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Articles by Chris DeMartino
3D Connector Models Enhance Signal-Integrity Analysis
Printed-circuit-board (PCB) connectors come in all shapes and sizes and are used across multiple applications. They can be classified as either board-to-board connectors, which enable the backplane and daughter card architecture, or board-to-cable connectors, which connect wiring to a PCB. PCB connectors are also characterized in terms of gender.
Take Advantage of 3D EM Simulation for Densely Packed Designs
by Chris DeMartino, Modelithics Small form factors are often crucial for today’s applications, leading to scenarios in which surface-mount components are densely packed onto printed circuit boards (PCBs). When components are packed into a small space, the components can couple to one another because of their close proximity. Unfortunately, these coupling effects cannot be captured in simulations when equivalent-circuit models are used for the components.
Shadowy Dream-Pop Songwriter Claude Shares Debut EP 'Enactor'
Loading... Chicago’s shadowy songwriter and detached, distorted dream-pop lyricist, Claude, shares her debut EP, Enactor, out now via Side Hustle Records / The Orchard. Exploring the darkness of true self-awareness and the hidden depths of the collective consciousness, these six songs hold a code that’s embedded into those brave enough to admit these truths and bring them into the spotlight. Vulnerable courage that says it’s okay not to be okay emerges.
Parker Millsap Shares New Single Off Upcoming New Album 'Be Here Instead'
Loading... Acclaimed singer-songwriter Parker Millsap shares his new song “Vulnerable.” A lushly textured piece of psychedelic soul threaded with elegantly simple wisdom, it’s the second song released from his new album Be Here Instead, arriving via his own Okrahoma Records and Thirty Tigers Friday, April 9. Be Here Instead is available for pre-order now. “The original title of this song was ‘Note to Self,” Millsap shares.
A Case Study in Successful First-Pass Filter Design
by Bill Weedon, Applied Radar, Inc. & Chris DeMartino, Modelithics Filters are critical components used in nearly every radar and communications system to pass signals within a certain frequency range while rejecting others that fall outside the desired band. When a filter is needed, one option for system manufacturers is to simply purchase one from a vendor. A range of filter vendors are currently on the market that could potentially provide a solution for a given requirement.
Deep Sea Diver Shares New Track With Fan-Sourced Video Urging Support For Independent Venues
Deep Sea Diver has shared new track “Wishing” from their third album Impossible Weight (due October 16 via High Beam Records / ATO Records). The track is accompanied by a fan-sourced video, which features fans dancing to the track in front of venue marquees from around the country. The video and its depictions of these closed-down spaces serves as a potent reminder of the plight currently faced by the live music industry.
Accurate Models and Discrete Part-Value Optimization Combine to Improve Workflows
Download this article in PDF format. Designing RF filters and other high-frequency circuits with today’s simulation software tools often involves performing some form of optimization to achieve the desired performance. For example, take the case of a lumped-element filter. Optimizing such a filter involves adjusting the values of its lumped components until the filter achieves an optimal frequency response.
Simulating Modelithics X-Parameter Amplifier Models in a Keysight Genesys Design Environment
by Chris DeMartino, Modelithics Introduction This article provides an overview of X-Parameters-based amplifier models using the Modelithics™ system-level component (SLC) Library in the Keysight Genesys circuit design environment.1 S-parameter, noise, and harmonic-balance simulations are presented. Table 1 lists X-Parameter models currently available for use in Keysight Genesys. In comparison to Table 1 of Reference 1, the table here for Genesys reveals fewer models.
Learn Radar Engineering with Python and MATLAB
This new book focuses on radar fundamentals and utilizes Python and MATLAB to drive home major topics. Chris DeMartino | Dec 06, 2019 Intended to introduce and expound on a number of radar fundamentals, the book Introduction to Radar Using Python and MATLAB presents a tool suite that consists of Python scripts, as well as corresponding MATLAB scripts, to reinforce fundamental topics.
