As you may have heard, USB is now developing a new high-power specification called USB Power Delivery that will be capable of delivering up to 100W (5 amps at 20 volts) of power. Reports say the USB Implementers Forum has limited the current to the same 5 Amp UL limit, but raised the voltage level. Keep reading…
Did you know that most silicon ESD device manufacturers specify their low-cap devices’ capacitance at 1MHz?
We all know that at 1MHz, even very high capacitance devices would probably meet generic timing requirements when put on a signal line. This is a key difference between TE’s SESD devices and other devices.
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Technology aficionados like me have always been drawn to the latest and greatest gadgets and gizmos because it gives us something to tinker with – and using a home theater PC, or HTPC, to watch TV from the computer is no exception. HTPCs may satisfy a hobbyist’s desire to experiment, but it mostly remains a niche interest for a few technology buffs. There are some key reasons why HTPCs been slow to enter the mainstream; namely, complexity of setup and maintenance, high power consumption, high cost, and lack of access to the same TV channels available by using a set-top box. Keep reading…
A Hong Kong action movie starring Jackie Chan and a new PC interface from Intel have something in common — both are called “Thunderbolt.” The new interface is aptly named since it would have the ability to transfer the HD version of the movie in less than 30 seconds. Wow!
I know what you’re thinking: another new interface technology? We have been inundated in recent years with new interface technologies HDMI, DisplayPort, USB 3.0, eSATA, etc. Reflecting the evolving digital age, each interface has offered something new to specifically address a consumer demand. For example, HDMI interface transfers HD video and audio to video monitors. USB 3.0 upgrades the speed of its “older-brother” USB 2.0. DisplayPort protocol simplifies internal PC architectures for distributing HD video and data. Lastly, eSATA protocol expands the serial ATA interface to an external connector, enabling fast data transfer to or from an external hard disk drive. Keep reading…
Ever wish you could charge your cell phone right from your laptop’s USB port — even with the laptop turned off? Does your smart phone or iPadTM device charge so slowly the grass seems to grow while you wait? Tired of carrying multiple chargers to power up your many different devices all with different USB ports? If so, good news is on the way. Whether you’re a tech-savvy road-warrior or a casual consumer, portable devices supporting the new USB Charging Specification V1.2 will improve your mobile experience. Keep reading…
The snow-peaked mountains set the scene in Las Vegas last week as gadget and technology lovers from around the world gathered for the annual Consumer Electronics Show.
The word I’d use to sum up CES 2011?: Connected.
This year CES marked the transition to the age of digital connectivity. The days of traditional devices and end-applications are now long gone. We are now in the era of ubiquitous connectivity with enhanced end-user experience. Keep reading…
If there was any question that slate tablet PCs will soon be as familiar – and almost as cheap – as the Etch-a-Sketch toy, here is a story from TheStreet.Com about how the Indian government is trying to develop a “touch screen computer” prototype for $35.00. Disposable tablets might be a ways off, but surely prices will fall and product choices will abound after the giant Consumer Electronics Show in early January, where manufacturers will roll out their latest offerings. Keep reading…
The California Energy Commission formally adopted regulations on November 18, 2009 on how much power televisions can consume in California beginning in 2011, with stricter standards to take effect in 2013. This does not bode well for power-hungry plasma HDTVs. Keep reading…
Although it took a little more time than intended, VESA has finally unveiled DisplayPort v1.2. Billed as the industry’s most innovative and flexible digital communication interface standard for transporting display, audio and other data, its impressive array of capabilities and no-fee licensing is sure to entice manufacturers of new consumer electronics. Keep reading…