An AspenCore Publication

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

AI
page 12
IMPROVES
MEDICAL
IMAGING

Also in this issue: Smart Healthcare

How medical wearables are transforming healthcare p5
IoMT and NFC can revolutionize healthcare delivery p7
Designer’s guide: Sensors for medical applications p10
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 Vol. 65, No. 6 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 CONTENTS 1

9 17
EDITORIAL STAFF

Brett Brune . . Managing Global Editor, AspenCore

Gina Roos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Editor-in-Chief

Lori O’Toole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chief Copy Editor

F E AT U R E S

Pam Fuentes . . . . . . . . . . . . . Business Planning Analyst

5 Medical Wearables
How medical wearables are transforming healthcare
Jim Walsh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover Design

7 Internet of Medical Things

Lauren Heller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Production Designer IoMT and NFC can revolutionize healthcare delivery

10 Designer’s Guide: Sensors for Medical Applications

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12 COVER STORY AI in Medical Imaging

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14 Circuit Protection Devices
Top 10 circuit protection devices

TOUCH POINTS
Published by AspenCore

2 Viewpoint: The metamorphosis of smart healthcare

245 Main Street, 2nd Floor

3 Outlook (Technology News):

Cambridge, MA 02142 3 A sneak peek at next-generation ultrasound imaging
4 Will quantum sensors arrive by 2030?
Cyrus Krohn

18 Product Roundup: Capacitors and Resistors

Vice President, Publisher, AspenCore Space-saving capacitors and resistors

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2 VIEWPOINT
The metamorphosis of smart healthcare
H
ealthcare is undergoing a major transformation thanks
to new technological advances. Many of these tech-
nologies aim to revolutionize the way people access
healthcare and how healthcare professionals monitor and treat
chronic diseases. The internet of medical things (IoMT), near-
field communication (NFC), remote patient monitoring (RPM)
and artificial intelligence in medical imaging are all contribut-
ing to the next level of smart healthcare.
This month’s issue takes a look at some of these technologies—
IoMT, NFC, RPM and AI—and how they are contributing to
enhanced patient care. We also look at a few emerging technologies,
such as quantum sensors and piezoelectric micromachined ultra-
sound transducer (PMUT) arrays on glass (see page 3).
The IoMT encompasses a range of medical devices, sensors and
applications that are connected, including RPM systems, wearables
and health-monitoring apps. NFC tags are expected to become
an increasingly important part of the IoMT, and together, they
hold the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery to enhance
patient monitoring and therapy outcomes (see page 7), according
to Sylvia Kaiser-Kershaw, global senior principal marketing man-
ager for connectivity and security at NXP Semiconductors.
The IoMT is useful for collecting, analyzing and exchanging
health-related data in real time, Kaiser-Kershaw said, and NFC
tags with unique identifiers can be attached to or embedded into
medical monitoring and treatment devices, or attached to medi-
cation packaging for seamless communication and data exchange
between medical products, patients and healthcare providers,
supporting medication adherence and enabling pharmaceutical
companies to combat counterfeits and supply chain fraud.
Medical wearables are also making a big difference in patient
care, particularly for RPM. Over the past several years, we’ve
watched consumer wearables for health and fitness monitoring
that track daily steps and pulse rate morph into the medical
realm where atrial fibrillation can be detected and sleep pat-
terns monitored by collecting and analyzing data from sensors.
But the next level of transformation is happening in med-
ical wearables that enable RPM of acute and chronic diseases
(see page 5). Wider adoption of these devices started to take off
during the Covid-19 pandemic, giving healthcare professionals
a new way to monitor patients outside of the hospital environ-
ment. AI is playing a role in these devices, enabling the analysis
of more data for improved and faster diagnosis.
AI also enables improvements in medical imaging. The com-
bination of AI and medical imaging, including X-rays, magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT)
scans, are creating a revolutionary shift in the field of medical
diagnosis (see page 12), contributing writer Stefano Lovati said.
“Improving the precision and efficiency of image analysis is a
major focus of current research in both AI and medical imaging.”
A major development in medical imaging techniques is
the increased use of deep-learning algorithms, which can
sift through massive datasets in search of abnormalities and
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 • electronicproducts.com • ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
patterns, providing a higher degree of previously unavailable
accuracy, Lovati said. This improves diagnostic turnaround
time and opens the door for tailored medication, he added.
One of the significant changes for AI in medical imaging
is the implementation of edge computing, which can reduce
latency and enable real-time analysis, Lovati said. “This not only
improves the efficiency of healthcare delivery by speeding up the
diagnosis process, but it also paves the way for point-of-care AI
applications in which choices can be made immediately.”
A key component that plays a major role in medical applica-
tions is sensor technologies. “These devices serve as a funda-
mental component of electronic health systems that measure
and monitor diverse physiological data, such as blood sugar
levels, blood pressure and respiration rate,” Lovati said.
He covers the different types of sensors used in medical
applications and the key features that engineers should consider
in their designs, such as accuracy, reliability, power consump-
tion, biocompatibility, security and privacy (see page 10). He
also looks at key components used in medical sensor design.
There are also breakthroughs underway in sensing technolo-
gies. For example, quantum sensors can provide far more data than
today’s electrocardiography (ECG) and thus measure the heart’s
natural magnetic field while enabling simple measurements over
a longer period, reported Majeed Ahmad, editor-in-chief of EDN.
They can also be incorporated into items like clothing or mat-
tresses, which can speed up diagnosis in the emergency room and
provide easier and more accurate home monitoring, he said.
“As a result, the prospect of contactless early detection of
atrial fibrillation—one of the causes of life-threatening strokes,
heart failure and dementia—looks within reach for the first
time,” Ahmad said.
Don’t miss the roundup of space-saving capacitors and resistors
(see page 18). Board space is always at a premium, but for high-
reliability applications, size is not the only factor. Passive component
manufacturers also must consider performance and reliability.
IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK
We also look at the top 10 circuit protection devices
introduced in 2023 (see page 14). One of the biggest trends for
these protective devices is miniaturization, but they also need
to withstand harsh environmental conditions. ☐
Gina Roos
 Innovations impacting products, technology, and applications OUTLOOK 3

A sneak peek at
next-generation
ultrasound imaging
BY ERWIN HIJZEN, Director of the MEMS Ultrasound Figure 2: Schematic cross-sections of a PMUT process flow
Program, and EPIMITHEAS GEORGITZIKIS, R&D Project
Leader of the Listen2Future Project, imec include: (a) back-plane substrate with optional TFT and/or
www.imec-int.com flexible layer; (b) front-plane substrate with metal-insulator

T
metal stack; (c) bonding of front plane to back plane and
he use of sound waves for non-invasively visualizing a fetus removal of front-plane substrate; and (d) metal via interconnect
in the womb, via ultrasound imaging, is widely recognized. for electrical connection between front and back plane.
By emitting high-frequency sound waves into the body and
converting their echo into electrical signals, real-time images can be
constructed. Apart from medical imaging, these sound waves find of a crystalline silicon one, area restrictions were lifted. Additionally,
application in biometric identification and gesture recognition in this next-generation PMUT array exhibited 10× the acoustic pres-
automotive and virtual-reality applications and various other fields. sure compared with the previous generation.
Currently, ultrasound transducers are commonly produced Image acquisition up to 10-cm distance is shown in Figure 1
using silicon semiconductor facilities. For high-resolution with pressures above 7 kPa in water, making it suitable for high-
medical imaging with large-area coverage, large sensors are performing ultrasound imaging.
required, which is challenging for silicon-based sensors because The array, featuring an AlScN piezoelectric layer, achieves
of their high cost per square millimeter. impressive image acquisition and beam steering up to 10 cm in
water. This advancement paves the way for complex ultrasound
PMUT arrays for large-area imaging applications on curved surfaces, revolutionizing medical imag-
In 2021, imec introduced flat panel display (FPD)-compatible ing and monitoring.
piezoelectric micromachined ultrasound transducer (PMUT)
arrays on glass. As a result of moving from wafer-based to
FPD-compatible processes, cost-effective upscaling of ultra-
sound sensors was made possible.
More specifically, due to its compatibility with existing thin-
film transistor back planes and because this transducer tech-
nology is not hampered by wafer-size restrictions, large-area
processing capabilities with PMUT arrays were made possible.
However, the performance of the polymeric piezoelectric mate-
rial was not yet sufficient for high-quality medical imaging.
Now, imec has demonstrated a second-generation PMUT array
with another piezoelectrical material: aluminum scandium nitride
(AlScN). With the earlier implementation of a glass substrate instead

Figure 3: In the diagram outlining characteristics of PMUT

IMAGES: IMEC

elements, the inset shows a microscopy image of the fabricated

Figure 1: The second-generation PMUT array has been built with PMUT and a corresponding cross-section across the cavity.
piezoelectrical material AlScN.
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS • electronicproducts.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
4 OUTLOOK Innovations impacting products, technology, and applications

Prospects for flexible ultrasound imaging
Next steps include maturing the technology and tuning the device
to specific frequencies. In doing so, this technology will enable large
ultrasound arrays on, for instance, curved surfaces, such as sensors
for the human body or car dashboards, facilitating integration of
ultrasound functions on large, non-planar surfaces. As a result, excit-
ing opportunities for innovative ultrasound applications will emerge.
In collaboration with Pulsify Medical, imec has already
created a proof-of-concept rigid medical patch for cardiac
monitoring, paving the way for non-invasive and longitudinal
monitoring outside hospitals, without the need for a physician.
As a result, the collaboration brings non-invasive, physician-free
cardiac monitoring a step closer to reality.
As part of the Listen2Future project, further development
of a flexible ultrasound patch is ongoing. Listen2Future is an
EU-funded project addressing and benchmarking piezoelectric
acoustic transducers with 27 partners across seven countries,
coordinated by Infineon Technologies Austria AG. ☐
This article originally ran on EDN at tinyurl.com/36wpefkh.

Will quantum sensors arrive by 2030?

