Category: Uncategorized

  • Allegro ACS3704x: Smarter Current Sensing for Industrial Automation

    In industrial automation, precision isn’t optional—it’s essential. From controlling high-speed motors to managing energy flow across complex systems, accurate current measurement keeps everything running safely and efficiently. Traditional solutions have done the job for years, but today’s factories demand more. That’s where Allegro’s ACS3704x magnetic current sensors step in, delivering a smarter and safer way to measure current in tough environments.

    The Limits of Traditional Current Sensing

    For decades, engineers relied on shunt resistors paired with isolation amplifiers. While proven, these setups come with drawbacks:

    • Energy loss & heat – High ohmic shunts waste power and generate heat.
    • Limited bandwidth – Not ideal for high-frequency applications like motor drives.
    • Complex design – Adding galvanic isolation and heat management increases cost and complexity.

    As automation pushes for higher efficiency and accuracy, these limitations become bottlenecks.

    Allegro’s Smarter Current-Sensing Solution: ACS3704x Series

    The ACS3704x series from Allegro offers a smarter, more efficient approach to current sensing using advanced Hall-effect technology. Unlike traditional solutions, it can sense the magnetic field around a conductor without breaking the circuit or adding bulky, power-hungry components. This innovative design delivers galvanic isolation for safe separation between high-voltage systems and low-voltage electronics, high-speed performance up to 150 kHz for fast-switching motor drives and power converters, and energy-efficient operation with integrated conductors as low as 1.6 mΊ to minimize power loss. Housed in compact, rugged packages, the ACS3704x series is built to withstand harsh industrial and automotive environments, making it the ideal choice for reliable, precise, and efficient current sensing in modern electronics.

    Designed for Modern Engineers

    The ACS3704x magnetic current sensors provide analog voltage outputs directly proportional to current, eliminating external shunts. Differential sensing improves immunity to external magnetic noise, while evaluation boards like the Allegro ACSEVB-LH5 Bare and the MIKROE-6632 add-on module make testing easy.

    Key specs include:

    • Bidirectional sensing up to 30A
    • 150kHz analog output for precision in dynamic applications
    • Compact SOT23-W package, UL-certified for safety

    These features make the ACS3704x a strong fit for motor control, battery management, and high-voltage power supplies.

  • Bluetooth 6.0 Channel Sounding: The Next Big Leap in Indoor Positioning

    Imagine walking up to your car and having it unlock only when you are exactly close enough. Or a hospital that can instantly locate critical medical equipment down to the centimeter. Or a warehouse where assets are mapped and tracked in real time. These aren’t futuristic visions anymore. They’re powered by Bluetooth 6.0 Channel Sounding (CS), the latest evolution of the world’s most widely adopted short-range wireless technology.

    While UWB (Ultra-Wideband) has dominated headlines for its centimeter-level accuracy and robust security, Bluetooth has something new up its sleeve. By introducing channel sounding, Bluetooth is closing the gap by unlocking true fine-ranging capability without the need for additional radios.

    What Exactly Is Channel Sounding?

    At its core, Bluetooth CS is about measuring distance with far more precision than older BLE techniques like RSSI or even Direction Finding. Instead of just estimating proximity, CS employs two methods together:

    • Phase-Based Ranging (PBR): Calculates distance by analyzing the phase difference between transmitted and received signals.
    • Round-Trip Time (RTT): Measures the signal’s time of flight, i.e., how long it takes to travel between devices.

    When combined, PBR and RTT deliver centimeter-level distance accuracy—turning Bluetooth from “close enough” into “pinpoint precise.” Devices can measure ranges up to 150 meters, using between one and four antennas per side depending on the accuracy and power trade-offs required.

    Security First: Why CS Is Harder to Fool

    Location accuracy is only half the story, security is the other. Bluetooth CS incorporates a series of safeguards against relay and man-in-the-middle attacks:

    • DRBG (Distributed Random Bit Generator) randomizes channel usage.
    • Data encryption ensures exchanged ranging information can’t be manipulated.
    • NADM (Normalized Attack Detector Metric) helps detect suspicious inconsistencies.
    • And finally, cross-checking PBR and RTT results makes spoofing far harder.

    This matters most for proximity-based systems like smart locks, keyless car entry, or access control, where attackers might try to trick a lock into thinking you’re nearby. With CS, those attacks become exponentially more difficult.

