ELECTRON 1

Electronic design studio — save over 30%

CS
WORLD
0 8>

9 770959 833066

INCORPORATING WIRELESS WORLD A REED BUSINESS PUBLICATION SOR DISTRIBUTION

AUGUST 2000 £2.65

Bluetooth Circuit ideas:

exposed Measure femtofarads
Turn-on spike eliminator
Versatile Water pump controller
curve tracer Leading zero blanker
Live line detector
Ahistory of
the grid
Variable gain
circuits
Three-phase
regulator
The common-
mode resistor
Controlling
with Java
 Te net
Quality second-user
test 8t measurement
equipment
Tel: 02476 650702 NEW PHONE CODE FOR COVENTRY 02476

Hewlett Packard
Radio Communications Test Sets
8642A —high performance R/F synthesiser Marconi 2955 £2000
(0.1-1050MHz ) £4750 Marconi 2958/2960 £2250
3335A —synthesiser (200Hz-81MHz) £2400 Antritsu MS555A2 £1200
Hewlett Packard Hewlett Packard 8922B (GSM) £6950
436A power meter and sensor (various) from £750 Schlumberger Stabilock 4031 £3995
437B power meter and sensor (various) from £1100 Schlumberger Stabilock 4040 £1500
Hewlett Packard
Racal 6111 (GSM) £1750
8753A network analyser 3GHz) from £2500
Racal 6115 (GSM) £3995
8753B network analyser 3GHz) from £3250
Rhode & Schwarz CMTA 94 (GSM) £5950
>ti* parameter test sets 85046A and 85047A
available at £2000 & £3000 IFR 1200S £2995
Wandel & Goltermann
SPECIAL OFFER
PCM-4 PCM Channel measurement set
(various options available) from £5500
Marconi 2305 —modulation meter £999
Marconi 6310 —programmable sweep generator
(2 to 20G Hz) —new £3250
Hewlett Packard
5342A —microwave frequency counter
(500MHz-18GH7) ops 1& 3 £700
5370B —universal time interval counter £1500
OSCILLOSCOPES

Fax 02476 650 773

Gould 4068 1SOMHz 4channel DSO £1500
Hewlett Packard 54201A •300MHz Digitizing £1250
Hewlett Packard 54600A -100MHz -2 channel £750
Hitachi V152N212N222N302BN302FN353F,1/550BN650F from £125
Hitachi VI 100A -100MHZ -4 channel Wandel & Goltermann TSA-1 system analyser (100Hz-180MHz) £275C
£900
Wiltron 6409 -10-2000MHz R f Analyser £175G
Intron 2020 -20MHz. Dual channel D.S.O. (new) £450
lwatstu SS 5710/SS 5702 - from £125
Kikusui COS 5100 -100MHz -Dual channel £350 MISCELLANEOUS
Lecroy 9450A -300MHz/400 MS/s D.S.O. 2 channel £2250 Eaton 2075-2A - Noise Gain Analyser at £2750
Meguro MSO 1270A -20MHz -D.S.O. (new) £450 Fluke 5100A/510013/5200A - Calibration Units (various available) from £1000
Philips PM3094 -200MHz •4 channel £1750 Fluke 2620 Data Buckets £500
Philips 3295A -400MHz -Dual channel £1600 Fluke 8842A •Digital Multimeter £600
Philips PM3392 - 200MHz-200Msis - 4 channel £1995 Hewlett Packard 339A Distortion measuring set ££
1625
000
Tektronix 465 -100MHZ -Dual channel £350 Hewlett Packard 435A .435B Power meters from £100
Tektronix 464/466 -100MHZ -(with AN. storage) £350 Hewlett Packard 778D Dual-Directional Couplers
Tektronix 475/475A -200MHz/250MHz - from £450 Hewlett Packard 3488A -Switch/Control unit £475
Tektronix 468 -100MHZ -D.S.O. £650 Hewlett Packard 3784A -Digital Transmission Analyser £4500
Tektronix 2213/2215 -60MHz -Dual channel £350 Hewlett Packard 3785A -Jitter Generator & Receiver £1250
Tektronix 2220 -60MHZ -Dual channel 0.5.0 £1250 Hewlett Packard 5343A -Frequency counter 26.5GHz
Tektronix 2235 -100MHZ -Dual channel £600 Hewlett Packard 5385A -1GHZ Frequency counter £70
£650
7500
Tektronix 2221 -60MHz -Dual channel D.S.0 £1250 Hewlett Packard 6033A -Autoranr g System PSU£1250
(20v-30a)
Tektronix 2245A -100MHZ -4 channel £900 Hewlett Packard 6622A - Dual 0/ system p.s.u.
Tektronix 2440 -300MHz/500 MS/s D.S.O. £2950 Hewlett Packard 6623A - Triple o/p system p.s.u. £1300
Tektronix 2445A -150MHz -4 channel £1250 Hewlett Packard 6624A - Quad Output Power Supply £2000
Tektronix 2445 -150MHZ 4 channel DMM £1200 Hewlett Packard 6632A -System Power Supply (20v-5A) £800
Tektronix TAS 475 -100MHZ -4channel £995 Hewlett Packard 6652A - 20V-25A System PSU £750
Tektronix 7000 Series (100MHZ to 500MHZ) from £200 Hewlett Packard 8112A -50MHz Pulse Generator £2250
Tektronix 7104 - 1GHz Real Time from £2500 Hewlett Packard 835013 - Sweep Generator Mainframe £2000
Tektronix 2465/2465A/2465B -300MHz/350MHz 4 channel from £1250 Hewlett Packard 8656A Synthesised signal generator £850
Tektronix 2430/2430A - Digital storage -150MHz from £1250 Hewlett Packard 86568 Synthesised signal generator £1450
Tektronix 2467B - 400MHz - 4 channel high writing speed £4750 Hewlett Packard 86600 -Synth'd Sig. Gen (10 KHz-2600MHz) £3250
Tektronix TOS 320 100MHz 2 channel £850 Hewlett Packard 890113 -Modulation Analyser £2750
Tektronix TOS 540 500MHz 4 channel £4500 Hewlett Packard 8903A, Band E -Distortion Analyser from £1250
Tektronix 544A 500MHz 4 channel £4950 Hewlett Packard 16500A n B - Logic Analyser Mainframes from £3
102 00
Hewlett Packard 16500C -Logic Analyser Mainframe50

SPECTRUM ANALYSERS Hewlett Packard 16501A/B & C -Logic Analyser System Expander Frame from £2000
Hewlett Packard 37900D -Signalling test set £3750
Ando AC 8211 -1.7GHz £1500 Hewlett Packard 75000 VXI Bus Controllers EPOA
Avcom PSA-65A -2 to 1000MHz £850 Hewlett Packard 4193A -Vector Impedence Meter £4750
Anntsu MS 2663A -9KHz -8.1GHz £7000 Hewlett Packard 53508 -20Hz Frequency Counter £1950
Anntsu MS 62B -50Hz to 1700MHz
£1450 Hewlett Packard 865713 -100KHz-2060 MHz Sig Gen £3995
Anntsu MS 6108 10KHz -2GHz - as nev, £3500 Hewlett Packard 86570 -XX DC1PSK Sig Gen £4500
Anntsu MS 710F -100KHz -23GHz
£5250 Hewlett Packard 8130A - 300 MHz High speed pulse generator £5250
Advantest/TAKEDA RIKEN -4132 -100KHz 1000MHz
£1500 Hewlett Packard 8116A - 50MHz Pulse, Function generator £2250
Hewlett Packard 3562A Dual channel dynamic signal analyser Hewlett Packard 1660A-136 channel Logic Analyser £3995
64pHz -100KHz
£5500 Keytek MZ-15/EC Minizap ESD Simulator (15kv •hand held) £1750
Hewlett Packard 8505A -1.3GHz -Network Analyser £1995 Marconi 106613 - Demultiplexer & Frame Alignment Monitor (140MBIT to 64KBIT)
Hewlett Packard 8756A/8757A Scaler Network Analyser from £1000 NEW £1750
Hewlett Packard 853A Mainframe . 8559A Spec. An. (0.01 to 21GHz) £2750 Marconi 2610 True RMS Voltmeter £550
Hewlett Packard 182T Mainframe 8559A Spec. An. (0.01 to 21GHz) £2250 Marconi 6950/6960,69608 Power Meters & Sensors from £400
Hewlett Packard 8568B -100Hz -1500MHz
£5250 Philips 5515 -TN -Colour TV pattern generator £1400
Hewlett Packard 8567A -100Hz -1500MHz
£3995 Philips PM 5193 - 50MHz Function generator £1500
Hewlett Packard 8754A - Network Analyser 4MHz-1300MHz £1500 Leader 3216 Signal generator 100KHz -140MHz -AM/FM/CW with built in FM stereo
Hewlett Packard 8591E 9KHz-1.8GHz
£4250 modulator (as new) a snip at £795
Hewlett Packard 8594E 9KHz-2.9GHz £6.750 Racal 1992 - 13GHz Frequency Counter £500
Hewlett Packard 3561A Dynamic signal analyser £3.995 Rohde & Schwarz SMY-01 Signal Generator (9KHz-1040MHz) £2250
Hewlett Packard 35660A Dynamic signal analyser
£3250 Rohde & Schwarz NRV dual channel power meter & NAV Z2 Sensor £1250
IFR A7550 -10KHz-1GHz -Portable
£1950 Systron Donner 6030 -26 5GHz Microwave Freq Counter £1995
Meguro -MSA 4901 -30MHz -Spec Analyser £700 Tektronix ASG100 -Audio Signal Generator £750
Meguro -MSA 4912 -1MHz -IGHZ Spec.Analyser £995 Wayne Kerr 3245 - Precision Inductance Analyser £1995
Tektronix 2712 9K1-1z-1.8GHz (with tracking generator and video morvtor mcde) £5500 Wiltron 6747A-20 -10MHz-20GHz -Swept Frequency Synthesiser £4950

All equipment is used -with 30 days guarantee and

90 days in some cases
Add carriage and VAT to all goods. Tel: 02476 650 702
Telnet, 8 Cavans Way, Binley Industrial Estate,
Coventry CV3 2SF. CIRCLE NO. WI ON REPLY CARD
Fax: 02476 650 773
CONTENTS

593 COMMENT 622 A HISTORY OF

Piracy and power
THE GRID
Patrick Mitchell looks at how the means
595 NEWS of controlling athermionic valve's
• UK teams feature in US display showcase emission have evolved and explains what
• Robot with the brain of afish the pros and cons of having multiple
• Researchers create on-chip micro-canals grids are.
• Academics told to be more commercial
e UK lags on fast Internet
• FEI welcomes mobile health risk report
629 NEW PRODUCTS
New product outlines, edited
• Lightweight PCB takes on FR4
by Richard ‘1ilson

600 A NEW WIRELESS 639 THREE-PHASE POWER

NETWORK REGULATOR
Cambridge-based Radiant Networks has A valve's grid determines asurprising
Tariq L1 sthree-phase linear power
created clever nodes that get round the number of its parameters. Patrick Mitchell
regulator can control resistive loads or
line of sight problem in the 20 to 40GHz looks at the grid's evolution, starting on
induction motors. Drive outputs are opto-
spectrum. Melanie Reynolds explains page 622.
isolated. Regulation from zero to full
how.
load is via asingle potentiometer so
interfacing to aPC should he easy too.
602 TRANSISTOR
CURVE TRACER 642 THE COMMON-MODE
Useful for selecting matched pairs,
RESISTOR
Ian Hickman's versatile transistor curve
Ian 1)ariics describes asimple method
of minimising interference on acable
connecting atransmitter and receiver.
The same technique is valid for reducing
EMI coming from the interconnection.

650 INTERFACING TINI

Having described TINI - alow-cost
Java-based controller with Web
capabilities -Les Hughes now explains
how to go about implementing it.

tracer tests bipolars, junction field-effect

transistors and metal-oxide-silicon field- 656 VARIABLE GAIN
effect device -both pand ntypes. CIRCUITS
Cyril Bateman looks at the trade-offs
608 BLUETOOTH involved with the various ways of
producing variable-gain circuits and
WHITEWASH reports on what's available on the
It's awireless world, and aBluetooth one
Internet to help designers make their
if you believe all you're told. Not
choice.
necessarily; other technologies may be
more appropriate. Andrew Emmerson
compares the contenders.
662 WEB DIRECTIONS Making awireless network operating
Useful web addresses for the electronics
between 20 and 40GHz poses problems
designer. as each transmitter needs aline-of-sight
612 BEGINNERS' CORNER link with the receivers. Melanie Reynolds
Ian Hickman presents afurther simple
looks at anew solution -page 600.
circuit for undergraduates -or anyone 665 LETTERS
Wien analysis, Recover acrashed hard
to build, trouble shoot and test. This
drive, Bluetooth health scare, Amplifier
month it's atransistor gain checker.
input filtering, A new distortion
mechanism?
616 CIRCUIT IDEAS
• Protect against turn-on transients
• Measure femtofarads on AC bridges Unique reader offer - save
• Live line detector 32% on Electronic Design
• Sounder uses telephone earpiece
• 74C926 leading-zero blanking Studio with PolyBlend
• Water pump control Module. Turn to page 614.
• Ceramic sounder oscillator

11111111111111111111111116....» September issue on sale 3 August

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD

 electronic
design STUDIO ctronuc
TUDIO

The new fully integrated electronics CAD

system with schematic, simulation, PCB.
New Version 1.2
autorouting and CADCAM modules as standard.

• Brings the power of desk top publishing to EDA.

• Publication quality feature rich schematic production.
• New generation dynamic netlist navigator with project management.
• Superb quality CADCAM output, including R-274X and Excellon.
• Wizards automate key features.
• Compatible with TINA Pro 5.5.
• No pin limits!

Electron. °emir Stud. from £199

Prce exch.. VAT end P&P Arnere appleable.
30 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE
Copynghl 0 2000 Pnces &spec...Ions subiecl to Chrolge vothOut note.

e Quickroute Systems Ltd,

Regent House Heaton Lane
1 Stockport SK4 1BS UK
Tel 0161 476 0202 ca. 0161 476 osos
OUICKPOUTE Erred nfogLacksys de ,, or .•
SYSTEMS WEB wwviguekroute.co uk

Tailor made to suit you

CIRCLE NO.! 04 ON REPLY CARO

The science lab in a PC

Experiments Ideas for DrDAQ

• FIKsenng Leo. :yoo

• Down Cnon.rs Ostt Output
. Sound were:tons Via

»IV, 2.1”... SI 58.11•.»

• fw•ct
Sound Docoy
Sound ...eon
- asot
Voltage
Sound «oveforrns of rn

os<oy Moons sq
Le« Insulolbeteorton Resistance
£04 Sue Tells« t.be
Oed Run roo•MOt
E
Enaorneme
%balms
%KIM, Light level
Dry old Poole tong
Foonentoon «Grose
FF. Power end
Cuomo. clurgoldlods
'

lobo rod numb eyed

Oulpul oft odor col VS Temperature
Hog Inouleion Noe In
Globol Shooing rue.

2 IL)

Only £59!
+VAT pH Microphone
External sensors

✓ Very low cost

The DrDAQ is alow cost data logger from Pico Technology.
✓ Built in sensors for light, sound (level and
It is supplied ready to use with all cables, software and
waveforms) and temperature
example science experiments.
✓ Use DrDAQ to capture fast signals (eg
DrDAQ represents a breakthrough in data logging. sound waveforms)
Simply plug DrDAQ into any Windows PC, run the supplied ✓ Outputs for control experiments
software and you are ready to collect and display data. ✓ Supplied with both PicoScope
DrDAQ draws its power from the parallel port, so no batteries (oscilloscope) and PicoLog (data logging)
or power supplies are required. software
Tel: 01480 396395, Fax: 01480 396296, E:mall: [email protected], Web: www.drdaq.com
CIRCLE NO.105 ON REPLY CARO

ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 Piracy and power
A
feeling of relief all round should have greeted Unfortunately, there are several factors working
Judge Jackson's long-awaited decision on against Linux. Certain professionals in the computer
Microsoft, that at last this long-winded business world, who see their intellectual or financial
was coming to an end. But no —the Microsoft investment in Windows being eroded as Linux rises,
management have vowed to fight on, not conceding have been sniping away with adisinformation
anything. So this saga will continue, to the disgust of campaign. Most of what they say is plain old
EDITOR the many Windows users who must now realise they propaganda, with afew half-truths thrown in for good
Martin Eccles have been taken for ride. measure. Fortunately, it is possible to spot these people
020 8652 3614 One of the depressing facets of this case has been the with avested interest amile off if you have been made
refusal of the Microsoft bosses even to acknowledge aware of this disinformation.
CONSULTANTS that they have done anything wrong, despite all the The very fact that Linux is free poses aproblem to
Ian Hickman evidence to the contrary. They are clearly out of touch some people, due to the quirk of human nature which
Philip Darrington with reality. But if you are that big, and powerful, with equates being free with being without much worth.
vast quantities of money to hire the best lawyers, it is They say to themselves, "how can afree operating
Frank Ogden
easy to fall into the trap of thinking that might is right, system put together by amateurs working part-time
and believe that by spending enough money, it is possibly challenge amulti-billion dollar OS like
EDITORIAL ADMINISTRATION
possible stand the law on its head and prove that wrong Windows?"
Jackie Lowe
is right. The reality is that some of the developers of Linux —
020 8652 3614 And mighty they are. Which is why, even with all the far from being amateurs —are some of the most skilled
bad publicity that they have recently accrued, exponents of their art on the planet. Thankfully
EDITORIAL E-
MAILS Microsoft's management have picked this moment to Microsoft has no monopoly here. They provide the
[email protected] launch acrusade against software piracy. You may benefit of their intellectual effort on behalf of Linux for
have seen their campaign. They are comparing anyone who cares to make use of it, and encourage
GROUP SALES EXECUTIVE software piracy to knowingly owning afake copy of others to do the same. Eventually everyone gains, and
Pat Bunce the Mona Lisa —an approach that would be laughable not just afew ultra-fat-cats, as in Microsoft's case.
020 8652 8339 if it were not true. Readers of EW should have no trouble with this
This is atruly bizarre situation. A company shown to concept, because Contributors to the magazine, in the
have acted illegally, and that is about to be punished various features, and particularly in 'Circuit ideas',
ADVERTISEMENT E-
MAILS
for it, has chosen this moment to lecture the rest of us provide novel ideas and leading-edge designs for
[email protected]
about infringements of copyright. And the time they anyone to use, despite the fact that they may have some
have picked to do this is when the free alternative, commercial value. Contributors can likewise, if they
ADVERTISING PRODUCTION
Linux, has taken off in abig way. What more evidence wish, make reciprocal use of others' ideas through the
020 8652 8339
is needed that overwhelming power has affected their same channels. The buzz word sometimes used in the
ability to size asituation up correctly? Linux community for this practice of openly offering
PUBLISHER
However, Microsoft has shot itself in the foot, and intellectual property is 'copyleft' —the opposite of
Mick Elliott something good could come out of this. For most users copyright.
who just want to use their computer for basic tasks like If not all of your software is pirated, and you have
EDITORIAL FAX browsing the net, using aword processor, adatabase legitimate Windows applications which you don't want
020 8652 8111 and spreadsheet, and who don't want to be tainted by to see abandoned by converting to Linux as your sole
piracy, the complete answer is to drop Windows operating system, there are great possibilities in the
CLASSIFIED FAX altogether and use Linux and StarOffice. 'Wine' program for Linux. This enables Windows
Both of these software packages are free and readily applications to run on Linux without emulation, almost
020 8652 8938
available. Why pay £200 for Office 2000 when the like anative application.
NEWSTRADE ENQUIRIES
excellent Staroffice is free? At present, Wine is usable but still under
StarOffice can be downloaded from the Web, but it is development, and shows considerable promise.
020 7907 7777
rather large. A better method is to ring Sun, and you Naturally, Wine is free and both source code and
will receive afree CD with the program StarOffice not binary files are provided.
ISSN 0959-8332
just for Linux, but for Windows and OS/2 as well, If you use illicit software, you may think you are safe
ensuring adegree of compatibility unobtainable with from detection by virtue of being asmall fry in the
For a full listing of Microsoft's offerings. world of pirates. But judging from the tone of
RBI magazines:
And having entered the world of Linux you will Microsoft's latest ploy you may be less safe than you
http//www.reedbusiness.com
discover that avast amount of alternative software is think —particularly if you use the Internet and have
available, some of it free, some of it modestly priced. unauthorised copies of software on your hard disk
Since the main driving force behind piracy has been drive. Much better by far to side-step the issue
edk REED the high cost of Windows products, this mischievous altogether and adopt Linux.
tZe BUSINESS activity should become athing of the past under Linux. Simon Wright
me. INFORMATION

Electronics World ,s published monthly By post, current issue £2 65, Overseas advertising agents France and Belgium: Pierre Mussard,
SUBSCRIPTION HOTLINE
back issues (if available £3 00) Orders, payments and general 18.20 Place de la Madeleine, Paris 75008 United States of America'
Tel (0) 1444 475662 correspondence to L333, Electronics World, Quadrant House, Ray Barnes, Reed Business Publishing Ltd, 475 Park Avenue South, 2nd Fl
The Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey SME SAS. Tlx: 892984 REED BP G New York, NY 10016 Tel, (212) 679 8888 Fax, (212) 679 9455
Fax (0) 1444 445447 Cheques should be made payable to Reed Business Information Ltd USA mailing ogents Mercury Airfreght International Ltd Inc, 10(b)
Newstradie Distributed by Morketforee (UK) Ltd, 247 Tottenham Court Englehord Ave, Avenel NJ 07001 Periodicles Postage Paid at Rahway
Road London W1P OAU 0171 261.5108. NJ Postmaster Send address changes to above
SUBSCRIPTION QUERIES Subscriptions: Quadrant Subscription Services, Oakfield House Printed by Polestar (Colchester) Ltd, Filmsetting by .0 Typographies
Perrymount Rood, Haywards Heath, Sussex RHI6 3DH. Telephone Ltd, Unit 4 Baron Court, Chandlers Way, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS2
[email protected] 01444 445566. Please notify change of address. SSE
Tel (0) 1444 445566 Subscription rates 1year UK £36.00 2years £58.00 3years £72.00
Europe/Eu 1year £51.00 2years £82.00 3years £103.00 © Reed Business information Ltd 1997 ISSN 0959 8332
Fax (0) 1444 445447 ROW Iyear £61.00 2years £98.00 3years £123

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 593

 Professional PCB Layout for windows
From

£97

Computer Store Prices!!