BY MAJEED AHMAD “Our goal is to miniaturize quantum
Editor-in-Chief, EDN sensors to the point where they can be
www.edn.com integrated onto a chip,” said Katrin Kobe,
responsible for sensor commercialization

Q
uantum technology—encom-
passing computing, commu-
nication, imaging and sen-
sors—is starting to become visible in the
commercial arena with the promise to
offer exceptional reliability and less vul-
nerability to signal jamming and other
electromagnetic-interference issues that
are increasingly common in today’s light-
and sound-based data sensors.
Case in point: Bosch has announced
plans to integrate quantum sensors onto
chips. The Stuttgart, Germany–based sen-
sor specialist has also developed a sensor
prototype that it claims is currently the
smallest, about the size of a cellphone.
Figure 1: The quantum sensor prototype is
the size of a cellphone.
Bosch, working on quantum technol-
ogies for nearly a decade, will work with
pilot customers in the medical and mobility
industries on specific applications over the
at Bosch Quantum Sensing.
Bosch estimates the annual global
market for quantum sensors serving
medical and mobility applications will
reach the mid-single-digit billions by the
middle of the next decade. The company
is also confident that quantum sensor
capabilities could lead to additional sens-
ing applications.
Medical and mobility applications
Quantum sensors can provide far more
data than today’s electrocardiography
(ECG) and thus measure the heart’s nat-
ural magnetic field while enabling simple
measurements over a longer period. An
ECG machine is applied directly to the
skin by using electrodes, but if electrodes
slip, measurements are inaccurate. Addi-
tionally, attaching the ECG machine uses
precious time in an emergency.
On the other hand, quantum sensors
can be incorporated into things like items
of clothing or mattresses. That speeds
up diagnosis in the emergency room
and makes monitoring at home easy
and precise. As a result, the prospect of
contactless early detection of atrial fibrilla-
tion—one of the causes of life-threatening
strokes, heart failure and dementia—looks
within reach for the first time.
Likewise, in mobility, quantum sensors
Figure 2: Medical and mobility applications
could offer quantum sensors early access to
commercial markets.
interference, quantum sensors are resis-
tant to external influences because they
work by measuring the earth’s unchanging
magnetic field. Next, quantum sensors
could be used to precisely measure the
magnetic field of the electric current in
electric vehicles and thus determine the
exact charge level of the battery.
Quantum sensors provide qualita-
tively new data about our world, which
in turn can be turned into valuable
information about our environment.
That premise now increasingly seems
within reach, as shown by the Bosch
announcement. But while quantum sen-
sors still require a lot of technological
advancements, their leap from research
to the commercial arena bodes well for
their future.
Bosch, in its announcement, has
made known its goal to acquire a leading
position in the quantum sensor market
by the end of the decade. ☐
IMAGES: BOSCH

next two years. As part of this undertaking, can facilitate ultra-precise navigation in
the German electronics firm established the air, on the road and on water. For This article originally ran on EDN at
Bosch Quantum Sensing in early 2022. navigation, while GPS is susceptible to tinyurl.com/49d74bt7.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 • electronicproducts.com • ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS

How medical wearables are
transforming healthcare
Medical wearables are changing the way healthcare professionals
monitor and treat patients for acute and chronic diseases.
BY GINA ROOS
Editor-in-Chief, Electronic Products
M
edical wearables are making a
significant difference in patient
care, enabling continuous
remote monitoring in the home. Over
the past several years, consumer wear-
ables for health and fitness monitoring
like Apple Watch and Fitbit have changed
the way people monitor their health,
from tracking how many steps they walk
daily to heart rate monitoring and, more
recently, atrial-fibrillation detection.
There have also been advances in sports
wearables that help athletes improve
their performance and monitor for inju-
ries, all done by collecting and analyzing
data from the sensors.
The next level of transformation in
healthcare is medical wearables that
enable the remote patient monitoring
(RPM) of acute and chronic diseases.
Since the Covid-19 pandemic, medical
wearables have experienced wider adop-
tion, providing healthcare professionals
with a new way to monitor patients
outside of the hospital environment.
The world of healthcare wearables was
popularized by the consumer movement
and has since progressed to more serious
uses of medical wearables, said Sam Liu,
vice president of marketing at Vivalink,
a digital healthcare solution provider.
“During the pandemic, a lot of uses had to
do with telehealth or remote patient mon-
itoring, and that was largely using teleme-
try or video conferencing combined with
certain types of medical wearables to start
collecting data about the patient.”
But those types of monitoring condi-
tions were still about maintaining health
and chronic condition monitoring, and
IMAGE: VIVALINK
now it has moved into more serious acute
monitoring, such as following a heart
attack, where a patient needs to be mon-
Medical Wearables
itored almost at a hospital-grade level, he
added. “That requires a different approach
to technology and uses of technologies.”
Hospital-grade wearables also require
some kind of regulatory control like the
FDA, and the devices themselves have to
be very optimized to a patient’s physiol-
ogy, Liu said. “For example, if you have a
wristwatch that can track your activity and
take a temperature reading, it is not going
to be hospital-grade because of location
and exposure to ambient temperatures.
Hospital-grade temperature monitoring
will have to be worn in a position on the
body, such as under the armpit, where you
can get an accurate measurement.”
The Vivalink temperature patch provides
medically precise readings for RPM.
Vivalink recently conducted a survey
of healthcare providers and found that
93% of respondents are using RPM
technologies across all cardiac rehab. The
company offers medical-grade connected
wearable technologies for RPM and con-
tinuous in-patient vital signs monitoring.
The survey also revealed that 68%
of clinicians have conducted some level
of home-based cardiac rehab, with 29%
conducting more or the same amount
of home-based versus clinic-based.
The biggest driver behind the trend is
post-myocardial infarction, otherwise
known as a heart attack, indicating the
importance of remote care in critical
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS • electronicproducts.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
FEATURE 5
cardiac condition monitoring, according
to the company.
Another recent Vivalink study showed a
rapid increase in acute RPM and
hospital-at-home programs. Eighty-one
percent of clinicians surveyed said that they
are currently using RPM for patients, com-
pared with 20% in the 2021 survey. In addi-
tion, 84% said they plan to increase their
usage in 2024 and 77% expect RPM-based
care will outpace traditional in-patient
hospital care within the next five years.
Liu said hospital-at-home is an
emerging RPM segment in which hospi-
tal providers are treating the home envi-
ronment as an extension of the hospital.
Cardiac is one of the top applications
driving it, but it can be for any kind of
serious or acute condition that requires
the clinicians to still monitor the patients
very carefully after being treated at the
hospital for an acute condition, he said.
Continuous monitoring and RPM
One of the biggest benefits that medical
wearables provide is the capability of
continuously monitoring a patient’s vital
signs, which were previously available
only in hospital and clinic environments.
The big trend now is hospital-at-home
applications, in which patients are mon-
itored remotely, in addition to chronic
disease management, particularly for
diabetes and cardiovascular diseases,
enabling early detection and treatment.
Medical wearables are also getting
more accurate and can be worn without
a charge for a longer length of time. One
example is Vivalink’s multi-parameter
wearable electrocardiogram (ECG) patch
with continuous 14-day live-stream
capabilities. The ECG patch extends the
duration for remote ECG monitoring with
a single application of the patch, and the
real-time streaming capabilities let clini-
cians remotely view a patient’s live ECG
anywhere and anytime, the company said.
Continuous ECG monitoring may
be needed after surgery and enables the
healthcare provider to monitor a patient
as if they were in the hospital or clinic to
quickly develop a treatment plan for any
abnormalities, such as arrhythmias.
Vivalink also offers a Biometrics Data
Platform, which accelerates the imple-
6 FEATURE
Vivalink’s wearable ECG patch can be used in the
hospital and in RPM applications.
mentation and time to market of RPM
solutions. It offers a turnkey end-to-end
solution comprised of a suite of wearable
sensors, edge-to-cloud integration and
advanced data management and analytics.
The software platform is interoperable with
mobile and web-enabled clinical applica-
tions, electronic health record systems and
clinical trial management systems.
A hardware and software approach
Medical wearable platforms entail a
range of technologies, including sensors,
AI algorithms, networking communica-
tions, data processing and cloud services.
They must also meet regulatory compli-
ance, such as the FDA in the U.S. and the
CE mark in Europe.
What are the biggest technology
enablers? Liu said there is a lot happening
in the areas of sensing and AI, and one
reason there is a lot of focus on the sensor
is that it is the data-collection point and it is
also tangible, so it is easier to relate to. But
it really should be about the data and what
is being derived from the data, he said.
The data-acquisition supply chain starts
with the sensors to data processing and then
the diagnosis or the therapeutics coming
out of that data analysis, he said. “It involves
hardware, software, AI, the cloud and
mobile technology—the entire spectrum of
technologies to really make it happen.”
Vivalink’s platform includes propri-
etary medical-grade hardware and algo-
rithms as well as networking technolo-
gies and cloud integration. Its software
development kits are application-
agnostic and allow customers to license
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 • electronicproducts.com • ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
Medical Wearables
algorithms for their specific applications.
The platform is comprised of
medical-grade wearables and an edge
gateway device, which can be a phone to
collect the data that is then transmitted to
the cloud, and software for data processing,
Liu said. There is also the clinician portal or
web portal, where a doctor or a nurse can
track and monitor the patient remotely.
Vivalink’s differentiator is that its
platform is uniquely designed for acute
RPM, where acute conditions need to
be continuously monitored for a specific
duration, such as 24 hours or 14 days,
with real-time monitoring.
For example, when a cardiac patient
is discharged from the hospital, the
clinician may want to monitor them for
the next 14 days after their surgery, Liu
said. In that timeframe, the clinician may
get alerts that there is something going
on and the doctor may want to see the
patient’s ECG right now and live, he said.
Liu also noted that data processing
happens at different levels. Because ECG
signals are very sensitive to noise and
movement, the processing starts with
software to smooth out the noise from
the ECG signals, so it transmits a cleaner
signal. Once the clean ECG signals are
transmitted to the cloud, they are ana-
lyzed for any kind of anomaly.
“Software is definitely playing an increas-
ing role in healthcare and is used through-
out the entire chain to make sure you have
clean data,” Liu said. “All the knowledge
for therapeutics and diagnosis comes from
processing the data through software.”
AI takes it to the next level, enabling
more information and analysis to be
derived from the wearables.
In addition, the Vivalink platform
allows any kind of digital healthcare
company to quickly develop and deploy
novel healthcare applications, typically
software applications, but they do need
to be able to integrate the hardware, the
network and the cloud, Liu said. That
is a lot of work to do themselves, so the
development kit enables them to focus
on their domain, whether it is cardiology,
diabetes or oncology, without worrying
about the intricacies of hardware, net-
working and the cloud, he added.
“If your company is trying to create a
novel healthcare application for wear-
ables, it is a challenge because you need
to have software expertise, hardware
expertise and networking expertise and
the cloud, so there is a lot of expertise
that you have to bring onto your team,”
Liu said. “You can think of our software
development kit or platform as the
Amazon Web Services for RPM.”
Partnerships advance bio-signal
monitoring
There is also a lot of collaboration in the
industry among material, component
and medical device manufacturers to
advance the diagnostic capabilities and
manufacturability of medical wearables
for better patient outcomes.
DuPont announced a collaboration
between DuPont Liveo Healthcare
Solutions and STMicroelectronics (ST)
to develop a smart wearable device con-
cept for remote bio-signal monitoring.
The DuPont Liveo Smart Biosensing
Patch prototype uses multifunctional
microsensors and control electronics
from ST embedded in a flexible patch
design from DuPont.
The prototype leverages ST’s accel-
erometer, vertical analog front end,
next-generation sensors with in-sensor
AI, a microcontroller with Bluetooth
module, ultra-low power management
devices, firmware and algorithm support
to create a board design that can analyze
electrical and mechanical heart activity
IMAGE: VIVALINK
in full synchronization to extract multi-
ple vital signs, ST said.
Continued on page 9
 Internet of Medical Things
IoMT and NFC
can revolutionize
healthcare delivery
New advances in NFC tag technology will
strengthen the IoMT, improving patient outcomes
via home-based care and data-led treatments.
BY SYLVIA KAISER-KERSHAW
Global Senior Principal Marketing Manager, Connectivity
& Security, NXP Semiconductors
www.nxp.com
C
hronic health conditions, such as diabetes, asthma and
arthritis, require the long-term use of medications,
which patients in their own homes often manage. Smart
connected medical devices can provide significant support for
improving patient self-care, both in terms of drug administra-
tion and authentication, as well as usage reminders and adher-
ence advice. Recent advancements in near-field communication
(NFC) tagging can revolutionize home-based care and data-led
treatments, improving outcomes for patients and supporting
their health over the long term.
The promise of networked medical devices
The internet of medical things (IoMT) refers to the network of
medical devices, sensors and applications that are connected
and interconnected through the internet. It encompasses vari-
ous technologies and devices, including wearable fitness track-
ers, remote patient-monitoring systems, smart medical devices
and health-monitoring apps. The IoMT is particularly useful
for collecting, analyzing and exchanging health-related data
in real time, allowing for improved patient self-care, remote
patient monitoring, personalized treatments and improved
decision-making by healthcare providers.
NFC tags will become an increasingly important part of
the IoMT. These small wireless devices with unique identifiers
can be attached to or embedded into medical monitoring and
treatment devices, and even attached onto medication pack-
aging, facilitating seamless communication and data exchange
between medical products, patients and healthcare providers.
The data storage capacity, reliable security features and aug-
mented functionalities like condition sensing of these advanced
IMAGE: NXP SEMICONDUCTORS
NFC tags ensure reliable real-time transmission of critical
health information. For instance, healthcare professionals can
instantly access a patient’s medication and treatment data,
drilling down to dosage levels and administration times. This
data is captured automatically via hospital equipment, such as
a smart infusion pump, which is connected to a network. In a
home setting, the patient’s smart injector, for example, interacts
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS • electronicproducts.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
FEATURE 7
Subject to the patient’s consent, medication-adherence data can be
securely stored in the cloud. This allows healthcare practitioners to
monitor the patient’s adherence history and offer tailored feedback.
with an NFC-enabled phone to transfer the data onward to a
physician’s cloud service.
Improving patient medication adherence
Advances in NFC technology can thus go a long way toward
addressing some of the most challenging issues in medical
care today, such as ensuring patients can better manage their
chronic health conditions. According to the World Health
Organization (WHO), patient adherence to long-term medica-
tion therapy in developed countries averages at about 50%, and
in developing countries, the rates are even lower.
Patients sometimes experience delays in filling their
prescriptions, face difficulties in comprehending proper
dosing instructions or can forget to take their medications at
designated times. The consequences of lapses in medication
adherence can lead to poor health outcomes for patients and
an increased burden on healthcare systems, but NFC tags now
have the potential to address this issue.
With a simple tap of a phone on an NFC-tagged product,
patients can quickly access documents and videos that pro-
vide valuable information, such as instructions on drug usage,
potential side effects and guidance on avoiding interactions. For
even better adherence, apps can also be made available to set up
reminders for their prescribed medicine doses.
Incorporating an NFC reader into a multi-use refillable drug
delivery device, such as an auto-injector or smart inhaler, can
also help patients with adherence. The reader automatically
authenticates the NFC tag attached to the drug consumable,
such as a syringe or cartridge, ensuring its authenticity from a
trusted source or viability based on the expiration date.
Following each usage, the reader records the action, while
the tag stores incremental counter values to protect against
reuse. The data can be synchronized to one’s phone app using
Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to track their adherence
history. With patient consent, their adherence history can be
shared with healthcare providers to facilitate comprehensive
care and personalized feedback.
8 FEATURE Internet of Medical Things
When connected to a drug delivery device like an auto-injector or inhaler, NFC tags can
contribute to improving medication adherence.
Advanced battery-free capacitive-sensing NFC technologies
can also detect fill levels and mechanical movements inside
devices. Smart injectable devices, such as syringes, can verify
the dosage level when tapped with an NFC phone and the
right app to ensure that the medication is taken correctly. This
technology could also check the fill level of medicines stored in
opaque packaging and send the patient a reminder to replenish
their prescriptions.
When NFC ICs are combined with processors and inte-
grated sensors, advanced functionalities like intelligent
temperature monitoring and logging become possible. This
technology allows an insulin injection pen, for example, to
indicate when a dose has reached room temperature, making
injections less painful.
Additionally, vials or their trays containing
temperature-sensitive drugs like insulin and vaccines can
generate detailed data logs, providing evidence that the drug
has been appropriately stored within the required temperature
range during the cold chain and remains viable. These logs can
prove invaluable in optimizing fulfillment processes by identi-
fying any systemic handling issues within the broader supply
chain or at the point of care.
Tackling the challenge of counterfeit drugs
There are other ways the IoMT is making a difference, notably
through ensuring the safety and authenticity of medication.
According to the WHO, approximately 10% of global medica-
tion sales consist of counterfeit drugs. Counterfeit medicines
can lack active ingredients, contain incorrect quantities or be
tainted with harmful “fillers,” such as chalk, mercury, paint and
poisons. These counterfeits can be found in illegal street mar-
kets, websites, legitimate pharmacies, clinics and even hospitals.
This is not only a developing world issue: In the U.S., there
are instances where counterfeit drugs infiltrate legitimate
supply chains, and approximately 1% of prescriptions filled at
traditional pharmacies are thought to be fake. However, most
substandard and falsified medicines in the U.S. are typically
acquired through online purchases. According to the National
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 • electronicproducts.com • ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
Association of Boards of Pharmacy, some
95% of websites offering prescription
drugs operate illegally.
Pharmaceutical companies have
employed various strategies to combat
the issue of drug counterfeiting, including
using item-level serialization and optical
codes like a data matrix or QR code.
However, these coding systems are static
and relatively easy to copy, making them
susceptible to counterfeiting.
While the data matrix system is
designed to ensure traceability throughout
the distribution supply chain until the
point of dispensation, it does not extend
to tracking the last step of reaching the
patient. Furthermore, optical codes lack
the functionality to serve as advanced “sensor platforms,” as they
are unable to respond to external events, such as tampering, or
accurately record changes in factors like fill level or temperature.
Locking down authentication with NFC technology
NFC is a particularly suitable technology for facilitating data
transfer between IoMT devices. Unlike other wireless tech-
nologies, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, NFC offers enhanced
security, as it requires the tag and the reader to be in close phys-
ical contact. About 3.4 billion NFC-enabled devices are in use
worldwide today, and about 2 billion of these are smartphones.
These devices can easily read NFC smart tags, and authentica-
tion can be carried out by anyone involved in an authentication
and tracking process.
Advanced NFC security tags, like those with a Secure
Unique NFC (SUN) authentication message, dynamically
change with each tap. This feature can enhance the ability of
pharmaceutical companies to combat counterfeits and supply
chain fraud. By including a unique ID, tap counter and status
value in the NFC message, protected by a cryptographic mes-
sage authentication code, only authentic tags can generate valid
SUN messages, ensuring reliable authentication to prevent mass
cloning and safeguarding against unauthorized alterations.
This streamlined authentication process allows all stakehold-
ers to verify product authenticity via a smartphone without the
need to download a specialized app. Patients can play an active
role in verifying their own medications, fostering a deeper sense
of confidence and engagement with their medication supplier.
They can access a multitude of other information as well, such as
on-demand dosage instructions, expiration dates, potential side
effects and digital tools to help manage their condition.
IMAGE: NXP SEMICONDUCTORS
NFC tags can also be assigned to a specific distributor and
location, providing traceability throughout the supply chain.
Some tags even offer mutual authentication using a cryp-
tographic key, restricting access to authorized readers or servers
and preventing unauthorized access or manipulation of tag data.
Electronically tamper-evident NFC conductive seals and
labels can be applied to drug packaging during manufacturing
 Internet of Medical Things FEATURE 9