    Why It’s a Game-Changer for Developers

    Unlike UWB, which often requires dedicated hardware, Bluetooth CS is built into the devices people already carry—smartphones, laptops, tablets. That means developers can launch location-based services without adding new radios, reducing cost and speeding up adoption.

    Applications split into two main categories:

    1. Localization & “Find My” services: Track personal items, warehouse assets, or medical equipment in real time.
    2. Proximity Awareness: Enable smarter, safer access control for vehicles, homes, and industrial systems.

    But it doesn’t stop there. From geofencing and human-machine interfaces (HMI) to smart home automation, CS unlocks richer context awareness in everyday interactions.

    Bluetooth 6.0 Ecosystem: Already Taking Shape

    Released in September 2024, Bluetooth 6.0 brings CS as an optional—but highly anticipated—feature. Major semiconductor players are already on board:

    • Nordic Semiconductor’s nRF54L15 SoCs are its first with CS support, paired with qualified host/controller software in the Nordic SDK.
    • NXP’s MCX W72 and KW47 families will target industrial IoT and automotive, with tool support from the MCUXpresso Developer Experience.

    And because CS is now a standardized Bluetooth feature, devices will be interoperable through Bluetooth’s qualification program. Developers can trust their solutions will work across platforms.

    Practical Notes for Designers

    There are still some choices and trade-offs:

    • Optional feature: Not every Bluetooth 6.0 device will support CS (at least initially).
    • Antenna count vs. power: More antennas mean higher accuracy but greater energy consumption.
    • Distance calculation: While the framework is standardized, developers must implement or adapt algorithms themselves—though only one device in a pair needs to handle the computation.

    For guidance, engineers can turn to manufacturers offering algorithm access or reach out to our technical engineers for integration support.

    Beyond UWB: A New Era of Positioning

    For years, UWB has been the benchmark for high-accuracy indoor positioning. Now, Bluetooth 6.0 Channel Sounding brings comparable precision without requiring new radios in end-user devices. With the technology already present in billions of smartphones and IoT devices, the path to mass adoption is much shorter.

    Bluetooth CS doesn’t just refine Bluetooth, it redefines what’s possible with wireless connectivity. From secure keyless entry to asset tracking across industries, it sets the stage for the next wave of indoor positioning systems. And in a world where location awareness is becoming a cornerstone of user experience, that makes CS a breakthrough worth watching.

  • Why Disposable Plastic Connectors Still Matter in Healthcare

    When people think about plastic, they often picture pollution, waste, and cheap throwaway products. News stories about tons of plastic ending up in our oceans have made the material controversial, and rightly so. But here’s the truth: plastic is not always the villain. In medicine, single-use plastic connectors can literally save lives.

    The Good Side of Plastics

    Plastics are everywhere because they’re incredibly versatile. They’re light, durable, moldable into almost any shape, and act as excellent electrical insulators. For connector designers, that last point is especially important. Plastic keeps circuits isolated, which not only prevents short circuits but also protects people from accidental shocks.

    Not all plastics are created equal, though. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, and the challenge is matching the right plastic to the right job.

    Why Material Choice Matters

    In industries like electronics and outdoor equipment, connectors need to survive tough environments—rain, heat, and even direct sunlight. Some high-performance plastics, like polyamide, stand up well to UV exposure, while others, like PEEK, lose strength when left in the sun for too long.

    This is why engineers spend so much time weighing trade-offs. The wrong plastic can mean early failure, while the right one can make a connector last for years in harsh conditions.

    The Medical Exception: Safety Comes First

    But healthcare is different. In medicine, reliability and patient safety take priority over long-term durability. Every connector that links a patient to medical equipment must be sterile. Traditionally, that means subjecting devices to extreme sterilization:

    • Autoclaves that blast equipment with high-pressure steam.
    • Chemical baths that use harsh, sometimes dangerous substances.
    • Radiation sterilization, which carries its own risks.

    These processes are tough on materials. Even high-performance plastics can weaken over time. And if sterilization fails? The consequences could be life-threatening.

    That’s why, in many cases, it makes sense to use disposable connectors. One use, then safely discarded.

    Why Single-Use Plastic Connectors Work

    Single-use connectors may go against the push to reduce plastic waste, but in healthcare, they solve real problems:

    • They guarantee sterility by avoiding reuse.
    • They allow the use of more affordable plastics instead of costly high-performance polymers.
    • They protect patients by providing safe electrical isolation in critical equipment.