_JP1 1 01 01 -c f,
PCB Design: Stumpt.pcb
%-e " or
Easy-PC For Windows
Version 3.0 of this outstanding product is the •• .
C5_ill
ET A 1 1 -
-11 111111 1
11efr%1 1 () is
latest evolution of one of the most popular
97 11
affordable CAD systems available. With Li `
ea it,

powerful new features and a true Windows

graphical user interface, it is also one of the
easiest to learn and use.
With full manufacturing outputs using Gerber,
Ip.ieses•
Windows printers, N.C. Drill and pen plotters it
711
is one of the most complete systems for the
•—aut
AI
:
casual to the professional user.
Run multisheet Schematics, PCB layouts and g Hum id! !
,3*•1g11H111:1
- 'Mad
library manager all at the same time in the
same interface. Switching between each is
-• 1111111111M1Y7141 . .

Number One Systems

simply case of selecting the window with the
mouse without running a new program.
Now with our new autorouter option. Call 01684 773662 or Fax 01684 773664
Runs under Windows 95/98/NT TrA & Win2000
Email [email protected]

For a free demo disk, visit our web site www.numberone.com

Number One Systems. Oak Lane.Bredon, Tewkesbury, Glos. GL20 7LR. UK

CIRCIE NO.106 ON REPLY CARD

Packed with new features: • Uses the latest xspice engine for •
guaranteed accurate mixed mode simulation • Parameterised ac sweep • Monte /
corlo analyses • Parameterised transient sweep • New xspice simulations • N,ew
noise and distortion analyses • Improved features for processing plot families as•units
• New menu items to show local maxima, minima, and zero crossings and much more!

Meowed Lome Dove«

»deem..
*In
Omen«.
*Mom
Gamedeve•
eadm.

fame

blamelime Rod*.
Wear Tee
urn
Idelmea
rem.*
Pe»

Samees
'Ur Mammal,
Ummala•

results that can

RD Research, Research House, Norwich Rood, Eastgate, Norwich NR 10 4HA

Research
Tel: 01603 872331 Email: rd.researchOpagen.ce.uk www looking.co.uk/sp
*Please add £5.00 postage and packing. 'applies to users of B Spice & B. logic
All trademarks acknowledged

CIRCLE NO.107 ON REPLY CARD

 Up DATE
UK teams feature in US technology display showcase
Display technology specialists from paper using ZBD are proposed.
Boinnnng...
the UK made asignificant Another reflective technology is
DERA in Malvern
contribution at the world's largest being shown by IBM. "It is as close as
is presenting a
display technologies show, the we can get to print on paper," said
paper on its
Society for Information Display independent consultant Tony Lowe
zenithal bistable
(SID) conference in California who worked on the display at IBM, "It
device -ZBD-
recently. reflects 60 per cent of light and has a
pronounced
DERA in Malvern presented a 12:1 contrast ratio."
zebedee -an
paper on its zenithal bistable device - By suspending a 'gm polyester
LCD which keeps
or ZBD, pronounced zebedee. This is sheet through the middle of its
its image after
an LCD that keeps its image after display, IBM has shared asingle-
power is
power is removed. pixel electric field between two
removed.
Even with no power applied, the stacked cells. too large to work well.
image is robust, making it suitable for Each cell contains aguest-host "We can make regularly shaped
smart cards and shelf-edges in system. These are orientated at 90° particles as small as 0.1pm," said
supermarkets. "If you press it, the from each other. In this way the cells Professor Jack Silver from the
image remains. ZBD is the only are either transparent, or cross Greenwich team.
example of abistable LCD which polarised -and therefore opaque. These experimental particles still
does this. All the rest can have the The company showed a320dpi work well as phosphors, having 60
'bistable' image erased by pressing 100mm diagonal TFT demonstrator. per cent of the light output of more
the display," said DERA's Dr Emma Phosphor experts from the typical phosphor particles.
Wood. University of Greenwich presented The University of Cambridge has
Modelled on amobile phone their work on ultra-fine phosphor been working on displays that give
display, DERA's demonstrator is 2 particles for the next generation of true 3-D images without the use of
by 2cm with 90 by 83 pixels. field emission displays. special eye-wear for many years now
Latching voltages can be as low as Pixels are shrinking as display -so called autostereoscopic displays.
10V and contrast ratio is 40:1 per pixel resolutions climb and pixels as Using aspinning polygon inside a
or 15:1 including inter-pixel gaps. narrow as 0.3pm can be found. At 2- mirrored cavity it can now produce a
Displays for e-books and electronic 5pm, common phosphor particles are 3D image with aviewing angle of 90°.

Robot with the brain of a fish

A real android, living brain and enormous capacity for integrating
mechanical body, is taking shape in a information -even on their own."
joint US-Italian project. According to Alford, the robot
Not quite Robocop, its body is a changes behaviour as the cells, normally
commercial Swiss-made Khepera responsible for swimming, learn. "They
robot and its brain is ahandful of cells have to adapt [in life], they have aself-
taken from the brain stem of asea teaching mechanism," he said.
lamprey -an eel-like fish. The robot has light sensors on
According to project scientist board. Signals from these are fed to
Simon Alford of the University of the remotely-mounted cells through an
Illinois in Chicago, using even afew Italian-programmed signal-
cells for control gives the robot a conditioning computer. The cells
higher level of sophistication than you produce signals that then control the
might expect. "A neuron is no logic robot motors through the computer.
gate," he said, "There is alot more to a The work is to be presented at Murphy Inr... having cells from afish brain, this robot's
neuron than that. They have an Artificial Life 7in Oregon in August. behaviour changes as the cells learn.

Turbo-coding for given satellite by 50%." efficiency of the channel by around 2dB, said

set-top box chips Alternatively, set-top boxes could receive ST, which results in 50% more data being
Web pages over satellite, or the antenna could sent.
STM icroelectronics is to use Turbo-coding, be reduced in size by 30%, Geyres said. Turbo-codes approach the theoretical limit
the error correction scheme for third genera- France Telecom received patents relating to for error-correction limits set by Shannon and
tion mobile phones, in its set-top box chips. Turbo-coding in 1991. It developed its first Hartley in 1948. With this form of coding, bit
This allows 50% more channels in the same chip in 1995 and worked with ST to produce error rates reach 10-12 when transmitting 3bits
bandwidth, the firm claims. more advanced devices in 1998. per symbol.
"ST has entered into an agreement with ST now plans to deploy Turbo-coding in UMTS -the third generation mobile
France Telecom to exploit the technology," high end set-top boxes starting early next standard -is based on the same Turbo-codes.
said Philippe Geyres, vice president of ST's year. It has already demonstrated the technol- ST believes that any chip manufacturer
consumer and microcontroller group. "We ogy to broadcasters and set-top box makers. supplying silicon for mobile phones will have
can increase the number of channels in a Using Turbo-codes increases the spectral to take alicence from France Telecom.

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 595

UPDATE

Researchers create on-chip micro-canals

Researchers at the US's Sandia semiconductors on asingle chip or ridges on the wafer's surface that
National Laboratories have created a among nearby chips. eventually becomes the canals'
technique that creates raised, micro- Better detectors for airborne toxins, interiors.
scopic canals on chips, through which rapid DNA analysers for crime-scene Next they heat the wafer to a
liquids or gases can flow from one investigators, and new pharmaceuti- relatively low 100°C for about 20
chip feature to another. cal testers for drug development are seconds, which causes the square-
Such canals are useful for emerging among the possible future uses for edged ridges to slump into ahemi-
'microfluidic' devices that make use of inexpensive microfluidic devices. spherical shape. A 2pm-thick film of
the chemical properties of liquids or The researchers have created silicon oxynitride is deposited over
gases and the electrical properties of raised, hemispherical canals on the rounded photoresist, and the
silicon, glass, and quartz surfaces that entire wafer is soaked in an acetone
are 8to 100pm in diameter. They've bath until the remaining photoresist
also made canals with tight turns, is dissolved, leaving hollow tunnels
creating hairpin curvatures with radii on the wafer's surface.
as small as 8pm. The technique is 10 to 100 times
The traditional method for creating faster than trench-and-seal tech-
canals on chips, according to Sandia, niques, says co-developer Carol
is called 'trench and seal' and Ashby, and the resulting tunnels are
involves bonding two pre-trenched virtually indestructible.
wafers at up to 1000°C —potentially Future micro-fluidic channels might
damaging for other chip features. be embedded with electronic controls,
To make the Sandia canals, the micromachines, or novel materials to
researchers pattern athin layer of create an electrokinetic pump or tiny
photoresist on the wafer's surface valves or filters. They could deliver
using aconventional photo mask and cooling fluids to hot spots on today's
light, then develop away areas of the tightly packed microchips. Or they
photoresist exposed to the light, might help create on-chip insulators
leaving anetwork of photoresist that reduce electrical cross-talk.

Academics told to be more commercial

The academic science base needs to exploiting the results of research lies
be more aware of the commercial solely outside the science base".
application and money-making Elsewhere in its response to the
opportunities of the research taking committee's report, the government
place in universities, according to admitted that UK spending on R&D
the government. was not good enough. According to
The government's statement came the committee, R&D as apercentage
in response to areport by the House of gross domestic product has seen a
of Commons Science and Technology greater drop since 1993 than any
Committee on engineering and other G7 country. The government
science-based innovation. "The claims to already be tackling the
government agrees with the decline in R&D with an increase in
committee's conclusion that there is science and engineering spending.
plenty of good research being There was .also arejection by the
produced in the UK, but our government of the committee's
weakness lies in applying and suggestion to expand the R&D tax
exploiting that research," said the credit scheme to include large
government. companies. "To provide all firms with
While the committee blamed avolume tax credit based on afirm's
industry for not taking up innovative total R&D expenditure would be very
ideas that come from universities, expensive, involve considerable dead
the government said it "does not weight and would not offer good value
agree that the responsibility for for money," the government added.

The future's video... This is the Orange

UK's Internet shame for First Telecom.
Those countries that are already allowing
Videophone, or at least the phone that
Cambridge Consultants have designed
The UK could be the last country in Europe free competition on broadband access are
for Orange. "This may not be the final
to have high-speed access to the Internet via Germany, Finland, Austria, Denmark and the
form that Orange uses," said aCCL
technology, according to one US telecoms Netherlands. The EU has recommended that spokesman. It is said by CCL to
operator. all European countries should allow open
combine the function of videophone,
"It is paradoxical and depressing that competition on the local loop by the end of PDA and Web browser. Orange will
Britain, after being the first European the year. But Britain is not allowing it until not say when it is planning to
country to de-regulate on voice, will be one July 2001.
introduce it commercially, except to
of the last to de-regulate on broadband," The US allowed open competition in 1996, say, "Some time in the summer, when
Rupert Baines, European product manager and Germany has had it for six months. we add high speed data capability to
our network."

ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 •

TiePieScope HS801 PORTABLE MOST

4111Nom
ABRITARY WAVEFORM GENERATOR-
STORAGE OSCILLOSCOPE-
SPECTRUM ANALYZER-
MULTIMETER-
TRANSIENT RECORDER-

•The sophisticated cursor read outs have

21 possible read outs. Besides the usual
read outs, like voltage and time, also
quantities like rise time and frequency
are displayed.

Measured signals and instrument

settings can be saved on disk.This
enables the creation of a library of
The HS801 the first 100 Mega samples measured signals. Text balloons can be
per second measuring instrument that added to asignal. for special comments.
consists of aMOST (Multimeter. The (colour) print outs can be supplied
Oscilloscope, Spectrum analyzer and with three common text lines (e.g.
Transient recorder) and an AVVG (abritary company info) en three lines with
waveform generator). This new MOST measurement specific information.
portable and compact measuring
instrument can solve almost every
measurement problem. With the •The HS801 has an 8bit resolution and a
integrated AVVG you can generate every maximum sampling speed of 100 MHz.
signal you want. The input range is 0.1 volt full scale to 80
volt full scale. The record length is
32K/64K samples. The AVVG has a 10 bit
The versatile software has a user-defined resolution and asample speed of 25
toolbar with which over 50 instrument MHz.The HS801 is connected to the
settings quick and easy can be parallel printer port of acomputer.
accessed. An intelligent auto setup
allows the inexperienced user to perform
measurements immediately. Through the The minimum system requirement is a
use of asetting file, the user has the PC with a486 processor and 8 Mbyte
possibility to save an instrument setup RAM available. The software runs in
and recall it at a later moment. The setup Windows 3.xx /95 /98 or VVindows NT
time of the instrument is hereby reduced and DOS 3.3 or higher.
to a minimum.
TiePie engineering (UK). 28 Stephenson
Road, Industrial Estate, St. Ives,
When aquick indication of the input Cambridgeshire, PE17 4VVJ, UK
signal is required, a simple click on the Tel: 01480-460028; Fax: 01480-460340
auto setup button will immediately give a
good overview of the signal. The auto TiePie engineering (NL),
setup function ensures a proper setup of Koperslagersstraat 37, 8601 VVL SNEEK
the time base, the trigger levels and the The Netherlands
input sensitivities. Tel: +31 515 415 416; Fax +31 515 418 819

Web: http://www.tiepie.n1

CIRCLE NO. 708 ON REPLY CARD

UPDATE

FEI welcomes mobile health risk report

The mobile phone industry is results of the government We believe the report is
putting on abrave face and sponsored report into mobile phone comprehensive and balanced and
welcoming the rather inconclusive health issues. we welcome it," said aspokesman
for the Federation of the Electronics
Industry (FEI) which represents the
The report in summary...
industry on health issues.
• No evidence to date that emissions from mobile phones and base stations
Network operator Orange
put health at risk.
acknowledged there was public
• Some scientific evidence shows RF exposure may cause subtle effects on
concern on the issue but said it
biological functions although it is not known if this is detrimental.
was encouraged by the report's
• A precautionary approach to the use of mobile phones should be adopted
conclusion that "the balance of
until more information is available.
evidence does not suggest mobile
• The widespread use of mobiles by children for non-essential calls should be
phone technologies put the health
discouraged.
of the general population of the
• Use of a mobile while driving should be discouraged.
UK at risk."
• International standards for maximum exposure levels should be adopted.
Despite this conclusion the
These are five times lower than current UK levels.
Independent Expert Group on
• The specific energy absorption rate of a phone should be made available.
Mobile Phones and Health,
• Base stations should be subject to planning permission.
originator of the report, has chosen
• Shielding devices and hands-free kits should be independently tested.
to adopt aprecautionary approach
• A leaflet should be circulated to every UK household giving information on
to the use of mobile phones.
mobile phone technology and related health aspects.
The Group has been working on
• A new research programme should be established.
the report since September last
year.

Lightweight circuit board material takes on FR4

Electromechanical component particular applications in high The reduced weight circuit boards
supplier Radiatron is adding PCBs to reliability areas. It has alow coeffi- will find applications in aerospace. In
its portfolio, with the addition of a cient of thermal expansion — satellites for example, every kilo-
lightweight board that the firm 8-l2ppm per °C —and produces a gram saved in the construction is
claims will compete with traditional 'cleaner' hole when drilled using a worth $50000 in money terms. With
FR4 material. laser. The dimensional stability —of each satellite carrying around 12kg
The material, which is made by 0.02 per cent —helps improve of boards, this saving is significant.
Dupont, is called Thermount, and registration. But there is aprice "The military specification market
boards are produced to military and premium to be paid of between ten in the US is worth some $140m, and
commercial specifications by the and 20 per cent compared with FR-4 given our product portfolio and
Danish PCB manufacturer, Printca. laminate. printed-circuit board pricing policy,
A spokesman for Printca said that Commenting on the deal with the we aim to tap into that market," said
over 60 million pieces have been Danish board maker, Ian Groves, Groves.
shipped for four Japanese companies divisional manager for interconnect Radiatron's board service includes
already for use in mobile telephones. and systems at Radiatron, said: "We multi-layer boards up to 26 layers,
Thermount-based laminate weighs are now able to offer our customers blind and buried vias, flexible, rigid-
25 per cent less than FR-4 and is an extremely competitive PCB flex as well as single and double-
highly stable. It is wen as having service, including lead-free boards." sided boards. •

Free CD for Bluetooth

developers
.lacécot or
OASGS0,40A7A1CO200
11:11:110EBOIOMBICEM
11133:11(31:1
0.443322110 10066329 90 PO b 43101 0.909192 tp-xo 9≥2852 Opt .1 OAS-042

Nohau has introduced adevelopment CD aimed at support-

00001 002 OCAS)
ing Bluetooth developers. The Merlin Bluetooth Starter CD
6•Clœt

is free and contains atrace viewer from CATC that enables MMIM 00001 002 0003

users to display, analyse and print Bluetooth protocol traffic 0.6 0,9645133C3731 CO200 0,6 CEICZCZEMMIIIIM=7
files. Also included are copies of the wireless standard's
.‘._•.= 110

core specification and white papers on the architecture, 3000 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 11101100 m 88 CC DD EC FF AA 88 CC

3008, 08 09
security and protocols. Nohau is also selling aprotocol
analyser dedicated to Bluetooth. Expected in products this I" C66 r 093411936C47^1 CO2013 00001 002 0002

year, Bluetooth is the new standard for wireless linking of P9c kel 44011.0
4 CAS °AMASS ... A.47 AI CO200
13:13021110BISEMCIEES
products such as laptop PCs, mobile phones and other
handheld equipment. Using alow power 2.4GHz radio link,
n
0000l oo2 0003

Bluetooth can connect devices at data rates approaching 6 OAS 04114111114/ACA 7A1CO200 imazzcza:mmocomi
Ades

IMbitis with arange of 10m.

ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 a

SMALL SELECTION ONLY LISTED •EXPORT TRADE ANO QUANTITY DISCOUNTS -RING US FOR YOUR REQUIREMENTS WHICH MAY BE IN STOCK
TEK491 10MC/S-12.4GHZ 12.4-40GHZ -000.
HP New Colour Spectrum Analysers LAST FEW ONLY HP815138 ATT OPT 002.011 1300-1550 £300.
HP141T+ 8552B IF .8553B RF •1KHZ -1I0Mc.s •E500. TEK492 50KHZ-21GHZ OPT 2-f2
HP81519A OX DC-400MC S550-950 £250.
HP141 T. 8552B IF •8554B RF •100KHz -1250M -£600. TEK492P 50KHZ•21GHZ OPT 1-2-
STC OFR10 Reflectometer -£250.
TEK492AP 50KHZ-21GHZ O 1-2-
HP141T• 8552B IF •8556A RF •20Hz-300KHz -£400. STC OFSK15 Machine Jointing neye magnifier -E250.
HP141T• 85526 IF •8555A 10 MCIS-18GHtS -£1000. TEK492BP 50KHZ-21GHZ
TEK495 100KHZ-1,8
HP8443A Tracking Gen Counter 100KHz-110Mc.is -£200 COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT
HP 8557A 0.0 C/S- 180T or 180C -£150 -
HP844513 Tracking Preselector DC to 18GHz •£250. Anritsu ME453L OX Microwave ANZ -£350.
HP8444A Tracking Generator •5-1300Mcs £450. 182T -
Anritsu ME453L TX Microwave ANZ -£350. -MF180T or 180C -£150 -
HP8444A OPT 059 Tracking Gen •5-1500Mc s-£650. HP 85588
Anritsu MH370A Jitter Mod Oscillator -£350.
HP35601A Spectrum Ant Interface •£300. 1 000
HP4953A Protocol Ant -£400.
Anritsu MG642A Pulse Pan Gen. £350.
System MS02A limer & Digital Printer -£00.
A 0.0 -C1,000 -MF1807 or lee -
C150 -1827
HP8970A Noise Figure Meter .3466 Noise Head -C3k. Complete MS65A Error Detector.
HP8755A•B+C Scalar Network Ant PI -£250 +MF 180C •Heads M FM Modulation ANZ Meter -£800.
Anritsu ML6I2A Sel Level Meter -£400. M FM Modulation ANZ Meter -E1,750.
11664 Extra -£150 each. Anritsu ML244A Sel Level Meter -£300.
A Audio Analyzer -£1,000.
HP37098 Constellation ANZ £1,000. W&G PCM3 Auto Measuring Set -£300.
89038 Audio Analyzer -£1,500.
HP11715A AM-FM Test Source -£350. W&G SPM14 Sel Level Meter -£300.
FARNELL TVS70MKII PU 0-70V 10 amps E150. MARCONI 2370 SPECTRUM ANALYZERS -HIGH QUALITY -
W&G SPM15 Sel Level Meter -£350.
MARCONI 6500 Network Scaler Ant -£500. Heads available to DIGITAL STORAGE -30HZ-110MC/S Large qty to clear as
W&G PS19 Level Gen -£500. eived from Gov -all sold as from pile complete or add
40GHz many types in stock. W&G DA2O+DA1 Data ANZ [400
for basic testing and ant -callers preferred - pick
Mixers are available forANZs to 60GHz. W&G PMG3 Transmissio own from over si discount on qtys of five.
HP6131C Digital Voltage Source .-100V Amp. W&G PSS16 Generator YMOOEL r or al alloy cooling fins -£200.
HP5316A Universal Counter A.B. W&G PSI4 Level TE Ica ycooling fins -El»
Marconi TF2374 Zero Loss Probe £200. W&G EPM-1 11 a dew only) -£500.
Racal/Dana 2101 Microwave Counter •10Hz.20GHz •with book W&G DL £350
as new £2k. W&G DLM4 Se -£400.
Racal/Dana 1250-1261 Universal Switch Controller •200Mc/s PI W&G PS Gen. -£250.
Cards and other types. /S •2probes -£250-£300.
Racal/Dana 9303 True OMS Levelmeter •Head -£450. ITEM /5 storage •2probes -£200.
TEKA6902A also A69028 Isolator •£300-£400. Data Acqui on nit .%1A 16th i A 200MC/S-250MC/S •2probes -£300-£350.
TEK CT-5 High Current Transformer Probe -E250. TE 13-2213A.2215-2215A-2224-2225-2235-2236-2245-60-
HP Frequency comb generator type 8406 -£400. 1LCR mete 100MC S -E250-£400.
HP Sweep Oscillators type 8690 A+B •plug-in HP 4274 R rne TEK 2445 4ch 150MC/S +2probes -E450.
18GHz also 18-40GHt. HP 4951 M. ol A TEK 2445A 4ch 150MC/S •2probes -£600.
HP Network Analyser type 84074 +8 ontro 24458 4ch 150MC/S +2probes -E750.
110Mc s-£500 -E1000. Controllers. IC 468 D.S.O. 100MC/S +2probes -£500.
HP 8410-A•8-C Network 18 GHz S/PCS 1805- TEK 486 350MCS •2probe 50.
-plus most other units a t-up -8411a- -C2 000. TEK 2486 4ch-300MC/S -
8412-8413-8414-841 F Elk. 831-1 in TEK 2405A 4ch-350M
Racal/Dana 9301 8754A N 4-1 C/S 502A +cabl TEK 2465ACT 4c
suKk £250-£ MC/S +8 Cables 'MK D S0 2 -£1,000.
Racal/D M a r pe 9009-9008 TEK D. 1 probes -E1,250.
E 83540A PI 4GH +83545.6 RI TEK •1 4..ra y2probes -C1,750.
-• 4.11 F27 oo
type £150. 2probes -
la 'Se ' 6' 6600A 1sweep osc., mainfra AMPLIFIE 2GHZ-9008 -£400. MC/S-20MC/S.4 ch .2probes -£90011.1K
66 Ø '6 Hz or 6651 PI -26.5-40GHz-£750 or PI on PLIFIER 84474 0.1-406 Dual -£300. iS •2probes -£250.
C. r nly 050. AMPLIFIER 84470 00MCS storage •2probes -£200.
Goul. 38 test oscillator •manual -£150. (400

.
f
h
at
POWER AMPLIFIER 84-1 A -1722A -1725A •275MC S •2probes -000-£400.
Marconi 6155A Signal Source-1 to 2GHz -LED PPRE +POWER AMPLIFI 0.01-1.3GHZ 1744A -100MCS storage- large screen -f250
Barr & Stroud Variable filter EF3 0.1Hz-1
low pass •£150, other makes in stoc
HP 357
MAP
iet er p4 1 3MCIS OP
ation Meter-50K
HP1745A -1746A 100MC S-large smi•r- L35 ,1
H 00A -16Hz digitizing -E500.
Racal/Dana 9300 OMS voltmeter - MARC Tru S Meter - A -50MCS digitizing -£500
HP 8750A storage normalizer 400 N, A ARCO AF Power Meter dfi l -100MC/S digitizing -Lb00.
Marconi mod meters ty E2£1,000. - WE900
£350.
ARCOMINOO.69608 Po e 1GHZ digitizing -EI,000
Racal/Dana counters 16-9917. 1SIGNAL SOU -FX
50Mc s-3GHz •[100 - X standards. 4 18GHZ- L250 E4
HP180TR. HP181T, HP1 es £300 -£500. CAL 1792 • NICA early - 1, AVE CO S-AILLED READOUT
HP432A-435A or B-436A- • eters •powerheads to model v/ d test. 35ID Au 8
E150 -£1750 -spare heu. available. • OX -C EIP 371 z-18GHz -£850.
HP3586A or Cselective level meter -£00. MUNICATI BP 45 MC/S-18GHz -000.
HP86222A.B Sweep PI -01.2.4GHz •ATT £1000-£1250. MAI MES "' .1501-502- 5' 4- $45 u ncy Counter -10Hz-18GHz -C1K.
HP86290A+B Sweep PI-2 -18GHz £1000 -£1250. Mic ve requency Counter -10HZ-26.5GHz -£1.5k
HP8620C Mainframe -£250. IEEE £350. -Prog ti tact - rog 20M 5Micro eSource Locking -10Hz-18GHz -£1.2K.
HP8165A Programmable signal source •1MHZ -50 Gen -E 50 -DM Prog Microwave Pulse Counter -300MC/S-26.5GHz -(1.4K.
HP3455/3456A Digital voltmeter -£400. Micro Co ter 20HZ-24GHZ -SMA Socket -£800
-£400.
HP5370A Universal time interval counter -Cl K7000- - s-760 7633-
Micro C r20HZ-18GHZ -N Socket -£700.
HP5335A Universal counter •200Mc/s-£1 £1,000. 60540 Co 800MC/S-18GHz -£600.
7834-7
HP3552A Transmission test set •£50. 7A13-7A18 6246A Cou 26GHz -(1.2K.
TEKTRONIX 577 Curve tracer .adapt 53A-7880-7 SD z-4.5GHz -£400.
TEKTRONIX 1502/1503 TOO cable test 2-7514-7M H OPT 010-005-46GHz -new in box -E5k
HP86998 Sweep PI VIO oscillator .01 86900 MF - HP53 nter 10HZ-18GHz -Nixey -£500.
S53-55.1.
C250. Both [500. P53 Counter 10HZ-18-24GHt -£800-11K -OPTS
HP POWER SUPPLIES +We -
Dummy Loads & Power att up to 2.5 kilowatts FX up to 18GHz (Rya eyallabe. Als96000 tots £ 1-002F 3-005-011 available.
micro wave parts new and ex equip! •relays -anenuators - 342A •53445 Source Synchronizer -£1.5K.
switches -waveguides •'figs -SMA -APC7 plugs -adaptors RADIO COM4b1ICATION 1IrSETS 345A 500MC S 11 Digit LED Readout -£400.
etc. qty. in stock. BULK PURCHASE ONLY FROM JOHNS HP5345A •5354A Plugin -4GHz -£700.
B&K Items in stock -ask for list. HP RCOI,R1 Lotnournic.u., Test Se Opt ble HP5345A •5355A Plugin with 53564 18GHz Head -E1K.
Power Supplies Heavy duty • bench in stock -Farnell •HP - -7 1 -1113-K13. £1,500-£ 7 HP5385A 10Hz 5386A-5386A 3GHz Counter -(1K-(2K.
Weir •Thurlby -Racal etc. Ask for list. Large quantity in stock, opt 002 Spect us tracking ieralor Racal/Dana Counter 1991-160MC/S -£200.
all types to 400 amp 100Kv. -3-4-5-11-1 art includes syn sig Racal/Dana Counter 1992-1.3GHz -£600.
HP8405A Vector voltmeter late colour £400. or -digital osc r•mod m t Racal/Dana Counter 9921-3GHz -£350.
HP8508A Vector voltmeter -E2500. Fpower meter £2,
HP8505A Network Ant 500KHz-1.3GHz -£1000.
'SIGNAL GENERATORS
HP8505A •8502A or 8503A test sets- £12
HP8640A -AM-FM 0.5-512-1024MC/S -£200-£400
HP8505A 8502A or 8503A •8501A
HP86406 -Phase locked -AM-FM-0.5-5121024MC S -L500
Phillips 3217 50Mc soscilloscop ft2 pus RLN
E' 2K Opts 1-2-3 available.
Wavetek-Schlumberger 4031 Ra o mu n set 17 2955 Test Sets-1000M
HP8654A -BAM-FM 10MC/S-520MC/S -£300.
CON 2958 RF Test Sets-1000MC • ch
HP8656A SYN AM-FM 0.1-990MC/S -£900.
LIGHT AND OPTICAL EQUIPMENT ON1 2960 0F Test Sets-1000 1 each HP86568 SYN AM-FM 0.1-990MC/S -(1.5K.
Anritsu ML93A & Optical Lead Pow ,-r Meter -E250. M ONI 2955A RF Test Sets-1000 £1,500 each
HP8657A SYN AM-FM 0.1-1040MC/S -C2K.
Anritsu ML938 & Optical 1_,•ad Pnwe , Meter -E350. MARCONI 2960A RF Test Sets•1000MC/S -£1,500 each.
HP86578 SYN AM-FM 0.1-2060MC/S -£3K.
Power Sensors for above MARRA MA98A •MA913A Battery ANRITSU MS555A2 Radio Comm Ant-1000M/Cs -E750
HP8660C SYN AM -FM-PM-0.01- 1300MC/S-2600MCIS -
Pack MZ95A. each HP8660D SYN AM-FM-PM-0.01-1300MC/S-2600MC/S -£3K.
Anritsu MW97A Pulse Echo Tester. MARCONI 2019A SYNTHESIZED SIGNAL GENERATORS -
HP8673D SYN AM-FM-PM-0.01-26.5 GHz -112K.
PI available -MH914C 1.3 -MH9156 1.3 -MH91313 0.85 • 80KC S 1040MC S -AM FM -[400 ,nc instruction book - HP3312A Function Generator AM-FM 13MCS-Dual -£300.
MH925A 1.3 •MFI929A 1.55 •MH925A 13GI MH914C 1.3SM - tested HP3314A Function Generator AM-FM- 1/C0-20MC.S -£600.
£500 yone P.I. MARCONI 2022E SYNTHESIZED SIGNAL GENERATOR -
HP3325A SYN Function Generator 21MCIS -£800.
Anritsu MW98A lime Domain Reflector 10KC S 1.0IGHZ AM-FM -£500 inc. instruction book -
HP33258 SYN Function Generator 21MC,S -E2K.
Pl available •MH914C 1.3 -MH91513 13 -MH9138 085 • tested HP8673•B SYN AM-FM-PH 2-26.5 GHt -£6.5K
MH925A 13-MH929A 1.55 -MH925A 13GI -MH914C 13SM - RAS APN 62 LE Si.Gen 0.1Hz -260KHz crw book £250 HP3326A SYN 2CH Function Generator 13MC S-IEEE -£1.4K.
(500 •one Pl. HP3336A-B-C SYN FundLevel Gen 21MCIS -E400-£300-£500
Anritsu MZ100A E0 Converter. WE KEEP IN STOCK HP and other makes of RF Frequency
Racal/Dana 9081 SYN 5/0 AM•FM-PH-5-520MC/S -£300.
MG912B ILD 1.351 Light Source •MG9213 ILD 0.85) doublers which when fitted to the RF output socket of a
Racal/Dana 9082 SYN S/G AM-FM-PH-1.5-520MC/S -£400.
Light Source £350. S•Generator doubles the output frequency EG.50-1300MC/S to
Racal/Dana 9084 SYN S/G AM-FM-PH-.001.104MC/S -£300.
Anritsu MZ118A 0 EConverter. 50-2600MC S price from £250 -£450 each.
Racal/Dana 9087 SYN S/G AM-FM-PH-.001-1300MC/S -C1K.
•MH922A 0.8 0,'E unit MI4923 A1.3 0/E unit £350. Marconi TF2008 AM-FM-Sweep 10KC/S-510MC/S (200 Fully
Anritsu ML968 Power Meter & Charger £450. SPECTRUM ANALYZERS Tested to £300. as new .book •probe kit in wooden box.
Anritsu MN95B Var,able Att. 1300 £100. HP 3580A 5HZ-50KHZ -£750.
Marconi TF2015 AM-FM-10•520MCS (100.
Photo Dyne 1950 OR Continuous An. 1300 -1500 £100. HP 3582A Dual 0.2HZ-25.5KHZ -£1,500. Marconi TF2016A AM-FM 10KCS-120MC/S -£100.
Photo Dyne 1800 FA. Att C100. HP 3585A 20HZ-40MC/S -(3.500. Marconi TF2171/3 Digital Synchronizer for 2015,2016A -£50.
Cossor-Raytheon 1081 Optical Cable Fault Locator HP 3588A 10HZ-150MC'S -£7,500.
Marconi TF2018A AM-FM SYN 80KCS-520MCS -£500.
1000M 0-10kM HP 8568A 100HZ-1.5GHZ -£3,500. Marconi TF2019A AM-FM SYN 80KC.S-1040MC/S £650-£1K.
TEK P6701 Optical Converter 700 MC S-850 £250. HP 85688 100HZ-1.5GHZ -£4,500. Marconi TF2022E AM-FM SYN 10KC S-1.01GHz -£1K-£1.2K.
TEK 0E150 Fibre Optic TOO -£750. HP 85908 9KC/S-1.8GHZ -£4,500. R& SSMPD AM-FM-PH 5KHz•2720MCS -£3K.
HP81512A Head 150MC,S 950-1700 £250. HP 85698 10MC/S10.01-22GHZ) -£3,500. Anritsu MG3601A SYN AM-FM 0 11040MC,'S -£1.2K.
HP84801A Fibre Power Sensor 600-1200 £250. HP 3581A Signal Analyzer 15HZ-50KHZ -£400

ITEMS BOUGHT FROM HM GOVERNMENT BEING SURPLUS PRICE IS EX WORKS SAE FOR ENQUIRIES. PHONE FOR APPOINTMENT OR FOR DEMONSTRATION OF ANY ITEMS. AVAILABILITY OR PRICE CHANGE
VAT AND CARRIAGE EXTRA ITEMS MARKED TESTED HAVE 30 DAY WARRANTY WANTED TEST EQUIPMENT-VALVES-PLUGS AND SOCKETS-SYNCROS-TRANSMITTING AND RECEIVING EQUIPMENT ETC

Johns Radio, Whitehall Works, 84 Whitehall Road East, Birkenshaw, Bradford BD11 2ER. Tel: (01274) 684007. Fax: 651160

CIRCLE NO, 109 ON REPLY CARD

 COMMUNICATIONS

irtr,
wireless network Cambridge-based Radiant Networks has
created clever nodes that can guarantee
radio wave coverage in the 20 to 40GHz
spectrum. Melanie Reynolds explains
how it is done.

C
ambridge based Radiant But Radiant says the technology it
Networks has been working on is developing can overcome this
the problem of radio waves in shortcoming. "It doesn't alter the
the 20 to 40GHz region of the basic laws of physics, propagation is
spectrum being unable to whizz still line of sight," explains
round, or go through, obstructions. Radiant's technical director, Tim
This fact causes problems in Jackson. "The whole point here is
broadband fixed wireless networks that what it does is change the
because it means line of sight is problem."
required between the transmitter Typical broadband fixed wireless
and receiver in order for the system networks use apoint-to-multipoint
to work. (PMP) network.
In this network abase station
Radiant's intelligent node can transmits to anumber of subscriber
connect to four other nodes in a units based at individual customer
Web-like wireless network. premises. Because of the frequencies

The intelligent node: what it can do

Radiant's mesh architecture consists mainly of customer nodes, but
the same basic product is used for several different purposes.
• Customer node -provides network services to the customer's
terminating equipment.
• TNCP (Trunk Network Connection Point) - is used to make the
connection between the mesh and the trunk network. Typical
connection bandwidth is 155Mbits/s.
• MIP (Mesh Insertion Point) -provides the means by which
bandwidth is introduced to the mesh and consists of at least two
connected nodes. One of these acts as ahigh speed interface to
the TNCP while the others link to other nodes in the mesh.
• Seed node -these are added to the network to provide
additional coverage. This could be when the network is initially
deployed and there are few customers or if acustomer is
isolated. As more customers are added to the mesh the seed
nodes become redundant.

ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 COMMUNICATIONS

used, the subscriber unit must be Efficient management of services

able to see the base station in order
to receive signals from it. If there is
abuilding or tree in the way the
signal is blocked.
The appearance of obstacles in the
path is obviously acommon
occurrence and the standard way
round this is to overlap the base
station coverage areas. This means
customers can be reached from a
variety of different directions but
this approach has disadvantages.
Base stations are expensive and
because multiple frequencies have to
be used to cover aparticular area it,
"knackers the spectral efficiency,"
ATM
according to Jackson.
Radiant uses an Internet style
mesh configuration. The mesh
system does not use anetwork of
Full service network with intelligent
base stations and subscriber units. bandwidth management
Instead it uses intelligent nodes
equipped with four small directional
antennas. These nodes combine the
functions of the subscriber unit and number of other nodes being in the subscriber equipment in point-to-
base station equipment into one line-of-sight. "Instead of one chance multipoint but we don't have the
product. to see abase station Icould have base stations," emphasises Jackson.
tens, hundreds, maybe even "You're getting alot more
Four rotatable beams thousands of chances and Ireally performance and coverage but not
The antennas generate four separate only need one of them," exclaims actually paying significantly more per
microwave beams at frequencies Jackson.
between 28 and 40GHz, delivering up Each node transmits and receives
to 25Mbit/s in full duplex connections. from other customer nodes so Radiant Networks:
Under the control of the network, instead of abase station providing
the antennas are able to rotate the coverage, the customers are a brief history
through 360 degrees. This allows actually providing the coverage. Radiant Networks is based in
each node to connect to up to four Radiant claims the system Cambridge and was
other nodes thus creating the mesh capacity is 50 times higher than
originally spun out of
configuration. As the technology is PMP systems and it provides near
adopted, this will mean alarge 100 per cent coverage. Because communication specialist
narrow radio beams are used for the Plextek in October 1997.
links between nodes, this allows The company now
frequencies to be re-used more employs 27 full time staff,
frequently.
The antennas Protocols that can run over the
but is currently recruiting
and expects to have over
link include asynchronous transfer
generate four mode, or ATM, and Internet 100 by the end of this year.
protocol, IP. Venture capital funds of
separate $20m were secured in April
Domestic services too
microwave beams Initially, the system is aimed at busi-
ness but it is also designed with the
•this year. The funding, from
anumber of venture capital
at frequencies residential market in mind. Services firms including Advent
that could be offered using the system Venture Partners and Intel
between 28 and include video-on-demand, video con- Capital, will allow the firm to
ferencing, interactive television, high-
40GHz delivering speed internet access and telephony.
Despite combining the base
start trials and manufacture a
product.

up to 25Mbit/s station and subscriber functions in During the past three years
one product, and it having four the company has raised
full duplex antennas, Radiant is happy its mesh around $10m of funding.
network is competitive. "The cost of
connections the node is very similar to the cost of

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 601

INSTRUMENTATION

Versati e
transistor curve tracer
A
Useful for selecting matched transistor curve tracer pro- extension to testing at higher voltages
vides an instant overview of and currents.
pairs, this transistor curve tracer the operation of atransistor,
be it abipolar type or an FET, cover- Curve -tracing principle
tests bipolar devices, junction ing arange of combinations of volt- A transistor curve tracer should dis-
age and current. As such, it is more play the collector current of the tran-
field-effect transistors and metal- revealing than a spot hFE measure- sistor under test as the ordinate —or Y
ment on a transistor tester — even co-ordinate —of aplot. Varying col-
oxide-silicon field-effect though such atest may be quantita- lector/emitter voltage V, is the X co-
transistors -both p and n types tively more precise. ordinate, or abscissa, with several dif-
A curve tracer is particularly useful ferent fixed values of base current as
in each case. Ian Hickman for selecting matched pairs of parameter.
devices, either of the same polarity, or Figure 1 shows a convenient
describes its development, and complementary devices, for use in arrangement using afloating ac sup-
audio power amplifiers. ply as the V„ supply for an n-p-n
illustrates its operation with In days gone by, transistor curve device. Low value series resistor R is
tracer plug-ins were available for a added to monitor the collector cur-
typical traces produced by each well known make of oscilloscope. rent. The fact that some of the supply
type of device. Also, now, as then, oscilloscopes voltage is dropped across R is of no
designed specifically as transistor significance. The arrangement dis-
curve tracers are available. However, plays the true characteristic provided
Ihad long intended to make myself only that the base current remains
such an instrument, using my existing constant.
TEK485A as the display. There is however a trade-off in
The instrument described below is exchange for for the convenience of
the result. It fits my limited require- Fig. 1: the voltage drop across R is
ments admirably, but those of you due to the emitter current rather than
with more ambitious ideas will find solely to the collector current. Except
the circuit readily modifiable, for for very low gain transistors, the dif-
ference is small, and the arrangement
of Fig. 1is commonly employed. The
curve tracer described here adopts the
same scheme.

