techarticle

The Internet of Things (IoT), a collective network of connected devices that communicate via the Internet, transforms how we live, work, and interact with objects in our environment. By integrating real-time connectivity and cloud computing into everyday devices, IoT enables real-time data collection and analysis, facilitating better decision-making and personalized experiences. For example, it can…

Neuralink recently demonstrated the successful use of its N1 chip — a brain-computer interface (BCI) — in the first human participant. This 64-probe device has 1,024 electrodes and can provide data on how the human brain works. The electrodes connect directly with an individual’s neurons, providing detailed insight into how brainwave signals operate. However, this…

ESP-NOW is a connection-less wireless communication protocol by Espressif, a company that developed the popular Wi-Fi development boards ESP8266 and ESP32. This low-power 2.4 GHz wireless communication protocol allows two paired ESP boards to communicate without a router or Wi-Fi. ESP-NOW communicates in small packets of data within a few hundred meters. This connection remains…

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of interconnected devices that communicate to perform specific tasks or applications. These devices are extensive and include vehicles, appliances, sensors, software, or web services. Effective communication is crucial in any IoT application, allowing these devices to work seamlessly. In an IoT network, device-to-device communication is distinct.…

Many communication technologies are currently available, making choosing one for an Internet-of-Things project potentially daunting. For example, several LP-WAN options exist, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, LoRa, Zigbee, Bluetooth, and cellular technologies like NB-IoT, LTE-M, and 5G. Every connectivity solution has pros and cons, and there isn’t one ideal for all projects. Wi-Fi might seem like the…

In A guide to bipolar junction transistors, the definition and types of transistors and their applications are covered. In What to look for in a BJT transistor datasheet, transistor specifications are discussed, including what’s required before using or choosing a transistor in a circuit. In this article, we’ll explain what transistor configurations are and why…

Many of today’s Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices require a web front-end. These could be real-time dashboards for monitoring sensor readings or web-based user interfaces to control devices or machines. IoT devices differ from the web in that they rely on low-bandwidth, low-speed data communication protocols to communicate data with one another over the Internet. Since tiny microcontrollers…

LoRaWAN is a popular low-power wireless communication technology that provides a range of up to 15 km. LoRa signals can penetrate buildings and obstacles, providing reliable device-to-device communication over a broad coverage area. Thousands of Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices can be integrated within this range for seamless peer-to-peer communication. These radio devices are power-efficient and easily…

Amplifiers are one of the most common circuits frequently used in electronics. There are several types of amplifiers, including: Audio amplifiers: amplify the audio signals like music and speech signals Radio frequency amplifiers: boost weak radio frequency signals of radios and televisions Power amplifiers: amplify the overall power of a weak signal Operational amplifiers: used…

In a previous article, we discussed the different types of load cells. A load cell is a transducer that converts a mechanical force into a measurable electrical signal. Different load cells are designed to convert different mechanical forces into electrical voltage.  Load cells are typically classified by shape and form, with a unique configuration. Common types include canister load cells,…

Several types of motors are used in building robots. These include brushed dc motors, brushless dc motors, stepper motors, servo motors, geared dc motors, ac motors, pneumatic motors, hydraulic motors, and linear motors. Each type of motor serves a specific purpose in a robotic application and has advantages and disadvantages.  Brushed dc motors are the most affordable…

In a previous article, we discussed the fundamental concepts of a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), which are the building blocks of electronics. We covered the two types of BJTs—NPN and PNP—including their construction, I-V characteristics, circuit configurations, applications, and types.  Typically, transistors are used in a circuit or a circuit stage as a switch or an amplifier.…

Neuralink, Elon Musk’s brain chip company, has made history. Following FDA approval, the neurotechnology company conducted its first human trial in January 2024. The company’s first human test subject, Noland Arbaugh, received the brain-computer chip implanted successfully.  A 2016 diving accident left Noland paraplegic from the shoulders down. However, the Neuralink chip is giving him movement.…

Determining a precise location is necessary in several industries for several reasons, including navigation, direction, timing, tracing, and safety. Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) let users pinpoint exact locations via satellites. GNSS supports critical infrastructure, emergency response, and navigation. GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and Beidou are the only navigation systems offering global coverage. Regional satellite systems…

The motor controller is one of the most important components of an electric bicycle or e-bike. It’s an electronic device that manages the operation of an electric motor. It also connects to all other major parts of an e-bike, including the battery, brakes, sensors, throttle, and motor. The motor controller acts like the brain of…

A network of sensors is embedded throughout vehicles, serving as a critical type of “nervous system” that detects and measures different automotive parameters. This network is essential for a vehicle’s safety, performance, and efficiency. Several types of sensors are responsible for different roles, such as monitoring the temperature of engine components, the speed of the…

Electric vehicles (EVs) are reshaping the automotive industry in terms of sustainability and technology. Not only are EVs reducing greenhouse gases and dependency on fossil fuels, but these vehicles are also driving innovation in aerodynamics, lightweight materials, batteries, powertrains, inverters, software, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), charging systems, cables, and much more. There have also been…