future technology magazine - my-boardclub.com · •data loggers •home-automation or security...

F U T U R E T E C H N O L O G Y M A G A Z I N E

I S S U E 1 2 1 1

In association with www.my-boardclub.com

Design Notes: pages 15-18Secure embedded computing for aconnected world

Technical View: pages 26-27 Securing the smart grid to improve safety and services

Application Spotlight: pages 20-23NXP’s latest contactless-reader ICs for securepayments and identification

Component Focus: pages 2-13 Microchip USB2.0 PIC® families for cost-sensitive connectivity and crystal-fee design

Hall A4.259

Future Electronics ison show at:

Cypress and Ramtron announce mergerCypress and Ramtron have announced amerger agreement under which Cypress willacquire all outstanding Ramtron stock.Cypress’s President and Chief Executive OfficerT.J. Rodgers is enthusiastic about thecombined strengths of the new business.‘The combination of Ramtron’s FRAMtechnology with Cypress’s non-volatile SRAMbusiness, considerable R&D resources,historically strong manufacturing capabilities,global sales organisation, and deep extensioninto distribution channels will create asignificant new entity in the non-volatilememory business,’ he said. Cypress andRamtron aim to ensure a seamless transitionfor customers and partners.

Vishay reveals new high-temperature, low-profile inductorsVishay has added 10 new low-profile high-current inductors with extended temperatureranges to 155°C for automotive andcommercial applications. The new IHLP®-51commercial and -5A automotive devices areoffered in 2525, 3232, 4040, 5050, and 6767case sizes with profiles down to 3.0mm andinductance values from 0.22µH to 33µH. With maximum DCR down to 0.95mΩ and afrequency range up to 1MHz, the new devicesare ideal as high-performing, space- andpower-saving solutions for Voltage-RegulatorModule (VRM) and DC/DC-converterapplications.

Latest high-voltage LEDs from PhilipsLumileds raise the bar againWith typical efficacy of more than 80 lumensper Watt, Philips Lumileds LUXEON® H 50-2high-voltage LEDs improve on the efficacy ofthe existing LUXEON H 50V by 20%.Moreover, the latest devices offer 10% morelumens per Watt and 30% higher luminousflux than leading competitive products, as wellas lumen maintenance that exceeds ENERGYSTAR® requirements. The small size and high-voltage architecture suits a wide range of formfactors and helps designers to reduce costs.

ON Semiconductor introduces advancedmulti-channel PMICsON Semiconductor has introduced two newPower-Management ICs (PMICs) optimisedfor battery-powered systems such as GPSdevices and other portable electronics. TheNCP6924 and NCP6914 feature the latestpower-management techniques to optimisesystem efficiency and save battery life.

S TA R P R O D U C T

2 E M A I L I N F O @ M Y- F T M . C O M F O R S A M P L E S A N D D ATA S H E E T S

Available in a choice of 14-pin or 20-pinpackages, the PIC16F145X MCUs areMicrochip’s lowest-cost and smallest-form-factor USB MCUs to date. The smallestpackage option is a 4mm x 4mm 16-pin QFN,and designers can choose from a large selectionof integrated peripherals such as a 10-bit ADC,5-bit DAC, two analogue comparators and aComplementary Waveform Generator (CWG)Module. The three members of this family enableembedded applications that require USBconnectivity in addition to capacitive touchsensing.

The PIC18F2X/4XK50 devices, available in 28-and 40/44-pin packages, offer a cost-effective,pin-compatible migration option for customersusing legacy PIC18 USB MCUs. The threefamily members feature 1.8V-5V operation,and integrate a Charge-Time MeasurementUnit (CTMU) for measurement applications or tosupport high-performance capacitive touch-sensing with up to 14 channels. Also integratedon-chip are 8-bit and 16-bit timers, and a 4-output capture/compare/PWM module.

The full-featured PIC18F97J94 family isMicrochip’s first to offer integrated LCD control,Real-Time Clock/Calendar (RTCC) withbattery-backup (Vbat) pin, and USB on a single8-bit PIC MCU. Available in 64-, 80- and 100-pin packages, the nine-member familyintegrates a 60x8 LCD controller supporting a

my-ftm.com/121101FOR PARTS ANDLATEST PRICING

©Copyright 2012 Future Electronics Ltd. All trademarks contained herein arethe property of their respective owners. Applications for product samples,badge boards, demonstration boards, Future-Blox Boards and otheradvertised materials from Future Electronics are subject to qualification.

Newsin brief

Microchip has expanded its Full SpeedUSB2.0 PIC® microcontroller (MCU)portfolio with three Enhanced Mid-range8-bit families, offering wide-rangingpin-count and peripheral options andfeaturing a 0.25%-accurate internalclock which saves the cost of anexternal crystal.

Microchip's latest 8-bit devices enable developers to deliver sophisticated functionality in competitively priced applications.

Crystal-free USB PIC® microcontroller familiestarget broad spectrum of opportunities

EVALUATIONBOARDS AT my-boardclub.com/ftm

DETAILSON PAGE

25

APPLICATIONS• Pulse oxymeters• PC accessories • Security dongles• Audio docks• Data loggers• Home-automation or security panels• Handheld scanners• Single-phase energy meters

FEATURES• eXtreme Low Power (XLP) technology• Integrated temperature-indicator module• Enhanced addressable USART module• Extended Watchdog Timer (WDT)• Enhanced Power-On/Off-Reset• Programmable Brown-Out Reset (BOR)

and low-power BOR

ENERGY MEDICAL LIGHTING INDUSTRY SECURITY AUTOMOTIVE


MICROCHIP total of 480 segments, which eliminates theneed for an external controller in applicationswith large segmented displays.

To help to reduce development times, thedownloadable and open-source USBFramework within the free Microchip Library ofApplications (MLA) includes USB drivers formany common USB classes, including HID,CDC, Mass Storage, Win-USB and Audio-MIDI.These drivers can be used with all 15 of thenew PIC MCUs. In addition to these free USBsoftware drivers and stacks, developmenthardware including a USB board and USBplug-in modules will also be available.

3V I S I T T H E O N L I N E F T M M A G A Z I N E AT: W WW . M Y- F T M . C O M

C O M P O N E N T F O C U S

Low-cost RGB LEDs build in features for enhancedflexibility and performance

AVAGO TECHNOLOGIES

Ambient-light and proximity sensorscover spectrum of integration options

Fairchild's sensors enable designers to deliver enhanced userexperiences

The FLD00042 is a pure ambient-light sensor,allowing the brightness of subsystems such asa backlight or keypad to be adjustedautomatically for comfortable viewing under allambient-light conditions. The FLD00042 hascompact dimensions of 2.65mm x 2.00mm x0.70mm.

The FLD00050 adds proximity-sensingcapability allowing backlighting to be turned onor off based on user interactions, usagemodels and power-conservation requirements,and also integrates an LED driver allowing theproximity-detection circuitry to be completedby adding an external infrared LED (IR-LED).

The FLD00060 offers designers the optionof a complete three-in-one device, combiningambient-light sensing plus proximity detectionwith IR-LED driver as well as an integrated IR-LED. With overall dimensions of 3.94mm x2.36mm x 1.35mm, this device allowsdesigners to achieve an extremely space-efficient solution.

The ambient-light sensing capabilities of alldevices include a wide dynamic range, from0.01 Lux to 64,000 Lux, 16-bit effectivesensing resolution, and high immunity toinfrared and ultra-violet light. Proximity-detection performance of the FLD00050 andFLD00060 includes 11-bit resolution and high

Fairchild Semiconductor has expandedits portfolio of ambient-light andproximity sensing devices that simplifycircuit design for smarter mobile devices,with the FLD00042, FLD00050 andFLD00060 which offer designers a rangeof feature-integration choices.

ambient-light rejection.With the introduction of these devices

Fairchild provides one of the largest portfoliosof ambient-light solutions on the market,offering a broad selection of capabilities.Designers can choose from numerous optionsto optimise their systems, gaining thefunctionality needed while also benefitting fromrelatively simple circuit design that requiresminimal optoelectronics knowledge.

FAIRCHILD SEMICONDUCTOR

APPLICATIONS• Display-backlight control for smart mobiles• Laptop or desktop PCs• High-end monitors• LCD televisions

FEATURES• Built-in temperature compensation circuit• Operating-temperature range:

-30°C to 70°C• Supply-voltage range: 2.4V to 3.6V• 400kHz Fast I2C interface



APPLICATIONS• Outdoor and indoor full-colour displays• Video screens• Advertising signs• Stadium scoreboards• Gaming machines• Decorative lighting

FEATURES• In-line RGB dice• Operating-temperature range:

-40°C to 100°C• Compatible with reflow-soldering process• Narrow colour binning: 4nm for blue, 6nm

for green colour• Flexi-bin option: Single colour bin for up to

350k pieces• JEDEC MSL 3



Diodes’ AL5812: page 5PARTNERWORKING

Fairchild’s FAN7340: page 6PARTNERWORKING

Avago Technologies’ ASMT-YTB7 low-cost high-brightness PLCC-6 tri-colourOneLEDs feature a separate heat pathfor each LED chip for maximum drive-current capability, and also provide apin connection to each anode andcathode for ultimate designflexibility.

The high-reliability packagefeatures diffused-siliconeencapsulation and is IPx6water resistant according toIEC 60529:2001. In additionto eliminating the need forprotective covers, this alsoreduces the amount of electronic-grade

potting material required enabling designers toreduce both the cost and overall weight ofLED illumination systems. Compactdimensions of just 3.4mm × 2.8mm × 1.8mmallow dense spacing.

By providing individuallyaddressable pins, the ASMT-YTB7 OneLEDs give designersflexibility to set the individualLED drive levels for millionsof colours including white.With a 120° viewing angleand a built-in reflector tomaximise the useful lightoutput, these LEDs canbe used in exterior orinterior signage,display or lightingapplications. The

devices have a blacksurface, which optimises

contrast enhancementespecially in full-colour signage

Part Number Minimum Brightness/Typical Brightness Operating Temperature

ASMT-YTB7-0AA02Red (20mA) Green (20mA) Blue (20mA)

-40°C to 100°C560mcd/650mcd 1400mcd/1900mcd 285mcd/384mcd

Entry-level 32-bit microcontrollers provide efficient upgradepath for 8-bit applications


Entry-level applications can deliver greater functionality and performance using a Kinetis KL0 series microcontroller.

The Kinetis KL0 MCU family is theentry point into the Kinetis L series ofmicrocontrollers, and combines featuresto minimise power consumption,enhance performance and provide afamiliar, yet enhanced, user experiencefor 8-bit developers.


Built on the ARM® Cortex™-M0+ core, the KL0family delivers two-times higher CoreMarkperformance per mA than the nearest 8/16-bitarchitecture and includes a single-cycle fast

I/O access port that facilitates bit banging andsoftware-protocol emulation. Power-savingfeatures include multiple flexible low-powermodes including a new compute mode whichreduces dynamic power by placing peripheralsin asynchronous stop. In addition, peripheralssuch as serial interfaces, ADC and DAC, low-power timers and the DMA controller are ableto operate while the device is in low-powermode without waking the CPU.

Devices in the KL0 family are pin-compatiblewith the new 8-bit S08P family, and thereforeprovide a footprint-compatible bridge for 8-bitcustomers migrating to the Kinetis portfolio.Family members are also software and toolcompatible with all other Kinetis L seriesfamilies.

FREESCALE

30V MOSFET expands ultra-miniaturepower-switching portfolio

NXP SEMICONDUCTORS

Devices start from 8kbyte of Flash in a small-footprint 4mm x 4mm 24-pin QFN package,extending up to 32kbyte in a LQFP48 package.

Each family member has a rich suite ofanalogue, communication, timing and controlperipherals including a 12-bit ADC, 12-bit DACand comparator, two PWM modules andvarious timers, a capacitive touch-senseinterface, and GPIOs with pin-interrupt supportas well as DMA-request capability and otherindividual pin-control options.

