EPT Jan-Feb 2024 by Annex Business Media

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

CANADA’S INFORMATION LEADER FOR ELECTRONIC ENGINEERS AND DESIGNERS

EPT.CA

FACILITATING INNOVATION

OVIN supports Ontario’s automotive design sector p.14

PROTECTING DATA

Security framework guards automotive image sensor data p.16

EMC TESTING

Connected vehicles drive up demand on EMI reduction P.20

DRIVING VEHICLE TECH

Studio63 gets automotive designs to the finish line p.10

INSIDE Cover photo: Studio63 (Gatik) Photos (this page, from top): Studio63 (Gatik); Getty Images; MIPI; Getty

Columns

4 EDITORIAL Navigating the automotive tech road 8 WEST TECH REPORT CPTPP invigorates New Zealand firms in Canada 9 THINK GREEN Sustronics addresses EU e-waste challenges

In every issue

5 NEWSWATCH 21 NEW PRODUCTS 24 SUPPLY SIDE 25 AD INDEX 26 DEV BOARDS MIKROE Clicker 4 starter boards

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COVER STORY

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STUDIO63 TAKES THE INSIDE TRACK Niche Ottawa engineering team steers auto tech ACCELERATING ONTARIO’S AUTO SECTOR Government initiative harnesses strengths, capabilities, resources MAKING SENSOR-ENABLED ADAS SECURE Security is essential for advanced image sensor-enabled ADAS DRIVING UP EMC TESTING DEMAND SGS sees upswing in need as automotive electronics expands

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January/February 2024 / EP&T

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EDITORIAL

Navigating the road ahead The exciting trajectory of emerging automotive technologies In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology, we find ourselves at a crossroads where innovation intersects with the open road. Today’s vehicles are no longer mere modes of transportation; they are sophisticated machines seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technologies. As we steer into the future, the car sector stands on the brink of a revolution, with a host of emerging technologies poised to reshape the driving experience. One of the most transformative developments in recent years is the advent of electric vehicles (EVs). With concerns about climate change and a global push towards sustainable living, the automotive sector has responded by embracing cleaner, greener alternatives to traditional internal combustion engines. With their zero-emission profiles, EVs are rapidly gaining traction, not only as an environmentally conscious choice but also as a viable option for consumers.

raised over energy storage and charging infrastructure, which will make EVs more practical and accessible to a broader audience. Balancing the allure of a cleaner tomorrow with the potential pitfalls of rapid EV integration is an intricate challenge that must be dealt with moving forward.

Who needs a driver?

Autonomous driving technology is another paradigm-shifting innovation that promises to reshape the automotive landscape - with companies like Tesla, Waymo, and traditional automakers investing billions in R&D. While fully self-driving cars may still be a few years away from widespread adoption, we are witnessing a gradual integration of semi-autonomous features in contemporary vehicles.

ADAS now commonplace

Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are becoming commonplace, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies are not only enhancing safety but also laying the groundwork for a future EVs the answer? where the driver’s role is fundaDespite the undeniable advan- mentally transformed. tages, the widespread adoption Connectivity is yet another of EVs comes with its share of frontier that is rapidly advancing. challenges and drawbacks that The era of the connected car is cannot be overlooked. As major upon us, with vehicles seamlessly automakers pour significant integrating with smartphones investments into EV technology, and other smart devices. This critical considerations such as connectivity extends beyond battery disposal, resource ex- entertainment and navigation, traction for battery production encompassing vehicle-to-vehicle and the strain on the power grid (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication. pose substantial concerns. Concerns have also been Imagine a future where cars

Technologies are enhancing safety, while also laying the groundwork for a future where the driver’s role is transformed Connect with EP&T magazine @EPTmagazine

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ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY / January/February 2024

communicate with each other to optimize traffic flow, anticipate road hazards and coordinate smoother journeys. The potential for increased efficiency and safety on our roads is immense, marking a significant leap forward in the way we think about transportation. The road ahead, however, is not without its challenges. As we embrace these transformative technologies, ethical and regulatory considerations must be at the forefront. The advent of autonomous vehicles raises questions about liability, safety, and the ethical implications of machines making split-second decisions.

Balancing innovation & implementation

Striking a balance between innovation and responsible implementation is crucial to ensuring that these technologies benefit society as a whole. Moreover, the digitalization of vehicles raises concerns about cybersecurity. As cars become more connected and reliant on complex software systems, the risk of cyberattacks becomes a pressing issue. Safeguarding the privacy and security of vehicle data must be a top priority to prevent unauthorized access and potential safety hazards. Ultimately, we stand on the cusp of a new era in automotive technology, where electric propulsion, autonomy and connectivity converge to redefine the driving experience. Buckle up, as the ride into the future promises to be both exhilarating and transformative. STEPHEN LAW Editor slaw@ept.ca info@ept.ca

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Canada’s information leader for electronic engineers and designers

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 Volume 46, Number 1 READER SERVICE Print and digital subscription inquiries or changes, please contact Angelita Potal Tel: (416) 510-5113 Fax: (416) 510-6875 Email: apotal@annexbusinessmedia.com Mail: 111 Gordon Baker Rd., Suite 400 Toronto, ON M2H 3R1 EDITOR Stephen Law slaw@ept.ca · (416) 510-5208 WEST COAST CORRESPONDENT Sohail Kamal · sohail@nextgear.ca SENIOR PUBLISHER Scott Atkinson satkinson@ept.ca · (416) 510-5207 ACCOUNT MANAGER Joanna Malivoire jmalivoire@ept.ca · direct 866-868-7089 SALES MANAGER Chander Verma cverma@annexbusinessmedia.com cell 437-218-0941 ACCOUNT COORDINATOR Shannon Drumm sdrumm@annexbusinessmedia.com MEDIA DESIGNER Lisa Zambri lzambri@annexbusinessmedia.com AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Anita Madden amadden@annexbusinessmedia.com (416) 510-5183 GROUP PUBLISHER Paul Grossinger pgrossinger@annexbusinessmedia.com PRESIDENT/COO Scott Jamieson sjamieson@annesbusinessmedia.com EP&T is published eight times per year by ANNEX BUSINESS MEDIA 111 Gordon Baker Road, Suite 400 Toronto, ON M2H 3R1 Tel (416) 442-5600 Fax (416) 510-5134 annexbusinessmedia.com SUBSCRIPTION RATES Canada – $ 59.67 one year; $95.88 two years USA – $136.68 (CAD) per year International – $187.17 (CAD) per year Single copy – Canada $15.00 ISSN 0708-4366 (print) ISSN 1923-3701 (digital) PUB. MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40065710 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: EP&T Circulation Department, 111 Gordon Baker Rd. Suite 400, Toronto, ON M2H 3R1

© 2024 EP&T. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher. No liability is assumed for errors or omissions or validity of the claims in items reported. All advertising is subject to the publisher’s approval. Such approval does not imply any endorsement of the products or services advertised. Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising that does not meet the standards of the publication. Occasionally, EP&T will mail information on behalf of industry-related groups whose products and services we believe may be of interest to you. If you prefer not to receive this information, please contact our circulation department. PRINTED IN CANADA

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NEWSWATCH WEARABLES

Photo: Humane AI; AdHawk Microsystems

HUMANE AI SEEKS TO REDEFINE WEARABLE AI

Humane Inc. recently unveiled what it’s calling the world’s first wearable device and software platform with embedded Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) connectivity. Developed by a San Francisco-based tech company, Humane AI aims to usher in a new era of user-centric artificial intelligence, placing a strong emphasis on ethical considerations and the well-being of individuals. The device combines the power of AI with seamless connectivity, offering users a unique and integrated experience that distinguishes it from existing wearable technologies. At the heart of Humane AI’s innovation is its capacity to operate as a standalone mobile device, complete with MVNO connectivity. This feature allows users to make calls, send messages, and access the internet directly from the device, eliminating the need for a separate smartphone. This independence not only enhances user convenience but also reduces the overall environmental impact associated with the production and disposal of multiple electronic devices. The Humane AI device boasts a sleek and ergonomic design, making it comfortable for extended wear. The lightweight, unobtrusive nature

Humane AI’s wearable device can make calls, send messages and access the Internet directly.

of the device aligns with the company’s commitment to ensuring that technology integrates seamlessly into users’ lives without causing unnecessary disruptions.

