techarticle

MicroSD cards are widely used with single-board computers such as the Raspberry Pi, NVIDIA Jetson Nano (the 2 and 4GB variants), and Odroid. In addition to single-board computers, various embedded devices rely on MicroSD cards for storage, data logging, firmware updates, and booting operating systems. MicroSD cards are cost-effective, offering the lowest per-gigabyte cost among…

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer confined to data centers. Today, AI is widely used and implemented in edge devices, smartphones, and embedded systems. This has been made possible through hardware and software acceleration methods that work together within embedded systems. It’s now feasible to run small machine-learning models on low-power, resource-constrained microcontroller units without…

Text-to-speech (TTS) engines are widely used in assistive technology, communication systems, and automation in various industries. They’re essential for individuals with visual impairments or reading disabilities, enabling them to access written content audibly. TTS also assists students with dyslexia, language learners, and individuals with learning difficulties. Virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant also…

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has undergone rapid advancements in recent years. This progress has led to unique computational requirements for modern AI systems, which traditional CPUs and GPUs cannot fully address. Initially, GPUs offered a solution for running AI models. However, as algorithms and applications have grown more complex, particularly in areas like deep neural networks,…

Edge AI refers to deploying artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms and models directly on local devices like sensors, smartphones, or Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices. This approach includes edge computing, which processes data closer to where it’s generated rather than sending it to a centralized Cloud for analysis. According to a report by Gartner, by the end of…

Artificial intelligence (AI) chips have become essential for powering various advanced device features, especially in smartphones. A few AI examples related to a phone’s camera include: Adjusting camera settings for optimal results Applying filters in real-time while capturing photos or videos Tracking moving objects in real-time, keeping them focused for the shot Identifying scenes in…

In the previous article, we discussed the different types of AI chips. Among these, ASICs play a significant role. Compared to GPUs, ASICs are faster and more power-efficient, thanks to their customized architectures designed for specific AI tasks or algorithms. One common misconception about AI ASICs is that they’re used solely for inference applications. However,…

The demand for artificial Intelligence (AI) chips is increasing due to their suitability in certain AI applications. This development mirrors the rise of Graphic Processing Units (GPUs) for 3D applications years ago. However, traditional CPUs and even GPUs often fall short in handling the unique demands of AI workloads, prompting the emergence of AI-specific chips.…

Spy gadgets, once exclusive to professional espionage, are now widely accessible and affordable for everyday users. Today, such devices are commonly employed in personal security, surveillance, private investigations, and sting operations. They also serve practical personal needs, such as monitoring pets, children, or elderly family members, recording lectures and meetings, and documenting events. Various spy…

Modern cars feature over 70 sensors that monitor various aspects of the vehicle, with 15 to 30 solely dedicated to tracking engine functions. As the automotive industry moves toward automation, the role of sensors will only increase. For example, Level 2+ autonomous vehicles require environmental awareness akin to that of a human driver, using a…

Electronic gadgets have transformed how we learn and teach, revolutionizing many aspects of education. Thanks to advancements in technology, remote learning is now accessible to anyone, anywhere, meaning it’s possible to learn from educators globally without leaving home. Internet-powered devices and artificial intelligence have made personalized, data-driven education a reality, which increases engagement through customized…

Global Positioning System (GPS) trackers are widely used devices that provide real-time or periodic location updates. Their applications range from navigation, logistics, fleet management, and personal safety to outdoor activities, theft prevention, and even pet monitoring. Available in various sizes and with diverse features, GPS trackers are adaptable to different needs. Whether for personal use…

Modern vehicles are incomplete without an infotainment system, an automotive computer system with various multimedia features and functions. Infotainment is derived by combining the words “entertainment” and “information,” and these systems deliver both. They’re comprised of an embedded computer system for multimedia, developed to enhance and enrich the overall driving experience. Typically, infotainment systems include…

CCTV, short for Closed-Circuit Television, plays a vital role in modern surveillance systems. It’s commonly used for home security, traffic management, crowd control, crime prevention, property and employee monitoring, and even wildlife observation. Installing a CCTV system involves connecting a network of cameras to a centralized hub, ensuring comprehensive and secure monitoring across various applications.…

The idea of a smart home first took hold in 1975 when Pico Electronics introduced the X10 protocol and devices designed to control electronic appliances using power lines. However, computers were not yet advanced enough for automation or remote control. As technology evolved, so did automation. Microcontrollers played a critical role, but the early systems…

Smartwatches are popular wearable devices that are divided into two broad categories: phone companions and fitness trackers. The phone companion acts as an extension or mini clone of the wearer’s smartphone, staying connected via Bluetooth. Common features include email notifications, calling, messaging, social media integration, calendar management, music control, mobile payments, and voice assistant functionality. While certain…

Televisions have been presenting video content since the 1930s. At first, they were only used to broadcast programs by receiving and displaying over-the-air television signals. Eventually, they began displaying recorded content from VHS tapes, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. In 2007, Samsung introduced the first smart LCD TV, “Bordeaux.” This smart TV featured built-in Wi-Fi connectivity…

The Controller Area Network (CAN) is a well-established communication protocol widely recognized for its use in automotive and industrial applications. Developed by Bosch in the 1980s, CAN was specifically designed to support real-time control systems, making it an essential technology in automation. Although newer protocols have emerged, it remains a legacy standard that’s integral to…

The global wearable technology market was valued at US $70 billion in 2023 and is expected to hit $231 billion by 2032. “Hearables,” such as earbuds and headphones, constitute 61.3% of this market. Smartwatches witnessed a growth of 8% last year. With chip and sensor technology advances, smaller devices like smart rings are emerging as…

Since its launch in 1999, MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) has been a valuable standards-based messaging protocol for automation applications. Its lightweight, efficient “publish-subscribe” model makes it ideal for communication between and across various devices, systems, and services. MQTT has transformed applications in supply chain management, quality control, predictive maintenance, M2M communication, and industrial energy…