APPLICATIONS• Relay driver• High-speed line driver• Low-side load switch• Switching circuits

FEATURES• 0.38Ω on-state resistance (at 25°C) • 1µA drain leakage current (at 25°C)• 0.18nC gate-drain charge• 56pF input capacitance• 1.5V maximum threshold voltage



APPLICATIONS• Low-power applications• Battery-operated equipment• USB peripherals• Consumer applications

FEATURES• 48MHz core frequency• Bit-manipulation engine• I2C interface compatible with SMBus V2• Security circuitry preventing unauthorised

memory access• Low-power timer• Proven enablement ecosystem




DETAILSON PAGE

25

Vishay’s SiP12107: page 8NXP’s PSMN1R6-40YLC: page 11PARTNERWORKING

With the PMZB380XN 30V single N-channel trench MOSFET, NXPSemiconductors continues toexpand its portfolio in the ultra-small and leadless DFN1006B-3(SOT883B) package for drivingand switching duties in space-constrained applications suchas handheld devices.

The 1.0mm x 0.6mm x 0.37mmDFN1006B-3 package is the world’ssmallest discrete transistor package, andprovides superior thermal performance.

In this package, the PMZB380XN has acurrent rating of 930mA enabling designers tosignificantly increase power density in variousload-switching, charger-control and power-

conversion applications.The PMZB380XN haslow gate charge and

parasitic capacitances,enabling energy-efficient switching athigh operatingfrequencies. Inaddition, the devicehas a low typical

gate-source thresholdvoltage of 1V which allows direct

connection to a low-voltage signal such as amicrocontroller or logic-IC output to controlMOSFET turn-on/turn-off.



Low input-current optocouplers save boardspace in SOP-4 package

Small package dimensions and plentiful CTR options provide extraflexibility for designers.

The AL5812 can drive long LED chains.

VISHAY

Compact linear LED driver enhances low-current lighting systemsBy providing an open-drain output capable ofhandling a swing from 1V to 60V, the AL5812can drive long LED chains of up to 16 low-power LEDs. The driver is able to meet power-handling requirements over a wide supply-voltage range. The device is specified over theindustrial temperature range from -40ºC to125ºC, and so is able to accommodate highluminaire operating temperatures.

The LED current is set using a high-valueresistor on the driver’s low-voltage, 0.5V RSETpin, enabling the specification of a lower cost,smaller footprint resistor to reduce total systemBOM cost. Since the pin is separate from theLED current path, accuracy is maintained whileminimising the required overheads to regulatethe LED current. A standard low-valuedecoupling capacitor is the only other externalcomponent needed. The driver maintains theLED current accurately, within a tolerance of 3%.

The AL5812 is offered in small-footprint,thermally-enhanced exposed-pad MSOP-8EPand U-DFN3030-6 surface-mount packageoptions.

Delivering a constant current of up to150mA, the AL5812 60V linear LEDdriver from Diodes Incorporatedprovides designers of low-currentillumination and signage applicationswith a simplified circuit solution foraccurately controlling 0.5W LEDs.

In addition to their small size, the optocouplersmake a further contribution to space savingsby allowing end-to-end stacking with 2.54mmspacing.

Vishay’s VOM617A and VOM618A lowinput-current optocouplers in the SOP-4 Mini-flat package occupy 30%less space than the common DIP-4package, reducing the PCB real-estateneeded to provide necessaryprotection for equipment users andsensitive electronic circuitry.

The VOM618A is driven from an input currentof only 1mA, while the VOM617A can operatefrom a current of 5mA, and both series providea choice of nine Current-Transfer Ratio (CTR)options from 40% to 600%.

DIODES INCORPORATED

APPLICATIONS• Switched-mode power supplies• AC adapters• Motor drivers• Solar inverters• Home appliances• Network switches• Telecom line cards

FEATURES• Compact SOP-4 Mini-flat package• Save up to 30% PCB space in

comparison to DIP-4 package• End-stackable with 2.54mm (0.100”)

spacing• Nine CTR ranges from 40% to 600%• Low input drive currents down to 1mA• Certified to uL, CSA, VDE, FIMKO, and

CQC safety standards



APPLICATIONS• Isolated offline LED converters• Linear LED driver• LED signs• Instrumentation illumination

FEATURES• 3.5V minimum supply voltage• Low temperature drift• 0.5V reference voltage• High power-supply rejection


my-ftm.com/121108FOR PARTS ANDLATEST PRICINGFairchild’s FLD00042: page 3PARTNERWORKING

Part NumberInput Current Collector-Emitter

VoltageIsolation Test

Voltage Creepage/ClearanceDistance

InsulationThickness Suffix Current-

Transfer Ratio(IF) (VCEO) (VISO)

VOM618A 1mA

80V 3750VRMS ≥5mm ≥0.4mm

None 50%-600%-1 40%-80%-2 63%-125%-3 100%-200%

VOM617A 5mA

-4 160%-320%-5 50%-100%-7 80%-160%-8 130%-260%-9 200%-400%

The devices feature a GaAs infrared emittingdiode, which is optically coupled to a siliconphototransistor, and are certified to safetystandards including the North American uL andCSA standards, European VDE and FIMKOstandards, and the Chinese CQC standard.

Highly integrated LED-backlight boost controllertargets applications up to 400V


High integration and high-voltage capability help reduce componentcount in large LED backlights.

The Fairchild Semiconductor FAN7340is a single-channel boost controller forLED-backlighting applications, offeringextensive programmability, built-inprotection functions and an on-chip400V-rated N-channel MOSFET forPWM dimming.


The IC is designed to act as a constant-current source for driving high-current LEDs,and is capable of maintaining LED-currentregulation within ±1%. The device usescurrent-mode control, and has internalprogrammable slope compensation to preventsub-harmonic oscillation. It supports analogueand PWM dimming, and enables a widePWM-dimming range by allowing on-time tobe varied from 10µs to DC.

The FAN7340 integrates importantprotection functions, including open-LEDprotection, over-voltage protection and direct-short protection to help maximise systemreliability. In addition, the IC’s internal circuitry

generates a signal at the Fault output pin ifabnormal conditions are detected in the LEDstring. The IC also provides an Enable pin, a5V-reference pin, an Error-amplifier output pin,and a pin for setting the boost-switch oscillatorfrequency.

An internal soft-start function is alsoprovided, which prevents inrush currentflowing into the output capacitor at startup.


Next-generation RF power MOSFETs optimised forlatest cellular infrastructures

NXP SEMICONDUCTORS

APPLICATIONS• LTE basestations

(BLF7G24L-160P, BLF7G24LS-160P)• LTE, GSM 900, W-CDMA basestations

(BLF8G10LS-270)• Multi-carrier applications

FEATURES• High efficiency• Designed for broadband operation• Lower output capacitance for improved

performance in Doherty applications• Excellent ruggedness• Low Rth providing excellent thermal

stability



APPLICATIONS• LED-TV backlight control• LCD LED-backlight drivers• General LED-lighting applications

FEATURES• Programmable switching-frequency range:

50kHz-300kHz• Cycle-by-cycle current limiting• 150°C thermal shutdown• External LED current-set/sense pins• 16-pin SOIC package



Avago’s ASMT-YTB7-0AA02: page 3PARTNERWORKING

NXP Semiconductors’ BLF7G24L-160P,BLF7G24LS-160P and BLF8G10LS-270are RF power transistors that deliverhigh drain efficiency and power-handling capability in Dohertyamplifiers for cellular base stationapplications.

The 160W BLF7G24L-160P andBLF7G24LS-160P areoptimised for 4G LTEapplications in thefrequency range2300MHz to2400MHz. Thedevices enablehigh-performanceDoherty amplifiersrunning from a 28Vsupply to achieve up to 42.3% drain efficiencywith 15dB of gain for an average power of45dBm (31.6W) and peak power of 53dB(200W). The two halves of these push-pulldevices can be used as ‘main’ and ‘peak’

transistors to implement a symmetricalDoherty amplifier in a single package, savingPCB size and system cost. The BLF7G24L-160P is a SOT539A bolt-down variant withtwo mounting holes, while the BLF7G24LS-160P is an earless SOT539B device for soldermounting.

The BLF8G10LS-270 is a 270W multi-functional device built using NXP’s latest Gen8LDMOS technology. It meets price-performance requirements in a variety of

Doherty power-amplifierdesigns for high-volume LTE,GSM 900 andW-CDMAapplications.Housed in theearless

SOT502Bpackage, this device

enables designers to achieveincreased output power using an

industry-standard outline. In symmetrical two-way Doherty designs, the BLF8G10LS-270can achieve over 49% efficiency for 869MHz-894MHz and better than 44% for 920MHz-960MHz, with peak power of more than58.3dBm (676W).

All three devices have low output capacitancefor enhanced performance in Dohertyapplications, and are also designed for lowmemory effects to allow pre-distortion. Inaddition, internal matching enhances ease of use.With ESD protection also provided internally,the devices deliver rugged performance underadverse operating conditions.



Feature-rich HDMI-receiver protection IC simplifieslayout and circuit design

NXP SEMICONDUCTORS

Scalable power-management ICs configurable toi.MX 6 processor applications

Moreover, by incorporating Transmission-LineClamping (TLC) technology on the high-speedTransition-Minimised Differential-Signalling(TMDS) lines, the IP4787CZ32 simplifiesrouting and helps to minimise impedancediscontinuities. All TMDS lines are protected byan impedance-matched diode configuration.Appropriate integrated pull-ups and pull-downs for HDMI compliance are alsointegrated, and the device requires only asingle external capacitor for operation.

The 5V power management enables hostaccess to the Extended Display IdentificationData (EDID)) memory even if no HDMI plug isconnected. The overall load to the 5V line isaccording to the HDMI requirements. The DDClines use a buffering concept which decouplesthe internal capacitive load from the externalcapacitive load for use with standard CMOS orLow-Voltage TTL I/O cells down to 1.2V. Thisbuffering also redrives the DDC and CECsignals, allowing the use of longer or lower-cost HDMI cables that have highercapacitance. The internal hot-plug drivemodule simplifies the application of the HDMIreceiver to control the hot-plug signal.

NXP Semiconductors’ IP4787CZ32delivers fully integrated protection forHDMI-receiver interfaces, offering thehighest ESD protection with best RFperformance, simplified signal routingeliminating impedance compensation,level shifting to simplify driving ofHDMI-port control lines, and back-drive protection for reliable operation.

IP4787CZ32provides ESDprotection up to±8kV (contact) for allI/Os in accordancewith the IEC 61000-4-2, level 4 standard,in addition thedevice includes

HDMI 5V power management, Data-DisplayChannel (DDC) buffering and decoupling, hot-plug drive, Consumer Electronic Control (CEC)buffering and decoupling.

FREESCALE

APPLICATIONS• Set-top boxes• PC monitor• Projectors• Multimedia audio amplifiers• HDMI picture performance quality

enhancer modules

FEATURES• Compatible with HDMI 1.3a and 1.4• Companion-chip solution (single

protection chip)• 340MHz pixel-clock and deep-colour

compatibility• Cable-driving capability:

700pF/25m load/length• HDMI Ethernet and Audio return Channel

(HEAC) utility-biasing module• 32-pin HVQFN leadless package



APPLICATIONS• Automotive infotainment• Human-machine interface control• Portable medical devices• Internet appliances• Home-energy management

FEATURES• Buck-regulator output-voltage range:

0.3V to 3.3V• LDO output-voltage range: 0.8V to 3.3V• I2C control interface




DETAILSON PAGE

25

Using a PMIC can significantlysimplify system design andreduce the bill-of-materialscosts. The PF series scalesalongside the i.MX 6 single-,dual- and quad-coreprocessors, integratingfunctionality such as buck, boostand LDO regulators to supply theprocessor, DDR and Flash, and variousperipherals such as sensors, cameras,displays, GPS receiver and Wi-Fi module.