Brand inspectors, pharmacists and consumers can verify product authenticity with their smartphones, allowing them to easily spot
counterfeit products.

to protect against unauthorized product opening. These seals
irreversibly write the “once opened” status into the tag memory
and transmit the information to the cloud when tapped with a
phone, providing a reliable indication of tampering.
Alternatively, capacitive tamper-proof tags detect changes
in capacitance, comparing them with pre-configured limits
when read with an NFC-enabled smartphone. If the limits are
exceeded, the “open” status is added to the SUN message. This
type of tamper detection is much more difficult for fraudsters
to replicate and is suitable for integration into physical forms,
such as bottle closures. Additionally, NFC tags with a capac-
itive structure can serve as passive sensing devices, detect-
ing changes in conditions like moisture or fill level without
needing a battery.
An NFC-enabled era of IoMT advancements
The combination of IoMT and NFC technology holds
immense potential for revolutionizing healthcare delivery,
enhancing patients’ monitoring and therapy outcomes, and
ultimately transforming the way healthcare is managed and
accessed globally.
By enabling authentication verification, tracking opening
status and facilitating safe handling, NFC-enabled security tags
offer pharmaceutical companies a valuable tool to safeguard
the supply chain and ensure the safe and efficient delivery of
drugs to patients. NFC technology also plays a significant role
in assisting patients with chronic conditions, utilizing advanced
NFC smart sensing tags and mobile or cloud applications to
support medication adherence and provide timely reminders
for prescription refills.
NFC solutions can also deliver personalized content and
useful services that are tailored to individual needs. This not
only adds value to pharmaceutical companies but also enhances
the overall experience and outcomes for patients. ☐

Medical wearables during musculoskeletal movement to pro-

Continued from page 6 vide information about the functionality,
The partnership has yielded a broad quality and quantity of the muscle. These
range of medical patch technologies, measurements, together with PIIXMED,
including DuPont Liveo Soft Skin Conduc- Dawako’s AI-powered platform, will help
tive Tape 1-3150, a silicone-based thermo- with the diagnosis of sarcopenia, clinical
set adhesive for sensing and transferring nutrition monitoring or physiological
electrical bio-signals, and Liveo Soft Skin performance in sports medicine. They can
IMAGES: NXP SEMICONDUCTORS (TOP); DUPONT (BOTTOM)