Alliance Gives Students a Gateway to the Mobile Technology World
This partnership between industry and academia is making it possible for students to have access to modern equipment used for mobile configuration testing. Chris DeMartino | Dec 06, 2019 A previous column discussed how Queensborough Community College (QCC) in Bayside, N.Y., is focused on RF education with its array of industry-standard test equipment and more. Continuing that theme, QCC’s commitment to technology education can be further validated by its partnership with Nokia Bell Labs.
Alliance Gives Students a Gateway to the Mobile Technology World
This partnership between industry and academia is making it possible for students to have access to modern equipment used for mobile configuration testing. Chris DeMartino | Dec 06, 2019 A previous column discussed how Queensborough Community College (QCC) in Bayside, N.Y., is focused on RF education with its array of industry-standard test equipment and more. Continuing that theme, QCC’s commitment to technology education can be further validated by its partnership with Nokia Bell Labs.
Model Your Way to Project-Level Success
In this Q&A, Rick Gentile from MathWorks discusses his goal for his current blog series along with topics like hybrid beamforming and RF and antenna modeling. Chris DeMartino | Dec 05, 2019 Many have already seen your name thanks to the Algorithms to Antenna blogs. What do you want readers to gain from them? MATLAB and Simulink are used by a large and diverse customer base.
A Farewell to Microwaves & RF
After nearly five years with the magazine, it’s now time to move on to the next chapter. Chris DeMartino | Dec 05, 2019 To the Microwaves & RF audience, I start by bringing you the news that this column will be my final one, as I’m leaving the magazine after four-and-a-half years. And while I’m truly grateful for the experience I’ve had here, I’m also looking forward to what lies ahead. When I first embarked upon this job back in May 2015, I had much enthusiasm for what I was getting into.
Turn Any Surface into an Interactive One
This company has developed technology that makes it possible for any surface—regardless of the material—to function as a programmable touch interface.
Microwaves & RF Products of the Week (11/25-11/29)
Chris DeMartino | Nov 27, 2019 A GaAs MMIC power splitter/combiner...a dc-to-40-GHz SP6T switch matrix...a 3,300-to-3,600-MHz high-efficiency PA—these are some of the latest products making news in the industry. No doubt, companies are pushing out products that reach higher and higher frequencies. Of course, 5G is a big reason for that, but other applications are demanding higher-frequency products as well.
Purdue University Equips the Next Generation of Engineers
Electronic Design recently hosted an event at Purdue University, where we got to engage with engineering students and spend time with one of the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering’s directors. Chris DeMartino | Nov 15, 2019 On October 25th, Electronic Design hosted an event at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind. (Fig. 1). The event gave electrical engineering students an opportunity to meet with staff from Electronic Design as well as Digi-Key and Renesas Electronics.
Digital Transceiver is Ready for Battle
Suitable for a wide range of applications, this new transceiver features the latest commercial technology and offers advantages such as modularity. Chris DeMartino | Nov 15, 2019 Developing high-performance solutions for defense applications is the focal point of Mercury Systems, which offers products that range from mixed-signal-processing solutions to RF/microwave components and much more.
Where Will Tomorrow’s Technology Take Us?
Wireless technology has become a dominant force in our everyday lives, yet some are looking way ahead with the hope of pushing the envelope further to create tomorrow’s communications. Chris DeMartino | Nov 04, 2019 It comes as no surprise to anyone that wireless technology has become a central aspect of our lives today. Of course, it’s hard to imagine a world without smartphones—simply look around and everyone seemingly has one in hand.
Microwaves & RF Products of the Month (October 2019)
Chris DeMartino | Oct 29, 2019 From amplifiers to passive components to simulation models, check out some of the industry’s latest product offerings. No doubt, companies are pushing out products that reach higher and higher frequencies. Of course, 5G is a big reason for that, but other applications are demanding higher-frequency products as well. Here, you’ll see some of the latest products, which includes amplifiers, passive components, a cabling solution, and even simulation models. Related
Looking Way Ahead to 6G
While 5G represents the next generation of wireless communications, a new sub-terahertz testbed is already setting the stage for 6G research. Chris DeMartino | Oct 23, 2019 Download this article in PDF format. With the 5G era just barely upon us, it may seem preposterous to already be thinking about 6G communications. However, some are indeed looking ahead to 6G technology, evidenced by National Instruments’ (NI) recent announcement of a sub-terahertz (sub-THz) testbed for 6G research (Fig. 1).