Freescale’s MMPF0100 is the first ina series of Power-ManagementICs (PMICs) that areideally suited for usewith the i.MX 6 series ofCortex™-A9 basedapplications processorsand are capable ofsupplying all the power railsfor a variety of applications.

A Li-ion coin-cell charger is also integrated on-chip.

PF series PMICs are configurable and one-time programmable, allowing developers tooptimise aspects such as the number ofoutputs and individual output voltages, as well

as sequencing and start-uptiming. The buck regulators

can be configured to providea single high-current output

or multiple outputs oflower current. The PF

series is conceived withconsistent register

maps across the seriesto maintain software-driver

compatibility therebysimplifying system

development.The integrated high-

efficiency batterycharger hasprogrammable

charging characteristicsand multiple input

capabilities. Support for theDCD universal charging standard

and USB specifications is also built in.

Also integrated on-chip are LED drivers,general-purpose ADCs, and a real-time clockplus battery-backup support. The devices arequalified for industrial and automotive Grade 3applications.

Flow-through pinnng enables acompact and elegant solution

600V IGBTs increase power density andefficiency for motor-drive applications


The latest-generation silicon delivers better switching performanceand energy efficiency.

A SiP12107-based regulator design is completed with a few small external components.

International Rectifier’s latest-generation Gen7 F 600V Insulated-GateBipolar Transistors (IGBTs) areoptimised for motor-drive applicationsoperating below 10kHz, andincorporate features to enhance powerdensity and energy efficiency.


The punch-through Trench technology of thesedevices enables designers to achieve higherpower density and also to optimise conductionand switching losses for a specific frequencyof operation. In addition, very low saturationvoltage (VCE(ON)) with zero temperature

coefficient raises efficiency across the entireoperating range. The devices also offersmoother switching to reduce EMI andovershoots, and are short-circuit rated formotor-drive applications.

INTERNATIONAL RECTIFIER

High-efficiency buck regulator delivers ultra-fasttransient response

The Vishay SiP12107 synchronous buckregulator uses Current-Mode ConstantOn-Time (CM-COT) control to achieveultra-fast transient response withminimum output capacitance, anddelivers outstanding light-loadperformance including tight rippleregulation and high energy efficiency.

The regulator integrates high-side and low-sideoutput power MOSFETs, and iscapable of supplying 3Acontinuous current at a switchingfrequency of up to 4MHz. TheMOSFETs are optimised to achieve95% efficiency at 2MHz switchingfrequency. The output voltage isadjustable down to 0.6V, from aninput rail of 2.8V to 5.5V.

The SiP12107 incorporates apower-saving scheme thatimplements diode-emulation modeand frequency foldback as theload reduces, which significantly

VISHAY increases light-load efficiency. The CM-COTcontrol minimises the number of externalcomponents required to complete the design.By using internal current-ramp information, theregulator has no need for a high-ESR outputbulk capacitor or virtual-ESR network toensure loop stability.

A full set of protection and monitoringfeatures is also built-in, including over-currentprotection in pulse-by-pulse mode, outputover-voltage protection, output under-voltageprotection with device latch, over-temperatureprotection with hysteresis, a dedicated Enablepin for easy power sequencing, and an open-drain Power-good indicator pin.

The IRG7RC10FD and IRG7IC30FD are co-packaged with a soft-recovery diode while theIRG7SC12F is a single IGBT that providesfreedom for designers to choose a desireddiode for the target application.

Two motor-control reference designsfeaturing Gen7 F IGBTs are available. TheIRMDKG7-400W features the IRG7RC10FDDPAK IGBT and IRS2334S 3-phase High-Voltage IC (HVIC) driver for motors up to 400W.The IRMDKG7-600W is a similar referencedesign for applications up to 600W. Bothreference designs include an optional heatsink.

APPLICATIONS• Server power architectures• Telecom Point-of-Load (POL) converters• Industrial controls and automation• Handheld devices• Consumer products

FEATURES• Space-saving 3mm x 3mm MLPQ 16-lead

package• Scalable with SiP12108, 5A alternative• Selectable power-saving mode or force-

current mode• ±1% accuracy• Stable with small ceramic output

capacitors



APPLICATIONS• Refrigerator compressors• Air conditioners• Vacuum cleaners• Low-frequency inverters

FEATURES• Square Reverse-Biased Safe Operating

Area (RBSOA)• Rugged transient performance• 3µs short-circuit capability



Freescale’s Kinetis KL0: page 4NXP’s PSMN1R6-40YLC: page 11PARTNERWORKING

Part Number Package Max. Continuous CollectorCurrent (@100°C)

Collector-emitter SaturationVoltage (@ 25°C) Speed

IRG7RC10FD DPAK 9A 1.6V 1-10kHz

IRG7IC30FD TO-220FP 12A 1.6V 1-10kHz

IRG7SC12F D2PAK 13A 1.6V 1-10kHz



Variable-gain amplifiers boost performance, savepower in cable and wireless applications

Fairchild's IGBTs can enable new appliance designs to qualify forgreener energy labels.

NXP SEMICONDUCTORS

High-efficiency IGBTs help boostappliance energy ratings

Available with current ratings from 5A to 15A,these 600V IGBTs minimise power loss andreduce power dissipation by featuring lowsaturation voltage (VCE(sat)), enabling appliancedesigners to meet stringent ecodesignguidelines and achieve the highest energy-rating targets. The devices offer 10µs short-circuit withstand time under specified testconditions, while also supporting fastswitching speeds to provide increased systemefficiency.

The FGB7N60UNDF and FGB5N60UNDFfeature extremely low saturation voltage,delivering an efficiency advantage inapplications where most losses are incurred inthe on-state.

For applications where high switchingperformance is needed, the FGP10N60UNDF/FGP15N60UNDF and FGPF10N60UNDF/

Fairchild Semiconductor’s latest 600Vshort-circuit rated IGBTs allow designersto optimise for minimum on-state orswitching losses when creating 3-phasemotor drives offering increasedefficiency, power density and reliability.


APPLICATIONS• WiMAX and cellular basestations• Wireless point-to-point systems and

repeaters• Cable-modem termination systems• Temperature-compensation circuits• Intermediate-Frequency (IF) and Radio-

Frequency (RF) circuitry

FEATURES• Noise figure at maximum gain: 7dB/6.5dB

(BGA7204/BGA7210)• Output Third-Order Intercept (IP3O):

38dB/39.5dB (BGA7204/BGA7210)• Single 5V supply• Integrated temperature sensor (BGA7204)• ESD protection on all pins



APPLICATIONS• Fan-motor drivers• Circulation pumps• Refrigerator compressors• Dishwashers

FEATURES• ±20V maximum gate-emitter voltage• High input impedance• Operating junction temperature range:

-55°C to 150°C• 2.2V maximum diode forward voltage




DETAILSON PAGE

25

The BGA7204 and BGA7210 6-bitVariable-Gain Amplifiers (VGAs) fromNXP Semiconductors providehigh linearity and highoutput power across a largebandwidth withoutrequiring externalmatching, and deliveradditional advantagessuch as smart routingand unique power-savecapabilities.

The devices are suitable for operationfrom 0.4GHz to 2.7GHz for theBG17204 and 0.7GHz to 3.8GHz for theBGA7210, with an attenuation range of31.5dB, and achieve linearity of 35dBm at themaximum output power of 21dBm from2.2GHz to 2.8GHz.

The BGA7204 provides SPI and parallelports, and gain can be adjusted via eitherinterface. Programming via the SPI port offers

advanced features such as reprogramming theattenuation curve and on-chip temperaturemonitoring. The interfaces can be combined tosupport response to fast fading; the serialinterface can be used to pre-set the desiredgain level, and the parallel interface can beused to adjust the setting within 0.15µs.

The BGA7210 allows the current draw tobe adjusted according to theattenuation setting, to help

optimise overall systemperformance. The current

and attenuation level arecontrolled through the

SPI port, allowing thecurrent to be reduced to

120mA. Optimal linearity isobtained at 185mA. This

unique power-savingfunctionality can effectively

reduce current draw in TDDsystems by up to 45%.

Both devices also have aPower-down pin to further reduceconsumption in idle mode. The pin-outs areoptimised to help designers avoid connectioncrosses, thereby simplifying design andallowing up to 25% saving in PCB footprint.

Part Number CurrentRating

Saturation Voltage (VCE(sat),Typical @ Rated Current) Turn-off Energy (Eoff) Package

FGB5N60UNDF 5A 1.9V 0.07mJTO-263AB (D2PAK)

FGB7N60UNDF 7A 1.9V 104µJFGP10N60UNDF 10A 2.0V 0.05mJ

TO-220FGP15N60UNDF 15A 2.2V 0.11mJFGPF10N60UNDF 10A 2.0V 0.08mJ

TO-220FFGPF15N60UNDF 15A 2.2V 0.11mJ

FGPF15N60UNDF have extremely low turn-offswitching energy (Eoff), which enables designersto minimise losses when using higherswitching frequencies in the region of 15kHz.

120V AC panel LED saves up to 70% of costand 50% of space


Lumex high-voltage LED indicators can be driven from a convenient supply railwith little or no voltage conversion required.

The Lumex QuasarBrite™ family ofpanel-mount indicator LEDsincludes a 120V AC LED thateliminates the need for AC/DCtransformers and thereby allowsdesigners to gain significant costand space savings.


By eliminating the need for an AC/DCpower transformer, using the QuasarBritehigh-voltage AC LED instead of a low-voltage DC LED can save up to 50% ofreal-estate behind the front panel inproducts such as industrial equipment,commercial appliances and many othercontrol and monitoring applications.

Compared to incandescent bulbs operating athigh AC voltages, the QuasarBrite 120V ACLED can last up to 10 times longer, use 90%less energy, and be more resistant to

LUMEX

NXP SEMICONDUCTORS

environmental stresses such as shock andtemperature variation. The LEDs also deliverfaster on/off performance than incandescentbulbs.

APPLICATIONS• Cordless telephones• Digital cameras• Mobile internet devices• Portable test equipment• Data loggers• Point-of-load applications

FEATURES• 35µA quiescent current (0.1µA shutdown

mode)• 40µVRMS typical output noise voltage

at 10Hz to 100kHz• 150µs turn-on time• Integrated ESD protection up to 6kV (HBM)



APPLICATIONS• Solar-panel monitors• Wind-turbine equipment• Gas- or liquid-flow meters• Commercial fryers• Thermal test chambers

FEATURES• No AC/DC power conversion needed• Selectable wire length: 150mm to 1.8m• Variety of connector options• Colour varieties:

blue, white, red, yellow, green• Custom sizes available



The NXP Semiconductors LD6815TDseries of Low Drop-Out (LDO) regulatorshave ultra-high Power-Supply RejectionRatio (PSRR) of 75dB and a voltage dropof 250mV at the maximum outputcurrent of 150mA, thereby enhancingbattery lifetime and operating stability.

The LD6815 joins the same family as the150mA high-PSRR low-voltage LD6806TDLDOs, expanding the choice of packagevariants available to designers. The 2.9mm x

1.5mm x 1.0mm SOT753 (SOT23-5) packageof the LD6815TD series has high thermalefficiency to facilitate optimal heat dissipation.

Capable of operating from a supply between2.3V and 5.5V, and producing a fixed outputvoltage in the range 1.2V to 3.6V, theLD6815TD is suited for low-voltage analogueand digital interfaces, powering MCUs, andgeneral point-of-load applications.

The LD6815TD series comprises 20devices, spanning the range of availableoutput voltages and providing a choice of H-type or P-type devices. The H-type variantshave a high-ohmic state at the output pinwhen set to disabled mode. P-type deviceshave a pull-down switching transistor forapplications requiring auto discharge.