MINDLINK AIR UNVEILS EYE TRACKING GLASSES

Waterloo-based AdHawk Micro developed eye tracking tech.

AdHawk Microsystems, a Waterloo-based developer of eye tracking technology, has unveiled its first ever research-grade eye tracking glasses for the consumer market. AdHawk’s MindLink Air device unlocks the connection between the eyes and the

brain and can be worn in comfort and style as a pair of lightweight everyday glasses. They feature embedded all-day eye tracking technology to provide valuable data about task proficiency, productivity and cognitive health & wellness throughout the day. The glasses come in three styles (rectangular, round, oval) and many colours, and can be customized to the wearer’s needs by adding an existing prescription, blue light capabilities, or as sunglasses. MindLink Air’s sensors observe eye behavior and movement, including blink activity, pupil dilation, gaze behavior, fixation depth when looking at different distances, and even saccades—the rapid and precise movements that our eyes make all the time. The precision and speed of these sensors is unmatched in wearable products.

THE POWER OF CUSTOM

Prototype to Production Volumes IC Sockets • Adapters • Board to Board Connectors

WWW.ADVANCED.COM 800.424.9850 @EPTmagazine EPT_AdvsncedInterconnection_April23.indd 1

January/February 2024 / EP&T

2023-03-20 9:48 AM

NEWSWATCH BLACKBERRY CALLS OFF IPO FOR IOT

BlackBerry Ltd. called off plans for an initial public offering of its Internet of Things business, but still plans to split its operations. The Waterloo-based firm did not say why it is abandoning plans for an IPO, while also announcing that it has promoted John Giamatteo to chief executive officer. The firm used that news to reaffirm its commitment to dividing the company - one of the products of a strategic review of the business. ``Management is focused on moving quickly to complete this reorganization that will further enhance the focus of both businesses on their respective markets, as well as their capacity for fast, flexible decision-making,’’ said Dick Lynch, BlackBerry’s board chair.

SEMICONDUCTORS

U OF SHERBROOKE OPENS CENTRE FOR NANO SEMIS, FLEXIBLE OPTO

The University of Sherbrooke has unveiled its Umicore Research Chair for semiconductor nanomembranes and flexible optoelectronics. The initiative is headed by two researchers from the Quebec university’s Faculty of Engineering, members of the Interdisciplinary Institute of Technological Innovation (3IT) and LN2, Professors Abderraouf Boucherif and Richard Arès. Partnered with global circular materials technology group Umicore and backed with five years of $1.5-million of seed funding, the associated research is aiming to transform optoelectronic and quantum applications by creating flexible, low-cost devices, without loss of performance. Most recently, the challenge is that current devices are manufactured on substrates that are incompatible with the new needs identified, in particular because of the thickness of substrates, along with its rigidity and mechanical fragility. The solutions to these challenges could, eventually emerge directly from the Sherbrooke laboratories, as the Chair will be able to support more than $8 million in related research. 6

VANCOUVER RESEARCHER RECOGNIZED FOR NEXT GEN MICROCHIPS

University of British Columbia (UBC) researcher Matthew Mitchell has earned the Mitacs Award for Commercialization. Mitchell, a postdoctoral researcher working under the supervision of Dream Photonics co-founder Lukas Chrostowski and Professor Jeff Young at UBC’s Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute — is being recognized for using a novel technique to 3D print optical structures called waveguides, making it possible to connect photonic chips reliably and efficiently to other components, including optical fibres, photonic integrated circuits and lasers, like the remote sensing lasers used in emerging LiDAR navigation systems. The innovative technique, called photonic wire bonding, is enabling the company to offer a first-of-itskind prototyping service to companies working to innovate with the next-generation chips.

and compact design of MADM make it suitable in more challenging environments, such as field hospitals and forward-deployed surgical scenarios. MADM is quick to set up, easy to use, and has a small footprint - exactly what is required when time and space are at a premium and mobility is required. At just 7.1 lbs (excluding battery), MADM is about the size of a 2-slice toaster and can easily be hand-carried or attached to Thornhill Medical’s MOVES SLC integrated life-support system to quickly and efficiently stand up a forward surgical capability. Matthew Mitchell, a postdoctoral researcher in the Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute at UBC, earned the Mitacs Award for Commercialization

MEDICAL

THORNHILL MEDICAL RAMPS UP PRODUCTION OF MADM

Toronto-based medical technology OEM Thornhill Medical announced that it is accelerating its manufacturing of its mobile anesthesia delivery technology – MADM. The medtech device is aimed at supporting military and humanitarian medical teams who need lighter, compact and more portable medical equipment that can withstand austere, extreme, and unpredictable deployment environments. Approved by both FDA and Health Canada, MADM easily connects to any ventilator to safely and accurately enable gas anesthesia.The lightweight

ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY / January/February 2024

Fonds de solidarite FTQ has invested $68M to support SMT Hautes Tech, a Laval-based pcb board shop.

PCB

QUEBEC CAPITAL FUND INVESTS $68M IN SMT HAUTES TECH

Quebec-based development capital fund Fonds de solidarité FTQ has invested $68-million to support the growth of Laval-based SMT Hautes Technologies, becoming a minority shareholder in the company. SMT is a North American leader in electronic printed circuit board manufacturing with cutting-edge plants, using robotics and the integration of artificial intelligence to enable global projects, while competing with Asian markets.

Specializing in the assembly of highly complex electronic and electromechanical pcb assemblies, SMT Hautes Tech operates in the healthcare, defence, automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, mining and entertainment sectors. Visit ept.ca for the latest new products, news and industry events. EPT.CA

Photo: Mitacs,Thornhill Medical; Group/Fonds de solidarité FTQ

IOT

HARD TECH

New M series High Power

Hygienic Echo captures HardTech pitch contest

Photo: VentureLAB

Markham-based Hygienic Echo Inc. captured the top award at this year’s VentureLAB HardTech Pitch Competition - for its Buddy Badge System.

Eight leading-edge Canadian technology firms lined up to pitch their ground-breaking ideas in front of a panel of judges as part of the VentureLAB HardTech Pitch Competition. In the end, it was Toronto-based Hygienic Echo Inc. that cleaned-up, capturing the first place cash prize of $30,000 for its Buddy Badge System – a smart hand hygiene and infection control solution, designed for use in medical, healthcare, foodservice and institutional environments. Essentially, the system operates as an intermittent deployment of an electronic monitoring system on hand hygiene behaviors in healthcare workers. The HardTech Pitch Competition is exclusively open to small and medium enterprises in Canada who are pioneering breakthrough products and innovations in hardware technology for a chance to win a collective $50,000 in cash prizes. For the very first time, ventureLAB received an impressive 46 applications from across the country. Accepting the award during the ventureLAB gala dinner event in Markham ON was Catharine Hancharek, COO & VP of partnerships and Majid Janidarmian, CTO & VP of engineering. Toronto-based medical equipment OEM, Able Innovations performed a double-dip in the winner’s circle, capturing the second-place prize of $20,000,

as well as the Siemens Software Award. Able Innovations develops advanced medical devices, such as patient transfer equipment used in healthcare environments. The tech is poised to replace existing methods used, which leads to a high rate of injuries for care workers and patients. Aside from the winners, six other firms presented their projects to the judging panel: Applied Brain Research Inc., pioneers of low-power, cloud-independent devices with groundbreaking AI processors and a proprietary, patented algorithm, the Legendre Memory Unit. Digitho, developers of a solution that is integrated into the lithography process in semiconductor manufacturing and is the first company in the industry to bring this innovative solution via the programmable photomask. Enertics provides industrial IOT solutions to customers with a vision to lead the innovations in industrial asset monitoring and management technologies. Just Vertical, developers of an indoor gardens, which fuse vertical farming with modern design . Longan Vision designed enhanced vision and communication devices. Steadiwear builds novel stabilization technology designed to reduce hand tremors, improving quality of life and independence.