The circuit
Fig. 1. Basic To
Figures 2 and 3 show the circuit.
'scope
transistor curve Adjustable
Supplies for the op-amps are derived
current Inputs
tracer, plotting by half-wave rectification from atap
source
collector-emitter Gnd on the mains transformer 7' 1.This was
voltage against an obsolete RS rectifier transformer,
base current. rated for use at 0.7A dc output.
LN
E
Although a high-gain transistor
3Amp under test will draw more than 0.7A,
Fused that only happens on one step out of
Plug eight, and then only on alternate half

602 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 INSTRUMENTATION

cycles. As a result, the transformer form part of the current sensing resis- emitter voltage of atransistor, without
actually leads an easy life — even tance. affecting the base current.
when testing at high-currents. Output at Y connects to the Y input The op-amp in question, /C IA ,pro-
The arrangement used permits test- of an oscilloscope, while the collector vides abase reference voltage for the
ing at values of 12, 24 and 30V nom- voltage at X1connects to the X input, base-current generator section, which
inal V„. Other mains transformers, the scope being set to operate in X/Y is shown in Fig. 3. This reference
preferably with two or more sec- mode of course. voltage equals the Vbe of the transistor
ondary sections, may obviously be By using the Y setting at I V/div. or under test, or nearly so, allowing for
employed. 100mV/div. in conjunction with S5, the small attenuation provided by R52
In Fig. 2, the transistor being tested current ranges of 100pA, 1mA, 10mA and R6.
is shown as an n-p-n device, fitted on and 100mA per division are available. Op-amp /C2A produces a mains-
one of three test sockets, all in paral- Other Y 'scope sensitivities provide derived 50Hz clock waveform. This
lel. The varying collector voltage is yet more ranges, such as 50mA, signal clocks 12 stage ripple counter
supplied by the secondary windings 20mA per division etc. Setting the Y /C3,of which only the first three
of 7), via 51A and DI in this case, input to 2V/div. provides a stages are used. The seven-stage
since the transistor being tested is n- 200mA/div. range, up to the limit of CD4024 would perhaps have been a
p-n. the available swing from / C113 .This is more logical choice, but Ihad a4040
Base current supplied via R2 is con- equivalent to, say, 1.4A or more. to hand. Either will do —but not the
stant over the whole of the positive Originally, Ihad intended to supply 14-stage CD4020, as in this device,
half cycle of voltage applied to the the base current, which must be held Q2 and Q3 are not available.
collector of the transistor under test. constant at each of the various steps Resistors R44.46 produce aramp of
The `12' of Fig. 1is here represented of the parameter, from aHowland eight 25pA steps, resulting in astair-
by R12 plus RID ,or R12 alone for current pump'. However, initial case of IV steps at the output of /CID .
higher current tests. Op-amp /Cm design work suggested that it might At the output of IC,, the staircase is
amplifies this volt drop by afactor of be difficult for aHowland-type circuit positive going for n-p-n transistors
20, giving an output scaling of to accommodate the large range of under test, or negative for p-n-p, as
1V/100mA or IV/1mA, depending on base currents that Ihad in mind. appropriately selected by S3.
the setting of 55. So another scheme was used, bor- By means of S2, base current steps
Switch S5 is arranged so that on the rowed from an article that appeared in a1, 2, 5sequence from 1pA up to
high current ranges, the contact resis- recently in these pages 2.This used the 1mA, can be applied to the transistor
tance of the switch shorting out R10 near infinite input resistance of a being tested. As the voltage steps
does not add to its resistance and FET-input op-amp to sense the base- applied to SIare produced relative to

RLA1 D3 D4

N.O. °0 N.C. X2
R19
R9 4R5
D, e D2
R4 6k8
10k

C2
R5 6k8 10p

S4A
R25 10k
X1

SlA •••
R1 R3 IC1A RLA2
R8 4M7 TL084 T1
T.U.T.
N.0.0% N.C.

D5
+15V

R20 C3
3k3 1000p
MA, •
C 6 50R B OR5 R21
S5 3k3
• e---•
R13
All -15V
10k
D •—mAA,--
Dl. D2. D5, D6 -1N5401 100k
IC2A
D2, D3 - 1N4148 TL082
Tri Tr2 -BC182
R14 Clock
10k LN
E
3Amp
R24 Feed
R53
220k Plpg
R54
10k
Fig. 2. Circuit oía versatile curve tracer, !cis 10k
S1B
TL084
excluding the lh constant-current IC2B
generator section. TL082

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 603

INSTRUMENTATION

IC4

IC3
+15V
78L05

S3 R48
G <
0.° 120K
R43 R44 9
11 CD4040

IC1C 200K
R40 R42 R49
R38 TL084 470K
1M 100K 100K R45 7
R41
100K
R37
100K
500K
R46 6

820pT
\ R50
R39 100K TL084
R36 9 H 50K 1K2
300K
S2 10u
C5

G<
R51
1K
Fig. 3. The lb constant current staircase generator section. A
Clock
4024 is amore elegant choice of counter, but Ihad a4040
to hand, and it works.

point G, i.e. relative to the Vbe of the the secondary voltage, eight consec- Here, the collector of the transistor
transistor under test, both silicon and utive positive-going half-cycles for n- being tested receives half cycles of
germanium devices can be tested, p-n devices and eight negative for p- the voltage selected at S4 via Sip.
without errors due to Vbe variations. n-p. These are positive for n-p-n, or neg-
At the peak of each V, trace, the ative for p-n-p.
Managing the trace spot on the screen of the oscilloscope A similar half cycle of voltage
To display aset of eight WV, curves, is comparatively slow moving, com- appears at one input of SIB ,but the
the curve tracer uses half-cycles of pared to the rest of the trace. So that other half cycle also appears due to
part of the trace appears brighter, as the diode connected to output M of
you can see in the screen shots illus- the transformer.
trated. Switch SIB selects X3,the version
However, each is at a different appropriate for n-p-n or p-n-p testing,
point on the screen. But with the and the result is as shown in Fig. 6.
oscilloscope's X input taken from X1 You can see from this diagram that
of Fig. 2, during each and every instead of dwelling at the origin for
alternate unused half-cycle, the spot 50% of the time, in the unused half
remains at the origin of the paramet- cycles, it draws an 'underline' to the
ric set of curves. The result is a /b=0 curve.
bright spot, clearly visible in Fig. 4. However, if like my oscilloscope,
This carries with it the danger of a the amplifiers of yours will accept a
burn mark, due to local overheating 100% overscan beyond the graticule
of the phosphor. without complaint, the simplest
To avoid this, / C2B produces a30V arrangement is the one Ihave adopt-
peak squarewave, for application to ed, shown as X2 in Fig. 2.
the Z modulation input of an oscillo- On n-p-n testing, the drop in D3
scope. Unfortunately, it is not suit- closely matches that in Di,while D4
able for use with my TEK475A, as serves the same purpose in relation to
the input resistance of the Z modula- D2 for p-n-p working. Either way, on
Fig. 4. Display of the lb/V c.characteristics of aBC1088, tion input, which operates up to the unused half-cycles, instead of
1mAidiv. vertical, 2V/div. horizontal. The excessively bright 50MHz, is 15Kfl. The problem is remaining stationary, the spot is
spot at the origin, where the beam rests for 50% of the time - that there can only be one OV chassis deflected way off-screen, in the
with danger of spot-burn -is only too obvious. connection between the oscilloscope opposite direction to the set of
and the curve tracer, which means curves.
that the signal current drawn by the Z
modulation input must return via Overload protection
R10-FR12 .It is then indistinguishable With an instrument such as this, pro-
from the current through the transis- tection is an important consideration
.tor being tested. at the design stage.
If your oscilloscope has a lML Z My initial idea was to detect excess
modulation input, and you are not emitter current via R12 ,and use this
interested in testing at very low lev- to force ahigh level on the reset line,
els of l e,then the Z output from /C2B pin 11 of / C3,removing the base
will work fine. In my case, and drive to the transistor being tested.
A
doubtless others, another solution But this would not allow for the con-
Fig. 5. An arrangement, one of several possible, for avoiding must be sought. nection of adevice with acollector-
spot-burn when Zmodulation cannot be used. One solution is shown in Fig. 5. emitter short circuit, or worse still, a

604 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 INSTRUMENTATION

device which develops a collector- this reason, the four highest current /
b

emitter short circuit during testing. ranges of S2 should only be used in

Instead, Tr' —or Tr2 in the case of conjunction with the centre socket.
ap-n-p fault —detects when the cur- Plug-in adapters were made for this
rent through R12 exceed about 1.2A socket, to take T03, 'plastic TO3'
and operates relay RL A . Contact and other large devices.
RL A1 thus clears the short or over- In addition to a choice of / b step

load, while contact RLA 2 provides a sizes, with the particular mains trans-
self-hold function. former used, three different collector
To reset the circuit after removing voltage ranges are available.
the faulty device —or setting alower
base current — the mains supply to ...and other devices
the unit must be switched off. The task Iset myself was to design a
Resistors R19 and R22 have no effect curve tracer that would also charac-
on small signal devices, but reduce terise field-effect transistors — both
the collector dissipation of the tran- MOSFETs and JFETs —in addition to
sistor under test on the highest-cur- bipolar transistors. For this purpose,
rent steps. Their effect can be seen in constant gate/source voltage Vg,steps
some of the screen shots of devices are required, rather than constant /b Fig. 6. The same device and characteristic as Fig. 4, but using
under test, shown in the following steps. the arrangement of Fig. 5to avoid spot-burn.
illustration s. An obvious way to achieve this is

Fig. 7. Panel
layout of the
transistor
Vc volts max
l
b mA/step
characteristic
Vgs mV/stop
curve tracer.
33 20
To save space,

oo
16 43 50 10
the diagram has
been reduced
to 60"., of its
1mM> lb NPN Vc
original size.

100,MAIN

o
TO18 ECB

Checking bipolar transistors... simply to dump the / b steps to OV,

A wide choice of base currents is via alicfl resistor, giving steps of IV.
available, so that both small signal 0.5V etc., depending on the setting 01
transistors and power transistors can S2. However, this would result in
be accommodated. Small-signal flowing through Rio+R i2 , and so
devices can be plugged directly into being indistinguishable from the drain
one of the three sockets provided, one current / d.

for 1018 types, one for 105 and a The solution is provided by S.
third between them, with three holes which is shown in Fig. 2in the 'bipo-
in arow, for T092. The TO92 option lar' position. In the FET position, S6B
has the usual centre-pin-collector lay- shorts the non-inverting input of / CI
out, Fig. 7. to OV, point C, providing a loss
To minimise the possibility of par- impedance pseudo OV ground at
asitic oscillations during test, a 1 /CIA 's output point G.
'base-stopper resistor' is mounted Switch S6A connects aI kû resistor
directly at the base pin of each socket. R7 to this, giving increments of V,
This resistor also doubles as the base- relative to OV without passing
current defining resistor for the current through Rio+R 12 . Op-amp
I mA/step range, position 1of S2. /CIA sources or sinks the current.
Op-amp / CIA monitors the voltage swallowing it and returning it to the
at the base connection of the centre plus or minus 15V rail as appropriate. Fig. 8. The same device and characteristic as Fig. 4again,
socket, and hence via R2 when one of A further complication is that while but this time using the X2 output from fig. 2. to drive the
the other two sockets are in use. For most MOSFETs require aVg,of the Xsweep.

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 605

INSTRUMENTATION

same polarity as Vds,JFETs require a For n-p-n bipolars and enhancement by the JN line in Fig. 7.
Vg,of the opposite polarity —as do n- n-channel MOSFETs, S1 and S3 are
channel MOSFETs of the depletion used in the positions shown in Fig. 1, Some typical results
variety. This is the reason for making while for n-channel JFETs. S3 only is Figure 8shows the same device and
S1and S3 separate switches. set to the other position, as indicated settings as in Fig. 4, but using the X2

111
immommi
nommunramin
imindhurems

Fig. 9. Characteristics of an n-channel IFET: BF244A, nominal Fig. 12. Characteristics of a VN46AF N channel MOSFET, lmA/div
12V Vd„ lmA/div vertical, 2V/div horizontal, 0.2V/step vg,. vertical, 2V/div horizontal, 1V/step Ve ,12V nominal Vd,.

Fig. 10. Characteristics of a8C214L; nominal 12V Vds, Fig. 13. Characteristics of a T1P41A n-p-n silicon
lmA/div vertical, 2V/div horizontal, 2pA/step lb. power/switching transistor, 200mA/div vertical, 2V/div
horizontal, lmA/step lb, nominal 12V for V.

-At

Fig. 11. Characteristics of a 8C1848, 10mA/div vertical, 10V/div Fig. 14. Characteristics of a8C182, 2mA/div vertical, 10V/dit
horizontal, 20pA/step lb, 32V Vce nominal. horizontal, 20pA/step lb, 32V nominal for V„ ,see text.

606 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 INSTRUMENTATION

output of Fig. 2to prevent burn spots. PTFE TO5

Normally, the trace would be set one transistor
major graticule division lower and socket
five to the left. In this way, the origin
of the parametric set of curves would
be at the extreme bottom left of the
graticu le.
Figure 9 shows the characteristics
of an n-channel JFET, namely a
E C B
BF244A, at a nominal 12V Vds,
ImA/div vertical, 2V/div horizontal, Fig. 15. Circuit diagram of an appliqué
0.2V/step Vg,. Note that the top curve unit, used to permit the curve tracer to
corresponds to Vgs=0V, the hi„curve, be used for evaluation dual-gate
and that the device is largely cut off MOSFET devices.
by aVies of —1.4V.
Figure 10 shows the characteristics
of ap-n-p bipolar device, aBC2I4L. nominal. Peak collector dissipation of
For ap-n-p device, of course, the ori- over 8W would have been even
gin is at the top right. The character- greater but for the effect of R19.
istics are shown at a nominal 12V The reduction of peak collector Fig. 16. Characteristics of an MEM614 dual-gate MOSFET,
Vds, I mA/div vertical, 2V/div hori- voltage on the higher current traces is 2mA/div horizontal, 100mv/step Vo, 16V nominal V„ ,see
zontal, 211A/step h. evident from the photo. On the 24V text.
Note that comparing these curves and 32V nominal V„ settings, R22 is
with those for the BC108B in Fig. 4, brought into circuit, further limiting
the BC214L has a distinctly lower the peak current. These resistors also
collector slope resistance. help to limit the peak prospective voltage/drain current characteristics
Figure 11 shows a BC I84B with fault current that contact RLA 1 may of aGeneral Instrument Corporation
settings of IOmA/div vertical, be called upon to clear. dual-gate MOSFET, type MEM6I4,
10V/div horizontal, 20µA/step Figure 14 shows the results for a Fig. 16.
32V V„ nominal. With the oscillo- BC182, at 2mA/div vertical, 10V/div
scope Y input set to 1V/div, S5 gives horizontal, 201.1A/step h, and 32V In summary
achoice of lmA/div or 100mA/div nominal for V„. Dissipation was The circuit presented is auseful addi-
vertical. The 10mA/div setting was much less than in the case of the tion to any laboratory's instrumenta-
obtained by using 100mA/div at $5, BC I 84B, so there was none of the tion —especially if you need to select
but increasing the Y sensitivity to gradual heating up of the device over matched devices for use in power
100mV/div. the period of the exposure visible in amplifiers. Incorporating Ild1 stop-
Fig. 11. pers has resulted in the absence of
Power issues Nevertheless, the heating and cool- parasitic oscillations, which can be a
You can see that at the maximum ing of the silicon pellet at each indi- problem especially when testing RF
voltage excursion on the highest cur- vidual J,, step —especially the higher transistors.
rent step, the instantaneous dissipa- current steps —is clearly in evidence. If the unit will frequently be used
tion in the TO92 style plastic device for testing enhancement-mode
was close on 3W. Of course, the aver- Modifications for MOSFETs, then auseful modification
age was less than this, but the gradu- dual-gate FETs might concern the biasing arrange-
al heating up of the device, over the While the instrument will display the ments. The linear results shown by
20 second exposure required by my characteristics of both JFETs and the VN46AF of Fig. 12 are by no
home-made oscilloscope camera, is MOSFETS, both depletion and means typical of MOSFETs. Many of
clearly visible; if left on test much enhancement, as it stands it will not these do not conduct appreciably at
longer, the device might have display those of dual-gate MOSFETs. all until the Vg,has risen to several
expired. These devices are often used as AGC- volts, whereafter another volt or so
Figure 12 shows a VN46AF n- able RF amplifiers at VHF and UHF. switches them on fully.
channel MOSFET on test, with set- But asimple appliqué unit will reme- A means of raising the potential of
tings of ImA/div vertical, 2V/div hor- dy this lack. point G by apedestal of afew volts,
izontal, 1V/step Vg.,, 12V nominal Figure 15 shows the circuit of such so that Vg,steps of IV or even less
an add-on, designed to plug into the can be applied, relative to the
This device is remarkable for two of central one of the three test sockets. pedestal, would be useful for many
its characteristics. Firstly, the drain With the component values shown, power MOSFETs — especially those
slope resistance is very high, regard- gate 2of adual-gate n-channel MOS- specifically rated for use in switching
less of the actual value of drain cur- FET is held at about +3V — afairly circuits. •
rent. Secondly, the mutual conduc- typical sort of value. Any desired
tance, gm ,is very nearly constant, value could be arranged, by changing
from OV Vg,upwards, as evidenced one of the two IOMS2 resistors; you
by the nearly equal steps of Id. This is could even substitute a10Mil preset References
clearly a very linear device for potentiometer for one of them, to per- 1. Pease, R. A. •Improve circuit
small/medium signal amplification. mit evaluation of the characteristics performance with aI-op-amp current
Figure 13 is the result of testing a of the device under test at different pump', p. 85, EDN 20 Jan., 1983,
TIP4 I A n-p-n silicon power/switch- values of Va. Vol. 28, No 2.
ing transistor. The settings were Iused the circuit of Fig. 15, con- 2. March, Ian, 'h FE tester uses no
200mA/div vertical, 2V/div horizon- structed on a scrap of copper-strip meter', Electronics World, April
tal, 1mA/step h, and 12V for V„ matrix board, to record the collector 2000, p296.

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 607

:irnniii
i
whitewash Most ironic of all, the current hoopla for techniques developed specifically
As life styles become more and tedium being invoked in the name for those situations.
mobile, people are looking to of Bluetooth is poor tribute to the Three technologies are in con-
memory of aViking ruler whose his- tention, named HiperLAN/2, HomeRF
wire-free technology to put torical claim to fame was for spread- and Bluetooth, but in fact contention is
ing sweetness and harmony. Still, who the wrong word. Although the plat-
critical information at their said life was fair? forms may appear as competing solu-
tions, they serve radically different pur-
fingertips. It's a wireless world, In the air and everywhere poses.
'Wireless' —aword that until recently Fortunately the task of choosing the
and a Bluetooth one if you sounded as archaic as horse-drawn right wireless product for users' appli-
believe all you're told. Not milk floats — is suddenly sexy again, cations and working style will be sim-
having been appropriated by marke- plified by 'oven-ready' solutions
necessarily though; other teers who find it more meaningful offered by manufacturers. End users
than, say, wire-free. Be that as it may, will have little or no part in any deci-
technologies may be more the umbilical cords that used to tie sion-making process. At least that's
people to afixed location in order to what one hopes, although there are
appropriate. Andrew Emmerson work are vanishing. already signs that Bluetooth may be
Within the workplace or out and employed as amarketing gimmick and
compares the contenders.
about, people expect to have access to persuader.
phone and data communication and So what are Bluetooth, HomeRF and
now to powerful multimedia applica- HiperLAN/2, and how do they differ?