Part Number Emitted Colour Intensity Viewing Angle Voltage

SSI-LXR9126SGD110V Super ultra green 60mcd 60° 120V AC

SSI-LXR9126SID110V Super high-intensity red 100mcd 60° 120V AC

SSI-LXR9126SYD110V Super yellow 170mcd 60° 120V AC

Part Reference Output Voltage Part Reference Output Voltage

LD6815TD/12H 1.2V LD6815TD/28H 2.8VLD6815TD/15H 1.5V LD6815TD/29H 2.9VLD6815TD/18H 1.8V LD6815TD/30H 3.0VLD6815TD/21H 2.1V LD6815TD/33H 3.3VLD6815TD/25H 2.5V LD6815TD/36H 3.6VLD6815TD/12P 1.2V LD6815TD/28P 2.8VLD6815TD/15P 1.5V LD6815TD/29P 2.9VLD6815TD/18P 1.8V LD6815TD/30P 3.0VLD6815TD/21P 2.1V LD6815TD/33P 3.3VLD6815TD/25P 2.5V LD6815TD/36P 3.6V

Low drop-out regulators enhance stability and efficiency


Superjunction technology plus clip-bond package boost 5mm x6mm MOSFET performance

NXP SEMICONDUCTORSAPPLICATIONS

• DC/DC converters• Load switches• Power OR-ing• Server power supplies• Synchronous-rectifier converters

FEATURES• 100A maximum drain current• 59nC total gate charge @ VGS = 4.5V• 15.3nC gate-drain charge• 38.7nC output charge



NXP Semiconductors has combined itslatest-generation TrenchMOStechnology with LFPAK56clip-bonding assemblyto create thePSMN1R6-40YLCpower MOSFEToffering industry-leading performancein the 5mm x 6mmPowerSO8 packageoutline.

The PSMN1R6-40YLC is a 40V N-channeldevice offering very low on-state resistance of1.55mΩ when connected directly to a logic-level gate-drive signal. NXP has achieved thislevel of performance by optimising the devicefor 4.5V operation using NextPowerSuperjunction technology.

NXP’s superjunction technology also allowsthe PSMN1R6-40YLC to achieve low gate

charge, gate-drain charge and outputcharge, and hence maintain high system

efficiency at low and high loads. ThePSMN1R6-40YLC also has ultra-lowparasitic inductance.

The PowerSO8 package is qualifiedto 150°C, allowing use in applicationsrequiring high reliability.

The PSMN1R6-40YLC is part of thewider product family that also contains thePSMN1R8-40YLC and PSMN023-40YLC.

Miniature lightning-sensor IC detects stormsat up to 40km distance

Storm warning in silicon enables systems to respond automatically to potential electrical hazards

The AMS AS3935 Franklin LightningSensor™ IC enables truly portabledetection equipment capable ofcalculating distance-to-storm from40km down to 1km.

Equipment featuring this device can give userssuch as golfers, hikers, cyclists, sports playersor outdoor-event organisers an early warningof dangerous weather conditions. Businessapplications includeautomatic advanceddetection ofenvironmentalelectrical hazards forequipment such asnetwork or powerinfrastructure.

For people engagedin outdoor pursuits, orthose workingoutdoors, the extratime that a lightningsensor can providecould mean thedifference between lifeand death. Unaided,humans can typicallyhear thunder at adistance of about10km. This can often

AMS

APPLICATIONS• Portable personal weather detectors• Weather stations• Sports equipment• GPS terminals• Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)• Power conditioners• Telecom equipment• Smart grids

FEATURES• Distance estimation to head of the storm • Detection of cloud-to-ground and cloud-

to-cloud flashes • False-disturbance rejection • Programmable detection levels• Automatic antenna tuning • Supply voltage range: 2.4V to 5.5V • Power-down, listening and active modes



leave too little time to find shelter when in thepath of a fast-moving, highly active electricalstorm.

Until now, portable sensing equipment hasbeen relatively cumbersome, inaccurate andprone to false alerts from man-made signals.With the introduction of the AS3935, housedin a 4mm x 4mm 16-pin MLPQ package, it isnow possible for the first time to incorporatesensor technology into a wide variety ofportable instruments.

The device contains a sensitive RF receiverwhich detects the electrical emissions fromlightning activity. A proprietary algorithm thenconverts the RF signal into an estimation ofthe distance to the head of the storm.


Freescale’s Kinetis KL0: page 4Vishay’s SiP12107: page 8PARTNERWORKING

A typical application requires only a simplemicrocontroller with a SPI or I2C interface andseven other passive components allowing it tofit easily in a space about the size of a wirelesscar-key fob. With multiple low-power modesand listening-mode current consumption of60µA, the AS3935 requires only a smallbattery for a long operating lifetime.



Slim in-line, wire-to-wire connectors ensuresecure locking in confined spaces

The DF62 series makes a compact, elegant and reliable connection.

Hirose DF62 series connectors aredesigned for applications needing wire-to-wire connections inside small andnarrow spaces.

HIROSE

APPLICATIONS• Robots• Portable medical devices• LED lighting• Servo amplifiers• Gaming equipment• Home appliances

FEATURES• Number of contact positions: 2 - 7, 13 • 3A maximum current rating• 2.2mm x 2mm pitch• Secure positive lock• AWG22 to AWG30 cable size• 250V voltage rating



P.I.E.S E C T I O N

Latest tantalum chip-capacitor families meet demands for high voltageratings, very low leakage and fused operation

Vishay's TANTAMOUNT tantalum chip-capacitor families deliver the performance designers need to satisfy a wide range of applications.

VISHAY

Three families of TANTAMOUNT®

tantalum chip capacitors from Vishay,the TR3, TL3 and TF3 series, havearrived to satisfy key demands ofdesigners seeking high-rating, very lowDC-Leakage current (DCL) for battery-operated products and high-performing rugged, fused capacitorsfor mission-critical applications.

APPLICATIONSTR3

• Aircraft power supplies• Sensor applications• Industrial controls• Basestations

TL3• Portable instrumentation• Medical technology• Local power supplies• Handheld instruments• Battery-operated devices

TF3• Industrial electronics• Medical instrumentation• Diagnostic and control equipment• High-end computing and data storage• Telecom basestations

FEATURESGeneral TANTAMOUNT chip-capacitor

• Low ESR• High surge-current reliability• High stability over time and temperature• Wide range of voltage ratings and

industry-standard case formats



The mated length of the DF62 plug and socketis only 18.6mm, while the low-profileconnector housings ensure the height andwidth are both under 10mm. Complementingits small size, the connector outline iscontoured to prevent it from being trapped in aconfined space during the wiring process.

Secure locking of the connector isguaranteed, with a positive lock that providesa clear tactile sensation and an audible click toconfirm correct engagement. The visible lockstructure has a slot to allow a visual check ofcomplete mating. Despite its small size, theconnector system achieves lock strength of 50N.Highly reliable crimp contacts provide strongresistance against rough operation andvibration. The female contact has a box-shaped contact head that works as a matingguide to align the male contact. This facilitatessmooth mating and prevents contacts frombuckling. Furthermore the crimp contact hastwo special contact points that protrudeslightly to follow the surface of the male

The TR3 series comprises low-ESR devices involtage ratings up to 63V. This high voltagerating allows the capacitors to meet deratingrequirements of 50% of the rated voltage in28V applications. Until now, designers havetypically been forced to rely on 50V devices,which are not fully able to comply withderating requirements for these types ofapplications. The devices can also be used asless expensive options for decoupling in 63Vapplications and DC/DC conversion at 35V.

The TL3 series comprises the industry’s firstsurface-mount tantalum moulded chipcapacitors to offer DCL as low as 0.005 CV.This capability delivers advantages for systemdesigners, such as the ability to extend run-time in battery-powered devices. Devices areoffered in the five standard EIA case codesfrom type A to type E, and with standard orlow-ESR options. Capacitance values rangefrom 0.1µF to 470µF, in voltage ratings from4V DC to 50V DC. Case codes B, C, D, and Eare 100% surge-current tested and offeroutstanding reliability of 0.5%/1,000 hours.

Finally, the TF3 series features a built-in fuseand provides a very high level of protectionagainst short circuits allowing use in safety-critical applications. The internal electronicfusing mechanism activates within 0.1 secondwith a minimum of 5A applied at 25°C. Thisseries covers capacitance values from 0.47µFto 470µF in case codes C, D, and E, in voltageratings from 4V to 50V. High ripple-currentcarrying capability, and ESR down to 0.25Ω at25°C and 100kHz, allows use in high-currentapplications of 10A and over where high levelsof safety are required.

contact during the mating process giving amore durable connection. The lance area ofthe crimp contact is reinforced to prevent thecable being pulled out. The lance strength is25N/pin using AWG28 cable.

TF3 TL3 TR3



Fast, small, thermally-protected varistors carry industry’shighest voltage ratings

The space-efficient varistors respond quickly and deal effectively with dangerous electrical transients.

LITTELFUSE

Thermally-protected varistors facilitatecompliance with UL 1449 3rd Edition

The varistors provide effective circuit protectionby clamping over-voltages to a safe level andproviding high energy-absorption and surge-current handling capabilities. The internalsafety thermal element is located in closeproximity to the varistor disc, which ensuresfast thermal response. This configuration alsooffers lower inductance than most discretesolutions resulting in improved clampingperformance in the event of a fast over-voltagetransient.

The device also has an integrated microswitch that operates when the MOV is

disconnected from thesystem power(protected circuit) andtherefore can be usedto indicate the Varistor(MOV) status.Importantly, the microswitch is completelyisolated from the maincircuit.

The TCMOV34Sseries offers a Short-Circuit Current Rating(SCCR) of 200kA, aswell as peak surge-current handling of up

Littelfuse TCMOV34S, SMOV34, andSMOV25 series 34mm and 25mmsquare-format varistors simplify designby integrating a thermal element thatwill open-circuit the varistor safely inthe event of overheating caused byprolonged abnormal over-voltageconditions, as outlined in UL 1449.

to 50kA and up to 960J non-repetitive energycapability.

The SMOV25 series handles peak surgecurrents up to 20kA and has 670J non-repetitive energy capability. Comparableratings for the SMOV34 series are 40kA and1200J.LITTELFUSE

APPLICATIONS• Surge-Protective Device (SPD) modules• Solar-power inverters• High-voltage power supplies• LED luminaires• AC-panel protection modules and power

meters• Strip connectors• Uninterruptible power supplies

FEATURES• Temperature coefficient of clamping

voltage (at specified test current):0.01%/°C

• 600V thermal-protection isolation voltage• UR, IEC and VDA agency approvals• Standard lead-form and spacing option• Operating temperature range:

-55°C to 85°C



APPLICATIONS• Surge-Protection Device (SPD) modules• Power generation and distribution• Telecommunication systems• Industrial controls• Inverters and power supplies

FEATURES• Recognised to UL 1449 Third Edition• Operating-temperature range:

-45°C to 75°C• Nominal discharge-current value:

20kA: 34mm types10kA: 25mm types



P.I.E.S E C T I O N

The devices, which feature a25mm or 34mm varistor discrespectively, are part ofLittelfuse’s Thermally-Protected MOV (TMOV®)portfolio, and are designedto suppress voltagetransients by clamping them to a safelevel. The integrated thermal protection allowsthe MOV to disconnect safely from theprotected circuit when subjected to eventsthat can cause excessive heat, such as asustained overvoltage, as outlined in UL 1449.

The patented integrated thermal elementopens in the event of overheating due toabnormal over-voltages, and is positioned near

the component body thus ensuring compactcomponent dimensions and fast thermalresponse. Integrated thermal protection alsolowers inductance compared to discretesolutions, resulting in improved clampingresponse to fast over-voltage transients.

With a smaller outline than the 34mm type,the TMOV25S series is suitable for use inluminaires. The devices also pass the latestUS-government surge-immunity standards foroutdoor LED lighting. In addition, their highpeak-current rating of 20kA helps circuit

designers to meet the latestrequirements for Surge-Protective

Devices (SPD Type 1).Devices in the TMOV34Sseries have surgecapability up to 40kA. This

series provides the optionof a 3-leaded version with a

monitor lead that can beconnected to signalling circuitry

to indicate if the MOV has been disconnectedfrom the circuit, owing to an over-temperatureevent. The two-leaded version of theTMOV34S series, without indicator option,uses the same pin layout as standard 34mmvaristors, and so can replace such deviceswithout the need for a board redesign.