Designed for the most stringent high power distribution requirements • Up to 430A max rated current • Unipole & Multipole inserts including mixed high & low voltage contacts • Broad range of lightweight aluminium shells • Compact design for space savings • High shock and vibration resistance • Reverse gender configuration • Wide temperature range –55°C to 200°C • Sealed to IP68 mated; IP68 unmated as options • Ratchet-coupling mechanism • Scoop proof & IP2X finger protection • 360° screening for full EMC

LEMO Canada Inc. Phone : 905-889-5678 info-canada@lemo.com www.lemo.com/contact

facebook.com/lemoconnectors January/February 2024 / EP&T

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2023-12-08 1:04 PM

WEST TECH REPORT

Tech catalyst invigorates New Zealand firms in Canada

CPTPP forms comprehensive and progressive trans-pacific partnership BY SOHAIL KAMAL, WEST COAST CORRESPONDENT

Matt Richie, New Zealand trade commissioner is based in Vancouver.

Invest time and resources

Particularly in AI, health tech and cybersecurity, New Zealand’s tech firms invest time and resources in understanding the market, developing their precise value propositions and ideal customer profiles for North American Markets. “Building the correct go-to-market strategies, as none of these are necessarily the same as what they would be doing, for example, in Australia or the UK, which are other key markets for NZ tech companies,” says Ritchie. This involves intensive market research, developing distinct value propositions, and ensuring regulatory compliance, especially in data hosting, according to Ritchie. A key strategy includes locating sales and customer success functions in Canada or the US, even if product development remains offshore. Canada’s tech hubs, notably 8

ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY / January/February 2024

Waterloo and Vancouver, offer a conducive environment for New Zealand’s tech startups. Factors like common law similarities, diverse culture, and supportive immigration policies make Canada a strategic choice. Additionally, Vancouver’s accessibility and time zone alignment with New Zealand, along with Waterloo’s vibrant tech ecosystem, provide unique advantages. “Vancouver is one of the most easily accessible cities in Canada for New Zealand companies, primarily due to direct flights to and from Auckland. Vancouver’s fast-growing tech talent pool, collaborative and committed tech community, and leading universities also make it an attractive location,” explains Ritchie. “The high-quality, all-season outdoor lifestyle Vancouver offers also makes it an attractive city for many New Zealand tech businesses when considering where to position a base.” These common factors contribute to helping New Zealand tech companies support Canada’s businesses, and the collaboration is leading to strides made in education, marine, SaaS, and construction tech sectors. The compatibility of New Zealand’s education systems with Canada’s, combined with technological innovations in marine and aviation, align well with Canadian needs. There are geographic reasons for this as well, as Ritchie explains. “For marine and aviation, because of the remoteness of B.C. and Canada in general, a lot of what comes out of New Zealand suits Canada well,” Ritchie says, as both nations have a low population density. “For example, tracking tech and systems that can be put in aircrafts. A lot of these aviation companies were at the Helicopter Association of Canada (HAC) Conference in Vancouver, where we had an event to connect New Zealand aviation companies targeting Canada.” Notable examples of successful

New Zealand tech companies in Canada include Xero in cloud accounting, StoryPark in education tech, Timescapes in construction sector analytics, Boxfish Robotics in underwater exploration, and Eye in the Sky in aviation safety. Moreover, the partnership with the Accelerator Centre in Waterloo has been a game-changer, providing market access and investor readiness programs.

NZ success examples

Xero is one of New Zealand’s largest tech companies. A leader in cloud accounting, Xero’s small business platform provides a core accounting solution, payroll, workforce management, expenses and project management support for almost 4M subscribers around the world and almost 400,000 in North America. Xero’s North American HQ has been based in Toronto since 2018. Driven by its CAD$75M acquisition of TaxCycle (Alberta) in 2021, Xero has expanded significantly into Western Canada and has a current Canadian headcount of 250. StoryPark is a private, secure online learning platform for early childhood educators, owners and operators of early childhood centres, and parents. The platform involves families more actively in a child’s learning journey whilst offering new understanding and ways of working together as a team, while providing insights that enable more intentional and immediate responses and with more cohesive communication. The relationship between Canada and New Zealand, bolstered by the CPTPP and shared values, has opened new avenues for innovation and collaboration. As New Zealand’s tech industry continues to expand its footprint in Canada, the future holds promising prospects for both countries. https://www.nzte.govt.nz Sohail Kamal is EP&T’s West Coast correspondent. sohail@nextgear.ca

Photo: NZTE

For the past half-decade, a free trade agreement involving New Zealand, has been a catalyst for that country’s tech companies. The trans-pacific partnership, recognized by its acronym – CPTPP, has been facilitating easier business operations in Canada. While the agreement primarily targets goods imports and exports, its benefits extend to tech sectors, improving visa access, procurement processes and support for SMEs. In this edition of West Tech Report, we connect with Matt Ritchie, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise’s (NZTE) Trade Commissioner and Consul General based in Vancouver. The group discussed how this partnership has bolstered New Zealand’s tech sector and how it has supported Canada’s tech industry. In the past five years, there’s been a significant increase in New Zealand tech firms working in Canada, tripling the number that NZTE works with here. “New Zealand tech companies are increasingly looking at Canada… as a potential North American base for their operations,” explains Ritchie.

EPT.CA

THINK GREEN

EU project addresses e-waste challenges

Sustronics leads the way on more environmentally friendly electronics The EU project Sustronics has kicked-off with the aim to lead the European electronics industry towards sustainable materials, design, manufacturing methods, and improved circularity and energy efficiency. The project has a budget of EUR $40 million, with about a fourth coming directly from the EU under KDT JU instrument. Headed by Philips, the Sustronics project will pioneer design, materials and manufacturing of devices that will comply with strict sustainability demands dictated by the goals of the Green Deal and help companies meet the requirements of upcoming EU legislation concerning sustainable products. The three-year project comprises nine pilots with the aim of redesigning existing devices or creating entirely new ones.

Photo: © Gabriel Cassan / Adobe Stock

Ecodesign for sustainable products

Environmental and resource realities are also joined by legislative pressure to address sustainability issues with electronics. During early 2024, new legislation – Ecodesign for Sustainable Products – concerning sustainability requirements of products will go into effect. As a result, all products sold in the EU will be required to prove their sustainability. The new legislation will impact both the European electronics industry as well as any company coming into the EU market. “In the near future, companies and consumers will need to choose the sustainable route in the manufacturing and consumption of electronics. The fact is that the current mainstream materials used in consumer and enterprise electronics are finite – we will run out of them,” says Liisa Hakola, senior scientist and senior project manager at VTT, one of Europe’s leading research institutions located in Espoo Finland and owned by the Finnish state. “We want to change the foundation of the industry so that sustainable materials and processes become the @EPTmagazine

With a strong focus on green technology, Sustronics seeks to make a lasting impact on the electronics industry in Europe

new normal for electronic products – without compromising the performance, and circulated products will be a mainstream option for consumers,”

Addressing Green Deal objectives

The ambition of Sustronics is to be the leading project that builds an ecosystem showcasing how the electronics industry can address its sustainability challenges. For example, due to rich natural resources, such as cellulose, and scientific expertise of multiple research and development organisations, Europe is a global leader in the field of bio-based materials. With participants representing, e.g., research hubs, material companies, device manufacturers, and electronic recycling, the Sustronics project will further strengthen the strategic autonomy of Europe as a leading, independent technology

hub while addressing Green Deal objectives. The main goal of the Sustronics project is to transform the European electronics industry by harnessing the power of sustainable practices and fostering innovation. By combining eco-friendly electronics, increased productivity, and the development of cutting-edge functionalities, the project aims to propel the industry towards a more sustainable and prosperous future. With a strong focus on green technology and novel business opportunities, Sustronics seeks to make a lasting impact on the electronics landscape in Europe. The main goal of the Sustronics project is to transform the European electronics industry by harnessing the power of sustainable practices and fostering innovation. https://sustronics.eu/ January/February 2024 / EP&T

TRANSPORTATION AUTOMOTIVE

FEATURE

Studio63 gets vehicle designs to the finish line Niche Ottawa engineering group drives leading-edge automobile technology BY STEPHEN LAW, EDITOR