    In short, disposability often means safety.

    Finding the Balance

    Yes, plastic waste is a serious global issue. But not all applications are equal. In hospitals, single-use medical plastic connectors can make the difference between safety and risk, reliability and failure.

    The real challenge for the future isn’t removing plastics from medicine altogether—it’s finding smarter ways to balance safety, cost, and sustainability. That might mean more recycling, better material innovation, or hybrid approaches. But for now, in the operating room and ICU, disposability still has its place.

  • How AI is Driving Next-Generation Data Center Architectures

    Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are transforming nearly every aspect of modern life, from personal devices to enterprise-level applications. This rapid growth has placed unprecedented demands on data center infrastructure, requiring faster processing, higher bandwidth, and more efficient resource management.

    The Challenge: Scaling Data Centers for AI

    Traditional data center architectures assign dedicated memory to each processor. While this approach keeps latency low, it often leads to inefficient memory utilization. Some processors may remain underused while others face memory bottlenecks, creating performance imbalances.

    To solve this, disaggregated architectures have emerged. By pooling memory resources separately from processors, data centers can optimize usage across workloads. However, this separation increases the reliance on high-speed, low-latency connectivity to maintain system performance.

    PCIe Connectivity: The Backbone of Modern Data Centers

    High-performance connectivity is critical for AI workloads. The Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIeÂŽ) standard enables rapid data transfer between components, making it an essential interconnect for modern data centers.

    When selecting PCIe connectors, engineers must consider several factors:

    • Data throughput: Ensuring connectors can handle current and future AI workloads.
    • Durability: Supporting long-term operation without failure.
    • Compatibility: Allowing seamless upgrades with existing infrastructure.

    Managing Heat and Energy Efficiency

    As AI workloads grow, data centers face rising power consumption—some racks now draw up to 100kW, generating significant heat. Cooling systems can account for up to 40% of operational costs. According to ASHRAE, recommended ambient temperatures range from 64.4°F to 80.6°F (18°C to 27°C). Many operators now run at the higher end of this range to reduce energy costs.

    Connectors play a vital role in thermal management. Their placement affects airflow on PCBs, and high-density connectors must perform reliably under elevated temperatures. Designers must ensure connectors do not overheat, which could degrade performance or require reducing electrical current to prevent further heat generation.

    The Amphenol FCI PCIe Gen 5 Flip Connector

    To meet modern data center demands, Amphenol FCI introduced the PCIe Gen 5 Flip CEM card edge connector. This connector maintains backward compatibility with previous PCIe generations while delivering full Gen 5 performance up to 32GT/s.

    Key advantages of the Gen 5 Flip connector include:

    • Reduced PCB footprint: Both rows of contacts are aligned in the same direction, shrinking the footprint by up to 19.5%.
    • Edge-placement suitability: Ideal for applications near PCB edges.
    • Robust design: Supports high-speed AI workloads while ensuring durability.

    These features make the Gen 5 connector a reliable solution for both current and future data center architectures.

    Preparing for AI-Driven Growth

    AI continues to push the limits of computing, and data centers must evolve to keep pace. Disaggregated architectures, combined with high-speed PCIe connectivity, offer a scalable, efficient path forward.

    With innovations like the Amphenol FCI PCIe Gen 5 Flip connector, engineers can ensure their infrastructure meets today’s AI demands while remaining compatible with existing systems—striking a balance between performance, efficiency, and long-term reliability.

    Sources

    https://www.ashrae.org//File%20Library/Technical%20Resources/Bookstore/ASHRAE_TC0909_Power_White_Paper_22_June_2016_REVISED.pdf

    https://restservice.epri.com/publicdownload/000000003002028905/0/Product

  • Amphenol ATS Connectors for Tractors and Farming

    Autonomous tractors and smart farm equipment are revolutionizing agriculture. These self-driving machines can plow, plant, and harvest with minimal human oversight, but they operate in harsh environments where dust, moisture, vibration, and temperature extremes can threaten connectivity. Reliable connectors are critical to keep these systems running smoothly.