New Book is an Antenna Resource for All
This practical guide on antennas covers a wide range of topics such as microstrip antenna design, phased-array antennas, and much more. Chris DeMartino | Oct 07, 2019 The new book titled, “Practical Microstrip and Printed Antenna Design,” is intended to serve as a practical antenna design guide that covers real-world applications. The author, Anil Pandey from Keysight Technologies, geared the book more toward practical antenna design rather than theoretical analysis.
Advanced Materials Processing is this Firm’s Primary Mission
Greg Sexton, Accumet’s president and CEO, discusses his company’s history, its many capabilities, and some of the challenges he is seeing going forward. Chris DeMartino | Oct 03, 2019 First, can you tell us a little about what Accumet does? I’d like Accumet to be known as an advanced materials processing house—not just a laser and lapping service provider. Since purchasing Laser Services back in 2007, I quickly learned that lapping and polishing were complementary businesses.
Bring Unity to Electrical and Thermal Analysis
This new tool makes it possible to execute complete electrical-thermal co-simulations at the integrated-circuit, printed-circuit-board, and system levels. Chris DeMartino | Sep 30, 2019 Earlier this year, Cadence introduced the Clarity 3D Solver, a 3D electromagnetic (EM) field solver for printed-circuit-board (PCB) and integrated-circuit (IC) package design.
Editor's Choice: Making IoT Connections
https://www.mwrf.com/sites/all/themes/penton_subtheme_mwrf/images/logos/footer.png Check out the latest articles, coming from a variety of sources, that were chosen by the editors of Microwaves & RF just for you. The latest entry focuses on modes of IoT connectivity. Browse content
Setting the Stage for mmWave 5G
Analog Devices’ new integrated solution for mmWave 5G applications includes dual- and single-polarization beamformers along with a mmWave up/down converter. Chris DeMartino | Sep 24, 2019 In a recent announcement, Analog Devices (ADI) unveiled a highly integrated solution that’s intended to accelerate millimeter-wave (mmWave) 5G wireless network infrastructure.
Put this Spectrum Analyzer on Your Shopping List
Though labeled a spectrum analyzer, this economical test instrument goes beyond spectral analysis by offering measurement capabilities like signal generation. Chris DeMartino | Sep 24, 2019 As many RF/microwave engineers and technicians can attest, Rohde & Schwarz is known as a supplier of premier high-frequency test-and-measurement equipment. But while the company is certainly synonymous with such high-end instruments, these products also come with a (justifiably) high price tag.
Semi-Rugged Laptop Embodies Toughness
Featuring a modular design, this new semi-rugged laptop is designed for the most demanding environments. Chris DeMartino | Sep 23, 2019 Panasonic recently unveiled its TOUGHBOOK 55 mobile computer—a semi-rugged 14-in. laptop that the company says is the thinnest and lightest in its class (see figure). Intended to support the demands of public safety, enterprise, and government applications, the TOUGHBOOK 55 offers a great deal of flexibility thanks to its modular expansion packs.
Has Simulation Software Made Us Smarter?
One cannot question the advanced capabilities of modern simulation software tools, but how is that affecting the next generation of engineers? Chris DeMartino | Sep 20, 2019 Today’s high-frequency simulation software tools provide engineers with advanced capabilities that were simply not available in years past. These tools are obviously a tremendous benefit to today’s engineers tasked with solving complex problems.
Analyze Multiple Domains with Just One Oscilloscope
Equipped with new mixed-domain analysis capability, this scope goes above and beyond traditional measurements. Chris DeMartino | Aug 30, 2019 Download this article in PDF format. When discussing oscilloscopes, Tektronix is a name that will likely come up thanks to the company’s long history with this ubiquitous test instrument.
How Well Do You Know James Clerk Maxwell?
There’s no questioning the importance of Maxwell’s equations. But do most engineers still remember them? Chris DeMartino | Aug 26, 2019 What are four of the most influential equations in all of science? One could answer that question by saying “Maxwell’s equations,” which most working RF/microwave engineers should have encountered in an undergraduate course on the road to becoming an engineer. But how many still remember Maxwell’s equations in detail?