From software to hardware, if you are looking to get to the finish line with an automotive electronics design, Studio63 seems to have the inside track with a trunk-full of leading-edge technology to steer you in the right direction. The multi-faceted Ottawa-based design house has found its niche in the automotive market, whether its integrating new technologies or conducting an internal/external design of a vehicle. Studio63 specializes in building out demo dashboards in test vehicles - often including lidar radars, cameras, screens and computers so that automotive OEM clients can showcase them. “A typical scenario is when a client wants to test their latest infotainment design against a competitor’s. You don’t want to showcase the entire new vehicle, as it won’t be ready at this stage,” said Miles Hammond, president, Studio63. “By using a test (or dummy) vehicle, users are able to get in the vehicle, and touch the buttons and screens, and provide feedback, while directly comparing it to their competitors.” While having worked with such major global brands as Subaru, BlackBerry QNX and Amazon, Studio63 puts its primary focus on smaller, start-up players. One of the notable projects has involved working with a company called Gatik, an OEM of autonomous box trucks targeting middleman delivery - from store to

store or from warehouse to store on a fixed route. Gatik’s driverless commercial delivery vehicles are presently deployed across Ontario, Texas and Arkansas. “We designed and built over 14 trucks for them, including all the technology integration. All the cameras, lidars computers, everything to make that truck get on the road, came through our studio, we did all the design work, we did all the fabrication work, we did all the electrical, we did all the install,” Hammond enthused. Given the nature of the automotive/transportation market, each client’s needs can vary, according to Hammond. “We are a service-based company. We’re not bringing our own technology into it, although we’re starting to with our infotainment solution. We are facilitating and joining some of our clients together. So, if we’ve worked with a company that is developing a camera, we may recommend them to a different company who requires cameras in their end-designs. On the topic of cameras, Hammond suggests the digital photographic devices are having the greatest impact on car interior tech designs these days, while predicting that in three years consumers will not be able to buy a vehicle that does not leverage camera technology for some sort of driver or passenger monitoring system. “You’re instantly replacing an old technology with a new technology

“There is a lot of back and forth - just in terms of the interface between the electronics and the hardware. The different design groups work together non-stop - it’s a seemless integration” 10 ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY / January/February 2024

Ottawa-based Studio63 has designed much of the technology inside Gatik’s autonomous box trucks used for middleman delivery.

that is as reliable and it works seamlessly. We can’t do our jobs without electronic design, whether that involves custom pcbs, or housings especially in the domain controller, which is the really the ‘brains’ of the vehicle,” Hammond noted. “When you have, let’s say, a new vehicle, and you’ve got a battery monitoring system, and an accelerator, you need those elements to talk together and to be able to display that information on the screen. We cannot do that without access to electronic engineers, designing and developing this type of custom hardware.” Hammond notes that every one of his clients has slightly different requirements. As a result, Studio63 leans heavily on its electronic engineers, and designers to create multiple different solutions. “It doesn’t happen by magic. We have the electronic team, and then we’ve got the software team to create - and then I’ll do all the integration work and the design work to make it happen. So, between those three disciplines, we can come up with an amazing solution,” Hammond adds. EPT.CA

Photo: Studio63 (Gatik)

Miles Hammond, (above) president of Ottawa-based Studio63, says car designers are seeing a purposeful shift back to a more tactile engagement with vehicle interiors today.

“Designing with a team is an ongoing process.” Hammond and his collage of engineering disciplines do gather frequently on site while collaborating on a specific project, typically using a garage space on-site. “There is a lot of back and forth, even though we’re in separate locations, just in terms of the interface between the electronics and the hardware. We’re constantly jumping on calls to discuss how we’re going to achieve the wiring, or a heat-related challenge. So, it’s not a hub so much - we just work together nonstop. It’s a seamless integration,” Hammond explained. Referring to electronics as ‘the hub’ for most designs, Hammond underscores the importance of implementing a level of project management into the mix, so that communication is flowing to all the different moving parts within a project. “You can’t design in a silo by yourself - you can’t just go to a basement, sit down and do this. You’ve got to talk to every single other discipline – including all the suppliers, and all @EPTmagazine

the other electronic guys who are dealing with different systems. It really is a collaborative initiative today. As opposed to back in the day, when you could have one guy working on a motor and one guy working on a transmission, and one guy working on the tailights. That all goes through a single hub now - to understand how to integrate them,” he said. Hammond says the automotive designer community in Canada continues to face headwinds of forced cost reduction. “I don’t know how it’s gonna shake out, but we’re being pressured to find very low cost solutions. But, to still move the needle on technology,” noted Hammond. Hustling to prepare six demos to be presented at this January’s CES show in Las Vegas, Hammond champions the prospects of attending live, in-person events, especially for exposing the younger members of his team, which may have shown reluctance to these types of events in the past. “We have a lot of post-graduate university students that end-up working here and I find their attitudes

towards trade shows changes really quickly once immersed in them,” Hammond explained. “I always say to people, ‘Look, if we’re expected to be designing, cutting edge technology to be on the world stage, if you don’t know what the world stage is, how are you going to do it yourself? You’ve got to get out and see what other people are doing, what technologies are out there, and what materials or finishes are available.” Speaking of alternate design perspectives, Hammond noted a trend emerging in car design, which includes consumer push-back on the level of technology found in most vehicles today –often dubbed ‘iPhone on wheels’ by consumer media. In the past decade, the industry has seen the needle swing hard to the digital side of human machine interface (HMI). Hammond has observed a purposeful shift back to more tactile engagement within a car’s interior design.Working in conjunction with modern touchscreen displays and voice activated options, mechanical buttons are coming back into the design cycle, he says. “I really feel that there’s going to be the shuffle out of technology, where you’re using digital screens that offer amazing advantages, but drivers also have an option to use tactile buttons that they can find without looking you can just reach out, grab it, push it, twist it, turn it. We’ve already started doing that,” Hammond said. “We’re listening to our clients during the demos - we’re trying to evaluate what works best?.You have the best of both worlds moving forward.” Studio63, Ottawa-based design house with a full stack team of expertise to deliver products and serices to the transportation sector. http://studio63.ca January/February 2024 / EP&T

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TRANSPORTATION AUTOMOTIVE

FEATURE

OVIN accelerates Ontario’s position in auto design sector Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network captures, capitalizes economic potential

Q. In what ways does OVIN 14

support and foster the growth of start-ups in the vehicle technology sector?

OVIN supports the growth of startups and small- and medium-sized enterprises through funding, as well as business and other technical supports. Our R&D Partnership Fund provides start-ups and SMEs the necessary seed funding to develop and advance automotive and mobility technologies and provides them with the opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders that may become customers for their innovations. In addition, our Regional Technology Development Sites provide start-ups and SMEs with access to business and technical supports catered towards specific regional strengths that enable start-ups and SMEs reach potential customers and ensure that they are developing technologies in line with evolving demand for automotive and mobility solutions.

Q. How does OVIN support research and development efforts led by electronic engineers, particularly in the context of advancing electronic systems within vehicles?

As mentioned earlier, OVIN supports the research and development in the automotive and mobility sector through R&D partnership funds. Approved projects in this program can receive co-investment of up to $1,000,000 toward the development, testing and validation of electric vehicle and battery-focused technologies, as well as connected and autonomous vehicles and smart mobility solutions. These projects encompass everything

ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY / January/February 2024

OVIN provides support for PhD graduates to work on industry R&D projects related to automotive and smart mobiity technology.

Raed Kadri, VP of strategic initiatives & head of OVIN discusses the various levels of support his government intiative provides.

from electrified powertrain design and charging infrastructure to object detection system and navigation services in the autonomous driving, and electronic engineers play essential roles in advancing all these projects.

Q. How does OVIN actively engage with electronic engineers in the development of cutting-edge vehicle technologies, and what role do they play in OVIN’s initiatives?

OVIN commits to engaging experts in the development of relevant technologies in the automotive and mobility sector through different streams; R&D Partnership Fund which supports SME’s projects in the auto and mobility field, the Talent Development fellowships and internships, and other events and programs running by OVIN. From the Smart Mobility Readiness Forum to the Partnering Forum to OCI’s annual Discovery showcase, OVIN engages public sector, as well as experts from both industry and academia in the auto and mobility area to gather and share insights. The events lead to facilitating dialogue, providing resources, identifying challenges and opportunities, and encouraging collaboration amongst municipal stakeholders, including public transit agencies and infrastructure owners and operators.