I
t's funny how some technologies tions as well —regardless of location. All three are essentially short-range
catch the mood of the moment. Last It's lucky then that this dream of radio systems using ultra-low power
year you couldn't open the trade 'everywhere, all the time' wireless microwave radio frequencies and both
press without reading about MP3, access to information is finally also replace cable connections. But
while this year if they're not wearying becoming areality. beyond that they differ in their concept
you with WAP, then they're sure as Just as people's perceptions of real- and function.
heck boring you with Bluetooth. ity vary, however, so do the means of
It's atriple tragedy really: as atech- achieving the wireless reality. Contenders contrasted
nology Bluetooth is in grave danger of However much users might wish, pro- Bluetooth was described in the article
being over-hyped and misapplied to the viding universal access by means of a 'What Is Bluetooth?' on page 421 of
extent that it will never achieve all single technology is remarkably diffi- the May 2000 issue. It is areplacement
these expectations. What's more, it's cult —as any one who has tried to use for the leads that currently tie aprinter
by no means the only technique for amobile phone deep inside abuilding to a PC or a video recorder to aTV
short-range wireless communication — will know. screen. In effect, Bluetooth connects
whatever you might be led to believe — Indoors and outdoors are totally dif- objects that have alogical affinity and
and it certainly shouldn't be applied to ferent environments to radio system never move far apart.
the exclusion of other, more appropri- designers. Providing wireless connec- HiperLAN/2, on the other hand, is a
ate solutions tivity within offices and homes calls local-area network or LAN product in
which the fixed data cabling of con-
ventional networks is replaced by a
Want to find out more? radio link that floods your complete
premises. It does so in the same way as
Entering HomeRF, HiperLAN/2 or Bluetooth into any Internet search engine will produce
adomestic cordless telephone does at
more hits than you'll have time to read. However, the official Bluetooth website can be
home.
found at http://www.bluetooth.com
You can then use laptop computers
and others at and other portable devices anywhere
http://www.bluetooth.com/bluetoothguide/introlintro2.html you like and link them to shared file
http://www.anywhereyougo.comlayglaygibluetooth/Index.po servers or the Internet. Cross-industry
HiperLAN/2 sites are at, collaboration is working to ensure stan-
http://www.hiperlan2.com/sitelhome.htm dardisation for both techniques and
http://www.etsi.org/technicalactiv/hiperlan2.htm heavyweight support from the major
...and HomeRF can be found at manufacturers will ensure their prod-
http://www.homerforg/ ucts are fully conformant and thus
interoperable.
HiperLAN/2 can carry voice, data

608 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 COMMUNICATIONS

and video, which will appeal to facili-

ties managers and office administrators V.'irel
Penkmal !wade et
looking for asimple, reliable, invisible c, ,tittmutieator 2nd IN'
and unified replacement for the Sa tell
spaghetti junction of cabling that leads
to every desk and hinders unrestricted
movement of desks and departments.
HomeRF — the third contender — is
an intermediate solution. Like
HiperLAN/2, it is an integrated, full-
function wire-free replacement for
structured cabling but without the Fridge
capacity for intensive business use. data pad
As its name implies, HomeRF is
designed primarily to serve the domes-
tic and small office environment, sup- PSTW
xDSL
porting data and telephony in arobust
fashion. It does not supplant Bluetooth
as such and users may well require Talking Cable
both technologies together. Toy Modem

Horses for courses

Xircom Europe, a leading supplier of
mobile information access solutions, speed connectivity and continually are still localised answers. As such, HomeRF is awireless
has experience of Bluetooth and decreasing prices, are making wireless they will not solve the problems of local-area network
HiperLAN/2 and intends to exploit both LAN solutions extremely attractive to nomadic workers who expect seamless with arange of 150
of them on a'horses for courses' basis. businesses large and small. telephone and Internet access to home, feet, designed to
Earlier this year at Cebit, Xircom HiperLAN/2 meets this need by pro- work and on the move. provide
announced plans to integrate awhole viding 'untethered' network access for Seamless remote access demands a communication
array of wireless technologies, includ- computer users across an office, facto- wide-area network — a WAN as throughout asingle
ing Bluetooth and HiperLAN/2 into ry, campus or similar local area. It is opposed to aLAN —and manufacturers household. Its 'shared
offerings that could be customised eas- also touted as a link mechanism for are working on their wireless equiva- wireless access
ily by the corporate enterprise, small PCs, VCRs, cameras and printers in the lent. As it happens, HiperLAN/2 would protocol' operates in
and mid-size business, home-office home. HiperLAN/2 operates in the be well suited to these applications the 2.4GHz band and
worker and consumer. 5.8GHz microwave band with data also. Planners are already considering uses digital
Bluetooth is akind of 'wireless wire' transfer rates of up to 54Mbit/s. It deploying open-access HiperLAN/2 frequency-hopping
used for what Xircom conveniently looks set to trigger the mainstream networks in hot spot areas such as air- spread spectrum
terms 'personal-area networks'. adoption of wireless LAN systems. ports and hotels. radio.
Dispensing entirely with cables and Users of laptop and notebook PCs
plugs, Bluetooth technology transfers Home networking
data via short-range, low power —typ- Serving less intensive demands, the
ically one milliwatt — 2.4GHz radio 'shared wireless access protocol', or
Why 2.4 and 5.8GHz?
signals. SWAP, of HomeRF operates in the Radio frequencies are aprecious and scarce commodity
The data transfer rates of 1Mbit/s — 2.4GHz band and uses a digital fre- —something not normally surrendered to Johnny-come-
20 000 times faster than anormal tele- quency-hopping spread spectrum radio. lately users or those unprepared to pay a licence fee.
phone modem — create a connection Its principles are derived from existing Charging for the use of the airwaves, however, would
environment with no wires for devices DECT cordless and wireless LAN render wireless networking less attractive —and for
such as laptop computers, mobile technology. SWAP supports both a some users, entirely unaffordable. Governments in most
phones, handheld PCs and wearable time-division multiple access, or countries have therefore permitted wireless networking
information accessories. This allows all TDMA, service to provide delivery of in frequency bands set aside many years ago for
these devices to exchange and syn- interactive voice and other time-critical industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) use.
chronise up-to-date information, and to services, and acarrier sense multiple The upside for users is unrestricted access to the
connect to the Internet at high speed — access/collision avoidance, or airwaves at no charge —subject, of course, to observing
all without the need for wires or cables. CSMAICA, service for delivering prescribed power levels. The downside is that these
When Bluetooth-enabled devices are high-speed packet data. bands are already occupied by other users, some
within a 10-metre range of each other, A single network supports up to 127 powerful and 'dirty', such as microwave ovens. This
users can transparently transfer sched- data devices and six full-duplex voice means that users must tolerate a level of mutual
ule and address book information channels. More than one network can interference. There is no protection against this on these
between their accessory device and be operated concurrently in the same crowded frequencies and it is up to users to employ
notebook PC or automatically dial location. frequency hopping and/or other protocols that minimise
through their mobile phone to access Range is stated as 150 feet — ade- the effects of interference.
the Internet. Intelligent handsets will quate for most homes and gardens. The Terming these frequencies 'unlicensed' or
even reduce the volume of their ringing next generation of HomeRF technolo- 'unrestricted' is mistaken by the way; a licence is
signal when they detect the presence of gy will provide enhanced wireless mul- required but in this case it held on behalf of all users (in
other Bluetooth signals. timedia services in the home, it is Britain) by the Secretary of State for Trade & Industry.
claimed. Restrictions do apply to use but end users need not
Untethered access worry about these so long as they use approved
At the same time, changing workgroup Imperfect solution? apparatus.
needs and the increasing mobility of While all three technologies will revo-
employees, combined with the higher- lutionise in-house connectivity, they

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 609

COMMUNICATIONS

can already buy wireless data connec- levels. Wireless LANs for instance use are concerned, alot will depend on the
Give us tion kits that connect to GSM mobile the same 2.4GHz band as Bluetooth result of the cost-versus-capability
telephone handsets. Solution providers and domestic applications may be equation. In performance terms, con-
a clue! are now developing means of connect- stymied by interference from ventional structured cable systems may
It takes little ing them up to the 'third-generation' microwave ovens, also on 2.4GHz. still have the edge but there will be
imagination mobile radio systems currently under Mobile phones with Bluetooth inter- many situations where users are pre-
to decode construction. These developments are faces may find the Bluetooth receiver pared to compromise on data rates if
HiperLAN/2 entirely separate from 'indoor' solu- desensitised when they transmit. offered the opportunity to cut the cord.
as asecond- tions such as Bluetooth and Signs are that they will.
generation HiperLAN/2 though, and it remains to Gargantuan growth... Statistics from Cahners In-Stat pro-
high be seen how wide-area and local-area None of the drawbacks mentioned is pose growth from $771 million in
performance access can be made compatible with likely to cause long-term problems, 1999 to nearly $2.2 billion in 2004.
LAN but one another. although some redefinition of standards This reflects changing workgroup
what about may be required. The prospects for all needs, increased employee mobility
Bluetooth? Technical troubles three technologies look bright, with and the trend towards working at home
Easy! King Other potential concerns —among them heavyweight support from the major or in converted small office environ-
Harald multi-vendor compatibility and user manufacturers. But no-one can predict ments where fixed cabling would be
Bluetooth density — are also brushed aside fre- exactly how the wireless LAN market unacceptable or unfeasible.
was aViking quently. But they need to be addressed will split between HomeRF and Tumbling prices and growing func-
king who sooner rather than later. Patrick Rada HiperLAN/2 — and any other propri- tionality are another factor rendering
brought of US retailer Hello Direct sums it up etary contenders. WLAN solutions increasingly attrac-
about peace neatly: "How can you be sure your Bluetooth introduces entirely new tive to businesses of all sizes.
and IBM Bluetooth notebook will be able functionality. With the prospects of a
harmony, to speak with your Toshiba Bluetooth mass market, the concept should take ...with SoHo setting the pace
which is also PDA and your Hello Direct Bluetooth off rapidly if the analysts and fore- These last two factors will propel the
the aim of headset? And what if dozens of casters are to be trusted. small office and home — often short-
the new Bluetooth users use their Bluetooth Research firm International Data ened to SoHo — market into the lead
Bluetooth PDA, headset, or device, simultane- Corporation, also known as IDC, pre- according to well-informed observers.
standard. ously in the shopping mall?" dicts acompound annual growth rate Forrester Research estimates the mar-
Because Bluetooth sends very short of over 80 per cent for Bluetooth ship- ket for home and small-office net-
packets and changes frequency rapidly, ments world-wide between 2000 and works will blossom to the tune of $1
packet collisions will occur increas- 2003. billion in sales by 2003, noting that
ingly as communication density Another consultancy, Visiongain, wireless systems and other technolo-
increases. This will lead to decreased forecasts that by 2003 some 70 per gies that have struggled for acceptance
data throughput and noisy audio. To cent of mobile phones sold in Europe in large networks are welcomed by
address these issues, says Rada, it is and North America will have small users, who value flexibility and
likely that the Bluetooth standard will Bluetooth capability, with 400 million simplicity over sheer speed.
need refining several times, involving Bluetooth-enabled devices in service The watchword in the small-office
major effort and investment. by 2005. In turn, Frost & Sullivan pre- and home market is 'no new wires';
The unregulated frequency band that dicts "gargantuan growth" for homeowners are reluctant to drill holes
Bluetooth shares with HomeRF and Bluetooth-based devices and technol- through walls and landlords probably
Ericsson's many other radio devices may create ogy, forecasting sales of $36.7 million forbid it. Bright-blue data network
Bluetooth problems for Bluetooth. Not all devices in 2000 and $699.2 million by 2006. cable is easily concealed below the
evaluation kit. on this band operate at equal power Where HiperLAN/2 and HomeRF floors of modern office blocks but it's
far less acceptable snaking around
skirting boards and doorways.

Money talks
The final decision comes down to
cash, however. Wireless connectivity
will catch on only if the price is right
and for this the cost of the necessary
semiconductors will be the key deter-
minant.
At last year's Wireless Symposium
in San Jose, California, the manufac-
turer Harris Corporation claimed its
Prism II chip set would bring down the
materials cost of a 2.4GHz network
card to $70, while Benno Ritter, com-
munications product marketing man-
ager with Philips Semiconductors, stat-
ed that to be successful, HomeRF
radio ICs would need to be priced
under $10.
With games manufacturers clamour-
ing for a $3 'HomeRF-Lite' chip to
incorporate in smart toys, the pressure
is now definitely on to make wireless
networking affordable. •

610 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 PIC Basic PIC Micro CD-ROM
over 1.2Gb of info £10 inc P&P and VAT
Write your PIC programs in BASIC! -No STAMP REQUIRED!
Packed with information, data sheets, application notes, programs
* PIC Basic -£49.95 diagrams and tutorials. Includes TETRIS and PING PONG with
C.. •,nbler. PIC BASIC is a true compiler providing faster sound and video out of a single PIC 16F84. Basic language
!flan BASIC stamp interpreters, built in I2C routines
and serial comms upto 115K Baud and full BASIC STAMP compatibility make writing for assembly routines and macros for hundreds of commands. Data
the Microchip PlCmicro's easy! PIC BASIC compiles your basic language programs to sheets on thousands of devices, micro's, memory and support chips.
Microchip Hex format for use with In-circuit emualtors or for programming directly into the

t=
PIC CHIP Supports PIC12C67x. PIC14Cxxx. PIC16C55x. 6xx. &xx.84. 92xand 16F87x
Full documentation with syntax examples are provided in the 168 page user manual A

LCD DISPLAYS
technical support mailing list is provided for life time support

• fflilomémIM-g.lAfèl%
The PIC BASIC Pro compiler instruction set is compatible with the Basic Stamp li
providing additional functionality over PIC BASIC. feature like LCD read Write, fully
16x2 line super twist displays -£7.50 ea
customisable Serial in / out (Create a serial LCD display driver in miniutes) Full de-bug
factlittes, compile with debug to produce assembly commented with your Basic commands

Xtals and Resonators

PIC BASIC and PIC BASIC PRO compile tight efficient code without the use of a basic
interpreter Supplied with a 168Page manual explaining each command and worked examples
FREE PIC Macro compiler. FREE Programmers File Editor, FREE Windows Front End
PIC BASIC PRO Includes samples programs and code to support Smart card read8wnte

Download the full 168 page PIC BASIC MANUAL and sample programs 4Mhz and 20Mhz from 45p
http://www.picbasic.co.uk
Order Online via our secure server
http://www.crownhill.co.uk
• Low cost programmer for PIC I2Cxxx. PIC12CExxx PIC14Cxxx PIC16C505. 55e. 6e.
7xx.154, 9xxPIC 16CE62x and PIC16F87x
• ZIF adaptors are available for 8/18 in 40/28Pin OIL. 8.18 and 28 SOIC. 44 Pin MOFP.
PIC16x84 programmer Kit
44 and 68 Pin PLCC
• Powered by 2s 9V batteries or AC adapter. WINDOWS Driver -£15.00 inc PaP VAT
• Connects to PC parallel Pon Programs the popular PIC1684 and 24 series serial memory devices.
• Upgradabie software is supplied for future PIC Micro's
• FREE 8051 style PIC Macro compiler Connects to the serial port of PC unto pentium loot P2 or P3) and requires
NO External power supply. The KIT includes Diagram. layout. High Quality PCB

ir-
Jee
When purchased c"""::
and all componenets, software on 3.5 - FD

with_L'LÇ BASIC
SMARTCARD DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM
Parallel port extension cable -£5.95 ,'• -
40Pin ZIF socket -£22.50 ead and Viritedata on

8/18Pin ZIF Socket -£22.50 Moosoft PCSC petit ! L

'
Rn
Pacts? Itudes,
PICS Prototype hoard -£4.50
Prciessoa card Reader 1
Milsr ehipOrSe Mac.
PIC18 Prototype board -£5.50
ASSed She Cards pais),
PIC64 Prototype board -£8.50 M >male aotsct le er19175%

SapiesciscurceccenVB3,4,546, Cmd
bricks Aaos to Read and Write ro Srraft Cart and GSM orls
.. .

PIC Real-time Imulatoe Www.towitoko.co.uk

anti Programmer -ieeie IMF

PIC 16F871 In Circ etabProg 48LV

¡Mir lottited Programmer 43. -- Low Cost -High Performance
Intelligent Universal Device Programmer

:For PIC16F87X [emulates most PIC16C6X/7X devices)

:In-Circuit run time debugging
:Real Time corle execution 32Khz to 20Mhz real time operation
High Speed Parallel port interlace
Includes:
Connection cable
e Plugs into parallel port of your PC
Adaptors tor TSOP, PSOP, QFP, SOIC, PECC
True No Adapter Programming upio 48 Pins
:2.5V to 6.8 operating range Diagnostic POD Programs and Verifies 2.2.7,3.3.3 &5V devices
:Built in device programmer User Manual
:Run. Step, Run to Cursor etc CE certified FREE software updates 3Year Warranty
;Conditional Animation Break PC Sotware Driver
..Sottware animation trace captures 3user defined variables 240VAC/12V adaptor
in addition to auntie. *Status. FSR
registers and corresponding instructions. PreProm UNIVERSAL Worn Programmer
;Source Level and symbolic debugging Universal Serial EEprom programmer Adaptors for TSOP PSOP OFP SOIC PECC
:Runs under PICICD IDE win95/98 or NT) or MPLAB

*
Adaptors for Piticroprocesors

,.g49,s
:Supplied with ICO debug module. Prote hoard.
Adaptors for Eeprom
40Pin and 28Pin emulator headers.
Cables IDE software and user guide Emulator adator e *bk.
13z 00
olMi• OM keen to VATS 17f

M ICROCHIP
PIC 16184 /114o -£1.90 PIC 12C508A -£0.63
PIC
PIC
16184 /04so -£2.00
16184 /10o -£3.95
PIC 12C509A -£0.63
24LC16 -£0.75
Crownhill Associates Limited
PIC 16C622 /04o -£2.50 241016 so -£0.95 32 Broad Street Ely Cambridge Cb7 4PW
PIC 161877 /0413- £5.50 24LC32 -£1.50
PIC 161877 /200 -£6.00 VISA Tel: 01353 666709 Fax: 01353 666710
241.064 -£1.50
PIC 161876 /048 -£4.50 241.065 -£1.50
PIC
PIC
161874 /048 -£4.50
161873 /04o -£4.50
ORDER ON-LINE www.crownhill.co.uk
CIRCLE NO. 110 ON REPLY CARD
 Ian Hickman presents a further simple circuit for undergraduates -
or anyone -to build, trouble shoot and test. In addition to being
educational, the finished item is useful piece of test gear for
measuring the small-signal AC current gain of n-p-n or p-n-p
transistors.

.1
. his month's project depends on a amp, although aTL08 I, described in pass 1mA of collector current. This
useful and important technique, last month's 'Beginners comer', would causes aIV drop across R2.
which may not have been specif- be equally suitable. The op-amp, a If the collector supply voltage were
ically pointed out on many electronics- ceramic sounder, acouple of switches +10V - it isn't, but just imagine, to
based courses. This is the separation of plus afew passive components are all make the sums easier -then due to R3
DC and AC characteristics. that is required -apart of course from a and 124, the voltage at the op-amp's
The two can be separated not only couple of batteries to power the circuit, non-inverting input would be +4.5V,
conceptually, but also in practice - to and abox to hold it all together. equal to the reference voltage at its
the point where the circuit operation at inverting 'I' input: this is the first of
DC is completely the reverse of the AC How it works many approximations involved in the
behaviour, as will appear in what fol- The circuit implements two feedback design.
lows. loops, one positive and one negative. Ideally, R8 pulls the reference voltage
There is feedback from the output of down from avalue of one half of the
The circuit the op-amp back to its non-inverting supply voltage, by just the right amount
The diagram shows the complete cir- input, via the transistor under test. As to allow for the IV drop across R2. But
cuit of the hf,tester, built around asin- the transistor is connected in the invert- resistor tolerances mean that the cur-
gle op-amp. Like all practical elec- ing common-emitter configuration, this rent forced through R2 may have to
tronic circuits, its design revolves actually constitutes anegative-feedback depart slightly from I mA to equalise
around a number of approximations, loop. the voltages at the op-amp's inverting
which will be duly pointed out. Resistor chain R6, R7, R8 establishes and non-inverting inputs. In fact, those
Originally, the circuit appeared in a reference voltage at the op-amp's voltages will not be exactly equal,
Chapter II, 'Tricks of the trade, of inverting input. This is pin 2, and is since a tiny difference is required to
Analog Electronics' I, although it -and marked 'I'. drive the op-amp's output to the appro-
indeed the whole chapter -are omitted The effect of the negative feedback is priate voltage to close the loop.
from the current edition. to force just enough base current into
In the original, Iused aTL071 op- the transistor under test to cause it to A sea of approximations
Furthermore, this small differential
input voltage may itself be small com-
The benefits of double checking pared with the op-amp's input offset
Benefits of checking everything twice are many, including the avoid- voltage -asea of approximations, all
ance of ared face -from which Iam currently suffering. You may of which are insignificant in practical
engineering terms.
have noticed an error in Fig. 2of last month's 'Beginners' corner', for
Note that the negative-feedback loop
which Ihumbly apologise. includes the whole open-loop gain of
The text correctly describes pin 2 as connected to pin 6, whereas the op-amp, plus half -due to R3 and
the diagram shows it connected to pin 7 instead. Idrew Fig. 2 last R4 - of the voltage gain of the transis-

year and it was duly used at the time by the student members of tor being tested. Loop stability is
ensured by rolling off the loop gain at a
Portsmouth University's RF Club. They all got the project up and
low frequency, by the presence of C2.
running. So without thinking, Ireused the drawing in 'Beginners' Output of op-amp will sit at the DC
corner' voltage needed to force the required
Thinking back though, Inow dimly remember having to write up a base current into the transistor being
correction on the whiteboard: fortunately Ihad acopy of the LM555 tested, about +5.6V in the case of a
device with aDC gain hFE of 20 -less
data sheet with me.
for higher gain devices.
The moral: double checking is always advisable -you can't expect Having dealt with the DC conditions,
the editor to act as longstop for your own gaffs! it is time to look at the AC conditions.
There is feedback from the output of
the op-amp, via the transistor being

612 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 ANALOGUE DESIGN

SI NPN
v o— +9V
0— -9V
PNP S2a
R6 C3 100p
1M +9V

100n
C4
B1
Cl R5 R9 470k
R2 PP3
I1----"VVV‘,--• 220n
1k +9V
47k 7
In

R3 Ceramic This hie tester

sounder indicates the AC
TU T 1M 4
-9V C5 current gain of a
B2
PP3
transistor at the
R4 R7 $ R8
220n point where a
R1 1M 1M 5 3M9
100k tone is just
•
audible.
9V
S2b

tested, to the inverting input via C1and keeping the same ratio, will change the and before fitting R3.
R5.Around this loop, both the op-amp tone frequency, if the 3.2kHz given by The setting where the pointer indi-
and the transistor being tested are the values shown is not optimum for cates maximum resistance should be
inverting, so the feedback is in fact the sounder used. marked '20'. The 50% resistance set-
positive. If the h
ie of the transistor under test ting corresponds to an h i., of 40, 10%

