Elektor Proton Robot , A versatile platform for learning and experimentingLPC1200 Cortex-M0 - A simple choice Up to 128 KB Flash with 512 Byte page erase and 8 KB SRAM Industry's first ROM-based divide library for Cortex"-MO, offering fast and deterministic execution for 32-bit division Unique configurable peripherals suited to energy efficient applications Supported by LPCXpresso tool chain for easy development and migrationCE Sree eC td compiler manufacturer in the world to coffer compilers for three programming eres Seater) ~ mikroBasic PRO for PIC32 caer a Backward compatibility Cue eae PIC or dsPIC to PIC32 easily. We have been carefully planing backward compatibility for all of our library functions, so you will ee ec Geer hae) ero reara www.pic32compilers.com Lo IEE: = What is the point of compiler if you have to ‘write your libraries from seratch, or to pay for each and every single one? With our Cea Mme functions, and a head startin development. Deer ae cee price It the best value for the money. PAT ect Rei)Digital Audio Before the compact dsc (CD) appeared ‘on the market, sound editing involved ‘nothing but analog signals. In essence a tiny alternating voltage from a micro- phone ora turntable stylus gotsent through a numberof gin tages before being applied toatape recorderhead, 2 disccutter ora loudspeaker drive unit. ‘These days audio editing and recording Is considerably more complex although consumers falto realize it excluding of ‘course Eektor readers!) Today even the ‘cheapest MP3 players sure to contain a ‘microprocessor or a DSP that performs advanced signal processing to enable ‘memory resident data to arrive on your ‘eardrums in analogue form. For sure, today's DSPs are very powerful cores suitable forall kinds audio) appl- ‘ations, butatthe same time they're highly complex beasts to deal with Consequently it’s nota alleasy to design DSP-based circuit and associated softe ware fyou're not at home in this area ‘The DSP course launchediin this edition we hope spells the end of fears and ignorance surrounding DSPs. Although we intend to make practical aspects prevail inevitably some interaction with theory is required considering that eve- tything in this course revolves around ‘eal circuits with aDSP inside. Along the course several example projects willbe discussed, all of which can be replicated athome or inthe lab using a universal DSP board developed by the author in close collaboration with Elektor Labs. Having digested the course in afew: ‘months time you should be ready to start developing custom applications for the DSP board. In this edition we kek off the course with some theory you really ‘can't get around before the program- ‘ming and soldering can commence. 50 bite the bullet and join our DSP course, it's sure tobe fun and educational. Enjoy reading this edition, Jan Buiting, Editor 26 32 36 40 43 44 48 "aJektor Colophon Who's who a Elektor magazine. News & New Products monthly roundup of all the latest in electronics land. Development Tools on the Go The latest buzewordis ‘apps’ and for sure some ofthese are for electronics engineers. The Nixie Tube Amustread or anyone planning to add the Nixie coolness factor to circuits ‘Audio DSP Course (1) If digital signal processing is AllGreek toyou, join tis course. which covers hardware a well as software! Microphone Conferencing System Wherever the laptop microphone falls ‘miserably, enter this simple circuit Intetigibilty guaranteec! Perfectly Balanced Forever on the wishlist of owners of vintage Hifi amplifiers. here's a noise-free volume contrl Elektor Proton Robot DIY robot design matked by an trsfc degree of versatility in terms of sensors, actuators and even the CPU used. Erlabs Inside: Help! 'm stuck... Eavesdropping on Elektor's technical ‘query phone and email services. Elabs Inside: ‘Aquick temperature measurement ‘An introduction to thermagraphic Imaging systems and results Interpretation E-labs inside: One-eared Skype How the Microphone Conferencing System got adapted to Skype. o4-zen_elektorl ii. | Se CONTENTS 14 Development Tools on the Go Software engineering aids lke CAD are no longer confined to the PC: today’s smartphones and tablet computers already have plenty of apps available for them too. So, we decided to find out what programs are available and how us- able they are. 20 The Nixie Tube It you are planning to add the Nixie coolness factor to your next home brew design we give details oftheir operating principe, power supplies and practical advice on driving the tubes. To inspire you a collection of fascinating readers’ projects has been included 26 Audio DSP Course (1) In this course, in aaition to introducing you to the properties of digital signal processors (DSPs) for audio signals and the associated programming aspects, \we present several applications based on an inexpensive but nevertheless high- performance signal processing module, Hardware and software included! 60 Mobile, Text, CallerID With this projectfor the Elektor ATM%8 module, ll youhavettodoiseitheridens Lufy yourself through the calle ID displayed to the ATi or go right ahead and send a text to your favourite board foritto take the appropriate action clektor_o4z0n 48 48 54 60 66 69 p B 6 84 Volume 37 May 2011 no. 413 Edlabs Inside: Problems with noise About a certain kind of transistor that refuses to produce enough noise. Here comes the Bus (5) The lektor buss now safely out of the Labs Inside section and gets in shape in terms of hardware and software, 1-Channel DMX Light Dimmer Blocks and Flawcode 4 forPIC together build a powerful dimmer {for DMX lighting, Mobile, Text, CallertD ‘This month the Eektor ATMS module gets connected tothe cellphone network with excellent results, Wave Sound Generator Here we mimicthe sound of waves and surf to help you al asleep. The Finishing Touch [Anin-depth look at Schaeffer AG's new free too for