Adhesives. It has also resulted in a smart
biosensing patch technology toolbox for
remote ECG and SCG monitoring.
The Liveo Soft Skin Conductive
Tape technology can be used as a skin
electrode for bio-signal–monitoring
applications in single electrodes for
short-term monitoring and medical
wearable patches for long-term monitor-
ing of seven or more days.
FLEXcon Global, a developer of adhe-
sive coating and laminating, and Dawako
Medtech, a medical device company, are
DuPont Liveo Smart Biosensing Patch
concept
collaborating on the development of bio-
imaging systems. The WBS Patch and
WBS-US patch will be able to simulta-
neously acquire ultrasonic imaging and
bio-signals.
The patches will leverage FLEXcon’s
flexible adhesive, which will function as a
disposable electrode array that can be used
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS • electronicproducts.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
also be used in oncology to help with the
diagnosis of thyroid cancer.
Dawako said the patches provide
real-time, non-invasive and continuous
monitoring, which enhances diagnostic
accuracy to improve patient outcomes.
The patches use different advanced
flexible materials, including FLEXcon
OMNI-WAVE and FLEXcon dermaFLEX,
with different printing technologies to
configure Dawako’s medical-grade adhesive
patches in a simple and scalable way. The
formal launch is expected in early 2024. ☐
10 FEATURE
Designer’s guide: Sensors
for medical applications
Sensors play a foundational role
in advancing the performance of
medical devices that monitor and
measure health conditions to
improve a patient’s well-being.
BY STEFANO LOVATI
Contributing Writer
O
ver the past few years, there have
been remarkable breakthroughs
in the field of medical technology,
leading to a significant transformation in
patient care and diagnostic procedures. The
significance of sensors is seen in the contin-
ually evolving world of medical technology,
where these devices serve as a fundamental
component of electronic health systems that
measure and monitor diverse physiologi-
cal data, such as blood sugar levels, blood
pressure and respiration rate.
The field of medical applications neces-
sitates a significant degree of precision and
dependability. The design process requires
meticulous consideration of various ele-
ments, including sensor accuracy, response
time, battery consumption and compatibil-
ity with the human body. In addition, the
sensors must conform to rigorous require-
ments to guarantee the safety of patients and
compliance with regulations.
Types of sensors in medical applications
Depending on the specific capability they
implement, or the physical attribute they
measure, medical sensors can be grouped
into the following main classes:
• Electrochemical sensors: These sen-
sors are extensively used to measure
parameters like glucose levels and
blood gases. The functionality of
these sensors is based on the chemi-
cal reaction that occurs between the
target analyte and electrodes, resulting
in the generation of an electrical signal
that is directly proportional to the
concentration of the analyte. Electro-
chemical sensors are commonly used
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 • electronicproducts.com • ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
Designer’s Guide: Sensors for Medical Applications
in continuous glucose monitoring
(CGM) systems. They can detect
instantaneous glucose-level fluctu-
ations and warn users of imminent
hypo- or hyperglycemic events.
• Pressure sensors: They play a critical
role in several applications, such as
monitoring blood pressure and mea-
suring respiration rate. Catheter-based
pressure sensors for cardiovascular
monitoring and blood pressure cuffs
exemplify two distinct approaches to
measuring pressure—namely, invasive
and non-invasive methods, respec-
tively. The use of microelectromechan-
ical systems (MEMS) technology has
made substantial contributions toward
the reduction in size and performance
improvements of pressure sensors.
• Flow sensors: In devices involving
fluid dynamics, such as infusion
pumps, flow sensors are indispensable.
They ensure the precise and regulated
delivery of fluids, which contributes
to the safety and efficacy of medical
treatments. Mass airflow sensors are
primarily used in ventilation systems
and respiratory care, as well as other
medical applications that require high
accuracy, repeatability and excellent
signal-to-noise performance.
• Temperature sensors: Temperature
sensors in medical applications
encompass tasks like monitoring
body temperature and regulating
thermal therapy devices. In the
field of temperature measurement,
infrared sensors are frequently
employed for non-contact applica-
tions, whereas implantable devices
may use miniature thermocouples
or thermistors to monitor internal
temperatures.
• Optical sensors: These sensors
employ light to quantify diverse
physiological characteristics. Pulse
oximeters, for example, use optical
sensors to assess the oxygen satura-
tion levels in the bloodstream by the
analysis of light absorption at vari-
ous wavelengths. Optical sensors are
also used in identifying biomarkers
and monitoring tissue oxygenation.
Key sensor features
The success of a medical device heavily relies
on the quality and performance of the sen-
sors. Here are some of the key features that
engineers should consider in their design.
Accuracy and reliability
It is critical to ensure the precision
and dependability of medical sensors.
Protocols for calibration, rigorous testing
procedures and continuous monitoring
are fundamental aspects of sensor design.
It is necessary to implement strategies
for mitigating factors that could com-
promise accuracy, such as environmental
IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK
conditions and signal interference. For
example, blood glucose monitors for dia-
betic patients require sensors with a high
degree of precision to ensure the correct
insulin dosage.
 Designer’s Guide: Sensors for Medical Applications
In the case of wearables, thermal
self-heating needs to be managed, as
these devices are tiny and worn on the
body. This, in turn, can impact accuracy
in measuring vital signs like temperature,
heart rate and blood-oxygen saturation
(SpO2). To maintain accuracy over time,
medical sensors should have mechanisms
for easy and reliable calibration.
Power consumption
Medical sensors often operate in
resource-constrained environments,
requiring energy-efficient design and
miniaturization. Implantable and
wearable devices require low power
consumption, and miniaturization allows
for unobtrusive integration with medical
equipment and patient-worn devices.
Energy efficiency is essential for wearable
devices and remote monitoring systems.
Low-power sensors extend the battery life
of battery-operated medical devices.
Biocompatibility
Because many medical sensors are placed
near the human body, biocompatibility
is of the utmost importance. To prevent
unwanted reactions, the components used
in the building of sensors need to be made
of non-reactive and non-toxic materials.
This is a key consideration for wearable
technologies that are intended to maintain
a continuous touch with the skin.
Security and privacy
Because medical sensors produce sensi-
tive data about patients, it is necessary to
implement comprehensive data security
and privacy measures. Encryption tech-
niques, secure data transmission pro-
tocols and compliance with healthcare
data protection rules are all necessary for
designers to implement into their prod-
ucts to keep patient information from
being accessed inappropriately or stolen.
Key components in medical sensor design
While a medical device, comprised
of one or more sensors, may adopt an
architecture specifically tailored for
IMAGE: AMS OSRAM
the application, a range of components
is required in most of these designs,
including signal-conditioning circuits,
processors and wireless transceivers.
ams Osram’s AS708RB block diagram
Signal-conditioning circuit
The process of signal conditioning plays
a vital role in the amplification, filtra-
tion and processing of signals obtained
from various sensors. This is particularly
important in cases where sensor signals
are weak (small amplitude) or when
establishing connections with microcon-
trollers (MCUs) and other processors.
The proper functioning of obtained data
relies heavily on the presence of analog
front-end (AFE) circuits, which include
instrumentation amplifiers and filters.
These circuits are important in maintain-
ing the integrity of the data.
For example, in a CGM device, an AFE
is needed to interface with both the glu-
cose electrochemical sensor(s) and MCU
unit, usually provided with some sort of
wireless connectivity, on which dedicated
firmware is running. One example is the
MAX30131 from Analog Devices Inc.,
an ultra-low–power AFE IC designed to
interface with electrochemical sensors.
In addition to high accuracy and
precision, achieved through up to four
12-bit voltage DACs, up to four 16-bit
current ADCs and one 16-bit EIS ADC,
the MAX30131 features low current
absorption (3.5 μA), an SPI interface
and voltage monitoring for safety and
compliance in a small package.
For vital sign sensing, the ams Osram
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS • electronicproducts.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
FEATURE 11
AS7038RB provides a low-noise AFE for
electrocardiogram (ECG) signal acquisi-
tion and a low-noise optical front end for
blood-related measurement.
The AS7038RB uses algorithms to con-
vert photoplethysmography (PPG) and
ECG readings into digital high-resolution
manometry, heart rate variability, contin-
uous blood pressure and SpO2 values. In
addition, the detector provides interfaces
for measuring skin temperature and skin
resistivity using external sensors.
MCUs and processors
MCUs and processors serve as the central
processing units in medical equipment.
Signal processing, data storage and con-
nectivity with other devices or networks
are among the tasks that they undertake.
The selection of an MCU with adequate
processing capabilities, minimal power
consumption and the requisite interfaces
is essential to ensure the smooth func-
tioning of medical sensors.
Wireless transceivers
Enabling the real-time transfer of data and
facilitating remote monitoring, Bluetooth,
Wi-Fi and other wireless communication
modules enable the smooth integration of
healthcare systems, granting patients and
healthcare professionals immediate access to
vital data. ☐
12 COVER STORY
AI improves medical imaging
The use of advanced algorithms
in medical imaging will
help deliver more accurate,
individualized and effective
diagnostic and treatment
strategies.
BY STEFANO LOVATI
Contributing Writer
A
rtificial intelligence and medical
imaging have combined to
create a revolutionary shift in
the field of medical diagnosis. Medical
imaging techniques, such as X-rays,
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
and computed tomography (CT) scans,
are complemented and even super-
seded by AI.
In addition to improving diagnostic
turnaround time, this integration opens
previously inaccessible doors for tailored
medication. One major development is
the increased use of deep-learning algo-
rithms, which can sift through massive
datasets in search of abnormalities and
patterns, providing a higher degree of
previously unavailable accuracy.
Improving the precision and effi-
ciency of image analysis is a major focus
of current research in both AI and medi-
cal imaging. Radiomics is a new subfield
of medical imaging that promises to
revolutionize the way data is extracted
from medical images.
In the past, doctors relied on skilled
radiologists to spot abnormalities in
imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs and CT
scans. Diagnostic results are vulnerable
to human error and weariness. AI with
deep-learning capabilities can tirelessly
study massive datasets and detect minute
changes and irregularities that humans
might miss.
With radiomics, not only is the diag-
nosis process sped up, but the potential
for error is also reduced, leading to better
patient outcomes. It also aids in gaining
a more complete picture of a person’s
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 • electronicproducts.com • ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
AI in Medical Imaging
Figure 1: The Definium 656 HD X-ray system
health status. More precise and individu-
alized treatment plans will be impossible
to achieve without the capacity to extract
latent information from medical images.
The algorithms that interpret intricate
visual data are fundamental to AI in
medical imaging. Continuous efforts to
improve algorithmic precision, efficiency
and interpretability constitute a key trend
in this field. Convolutional neural net-
works (CNNs) have been instrumental in
image-recognition tasks, and their appli-
cation in medical imaging is becoming
more complex.
Transfer learning, a technique in
which pre-trained models are adapted
for specific tasks, is gaining popularity,
enabling the development of AI sys-
tems using relatively small quantities
of medical imaging data. As algorithms
become more refined, they improve diag-
nostic accuracy and help identify subtle
patterns and anomalies that may elude
human observation.
AI is not only being used to ana-
lyze and interpret images but also to
streamline medical imaging procedures.
Automating the scheduling of imaging
analyses and maximizing the efficiency of
imaging equipment are two key use cases
for AI algorithms.
GE HealthCare, a leading innovative
company in the field of medical tech-
nology and diagnostics, has developed
the Definium 656 HD, a fixed X-ray
system (Figure 1) that provides several
AI-based capabilities. Using 3D camera
technology, GE’s Intelligent Workflow
Suite is designed to produce more con-
sistent images and eliminate the need
for retakes.
The system incorporates Version 2.2
of GE’s Helix AI-based advanced
image-processing software, which
provides enhanced anatomic detail and
clarity regardless of dose, patient position-
ing, field of view or metal implants.
Siemens Healthineers AG, a pioneer
in healthcare innovation, has developed
several digital applications based on AI.
One technology is Deep Resolve, which
uses CNNs to speed up MRI scans (by as
much as 70% in the case of brain imag-
ing) thanks to AI.
The compromise between scan time,
resolution and picture noise defines
MRI quality. To improve one of these
factors, there likely will be a tradeoff.
Deep Resolve solves this challenge
IMAGE: GE HEALTHCARE
by enabling doctors to select a much
shorter scan time without sacrificing
picture quality by decreasing noise and
maintaining or improving resolution.
Deep Resolve utilizes the raw data from

