Cryogenic (cryo) microwave (µw) power measurements are vital for advancing quantum computing. Delicate quantum devices require operation at cryo temperatures to maintain coherence and stability. Accurate power measurements at cryo temperatures are also required to optimize and debug quantum hardware. This article begins by reviewing cryo zones in a quantum computer and the related µw […]
FAQ
Beyond the drivetrain: sensor innovation in automotive
By Karsten Köhler, Business Development Manager at TDK-Micronas The auto industry is amid two transformative trends: the gradual transition from internal combustion engines (ICE) to electric motors and drivetrains and the ongoing development of driver assistance and self-driving features. Sensor technology is famously integral to both trends, but electrification and assisted driving account for only […]
How are VCSELs used in biomedical sensors?
Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) are used in biomedical sensors because they emit highly focused, coherent light at specific wavelengths, enabling precise detection and analysis of biomolecules. Applications include blood oxygen level monitoring, optical coherence tomography (OCT) for imaging tissue structures, fluorescence microscopy, and analysis of live biomolecules in lab-on-a-chip systems. VCSELs offer a third option […]
What sensors are needed to fly hypersonic missiles?
Maneuverability and guidance systems, not just raw speed, are key differentiators for hypersonic missiles. That requires aerodynamic pressure sensors, optical sensors, inertial sensors, space-based tracking, infrared sensors, and more. All are combined into a single guidance system using sensor fusion. This article reviews the sensor types for hypersonic guidance, navigation, and target acquisition systems. Hypersonic […]
How does an electronic tongue sense: part 2
Part 1 showed two production techniques for electronic- or E-tongues. Researchers are busy investigating ways to use advanced artificial intelligence (AI) in conjunction with new sensing techniques to provide even more capabilities to E-tongues. Sensing for food problems To detect food fraud, spoilage, and contamination within minutes, researchers at Penn State University developed their version […]
How does an electronic tongue sense: part 1
When sensors that detect the five senses, hearing, sight, feeling, smell, and taste, are discussed, the one that usually gets mentioned the least is taste. Electronic ears, eyes, touch, and noses have far more available products than electronic tongues – but that could change. Like many sensors, the underlying technology for an electronic tongue (or […]
What are the mathematics that enable sensor fusion?
The mathematics that enable sensor fusion include probabilistic modeling and statistical estimation using Bayesian inference and techniques like particle filters, Kalman filters, and α-β-γ filters, which allow for combining data from multiple sensors while accounting for noise and uncertainty to produce a more accurate overall picture of a system or environment. Neural networks (NNs) are […]
What is negative temperature coefficient?
A negative temperature coefficient (NTC) refers to any physical value that decreases as the temperature increases or vice versa. In electronics, NTC usually refers to a material’s decreasing resistance as the temperature rises. This article examines how NTC device performance is quantified and compares with other technologies like resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) and positive temperature […]
When are signal conditioners not needed with sensors?
Signal conditioning is necessary in most sensor applications, but there are exceptions. This article discusses those exceptions and reviews sensor technology, system design, and operational considerations where signal conditioning may be unnecessary and expensive. Sensing is all about the output signal. External signal conditioners are not needed when signal conditioning is integrated into the measurement […]
FAQ on optical proximity sensing: part 2
A light source and photosensor combine for effective, reliable, non-contact proximity detection of nearby objects. Part 1 of this article looked at the principles and three basic approaches to optical proximity sensing, also called photoelectric sensing. This part looks at physical implementations of the system, input/output specifics, and other considerations. Q: Is this a relatively […]