designing font panels Virtual Pcs ‘Most PCs today are powerfull enough to ‘run’ another PC asa virtual element. Thishas great potential to the electronically minded, Hexadoku lektor’s monthly puzzle with an electronics touch. Retronics: Tektronix 564 Storage Oscilloscope (1963) Regular feature on electronics ‘odd & ancient’ Series Editor: Jan Butting ‘Coming Attractions "Next month in Elektor magazineee elektor international media by Elektor International Media provides a multimedia and interactive platform for everyone interested in electronics. From professionals passionate about their work to enthusiasts with professional ambitions. From beginner to diehard, from student to lecturer. Information, education, inspiration and entertainment. Analogue and digital; practical and theoretical; software and hardware. “$4 chanel DAS2 Llp Dimer = ml Wane, Marra, Mayan BSNS ‘oral pulsed ech Spins, eran Edraleoea Nasa, 7 Fein Crminanebten oseersth nied edn eins retainer Ltrsinsatnpregpertnatectosatay sabre maize ncrcsatnin ere bans : Fesonlbelbyrestrg cseutenaaecsndetig EE, ph | OT: la ar Sh eopreinestais alee ec rt , aging Drea Rb: Fane ss terol arb, Wis etna (wtih vn ' ‘Reet dW nd tar abtntoeoseseecon ing Caren ies as ao ng) swaerca ene ey ice Temucheisasinictommecges chips SaNeCorLEnstaresis ad kone ts once Dn sa stan sen ea, edfate gn toca anes enibpbbiediinsaenateduiesuets Mtns Tieden en User clans Vise, vet ‘ 520m elektorElektor PCB Prototyper @ A profes with optional extensions! nal PCB router This compact, professional PCB router can produce complete PCBs quickly and very accurately. This makes the PCB Prototyper an ideal tool for independent developers, electronics labs and educational institutions, that need to produce prototype circuits quickly. + Dioyensons:440x350%350 mm (WOH) + Workspace: 2208150340 mm (x¥X2) + Weight approx 35g (78) + Supply voltage: 110-240 VAC 50/60He + integrated high speedspinelemotor smaximum0,000rom (astable) + Integrated dust extraction vacaumsystem noted) + Us8 ortforcomectontoPe + Inches usersrendly Windows-based ‘ofewarewehinegratedPCB software module The PCB Prototyper puts an end to waiting for boards from ‘aPCB fabricator - you can make your own PCB the same day and get on with the job. In addition, the PCB Proto- typeris able to do much more than just making PCBs. Avariety of extension options are available for other tasks, and a range of accessories is already available. Ordering ‘Te complete machine induing softwares price t €3,500/ £3,100 / US $4,900 plus Va. ‘Theshipaing charges for UX delivery are £70. ‘stamers nother countries, plese enque ‘snles@elecorcom am COMED i Cunt rls HNAGIEona TN TOTS ly ‘rat wtp ‘rat osetia on Wierda sip iro Sectiteccscscanenmonnrom — Henan SER Soe cnet eb ee Se ak ong Semaikenmten Satan eth sr thm ied Sere eae open gy alton oa Son The tans Conn weep pemcectiehnsernahe head TRE SNgione ects TE atin min ae Scie enema tt ee ly Al rans, api pred ca boa “Meek publications and actives. The Publisher cannot guaran afta Sante gael aR ia CSica ats Yeenaton nwt eter cme Gerace tnteroncine neater han rma imsciewes Giede Netrn Seetone) cecmea te, Wht Rapeyeitby rena etree Rte a ceretan cf pbtator id tan cto etal ene N Ren meen Cone twmadonsrmestae Fea nent Setar ie eens sce Mente ree SEALANTS coternenlildvone —panlnteain clektor 052001NEWS & NEW PRODUCTS Second generation high voltage battery stack monitor Linear Technology announces the LTC@6803, a second generation high voltage battery monitor for hybrdjelectric vehicle (HEV), electric vehicles (EVs) and ‘ther high voltage, high performance battery systems, The ICSB03 is acomplete battery measuring IC that includes a 12-bit AADC, a precision voltage reference. ahigh voltage input multiplexer and a serial interface. Each LTC6803 can measure up to 12 individual battery cells in series The device's proprietary design enables multiple LTC68035 to be stacked in series without optocouplers or isolators, permitting precision voltage monitoring of every celliniong strings of series-connected batteries. The LTC6803 follows the road- proven LTC6802, introduced back in 2008 With the same functionality and pinout, plus a number of significant performance enhancements The maximum total measurement error of the LTC6803 is guaranteed to be less than 0.25% from ~40°C to 125°C. The (TC6E03 offers an extended cell measurement range from -300mV to 5V, enabling the LTC6803 to monitor a wide range of battery chemistries, as well as supercapacitors, Each cellis monitored for ‘undervaltage and overvoltage conditions, and an associated MOSFET is available to discharge overcharged cells, Added functionality is provided by an onboard 5V regulator, temperature sensor, CPIO lines and thermistor inputs Erik Soule, Vice President, Signal Conditioning Products, stated, “Now over ‘two years in the field with our proven battery stack monitor family, we ate pleased to offer our customers this enhanced product, the LTC6803. Automakers and ‘other customers worldwide have embraced Linear’ robust battery stack monitors, and we are confident that this new addition to the family will provide excellent performance for the next generation of HEVs and EVs For long-term battery pack storage, the ‘current consumed by the integrated BMS. ‘can potentially unbalance the cells, The LTC6803 addresses this concern with a standby mode that draws ess than 12UA, Furthermore, the power input of the LTC6803 is isolated from the stack, allowing the [TC6803 to draw current from an independent source, When powering from this input, the current draw on the packis reduced to less than 1uA. The LTC6803 is designed to surpass the ‘environmental, reliability and safety demands of automotive and industrial applications. The devices full specified for ‘operation from —40°C to 125°C, Ithas been ‘engineered for S0 26262 (ASI) compliant systems and a full