Littelfuse TMOV25S and TMOV34Sseries Metal-Oxide Varistors (MOVs)carry UL 1449 recognition to 750V AC,which is higher than any other varistorin the market. They also integratethermal protection within more compactdimensions than alternative devices.

my-ftm.com/121125

Hall A4.259

RF & Wireless Solutionson show at:

D E S I G N N O T E



In this Design Note, Vicor explains a new power architecturecapable of meeting system demands more effectively thantoday’s intermediate bus architectures, as electronicsystems continue to migrate toward lower voltages andhigher operating currents.

In the drive to reduce distribution losses and improve overall systemefficiency and density, power architectures have evolved from acentralised approach to the Distributed Power Architecture (DPA) and,more recently, the Intermediate Bus Architecture (IBA). Today, IBA isgenerally the preferred choice to tackle the widespread proliferation of ICloads across system boards.

As device loads, such as state-of-the-art microprocessor chips, logicICs and memory modules, move towards operating voltages of less than1 volt, with current consumption of more than 100 amperes and load-step demands reaching nanoseconds, traditional power architectureslike the IBA are approaching a dead-end. To surmount the limitations oftraditional distributed architectures, and meet the new emerging systemrequirements of higher power density at lower output voltages withhigher load currents and efficiencies requires a very different approach.

For addressing these new challenges in modern electronic systems,Vicor developed the Factorised Power Architecture® (FPA®). FPA employsadvanced topologies like ZVS buck-boost and Sine AmplitudeConverter™ in a modular product line which offers high efficiency,increased power density, and enhanced flexibility for designing optimalsolutions for performance-critical applications.

Principles of the FPABy separating the classic functions of the traditional DC/DC converterand ‘factorising’ regulation, isolation and voltage transformation intoflexible, high-performance Vicor VI Chip™ devices as building blocks, asshown in Figure 1, FPA significantly cuts distribution and interconnectlosses to improve power-conversion efficiency. The VI Chip PRM®

regulator and VTM® current multiplier enhances the power density of thesolution and provides greater than 1MHz response speed.

The high power density of these modules enables more functionality inthe same space and permits the design of a more powerful system witha smaller and lighter power solution.

In a FPA system, the PRM module generates a controlled bus voltagecalled the ‘factorised bus’, and the VTM module transforms thefactorised-bus voltage to deliver an isolated voltage to the Point-Of-Load(POL). The essential function of the VTM module is current multiplicationor voltage division by a factor of K.

By Stephen Oliver, VP, VI Chip Product Line, Vicor Corporation

VICOR

Fig. 1: The FPA significantly improves energy delivery to the application across all load conditions.

Using factorised power architecture to satisfylow-voltage, high-current system demands

The VTM can deliver energy to the load throughout the entire conversioncycle or offer 100% transformation duty cycle. By relocating theregulation function to the upstream PRMs, the VTMs are not limited bythe inductive inertia and can respond virtually instantaneously to achanging load.

The PRM uses a patented ZVS buck-boost control architecture torealise high efficiency step-up/step-down voltage regulation. Theefficiency is maximised when the output voltage is close to the inputvoltage. The PRM operates at a 1.5MHz maximum switching frequencyand can be paralleled to achieve increased output power.

PRM Regulator key features include:• Input ranges of 18V-36V and 36V-75V• Power up to 400W• Power density up to 1300W/in3• Efficiency up to 97%• 1.5MHz switching frequency• Up to 125°C operation

The VTM, which is a fixed-ratio DC/DC Sine Amplitude Converter®, offersa wide voltage-range input with high-efficiency voltage transformationusing proprietary Zero Current Switching Zero Voltage Switching (ZCS-ZVS) topology.

The VTM Current Multiplier key features include:• Input range compatible with 48V and 24V PRMs• Power over 300W or up to 130A• Power density up to 1,095W/in3• Efficiency up to 96%• Isolation to 2,250V DC in 1.1in2 package• Low power dissipation at point of load• Low output impedance enabling fast transient response

ConclusionFactorised Power Architecture enables the design of optimal powersolutions for many performance-critical applications. FPA is a whole-system approach that focuses on the design of smaller, cooler andquieter systems with energy-cost reductions and higher performancethan traditional power solutions.

As critical systems such as power infrastructures, financialservices, data management and personal communicationsmove towards ever more pervasive and interconnectedcomputing, equipment manufacturers must take steps toprotect their own IP and to ensure the security and safety ofcustomers. This Design Note by Freescale examines thenumerous aspects that must be addressed to keepembedded systems secure.

Today’s embedded systems face a long list of potential security threatsaiming to steal the product manufacturer’s intellectual property orcompromise the correct functioning of the application. These threatsgenerally fall into one of three main categories:

• Eavesdropping: Someone accesses information without modifying it.The end-user might make a decision without knowing that someoneelse has seen sensitive information, resulting in serious financial andpersonal damages for the end-user

• Tamper: Someone modifies information without the approval of themanufacturer or the end-user

• Impersonation: Someone pretends to be another person to obtain anend-user’s confidence or a manufacturer’s approval

A successful response to these types of challenges demands a multi-faceted technical solution capable of protecting the system at everystage of development from pre-production to each time the system isstarted up and used or if software/firmware is updated in the field.Freescale has a long-established IC security team dedicated to applyingspecialist expertise and advancing the company’s legacy of securitysolutions, and is able to support customers with enablement solutionssuch as IP blocks, reference designs and tools including code-signingtools that help to simplify design and reduce time to market.

The following sections discuss technical solutions required to preventhackers from modifying the content of information and services. Thesolutions must comply with certain basic concepts such as integrity, toassure the receiver of the information that no-one has altered thecontent; authentication, to ensure that the information originates fromthe expected sender; confidentiality, to protect active information byusing a concealing mechanism; and non-repudiation, to ensure that thesender cannot deny that the information was sent.

Secure bootIn systems that use a rich OS requiring external Flash memory for codestorage, reading and writing of the manufacturer code creates aweakness for the entire system. Secure boot describes a mechanismthat effectively creates a secure path to ensure that the code residing inthe Flash will always be the same as the code embedded during themanufacturing phase. This meets necessary integrity and authenticationcriteria. Figure 1 illustrates code-signature verification, which is oneelement of the secure boot mechanism and is performed during boot-upusing a secure hash algorithm. If the result R1 differs from R2, thesignature will not be verified.

CryptographyCryptography is critical for code checking at secure boot and duringrun-time. The goal of cryptography is to obscure sensitive data tounauthorised users. The essential concept consists of safely maintaininga key known to only a few parties, and using this to encrypt or decryptthe message. Two techniques available today are symmetric orasymmetric cryptography.

Symmetric cryptography is used for data encryption and data integritydue to its high-performance characteristics. Exchanging large files isfeasible with this concept, although decrypting the message requiresthat the keys are received safely and securely. The foundations of thisconcept are based on ways to send the keys and prevent an attack. Ifan attacker is able to obtain the keys through malicious ways, theencrypted message becomes easily readable. Well known symmetricalgorithms include AES, DES and 3DES.

Asymmetric key cryptography relies on mathematically related privateand public keys, where one message encrypted with one key can onlybe decrypted by the other keys. The private key must be protected andis provided only to trusted parties, while the public key can be deployedin the field. Asymmetric cryptography can be used for short messageswith slow decryption mechanisms, and is commonly used for keyexchange, attestation and authentication. Well known asymmetricalgorithms include RSA, DSA and ECDSA.

Run-time integrity checkingAfter booting is complete, the OS and application software becomevulnerable to run-time attacks. In this case the attacker waits until afterthe secure boot has authenticated the OS and then attempts to modifythe OS kernel to change the operating behaviour of the system.

Run-Time Integrity Checking (RTIC) can protect against such attacksand occurs in two stages. First, a reference cryptographic hash iscomputed during secure boot as part of the authentication process. Thisreference hash is then stored. In the second stage, periodiccryptographic hashes are computed over the same software that wasauthenticated during the secure boot phase. The computed hashes are

compared with the storedreference hash. Anydifference between the twohash values indicates thesoftware has been modifiedafter authentication.

Task separationTask separation is critical ina secure system as itprevents entrusted tasksfrom interfering with anyother task. A Memory-Management Unit (MMU)can enforce suchrestrictions.

FREESCALE


D E S I G N N O T E

Anatomy of a secure-

Fig. 1: Signature verification using SHA-1 Secure Hash Algorithm.

computing solutionD E S I G N N O T E



Unique identificationProtecting the end-product IP is a key goal for product manufacturers.One of the first steps consists of having a unique ID for each productwhich can be programmed by burning an electrical fuse.

Tamper detectionThe purpose of a tamper-detection mechanism is to provide evidence ofany physical attempt to gain access to the system. The specificembedded mechanism drives to zeroing the sensitive data stored in theembedded memory. This information can be a secret key or any otherpersonal data. Customers in market segments such as e-payments andfinancial-services companies have established highly detailedrequirements in the area of tamper detection.

Random numbersRandom numbers are often required for direct use as secret keys, per-message secrets, random challenges and other similar quantities used incryptographic algorithms. A random-number generator accelerator,implemented in hardware in the processor, provides random data createdby clocking shift registers with clocks derived from ring oscillators.

Secure debugAnother opportunity for hackers is to read the on-chip RAM where the codedisplays in plain text. The JTAG port represents the link to access the RAM.While protecting the JTAG requires specific implementation, the port mayneed to stay accessible to allow test, debugging or device programmingduring technical bring-up, on the production line, or in the field.

A number of debug modes are supported, offering various levels ofsecurity. No-debug mode provides the maximum security by permanentlyblocking all sensitive JTAG features. On the other hand, secure-JTAGmode provides high security by regulating JTAG use through challenge-response authentication. Lower-security modes, in which the JTAG portis always enabled, are also available.

Secure-computing platformAs product manufacturers become increasingly dependent on innovativeIP to maintain their market position, protection mechanisms such assecure boot, real-time integrity checking, secure JTAG and encryptionare key assets. Freescale’s i.MX solutions portfolio implementstechnology such as signature-based or encrypted boot-up, RTIC,random-number generation, on-chip OTP space, hardware encryptionengine, secure debugging and tamper-resistance/detection features, tohelp developers to lower system costs while simplifying developmentand accelerating time to market.

Example: ePOS application with DryIce blockFreescale has developed a secure electronic Point of Sale (ePOS)application, based on the i.MX processor family. The application takesadvantage of the DryIce real-time security-monitoring module featured inthe i.MX 258, which provides a trusted and certifiable time source forDigital-Rights Management (DRM), and also allows volatile storage ofencryption keys together with robust tamper detection and secure-keyerase. The application is now certified to the applicable Payment CardIndustry (PCI) and PIN-Transaction Security (PTS 3.0) standards.

Freescale’s i.MX microprocessor portfolio implements a rich selectionof security technology to address the complex requirements for securityapplications, as summarised in Table 1. This helps to simplifydevelopment, enabling faster time to market and lower system costs.

*JTAG support can be disabled via e-fuse. **On-chip storage only. *** Works with main power applied only.Table 1: Illustrating the high-level security blocks required to protect manufacturers’ products and the corresponding Freescale i.MX processors.