Q. Can you elaborate on how OVIN promotes the integration of electronic components into vehicle design and manufacturing processes for EPT.CA

Photo: :metamorworks / iStock / Getty Images.; OVIN

As Ontario’s flagship initiative for the automotive and mobility sector, the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) harnesses the province’s unique strengths, capabilities, and resources to catalyze a future that is built on safer, cleaner, and more efficient transportation. Launched by the Provincial Government two years ago, OVIN is a flagship program aimed at driving innovation and investment across Ontario’s electric, connected and autonomous vehicle sector. Recognizing that the sector is undergoing a significant shift defined by technological advancements and evolving mobility preferences, OVIN seeks to capitalize on the economic potential of advanced automotive and smart mobility solutions, such as connected, autonomous and electric vehicles and enabling the province’s transportation and infrastructure networks to adapt to this evolution. OVIN is a key component of Phase Two of Driving Prosperity, the Ontario Government’s master plan for strengthening Ontario’s position as a North American and global automotive and mobility industry leader. OVIN does this by bringing together Southern Ontario’s over 100-year manufacturing history, Northern Ontario’s wealth of critical minerals, and capacity for innovation in emerging technologies all across the province. For this article we conduct a Q&A session with Raed Kadri, vice-president, strategic initiatives and head of OVIN.

collaborators to support SMEs in the development, testing, prototyping, validation and commercialization of automotive technology and smart mobility solutions. Each regional site focuses on a unique aspect of the automotive and smart mobility sector, and three of these sites are involved in key areas such as hardware and semiconductors, data science, virtual reality and digital twinning. These sites serve as exemplary innovation hubs, offering substantial benefits to electronic engineers and designers engaged in vehicle-related projects.

enhanced functionality and efficiency?

OVIN facilitates the integration of electronic components into vehicle design and manufacturing in two key ways. Firstly, through the R&D partnership- EV program, which supports projects related to the development and demonstration of technologies in electric vehicles (EV) and battery manufacturing technologies.We have supported several projects focusing on EV batteries, semiconductors, and hardware/software integration. Furthermore, our OVIN Talent Development Program, provides support for PhD graduates and post-doctoral fellows, to work on industry-driven research and development projects related to automotive and smart mobility technology. Additive manufacturing process for printed electronic devices, test processes for various electronics modules and fabrication of non-traditional transistor structures are example of the internship and fellowship projects that OVIN has developed over the years.

Q. Does OVIN facilitate innovation hubs or provide resources specifically tailored to electronic engineers and designers working on vehiclerelated projects?

The Regional Technology Development Sites (RTDS) are an OVIN initiative which enables physical sites across the regions to bring together post-secondary institutions, regional innovation centres, incubators/accelerators, municipal and regional resources, industry and other regional @EPTmagazine

Q. In what ways does OVIN contribute to the professional development of electronic engineers and designers, ensuring they have the skills needed for the evolving landscape of vehicle technology?

OVIN leads a number of initiatives that support skills, talent, and workforce development across Ontario, more broadly, as well as professional development of budding engineers, designers, and other innovators in the automotive and mobility sector. Our Talent Development Internships and Fellowships Program provides Ontario SMEs access to critically needed talent as they embark on crucial R&D projects, while at the same time nurturing the skills development and expertise of engineers and designers at various stages in their education and/or career. Through the program, we help fund internship and fellowship positions for undergraduate and graduate students/post-doc fellows, respectively, and provide them with the opportunity to be at the forefront of leading-edge technology development, which is crucial to nurturing their skills and expertise, and the province’s talent pool as a whole. Similarly, we are also looking to the future of talent in the sector, more broadly. Our Skills,Talent, and Workforce Development initiatives target both current and future automotive workforce to ensure that we have a sustainable talent pipeline across the sector. We are actively engaging the youngest minds to help them explore careers in the sector, while working to provide upskilling and reskilling resources to current workers to ensure that they have the necessary

skills, education, and training to keep up with the evolving automotive technology landscape.

Q. How does OVIN foster the growth of start-ups specifically focused on electronic engineering and design within the realm of vehicle innovation?

At OVIN, we strive to keep our ears close to the ground and cultivate industry expertise that keeps our team and stakeholders informed of critical developments in the sector with respect to vehicle innovation. Our team is constantly out in the ecosystem to discover emerging start-ups and SMEs with immense potential for growth, and we work with them to explore opportunities for collaboration and taking their capacity for innovation to the next level. Through active engagement with Ontario-based innovators, we are able to get ahead of the curve in terms of emerging trends and demand for new technologies and find out what start-ups and SMEs are working on that can cater to this demand and contribute to Ontario’s thriving economy driven by automotive innovation.

Q. Can you discuss any emerging trends or technologies in the electronic engineering field that OVIN is particularly interested in or sees as transformative for the future of vehicle innovation?

Given the essential role that the hardware electronics and semiconductors play in the design and manufacturing of EVs and CAVs, OVIN is interested in the emerging technologies in this field. Additionally, OVIN is particularly interested in cutting-edge technologies related to battery development and innovative battery design. These advancements have the potential to significantly expedite the manufacturing process of batteries and enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of EVs and CAVs. Raed Kadri is Vice-President, Strategic Initiatives and Head of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), an initiative by the Government of Ontario to ensure the province’s leadership in the future of the automotive and mobility sector. https://www.ovinhub.ca/ January/February 2024 / EP&T

FEATURE

Security framework protects image data BY PHILIP HAWKES & RICK WIETFELDT, CO-CHAIRS MIPI SECURITY There’s no doubt that image sensors play a crucial role in advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous driving. Today, the systems used to deliver the most advanced SAE Level 2 features typically utilize up to six image sensors, and that number is projected to increase significantly as more SAE Level 3 and beyond systems are introduced. Because of their safety-critical role in ADAS/AD systems, protecting image data against cybersecurity risks is paramount to the security of the overall vehicle. Security key for advanced image sensor-enabled ADAS It is essential for vehicle manufacturers to make advanced image sensor-enabled ADAS secure to protect against cybersecurity risks such as the installation of illegitimate substandard image sensor components, malicious manipulation of sensor data, and privacy violations from unauthorized access to images and any image-related metadata. To mitigate

Example placement of external image sensors and other sensors on a vehicle.

ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY / January/February 2024

these risks, the following security requirements must be considered: • ‘End-to-end data’ protection. Image data must be protected from ‘data source’ within each image sensor, to “data sink” within the sensor’s corresponding ECU SoC. This requirement favors the use of application layer security (as opposed to link layer), which provides end-to-end security irrespective of underlying communication network topology. • Component authentication. Components within the imaging system must be trusted, requiring the capability (by the ECU) to authenticate image sensors and the communication network components used to connect sensors to an ECU (e.g., SerDes bridges). • Source-selective security. The authenticity and integrity of image data generated by an image sensor must be verified by the ECU. This requires authentication tags containing message authentication codes (MACs) to be added into image data streams.This is not a trivial

task, and advanced techniques such as implementing partial data integrity protection, where the level of protection is “flexed” based on the criticality of the data sent within each image frame, may be leveraged to optimize the system design. This can reduce the heat generated in sensors, thus maintain the desired image quality, and reduce system power consumption. • Configurable data encryption. Where there is a risk of malicious data exfiltration from the imaging system, end-to-end data encryption should be applied. Solutions that allow the strength of encryption to be configured depending upon the level of risk should be leveraged to optimize the system design. • Secure command and control interfaces. It is essential to secure image sensor command-and-control interfaces, which today typically leverage I2C sideband interfaces, to mitigate risks arising from misconfigured sensors. • Standards-based framework. It is highly recommended that industry-verified security standards be leveraged within automotive imaging systems. Implementing Security • At the same time, the security requirements described above present multiple design challenges that must be overcome within the imaging system. For instance: • Imaging system security functions must be designed to operate within strict power and heat dissipation targets to limit overall cost and complexity of the system. • Due to the massive amount of data generated by image sensors, these systems require the use of specialized high-speed serial-deserializer (SerDes) communication links between the sensors and the processing ECU SoC. It is essential for security to be implemented with minimal data overhead to avoid exceeding the SerDes bandwidth. • To minimize cable harness weight and complexity, multiple image sensors will need to be connected using various communication network topologies, such as in a daisy chain or tree structure. Security functions should be agnostic of the underlying network topology to enable end-to-end security EPT.CA