If C1were short circuit and C2 open, is 40, then the circuit will just oscillate to 200 and so on.
this would upset the DC conditions. when the wiper is set half way, and so With the circuitry completed, a
But imagine for the moment that it on. A pointer knob fitted to R2 can known good n-p-n transistor fitted and
doesn't. Then the voltage gain from thus indicate the tested transistor's hie S1in the n-p-n position, check that the
the wiper of R2 to the op-amp output directly, against ascale marked on the op-amp output is between about +0.7V
would be x10. Now reinstate C1 and panel of the instrument. and +5.6V.
consider the frequency jHz —at around If all is well, CI can be added, and
3.3kHz — where its reactance equals Now make it... on adjusting R2,the result should be
471c.Q. The instrument can conveniently be silence fully anticlockwise, with tone
The combined impedance of Ci and built up in asmall plastic instrument starting to appear at some point as the
R5 is now greater by afactor of . %12, so case. The front panel will carry the setting is advanced.
the gain would now be x7.07. Add C3 knob for R2,with its associated scale, The correct indication is the setting
back in, and at jHz, the feedback together with switches S1and S2,and a at which tone first starts to appear.
impedance falls by another factor of 105 or T018 transistor socket. The This corresponds to the small signal
At this point, the gain at jHz is just sounder can be mounted on the front current gain. At larger amplitudes, the
x5. panel, or one of the sides, as most con- transistor's AC gain falls slightly, so a
venient. further advance of R2 is necessary if
Small changes Alternatively, with goods nowadays the amplitude is to increase.
Now another approximation. Small so commonly supplied in disposable
changes in base current will produce plastic containers, one of these can be Points worth noting
negligible changes in the base-emitter pressed into service. If a two-pole As mentioned earlier, this circuit —like
voltage, or Vbe ,of the transistor being biased toggle switch or push button is any other — will be affected to some
tested, so avoltage change 81,of IV at used for S2,there is no danger of the extent by component tolerances.
the op-amp's output will produce a batteries becoming exhausted due to Metal-oxide or metal-film resistors
change of base current SI,, of 1011A. the instrument accidentally being left with 2% tolerance or better still 1% are
If the alternating current gain h ie of switched on. preferable.
the transistor being tested is 20, there Note that while the transistor being The exact values of the capacitors
will be a 8Vc.across R2 of 200mV. tested shown in the diagram is an n-p- are unimportant, but the value of C1
Given the gain of the op-amp at fHz of ndevice, the instrument is equally at should be close to exactly 10 times
x5, this will produce avoltage change home measuring the h f, of p-n-p that of C3.
at the op-amp's output of IV, if the devices, with Si appropriately set, of The tolerance on R2 is likely to be
wiper of R2 is set fully clockwise, to course. worse than on the other resistors, but
the collector end of its travel. Thus the the circuit should still be accurate, if
circuit will just oscillate —as will be ...and get it working the value of RI is adjusted to be 100
apparent from the tone emitted by the Commissioning the circuit should not times that of R2.
ceramic sounder. be difficult, though C1can be omitted
The sounder Iused was salvaged initially. The first step is to calibrate Reference
from a defunct smoke alarm by the R2.This can be done with an ohm I. Hickman, I, 'Analog Electronics,
way. Scaling the value of C1 and C3, meter, with the test transistor absent Heinemann-Newnes. 1st Ed. 1990.

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 613

Exclusive Electronics World reader offer
Save 32% on Electronic Design Studio with PolyBlend Module
Electronic Design Studio —EDS for short —is anew fully integrated
modular CAD system with schematic, simulation, PCB, autorouting ana.
CADCAM modules as standard.
The powerful new PolyBlend module offers state of the art polygon
blending and includes anew set of tools for combining and welding
polygons as well as facilities to remove areas or place holes in existing
polygons. The PolyBlend module also includes our new automatic
copper pour 'zones', great for complex PCBs requiring fast, accurate
copper pour.
Until 1October 2000, you can buy EDS plus our new PolyBlend
module for just £245.58 inclusive —asaving of over 32% on our regular
price of £363.08. Price includes postage, packing and VAT.
Post the coupon below to Quickroute Systems Ltd, Regent House,
Heaton Lane, Stockport SK4 1BS, tel 0161 476 0202, fax 0161 476 050
e-mail infoequicksys.demon.co.uk
Electronic Design Studio
The latest 'Look 2000' look and feel with fully customisable
toolbars.
Precision designs up to 2m by 2m with support for up to 32
layers at aresolution of 1pm.
Project manager organises your schematic, PCB, netlist and other
documents for instant access.
Netlist navigator lets you jump to any symbol or pin on any
QUICKROUTE schematic or PCB instantly.
Wizards including ProjectWizard, SymbolWizard and
SYSTEMS CADCAMWizard automate key processes.
Brings the power of desktop publishing to EDA with enhanced
support for TrueType fonts, even on PCB designs. Gerber too!
Coupon Feature rich publication-quality schematic designs with design
Please send me EDS complete with the PolyBlend Module. styles to instantly change the appearance of your designs.
Superb quality CADCAM output including Gerber R-274X, R-
274D and ExcelIon support
Fill in your name and address and post this coupon together Integrated 1-32 layer poly-algorithmic autorouter with support
with acheque for £245.58 payable to Quickroute Systems for any track width.
Ltd, or fill in your credit card details and sign the coupon. In situ editing of symbols on both schematic and PCB
documents.
Simple integrated simulator module.
Name Import netlists from third party products including TINA Pro 5.5
Import Quickroute 3.x, and 4.x schematic and PCB data.
Address No pin limits!
Unlimited Undo and Redo support.
Additional modules available to tailor the package to suit you.
Postcode Supplied on CD with full printed manual.

Telephone PolyBlend Module

Fast and accurate state of the art polygon blending algorithmns
Method of payment (please circle) work at accuracies down to 1nm.
Turn any EDS graphic object -including text, symbols, circles,
Access/Mastercard/Visa/Cheque/PO
ellipses, tracks, etc -into apolygon automatically.
Two or more polygons can be selected and combined or welded
Credit card no to form one polygon.
Remove areas or place holes in apolygon using the 'subtract'
Card expiry date tool.
Fully automatic copper pour system using copper zones.
Signed Copper zones of any shape can be placed on aPCB. Islands of a
selected size will then be generated automatically for any
Mail to Quickroute Systems Ltd, Regent House, Heaton objects placed inside the zone. Supports even the most
complex PCB designs.
Lane, Stockport SK4 1BS. Tel 0161 476 0202, e-mail
Objects placed in azone can be moved, edited or deleted and
[email protected] the zone will be updated as required.
Zones can be converted to polygons for further detailed editing
or combining with other polygons/zones as required.

Take a look at our web site for more details: www.quickroute.co.uk

 ELECTRONICS
Subscribe for 3 years, pay for just 2 Y1.91.zi-P
 ro w
pig
y‘%, ELECTRONICS WORLD a4tiei.ij:/b111

Three waysio pay

Please enter my subscription for one of the
following terms. When Isubscribe for three 1Ienclose acheque for £ made payable to Electronics World.

years, Ipay the price for just two years. Please charge my Visa/Mastercard/American Express/Diners
Club/Switch/Delta (please delete as appropriate)
(Switch/Doha only)
UK Europe Rest of World Card Number
3years (36 issues) £72 £103 £123 'Il
(SwitchlDelto only)
El C36 E f61
1year (12 issues) £51
Expiry date ' _JL Valid from iIl Issue no

Signed Date
In every is
IP Detailed circuit diagrams Please invoice me/my company. Purchase Order No.
New product news Name

Informative design-oriented explanations Job Title

CAE software Company

Address

Tel. No. Fax No.

If you're not completely satisfied with Electronics World within E-mail address
the first 60 days we'll refund your money in full -no questions Company VAT registration number
asked.
Return your completed form to:
Electronics World Subscriptions, FREEPOST RCC 2619,
PO Box 302, HAY WARDS HEATH, UK, RHI6 3BR
Please allow 28 days for delivery of your first issue.
Fax +44 (0)1444 445447 E-mail: [email protected]

Please tick here dyou do not wish to receive direct marketing promotions from other
relevant companies
Tel: +44 (0)1444 475662
•
II I ;I
The definitive biography of the
century's godfather of invention-from
the pre-eminent Edison scholar "Israel's
meticulous research and refusal to shy
away from the dodgier aspects of
Edison's personality offers a fresh
glimpse into the life of the inventor."-
New Scientist

"Remarkable."- Nature

"An authoritative look into Edison's

working methods, here leavened by
enough personal detail to give the
achievements shape."-Publishers
Weekly

"Israel's book should go a long way

toward taking Edison out of the
shadows and placing him in the proper
light."-Atlanta Journal-Constitution

"Exhaustively researched, with strong

Post your completed order form to:-
emphasis on Edison's methods and
Jackie Lowe, Room L514, Quadrant House,
achievements."-Kirkus Reviews
The Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey, SM2 5AS

The conventional story of Thomas Fax your completed order form to 020 8652 8111
UK Price: £15.00 Europe £17.00 ROW £19.00
Edison reads more like myth than
Price includes delivery
history: With only three months of
formal education, ahardworking young
man overcomes the odds and becomes How to pay
one of the greatest inventors in history. (Edison) paperback

But the portrait that emerges from J I enclose acheque/bank draft for
Edison: A Life of Invention reveals a (payable to Reed Business Information)
man of genius and astonishing foresight Please charge my credit/charge card
whose career was actually aproduct of J Mastercard J American Express J Visa J Diners Club
his fast-changing era. In this peerless Credit Card No: Expirey Date:
biography, Paul Israel exposes for the
first time the man behind the inventions,
Signature of Cardholder
expertly situating his subject within a
thoroughly realized portrait of a Cardholder's statement address (please use capitals)

burgeoning country on the brink of Name

massive change. Informed by Israel's
Address
unprecedented access to workshop
diaries, notebooks, letters, and more
than five million pages of archives, this
definitive biography brings fresh
insights to asingularly influential and Post Code Tel:

triumphant career in science.

 Miamtà.

IDEAS
Fact: most circuit ideas sent to
Electronics World get published
The best circuit ideas are ones that save time or money, or stimulate the thought process. This includes
the odd solution looking for aproblem -provided it has adegree of ingenuity.
Your submissions are judged mainly on their originality and usefulness. Interesting modifications to
existing circuits are strong contenders too -provided that you clearly acknowledge the circuit you have
modified. Never send us anything that you believe has been published before though.
Don't forget to say why you think your idea is worthy.
Clear hand-written notes on paper are aminimum requirement: disks with separate drawing and text
files in apopular form are best -but please label the disk clearly.

Protection against turn-on

voltage transients in 48V systems
Intelecommunication systems, a other voltage within the range. when alogic high appears at its input.
Ibattery with anominal value of 48V The circuit consists of aRC In this circuit, /C, is used as a
is used to generate lower voltages network chosen to give adelay time voltage converter to step up logic
such as the SV, I2V and —12V of about 20ms, which is sufficient output to about 9V required to drive
required for electronic circuits in time to allow voltage transients to the MOSFET into full conduction.
electronic switching systems using decay. The 470nF capacitor is Application of +5V to the logic
dc-to-dc converters. charged through resistor R from the circuits is thus delayed by about
The output from such adc-to-dc regulated SV output from the dc-to- 20ms during turn-on, which allows
converter generally has very short dc converter. time for the voltage level to settle
duration voltage spikes at the instant Initially, the capacitor is uncharged down and transients to decay.
of turn-on. Filters cannot kill these and the input of inverter 7404 is low, The MOSFET's drain connects to
spikes, which may cause sensitive making its outpiit high. It also makes the unregulated voltage output of the
electronic components to the output of the transmitter of the dc-to-dc converter, from which the
malfunction —or even fail. This inverting RS232 transceiver /C, low. +5V is derived. Its source terminal of
circuit provides the necessary This keeps diode D off and the the connects to the input of the +5V
protection to sensitive electronic MOSFET switch off too. voltage regulator.
The winner of components. When the voltage across the Unregulated voltage appears at the
the fourth The design consists of asoft-start capacitor reaches the high-level input input of the voltage regulator only
National circuit that allows the +5V DC threshold level of the inverter / CI,a when the MOSFET is on. The output
Instruments voltage to be applied to the load 7404 logic gate, the output of the of the regulator supplies +5V to the
circuit after adelay of about 20ms so inverter goes low. This makes the load circuits.
prize, to be
that turn-on transients decay before output of the RS232 transmitter high, Using such an RS232 transceiver to
selected from the DC supply voltage reaches the turning diode D on and enabling drive the MOSFET avoids the need
the July and load circuit. conduction of the MOSFET. for acustom MOSFET driver or a
August issues, You need to connect the protection The MAX233's high level output is step-up converter circuit to boost the
will be circuit at the output of the +5V about 9V, which is enough to turn the +5V voltage to ahigher voltage
supply, where it is fed to the load MOSFET fully on to conduct the load needed to turn the MOSFET fully on.
announced
circuits. The circuit shown is for +5V current. Diode D protects the V Lakshminarayanan
next month. logic supply but similar circuits can MOSFET gate from the negative Bangalore
be designed for + I2V, —I2V, or any voltage output of —9V of MAX233 India C84

(C84)

Vcc 11
7805
C2+^-1
48Vdc DC-to-DC MAX233
T 10n R C2+-1
Input converter 330
1/6 7404 15
Tr/7
42k
Tx in Tx ou
18
ICI 12 1
470n v- C2-
IC2

Circuit to prevent switch-on transients

reaching load circuitry.
IRF523
IC3
E
17
v-
Gnd
C2-
Gnd 16
D 6 9
1N914 7805 • +5V to load
circuits

10n

616 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 National Instruments sponsors Circuit Ideas
National Instruments is awarding
over £3500 worth of equipment
for the best circuit ideas.
Once every two months throughout 2000,
National Instruments is awarding an
NI4050 digital multimeter worth over
£500 each for the best circuit idea
published over each two-month period. At
the end of the 12 months, National is
awarding aLabVIEW package worth over
£700 to the best circuit idea of the year.*

About National Instruments

NI4050
National Instruments offers hundreds of software and
hardware products for data acquisition and control, data The NI 4050 is afull-feature digital multimeter (DMM) for hand-held and
analysis, and presentation. By utilising industry-standard notebook computers with aType II PC Card (PCMCIA) slot. The NI 4050
computers, our virtual instrument products empower users in a features accurate 51/
2 digit DC voltage, true-rms AC voltage, and resistance
wide variety of industries to easily automate their test, (ohms) measurements. Its size, weight, and low power consumption make it
measurement, and industrial processes at afraction of the cost
ideal for portable measurements and data logging with hand-held and notebook
of traditional approaches.
computen.
Software
Our company is best known for our innovative software • DC Measurements: 20mV to 250V DC; 20mA to 10A
products. The National Instruments charter is to offer a • AC Measurements: 20mV rrns to 250V rms; 20mA rrns to 10A rms;
software solution for every application, ranging from very
• True rms, 20Hz to 25kHz
simple to very sophisticated. We also span the needs of users,
from advanced research to development, production, and • Up to 60 readings/s
service. Our flagship LabVIEW product, with its • UL Listed
revolutionary, patented graphical programming technology, • 51/
2 Digit Multimeter for PCMCIA
continues to be an industry leader. Additional software
products, such as LabWindows/CVI, Component Works,
Lab VIEW
Measure and VirtualBench, are chosen by users who prefer C
programming, Visual Basic, Excel spreadsheets, and no LabVIEW is ahighly
programming at all, respectively. productive graphical
programming environment
Hardware that combines easy-to-use
Our software products are complemented by our broad
graphical development with
selection of hardware to corinect computers to real-world
signals and devices. We manufacture data acquisition the flexibility of apowerful
hardware for portable, notebook, desktop, and industrial programming language. It
computers. These products, when combined with our offers an intuitive
software, can directly replace awide variety of traditional environment, tightly
instruments at afraction of the cost. In 1996 we expanded our
integrated with measurement
high-performance E Series product line in PCI, ISA and
PCMCIA form factors, shipped our first VXI data acquisition hardware, for engineers and
products, and added remote (long-distance) capabilities to our scientists to quickly produce
SCXI signal conditioning and data acquisition product line. solutions for data acquisition,
Our virtual instrumentation vision keeps us at the forefront
data analysis, and data
of computer and instrumentation technology. National
presentation.
Instruments staff works actively with industry to promote
international technological standards such as IEEE 488,
PCMCIA, PCI, VXI plug&play, Windows 95/NT, and the • Graphical programming development environment
Internet. More importantly, we integrate these technologies • Rapid application development
into innovative new products for our users.
• Seamless integration with DAQ, GPIS, RS -232, and VXI
•All published circuit ideas that ore not eligible for the prizes detailed here • Full, open network connectivity
will earn their authors ominimum of £35 and up to £100. • Built-in display and file 110

National Instruments —computer-based measurement and automation

\ational Instruments, 21 Kingfisher Court, Hamhridge Road, Newbury, Berkshire, R61-1 ;SI. (01635 523545), Fax (01635) 524395
inio.ukc" ni. corn www.ni.com.

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 617

 CIRCUIT IDEAS
From batteries
(D20c) +18V

Measuring
femtofarads on
TL082CP
1/10C x
'Lo'

traditional AC
bridges
needed to check the matching of two
Inominally 1pF capacitors, but all I
Fig. 3. An implementation
had was aMarconi Instruments
of Fig. 2that results in a
TF868B universal bridge having a
OV range of 0-10pF.
lowest capacitance range of 0-100pF.
From batteries
Icould have made atransformer
bridge, but this was not justifiable for the voltage across the standard capaci- buffers —were connected in parallel to
the job in hand, given the extensive tor, since the magnified voltage is in give the peak drive current of around
screening and constructional work phase with the original voltage across 13mA. Individual and differential DC
required. The possibility of using the the capacitor, preserving phase balance offsets, giving inter-amplifier and
AC source and tuned detector in the to the detector, Fig. 2. No modifica- primary DC currents, were <I mV on
TF868B was then considered; ideally tions are needed inside the TF868B. the device used; should this be thought
without any alterations. Bridge resolu- Figure 3shows the first circuit tried; aproblem capacitive coupling from the
tion would have been adequate at 0.1 % to give arange of 0-10pF. The signal outputs to the transformer could be
at the top end of arange. on 'Hi' never exceeded 1.2V pk-pk, so used at the risk of some phase shift;
Figure 1shows the basic bridge an op-amp with again of 10 could be adding series resistance would also give
circuit for capacitance measurements; used when driven from two 9V batter- significant phase shifts.
the earthing of one side of the detector ies in series; batteries were used to Supply current was around IlmA and
allows three-terminal capacitance prevent earth loops and null offsets. the circuit worked well. Nulled 'tan-
measurement to exclude strays. These Op-amp / CIA is abuffer —not strictly delta' setting was non-zero, due to
are either across the detector or across necessary —and R5 protects the TL082 phase shift from op-amp output
C2+R i;so of insignificant effect at null. FET inputs against static build-up when impedance and primary inductance, but
If the voltage across C2+Ri were the circuit is disconnected. asharp capacitive null was obtained.
multiplied by afactor of, say 10, then a Components RI,R2 and C1gave a Output voltage from the transformer
reduction in the unknown capacitor by decoupled reference for the signal to was 5_120V pk-pk and at high
afactor of 10 is needed to preserve swing about, R4 and R3 defining the impedance, but take care to avoid
bridge balance. gain. It worked as expected, giving a electric shock. Hand-capacitance
Amplification only need be applied to sharp null with atest 2.2pF capacitor at effects were very significant and the
the 22pF dial reading. high voltage output of the transformer

£50 Winner
R2 Figure 4 showed the circuit tried to secondary was placed at least 2inches
range
resistor 'Lo' give 0-1pF range —with aresolution of away from the 'Lo' terminal of the
IfF at the top end; stray capacitances bridge. Even so, null readings of over
Fig. 1. Showing Unknown Csi and Cs 2 are shown. Iconsidered a 801F were obtained, but use of a
the basic Detector transformer to be the easiest method for metallic screen between the high-
bridge circuit giving the voltage step-up needed. A voltage terminal and the 'Lo' terminal
for capacitance 'Earth' tightly-coupled toroid transformer was reduced this further. Low battery
measurements. 'Hi found with the characteristics shown — voltage is shown by adrifting null.
and aself-resonant frequency well D. Sweetman
AC source above the IkHz of the bridge source. Surbiton
Two op-amps — used as unity gain Surrey D20
Standard cap.
Balance pot. tan-delta
R3 R1 C2
From batteries
+9V
(D20a)
PE o
'Hi o
R2 Fig. 4. Final circuit with a
range resolution of 1ff at the
Fig. 2. Outline resistor
arrangement to top end of its range and
extend the 1pF full scale.
smallest range
from 100pF
1/100C x
maximum to 10pF

Tcs,
I1-1-0'Ld
maximum.
'Earth' Tcs 2
TL082CP
1:100

R8 7mH:70H
C2
2k7 Primary inductance was
0.6 1
.1F1 with secondary
short-circuited
OV From batteries (D20d)
(D20b)

618 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 CIRCUIT IDEAS

Live-line detector
This is aCMOS-based circuit, using the displayed digits to increment
IaCD4033. that detects the rapidly. Sounder uses telephone
presence of alive mains conductor. When remote from alive line, the earpiece
The count input of the CD4033 is unit stops advancing and displays an
used floating, connected to a5to unchanging digit at random. The 1 — he tone Earpiece (C85)
10cm length of insulated wire, which input, represented on the circuit I sounder shown
acts as the detector probe. by achassis earth symbol, is uses the
If the unit is brought close to alive adequately provided by the user inductance of an
conductor —insulated, and even grasping the case of the instrument in old telephone
buried in plaster —capacitive coupling use. earpiece in the
between the live conductor and the Raj Gorkhali tank circuit of a
probe clocks the counter, and causes E14 Colpitts audio
oscillator. The
(E14)
„i„ audio tone is
radiated from the
I I LT543 The seven-segment display flashes
earpiece. and may
common digits sequentially when the
I I cathode probe is near alive conductor,
be used as an
display audible alarm. etc.
otherwise it displays asingle
7 D M Bridgen
unchanging digit.
Camberley
a d e
C85
10 13 12 911 6 7 16
Sensing
CD4033
probe
(see text) 2 8 14, 15 An earpiece is used both as the sounder and the tank
inductance in this audible tone generator.
100K 100K 100nI

Ten year index: TABLE OF CONTENTS

new u date Apphr atIons

Applications by description
Applications by part numbers
addresses
The Electronics World Softlndei runs from
January 1988 to May 19% and contains
references to 1300 articles and 800 ClICIld ideas
Them is aseparate author index with full cross
Books references Repnnts can be obtained for all the
Hard copies and floppy-disk databases Corc uit Ideas articles in this index see the Information
Information section for more details For up to date
both available Subject Index
Analogue Design
information about Electronics World see our
website at http //me« sotcopy co uk
Audio
Whether as aPC data base or as hard copy, SoftCopy can Anorocs
Broadcast
supply acomplete index of Electronics World articles going back Communications

over the past nine years. Components

Computing
Consumer Electronics
The computerised index of Electronics World magazine covers the Control Electronics
Digital & DSP Design
nine years from 1988 to 1996, volumes 94 to 102 inclusive and History
—
is available now. It contains almost 2000 references to articles.
circuit ideas and applications -including asynopsis for each.