Phase-Noise Test System Reaches the Limits of Physics
It’s possible to make measurements all the way down to the thermal phase-noise floor with this novel test system. Chris DeMartino | Aug 14, 2019 Never one to rest on its laurels, Keysight Technologies made a big impression at the recent IMS 2019 thanks to several announcements. One such revelation centered on the launch of the company’s new N5511A phase-noise test system (PNTS), which, according to the company, is designed for phase-noise “power users” at the high end of the market (see figure).
Digitizer Brings Functionality and Power to the Table
A new digitizer packs a host of performance benefits that includes low noise and superior vertical resolution. Chris DeMartino | Aug 12, 2019 Tektronix has been particularly busy of late bringing new test-and-measurement equipment to the market. One recent unveiling is the 6 Series low-profile digitizer (model number LPD64) (see figure).
Digitizer Brings Functionality and Power to the Table
A new digitizer packs a host of performance benefits that includes low noise and superior vertical resolution. Chris DeMartino | Aug 12, 2019 Tektronix has been particularly busy of late bringing new test-and-measurement equipment to the market. One recent unveiling is the 6 Series low-profile digitizer (model number LPD64) (see figure).
Workflow Carves a Path to Effective Filter Design
A simulation-based filter design example demonstrates a semi-automated workflow that can help designers achieve first-pass success. Chris DeMartino | Aug 09, 2019 Download this article in PDF format. Simulation-based filter design can be tackled in different ways thanks to the various simulation tools available and the functionality within them. Generally, these tools offer a range of features that help build a more streamlined design process for both seasoned designers and novices alike.
Foundry Aims to Serve All Corners
Can you first give us an overview of TowerJazz? TowerJazz is the global specialty analog foundry leader. We manufacture next-generation integrated circuits (ICs) in growing markets such as 5G/IoT, optical networking, cloud computing, automotive ADAS and vehicle electrification, high-performance imaging including AR/VR, aerospace and defense, and smart power management.
Queensborough Community College Gets an “A” in RF
With a focus on RF education, Queensborough Community College gives students a hands-on experience thanks to its array of industry-standard test equipment and more. Chris DeMartino | Jul 29, 2019 Are enough young people pursuing RF engineering as a career? It’s a question that permeates the RF/microwave industry and continues to get louder. With wireless technology more entrenched in our lives than ever before, the industry will need a new wave of engineers focused on high-frequency technology.
Test Capabilities Offer Reinforcement at Higher Frequencies
National Instruments recently unveiled higher-frequency test solutions that focus in on millimeter-wave 5G along with Ka-band radar and satcom applications. Chris DeMartino | Jul 24, 2019 Not surprisingly, National Instruments (NI) made its presence felt at the recent IMS 2019, bringing an array of new test solutions.
Radar Defends on the Land, in the Air, and at Sea
Radar, which is an acronym for radio detection and ranging, has a history that dates all the way back to the early part of the 20th century. Radar technology was originally developed for military services and was later utilized in combat in World War II. Since its early days, radar technology has significantly changed. Today, radar is used not only for military applications, but also for many civilian applications. As stated, radar technology was originally developed for military purposes.
Distributed PA Accepts Frequencies Far and Wide
Covering a frequency range of dc to 24 GHz, this new distributed power amplifier offers the benefit of a positive gain slope. Chris DeMartino | Jul 23, 2019 Microchip Technology, through its Microsemi subsidiary, now offers the MMA052PP45 gallium-arsenide (GaAs) monolithic-microwave-integrated-circuit (MMIC) pseudomorphic high-electron-mobility-transistor (pHEMT) distributed power amplifier (PA) (see figure).
Long-Standing Company Reveals Many New Tricks at IMS
Maury Microwave recently unveiled a host of new solutions, such as updated mixed-signal active load-pull systems and characterized device calibration kits. Chris DeMartino | Jul 16, 2019 Anyone involved with RF/microwave device characterization is likely to be familiar with Maury Microwave, one of the venerable companies in the RF/microwave industry.