Figure 2: Deep Resolve reduces an MRI scan of a knee from about 10 minutes to less than two
minutes.
the scanner to enhance the image using
AI algorithms during the early stages of
image reconstruction.
Patients who are anxious in MRI
scanners, such as young children, benefit
from shorter scan times. Figure 2 shows
how Deep Resolve can reduce an MRI
knee scan to less than two minutes,
compared with about 10 minutes with
conventional equipment.
AI-based medical project
Having the right medical imaging data-
sets is essential to ensure that AI and
data science algorithms remain objec-
tive, even with the best hardware and
software. Experts in the field of AI at
Harvard Medical School have launched
the Medical AI Data for All (MAIDA)
project to collect and disseminate med-
ical imaging datasets from all around
the world.
This exhaustive dataset of patient
radiology images will soon be available
to the research community thanks to
an international partnership initiative.
Addressing the limitations of exist-
IMAGES: SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS (TOP); TERASAKI INSTITUTE (BOTTOM)
ing data resources, MAIDA will be a
Figure 3: AI models help precisely detect Covid-19 and other lung diseases.
AI in Medical Imaging
carefully curated, de-identified, diverse
library of datasets containing perti-
nent clinical information and granular,
high-quality annotations. Relevant image
sets from 41 institutions in 17 countries
have already been contributed to this
collaborative effort.
The MAIDA project will initially
focus on chest X-rays, which are fre-
quently used in emergency rooms to rule
out pneumonia and other diseases. How-
ever, other clinical use cases included
in this program are endotracheal tube
(ET) assessments in neonatal and adult
intensive care units (ICUs). Incorrect
placement of the ET tube, relatively
frequent, can cause serious problems like
low blood oxygen levels, high CO2 levels
and a collapsed lung.
During the Covid-19 pandemic,
the Terasaki Institute for Biomedical
Innovation launched an AI-based project
to develop testing for fast and accurate
detection of Covid-19 infection. Tradi-
tionally, swab samples taken from the
nose or throat are tested using a process
called reverse-transcription polymerase
chain reaction (RT-PCR). Sampling
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS • electronicproducts.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
COVER STORY 13
mistakes, a low viral load and the meth-
od’s low sensitivity all contribute to the
potential for inaccurate results.
Lung images provide a complemen-
tary diagnostic tool for Covid-19. Chest
radiographs and CT scans can be used to
differentiate Covid-19 from other lung
injuries and to evaluate the extent to
which the lungs are affected by the virus.
Diagnostic capacities can be improved
when the images are combined with AI
models (Figure 3). Created using data
from 704 chest X-rays, the model was
confirmed with data from 1,597 addi-
tional cases, including healthy individ-
uals and patients with pneumonia and
Covid-19 obtained from other sources.
The model delivered excellent results in
classifying the diagnoses, according to
the Terasaki Institute.
Edge computing
Improvements in hardware have been
one of the driving forces for the con-
vergence of AI and medical imaging.
AI algorithms for image analysis
demand enormous amounts of com-
puting, requiring dedicated hardware,
such as FPGAs and microcontrollers,
to effectively manage the complexity
of deep-learning models. Constant
improvements to these hardware
components are increasing the effi-
ciency of image analysis and making
it possible to seamlessly incorporate
AI solutions into the medical imaging
infrastructure.
The implementation of edge com-
puting is a significant change for AI in
medical imaging. Traditional methods of
analyzing medical imaging data involved
sending massive datasets to a central
server, which presented problems with
latency and confidentiality.
To reduce latency and enable real-
time analysis, edge computing processes
data near its origin. In the field of
medical imaging, this entails embedding
AI algorithms within individual imag-
ing machines. This not only improves
the efficiency of healthcare delivery by
speeding up the diagnosis process, but
it also paves the way for point-of-care
AI applications in which choices can be
made immediately. ☐
14 FEATURE Circuit Protection Devices

Top 10 circuit protection devices

Manufacturers of circuit protection devices continue to miniaturize and extend performance as
designers look for space savings and improved protection.
BY GINA ROOS
Editor-in-Chief, Electronic Products

C
ircuit protection devices are safety components that
are used in every electronic device and system, rang-
ing from the smallest smartphones and wearables to
high-reliability applications like automotive and data centers to
protect them from failure due to surge events and electrostatic
discharge (ESD) strikes as well as overvoltage, overcurrent and
overtemperature conditions.
These small, protective devices include ESD protection
devices like transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diodes and
arrays, surge protectors, fuses and circuit breakers. Over the
past year, miniaturization continued to be a key trend, partic-
ularly for TVS diodes, driven by a range of end devices from
wearables to automotive interfaces.
Circuit protection manufacturers have also focused on AOS’s AOZ8S207BLS-01 TVS diode
enabling these protective devices to withstand the harshest
automotive, industrial and avionics applications. Here is a typically a design tradeoff in competing devices. The TVS diode
selection of 10 circuit protection devices, introduced in 2023, has an ultra-low capacitance of 0.3 pF (typical), which ensures
highlighting these trends. They are not in any particular order. signal integrity by not interfering with or impeding high-speed
data communication, the company said.
Ultra-small protectors for mobile and wearables Other features include high peak pulse current (10.5 A typ-
One space-saving bidirectional TVS diode is the ical) and low clamping voltage (5.3 V), which protect I/O ports
D3V3Z1BD2CSP from Diodes Incorporated. It is designed to and their sensitive electronics from transient voltages, reduc-
protect high-speed data ports from both ESD strikes and surge ing the risk of electrical overstress damage from things like
events. The new TVS diode targets I/O ports in high- frequent hot swapping. The D3V3Z1BD2CSP complies with the
performance computing hardware, smartphones, laptops, tab- IEC61000-4-2 immunity standard, providing ESD protection
lets, computers, displays and gaming consoles. against ±20-kV air and contact discharges.
Diodes said the D3V3Z1BD2CSP does not compromise The D3V3Z1BD2CSP can be used to protect I/O inter-
on either surge protection or low input capacitance, which is faces, such as USB Type-C, DisplayPort, HDMI and SD Card,