The EW index data base is easy to use and very fast. It runs on
www.softcopy.co.uk
any IBM or compatible PC with 512K ram and ahard disk.
Ordering details
The disk-based index price is still only £20 inclusive. Please
The EW index data base price of £20 includes UK postage
specify whether you need 525m, 3.5in DD or 3.5in HD format. and VAT. Add an extra £1 for overseas EC orders or £5
Existing users can obtain an upgrade for £15 by quoting their for non-EC overseas orders
serial number with their order. Postal charges on hard copy indexes and on photocopies
are 50p UK, £1 for the rest of the EC or £2 worldwide.
Photo copies of Electronics World articles from back For enquires about photocopies etc please send an sae to
issues are available at a flat rate of £3.50 per SoftCopy Ltd Send your orders to SoftCopy Ltd,
article, £1 per circuit idea, excluding postage 1Vineries Close, Cheltenham GL53 ONU.
Cheques payable to SoftCopy Ltd, please allow 28 days
Hard copy Electronics World index for delivery
Indexes on paper for volumes 100,101, and 10 e-mail at [email protected], tel 01242 241455
are available at £2 each, excluding postage.

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD

CIRCUITS IDEAS

74C926 leading-zero blanking

The 74C926 four-digit frequency readily available CMOS logic ICs. the output of the CD4068 and the
counter is versatile, but lacks a The status of zeros and non-zeros 74C926's A, B. C and D multiplexing
leading-zero blanking facility. from the detector output of the (MUX) outputs sequentially.
Figure 1shows the frequency 74C926 were monitored by the CD If the output of the CD4081
counter driving common cathode 4068. Output at pin 13 of the latter is happens to be at zero for A, then the
LEDs. An additional logic circuit was at logic 1or 0for non-zero and zero MSB will blank. The CD4013 D-type
included to suppress leading zeros, as digits respectively. The CD4081 bistable device stores this event. On
shown in Fig. 2, using simple, cheap, performs the AND operation between MUX output B. the CD4071 OR gate
selects blanking or not blanking,
depending on the pin 1output of the
CD4013.
MS B LSB
Irrespective of the B output from
the CD4081, the second digit is
displayed if the output pin 1output of
the 4013 is at logic I. The second
digit is only blanked if the 4013 pin 1
output and CD4081 are both zero.
Here, the CD4013 acts asimple set-
reset bistable device.
Zero The same logic is also applied to
detector MUX output C. At the end of the
X cycle, i.e. after MUX output D, a
narrow pulse of afew microseconds
is generated by the CD4528. This
pulse is applied to the reset pins of
the CD4013.
X
It was necessary to use the CD4066
X for the correct display of the digits.
Leading zero suppression was not
applied to MUX output D.
R B Tripathi
Fig. I. In order to
New Delhi
blank the leading
India El 6
zero of afour- +by
digit frequency
counter based on
4068 Zero
the 74C926, extra 15 1
Is % 13 LEDs
circuitry needs to 17p
1 C
o detector
be inserted to 2 1

modify the drive

4 t- g MSB
signals.
BLANK SL 100
74 C92 6
4081 /2
1 4013
BLANK
A 3 Set
7 6 Reset

1/4 4066
58 lk
8 3 2
8 6 2 5 16
13
4071
Set
8 10 Reset
1 4013

13
Fig. 2. Four-digit 4071 Ve 4066
frequency counter io 10 4
lk
10 • SL 100
with leading zero
L
suppression,
circuit diagram.
D _fL
11 5 6 1/2 4528

LSB lk
SL 100

620 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 CIRCUIT IDEAS

vcc
E. Depends
on LED

\k

This circuit
maintains the
water level
between fixed
limits and safely
auto-restarts after
amains outage.

with the transceiver path length. The signal is voltage variations damaging the motor.
amplified and peak detected by D Iand C1. The delay circuit switches on the motor
220V ac
Diode D2,with R1and R2,compensate for after the time-out period, whatever the water
•
Pump the forward diode drop of D I. level in the tank, unless it is already full.
machine The LM39I4 dot/bar display driver, /C7, Output from decade counter /C5 passes
motor
decodes the amplitude of the signal into one through atransparent latch /C6 and triggers
lElfh of ten digital outputs. Pins 10 and 18 were the monostable.
chosen as the 'on' and 'off' points The high level from the monostable feeds
respectively, but in other installations, /C6.From there, the signal goes to one input
different settings may be required, as of the NAND gate, whose output goes low

Water pump determined experimentally.

At the low level, pin 18 goes low,
immediately after the next clock pulse into
/C5.

control triggering 'on' the monostable, / C2.At the

full level, pin 10 goes low, switching off the
At this stage, /C6 is latched and its outputs
frozen. This disables the clock 1(2 3 and
prevents the state of the NAND gate from
W
used an infra-red sensor to monitor monostable, which thus works like abistable.
water level to prevent wear and tear of We added other circuitry due to frequent changing. This condition persists until
mechanical parts, and to avoid electrolysis power cuts in Nigeria. Timer 1 C3 and counter another mains outage occurs.
due to electrodes, which could affect the /C5 form adelay circuit, which holds the Louis Abraka
purity of the water in the tank. pump off for about five seconds following Lagos
restoration of power. This prevents transient Nigeria F18
Amplitude of the detected signal varies

Ceramic sounder oscillator (

E13) +12V

The common ceramic sounder has adielectric layer between the cop- RI
per backing disc and the top metallisation. Its capacitance Cx is 100k

high — typically lOnF —and this property is used to advantage in the

oscillator shown. • Vo
Op-amp A1acts as atriangle generator, with 12 3 providing the path to CI
charge and discharge C5.Positive feedback via R4 ensures that V, is a
clean square-wave. With the values shown, Cx displays arounded tri- CxI R3
o )5) —mm,--
wave at f=2.5kHz and with peak-to-peak amplitude of 7.5V when the 100n
Tri 100k 1Oni 11k
supply is 12V. This frequency can be altered by changing R3,up to
BC337
f„,„x=1OkHz at resonance. Resistor R3 at 7.51d1 gives anice 3.2kHz. OV
A simple but effective sounding-board for the transducer can be
made by super-gluing it, off-centre, to athin-walled plastic lid, say 8by The pier') ceramic sounder itself acts as the frequency-determining
5by lcm. Power consumption is very low, at less than 1mA at 12V. capacitor in this sounder circuit.
The circuit works down to about 3V, although the frequency falls, and
is safe up to 30V. The result was amixed IkHz+2.5kHz sound.
By adding the n-p-n transistor Tri, the tone is easily modulated. A For general enable/disable purposes, Tri may be part of an open-col-
high signal on R5 quells the oscillation, but a series of pulses can lector TTL gate.
'usurp' the tone. For example, point A was linked to +12V and point B CID Catto
connected to the 0.5V pk-pk I kHz 'cal' signal from an oscilloscope. Cambridge El 3

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 621

 Patrick Mitchell looks at
how the means of,40
controlling a thermionic
valve's emission have
evolved and explains

A history of
what the pros and cons of
having multiple grids are.

W
hile the power efficiency company and began work on radio
of valves is largely deter- transmission and detection. At the time
mined by the performance the weakest link in radio communica-
of the cathode, other important proper- tion was the detector. The devices in
ties depend on the nature and geometry use were the rather unsatisfactory
of the valve's grid, or grids. These coherers, as described in a separate
properties are gain, linearity, distortion, panel entitled 'Coherers'.
band width, and to some extent noise. Fleming realised that considerable
The origin of thermionic valves is improvements in detector performance
usually traced to Edison's 1883 patent could be achieved if ahigh-frequency
for what he called an 'electrical indi- rectifier could be devised. Edison's
cator'. This was the first device to use indicator bulbs were taken out of stor-
current flowing through the space age and tried as RF detectors. The
between a filament and another elec- experiments were successful. After
trode. Edison recognised that this cur- making various changes to optimise RF
rent would flow in one direction only, rectification Fleming filed for patents
but he put this rectifying effect to no in 1904 for his 'oscillation valve'.
use. Although in time therrnionic devices
J. A. Fleming had been appointed as would be used universally as detectors,
scientific advisor to the Edison Electric they were not an immediate success.
Light Company of London in 1882. He Other types of detector such as
became involved in research into the Marconi's magnetic detector patented
blackening of light bulbs with in 1902 remained in use alongside the
vapourised filament carbon —the same diode valve until the end of World War
area that had led Edison to his 1883 I. Rectifying RF signals was one part
patent. of the problem of detection. The very
Some examples of Edison's 'indica- low signal power available from an
tor' bulbs were brought to Fleming in antenna was the another. Truly satis-
the course of this work. He noted their factory radio detection had to await the
rectifying property, but had no imme- development of electronic amplifica-
diate application for it. The bulbs were tion.
to remain forgotten for several years. It was the development of ameans of
In 1899 Fleming was appointed tech- controlling the magnitude of the 'space
nical advisor to Marconi's wireless current' that enabled valves to amplify.

ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 HISTORY

This control mechanism was responsi-

ble for their transition from esoteric
scientific instruments to valuable engi-
neering components.
The well known grid was one of sev-
eral means of achieving control that
were experimented with. All methods
shared the same principle: to control
the field strength in the immediate
vicinity of the valve cathode. If this
could be achieved without introducing
any additional currents then so much
the better, but in reality it never was
and never has been.
Lee de Forest is remembered as the
man who put the grid into the diode
valve. After receiving aPhD from Yale
in 1899 on the reflection of electro- Fig. 1. The triode.
Diagram a) is across
magnetic waves, de Forest — like
Fleming on the other side of the section of the electrode
Atlantic —began work on radio. He had assembly of asmall-
noticed that gas lights in his laboratory signal triode. Diagram
flickered in response to electromag- b) is acircuit symbol
netic waves generated by sparks. commonly used for the
Having observed the flickering gas triode and in c), a
lights, de Forest spent several years triode wired as abasic
experimenting with hybrid devices common cathode
involving Bunsen burner flames and amplifier.
thermionic tubes in an attempt to find a
better radio detector. This was to be a
blind alley, but his involvement with
research into detectors led him to The name grid stuck. He ordered Temperamental triodes
acquire, and experiment with, several some bulbs to this specification from Early triodes were temperamental, var-
Fleming valves. McCandless which were delivered on ied widely in characteristics from one
25 November 1906. At the time, de example to another and had limited
Early grids Forest was beset with legal and finan- life. These problems were investigated
In connection with this work de Forest cial troubles stemming from patent and gradually solved by engineers and
had a New York lamp manufacturer law. Because of this, he did not test the manufacturers.
called McCandless make copies of new bulbs until 31 Deèember. The tests The main difficulties were the gen-
Fleming valves. Some had extra elec- showed that definite amplification was eration and maintenance of ahigh vac-
trodes of various configurations. possible. uum, and the production of durable fil-
Several US patents followed from A patent followed on 29 January, ament cathodes. Being afairly simple
this work, one of which, in October 1907. De Forest's 'Audion' was not, structure operating at lower tempera-
1906, was for his first three electrode however, the first amplifying valve. tures than the cathode, the grid posed
'Audion'. This involved a type of European workers had been experi- fewer problems and so changed little in
Fleming diode with parallel plates on menting with the cathode-ray tube, the early years.
either side of the filament, connected described in a separate panel entitled Mechanical strength, ease of manu-
together as the anode to maximise 'Cathode-ray amplifiers'. facture and reproducibility led to the
'space-current capture'.
Wires to these two plates were
brought out separately. One was con-
Coherers
nected to an antenna and the other to a
detector. De Forest claimed that this Coherers are temperamental electromechanical devices that work by arranging for a
arrangement was capable of amplifica- conduction path to be established by an RF signal which is then used to conduct DC.
tion, which is doubtful, but he recog- Marconi's version consisted of fine nickel and silver filings contained in apartial vacuum
nised that the current to one plate could between two electrodes. The resistance between the electrodes is largely determined by the
be controlled by the voltage on the number and nature of inter-filing contact points and drops markedly if an RF signal is
other. applied between the ends.
De Forest reasoned that the perfor- The coherer does not reset itself and needs to be struck to shake the filings loose again. A
mance of the device might be relay could be connected and would close in the presence of asignal allowing for the
improved if the third electrode was reception of telegraphy.
placed between the filament and the Others coherers were used for telephony. One example is the Lodge Muirhead type
anode. He realised that if asolid sheet which consisted of abowl of mercury covered in athin film of oil. A rotating sharp-edged
were used it would largely block the iron disc was lowered into the mercury to almost —but not quite — break the oil layer. The
current flow to the anode, so instead he RF signal would break the layer and allow conduction. Unlike the filings-based coherer,
specified a piece of wire bent in the this device was self resetting.
shape of agrid iron.

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 623

HISTORY

abandonment of the unsupported bent needed to produce the necessary ahigh impedance circuit, asmall cur-
wire arrangement and the adoption of fields. rent of electrons away from it can
ladder type grids, but it was not until This modification had the happy cause a significant potential rise,
other problems had been ameliorated side effect of increasing the distance attracting more electron bombard-
— if not solved — that the electrical between the anode and grid and hence ment and further heating and
properties of the grid began to limit reducing the anode-to-grid capaci- thermionic emission leading to ther-
valve performance. tance, which when amplified by the mal runaway.
In the years leading up to World stage gain appears as Miller capaci- Suppression of grid emissions
War I, the development of the valve tance. The down side was increased depends on choice of surface coating,
became mired in patent law. This was grid heating and contamination with geometry and voltage. It is eased by
responsible for stagnation of the tech- cathode atoms, leading to thermionic increasing the grid-to-cathode spacing
nology and financial troubles for the emission. and by using finer grid wires. Holding
innovators and producers. As usual, Suppressing emission current was to the grid at a negative potential rela-
the only winners were the lawyers. be a central theme in grid develop- tive to the cathode also helps. In most
Patents were suspended to allow ment. This is the exact opposite of valves, grid current approximates to
development of military communica- what is required for cathodes. zero when the grid voltage is more
tions equipment to go ahead unhin- Incidentally, Langmuir was also than IV below cathode voltage.
dered during the war. But the prob- responsible for noticing the potential
lem recurred thereafter and the need of, and perfecting, the thoriated tung- Grid coatings
to avoid patent infringement prompt- sten cathode. Numerous coatings were tried to
ed many novel arrangements — Several factors conspire to cause increase the grid's effectiveness and
though few technical improvements. grid emissions. The control grid is defeat the thermionic effect of con-
The development of the grid and its located near to the hot cathode to densed cathode atoms. Graphite was
geometry was dictated by three prin- improve gain. This means that it is one of the first coatings to be used.
ciple technical limitations: secondary inclined to absorb vapourised con- Although effective, it is fragile and
emissions, microphony, and capaci- stituents of the cathode —particularly deteriorates with time.
tive feedback — the Miller effect. as they are liable to be positively In 1930, it was discovered that gold
Once the problems of consistency, charged heavy ions and the grid is plating was particularly effective at
reliability and life span had been usually more negative than the cath- suppressing grid emission in valves
addressed, the impetus was to ode. Deposits of Ba, Ba0 2,and Th on using an oxide coated cathode. This
increase the gain and raise the maxi- grids caused by cathode evaporation came to be the commonest method
mum operating frequency of valves. increase their thermionic emissions. used. A layer 1pm thick is needed for
General Electric appointed Dr Another effect of the close proximi- effective suppression.
Irving Langmuir as an engineer in ty to the cathode is that the grid gets Gold coating is very effective at
1909. He was to prove a valuable hot. stopping thermionic emission but
asset. GE had developed a high places a considerable constraint on
power 200kHz alternator for radio Unwanted emissions grid temperature as gold evaporation
transmission but had no means of Secondary emission is the emission of from the grid will poison the cathode.
modulating its output. Langmuir electrons from a surface induced by Thoriated tungsten cathodes operate
thought that the triode might be high energy electrons striking it. The and higher temperatures than oxide
adapted to make such a modulator secondarily emitted current may coated so platinum —also an effective
and began apainstaking study of its exceed the incident current —an effect emission suppressor but without the
electrical characteristics. that is exploited in photomultipliers. tendency to evaporate and poison the
Several key improvements were to Electrons emitted from the cathode cathode — is used.
emerge from his work. An increase in have a range of energies, a few of
gain by moving the grid closer to the them having enough to cause sec- Grid geometry
cathode was the first improvement. ondary emission when they strike the For the grid's field to be fairly uni-
Cathode current depends on the field grid. The bombardment of the grid by form at the cathode surface, the grid
strength immediately adjacent to the high energy electrons also heats it, wires should be numerous and fairly
cathode. The closer the grid is to the exacerbating thermionic emission. distant from the cathode.
cathode the lower the grid voltages As the grid is usually connected in Considerations of gain and emissions
dictate otherwise.
In the event, many small-signal
Cathode-ray amplifiers
11111111111111 valves, such as the triode Western
Electric 417A in Fig. 1, use uneven
grid fields at the cathode. In this case
In 1905, von Lieben constructed acathode-ray tube with an electrode as the target. The
the wires of the grid are 7.4pm in
cathode ray was steered by amagnetic field induced by coils.
diameter, pitched at 65pm and placed
A greater or lesser amount of the beam struck the target and thus the target current could
be varied by changing the coil current. Based on his 1906 patent, the two German 45pm from the cathode.
companies AEG and Siemens founded Telefunken AG to build Electron Tubes. Valves of this type do not have a
On 10 October 1906, Dieckmann and Clag of Strasbourg filed apatent for asimilar clean cut-off grid voltage as areas of
device. In this alternative, variations in an electric field deflected the cathode ray such that a the cathode close to agrid wire are cut
off at smaller grid voltages than areas
greater or lesser amount of it fell on atarget electrode. Amplification was thus achieved by
between wires. This led to asolution
altering the proportion of cathode current striking an anode. This contrasted with the triode,
in which amplification was achieved by varying the magnitude of the cathode current. of the problem of automatic gain con-
trol. By altering the bias on the grid, a
greater or lesser proportion of the

624 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 HISTORY

cathode surface can be 'cut off' thus

altering the gain. Beginning in the mid 12
1920s, this effect was augmented in
some types intended for use as auto-
10 Vs -0V
matic gain-control components in
radio receivers. They had grids with
wires more widely spaced in the cen-
tre of the grid than at the ends and
were known as 'van-mu' valves.
Microphony in valve amplifiers is Vs =-2V
the appearance of a component of
noise produced by mechanical vibra-
tion. The main cause for it is vibration
of the grid wires. Microphony was of
little relevance in the early days of --4V
valve production. As demand increased
for radio equipment that would per-
form satisfactorily in aircraft in the late
1920s though, it became an important o
issue and research intensified. -25 25 75 125 175 225 275 325 375
The requirements of the grid struc-
ture preclude any effective damping Cathode to anode vokage V
scheme, but as most mechanical vibra-
tions are low in frequency, the grid is Fig. 3. V-I characteristic curves for asmall-signal tetrode. The curves represent the relationship between
constructed with ahigh resonant fre- anode current and anode voltage for various fixed control grid to cathode voltages (V„). The kink
quency. This is done by placing the between 25 and 75V on the anode is due to the exchange of secondarily emitted electrons between the
grid wires under tension. They are gen- anode and screen. Notice the negative impedance between 25 and 50V.
erally made of tungsten, which has a
high tensile strength. They are pulled
Control Screen Suppressor
to about half the breaking strain of
grid grid grid
tungsten and brazed with gold onto a
molybdenum frame. The whole is then
coated with gold. Cj.
•
400µm
4-
The tetrode
Capacitance between the grid and the
anode is the main factor limiting the
operating frequency range of triode
valves. Modifications to improve this
were to increase the grid-to-anode Cathode Anode
spacing and to use fewer, narrower grid
wires, but the effects of this strategy
were limited.
In 1915 Langmuir at General
Electric, and simultaneously Schottky
at Siemens, addressed the problem by
placing a'screen grid' between the grid 80um
-now 'control grid' -and the anode,
nearer to the control grid. The new 800µm
(a)
valve was called atetrode, Fig. 2.
2.5mm