set of setests ensure that there areno latent fault conditions, To meet this standard, the UTC5803 includes a redundant voltage reference, extensive logic test circuitry, open wire detection capability and a watchdog timer for fall- safe designs, The LTC6803 is designed to withstand upto 75 V, providing more than 20%of vervoltage margin for afulstring of 12 cells, The 1MHz serial interface includes packet error checking and is designed to ‘operate inthe presence of large amounts ‘of noise and transients The LTC6803 is offered in a small mm x 12mm surface mount device, Priced at $9.95 each in 1,000-piece quantities, ‘samples, demonstration boards and the datasheet are now avaiable at wwelinear. ‘comjproduct)L1C6803-1. The LTC6803 is. row available in production quantities. (0048) waineaccom/pradectiTCSH034 Step-down converter with linear bypass powers multimode PAs in mobile handsets Maxim Integrated Products introduces the MAX8989, a step-down converter designed to power PA (power amplifier) modules in mobile phones. The frst DCDC ‘converter inthe industry to support power management for multiple communication protocols (e.g.. LTE, WCDMA, GSM. and 2 EDGE), the MAX8989 is ideal for converged (mulkimode) PAs. This solution is utilized in Infineon’s proven SMARTi(TM) UEZ RF engine platform, which delivers unparaleled flexibility and efficiency to rmultistandard cellular phone systems. ‘The MAX8989 integrates a high-efficiency switching regulator with a parallel bypass LDO to guarantee maximum efficiency tunder all conditions. This approach enables designers to minimize the amountof power dissipated within the PA by regulating the PA's output stage supply voltage. By controlling the PA supply voltage to meet transmission-power requirements, designers can extend 2G tak time by up to 25% and 36 talk time by upto 10%. ‘The integrated LDO serves to smooth the transition between step-down regulation and operation in dropout, allowing for a seamless transition to higher power levels ‘When in dropout, the LDO becomes alow. impedance (85 milliohm) bypass FET to ensure minimal powerloss during periods of peak curtent demand. Additionally, the switching regulator is capable of a 100% duty cycle to further eliminate losses. ‘The MAX8989 supportsup to2.5, making it an excellent choice for powering GSM) EDGE PAs. [tis fully specified over the ~40 degrees Celsius to +89 degrees Celsius extended temperature range, and offered in compact (1.6mm * 1.6mm, 0.69mm max height), 9-bump waferlevel package (WL). Samples and evaluation kits are available upon request (9048-0) wymemaimiccomMAKS9 89 520m elektor‘Go anywhere’ powerful computing capability The key differences between BVM's new Mobile PC family and the ubiquitous laptop, tablet and Smartphone units les in the fact that Mobile PCisafullindustrial computer, that, by ntegrat> ing several different technologies, is able to acceptinputs froma Fange of sources, store and manipulate the data and act as acom- ‘munications hub. In addition toits PC capabilities, it provides, as standard, 3.5C, Wii and Bluetooth; GPS is also embed- ded, Is key strengths ae the provi- sion of wire-ree inter- net access combined with powerful com- puting, enabling itto be deployed across a wide range of scenar- los: the possible appli- cations ae virtually endless. + Providing computing capability in a Portacabin at the start of a green field development. + Capturing video images, time and GPS location data ionbusesasadefence agains fraudulent personalinjury compensation claims + Controlling motorway signage displays « Interfacing with radio-controlled fire detection systems on construction sites, * String images from IP-based security cameras. «Acting asa server for location-specifc offers in shopping cen tres, sending a special-offr text message to people's phones asthey pickup the Wi signal + Machine-to-Machine communications: embedded or stand- alone mounting to control and manage functionality, capture and communicate data from sensors and provide interoperabil= ity with other machines. All these applications, which demonstrate the wide scope of potential uses fr the BVM Mobile PC units, are currently either inuse inthe field or under discussion with national and interna- tional customers. Designed, developed and manufactured in the UK, as stand- ard, there are various combinations of processor, memory and. HO options available for Mobile PC. Whatever combinations are chosen, a key feature of the family is that all versions are pro- Cypress: Charger Armor avoids false coordinates and phantom touches common with inexpensive chargers Cypress Semiconductor Corp. unveiled a breakthrough feature for its TrueTouch™ touchscreen controllers that enables touchscreens in handsets, cameras, GPS systems and other mobile systems to function seamlessly while connected to noisy chargers. Lowscost, third-party and after-market battery chargers emit large levels of common-mode noise that adversely affects touchscreen performance, elektor_ 05200 ‘often resulting in inaccurate touch readings ‘or phantom touches. Cyp ‘Charger Armor™ feature allows TrueTouch touchscreens to operate normally in the Presence of extreme AC noise ‘The new feature, which is available in Cypress’s CYBCTMA3XX TrueTouch family, is unique in the industry, and solves a common problem that mobile device manufacturers are struggling to ‘overcame, Low cost chargers lack critical noise suppression components, and can ‘generate tens of wots (peak to peak) across the frequency spectrum of 1 Hz to 1 MHz ‘These voltage spikes can go drectlyinto the ‘touch panel during the presence of touch, severely impacting touch performance. AS vided with extensive communication capablties They support Imultiple 3 and3.56 WAN protocols HSUPA, 3G offering upto Su Mbit) HSDPS 3.5 upto 144 Mbit/s and UMTS 3 SG with 2 theoretical 45 Mbts dovnload bandh, Wi-F, conforming ‘to the 802.11b/gin specifications, offering 11, 54 and 600 Mbit/s {aw data rates and Buetooth short-range ad connect are builtin Embedded GPS capabity signieanty extends the func tional of the units into moble appications “The entry level 08100 based on anintel Atom D510 dual core pro testo supports upto 268 of amend has embedded video and high definition uo. 4xUSB2.0 ports and support for wired Ethernet and witless copablity @O) “witnboth activ and passe antennas ate provided The top of the ange (200 isbasedon the 64 bi Core] i5/i3 processors, up to 8GB of RAM, serial ports, 10x US82.0 ports, 2 LCD inverter port anda SMBUS port forcommunication withthe PSU and ther stem ements further copay from BVM Mobiles the iaiPaset-contaned nspecialy designed forbus and truck eet operators eintrfaces wth the vehie's CaNbus supports three major protocls and monitor and stores tore than 3 diferent parameters sucht vehicle speed engine teadng. pn and fuel eel for remote lterrogation bythe en tralfeet management system, which onl lest and track thevehide feet lan rates, progres job and generate report, Ago, comprehensive communications facies ae provided cnt GPS, Bluetooth WiFrand2 5 and 3 SWAN capability, For tong tance hairs, addonto the bcsnesinctonalty of the device, DM compatible Mobile Entertainment capably provides malt-channel TV and radio through the un for when they are parked overnight. TheBVMMobie PC aly andthe Kar ae significant advances inmebit computing offering simple andcostetectve solitons to the previously intractable problems associated with provid- ing sinatcant computing powetreote and oble leatons. Wwenbmicouk fore) such, many of the mobile phone vendors have worked together to create EN 62684 and EN301489, standards which regulate the noise spectrum for battery chargers. While Cypress’s TrueTouch technologyNEWS & NEW PRODUCTS alone can suppress noise at the levels of these standards, Charger Armor allows Cypress to go beyond the standards to deliver truly revolutionary charger noise immunity to the market, enabling mobile devices to operate with the lowest-cost chargers (9948-8) woo cypress comjgofTrueTouch Anritsu: new handheld spectrum analyzer type MS27nE Anvitsu Company recently introduced the MS2711E Spectrum Master, the latest handheld spectrum analyzer designed for technicians, installers, field RF engineers, and contractors responsible for monitoring the growing numberof interfering signals, aswell as assessing signal quality on awide range of increasingly complex signals. Easy ‘to,se, integrated and high performing the MS2711E offers users the performance and features necessary to meet their testing challenges The MS2711E comes equipped with 2 touch-screen interface, easy to use short-cut icons and intuitive menus, all designed to minimize training time and fenhance the user experience. The latest Spectrum Master model also has builtin system level measurements, such as Occupied #andwidth, Adjacent Channel Power Ratio, Emission Mask, and Field Strength measurements. Additionally, the MS2711€ can be configured with various ‘options, such as an interference analyzer, channel scanner, power meter and GPS receiver, to create an integrated solution that eliminates the need to carry multiple instruments JAR: LPC1 Kickstart kit ‘The new AR KickStatKitfor LPCT includes development board with an ARM Cortex.MO based 1PC1227 microcontroller, peripherals | and connectors, an IAR J-Lnk Lite debug probe providing SWD debugging, software development tools and board support packages for various RTOSes. This is believed to be the world’s first ‘commercial starter kit for the ARM Cortex-MO-based LPC1227 microcontroller. The strong partnership and tight cooperation. between NXP andIAR Systems during the development project has led tolAR Systems latest starter kitbeing the first to the market, Inchided in the ktis a code size limited version of AR Embedded Workbench, aset of development tools for building and debugging embedded system applications using assembler, Cand C++. Itprovides a completely integrated development environment that includes a project manager, editor, build tools and the C-SPY debugger, TAR KickStartKitfor LPC1227 is priced at £129 | $169. Itcan be bought online at www. iarcomjeshop. wovevircom (9270) Rugged and lightweight, the MS2711E is GRIVI Tools Version 3 designed for fed use. Weighingless that 3.5 kg, the handheld spectrum analyzer DUNGIES provides a bright 8.4-inch touch-screen GRM Tools proudly announces that they display. Operating temperature is -10° have partnered with DontCrac[k] to to 55" C with a warm-up temperature of announce the awaited release ofthe GRM3. less than five minutes, easily surpassing Tools version 3 bundles available competitive products. Batterylife Not only the famous "CLASSIC" and is greater than three hours, ‘SPECTRAL TRANSFORM" bundles have High-end performance hasbeen maintained been totally re-wtitten from scratch and in the compact design. The MS2711€ are now available in the RTAS ~ AU - VST Provides the best accuracy in its class, so and Standalone formats for Mac & PC. field technicians can confidently conduct but the folks at GRM Tools have designed spectrum monitoring, broadcast proofing an incredible set of new plug-ins called and RF[microwave measurements. Covering "EVOLUTION". the 100 kHz to 3 GHz frequency range. the The GRM Tools “EVOLUTION” bundle is MS2711E has Displayed Average Noise perhaps the most orginal and unexpected Level (DANL) of 142 dBmin 100 Hz RBW, piece of audio software made inthe past dynamic ange of 85 dB to measure small decade. EVOLUTION allows powerful signals in the presence of larger ones, and and unexpected spectral and harmonic frequency accuracy of 50 ppb with GPS. audio transformations such as morphing, Master Software Tools (MST) is provided evolving textures, original “VOCODER" type with each