Diodes Inc.’s D3V3Z1BD2CSP TVS diode
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 • electronicproducts.com • ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
IMAGES: DIODES INC. (LEFT); ALPHA AND OMEGA SEMICONDUCTOR LTD. (RIGHT)
with high-speed data rates up to 20 Gbits/s. It is housed in a
compact, 0.6 × 0.3 × 0.3-mm DSN0603 WLCSP. In addition,
the TVS diode features a wide operating temperature range
of –55°C to 150°C for protection in challenging application
environments.
Targeting ESD protection of USB4 and Thunderbolt 4,
Alpha and Omega Semiconductor (AOS) has developed a
TVS diode with an ultra-low reverse working voltage. The new
AOZ8S207BLS-01 delivers low capacitance, a fast response time
and small packaging.
The AOZ8S207BLS-01 features an extremely low capacitance
of 0.15 pF and claims “superior” high-speed data-line protection
thanks to the company’s advanced Ultra-Low Breakdown Voltage
TVS platform and innovative packaging. A low breakdown volt-
age is essential for ESD protection devices, AOS said.
The company also reported the AOZ8S207BLS-01 can
provide a faster response time compared with conventional
 Circuit Protection Devices
Taiwan Semiconductor’s TESD
Series ESD protection devices
snapback devices, enabling
it to absorb ESD energy very
quickly to avoid damage to the IC
and surrounding components. Together,
the low capacitance, lower clamping voltage
and faster response during an ESD event enable the device to
protect the more ESD-sensitive chipsets.
The AOZ8S207BLS-01 is a single-channel device housed in
a 0.6 × 0.3-mm leadless SMD package, making it suitable for
USB Type-C connectors.
Taiwan Semiconductor’s latest ESD protection devices offer
protection up to ±30 kV, thanks to its proprietary bidirectional
clamping cell, in an ultra-small DFN0603 package. The new
TESD Series of single-channel ESD clamping diodes delivers
size and performance specifications for wearable applications.
The combination of their ultra-small size and ultra-low
capacitance also makes them suited for other ESD-sensitive
applications, including HDMI, display port and high-speed
video I/O; USB 3.0 and 3.1; industrial I/O (RS485); SATA and
eSATA; and RAID, NAS and SAN systems.
The protection devices are available in versions with 5-V
and 3.3-V (max.) operating voltages and provide protection in
compliance with IEC61000-4-2 (ESD) to ±20 kV (air/contact)
and IEC61000-4-5 (lightning) to 4.5 A (8/20 µs). The series also
offers a second 3.3-V model that increases these specs to
±30 kV and 8.2 A, respectively.
The 3.3-V TESDL3V3B23P1Q0 (17 pF) protects control
signal lines and power lines on the PCB, as well as serial and
parallel ports. Both the 3.3-V TESDH3V3B03P1Q0 (0.2 pF)
and 5-V TESDH5V0B03P1Q0 (0.2 pF) are suited for SATA/
IMAGES: TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR (TOP, LEFT); TDK CORP. (TOP, RIGHT); NEXPERIA (BOTTOM, RIGHT)
eSATA, PCI Express, USB3.1/3.0, USB Type-C and DisplayPort
interfaces. The devices are RoHS-compliant and halogen-free.
Aimed at USB-C ESD protection and housed in micro pack-
ages, TDK Electronics has launched a new series of compact
TVS diodes with very low parasitic capacitance values and
low clamping voltage required for high-speed USB-C ports,
operating at up to 40 Gbits/s with USB4 version 1. These TVS
diodes can also be used for other high-speed interfaces, such
as Thunderbolt, HDMI, Display Port, FireWire, DVI, SATA or
SWP/NFC. Typical applications include smartphones, tablets,
notebooks, wearables and network components.
With ultra-low clamping voltage and capacitance, the
B74111U0055M060 and B74121U0055M060 TVS diodes
feature maximum DC voltages of up to 5.5 V and capacitance
values of 0.48 pF and 0.65 pF at 1 MHz, respectively, so that
signal integrity is not compromised. They are suitable for
the conventional USB 2.0 data bus of USB-C (D+/D–). Their
clamping voltages are 3.9 V and 4.0 V, with an ITLP of 8 A.
Designed for high ESD discharge voltage of up to
15 kV, the TVS diodes are manufactured in compact
WLCSP 01005 and WLCSP 0201 packages and are extremely
flat, with heights of 100 µm and 150 µm, respectively, enabling
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS • electronicproducts.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
FEATURE 15
easy integration
into USB-C SiP
modules. The ESD
protection exceeds
standard require-
ments, according
to TDK.
Power lines
VBUS can be
used to transmit
a maximum of
100 W at voltages
TDK’s micro-packaged TVS diodes
of up to 20 V and
currents of 5 A, also requiring safe ESD protection. Within the
new TVS family, TDK’s general-purpose diodes include the
B74121G0160M060, which features a maximum working volt-
age of 16 V, and the B74121G0200M060, with a value of
20 V. Clamping voltages are rated at 23 V and 27 V, respectively,
at an ITLP of 8 A. They feature capacitance values of 6 pF and
5 pF, respectively, with high linearity and are rated for ESD con-
tact discharge voltages of 15 kV. They are also designed in the
compact WLCSP 0201 form factor with a height of 150 µm.
Protecting automotive electronics
A big growth area for ESD protection is automotive appli-
cations, particularly automotive infotainment with numer-
ous high-speed interfaces. Nexperia targets high-speed
data lines in interfaces like USB, HDMI, high-speed video
links and Ethernet in automotive infotainment applications
with its new ultra-low–capacitance ESD protection diodes.
The packaging options are designed to minimize the
impact on signal integrity.
Nexperia’s ESD protection diodes
The new devices include the PESD18VF1BLS-Q,
PESD24VF1BLS-Q, PESD30VF1BLS-Q and PESD32VF1BLS-Q
in the DFN1006BD-2 package, enabling optical inspection in
automotive production lines using side-wettable flanks. The
PESD18VF1BBL-Q, PESD24VF1BBL-Q and PESD30VF1BBL-Q
devices are also available in the DFN1006-2 package.
16 FEATURE Circuit Protection Devices
Nexperia said all variants are in leadless packages to
improve electrical performance and minimize their impact
on signal integrity. They offer ESD protection up to ±10 kV
according to IEC 61000-4-2, Level 4.
Nexperia’s latest AEC-Q101 automotive-qualified devices
offer ultra-low capacitance, as low as a typical 0.28 pF, along
with a higher standoff voltage of 18–32 V for placement closer
to the connector. They also claim “extremely deep snapback
behavior” and a low dynamic resistance of 0.8 Ω for improved
system-level robustness and clamping performance in high-
speed data interfaces. The ESD protection diodes are offered
with and without side-wettable flanks.
Also targeting automotive applications is Vishay
Intertechnology Inc.’s two-in-one protection device that com-
bines a rectifier and TVS in a small FlatPAK 5 × 6 package.
The company claims the integrated component is the indus-
try’s first standard rectifier and TVS two-in-one device for
automotive applications.
The Vishay General Semiconductor R3T2FPHM3 combines
a 3-A, 600-V standard rectifier with a 200-W TRANSZORB
TVS. The rectifier features a low forward-voltage drop of
0.86 V to reduce power losses and improve efficiency, while the
TVS offers a breakdown voltage of 27 V.
Vishay’s R3T2FPHM3
protection device
“By combining two different technologies in a single package,
the dual-chip solution saves PCB space, simplifies layouts and
lowers overall costs in these applications,” Vishay said. “When
paired in series with a standard TVS, the R3T2FPHM3 offers
designers a complete >24-V solution with a low clamping ratio.”
The protection device is suited for high-reliability automo-
tive applications, including secondary protection for sensor
units, distributed airbag modules and low-power DC/DC
converters in power distribution systems. It provides a wide
operating temperature range from –55°C to 175°C.
The R3T2FPHM3 is in compliance with IEC 61000-4-2, air dis-
charge and contact mode and UL 94 V-0 flammability rating for its
molding compound. It is also RoHS-compliant and halogen-free.
The device is available in an AEC-Q101–qualified version.
Littelfuse Inc. claimed the industry’s first release of
AEC-Q200–qualified fuses. These protection devices are
designed for the demanding circuit protection needs in com-
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 • electronicproducts.com • ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
Littelfuse’s AEC-Q200–qualified fuses
pact automotive electronics and EV applications.
The new automotive-grade portfolio includes a range of
thin-film fuses, Nano2 fuses, PICO fuses and cartridge fuses,
which are all certified to meet the AEC-Q200 Revision E
qualifications for fuses for long-term reliability of components
used in harsh automotive environments. Offering a wide range
of performance, reliability and component options, these fuses
offer high I2t values to ensure high inrush current withstand
capability and provide circuit protection against abnormal
overload and surge conditions.
The AEC-Q200–qualified fuses are suited for a wide range
of automotive electronics designs. They include on-board char-
gers, power distribution units, battery management systems,
ignition systems, infotainment and navigation, ADAS, radar
and eCall. They can also be used for sensing-line protection and
high-voltage DC/DC converters.
Innovations for high-reliability applications
Bourns Inc. has expanded its gas discharge tube (GDT) family
with new devices that deliver a higher level of voltage limiting
during fast-rising events. Claiming breakthrough overvoltage
surge arrestor performance, the Model GDT35 Series offers a IMAGES: VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY (LEFT); LITTELFUSE INC. (RIGHT)
significantly higher level of protection against voltage transients
caused by lightning or accidental contact with AC power lines,
resulting in a faster-responding component.
Bourns said it developed the next generation of GDTs with
improved impulse voltage protection and higher surge ratings
to meet increased market demand as susceptibility to surges
increased with smaller components, calling for smaller and
more effective overvoltage protection solutions.
The three-electrode GDTs are based on Bourns’s proprietary,
advanced computer simulation techniques, which led to a
lower-impulse sparkover component design that reduces
stress on downstream components, Bourns said. This enables
designers to select smaller and lower voltage-rated components,
reducing the bill-of-materials costs.
The key features of the GDT35 series are the high surge
 Circuit Protection Devices FEATURE 17

also allows for a telecom/diode bridge configuration.

The PTA03-3.3ULC is also compatible with IEC standards
61000-4-2 (ESD): ±15 kV (air), ±8 kV (contact); IEC 61000-4-4
(EFT): 40 A, 5/50 ns; and IEC 61000-4-5 (surge): 70 A, 8/20 µs.
It is also RoHS- and REACH-compliant.
The TVS hybrid array is housed in a molded JEDEC SO-8
package with an approximate weight of 70 mg. It has a flamma-
bility rating of UL 94V-0. The operating and storage tempera-
ture is –55°C to 150°C.
Designed for avionics and other harsh environmental
conditions, Schurter has introduced the FRM-A panel-mount
fuse holder with a DRM-A SMT fuse. This compact solution
measures <15 mm deep behind the panel.
Although the ultra-compact FRM-A fuse holder is originally
Bourns’s Model GDT35 Series GDTs designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions in the
avionics industry and is qualified for use up to 50,000 feet, its com-
ing, lower impulse breakdown and lower capacitance. These pact dimensions and high ingress protection rating of IP67 make it
devices also feature a unique coplanarity fit that enables the suited for use in any challenging environment, Schurter said.
devices to toggle in either direction until a three-point con-
tact is established. It is also reported to deliver “superior”
current-handling capability in a small, 5 × 7.2-mm form factor.
Also, the low capacitance (< 0.7 pF) and low insertion loss
make the devices suited for protecting industrial equipment
and high-speed information and communication technology
systems. Other key specs include a DC breakdown voltage
range of 75–600 V and an extended temperature range of –55°C
to 125°C to meet tough environmental conditions.
The GDT35 Series is UL-recognized and RoHS-compliant.
A GDT35 Design Kit for prototyping is available.
Designed for circuit protection in high-speed communica-
tion data-line applications like Ethernet, set-top boxes, xDSL,
T1/E1 line cards and ISDN, ProTek Devices’ latest TVS hybrid
array, the PTA03-3.3ULC, protects against ESD, electrical fast
transients (EFTs) and secondary electrical transient threats.
ProTek introduced its first hybrid circuit protection
devices with extended reliability and operational lifetimes in
IMAGES: BOURNS INC. (TOP, LEFT); PROTEK DEVICES (BOTTOM, LEFT); SCHURTER (RIGHT)