Photo: MIPI Alliance

TRANSPORTATION AUTOMOTIVE

irrespective of the underlying components (bridges, forwarding elements, etc.) used to provide the communication network. Overcoming design challenges Developed initially for the mobile phone market, MIPI Camera Serial Interface 2 (CSI-2) has quickly become the de facto imaging protocol used within automotive imaging systems. To complement the use of CSI-2, in 2020 MIPI Alliance introduced the A-PHY physical layer interface to address the need for a standardized long-reach, highly reliable, asymmetric SerDes solution to simplify the integration of image sensors into automotive. To further complement CSI-2, in early 2024, MIPI will begin rolling out a security framework, initially consisting of four security specifications, to address the aforementioned security requirements and design challenges for automotive imaging systems. These security specifications will include: • MIPI Camera Service Extensions (CSE) v2.0 – applies data integrity protection and optional encryption to CSI-2 data. This is in addition to the functional safety services provided in CSE v1.0. • MIPI Command and Control Interface Service Extensions (CCISE) v1.0 – applies data integrity protection and optional encryption to the camera command and control interface (CCI) based on I2C. • MIPI Security v1.0 – defines a system security management suite, using the DMTF (Distributed Management Task Force) SPDM (Security Protocol and Data Model) architecture, to authenticate and establish secure sessions between system components and manage the security services provided by CSE and CCISE. • MIPI Security Profiles v1.0 – specifies a set of common security profiles to enable interoperability, including profiling SPDM authentication mechanisms used in the MIPI Security specification.

integrity tag modes and security controls, providing a high degree of implementation flexibility to balance required security levels against processing efficiency, implementation complexity, thermal regulation and power consumption. A key attribute to achieve this flexibility is the framework’s support of source-selective security, which enables a developer to flex the level of security based on the structure of the CSI-2 image frame. The key features of the MIPI security

Further information can be found on the MIPI website. http://www.mipi.org

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The initial release of the security framework focuses on securing the automotive use cases described in this article. While acknowledging this initial focus, the framework is also highly applicable to IoT use cases that leverage CSI-2-based image sensors for machine vision applications. MIPI security framework The security framework will bring end-toend security to automotive imaging systems that leverage the CSI-2 protocol. The framework enables authentication of system components, data integrity protection and data encryption. It provides implementers with a choice of security protocols, ciphersuites,

framework are: • Choice of security protocol. • Choice of ciphersuites. • Choice of integrity tag modes. • Highly granular security controls. Future additions to the framework to add security for MIPI DSI-2 automotive display applications are slated for late 2024.

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2023-11-09 2:11 PM

Rest Easy.

Relax. Interpower® Has 1-Week Lead-Times On Power Cords

Interpower North American (NEMA) 5-15, 5-20, 6-15, 6-20 cords and cord sets, and international cords with correct country-specific amperages and voltages will arrive at your door ready to use right out of the box. In 2008, Iowa-based Interpower began their industry-unique, 1-week lead-time, and remains one of only two U.S. companies manufacturing power cords. Interpower cord sets are manufactured in Lamoni and Oskaloosa, Iowa, and ship straight from the factory. Want them hanked, coiled, tied, bagged and individually boxed? Need 1-D or QR barcodes for easier warehousing? Customized lengths, colors, packaging and labeling are also available—mark your cords with specialized labels such as “IT,” “Operating Room 1,” “Shipping & Receiving.” Oh, yeah—in-stock cords ship the same day!

Add scheduled or blanket ordering and your cords will arrive even if you’re still at the beach. That way your cords will arrive at scheduled intervals throughout a calendar year at the price you’ve already locked in— even if the beach is now your home. All Interpower cords and components are manufactured in accordance with Interpower’s product quality plan: hipot testing, continuity testing, and ground testing with multiple inspections. All U.S.A.-made Interpower cords, cord sets, and components are tested and retested until surpassing all worldwide agency standards—not just UL, VDE, and IEC standards, but country-specific standards worldwide.

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“We test more than is required for our own benefit,” Product Development Manager Ron Barnett says. “The standards, such as the one for the UL 2556 Vertical Flame Test, are bare minimums. We go beyond the standards because it lends better reliability to our design—products become more reliable in that regard.” One such Interpower torture is the Abrupt Pull Test at our Test Lab in Ames, Iowa, which features a typical NEMA 5-15 plug. A 2 ½ pound weight is dropped 25 times from the plug. At the start, three lights on the test equipment glow red showing electrical continuity. However, during the test, if one of the three wires fails (line, neutral, and ground) and one or more lights go out, the test is considered a failure. If that occurs, the plug is examined to see why the continuity was broken. Other notable tests include the Vertical Flame, the Temperature-Rise, the Breaking Capacity, the Crimp Cross-section, and more. “Some products we test more often than others due to the volume we manufacture, such as our line of C13 cords and cord sets,” Barnett says. Interpower makes it easy for engineers, purchasers, and end-users to design, build, and maintain electrical products for North American and international markets—that’s their mission on a global scale. We strive to provide customers with quality electrical products and industry knowledge . . . FAST.

So, isn’t it time to rest your supply-chain mind? Float in a sea of tranquility and embrace the cord possibilities? Interpower’s world-class customer service is waiting to hear from you from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST: to help you navigate the tangled web of power cords, cord sets, connectors, connector plugs, inlets and outlets, amps and clamps? It’s said they even have an electrical cord guru on staff still waiting to be stumped. Why wait?

FEATURE

Connected vehicles drive up EMC testing

SGS sees upswing as automotive electronics expands BY SGS Last year, the global consumer electronics market is expected to be worth more than USD $1-billion, with a predicted annual growth rate of 2.32%. The largest segment in the sector is telephony, with an estimated value of USD 498.3 billion. The connected vehicle sector is also growing rapidly. Worth almost USD $60-billion in 2020, it is forecast the global market will reach USD $191.83 by 2028. Connectivity has become a central part of everyday life, with most automobiles and consumer electronics now connected to the internet of things (IoT). This is true even for those who do not actively engage in the online world. Behind the scenes, many of the devices we all rely on for safety, entertainment, information and communication constantly interact with the IoT for updates and the data they need to provide a good level of user functionality. This makes it vital that consumer electricals are independently tested to ensure

electromagnetic radiation won’t negatively impact function or other electronic devices.

Electromagnetic radiation

All electric devices emit electromagnetic radiation. In isolation, this will not cause an issue for the user but, with the proliferation of electrical devices, there is a high chance that radiation from one or more devices could impact the operability of other devices in the area. This would mean equipment failing to function properly. At best, the user is left frustrated and disappointed but, at worst,

20 ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY / January/February 2024 Untitled-1 1

it could place them at risk if the device is designed to protect them. For manufacturers and suppliers of electronic devices this could mean more than just unhappiness, it could also mean noncompliance with market regulations. Governments around the world enforce regulations to protect consumers and ensure the continued functioning of infrastructure. For example, EMC and RF are covered under the radio equipment directive 2014/53/EU (RED) in the European Union (EU), which establishes a regulatory framework for placing radio equipment on the

market. In Great Britain (GB), there is the Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016 and, in the USA, the FCC. Both national and international organizations have published EMC/RF standards to ensure the correct functioning of electrical devices to help manufacturers and governments protect users and vital infrastructure. This includes the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), which has several committees dedicated to the issue of EMC/RF. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can occur naturally, for example in electrical storms, but it is more often associated with electronic devices. If EMI emissions are not minimized, they can disturb the functioning of other equipment that is not sufficiently immune to the impact of electromagnetic radiation. EMC measures a device’s immunity/susceptibility to electromagnetic energy and the amount of EMI it generates in its internal electrical systems. EMC testing ensures a product is sufficiently protected from external electromagnetic radiation while also ensuring it won’t affect other pieces of electrical equipment. Failure to evaluate the EMC/ RF compliance can have severe negative consequences, such as safety risk, product failure and data loss. The article was written and submitted by SGS, providers of EMC/RF testing. https://www.sgs.com/en/services