MS2711E, as wellas allSpectrum effects, time shifted fiters, sliding timbers, Masterinstruments. MST provides asimple _nolsing, etc. EVOLUTION can also be used ‘and easy method to manage, archive, as very subtle audio treatment effects in ‘analyze, and print measurement reports, delicate processing situations. Describing and keep the analyzer current with the — what "EVOLUTION" really does is pretty latest fiemware. MST also allows users to tough! We therefore suggestyou download transfer data collected on their MS2711E the free demo (no iLok or authorization to aPC foreasy post-processing analysis. required) and experiment for yourself Anritsu als offers certified training courses EVOLUTION might simply change the way in basic spectrum analysis, interference Sound Designers, Engineers, Musicians or analysis and other options and features, Composers will process audio inthe future. (02704) wamanrtsucom — GRM Tools therefore opened an official 520m elektorGRM Tools forum board at DontCrac{k] for users to post their comments, bug reports and experiences using these new “unconventional” audio took From Friday, March 25 to Sunday. April 17, 2011, EVOLUTION can be purchased as part of the GRM Tools Complete Collection at introductory price of only $489 (MSRP $1150). GRM Tools are actually sold and distributed exclusively by DontCrack-com Via Instant Download. (r0x764¥) yon dont CC sized feature packed system on module Anders Electronics, market leader in the ee of user Interface platforms has Snnounced the avatbiity ofthe new Comput cw33517 9 minbtare syste smmodal bsed on the Tos stent Stara AM3517]05 system-on-chip, featuring the advanced Cortex 8 ARO GPU. uth powers devices om highend feature phones to netbooks, DTV, printers tnd automotive natinment systems Ideally suited for high-visbility, space- Constrained industrial and cetal products like shelf-edge advertising, kiosks, dispensing machines, ticketing machines ff elevator controllers — the CM-T3517 provides a rich set of multimedia, connectivity and storage features on a creditcard size system-on-modue. Leveraging the power and flexibility of the T Sitara AMB517/05 system-on-chip, whichis based onthe advanced Cortex-AB ARM CPU =a proven processor known for its high= ‘end performance — the CM-T3517 enables ‘embedded systems to provide the usability and connectivity that users expect, while stillbeing extremely developer friendly ‘The CM-T3517 ioffered with ether a7 Sitara |ANB517 or Sitara AM3505 with CortexAB core (up to 600 MHz), up to 256 MB DDR2, up to 512 MB flash disk including file system protection, a touchscreen controller supporting d-nice resistive panels, and an “onboard power management chip with single 3.3vinput or Lithium-ion Polymer battery. The multimedia-ready system features PowerVR SGX GPU providing 20/30 ‘graphics acceleration with OpenGL-ES and ‘OpenvVG support, dual Output Graphics (RGB and TV Out), a graphics controller “supporting STN and TFT panels with 1400 x 1050 max resolution, a camera interface port, and audio cadec stereo line-out and microphone. For connectivity, the CM-T3517 offers a 100 Mbps Ethernet port, integral WiFi 802.116/g, Bluetooth interface, MMC|SD/SDIO support including SDHC up to 32GB, 4 serial ports, 2C, S (GPIOs, and 3 CAN bus. Further, in addition to an on-the-go (OTG) host/slave USB2 high-speed port, the CM-T3517 offers an ‘additional four US82 host ports From a software point of view, the CM-T3517 was specially designed to serve as 2 building block in embedded applications, andincludes all the peripherals required to run operating systems such as Linux and Windows CE. (re270-¥) mw anders couk Market’s smallest 3-axis analogue gyroscope stMicroelectronics has extended its motion-sensr porto withthe market's Eiallest ans analog-output gyroscope Housed inside an ultra-small xx tein package, ST's newest gyroscope combines NEWS & NEW PRODUCTS superior performance and reliability with smart power management and design flexibility, advancing adoption of high precision gesture control and intuitive user interfaces in mobile phones, tablets, game controllers and other consumer devices. r All of ST's MEMS gyroscopes employ an industry-unique concept of a single sensing structure for motion measurement along all three orthogonal axes. This innovative design approach eliminates all interference between the axes, significantly increasing accuracy and reliability in a wide range of consumer and industrial applications. The company has introduced more than 40 gyroscopes over past two years ST'sL3G462A gyroscope provides accurate angularerate detection with a separate output for each of the three axes. The full scale of +625 dps accurately measures gestures and movements of different types and speeds, enabling applications from navigation to motion-activated user interface and gaming. The analogue interface ensures very fast response with low latency and ofers flexibility in external filtering capabilities and fine-tuning of key parameters to the individual application requirements ‘The gytoscope's extremely compact design eliminates the layout and placement issues common with existing bulkier solutions, without penalty in performance or reliability. The unparalleled stability over temperature (20.04 dps|*C) and sensitivity (#0.017%/°C) significantly improves measurement accuracy and the low noise level (0.017 dps/\Hz) guarantees elektor 05200NEWS & NEW PRODUCTS hhigh precision in movement and gesture recognition, ST’smewest Sais analog-output gyroscope ‘can operate with any supply voltage in the range of 2.4V to 3.6 and the powerdown and sleep-to-wake modes contribute to the reduction in power consumption ofthe entire system Volume production s scheduled for the end of 32011. (e270) west comjmems 60 V step-down LED driver drives three 100mA LED strings LEDs with 10,000:1 True Color PWM dimming Linear Technology