2022 as replacements for surface-mount metal oxide varistors Schurter’s FRM-A fuse holder and DRM-A SMT fuse
for household and industrial applications.
The high-power and low-capacitance PTA03-3.3ULC TVS The FRM-A has successfully passed vibration, shock and
hybrid array pro- salt mist tests according to NF C 20-7XX and IEC 60068-2-XX
vides low capaci- and is built to UL 4248-1 and CSA C22.2 No. 4248-1. The fuse
tance—max. 2.4 pF holder is developed exclusively for use with the SMT DRM-A
(I/O to I/O)—even ceramic fuse.
at higher tempera- The DRM-A is a fast-acting ceramic SMT fuse built accord-
tures and 2,000-W ing to UL 248-14 for avionics applications and uses gold plating
peak pulse power on the endcaps to prevent tin whiskers. It features a pre-arcing
per line (8/20 µs time rated for an altitude of 50,000 feet, but it is suitable for any
typical). It features application that requires a reliable and robust design. Rated
100 A (2/10 µs) per 0.5–8 A at 250 VAC and 125 VDC, the DRM-A meets similar
Bellcore GR1089 IEC environmental tests as the FRM-A, as well as additional
(intra-building) MIL-STD-202 tests.
and ESD protec- Used together or the fuse separately, the FRM-A and DRM-A
tion greater than devices can be used in a range of industrial markets, AV/IT appli-
30 kV, contact per cations according to IEC/UL 62368-1 and household appliances
IEC 61000-4-2. It ProTek’s TVS hybrid array according to IEC 60335-1. ☐
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS • electronicproducts.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
18 PRODUCT ROUNDUP
Space-saving capacitors and resistors
High-reliability applications
increasingly require smaller
capacitors and resistors, but
there is more to it than only
shrinking the package size.
BY GINA ROOS
Editor-in-Chief, Electronic Products
B
oard space is always at a premium,
especially when it comes to passive
components. However, designers
in high-reliability markets are looking for
more than just tiny devices; they also need
capacitors and resistors that can handle
higher operating temperatures and harsh
environmental conditions. These include
applications in automotive, avionics,
industrial and telecommunications.
In many cases, passive component
manufacturers are doing more than just
shrinking the package size. They are pack-
ing more performance in these tiny devices
while providing higher reliability. In many
cases, higher performance enables
designers to shrink their bill of materials.
For capacitors, this means higher
capacitance/voltage (C/V) ratings in the
same or smaller package sizes as well as
lowering the equivalent series resistance
(ESR) and equivalent series inductance
(ESL). For resistors, this often translates
into technological improvements to sim-
plify design and higher power ratings in
smaller packages, resulting in fewer com-
ponents in the design and lower costs.
Here is a selection of capacitors and
resistors introduced in 2023 that meet
the growing demand for smaller packag-
ing and higher performance in high-
reliability markets.
Smaller and higher-performance capacitors
Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd. recently
introduced the LLC series, claiming the
smallest and thinnest 1-µF LW reversed
multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC)
for automotive applications. The
automotive-grade MLCCs tout the
industry’s first 0.18-mm profile package
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 • electronicproducts.com • ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
Capacitors and Resistors
Murata’s LCC Series of LW reversed MLCCs
and feature a reversed termination for
low ESL.
In addition, the 1-µF capacitance in a
0.5 × 1.0-mm footprint makes the parts
the smallest in the market, Murata said.
The company attributes the smaller
size to Murata’s proprietary thin-layer
forming and high-precision lamina-
tion technology, in combination with
advanced material atomization and
homogenization techniques. The result
is about a 20% reduction in component
height compared with existing parts.
Murata said the smaller size allows the
capacitors to fit more easily on the backside
of circuit boards. It also allows the parts to
be placed in optimum positions for decou-
pling of processor power rails, close to the
die. This reduces the number of capacitors
required, thus saving cost and increasing
system reliability, the company said.
The MLCC series features low ESR
and a reduction in ESL, which is reported
to reduce the high-frequency impedance
of the capacitors. “This improves circuit
performance to meet the requirements of
modern, low-voltage, compute-intensive
applications, such as automotive advanced
driver-assistance systems,” Murata said.
The LLC series complies with
AEC-Q200 requirements. The operating
temperature range is –55°C to 125°C.
Even the traditionally larger alu-
minum electrolytic capacitors are
available in smaller case sizes without
compromising capacitance density. This
includes delivering higher C/V in the
same or smaller package sizes.
Vishay Intertechnology Inc.’s new
series of low-impedance automotive-grade
miniature aluminum electrolytic capacitors
delivers higher performance in smaller case
sizes than previous-generation solutions.
The Vishay BCcomponents 172 RLX series
features high ripple currents up to 4.9 A,
high-temperature operation to 105°C and
a useful life of up to 10,000 hours. They are
available in 14 case sizes, ranging from
10 × 12 mm to 18 × 40 mm.
The AEC-Q200–qualified capacitors
offer lower impedance and higher capaci-
tance for a given case size and voltage, as
well as up to 54% higher ripple current at
the same C/V rating in smaller case sizes,
IMAGES: MURATA MANUFACTURING CO. LTD. (TOP); VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY INC. (BOTTOM)
compared with previous solutions. The
benefits for designers translate into fewer
components needed, increased design
flexibility and board space savings.
Key specifications include rated
voltages up to 50 V, a capacitance value
range from 150 µF to 15,000 µF and low
impedance down to 0.011 Ω at 20°C. The
devices are charge- and discharge-proof
Vishay’s 172 RLX aluminum electrolytic
capacitors

and feature radial leads and a cylindri-
cal aluminum case with pressure relief,
insulated with a blue sleeve.
The polarized aluminum electrolytic
capacitors with a non-solid electrolyte
are suited for smoothing, filtering and
buffering in switch-mode power supplies,
DC/DC converters, motor drives and
control units for industrial, automotive,
telecommunications, audio-video and
electronic data-processing applications.
The devices are RoHS-compliant.
A new series of low-profile alumi-
num electrolytic capacitors from Cornell
Dubilier Electronics Inc. (CDE) saves
space and offers more options. The
Flatpack MLPS capacitors offer high
capacitance density in a flat configura-
tion, with voltage ratings up to 450 VDC.
They are rated for 10,000 hours at 105°C.
IMAGES: CORNELL DUBILIER ELECTRONICS INC. (LEFT); TDK CORP. (TOP, RIGHT); VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY INC. (BOTTOM, RIGHT)
CDE’s MLPS capacitors
One or two MLPS capacitors can
replace large banks of surface-mount
aluminum electrolytics or axial wet tan-
talum capacitors, which reduces space,
cost and weight, CDE said.
The capacitors offer a 120- to
51,000-µF capacitance range and a 7.5-
to 450-VDC voltage range. The operat-
ing temperature is –55°C to 105°C.
The Flatpack capacitors are used in
commercial and military aircraft, as well
as ground-based and shipboard radar.
Although most applications use either
85°C or 125°C rated components, CDE
said it developed the new 105°C devices
to provide greater design flexibility,
higher performance and lower cost in
Capacitors and Resistors
power supply designs.
“The use of higher-temperature com-
ponents than needed adds cost and size,
making them less efficient,” CDE said.
These aluminum electrolytic capaci-
tors are available in four sizes. All devices
have a thickness (height profile above the
board) of 0.6 inches and a width of
1.8 inches. Case lengths range from
1.5 to 3.0 inches. The larger case sizes are
typically rated for several amps (RMS),
according to the company.
“Ripple current ratings can be signifi-
cantly enhanced by adding one or more
heat sinks to their flat sides,” CDE said.
Unlike conventional electrolytics that
have a rolled cover, the MLPS covers
are laser-welded, which are reported to
provide near-hermetic seals that resist
electrolyte dry-out. They can be used at
high altitudes of up to 80,000 feet and
exhibit excellent capacitance retention at
low temperatures, according to CDE. The
MLPS capacitors offer a variety of lead
types and mounting options.
TDK Corp. has added the EPCOS
B43657 series with snap-in terminals to
its EPCOS aluminum electrolytic capaci-
tor family. These snap-in capacitors with
case sizes from 22 × 25 mm to
35 × 60 mm claim extremely high
capacitance density. They provide 20%
higher capacitance compared with their
predecessor.
A key feature of the B43657 series
is its high-ripple–current capability of
up to 8.54 A (120 Hz, 60°C), TDK said.
Accurate lifetime calculation under
application-specific conditions is avail-
able via TDK’s online AlCap Tool.
Key specifications include capacitance
values from 120 µF to 1,250 μF, rated
voltages from 450 VDC to 475 VDC
and a service life of at least 2,000 hours
at a maximum operating temperature of
105°C. Other features include a capaci-
tance tolerance of ±20% and an operat-
ing temperature range of –40°C to 105°C.
The high-C/V capacitors are housed
in an aluminum case with an insulated
PET sleeve without an insulation sheet
at the bottom of the can. Thanks to their
high reliability, the RoHS-compatible
capacitors can be used in high-end
switch-mode power supplies and power
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS • electronicproducts.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
PRODUCT ROUNDUP 19
TDK’s EPCOS B43657 series
supplies for industrial and telecommu-
nications applications. Other applica-
tions include UPS systems, photovoltaic
inverters and frequency converters.
More options for resistors
Vishay Intertechnology Inc. has devel-
oped a couple of space-saving power
resistors this year. The first one is the
Vishay MCB ISOA power resistor
with an optional NTC thermistor and
pre-applied thermal interface mate-
rial (PC-TIM), which saves space and
reduces cost.
Vishay’s ISOA power resistor
Designed for mounting on a heat
sink, the AEC-Q200–qualified thick-film
power resistor is housed in a low-profile
SOT-227 package. The optional NTC
thermistor for internal temperature mon-
itoring simplifies design and saves board
space, while the pre-applied PC-TIM
delivers more efficient mounting and
streamlined installation. The power
resistor also features high pulse-handling
capability and high power dissipation
up to 120 W at an 85°C bottom-case
temperature.
Key specifications include a resistance
range from 0.47 Ω to 1 MΩ, with toler-
ances of ±5% and ±10%; TCRs of
±100 ppm/K, ±150 ppm/K and
±300 ppm/K; a maximum operating volt-
age of 1,500 V; and dielectric strength of
20 PRODUCT ROUNDUP
4,000 Vrms. The operating temperature
range is –55°C to 150°C.
The RoHS-compliant device features
a non-inductive design and can include
two resistors, the company said.
The high power and high energy dis-
sipation of the resistors also help simplify
designs and lower costs by reducing the
need for power components. For appli-
cations subject to high and repetitive
pulse surges, the resistor can handle high
energy pulses (i.e., 110 J for 0.1 seconds)
and is multi-pulsed tested at 230 J for
670 ms and 3,000 cycles and 350 J for
1,060 ms and 5,000 cycles. Custom test-
ing options are available.
The resistor is built on an exposed
alumina substrate instead of a metal tab
and is used as a pre-charge, discharge,
active discharge or snubber resistor.
Applications include automotive and
industrial as well as avionics, military
and space (AMS) applications.
Another space and cost saver is the
improved Vishay Draloric RCS0805 e3
anti-surge thick-film power resistor in
the 0805 case size with a higher power
rating of 0.5 W. Applications include
automotive, industrial, telecommunica-
tions and medical.
This AEC-Q200–qualified device
lowers component count and placement
costs. Case in point: With its increased
power rating, the RCS0805 e3 can now
be used in place of four standard par-
allel resistors in the 0805 case size, two
parallel devices in the larger 1206 or one
resistor in the 1210 case size, Vishay said.
The resistor also offers “superior”
pulse-load performance and
electrostatic-discharge surge characteris-
tics when compared with standard chip
resistors for applications that are subject
to high and repetitive surge pulses,
according to Vishay.
Vishay’s RCS0805 e3 power resistor
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 • electronicproducts.com • ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
Capacitors and Resistors
KOA Speer’s UR73VH2B current-sense resistor
Key features include a resistance chip resistors with miniature packages,
range from 1 Ω to 10 MΩ—and 0-Ω now offering 1210, 2010 and 2512 sizes.
jumper—with tolerances of ±0.5%, ±1% These thin-film, precision chip resistors
and ±5% and TCRs of ±100 ppm/K and can be used in applications like automo-
±200 ppm/K. The resistor offers an oper- tive, industrial and lighting that require
ating voltage of 150 V and an operating anti-sulfur performance, replacing many
IMAGES: VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY INC. (BOTTOM, LEFT); KOA SPEER ELECTRONICS (TOP); STACKPOLE ELECTRONICS INC. (BOTTOM, RIGHT)
temperature range of –55°C to 155°C. thick-film resistors that aren’t suitable for
The power resistors are RoHS-compliant this application.
and halogen-free.
Packing more power in a smaller pack-
age size, KOA Speer Electronics recently
introduced the UR73VH2B current-sense
resistor for automotive applications. The
AEC-Q200 resistor offers a higher power
rating of 1 W in a smaller 1206 package
size and extends the resistance range for
the UR73VHB resistors.
Key specifications include a resis-
tance range of 100 mΩ to 1 Ω, a TCR of
±100 ppm/°C and a standard tolerance
of ±1%. The resistor also offers a wide
operating temperature range of –55°C
to 155°C, with a rated terminal tem- Stackpole’s RNCP chip resistor series
perature of 125°C.
Delivering low resistance, high accu- The RNCP chip resistor series
racy, high reliability and current detec- features high precision with tolerances
tion, the UR73VH2B resistors are suited down to 0.1% and TCR as low as
for automotive, industrial, telecommuni- 10 ppm, as well as anti-sulfur capabil-
cation and consumer electronics markets ity with shifts of less than 2% under
in a range of applications, including industry-standard EIA-977 testing,
electronic control units, small motors, according to Stackpole.
displays, monitors, DC-to-DC conversion Unlike thick-film resistors, the RNCP
and AC adaptors, power supplies, note- series does not require a lead-containing
book PCs, cellphones and motor circuits. dielectric glass, providing an RoHS-
Stackpole Electronics Inc. has compliant solution without exemptions,
expanded its RNCP series of anti-sulfur the company said. ☐
 Power NEW PRODUCTS 21