EPT.CA 2023-12-21 9:13 AM

Photo:© tong2530 / Adobe Stock

TRANSPORTATION AUTOMOTIVE

DESIGN SOURCE TRANSPORTATION

NEW PRODUCTS

INDUCTIVE POSITION SENSING IC BOOSTS ACCURACY IN AUTOMOTIVE DESIGNS

NEXT-GEN PROCESSOR TARGETS EMBEDDED AUTOMOTIVE

SYNOPSYS RISC-V ARC-V Processor IP enables users to choose from a broad range of flexible, extensible processor options that deliver improved power-performance efficiency for their target applications. Device is built on the proven microarchitecture of firm’s existing ARC processors, with the added benefit of the expanding RISC-V software ecosystem. Product includes high-performance, mid-range and ultra-low power options, as well as functional safety versions, to address a broad range of application workloads. https://www.synopsys.com/ designware-ip/processor-solutions/arc-v-processors.html

MLCC WITH REVERSED TERMINATION DELIVERS LOW ESL

MURATA LLC series multi-layer ceramic capacitors for automotive applications features a reversed termination for low ESL and come in a 0.18mm profile package, and a footprint of 0.5 x 1.0mm for 1µF capacitance. Product series uses firm’s proprietary thin-layer forming and high-precision lamination technology, along with advanced material atomization and homogenization @EPTmagazine

techniques to achieve about 20% reduction in component height compared with existing parts. This opens up the potential to more-easily fit the capacitors on the back-side of circuit boards, even amongst solder ball terminations. https://www.murata.com

MELEXIS MLX90513 inductive sensor IC enhances accuracy - especially for automotive pedal and steering applications. The ASIL C sensor interface features on-chip digital signal processing for enhanced zero-delay performances. The position sensor delivers a ±0.1% full-scale accuracy (±0.36˚ in a rotary implementation with 360˚ range). In addition, its sub-20µs latency, which can be reduced to zero through programming, means that a fast control loop can be implemented resulting in improved system responsiveness being assured. https://www.melexis.com/en

HARDWARE ROOT-OFTRUST SOLUTION MEETS FUNCTIONAL SAFETY THRU-HOLE MOUNT STANDARDS FOR CARS TEST POINTS ARE COLOUR-KEYED INTRINSIC ID QuiddiKey 400 hardware-based root-of-trust (RoT) solution for semiconductors in the automotive market meets stringent functional safety standards. Product has been developed following an ISO 26262 functional-safety-compliant flow and meets the ISO 26262 Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL) B fault metric and ASIL D for systematics failures. It leverages SRAM PUF technology to create a hardware-based RoT that secures and protects electronic systems and components. Product provides a reliable RoT for ASIC, SoC, MCU and FPGA-based devices, which prevents attacks that can compromise functional safety and provides components with an unclonable identity to protect against counterfeiting. https://www.intrinsic-id.com

EMX ENTERPRISES Keystone Electronics line of thru-hole mount test points with a colour-keyed insulator base provides visibility and quick identification to replace wire-wrap posts and turret terminals. The wire loop THM test points may be used on .062” and .093” thick pcbs with a variety of gripping devices: J-hooks, EZ-hooks, grabbers, alligator clips, tips and probes. Devices are designed to keep on-board terminals perpendicular to the pcb so that relative position, during and after wave soldering is maintained. https://www.emx.ca

CUSTOMIZED WIRE HARNESS SOLUTIONS SAVES TOOLING TIME SCHURTER Custom wire harness solutions

include ready-to-connect cables, cable bundles and complete wire harnesses with connectors, contacts, or wire-end sleeves. Firm’s widespread offering of components and wire harness options, together with its in-house expertise, meets the technical, safe, and economic requirements of its customers’ all in a one-stop shop. Saving time and costs in tooling and set-up, the service includes several types of ready to install wires, cables or wire

harnesses with custom specific end terminal connections. https://www.schurter.com/en

CABLE-TO-CABLE CONNECTORS ARE RUGGED, COMPACT

HARWIN Datamate cable-to-cable connectors are reliable, rugged and compact with 2mm pitch and are suitable for many demanding applications on land, sea and air, offering established high reliability in a COTS connector system. Designed for

mating one cable harness to another, the proven 4-finger contact design guarantees electrical contact through high vibration and shock. Housings are polarized and shrouded for mechanical protection and error-free mating. Rugged stainless jackscrews or easy-to-mate latches ensure secure connections under extreme environmental conditions. https://cdn.harwin.com/pdfs Visit ept.ca for the latest new products, news and industry events. January/February 2024 / EP&T

DESIGN SOURCE TRANSPORTATION

NEW PRODUCTS

RECTIFIER AND TVS COMBINED AS TWO-INONE SOLUTION

VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY R3T2FPHM3 standard rectifier and transient voltage suppressor (TVS) is a two-in-one device. The new space-saving hybrid solution is suitable for automotive applications and features an oxide planar chip junction design and a common cathode circuit configuration. Product combines a 3A, 600V

standard rectifier with a 200W TRANSZORB TVS in the compact FlatPAK 5 x 6-package. With a wide temperature range from -55°C to +175°C, device is suitable for high reliability automotive applications. https://www.vishay.com/en/ product/98398/

OSCILLOSCOPE ENHANCES AUTOMOTIVE TESTING CAPABILITIES

PICO TECHNOLOGY SENT SPC Protocol Decoder joins the PicoScope 7 toolset - automotive testing range of oscilloscopes. PicoScope SENT SPC decoder meets the growing demands of automotive engineers and technicians to debug and validate the operational performance of their automotive designs. The decoder builds on proven capabilities, such as its user-friendly and intuitive interface, allowing automotive professionals to quickly identify and resolve communication issues within electronic control systems. https://www.picotech.com/ downloads

LOW-POWER 1.8V, 2.5GBPS REPEATER SUPPORTS MIPI D-PHY 1.2 PROTOCOLS

DIODES INC. PI2MEQX2503 low-power, high-performance MIPI D-PHY 1.2 compliant

signal ReDriver regenerates signals transmitted at data rates up to 2.5Gbps from cameras to displays in various applications. Featuring a dual-data-lane equalizer and a

single clock lane, device compensates for pcb, connector, cable and switching-related losses. Device enables optimum electrical performance from a CSI2 source to a DSI sink. It operates at up to 2.5Gbps to comply with the MIPI D-PHY 1.2 specification for camera images with increasing numbers of pixels. https://www.diodes.com/part/ view/PI2MEQX2503

PRESS-FIT TERMINAL POWER MODULES AUTOMATE INSTALLATION PROCESS

Defined Radios (SDRs). The air-cooled, 1U unit boasts improved thermal management with front-to-rear airflow and meets transport grade ruggedization for military rackmount applications. Product provides a thicker and reinforced metal structure, with

IP67 weather-resistant and full MIL rugged design styles available, product series can be used in various types of airborne, shipboard, ground vehicle, or outdoor designs. https://pixustechnologies.com

HIGH-EFFICIENCY INTERCONNECTS SUIT RF MILAERO DESIGNS

PASTERNACK SMPS interconnects are designed for elite efficiency, and can handle the demands of high frequencies, with a reach extending up to 65GHz. Products deliver a compact push-on iteration, epitomize rapid assembly coupled with enhanced reliability. Device’s expansive

MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGY SP1F and SP3F highly configurable SP1F and SP3F press-fit terminal power modules automate the installation process, providing a solder-free solution when mounting to the pcb. Devices allow for automated or robotic installation, simplifying and speeding up the assembly process - reducing manufacturing costs. The high accuracy of the terminal locations enables high-reliability contact with the printed circuit card. Product portfolio includes more than 200 variants, with options to use mSiC technology or Si semiconductors and an array of topologies and ratings. Products come in voltage range of 600V-1700V and up to 280A. https://www.microchip.com

frequency range, from dc to 65GHz improves adaptability, while catering to a broad spectrum of needs. Connectors are built to blind-mate, enhancing ease and efficiency. Products uphold stringent military standards with a MIL-STD-202 certification. https://www.pasternack. com/t-smps-interconnects.aspx