announces the T3587, .260V, 1 MHz, step-down DC|DC converter designed to operate as a three channel, constant current LED driver. Each channel of the [T3597 contains a constant current sink LED driver with a dedicated adaptive ‘output buck converter. This design offers ‘maximum effciency for applications, such as RGB displays, which require different ‘output voltages foreach LED string. Froma 48 Vinput, the [T3597 can drive up to three strings of LEDs, eachwith upto ten 100 mA, LEDsin series delivering efficiencies of over ‘90%, The LT3597's multichannel capability makes it ideal for backlighting LED billboards as well as industrial, automotive and medical displays. Similarly, its input voltage range of 6 Vto 60 V makes it well suited for industrial, automotive and ‘medical applications. Each LED string can be independently programmed to deliver up to 100mA of LED current with = 2% current ‘matching between strings. Furthermore, ‘each channel can beindependently dimmed with True Color PWM dimming, offering dimming ratios as high as 10,000:1. A New LED lighting microsite for design engineers Farnell has launched an innovative microsite dedicated to LED lighting technology. The new Farell site provides engineers with a comprehensive LED lighting destination, offering product and solution-based guidance for applications such a5 street lighting MR16's, solar power signals and RGB colour mixing, as well as access ‘to a wide range of design and collaboration tools via clement14, its exclusive Community site for design ‘engineers In addition to application notes, white papers, training resources, design tool, and videos, the new LED site enables engineers to view and purchase from a best- in-class product portfolio available for same day shipping. Engineers have one stop access to a wide range of LED Lighting product including LEDs, Power & Thermal Management, Interconnect, Optics and integrated) modular LED Lighting solutions. The offering consists of LED Lighting product from top brands including Cree, Avago, Bridgelux, Lei, National Semiconductor, Linear Technology, Texas instruments, TE Connectivity, Molex Fisher and Bergquist. Engineers can quickly link from the microsite to the lighting group at Farnel's ‘element14 engineering community to collaborate with industry peers and experts clement 14's lighting group offers quick access to additional technical information, lighting insight from its “Ask an Expert” panel of professionals and lvely discussions with engineers from around the globe. (092700) vavfarel.comfghting programmable 200 kHz to IMHz fixed internal buck converters use an adaptive frequency operation and current-mode feedback loop to regulate the output architecture ensures stable operation voltage slightly higher than the required over a wide range of supply and output LED voltage to ensure maximum efficiency voltages, minimizing the size of external Ifany ofthe LED strings experience an open components. Additionally, the switching or short-circuit, the LT3597 will continue frequency is synchronizable to an external to regulate the other strings and signal clock. The LT3597's thermally enhanced the FAULT pin. Additional features include Ssmmx8mm QFN package provides highly LED current derating based on junction compact solution footprint forLED lighting temperature andjor LED temperature and applications LED disconnectin shutdown. ‘The 173597 uses three independent The LT3597EUHG is availabe in a 39-lead 400 mA, 60 V internal switches to provide Smmx'mm QFN package step-down constant current sources. The (n0370-X)__ wow nearcomproduct73557, 520m elektorQUASAR Semoctroecanins Deere ecard peed Stes reel retary eerie Dives any 538Vae 5, 80 ead unipolar stepper rote rat up fo 6 Amos. Provides spoed and ds on contol. Operates in siancalone or PC Ccontalled mode for CNC use. Connect Upto Sic 175 dover board o a single paral pot. Bosrd supply Vas, PCB: 0xsOmm. 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Suppliod wits box and Windows Sotare, ZIF Socket and USB lea not inches, ‘Resombled Order Code: AS31208 - £49.95, ‘Soe website for fll ange of PIC & ATMEL Programmers and development tools.TEST & MEASUREMENT electronics apps for _ tablets and smartphones? ‘Awide and rich variety of software tools is available for electronics development. These engineering aids are no longer confined to the PC: smartphones and tablet computers already have plenty of apps available for them too. So, we decided to find out what programs are available and how usable they are. By Christopher Rausch (Elektor Germany Editorial) PCbased software for designing and simulating electronic circuits is now ‘2 common weapon in the engineer's arsenal Readers will no doubt have heard of products such as Proteus and PSpice. Although these programs are capable of delivering very accurate simulation results [1], they are nevertheless often very expensive and require aPC. However, an internet search will reveal electronics applications not just for PCs, but also for smartphones and tablet computers; these ‘are usually much cheaper andin some cases 4 are even offered for free. The computing power now available in mobile devices is very high, and the devices are almost ‘exclusively operated using a touchscreen. We decided to find out what the apps are capable of and what features they offer the user. What opportunities (and what problems) does the touchscreen interface bring, and how restrictive are the relatively small displays? To answer these questions, we took a loser look at two apps for smartphones ‘and two for the Apple iad. Inthe case of the smartphones we decided to try the free Android operating system. This OS is very widely used and gives software developers more freedom than they have when developing for the iPhone, for example. Whereas Apple developers ‘cannot freely distribute their programs to run on real