725-V silicon, 1,700-V SiC and PowiGaN in 750-V, 900-V

Power Integrations unveils 1,250-V GaN
switcher IC
Power Integrations has expanded its InnoSwitch family of
offline CV/CC QR flyback switcher ICs, featuring a 1,250-V
PowiGaN switch. Claimed as the industry’s highest-
voltage, single-switch gallium nitride power supply IC,
the InnoSwitch3-EP 1,250-V GaN switcher IC extends the
efficiency of GaN to a wider range of applications, many of
which are now served using silicon carbide technology.
The InnoSwitch family of flyback switcher ICs feature
synchronous rectification and FluxLink safety-isolated feed-
back. The family also offers several switch options including
and now 1,250-V versions.
Switching losses for the 1,250-V PowiGaN technology
are less than a third of silicon devices at the same voltage.
This delivers power-conversion efficiency as high as 93% for
highly compact flyback power supplies that can deliver up to
85 W without a heat sink.
Designers using the new 1,250-V GaN switcher IC can
specify an operating peak voltage of 1,000 V, enabling
industry-standard 80% derating from the 1,250-V absolute
maximum. This delivers headroom for industrial applica-
tions and meets challenging power grid environments.
Power Integrations also offers a reference design
(DER-1025) for a 60-W isolated flyback adapter that
targets general use in appliances or industrial applications
using a 1,250-V InnoSwitch3-EP PowiGaN switcher IC
(INN3629C-H606). It is available for free download.
Pricing for the InnoSwitch3-EP 1,250-V switcher IC
in the INSOP-24D package starts at $3.00 in quantities of
10,000. Samples are available, and lead time for volume
shipments is 16 weeks.
Power Integrations: www.power.com

Miniature AC/DC power modules offer up to 40 W

XP Power has introduced a family of
single-output AC/DC power mod-
ules with power ratings from 3 W to
40 W. Offering easy integration into
body-floating applications, these power
modules can be used in applications
like medical/surgical equipment,
patient treatment/monitoring and
dental equipment.
The PC-mountable MCE family
is comprised of four series (MCE03,
MCE10, MCE20 and MCE40) that
provide 3 W, 10 W, 20 W and 40 W of
power. The power modules’ universal
input range of 80 to 264 VAC allows
them to operate globally. There are
seven models in each series, for a total
of 28 devices, with a range of single
outputs from 3.3 VDC to 48 VDC (3.3,
5, 9, 12, 15, 24 and 48).
All units are specifically designed for
medical applications and meet world-
wide medical approvals, including IEC/
EN60601, EN61000-4-x for EMC immu-
nity and EN55011 Class B (conducted
and radiated) for EMC emissions. All
units offer 2 × means of patient pro-
tection (MOPP) isolation and Class II
construction with no earth connection.
Other key specs include
4 kVAC of input-to-output
isolation with an IEC Class
II insulation rating, up to
88% efficiency and an oper-
ating ambient temperature
range of –25°C to 70°C, as
well as standard overload,
overvoltage and short-
circuit protection. No-load
input power on all units
is only 0.3 W, XP Power
said, making them suited
for applications in which a
standby feature is needed.
The modules are avail-
able either fully encapsu-
lated in a compact housing
or open frame. The largest
module, the encapsulated
MCE40, measures
3.46 × 1.50 × 1.12 inches
(87.9 × 38.1 × 28.5 mm),
while the unencapsulated
MCE03 is housed in a 1.50 × 0.65 × 0.65- They are available from XP Power and
inch (38.1 × 16.5 × 16.5-mm) footprint. its authorized distributors Allied
The MCE40 series is priced from Electronics, Digi-Key, Mouser, Newark
$20.77 for 500+ units. All four MCE and TRC Electronics.
series come with a three-year warranty. XP Power: www.xppower.com

ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS • electronicproducts.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

22 NEW PRODUCTS Medical
Medical buzzers meet alarm signal requirements
CUI Devices’ Audio Group has released a new line of medical
buzzers that comply with the alarm signal requirements of IEC
60601-1-8. The CPIM family is a range of piezo audio indicator
buzzers that can produce low-, medium- and high-priority
tones for general medical use
as well as tones for
specific medical
applications,
including ventila-
tor, oxygen and
cardiovascular
equipment.
Key features include built-in driving circuits, rated volt-
ages of 5 VDC, sound pressure levels of 90 dB at 10 cm, rated
frequencies of 4,000 Hz and an operating temperature range
from –30°C to 85°C. The models are housed in through-hole
packages with 44-mm diameters and 10.25-mm profiles.
Four part numbers are available: CPIM-4410-80C (cardio-
vascular tone), CPIM-4410-80T (general tone), CPIM-4410-80V
(ventilation tone) and CPIM-4410-80Y (oxygen tone). Tones
include silence (standby mode), low-priority alarm signal (two
beeps repeat every 20 seconds), medium-priority alarm signal
(three beeps repeat every 10 seconds) and high-priority alarm
signal (10 beeps repeat every three seconds).
The CPIM medical buzzers are available now with prices
starting at $11.73 each at 250 pieces through distribution.
Please contact CUI Devices for OEM pricing. Lead time is from
stock to 10 weeks.
CUI Devices: www.cuidevices.com
Plastic enclosures target medical electronics
OKW Enclosures Inc. has expanded its MEDITEC line of plas-
tic enclosures for desktop, portable and wall-mount electronics.
Targeting medical electronics, the enclosure line is now avail-
able in two versions and four plan sizes. They can be specified
as separate components for individual configurations.
OKW said the MEDITEC line is designed primarily for
high-quality, high-value healthcare and laboratory electronics.
It is also suited for feedback control, test and measurement,
communications and network technology, data collection,
control peripherals, modems and interfaces.
For robustness, the enclosures feature strengthening ribs at
the top and base of the units. They come with clip-in side trims
with or without ventilation to hide the fixing screws. Screw
pillars are inside the enclosures for installing PCBs and compo-
nents. Four screw-on, non-slip feet are included for stability in
desktop applications.
In addition, the enclosures are easy to assemble and can be
specified with or without a bail arm (accessory) that doubles as
a desk stand. This can be adjusted in increments of 30°.
The MEDITEC line is molded from ABS (UL 94 HB). The
standard color is off-white (RAL 9002) with either lagoon green or
case-colored side trims. Custom colors are available on request.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 • electronicproducts.com • ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
The enclosures are available in four plan sizes, from
6.30 × 7.87 inches to 11.42 × 10.24 inches, in accordance with
double and extended Eurocard-sized PCBs. The two standard
heights are 2.88 inches and 4.82 inches. Optional side panels
add 1.95 inches.
Accessories include a sloping control panel, which creates a
desktop reading angle of 30° or a wall reading angle of 60°, and
an infill panel, which is needed for 4.82-inch–high cases with
a sloping panel and allows for the mounting of connectors for
probes and data cables. Other accessories include wall-
mounting brackets, side-panel connectors, stacking elements
for securing several devices and PCB mounting screws.
The MEDITEC enclosures are customizable. Services
include CNC machining, lacquering, printing, laser marking,
special materials, RFI/EMI shielding and installation/
assembly of accessories.
OKW Enclosures Inc.: www.okwenclosures.com
Image signal processor targets medical
endoscopes
Omnivision has expanded its OVMed
family with the introduction of
the OH0131 image signal pro-
cessor (ISP) for reusable
and disposable endoscopes
connected to handheld tablet
consoles or camera control
units (CCUs). The ISP supports
Omnivision’s medical image sensors,
up to 2-MP resolution, including the OCHTA, OVM6946,
OCHFA, OCHSA and OCH2B.
By providing the medical-grade image sensors with wafer-
level optics along with the cable and ISP from one vendor, it
simplifies the supply chain for medical OEMs, Omnivision said.
The OH0131 ISP is based on an ASIC system-on-chip (SoC)
for high image quality and high reliability as well as cost-
effectiveness. It supports Omnivision’s proprietary AntLinx
CMOS chip-on-tip endoscopy imaging interface and MIPI
interfaces. It can integrate with any MIPI-input post-processing
board by an SoC, FPGA or x86 platform to build custom CCUs
or handheld tablet consoles.
Omnivision said the OH0131 kernel features the latest state-of-
the-art image pre-processing algorithms that support brightness,
contrast, saturation, sharpness, hue, white balance and gamma
adjustment with advanced noise reduction. Post-processing per-
formed by a third-party partner using an SoC or FPGA can target
features like LED drivers, patient isolation, high dynamic range,
image rotation, image mask/onscreen display, H.264 compression,
high-definition multimedia interface and Wi-Fi output.
The OVMed OH0131 image signal processor is available
now. The ISP will undergo IEC 60601 EMC and EMI pre-scan
testing. The miniature board measures 63 × 51 mm.
Omnivision: www.ovt.com