Establish a Connection to the Waveguide World
Using IMS 2019 as a stage, this company put the spotlight on its new waveguide connector, which can easily transform coaxial-connector environments to waveguide interfaces. Chris DeMartino | Jul 11, 2019 Millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies are receiving a great deal of attention these days, with 5G obviously being a major catalyst. One firm right at the forefront of mmWave technology is SAGE Millimeter, which had some new toys to show off at the recent IMS 2019.
The Right Mix: RF Switches Adopt the GaN Recipe
This fabless semiconductor company is showing how gallium-nitride technology can be employed to develop high-power RF switches without the need to stack devices. Chris DeMartino | Jul 09, 2019 Utilization of gallium nitride (GaN) in the RF/microwave industry has soared in recent years, with the technology now playing a key role in applications across the board.
Test Equipment Gets Small
Download the PDF of this article. Today, we are clearly seeing a push toward better-performing products in smaller sizes. To prove this, one need only look at how far cellular phones have advanced over the years. Now, smartphones can do almost whatever we want while still being able to fit inside our pockets. But high-performance in small sizes doesn’t just apply to smartphones. For example, aerospace and defense systems must yield to today’s size, weight, and power (SWaP) constraints.
Take a Path to Accelerated Design Workflows
This software suite is intended to accelerate design workflows for applications across the board, ranging from 5G to automotive radar. Chris DeMartino | Jul 02, 2019 One significant headline coming out of IMS 2019 was Keysight Technologies’ announcement of PathWave Design 2020, a collection of new releases of the company’s electronic-design-automation (EDA) software tools.
Multiport VNAs Grapple with Complex Test Scenarios
This new line of multiport vector network analyzers makes it possible to perform a large number of simultaneous measurements. Chris DeMartino | Jul 01, 2019 As one would expect, Rohde & Schwarz came to IMS 2019 in full force, showcasing various test-and-measurement solutions for all to see. One solution that grabbed the spotlight was its new family of ZNBT multiport vector network analyzers (VNAs), which provides users with as many as 24 test ports (see figure).
The Race to 5G…and 6G?
As carriers reveal their 5G plans, some in the industry are already looking ahead to 6G. Chris DeMartino | Jun 26, 2019 While walking the show floor at IMS 2019, one of the central and most obvious themes was 5G. With all the talk over the last several years, it almost feels like 5G is becoming old news. One consensus from the show is that it’s now time for 5G to turn into a reality. And it’s certainly becoming real, with carriers already announcing that 5G is live in some markets.
Company Shows Why Noise is the Answer
At IMS 2019, Wireless Telecom Group presented a few demonstrations, such as a millimeter-wave noise figure test setup as well as an over-the-air test system. Chris DeMartino | Jun 26, 2019 At IMS each year, Wireless Telecom Group, comprised of Boonton Electronics, CommAgility, Microlab, and Noisecom, always seems to have several demos on hand for visitors to see. IMS 2019 was no exception, as the company showcased a few different test solutions.
Striving to Unify Next-Generation Workflows
Development of next-gen communications systems often is fraught with obstacles, which led one company to bridge the different areas that constitute modern system design. Chris DeMartino | Jun 24, 2019 MathWorks believes that the complexity of today’s wireless standards is creating serious challenges for engineering teams tasked with designing next-generation communications systems.
Smaller MMIC Players Shine at IMS
At this year’s show, a couple of mid-sized companies unveiled several new MMICs, showcasing their impressive performance along with the latest advances made in the technology. Chris DeMartino | Jun 18, 2019 When walking the show floor at IMS 2019, it was easy to spot the big names in the microwave industry with their large booths and various company representatives on hand. However, one shouldn’t forget about the contributions being made by smaller companies throughout the industry.
Hunting for High Power at IMS
Armed with new products and various demos, this company used IMS 2019 as an opportunity to showcase its latest high-power technology. Chris DeMartino | Jun 14, 2019 High-power technology was on display throughout the IMS 2019 show floor, as companies showcased high-power solutions for applications like wireless communications, satellite communications (satcom), and radar.
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