SECURITY BLOCKS IMPLEMENTED IN i.MX PROCESSORS

Categories/Featuresi.MX Application Processor Families

i.MX233 i.MX25x i.MX28x i.MX35x i.MX50x i.MX51x i.MX53x

ARM® Core 926EJ-S 926EJ-S 926EJ-S 1136FJ-S Cortex™-A8 Cortex™-A8 Cortex™-A8

ARM TrustZone Support N N N N Y Y Y

High Assurance Boot (Digital Signature Based) N HABv3 HABv4 HABv3 HABv4 HABv3 HABv4

Encrypted Boot Y N Y N N N N

Secure Storage DCP** SCC/DRYICE DCP** SCC SCC SCC SCC

On-Chip Secure RAM N 2KB N 2KB N 16 x 8KB 4 x 4KB

Real-Time Security Monitoring N SCC/DRYICE N SCC SCC SCC SCC

Hardware CryptographicAcceleration AES-128 N AES-128 N N

AES-128, DES, 3DES, ARC4,SHA-1,

SHA-256

AES-128, DES, 3DES, ARC4,SHA-1,

SHA-256

True Random Number Generator N Y N Y Y Y Y

Run-Time Integrity Check N Y N Y Y Y Y

Tamper Resistant Real-Time Clockand Monotonic Counter N DRYICE N N SRTC SRTC SRTC

Secure Debugging N* Y N* Y Y Y Y

On-Chip OTP Space Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Physical Tamper Detection N SCC/DRYICE N N N SCC*** SCC***


Faster computing, the falling cost of network connectivity,and the convenience of Power over Ethernet allowsophisticated fire and security systems to be installed at acompetitive price. This Design Note from Littelfusediscusses the design of transient protection to ensurereliability and network functionality for a long service life.

Ethernet protection needsModern commercial or industrial fire and security systems often useEthernet to connect detection elements such as video cameras,temperature sensors or door/window-intrusion sensors to a centralmonitoring station and recorder. Some systems may also use Powerover Ethernet (PoE) to power-up devices such as cameras, which cansave cost and provide greater flexibility for system designers andinstallers. The use of PoE, the specific Ethernet version used, such as100BaseT or Gigabit Ethernet, and whether equipment is installedindoors or outdoors, will determine the circuit-protection devices needed.

From an application standpoint, the basic question to be answered iswhether user-generated ESD is the only threat, or if the Ethernet portswill be exposed to lightning transients. For installations in which anEthernet port is connected to a local switch or indoor camera, there islittle likelihood of lightning coupling into the circuit. A TVS diode arraywith capacitance of about 4pF or less, as shown in Figure 1, can

provide adequate ESDprotection since the data ratewill probably be greater than orequal to 100Mbit/s.

Where cable runs may belonger than 100m, and/orEthernet hardware is installedclose to electrical hardwaresuch as AC power cables, thefollowing recommendations mayapply: ITU K.44 for resistibilityrequirements; and then thelocation-specific document: ITUK.20 for the telecommunicationcentre; ITU K.21 for the customer

premises location; and ITU K.45 for between telecommunication centresand customer premises. In these cases, more robust cascade protectionis required. If the Ethernet circuit includes a transformer capable ofwithstanding and limiting lightning transients, it may be possible to useonly PHY-side protection.

Outdoor systems need substantially more protection, as the likelihoodof directly coupled lighting transients is very high. Here the ITU K.44 andmost likely the ITU K.45 recommendations apply. Due to the extremelyhigh surge energy, SIDACtor devices are required for the Ethernet line-side. For the PHY-side of thetransformer, a TVS-diode array isinstalled to handleany energy that is letthrough by the line-side protection. Anexample of thiscascaded protectionscheme is illustratedin Figure 2.

PoE protectionPoE greatly simplifies the installation of any Ethernet data-communicationsnetwork, but adds another facet to the protection scheme since a powersupply is typically connected to the Ethernet lines, both on the PowerSourcing Equipment (PSE) side and in the Powered Devices (PDs) thatuse the power, such as an IP camera. The PSE and PDs must beprotected, in addition to protecting Ethernet data lines.

With PoE, the system designer must also consider whether power willbe delivered in Mode A or Mode B. Since 100BaseT Ethernet only usestwo of the available signal pairs, power can be delivered on the spare pair(Mode A) or on the signal pair (Mode B). For 1000BaseT, the power maybe delivered over Mode A with RJ-45 pins 1-2 and 3-6, or Mode B withRJ-45 pins 4-5 and 7-8, in which both wire pairs are used for signalling.

A common solution for PoE circuits is to use TeleLink fuses for over-current protection, and bidirectional TVS diodes across the power

supply. Figure 3illustrates how theTVS diode is placed inthe circuit for a PD tobe compatible withboth Mode A andMode B. ASMAJ58CAbidirectional TVSdiode will stand-offthe line voltageregardless of polarity.For more robustprotection, a LittelfuseSMB, SMC, or SMDversion can be used.The fuses are used in

applications that must comply with safety standards such as IEC/EN60950-1.

As with standard Ethernet systems, inter-building PoE installations willbe likely to need more robust protection against lightning-induced surges.Since the energy in these surges will exceed the capability of moststandard single TVS diodes, a SIDACtor device can provide bidirectionalprotection for both Mode A and Mode B PoE. This is shown in Figure 4.

The Littelfuse Ethernet Design Guide, available online, has moredetailed information on data-port protection.

LITTELFUSE


D E S I G N N O T E

Transient protection for networked fire andsecurity systems

Fig. 1: Circuit protection for an Ethernet interfaceinstalled indoors.

Fig. 2: Circuit protection for an Ethernet interface to meet the ITU K.44& ITU K.45 Lightning Resistibility Recommendation.

Fig. 3: PoE power-supply protection.

Fig. 4: ITU K.44 enhanced-level PoE power supply protection.

my-ftm.com/121129

Hall A4.259

Lighting Solutionson show at:

Security TechnologiesToday’s electronically connected world has tremendous strengthsand offers numerous opportunities. But strengths andopportunities are always partnered by weaknesses and threats.This month’s Application Spotlight focuses oninnovations to overcome such barriers toprogress.

The threat of cyber attacks reaches beyond therealm of the PC and Internet. Embedded devicesin infrastructures such as power grids are at risk,and government and commercial assets controlledusing systems such as SCADA have been underattack for well over a decade.

While software-based defences demonstrated atinternational conferences like Black Hat grab mostattention in the cyber war, secure embeddedhardware is vital to provide a trusted platform.Freescale integrates a broad spectrum ofhardware-based security features in its microcontroller families.Read about these scalable solutions on page 22.

For designers of physical security systems, such as intruder alarms,Zilog’s latest ZMOTION™ Intrusion-Detection Solution could savevaluable time and component costs. Find out how on page 23. Also

featured in this month’s spotlight are NXP’s latestcontactless-reader ICs for chip-card applications, on page20. Wireless devices from Semtech on page 21, and SierraWireless on page 23, support the latest standards forsecurity, sensing and tracking applications.

Among this month’s Design Notes, Freescale providesinsights into protecting embedded systems from hackerattacks and IP theft. See page 16 to find out how carefuldevice selection can save much of the work andinvestment involved in signing, encrypting and verifyingembedded software. On page 18, Littelfuse shows how toprotect advanced fire and security networks against theeffects of ESD in both indoor and outdoor installations.

This month’s Technical Article, on page 26, completesyour security download, discussing protection of smart metersagainst hacking and energy theft.

A P P L I C AT I O N S P O T L I G H T – S E C U R I T Y T E C H N O L O G I E S

20 F R E E D E V E L O P M E N T K I T S AT W WW . M Y- B O A R D C L U B . C O M

APPLICATIONS• Payment and loyalty schemes• Access-control systems• Public transport ticketing• Passport and eID readers• eMetering pre-payment systems

FEATURES• Integer PLL to derive system CPU clock• 512-byte FIFO buffer• 3.3V to 5V power supply • Integrated EEPROM for fast protocol

switching• Antenna connection with minimum

number of external components




DETAILSON PAGE

25

NXP SEMICONDUCTORS

NXP Semiconductors has combined highlyeffective RF power with low-power card-detection capabilities and a tiny footprint inits latest generation of contactless-readerICs for identification and authenticationapplications.

The family of devices includes the full-featuredCLRC663 alongside the MFRC631, MFRC630,and SLRC610 offering targeted protocol support.These devices address a broad spectrum ofapplications from payment, ticketing andphysical access control to eMetering, itemtagging and eGovernment services.

The high RF power and low-power card-detection mode ensure reliability and longreading distances for all smart cards and NFCdevices. The ICs also have an energy-savingstandby mode that helps to extend the batterylife of handheld readers.

Segment CLRC663 MFRC631 MFRC630 SLRC610

POS EMV payment incl. P2Pcouponing, FeliCa Pure EMV, PBOC, CUP – –

Physical Access All cards and tags supported US PIV ISO14443 Type A (MIFARE)

Hands-free, eventticketing

eGovernment – eID and ePassport reader – –

Public Transport ISO14443 Type A&B, FeliCa,Open-loop payment

ISO14443 Type A&B,open-loop payment

ISO14443 Type A(MIFARE) –

eMetering NFC P2P communication to mobilephone, pre-payment – Pre-payment –

Industrial andWhite Goods

P2P communication to mobile phone,identification of goods and itemtagging (proximity/vicinity tags)

– –Item and

document tagging(vicinity tags)

Gaming All NFC tags and ISO 15693 Tags 1,2 and 4 Tags 1, 2 and 4 ISO15693

Across the family, the following protocolsand standards are supported: ISO/IEC14443 A and B, ISO/IEC 15693 and FeliCa,MIFARE™ Classic and MIFARE Crypto1, EPCClass-1 HF / ISO/IEC 18000-3M3, NFC peer-to-peer passive initiator mode in accordancewith ISO/IEC 18092, NFC-tag types 1, 2, 3, and4, and the EMVCo Contactless protocol V2.0.1.

In addition, support for multiple hostinterfaces gives designers the choice ofconnecting via the IC’s 10Mbit/s SerialPeripheral Interface (SPI) port, serial UART, orI²C fast-mode/fast-mode plus interface. TheCLRC663 allows connection of a Secure-Access Module (SAM) using a dedicatedseparate I2C interface. The SAM can be usedfor highly secure key storage and acts as ahigh-performing crypto coprocessor. Adedicated SAM is available for connection tothe CLRC663.

Designers can also take advantage of thesupporting NXP Reader Library and dedicateddevelopment boards to speed-up design-inand lower development costs.

Next-generation contactless proximity reader ICs enhance powerefficiency enabling contactless card-, tag- and NFC-infrastructure



Advanced, low-power microcontrollers provide enhancedsecurity and integrity module

Freescale Kinetis K21 microcontrollersare a sub-family of the ARM® Cortex™-M4based K20 series that provide enhancedsecurity and integrity capabilities byincorporating a DryIce module featuring32-bit secure storage that is automaticallyerased upon tamper detection.

Also included in theK21 series security andintegrity module is ahardware CyclicRedundancy Checker(CRC) that speeds upverification of memorycontents andcommunication data,hardware encryptionsupporting DES, 3DES,AES, MD5, SHA-1, andSHA-256 algorithms, ahardware random-number generatorsupporting the key-

I2S module. There are also several timersincluding a 16-bit low-power timer, periodic-interrupt timers, and a programmable delayblock. Analogue peripherals include a 16-bitSAR ADC, a 12-bit DAC and twocomparators.

The K21 series maintains full software,hardware and development-tools compatibilitywith the K20 series and K10 series.

FREESCALEgeneration algorithm defined in the DigitalSignature Standard, and a 128-bit uniqueidentification number built into each chip.

In addition, K21 series devices feature highmemory density, with up to 512kbyte ofprogramme Flash and 64kbyte of RAM, andsupport core processor speeds up to 50MHz.

Complementing its enhanced securitycapabilities, the K21 series provides plentifulcommunication interfaces including a USB full-/low-speed On-The-Go (OTG) controllerwith on-chip transceiver, two SPI modules,two I2C modules, four UART modules and an

APPLICATIONS• User-authentication devices• Asset monitoring• Barcode scanners

FEATURES• Multiple low-power modes• 32kHz crystal oscillator• Real-time clock• Software watchdog• 80-pin LQFP and 121-pin BGA package

options



APPLICATIONS• Security systems• Remote access• Sensor networks• Home/building automation• Smart metering

FEATURES• 80dB blocking immunity• Fully integrated synthesiser with 61Hz

resolution• Programmable bit rate up to 300kbit/s• FSK, GFSK, MSK, GMSK and OOK

modulations• Bit synchroniser and sync-word recognition• 100nA sleep mode



RF transceiver boosts link performanceand energy efficiency

The SX1232 enables better performing, more dependable wirelessconnections.

