Author Archives: Matt Williams

About Matt Williams

Global Applications Engineering Manager.

TE Circuit Protection at Darnell’s Power Forum

It’s time for Darnell’s Power Forum. Every year the Darnell Group hosts this industry event where engineers and technologist alike gather to discuss the advancement of power technologies. This year’s theme is “Digital Power Technology, Innovations for the Smart Grid … Continue reading

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More on Smart Grid

For those of you who are interested in learning more about the features and benefits of Smart Grids here is an interesting video from Engineering TV discussing some of the benefits of a Smart Grid monitoring system. The video features … Continue reading

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Low-Voltage Direct Current (LVDC) Microgrids – Becoming a Reality

To understand the distribution and delivery of DC (direct current) in microgrid applications, a useful analogy is to first think of how DC works at the printed circuit board (PCB) level. Direct current, although pico in nature, is distributed on the PCB in various voltages for different functions to power the components within the application. Now, imagine DC power distribution on a “higher” plane and you have the concept of DC distribution at the microgrid; either at the building or at room level, where it powers applications inside the premises. Continue reading

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Motor, Drive and Automation Systems Conference 2011

Greetings readers I have just touched down in San Antonio, Texas for the Motor, Drive and Automation Systems conference tomorrow. During the flight I just put the finishing touches on my presentation for Wednesday’s conference. So stop on by if you would like to learn about the latest circuit protection solutions for motors and motor control systems. My presentation will be on Wednesday March 2nd at 11:10am. Continue reading

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To E-Waste or Not to E-Waste – That is a question?

On a flight to Shanghai this past summer the number of e-readers showing up was impressive to see. About 5 hours into the flight, a passenger across the aisle from me was reading his e-reader when all of a sudden, colorful expletives were being spoken. I looked over and the passenger, not happy, cursed at his e-reader as the battery gave up and he was unable to charge the e-reader at the seat. As I reached into my laptop case and pulled out my old fashioned paperback book, I looked back at the passenger saying “no batteries required” and “even the bookmark works!” Continue reading

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Darnell’s Power Forum Recap

On Sep 13-15, I attended the Darnell Power Forum in Chicago and gave a presentation on Circuit Protection Considerations for LED Lighting. The forum comprised power supply OEMs, Smart Grid participants, Energy Harvesting Companies and Semiconductor manufacturers. Continue reading

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Circuit Protection Considerations for byteflight

This Tech Tip describes a coordinated circuit protection solution for an automotive networking application utilizing the byteflight protocol. Components that make up the network, such as the microprocessor, byteflight controller, and optical transceivers, are susceptible to damage caused by spikes on the power supply and reverse voltages. Continue reading

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Seminar on Coordinated Circuit Protection Options for LED Lighting at Darnell’s Power Forum 2010

Darnell’s Power Forum is an international forum for discussions broadly focused on power management, energy efficiency, advanced components, energy storage, smart grid innovations and more. It will be held from September 13th to 15th in Chicago, Illinois. Continue reading

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Head in the Clouds…Feet at the Curb

Historically speaking, multimedia innovations are preceded by increases in bandwidth. Today, although still in their infancy, the applications that require Next Generation Access (NGA) broadband, such as streaming live and on-demand video, cloud computing, and massive downloads and uploads are being implemented around the world. Continue reading

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Appliance Recall Lists: A Manufacturer’s Worst Nightmare

Although high-profile automobile recalls seem to make headlines on a regular basis, most home appliance recalls are handled quietly and efficiently, receiving little public attention. In fact, you may not even be aware that your blender, coffee maker, refrigerator or dishwasher is on a recall list. Continue reading

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