, including the calibration procedure to obtain the best possible accuracy.

December 11, 2019 by Eduardo Corpeño

AXI Interconnects Tutorial: Multiple AXI Masters and Slaves in Digital Logic

This article will explore AXI interconnects, the digital logic that allows multiple AXI masters and AXI slaves to communicate.

November 28, 2019 by Stephen St. Michael

How RISC-V Security Stacks Strengthen Computer Architecture

In this article, Ted Speers of Microchip reflects on how RISC-V and its security stack offer a solution for the development of computer architecture and processor security.

November 26, 2019 by Ted Speers, Microchip

How Automated CDC Protocol Verification Accelerates Testing Processes

This article describes a methodology that automates set up, constraints, and results analysis as designs move from static CDC analysis to formal verification to simulation and avoid manual scripting efforts, thus reducing setup effort and errors.

November 14, 2019 by Kurt Takara, Mentor

Understanding Collector Current in BJT Beta Variations

This article looks at factors that can alter the functionality of a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) by causing variations in its forward current gain.

November 11, 2019 by Robert Keim

Obtaining Convergence for High-Q XTAL Oscillators

Learn a method of attaining convergence when simulating very high Q crystal oscillators using Cadence’s Virtuoso Periodic Steady State (PSS) analysis.

October 30, 2019 by Kevin Aylward

Determining Copper Trace Thickness in PCB Design

This article discusses the issues surrounding trace-width calculation and provides a solid foundation for designing your next high-current net.

October 22, 2019 by Mark Hughes, Advanced Assembly

Introduction to the Advanced Extensible Interface (AXI)

This article will introduce the Advanced Extensible Interface (AXI), an extension of AMBA.

October 17, 2019 by Stephen St. Michael

The Relationship Between Rise Time and Bandwidth in Digital Signals

In this article, we’ll look at the relationship between the rise/fall time of a digital signal and its bandwidth.

October 10, 2019 by Steve Arar

Via Configurations for Connecting Decoupling Capacitors

In this article, we’ll focus on the different via configurations that can be used to connect a decoupling capacitor to the PCB power and ground planes.

October 07, 2019 by Steve Arar

PCB Thermal Management Techniques

This article will discuss design practices that ensure better thermal management, including some common methods for removing excess heat from a PCB.

October 06, 2019 by Amos Kingatua

The Importance of Advanced ERC in Circuit Design

This article introduces and explores advanced ERC, highlighting its differences from traditional ERC and discussing how it can help create better circuit designs.

September 17, 2019 by Derong Yan, Mentor

The Journey of RISC-V Implementation

In this article, Western Digital's Ted Marena explores the reasons companies have and the process they go through when integrating the open process instruction set architecture RISC-V.

September 10, 2019 by Ted Marena, Western Digital

Meeting ASIL Compliance for ADAS with an Integrated SoC Power System Monitor

This article looks at the safety standard that governs ADAS features and the challenge in designing power monitoring systems to comply with this standard while introducing an automotive power monitor that has been certified to meet this standard.

September 06, 2019 by Michael Jackson, Maxim Integrated

Common PCB Stackups for a Four-Layer Board

This article looks at the common options for a four-layer board stackup.

September 04, 2019 by Steve Arar