The SX1232 has adjacent-channel selectivityof 54dB, sensitivity of -123dBm at 1.2kbit/s,image rejection of 48dB with 1% Packet ErrorRate (PER) and phase noise of -102dBc/Hz at915MHz, combined with very low receivecurrent of 9.3mA, which is significantly lowerthan competing devices.

Using this device, designers can depend onfavourable third-order Input Intercept Point (IIP3)and high linearity in the receiver front-end toensure excellent performance over longcommunication distances. The SX1232 has ultra-low receive current without compromising IIP3;at the highest gain and maximum sensitivity theIIP3 is -12dBm making this the most robustand reliable solution under any condition.

The SX1232’s integrated +20dBm amplifierand sensitivity of -123dBm at 1.2kbit/s providea typical link budget of 143dB. This high linkbudget, combined with the ability to scan theentire 902MHz-928MHz band without exitingreceive mode, makes the device ideal for

SEMTECH

The Semtech SX1232 sub-GHz RFtransceiver combines market-leadingRF performance with low powerconsumption enabling designers toachieve superior range, battery life andlink robustness in the presence ofinterference.

frequency-hopping applications. Withsynthesiser-settling time of 20µs for a 1MHzfrequency step, and RSSI sampling capabilityon a fraction of a bit time, the SX1232 is thefastest device for this type of application.

The SX1232 supports a wide range ofworldwide standards and regulations such asWireless Meter Bus (WMBus), IEEE 802.15.4g(SUN), FCC 15.247, ARIB T96/108, EN 300-220 and others.

Security features integrated in the Kinetis K21 series accelerate development and enhance applicationperformance.



APPLICATIONS• Industrial controls• Building automation• Surveillance cameras• Point-of-sale equipment• Ticketing systems

FEATURES• Secure real-time clock• True random-number generation• Cyclic redundancy checking• Hardware crypto algorithm support: AES-

128, DES, 3DES, ARC4, SHA-1, SHA-256• Code-signing tools available



Scalable microcontroller portfolio provides extensivesecurity resources

General features of Freescale ARM-based microcontrollers.

FREESCALE

communications, authenticating and protectingprogramme code, and protecting data.

The Kinetis K series, including K20 and K60families, implements a hardware encryptioncoprocessor and DryIce hardware tamper-detection unit providing high-speed support forindustry-standard secure-communicationalgorithms. Other capabilities include securekey storage and protection against attackssuch as under/over-voltage, temperaturevariation or physical attack.

At the high end of the microcontrollerspectrum, i.MX devices provide designers withan even broader choice of options includingARM TrustZone® support, secure boot, on-chip secure RAM, run-time integrity checkingand secure debug.

See the supporting Design Note on page 16.

Freescale’s broad and highly enabledportfolio of ARM® Cortex™

microcontrollers provides thescalability developers need to producemultiple product variants efficiently,and also provides security resourcesfor effective protection against threatssuch as copying or malicious attack.

The Freescale ARM-based device families arethe entry-level Kinetis L series based on theARM Cortex-M0+ core; Kinetis K seriesfeaturing the ARM Cortex-M4 core; dual-coreVybrid devices combining the ARM Cortex-M4and ARM Cortex-A5; and the i.MX familiesbased on ARM Cortex-Ax applicationsprocessors.

Each family offers a broad range of performance,peripheral and packaging options providingscalable migration paths for product derivativesbased on core platform development.Scalability also pervades enablementresources, through operating-system softwaresuch as the MQX™ RTOS, as well as Linuxsoftware Board-Support Packages (BSPs) forVybrid and i.MX families, and scalabledevelopment tools from the ARM ecosystem.

Advanced security featuresWith the increasingly networked and connectablenature of applications such as industrial controlsand networks, small transactional devices andcomplex infrastructure-management orfinancial systems, security is a key concern.Threats include spying, eavesdropping,software cloning or tampering, and data theft.Freescale’s scalable microcontroller familiesprovide a range of hardware features and IP tomeet requirements such as securing

APPLICATIONS• Secure access-control systems• Door control• Energy-management systems• Household appliances• Boiler control• Timers and sensors

FEATURES• 250V AC rated contact voltage• Maximum contact/release time: 8ms/6ms• 5kV/10mm coil-contact, reinforced

insulation• AgNi or AgSnO2 contact material• Product in accordance with IEC60335-1



Versatile single-pole relays gain ChinaQuality Certificate approval

TE CONNECTIVITY

TE Connectivity™ (TE) has receivedChina Quality Certification approval(CQC approval) for its RZ series ofrelays, which can help designers toreduce the time and cost toachieve the ChinaCompulsory Certificate(CCC) necessary for productacceptance in Chinesemarkets.

The RZ relay is the next generationof the successful RT series productline, and already has UL recognition andVDE approval. CQC approval further enhances

the RZ relay's suitability for applicationsaround the world.

Single-pole RZ relays are available in either12A or 16A versions, and with normally-openor changeover contacts. Standard versions aredesigned for 85°C ambient temperature, while

high-temperature models may be usedup to 105°C. DC coils areavailable for voltages rangingfrom 3V to 48V, and rated coilpower is 400mW. The productfulfils the glow-wire testaccording to IEC60335-1.

Primarily intended for PCB-mount applications, the series also

includes variants for mounting onDIN-rail sockets. The relays are produced

on a fully automated production line inAustria, enabling rapid delivery to productionlocations throughout Europe and beyond.

FreescaleDevice Family ARM® Core End Product Key

Features Enabling Module Target MarketSegment

ApplicationCode Re-use

Kinetis L* ARM® Cortex™-M0+Keypad Touch-sense interface

Residential, low-cost

Common ARM®

instruction set

Indicator LEDs High drive GPIOSounder Sounder PWM

Kinetis K ARM® Cortex™-M4Segment display Display multiplexer

Premium residentialMulti-function keys Touch-sense interface

Multi-tone sounder DAC

VybridARM® Cortex™-M4

and ARM® Cortex™-A5 (dual-core)

Touchscreen QVGA display Display controller Professional,

low-costIntercom Audio-digital interface

i.MX ARM® Cortex™-AxVGA/xVGA display High-resolution display

controller Premium professional

Real-time video Video processing unit



APPLICATIONS• Wide-area intrusion detector• Corridor, curtain or vertical-barrier motion

detectors• Dual-mode lighting/intrusion detectors• Secure-access control• Stand-alone alarm systems

FEATURES• Sensitivity control, range control, and

directionality detection• Hypersense detection mode for

occupancy sensing• Low-power modes• Wide-area, long-range and vertical-barrier

type lens and sensor options• 2kbyte in-circuit programmable Flash for

application code• Internal 5.53MHz precision oscillator



APPLICATIONS• Security• Transportation• Industrial • Energy• Healthcare

FEATURES• Optional embedded SIM• Windows®, Android™ and Linux® host-OS

compatibility• Up to 44 GPIOs• Analogue and digital audio• LED and PWM buzzer outputs• 5x5 keyboard interface• Low-power standby and idle modes



Pin-compatible module family and applicationframework accelerate M2M deployment

SIERRA WIRELESS

Intrusion-detection solution acceleratesdevelopment, saves costs and components

The ZMOTION Intrusion-Detection platform comprises a versatile choice ofhardware components as well as software IP.

Designers can also significantly reduce the billof materials by using the ZMOTIONIntrusion-Detection Solution. ThePIR sensor interfaces directly to theMCU, which eliminates any need forexternal components such as op-amps and electrolytic capacitors. Inaddition the new statisticalprocessing algorithms provided bythe PIR motion-detection engineeliminate the need for a discretetemperature-compensation circuit.By allowing a simpler and smallercircuit design, this approach alsodelivers better reliability, sensitivity

and stability than traditional designs.Hosted on the Z8FS021 MCU, this

intrusion-detection solution benefits from theprogrammability and rich peripheral set of theZ8 Encore! XP family of in-circuitprogrammable Flash MCUs. The built-inmotion-detection software algorithms, basedon Zilog’s PIR Engine combined with functionssuch as white-light detection and petimmunity, provide essential capabilitiesenabling PIR intrusion-detection applications toachieve high stability as well as high sensitivity.

The intrusion-detection algorithms executein background on the MCU, while monitoringand control of the PIR Engine is achieved

ZILOG

PyroElectricSensor

ZMOTION MCUZ8FS021

Alarm OutputTM

Fres

nel

Lens • Form A

• Form C

StatusLED

Jumper Configuration• Pet Immunity• Auto LED• Pulse Mode

ZMOTION Intrusion Detection Components White LightDetection

Power Supply

application to access the Sierra WirelessAirVantage M2M Cloud Platform to remotelymonitor, troubleshoot and upgrade devicesover the air through a web portal.

Zilog’s ZMOTION™ Intrusion-DetectionSolution extends the proven ZMOTIONportfolio, enhancing the high-performance Z8FS021 microcontrollerand its built-in motion-detectionalgorithms by adding new intrusion-detection IP and a selection of lensesand Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors forvarious security applications.

Sierra Wireless AirPrime™ Q seriesmodules are available in 2G and 3Gversions and are footprint compatible,enabling engineers to create a singleproduct design foruse with any cellularnetwork anywhere inthe world.

The module portfoliocomprises the AirPrimeQ2698, a 5-band 3GHSPA+ module suitablefor worldwidedeployments and alsofeaturing built-in GPS;the AirPrime Q2686quad-band 2G GPRSmodule; the AirPrime Q2687 supporting quad-band 2G connectivity up to EDGE; and theAirPrime Q26 Elite 2G CDMA1x module.

AirPrime Q series modules are built todeliver high performance and reliability.

They are specified over the extendedtemperature range of -40°C to 85°C, presentbest-in-class analogue and digital audiocapabilities, and offer a wide range ofhardware interfaces including USB2.0, SPI, I2Cand GPIOs.

Developers can also take advantage of theextensive Sierra Wireless Open AT

Application Framework thatprovides a best-in-classembedded IP stack, librariesincluding security, location,eCall and cloud connectivity,and a large set of audio APIs.

The Open AT ApplicationFramework simplifies softwareapplication development andsaves engineering costs. As theworld’s first complete softwarepackage for M2M applicationdevelopment, it powers millionsof devices operating worldwide

and includes the only operating systemdesigned specifically for M2M, which allowsdevelopers to write embedded applicationsmore easily using standard ANSI C/C++.

The AirVantage Agent cloud-connectivitylibrary, included within Open AT, allows the

through a software Application ProgrammeInterface (API). This allows designers to createapplication-specific software while takingadvantage of Zilog’s ZMOTION technology forreliable intrusion detection. Additional APIsettings are provided to match PIR-Engineoperation to each lens and sensor combination.

my-ftm.com/121137

Hall A4.259

Energy Solutions on show at:

Boards of the Month

The Ramtron Tower F-RAM module (TWR-FRAM) is compatible with the Freescale TowerSystem Development platform, and acceleratesevaluation and prototyping of applications usingFRAM to meet demands for high data integrityand ultra-low power consumption.

The TWR-FRAM comes with Ramtron F-RAMcore memory and integrated products. Itoperates in conjunction with a Tower Systemprocessor module and elevator modules,enabling engineers to explore the highendurance, fast single-cycle and symmetricalread/write speeds, low energy consumption,gamma radiation tolerance, and high immunityto electromagnetic noise that are inherentadvantages of Ramtron’s F-RAM memories.

The modules allows users to develop with thecomplete Ramtron F-RAM product line, whichoffers core memory products up to 8Mbit andchoice of SPI, I2C, or parallel memory interface,as well as Ramtron’s processor companions,state savers, and an interface to Ramtron’swireless memory products, such as theWM72016-6-EVAL, available separately.