hardware without obtaining prior approval from the manufacturer, ‘Android developers face no such hurdles. Indeed, Android developers are not even forced touse the offical Android application market. For our tests we used the Windows “Android emulator (see text box) from the official Android SDK (software development ket) 2] ‘An overview of some other electronics applications, untested by us, appears inthe 520m elektorinset towards the end ofthis article. The selection of smartphone applications is, based on alist produced by Android expert Stefan Schwark. Development tools in your pocket The palette of electronics applications available for Android smartphones ranges from digital reference works and component value cakulatorsto software for drawing and simulating electronic circuits. Because of the relatively small display smartphone applications make much ‘greater demands on the user interface in terms of understandabilty and ease-of-use ‘Ontthe other hand, the applications make the ideal vademecum forthe engineer on the move. The first application that we will look at more closely is called Droid Tesla [3]. This software (Figure 1) isa circuit simulator, The user interface controls (which can be hidden) allow you to construct your circuit and then start the simulation. The simulator can currently cope with devices including resistors, capacitors, inductors and complex impedances as well as voltmeters and ammeters. Voltage and current sources are available to power the Circuit. Voltage and current are specified with real and imaginary components, hich is relatively unusual. Unfortunately the simulator does not provide a graphical display of its results: the values can only be read from the virtual voltmeters and ammeters. The way that various elements ‘ean be hidden on the display is convenient and saves space, though it can often be fiddly to connect components exactly as you want. The relatively small screen area available compared to 2 PC's monitor also makes it dificult to get a goad overview of large circuit. The majority of electronics applications for Android smartphones are calculators “and reference information for frequently- used components and circuit modules. The standard repertoire includes resistor colour-code decoders, calculators for ‘Ohm's law, potential dividers, resonant circuits and other basic elements of elektor_ 05200 Figure 1.A voltage divider in Droid Tesla electronic designs. The second application in our test belongs to this category and is ‘called ‘Electronica! [4] It includes a range of calculators, a colour-code decoder (Figure 2) and information about IC and connector pinouts. In terms ofthe number of diferent functions offered this program isone ofthe smallerones ofits kind, but itis ‘easy touse and quickly leads tothe required results, The individual tools can be selected using a category menu and are clearly laid out. Circuit design on the iPad The iPad is a tablet computer, like a smartphone with a somewhat larger (2.7 inch) display. Ibis almost exclusively ‘operated using its touchscreen. A wide range of electronics applications is also available for this device. The spectrum ranges from calculator applications and ‘component databases to circutsimulators. ‘Again we meet the question of how successful the touchscreen s as an intuitive interface for the application, and how TEST & MEASUREMENT Figure 2. Colourcode decoder in Electronica suitable the iPad software is for practical Use. For our test we selected two circuit simulators for the iPad. We managed to construct smal circuits with the help of the software; we also managed to call up pre+ loaded circuits and simulate them, with the results being displayed graphically The first application we will look at is Software Circuit Lab HD [5] (Figure 3). {As almost invariably with the iPad, the touchscreen is used to enter schematics. First it is necessary to tap the points between which the component is to be connected, Then the desired componentis selected froma menu and inserted into the schematic. Compared to a drag-and-drop approach, this methad takes some getting used to, The components avaiable include passives such as resistors, capacitors and inductors, as well as semiconductor devices such as diodes, operational amplifiers and bipolar transistors. The component library is thus more than adequate for small analogue circuits. DC and AC voltage and Figure 3. Transistor circuit on the iPad.TEST & MEASUREMENT ‘circu Lab HD: Thisis the companion application to Circuit ab HD fo digtal components According to the maker, combinatorial and sequential circuits canbe analysed ether step by steporinone go. (betpstes google comysiteluilfdcircuiobhd) Elektor Electronic Toolbox: This toolis alarge collection of electronic aids, including many caleuletors, converters, IC datasheets, circuit diagrams and pinout for connectors (swcektorcom/nenslelectronic toolbox forthe iphone 1412874 hn) ‘Ohm's Calculator. This isa simple application for performing calculations based on Ohm's law, special user interface simplifies entering the desired values. (betpsmartcheforgrantekin!) Scientific EletroniesCireult Calculator for iPad: This is acllection of calculators and formulae for the working electronics engineer Results are automaticaly recomputed wnenever 2 component values changed, so that results are obtained quickly. (etna sylabs.comyiruitalcPad htm!) Elec Ref This isa collection of calculator tools for ables, transformers and matos, along with information about various types of cable (twa trunnon inffeecref he) Electrical Witing Pro: This is acallectionof information and tals al relating to cables and ‘cabling. Acomplete feature lst canbe found on the maker's webste. (tp pwmcintinescomjelectrialsiring probe) me ” and2015 ‘Audio Test Tone Generator This application includes signal generator for sine tiene, square and satooth waves a