Engineers are using wide-bandgap semiconductors and sensors to develop some innovative solutions in a wide range of industries, from automotive to consumer electronics. In Elektor Engineering Insights episode #23, Stuart Cording provides insights and updates. 

PCIM and Sensor+Test 2023 Report

In episode #23, Stuart Cording investigates two areas of the semiconductor industry that are driving a wide variety of innovations — wide bandgap semiconductors and sensors.  According to Cording, wide-bandgap semiconductors are "changing how power converters and motor inverters are designed. It is driving improvements in efficiency, size, reductions in heat dissipation, and making the previously impossible possible."
 

When it comes to sensors and to sensing technology, engineers have numerous next-gen solutions to tackle projects, problems, and challenges of all shapes and sizes. 

"These devices are more than just a sensor in a black package these days," Cording explains. "Advanced analog is being coupled with digital to offer highly Integrated Solutions that open up new choices for design engineers in everything from industrial and Automotive to consumer electronics."

Cording recently attended two shows on these subjects. At PCIM, he investigated power electronics, intelligent motion, renewable energy, and energy management. A Sensor and Test, he took a look at new solutions for sensor measurement and recent innovations in testing technology.
 
Armin Derpmanns from Toshiba tells me more about the ongoing development of their SiC lineup.
In the episode:
 
  • 1:15 - Carlos Castro introduces Nexperia's new e-mode GaN FETs.
  • 6:46 - Chris Boyce from Nexperia talks about component documentation and interactive datasheet.
  • 12:43 - Armin Derpmanns from Toshiba talks about SiC solutions.
  • 15:19 - Matthias Ortmann introduces the 22kW SiC Cube demonstrator.
  • 20:06 - Paul Wiener delivers an update on GaN devices and which applications will benefit from this wide-bandgap tech.
  • 24:16 - Stephen Oliver talks about GaN integration.
  • 28:44 - Wide-bandgap is changing the demands on passive components. Chris Noade (Knowles Precision Devices) talks about application challenges.
  • 33:51 - Over at Sensor+Test, Enda Nicoll of Analog Devices demos an innovative multiturn magnetic sensor.
  • 39:13 - Gaetan Azergui from Analog Devices shows their OtoSense solution for electrical motor condition-based monitoring.
  • 43:20 - Start-up Sykno is leveraging the growing range of CMOS radar chipsets. Fabian Michler presents the vital signs system and a pending range of radar evaluation boards.
  • 48:26 - Stuart rounds up the engineering insights.

More Engineering Insights

Elektor Engineering Insights is a regular show for busy engineers and maker pros looking for updates about the world of electronics. In each episode, Stuart Cording discusses real engineering challenges and solutions with electronics industry experts. Learn More