Freescale8-bit microcontroller replacementFreescale Tower System Module fordevelopment using KL0 series entry-level Kinetismicrocontrollers. Board Reference: TWR-KL25Z48MResponse Number: 05

MicrochipUSB developmentMicrochip Low Pin-Count USB Development Kitfor use with Enhanced Mid-range 8-bit PIC® MCUs.Board Reference: DM164127Response Number: 02

NXP SemiconductorsCable and wireless communicationKit containing USB-powered RF evaluationboard, cables, samples and plug-and-playcontrol software for evaluating NXPSemiconductors BGA7204 variable-gainamplifier.

Board References:OM7922 for BGA7204OM7921 for BGA7210Response Number: 15

NXP SemiconductorsSecure card-reader developmentEvaluation board for NXP Semiconductors’CLRC663 next-generation multi-protocolcontactless-reader IC.

Board References:CLEV663: reader boardCLEV663B: reader board stacked on top ofLPC-Link board supporting NXP's ARM-basedmicrocontrollers.

Response Number: 30

my-boardclub.com classifiedsNXP SemiconductorsHDMI-port protectionEvaluation board with male and female HDMIconnectors for testing IP4786/7CZ32 ESD-protection ICs.

Board Reference: IP4786/7CZ32 applicationboardResponse Number: 11

Future Electronics’ Board Club: supporting innovative electronics designEurope’s electronics industry thrives on the application of innovation and creativity, and anessential innovator’s tool in design projects is the development board. The Board Club website is aFuture Electronics resource for users of development boards. Here, and only here, Board Clubmembers can gain access to exclusive free development boards and development board offers.If you would like to register for membership, please visit: www.my-boardclub.com/register.php

To apply for these free boards go to: www.my-boardclub.com/ftmTerms and conditions apply. Visit www.my-boardclub.com/about_us for details

D E V E L O P M E N T B O A R D S I N T H I S I S S U E

25

APPLICATIONS• Smart meters• Medical devices• Industrial equipment• Automotive electronics

FEATURES• Two FM22L16 4Mb parallel F-RAMs

(expandable to 8Mb)• Four FM1106 8-bit non-volatile GPIO state

savers• FM25V10 1Mb SPI serial F-RAM• FM24W256 256kb I2C serial F-RAM• FM31T378 256kb I2C TCXO processor

companion• FM31256 256kb I2C RTC/processor

companion• FM33256B 256kb SPI RTC/processor

companion

Develop with high-performance FRAM on Freescale Tower System

The XMOSsliceKIT™ is amodular platformfor developing withthe xCORE rangeof MulticoreMCUs (MMCUs).The sliceKITplatform is basedon a processor

board powered by an xCORE Multicore MCUand equipped with four expansion slots thatcan be populated with I/O extension cards(slices) supporting functions such as Ethernet,UART, ADC, LCD graphics and digital audio.The kit is closely integrated with the XMOSxTIMEcomposer™ Studio design tools andxSOFTip soft peripherals, helping engineers to

harness the power of multicore processing inreal-time embedded applications.

The processor board features the 32-bit, 16-core xCORE L2 Multicore MCU, and deliversup to 1000MIPS that can be dynamically sharedacross up to 16 concurrent, deterministic real-time tasks. It incorporates unique on-boardreal-time debugging capabilities that allowdesigners to perform timing-accurate analysison the performance of their application code.

xSOFTip software IP within thexTimeComposer tool allows users to accessand use each sliceKIT I/O slice quickly andeasily. In addition, each is supplied completewith a demonstration application to assistengineers in getting their hardware configurationup and running. Slices connect to the processorboard using low-cost PCIe style connectors,

APPLICATIONS• Wide-ranging applications including:

• Digital-audio development• Real-time control systems• Automotive electronics

FEATURES• MMCU with choice of 40 peripherals• C-based programming, with real-time

extensions• Starter kit comprising:

• xCORE multicore processor board• GPIO and Ethernet slice cards• xTAG real-time debug adapter

Modular platform speeds up real-time, multicore application development

making it a straightforward task for users tointerchange and experiment with hardwareconfigurations and, if required, to build I/Oslices meeting custom requirements.

The Tower System FRAM module increases the accessibility ofhigh-performance memory for new designs.

Multicore development is easierwith the sliceKIT.

READ THIS TO FIND OUT ABOUT

• Smart-grid infrastructure and functionality• Network vulnerabilities• Attack-detection and prevention techniques

T E C H N I C A L V I E W


Energy-distribution infrastructures are transitioning to the‘smart-grid’ model to improve management of energyresources, drive down consumer demand and allow effectiveintegration of green power sources. But when appliancesbecome nodes in a network, they immediately becomeexposed to the risk of system-wide attacks. Paul Donaldson,Sales Director, Future Energy Solutions (EMEA) discussescomponent technologies and features that can help toprevent unauthorised access and protect equipment fromnetwork-borne threats.

• Operational systems: generators, transformers, Supervisory Control &Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, Energy ManagementSystems/Distribution Management Systems (EMS/DMS), sub-stations,transmission system operators and distribution system operators

• Classic IT systems: PCs, servers, mainframes, databases, websites,web services

• Communications networks and protocols: Ethernet, Wi-Fi®, PRIME,DLMS/COSEM, ZigBee®, mobile telephone networks

• End points: smart meters, electric vehicles, smartphones and othermobile devices

The applications and communication protocols used by these systemsare likely to use structured languages and web-based technologies. Thiswill enable, for instance, an application on a householder’s smartphoneto automatically track a utility’s electricity charges throughout the day asthey rise and fall in response to changes in demand, and remotelytrigger an appliance such as a tumble dryer to start operating, via acommand carried over the internet and routed through the homeowner’ssmart meter, when the electricity price falls below a pre-set threshold.

Such capabilities will deliver benefits such as lower energy bills forconsumers and simplified demand management for utilities. Clearly,however, the smart meter in the home also becomes exposed to riskssuch as viruses and malware, as well as direct misuse such astampering.

To combat these and other risks, semiconductor companies havedeveloped technologies that provide robust protection and security fordevices on the smart grid.

The data concentrator: a securenode?The data concentrator is an integralcomponent in Automatic MeterReading (AMR). It supports theinfrastructure by linking electricity,gas, water and heat meters togetherto a central utility server, and bycapturing and reporting data. It alsosynchronises the time and date dataof utility meters with the centralserver, and enables the securetransfer of user-authentication andencryption information.

Communication to utility meters isaccomplished via an RF or powerline-modem connection, using a protocolsuch as Ethernet, GSM, GPRS orPOTS.

Smart-meter security measuresSmart meters can be exposed toattacks such as physical tampering,electrical under-or over-voltage orprobing, or software exploits such asspyware, malware and cyber attacks.

Fig. 1: The smart grid is a communications as well as a power network.

Networking the smart grid: semico coming security challenge

The smart-grid and its vulnerabilitiesThe smart grid, complete with smart metering at each consumer’spremises, is widely regarded as an essential tool for moulding consumers’choices and improving control for utility companies. The infrastructureenvisioned incorporates digital and standards-based communicationtechnologies which connect meters, and potentially even end-users’appliances, to utilities’ infrastructure and data centres. Effectively, thegrid is becoming both a communications and a power network, asshown in Figure 1. However, it is not a single network.

As Figure 2 illustrates, the smart grid is, in fact, a large,interdependent system comprising multiple sub-systems which span thewhole electricity value chain from the generator to the end-user. Manysmart-grid applications and features depend on each other, and oftenthese applications and features are not under the control of a singlecompany or organisation. For example, Advanced DistributionAutomation (ADA) systems depend on sub-station automation,Automated Metering Infrastructure (AMI) data, and information aboutdistributed energy resources, such as solar panels, to perform correctly.

In fact, the grid’s mix of control sites, sub-systems, nodes and end-user equipment can be broken down into four broad categories whicheach have a different set of security vulnerabilities.

T E C H N I C A L V I E W


Physical and electrical vulnerabilities are typically well understood andprotected, although new technologies allow for improved designs.Today’s most severe risks are associated with the connectivity andcommunications protocols, and call for new security features notpreviously implemented in electric meters.

Tampering can be prevented through the provision of tilt-detectioncircuitry. C&K Components for instance, offers an electro-mechanical tiltdetector comprising a movable conductive ball inside a tube thatgenerates a signal when a tilt angle of more than 10° is detected.

Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) devices have become aviable alternative to electro-mechanical detectors, enablingminiaturisation and greater reliability. Freescale’s MMA8491Q ultra-low-power low-g accelerometer, for example, draws less than 350nA/Hz,turns on within less than 0.5ms, and has the added advantage of aprogrammable tilt-detect threshold. It requires only three I/O channelsfrom the accompanying microcontroller.

In meters where strong extraneous magnetic fields or electro-magnetic interference from AC-measuring circuitry is not present, suchas non-electrical meters, a magnetometer such as Freescale’s MAG31103D sensor can provide effective tilt detection.

The host-microcontroller’s Real-Time Clock (RTC) is anothervulnerability often targeted, as it is directly linked to the billing informationtransmitted to the utilities. A correctly specified microcontroller willensure, for example, that the RTC works independently of the processor,and may be powered from the mains with a battery back-up, to preventcorruption of timing data if the power supply is intentionally interrupted.

The RTC should also feature in-built compensation for clockinaccuracies, to prevent hackers from altering the clock speed bychanging the RTC crystal’s characteristics. The registers that contain thedata must not be susceptible to low-voltage events outside theoperating specifications, nor to intentional noise introduced to themicrocontroller in an attempt to re-write register values. Techniquesimplemented successfully by microcontroller manufacturers to neutralisethis type of threat include a hard-wired RTC-security code, which allowsthe system to compare previous values and generate an interrupt whena mismatch is detected.

These and other security and anti-tamper features are found inFreescale’s K61 and K70 Kinetis families of ARM® Cortex™-M4microcontrollers. These devices are normally a good place for the designengineer to start product evaluation at the architecture-design phase.


Combating software threatsThe various entities use many data-exchange protocols to communicatewithin the power grid. Protocols such as TCP/IP, HTTP and FTP,although familiar, are vulnerable to software attack. Hence secureprotocols such as Internet Protocol Security (IPSec), Secure SocketLayer/Transport Layer Security (SSL/TLS) and Secure Shell (SSH) needto be used alongside cryptographic techniques in order to protect thedata and the transport medium from attack.

Stronger cryptography, however, shifts the hacker’s attention to thesmart meter’s microcontroller as the most promising point ofinterrogation. This highlights the importance of careful microcontrollerselection at the architecture design phase to ensure the availability ofsecurity features that prevent tampering or unauthorised access.

The easiest way for a would-be hacker to gain unauthorised access toa microcontroller is through its JTAG port. This port is essential fordebugging during product development and for testing duringmanufacturing. Unless secured at the factory, however, it can provide aneasy point for the hacker to gain access. Hence the chosenmicrocontroller should incorporate a debug-port access regulator thatprovides selectable protection levels through the operation of fuse modes.

Pre-pay metersPre-pay meters pose an additional challenge: the inherent need toprovide a physical interface for a pre-payment card or coins. Theprovision of a slot prevents sealing the casing. Near FieldCommunication (NFC) technology now offers a solution. A contactlessNFC reader inside a pre-pay meter can read a compatible pre-paymentcard with no need for a slot, thereby allowing the meter to behermetically sealed.

ConclusionDemand for smart-grid services and capabilities is growing, amongvarious parties including utility companies and consumers. As efforts toagree interoperable communication standards move forward and roll-outtimescales for smart-meter installation are established, there is a growingacceptance that securing the grid is a high priority. Success will enablethe eventual move to ‘Smart Grid 2.0’, in which real-time access totariffs, pricing and data gives end-users real freedom to regulate andcontrol electricity usage efficiently.

Fig. 2: Typical power grid nodes.

Fig. 3: Data concentrator reference design from Freescale using QorIQ P1025 processor.

nductor manufacturers address the

my-ftm.com/121139

Hall A4.259

Delivering Expertise ison show at:

future technology magazine - my-boardclub.com · •data loggers •home-automation or security...

Documents