well as arange of diferent types of nos, withboth graphical and suc output. (hte wmsdgitoontcs oublndridoud test tone gnertr) ElectroDroid: FlectroDroid includes 2 range of calculator tols and information (pinouts of various interface connectors fr electronics engineers (betpdemisoftakervist.org_sit_inteifeletrodroid)) 520m elektorTEST & MEASUREMENT ‘current sources are also available, both it gives the user the opportunity to controlable and fixed. Component values modify the circuit while the simulation is ‘ean be entered using the Pad's on-screen running and observe the effect of these keyboard, When the crcuitis complete the modifications onthe live plots produced by usercan startthe simulation and displaythe the program. Schematics ae constructed various currents and voltages around the using a drag-and-drop approach: the circuit either numerically or graphically. components are dragged from the menu. DC, AC and transient (evolution of currents to the right place inthe schematic using a and voltages over a specified time period) finger, and wired to one another ina similar simulation are available. When the software fashion. Component values can be entered presents results graphically, several curves either by using the on-screen keyboard ‘ean be overlaid on one graph. Sadly the of by using a slider (Figure 4). Changing ‘graphs are presented withoutsscaes, which 2 component value does not force the makes interpreting the results difficult and simulation to stop. which means that you Figure 4. Simulating a circuit using Circut. imprecise ‘can interact with the circuit almost lke a toy, giving the software an educational Simulation as a game feel. A wide range of components is diodes, bipolar transistors and field-effect Like the application described above, available including standard passives as transistors, A/D and D/A converters and iCireuit [6] i a circuit simulator. However, wellasswitches, semiconductors including simple logic devices. Visualisation of the J a4 ors & 140,000 Ted Japan IT Week exam ee mE ee nee Oru) COE rUnac SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT EXPO E==3 —_BIRECT MARKETING EXPO EXT BATA WAREHOUSE & CRM EXPO (ZEB = Web & MOBILE MARKETING EXPO [IIIT] EMBEDDED SYSTEMS EXPO EZ GREEN IT EXPO JAPAN GEES DATA STORAGE EXPO CLOUD COMPUTING EXPO JAPAN EETEEIIZuER INFORMATION SECURITY EXPO [SET] SMARTPHONE & MOBILE EXPO EIGN RFID SOLUTIONS EXPO EXE COL Lad elektor_ 05200 ”TEST & MEASUREMENT Internet Links [1] oweelektorcom100359 [2] tp develope: android com/guide|evelopingtoosemulstor html [2] tps]narket android com/detas?id-org vida doitesa [4] htpsnatet android. com/detastd-eom hacsfteleconica 15] htpstes google com)sitelnilfccitabha 15] tpcreutapp com) (7 htplideveloper android com/sdjindex tm! simulator results is via virtual oscilloscopes. These displays can be hidden and revealed as required. Its also possible to display ‘current magnitude and direction as well as charge disteibution on the wires in the schematic, Condusion Developing and simulating larger circuits ‘on smartphones is still rather dificult The main reason for this isthe relatively small sizeof the display on these mobile devices compared to a PC's monitor, which makes it very easy to lose sight of the overall structure of larger circuit. The functionality of the applications is also lacking in some respects, although itis ‘worth bearing in mind that in many cases the software is free. The smartghone is better suited to calculator and reference tools. The display is large enough for this kind of application, and itis possible to display all the necessary content in a ‘convenient and comprehensible way. The portability ofthe device is also a significant plus, making ta handy tool even when out and about. ‘The iPad applications we looked at are suitable for constructing and simulating ‘smal circuits, but do not offer the range ‘of functions that a professional electronics designer would find necessary. This applies both to the range of components that can be used and to the facilities for analysing tthe simulator output. But again, the application only costs a fraction of what ‘one might pay for a professional piece of PC-based software. The touchscreen is an intuitive interface, but sometimes lacks the precision needed to draw circuits and ‘to wire up components with confidence For school pupils, students and hobbyists, however, iCicuit is a good choice. The live simulation feature and the ability to visualise current flows within the circuit makes the software a good basis for experimenting and learning, (110230) ‘About the author Christopher Rauschis a master's student in Technology and Communications, specialising in electronic engineering, at WIM Aachen University. Hes currently ‘working a an intern withthe Elektor Germany editorial tear. Te Tiers The emulator forms pat ofthe Android software development. ket [7] andis able to simulate an Android smartphone on aPC. This isan excellent way for software developers taking theirs steps in Android device programming to try out ther programs quickly and easly without needing actual hardware. The user can install new applications on the system either by downloading them using presinsalled browser, or by using aconsole command and an ‘Android package (APK ile that has been previously-downloaded ‘orbult, To take the later route, the user must (under Windows) ‘open a DOS command window (command.exs) in addition tothe ‘emolator and then using the familar DOS commands (such as, ‘ed patho’ switch to the directory from which the Emulator was started, Installation is then carried out using the command adb install entered directly at the command window. The {ullpath tothe package files required as a parameter, including the “pk suffix. When installations complete the new program will be foundinthe applications menu of the emulated smartphone. 520m elektor