Educational

Written by our experienced team and industry experts, the articles in this section provide accurate and high-quality information on component basics, circuit design, microcontrollers, IoT, and more, guiding engineers and electronics enthusiasts.


What Are Microchips Made Of: Silicon's Impact & Its Alternatives

Microchips, though small in size, play an enormous role in the functionality of almost every electronic device we use today. These tiny powerhouses are embedded in a vast array of gadgets and systems, from the most basic household appliances to the most advanc...

By Robin Mitchell | 07-12-2023

How are Microchips Made? From Silicon Crystals to Integrated Circuits

Microchips, the cornerstone of modern electronics, are born from a process that is as intricate as it is fascinating. But how are microchips made? This article delves into the complex journey from silicon to sophisticated electronic components. For a comprehen...

By Robin Mitchell | 30-11-2023

Counterfeit Electronics: Mitigating Risks in the Semiconductor Industry

The issue of counterfeit components is a prevalent one that continues to plague the electronics industry. Counterfeiting costs U.S.-based semiconductor companies more than $7.5 billion per year according to the Semiconductor Industry Association. However, this...

By Jack Pollard | 27-11-2023

The History of the Microchip: How a Tiny Device Changed the World

The microchip, often smaller than a fingernail, is fundamental in the digital era, powering devices from simple gadgets to advanced supercomputers. Its journey from a concept to a key element in nearly all modern technology is a story of innovation, deception,...

By Robin Mitchell | 22-11-2023

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Because Machines Get Lonely, Too

Well, not really. But like people, machines excel when they communicate with other machines across the hierarchy. NewParagraphNewParagraph Picture a manufacturing floor where robotic arms operate in perfect sync. Each arm is 'aware' of the others, optimizing t...

By Gary Elinoff | 17-11-2023

What is RISC-V? How Open-Source ISA Shapes Future Processor Design

RISC-V represents a paradigm shift in processor architecture, characterised by its open-source model that streamlines design philosophy and fosters a global community-driven development. This approach has led to a significant shift in how processor technology...

By Jack Pollard | 07-11-2023

Mastering Light Intensity: A Deep Dive into Advanced Measurement Techniques

In the intricate world of lighting applications, the need to measure and compare the intensity of two distinct light sources is not just common but essential. Whether it’s about maintaining a consistent brightness level in control rooms or ensuring optimal lig...

By Jack Pollard | 19-10-2023

What is an Embedded System? From Basics to AI Powerhouses

Computers, including Windows, Apple, and Linux devices, are familiar to everyone. But did you know that this is NOT where the vast majority of microprocessors end up being employed?  Dell Technologies[1] states that while 349 million PCs were shipped in 2021,...

By Gary Elinoff | 16-10-2023

IP Ratings Explained: Choosing the Right Power Supply

IP ratings play a crucial role in determining how well an electrical device, such as a power supply, is shielded against external elements like dust and moisture. This article offers insights into the various IP codes available, their distinct differences, and...

By Maximilian Hülsebusch | 09-10-2023

IP67 vs. IP68: Which Connector Rating is Best for Your Needs?

Connectors often have to endure a range of elements, from dust and moisture to high or low temperatures and pressures. Whether it’s an outdoor environment or an indoor industrial environment, connectors must be engineered to the appropriate level of ingress pr...

By Northern Connectors | 19-09-2023

What is a Diode? Exploring the Basics of Electronic Components

Diodes, often dubbed the unsung heroes of electronics, are pivotal in shaping the modern electronic landscape. Serving as one-way gates for electrical currents, they're embedded in countless devices we rely on every day. Dive in as we unravel the intricacies a...

By Jack Pollard | 06-09-2023

RGV in Logistics: Studying Rail-Guided Integration in EVs

In the realm of smart logistics, the rise of automated transport vehicles has been nothing short of remarkable in the past decade, with major car manufacturers investing in the establishment of entirely new vehicle production lines. In addition to traditional...

By Advantech | 04-09-2023

How to Optimize SiC Inverter Efficiency with Real-Time Gate-Drive

George Lakkas - Automotive Marketing Manager for High-Power Drivers at Texas Instruments Understanding the traction inverter basics, these devices are the main consumers of battery power in electric vehicles (EVs). Essentially, they work by converting di...

By George Lakkas | 25-08-2023

5 Things to Know about Biomass: From Photosynthesis to Power

Derived from the biological processes of life, biomass encompasses both plant and animal matter. Historically, humans have utilized biomass for energy, such as burning wood. In modern times, its role in global energy supply has expanded, with sources like corn...

By Gary Elinoff | 22-08-2023