RACKMOUNTABLE 1U TALL ENCLOSURE BOOSTS COOLING, RUGGEDIZATION

INDUCTOR BOOSTS PRECISION, PERFORMANCE RELIABILITY

PIXUS TECHNOLOGIES RX310 rackmountable 1U tall enclosure holds two of NI’s Ettus Research brand X310 Software

22 ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY / January/February 2024

DELEVAN 1210 surface mount inductor delivers a tighter tolerance which better serves emerging technolo-

gies, allowing for the development of more efficient and compact electronic systems. Device’s consistent performance also allows for tighter control over circuit behaviour, which makes it suitable for high-speed rail, transportation, signal and control systems, power distribution, and propulsion systems. As a standard catalog part, device can be used in many applications throughout commercial, industrial, and military markets. Custom variants are available. https://www.delevan.com/en/ products

UHD CONNECTIVITY SOLUTIONS ARE VERSATILE, MINIATURE

FISCHER CONNECTORS UHD high-speed connectors and cable assemblies for Ultra High Definition audio/video data transfer at 18 Gbit/s in demanding environments, match the performance speed of HDMI 2.0. UHD solutions are available in the flagship Fischer MiniMax and Fischer Core product lines with 10’000 mating cycles, 360° EMI protection, different sealing performances from IP68 to hermeticity and sterilization capacities, as well as three locking mechanisms (push-pull, screw, quick-release). Devices are available in ‘size 08’ (12.9 mm diameter plug) have a miniature, lightweight, compact, high-density layout with 19 contacts, ensuring high-quality data transmission for digital signals in demanding applications. https://fischerconnectors.com/ en/circular-connectors/minimax-series Visit ept.ca for the latest new products, news and industry events. EPT.CA

High Voltage Power Inductors

Coilcraft offers a wide range of voltage-rated power inductors that assure the safe, reliable operation of your designs. Coilcraft voltage-rated inductors support applications such as high-voltage DC-DC and AC-DC power supplies, industrial and home automation controls, appliances, and automotive, including electric vehicles (EVs). Our XEL and XGL Families of molded power inductors offer operating voltage ratings from 60 V to 120 V, and many of our

LPS and MSS Family inductors are suitable for 400-volt operation or higher. Our new MSS1514V Series offers an 800 V rating in a 15.5 x 15.5 mm footprint, with excellent current handling and low DCR. Learn more about operating voltage ratings for inductors and see our full line-up at www.coilcraft.com/HighVoltage. ®

WWW.COILCRAFT.COM

SUPPLY SIDE

FESTO UNVEILS WEBBASED ELECTRONICS TRAINING SYSTEM

Festo, a German-based manufacturer of components, systems and controls, has launched a web-based electronics training system designed to streamline electronics skills development in universities, vocational and technical schools. The innovative learning solution called Electeo is a turnkey education platform that recreates a modern electronics lab with digital tools. Compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems, Electeo supports electronics concepts in mechatronics, automation, and instrumentation & control, plus more. “Festo takes pride in keeping educators and students at the forefront of technology and career training,” said Dan Rodriguez, sales director for Festo Didactic North America. “Given the speed of advancement in the field of electronics, we knew it was time for an upgraded approach to electronics skills development.”

POWER

E-ONE MOLI ENERGY TO MAKE BATTERIES IN B.C.

Bringing advanced manufacturing and hundreds of jobs to British Columbia, E-One Moli Energy is building a lithium-ion battery cell manufacturing facility in the province.The $1 billion project will create up to 350 new jobs and secure more than 100 existing positions. Powered by British Columbia’s

TÜV SÜD Canada Inc. recently hosted an open house for its customers at its testing and certification laboratory in Newmarket, ON. Welcoming more than 80 customers, the firm provided technical

SENSORS

ABB TO BUILD HYPERSPECTRAL SENSORS FOR GHGSAT

TEST

TÜV SÜD CANADA HOSTS OPEN HOUSE

has been a provider of optical fiber technologies, delivering solutions for a wide range of applications globally. In industries ranging from semiconductor to spectroscopy, CeramOptec consults with its customers individually to find creative and optimal solutions for their fiber needs. CeramOptec manufactures fibers, fiber assemblies, such as cables and bundles, and other products, many of which are tailored to meet the specific requirements of customer applications. The Toronto location will strengthen CeramOptec’s presence in the marketplace, allow for closer collaboration with North American customers, and significantly reduce response time for product solutions, according to a company issued press release. The facility will serve current and future customers from this strategic hub with sales, service, and technical expertise, creating a one-stop shop for all fiber optics needs.

clean energy supply, the facility will become the largest factory in Canada for high performance lithium-ion battery cells, producing up to 135 million battery cells each year. The lithium-ion battery cells produced will be used to electrify devices used in consumer electronics, medical devices, high-performance vehicles and aerospace applications.

Québec City based ABB Canada plans to build four more hyperspectral cameras for GHGSat, to be delivered in 2024. This is the third contract ABB has secured with GHGSat, a leader in greenhouse gas emission detection from space. The four new hyperspectral sensors will be outfitted on GHGSat satellites C12, C13, C14 and C15 and are expected to launch sometime in 2024. ABB has a long history developing a variety of spectrometers and multi and hyperspectral sensors including for the Canadian Space Agency’s long running SCISAT.

FIBER OPTICS

CERAMOPTEC OPENS TORONTO LOCATION

CeramOptec, a pioneer in the field of optical fibers, has opened a new location for North America in Toronto. For more than 30 years, CeramOptec 24 ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY / January/February 2024

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Photo: Festo, EP&T, E-One Moli Energy, Ceram OPTEC; GHGSat

EDUCATION

presentations on EMC, safety and Laser services, along with a lunch to attendees. All of TÜV SÜD Canada’s 20 employees provided tours of its testing laboratory, along with lab demonstrations. TÜV SÜD is headquartered in Munich, Germany, while the Canadian division has been in business since 2011, providing testing, inspection and safety certification services of products in segments for the automotive industry, medical and health science products, military & defense, and systems and information technology. The Toronto-area multi-discipline testing facility is also a leader for Lithium-Ion battery testing and certification in North America.

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DEVELOPMENT BOARDS Starter board accelerates design process VENDOR: MIKROELEKTRONIKA MIKROE CLICKER 4 STARTER DEV BOARDS

CLICKER 4 the first in the series of MIKROE starter boards with the advanced CODEGRIP programmer/debugger on board. Clicker boards support development using MIKROE’s Click board add-on development boards. The product features more than 180 billion permutations possible. The company calculates that there are 188, 544, 549, 285 unique combinations that can be made from the 1460 boards available. Equipped with the STM32F4 MCU, Clicker 4 can accelerate prototyping, while it also can be implemented directly into a fully functional, custom design. Clicker 4 is equipped with an on-board debug unit – firm’s CODEGRIP programmed/ debugger, which is compliant with the on-board emulator standard, CMSIS-DAP. This allows designers to fully use, test, and debug the target device right out of the box.

• 32-bit Arm Cortex-M4 STM32F4 MCU operating at up to 168MHz • 1MB Flash memory • Floating point unit (FPU) • Full set of DSP instructions • A memory protection unit (MPU) • A JTAG/SWD header for interfacing with external electronics, USB Type-C connectors, six LEDs, six push buttons, and a reset button are also included. Clicker 4 is equipped with five different power supply inputs, providing the flexibility that development needs, and a reliable and safe battery charging circuit, which allows a single-cell Li-Po/Li-Ion battery to be charged. • Click boards follow mikroBUS a modular prototyping add-on board standard invented by MIKROE, enabling design engineers to change peripherals easily, cutting months off development time. Any Click board can be connected to the microcontroller or microprocessor on a main board. Many leading microcontroller companies including Microchip, NXP, Infineon, Dialog, STM, Analog Devices, Renesas and Toshiba now include the mikroBUS socket on their development boards.

26 ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY / January/February 2024

Photo: Mikroe Elektronika

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