    Why Connectors Matter in Autonomous Farming

    Autonomous farm equipment relies on continuous, uninterrupted power and data transfer. Connectors in these systems are more than components, than autonomous farm equipment, connectors aren’t just components, they’re lifelines. They must:

    • Maintain secure electrical and data connections
    • Withstand rough terrain and environmental stress
    • Support continuous operation without failures

    A single loose connection can halt operations, delay harvests, or even damage crops.

    Amphenol Sine Systems ATS Series

    The Amphenol Sine Systems ATS Series™ connectors are enginThe Amphenol Sine Systems ATS Series™ connectors are built for harsh conditions:

    • Durable thermoplastic housing
    • IP67/IP69K rating for dust and water resistance
    • Terminal Position Assurance (TPA) for proper contact alignment
    • Current up to 7.5A and voltage up to 250VAC/VDC
    • Compatible with wire gauges 30AWG–18AWG
    • RoHS-compliant

    The ATS Series supports multiple plug/receptacle configurations, making it flexible for a wide range of industrial and agricultural applications.

    Key Advantages for Engineers

    The ATS Series delivers:

    • Durability: Resistant to vibration, moisture, dust, and temperature extremes
    • Reliability: Consistent connections even in challenging environments
    • Scalability: Supports multiple configurations and power/signal needs
    • Cost-effectiveness: High-performance design at a competitive price

    Whether building autonomous tractors, irrigation systems, or industrial control platforms, the ATS Series ensures your systems stay connected—rain, dust, or shine.

    Sources

    https://www.iotworldtoday.com/transportation-logistics/yamaha-launches-division-for-autonomous-farming#close-modal

    https://www.agriculture.com/top-agriculture-innovations-at-ces-2025-8771325

  • GNSS and Bluetooth 5 Modules: Elevating Precision Golf Technology

    In the world of sports technology, precision and connectivity are transforming the game of golf. From tracking a golfer’s swing to mapping courses in real time, advanced technologies enable smarter, more responsive systems that enhance both training and competition.

    This week’s New Tech Tuesdays highlights GNSS modules and Bluetooth 5 modules, which are powering the next generation of connected golf equipment.

    Precision Where It Matters: Fairways and Greens

    Accuracy is critical in golf. On fairways and greens, every inch matters, and advanced positioning systems allow golfers to:

    • Track ball landings, player movements, and club paths
    • Analyze shot dispersion and optimize club selection
    • Refine swing technique with confidence

    High-resolution location data ensures rapid signal acquisition and real-time feedback during practice or competitive play. Compact and energy-efficient, these technologies integrate seamlessly into smart golf equipment and wearable devices without interrupting the natural rhythm of the game.

    Wireless Intelligence Behind Every Swing

    Real-time feedback depends on reliable wireless connectivity. Modern Bluetooth 5 modules provide:

    • Low-power, high-efficiency data transfer from embedded sensors in clubs, balls, or launch monitors
    • Instant transmission of key metrics like swing speed, club angle, angle of attack (AoA), and impact force
    • Mesh networking and over-the-air updates for multi-device communication and accuracy

    This connectivity empowers players, coaches, and training systems to immediately analyze performance and make adjustments on the fly.

    New Tech Highlights: u-blox GNSS and Bluetooth 5 Modules

    u-blox’s MAX-F10S GNSS module and ANNA-B112-01B Bluetooth 5 module deliver precision and connectivity in compact, scalable solutions.

    MAX-F10S GNSS Module

    • Standard-precision GNSS for accurate positioning
    • Dual-band L1/L5 reception and advanced multipath mitigation
    • Robust RF interference resilience for dense urban environments
    • Compact, backward-compatible with previous MAX generations
    • Reliable, high-integrity performance thanks to rigorous manufacturing

    ANNA-B112-01B Bluetooth 5 Module

    • Supports Bluetooth mesh, NFC™, and simultaneous central/peripheral roles
    • Built on Nordic nRF52832 SoC with u-connectXpress software
    • Enables secure, low-power wireless communication
    • Designed for wearables, IoT devices, and industrial automation

    Together, these modules offer a complete solution for connected golf systems, combining precise positioning with robust wireless communication.

    Conclusion

    The fusion of GNSS precision and Bluetooth 5 connectivity is shaping the future of golf technology. Whether designing connected swing analyzers, smart training platforms, or real-time performance monitoring systems, these modules provide engineers and athletes with the tools to drive innovation, accuracy, and smarter sports experiences.