Anode
(b) (c)
Suppressor grid

Control grid Screen grid Anode

Screen
Cathode Signal in Grid
Fig. 2. Circuit symbol of atetrode.
Fig. 4. The pentode - with a) showing an
A screen grid is connected to alow- elevation view of the electrode assembly, b) the
impedance circuit so its voltage varies pentacle's circuit symbol and c) apentode wired
little with variations in the anode volt- as acommon-cathode amplifier illustrating
age. The control grid is effectively typical biasing of the grids. Voltage V, is around
screened from the anode. The screen -1V with respect to the cathode.
grid's DC voltage must be higher than
that of the control grid and cathode, or

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 625

HISTORY

electrons will not pass it. In practice it is

Characteristics and distortion held at or near Vaa .
The frequency range of the tetrode
was asubstantial improvement over that
Graphs of the anode current versus anode voltage for various grid voltages for asmall signal
of the triode but at a cost: distortion.
pentode are shown in Fig. A. These 'characteristics' are very similar to those of bipolar
transistors and approximate to /a.(1 _e kVa). This leads to distortion by the introduction of odd Figure 3shows afamily of characteris-
tic curves of asmall signal tetrode.
harmonics spanning from low to high order.
Secondary emissions from both the
On the other hand, the triode's anode IV characteristics, Fig. B, approximate to / a« Va3/
2.
anode and the screen are the problem.
This produces more distortion but it is mainly by introducing lower harmonics, principally 2
As afirst approximation, the cathode
and 3times the fundamental.
current is shared between the screen
In musical terms, these notes are the octave and dominant (fifth) notes of the fundamental
grid and the anode in proportion to the
key —the note being distorted. These notes are parts of the basic chord and sound musically
relative areas they present to the
harmonious.
oncoming space charge.
Triode distortion sounds as though it belongs to the music and is difficult for the ear to
In practice, both the screen and the
detect. Even when it can be heard, it is not irksome and makes the sound 'richer'. Many
anode display aconsiderable degree of
audiophiles see this as desirable.
secondary emission due to high-energy
electrons hitting them. Thus if the
16 screen is more positive than the anode,
Vg =-IV current will flow from the anode to the
screen and vice versa. This effect spoils
the linearity of the relationship between
anode current and control grid voltage
by adding an undesirable dependence
of anode current on anode voltage,
seen as akink in the IN characteristic.
Vg = -2V This nasty IN characteristic was
improved by increasing the grid-to-
anode spacing and by coating the
anode with an emission suppressing
coating such as graphite. The basic
Vg =-3V
problem remained however, and
tetrodes — with the exception of beam
power tetrodes —largely fell out of use
Vg -4V as audio amplifier components by the
1940s.

o 40 80 120
Pentodes
160 200 240
Two Dutch engineers working for
Fig. A. V-I characteristic curves for asmall-signal pentode. The curves represent the relationship Philips, Gilles Hoist and Bernard
between anode current and anode voltage for various fixed control grid to cathode voltages (Vg). Tellegen, solved the problem of the
The curves have similar shape to those of bipolar transistors and consequently pentodes have tetrode by placing another grid between
similar distortion characteristics to transistors. the screen grid and the anode. The
result was the pentode and the new grid
7
came to be called the suppressor grid,
Fig. 4.
6— Philips was granted Dutch patents on
the pentode in 1926 and patents around
Anode current mA

the world soon after that. This was one

of the key developments that led to
Philips establishing the dominant posi-
4
tion it still enjoys today.
The suppressor grid is usually held at
3 cathode potential. It thus repels elec-
trons approaching it from either side
2— and suppresses the exchange of secon-
darily emitted electrons between the
anode and the screen grid. It does not
intercept electrons passing from the
cathode to the anode.
o A suppressor grid has widely-spaced
wires to minimise its influence on pri-
O 100 200
mary anode current, yet it still sup-
Anode voltage V presses virtually all exchange of sec-
ondary electronic emission. The
Fig. B. V.1 characteristic curves for asmall signal triode. The curves represent the relationship pentode offers several other advantages
between anode current and anode voltage for various fixed control grid to cathode voltages, Vg. as well: effective control grid-anode
screening, high anode dynamic

626 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 HISTORY

impedance and high gain per stage. If a large number of electrons are
The pentode became the most popu- emitted locally then the depth of the
lar valve type by far. minimum is increased and fewer elec-
trons have the energy to pass it. This
Beam power tetrodes smoothes out the random fluctuations
The beam power tetrode was devel- in cathode current and can reduce noise
oped after the pentode to avoid infring- power by as much as fifty times.
ing the pentode patents. It overcomes Space charge smoothing has little
the problem of secondary emission cur- effect on the random distribution of
rents by exploiting 'space charge' electron velocity components parallel
geometry. The control and screen grids to the cathode. Because of the finite
are aligned so that electrons not thickness of the screen and suppressor-
impacting on the control grid also grid wires, the amount of current col-
bypass the screen wires.
Two beam-forming electrodes, as Fig. 5. The beam power tetrocle.
shown in Fig. 5, further control the Diagram a) is cross section of the
space charge. These electrodes are con- electrode assembly while b) is an
nected together and form afifth exter- elevation view of the electrodes
nal electrode connection. This is why illustrating the alignment of the grid
the valve is often called abeam power wires.
pentode.
The space charge is channelled Control Screen
between the grid wires and beam form- grid grid
ing electrodes. In the area beyond the (b)
grids, the charge spreads out to reoc-
cupy the gaps left by the grid wires.
At any point in space within the
valve, the potential depends on the
voltages on the various electrodes and
the space-charge distribution. The
upshot is that the space-charge distri-
bution is arranged to form apotential
minimum down stream of the screen.
Cathode Anode
This potential minimum acts as avir-
tual suppressor grid and repels elec-
trons from both the screen and the
anode.
The scheme works best when sub-
stantial space currents are present. This
is why it is mainly used in high power
valves — hence the term beam power 0.5mm
valves. Beam power valves have very
similar characteristics to pentodes, 1> 1mm 4 -
though their biasing is different so they
6mm
cannot be used as plug-in replacements. -10

Semiconductors and the return lected by them depends on the trans- replaced valves in that market, save for
of the triode verse velocity of passing electrons, so a CRTs. But the particular properties of
Yet more gel
Triodes are less noisy than tetrodes or random noise is reintroduced to the the triode have ensured it aniche in the
pentodes. Most of the noise in tetrodes space charge smoothed current. This is growing high-quality audio sector. Valves have been
and pentodes is partition noise. known as partition noise. Finally, Iam indebted to Professor G. produced with
Tetrodes and pentodes are affected by M. Sacchetti of Unison Research, Italy four or more
To explain partition noise it is neces-
sary first to digress to describe shot partition noise —but not triodes because — makers of valve audio equipment — grids. The extra
they are usually operated with virtually for his advice in the preparation of this grids are usually
noise in valves. Electrons are emitted
zero grid current. Consequently, pen- article. • extra control grids
from the surface of a hot cathode
according to a Poisson type process. todes produce around ten times the to allow mixing
noise power relative to triodes. of several input
The process may be regarded as purely
random and thus has a noise compo- For audio applications, triodes also signals.
nent i2=2eAf. This is aclose approxi- have better anode IN characteristics Further reading
mation to the noise observed when the than pentodes. There's more on this in Saga of the vacuum tube, Gerald F. J.
cathode current is saturated. a separate panel entitled Tyne. ISBN 0-672-21470-9.
At currents below saturation, an 'Characteristics and distortion'. 70 Years of Radio Tubes and Valves,
effect called 'space-charge smoothing' Pentodes are stable, predictable, have John W. Stokes. ISBN 1-886606-
markedly reduces this noise. In awide frequency range, and high out- 11-0.
essence, what happens is that very put impedance. For these reasons they Principles of electron tubes, J. W.
close to the cathode there is acloud of came to dominate the mass electronics Gewartowski and H. A. Watson,
emitted electrons producing apotential market. Semiconductors though did 1965, Van Nostrand, Princeton,
minimum. Not all electrons will pass it. these things better and have entirely New Jersey

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 627

 •

R
• 11. • isp
•
14,
• •

• • I.

•t 1 • 6 a
•

Virtual System Modelling '

Build It In Cyberspace
• vvww.labcenter.co.uk
CIRCLE NO. III ON REPLY CARD

Develop and test complete micro-controller designs without

building a physical prototype. PROTEUS VSM simulates the
CPU and any additional electronics used in your designs. And it
does so in real time. *
• CPU models for PIC and 8051 and series
micro-controllers available now. 68HC11
comming soon. More CPU models under
development. See website for latest info.
• Interactive device models include LCD
displays, RS232 terminal, universal keypad
plus a range of switches, buttons, pots,
LEDs, 7segment displays and much more.
• Extensive debugging facilities including ANCIECIDE
register and memory contents, breakpoints EEEEEE
and single step modes. 41117111111111-
• Source level debugging supported for .17i17.1171.1RE-
selected development tools.
• Integrated make' utility -compile and
simulate with one keystroke.
• Over 4000 standard SPICE models included.
Fully compatible with manufacturers' SPICE models.
• DLL interfaces provided for application specific models.
• Based on SPICE3F5 mixed mode circuit simulator.
• CPU and interactive device models are sold separately -
build up your VSM system in affordable stages.
• ARES Lite PCB Layout also available.

cbcenLJen 'E g PROTEUS VSM can simulate an 8051 clocked at 12MHz on a300MHz Pentium II

Write, phone or fax for your free demo CD -or email [email protected]
Electronics Tel: 01756 753440. Fax: 01756 752857. 53-55 Main St, Grassington BD23 5AA.
 PRODUCTS
Please quote Electronics World when seeking further information

RF chip set
Agilent Technologies has
announced an RF chip set for
CDMA 800 and 1900MHz
handsets. Called
CDMAdvantage, it will include
all active RF functions required
in aCDMA handset. The
receive side has aswitched
LNA that can be used in an
adaptive mode to reduce current
draw. The combination of the
MGA-72543 bypassed-switched
LNA with the HPMX-7102
dual-band, dual-mode down
converter can provide
—106.5dBm sensitivity at less
than 1per cent frame error rate.
Also part of the chipset are
three power amplifier modules
—the QCPM-9801 dual-band,
dual-mode amplifier,
QCPM-9804 dual-band, tri -
Dual-redundant fibre channel PMC
mode amplifier and
QCPM-9805 single-band, dual- Radstone has introduced the FA2 dual- conduction-cooled environments, and is
mode module. The QCPM-9804 redundant fibre channel PCI mezzanine card capable of fibre channel data transfer rates up
has the functionality of three adapter. It uses fibre channel technology to 200Mbyte/s. It supports class two and
amplifiers (Amps, CDMA800 developed by Fairchild for the B-1 B stealth three communications over all fibre channel
and CDMA1900) in one 11.5 bomber. The dual redundancy provides topologies. Orbital's fibre channel
by 11.5mm package. system level fault tolerance by creating technology uses active transceivers that have
Agilent Technologies parallel paths through the transceivers and passed military EMC tests while transmitting
Tel: 00 49 6441 9246 46 cable plant. This feature can automatically at 1GHz over 21m of cable with standard
switch to the alternative, available channel if aerospace connectors in line.
there is afailure. It provides dual-attach fibre Radstone Technology
Dual codec chip channel fabric connectivity in air-cooled and Tel: 01327 359444
From DT Electronics is the
MSM7731 dual codec chip that
integrates acoustic and line-side transfer clock generator for in standby mode. The device
analogue interfaces with echo digital communications. An can be controlled via serial or
and noise cancellation. For integral analogue input parallel ports.
hands-free communications amplifier has amaximum gain DT Electronics
systems, it is equipped with of 30dB and the analogue Tel: 024 7643 7437
gain and mute controls for data output is apush-pull
transmission and reception, a configuration to drive a 1.21d1
load. There is abuilt-in transmit Tactile switches
p-law PCM -16-bit linear digital
interface for memo recording slope filter. The chip operates Thomas & Betts has broadened
and message output, and a from a3V power supply. Echo its Alcoswitch range with three
attenuation is typically 35dB for tactile switches —the FSM CT,
white noise and signal noise CTA and CTL. They can be
attenuation I7dB for white positioned 5to 6mm beneath
noise or 40dB for single tone. switch foils or flat keypads. including supermarket cash
The built-in codec provides With aheight of 1.5mm, the registers and washing machine
synchronous transmission and switches are for use under thin controls. All three operate from
reception, permitting full foils on the front panels of —25 to +70'C. The CTA and
duplex operation. Typical • electrical and electronic CTL are quoted at 100 000
operating current is 35mA at a equipment. They are aimed at cycles and the CT at 500 000
VDD of 3.0V falling to 0.02mA the white goods market cycles. There are three

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 629

 Please quote Electronics World when seeking further information

operating strengths, that is the configurations. One SGRAM

degree of force to cause or SDRAM chip provides
actuation, of 120, 180 and 4Mbyte of external packet
260gf. Surface area is 4.9 by memory. Each port uses
4.9mm. physical layer mixed-signal
Thomas &Betts core architecture and an 802.3
Tel: 00 32 2359 8300 compliant Mac that provides
half and full duplex with flow
control. The switching fabric
Scope weighs 3kg provides full wire speed store
Lecroy has developed the and forward with auto
Literunner LP142 digital learning and ageing. Features
oscilloscope that weighs about include broadcast storm and
3kg. There is abuilt-in floppy head-of-line. It has
drive, graphics printer and tion for LCDs. The 0402, 0603 programmability using an
internal five-digit hardware and 0805 sized products mea- BT.601 digital video
frequency counter. It operates at sure from 1.0 by 0.5mm and waveforms, allowing them to
500MS/s and 100MHz have been made using multilay- verify source, timing and
bandwidth. Memory is er forming technology. The sur- amplitude. The module operates
100kbyte/ch and it has three- face mount 0402 thermistors are in TDS3000 series DPOs, and
way data storage capability. suitable for reflow soldering so is intended to provide digital
Horizontal accuracy is 5Oppm. and the 0603 and 0805 can be video engineers with asingle
Basic functions required for flow and reflow soldered. Also instrument for qualitative
common measurements are available are the NTH5G16P troubleshooting of digital video
provided automatically. For and NTH5G2OP measuring 1.6 signals.
example, it can automatically by 0.8mm and 2.0 by I.25mm Tektronic
measure the time differential respectively. Tel: 01628 403446
between signals. The Murata Electronics
oscilloscope automatically sets Tel 01252 811666
up vertical and horizontal range OCX0s for pico
and triggers for measuring base stations
repetitive signals. A function Octal Ethernet switch EPROM or an MDIO A range ot miniature OCX0s
knob is used to select amenu An integrated single-chip interface for register and PHY (oven controlled crystal oscilla-
item and apress of abutton to octal switch for 10 and access. tors) for use in mobile phone
set it. I0ObaseTX desktop Solid State Supplies
Lecroy applications, the ACIO8SU Tel: 01892 836836
Tel: 01235 536973 from Solid State Supplies is
based on the Nucleus Digital video
switching architecture. The
Thermistors single chip, two layer octal troubleshooter
Murata has produced the switch can cascade up to 24 Tektronix has announced a
NTH5G1OP chip NTC thermis- ports at full wire speed. module for its TDS3000 family
tors for temperature compensa- Internal RAM supports 4k of digital phosphor
tion in portable electronic Mac addresses, and the oscilloscopes (DPO). The
equipment, including mobile 4.8Gbit Nucleus backplane TDS3SDI module enables
phones, PDAs and audio equip- enables full wire speed in broadcast engineers and
ment, and contrast compensa- eight, 16 and 24-port technicians to view ITU-R

PC functions in a500MHz DSO PC-based analysis and report generation

Gould has combined the acquisition power packages. There is also an internal 8.4Gbyte
of its 500MHz, 4-channel digital storage hard disk and removable 1.44 or 120Mbyte
oscilloscope (DSO) with the features of a floppy alternatives. With all controls
PC. The Ultima's 500MHz bandwidth and accessible using traditional front panel
up to 2Gsample/s sample rate with 1Mbyte controls or through mouse and keyboard, the
memory per channel is supported with a instrument provides arange of real-time
package of trigger tools to qualify the analysis capabilities including FFT,
incoming signal for amplitude, time, pulse, differentiation, integration, phase correction
gating and TV. A wide dynamic range in and math functions. Up to eight display
transient mode, with 12-bit resolution up to windows can be viewed simultaneously
2Msample/s, is also included. Featuring a enabling main and zoom traces or user
Pentium class computer, and large I0.4in defined math traces to be viewed
SVGA (800 x640) colour display, the unit's independently and scaled to user defined
internal configuration is such that direct data units.
interchange is made to Microsoft Office Gould Nicolet
applications, as well as to other third party Tel: 020 8501 6604

630 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

Test & Measurement Instruments' WATCH SLIDES ON TV
MAKE VIDEOS OF
The NEW HF-08 Analog to Serial Converter
YOUR SLIDES
8bet resotubon
Windows and DOS software available DIGITISE YOUR
DVM Scope Spectrum Logging
r err r/ 7 ranges +1 25V to +5 OV -2 5V and *2 5V
SLIDES
J Crystal controlled timing for accurate DSP
(using a video capture card)
Simple to interface to your own software
-Liesgang diatv' automatic slide viewer with built in high quality colour TV camera. It has
Low Cost -lust £69.33 inci vat
acomposite video output to a phono plug (SCART & BNC adaptors are available) They
12 bit module coming soon are in very good condition with few signs of use £91.91+ vat =£108.00
Board cameras all with 512x582 pixels 8.5mm 1/3 inch sensor and composite video out

RF All need to be housed in your own enclosure and have fragile exposed surface mount

PIF
parts. They all require a power supply of between 10 and 12v DC 150mA

Instruments Data Logging

47MIR size 60x36x27mm with 6 infra red LEDs (gives the same illumination as a small
torch but is not visible to the human eye) £37.00 yvat = £43 48

& Acquisition 30MP size 32x32x14mm spy camera with a fixed focus pin hole lens for hiding behind a
very small hole £35 00 yvat= £41 13
EMC Instruments 40MC size 39x38x27mm camera for 'C' mount lens these give a much sharper image
than with the smaller lenses £32.00 •vat = £37.60
Equipment Phone: 01420 590000
Economy C mount lenses all fixed focus 8 fixed iris
e-mail sales@hf-inst co uk
VSL1220F 12mm F1.6 12x15 degrees viewing angle £15 97 +vat = £18.76
VSL4022F 4mm F1.22 63x47 degrees viewing angle £17.65 yvat = £20.74

Metered bench power supplies VSL6022F 6mm F1.22 42x32 degrees viewing angle £19.05 •vat = £22.38

Up to 60V and 6A Handy CAW /Scope VSL8020F 8mm F1 22 32x24 degrees viewing angle £19.90 yvat =£23.38
Prices from £127 inc VAT Counter/Timer Better quality C Mount lenses
TTL Sig. Gen. VSL1614F 16mm F1.6 30x24 degrees viewing angle £26.43 yvat = £31.06
£199 inc. VAT VWL813M 8mm F1 3 with iris 56x42 degrees viewing angle £77.45 yvat = £91 00
1206 surface mount resistors E12 values 10 ohm to 1M ohm 100 of 1value £1 00 yvat
In • 4111/ 1000 of 1value £5.00 vat
866 battery pack originally intended to be used with an orbtel
mobile telephone it contains 10 16Ah sub C batteries
142x22dia the size usually used in cordless screwdrivers etc.)
the pack is new and unused and can be broken open quite
easily £7.46yvat =£8.77
-0
Please add 166 vat -11 95 postage & packing per order

Visit our Web Site for full details: JPG ELECTRONICS

276-278 Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield, S40 2BH.

www.hf-inst.co.uk Tel 01246 211202 Fax 01246 550959 MastercardNisa/Switch

Callers welcome 9:30 a.m .to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday

CIRCLE NO.112 ON REPLY CARD CIRCLE NO. 113 ON REPLY CARD

PROFESSIONAL from Milford Instruments

Milford Instruments Tel 01977 683665, Fax 01977 681465

Development Tools www.milinst.demon.co.uk [email protected]

Milford House, 120 High Street, South Milford, LEEDS LS25 5ACI

BASIC Stamps
Still the easiest and fastest way to
get your project up and going.
RIM ..
ROM Emulators
rom TechTools
8or 16 I/O pins, easy-to-read
PIC Emulators BASIC instructions plus on-board
from Tech Tools comms and simple interfacing to
Mathias In-Circuit Emulator peripheral chips.
• 5C5X to 20MHz
• 1600( to 25MHz and data breakpoints
e Modular design
• oIntegrated Windows Environment Scenix Emulators
• °ports standard assemblers and compilers
• Bondout Chip set based from Parallax
• ,grammers and adaptors also a,adable
vil details at www.tech-tools.cor

••••••
SX-Key Emulator
• •os are EEPROM bas'
potible micros with up t. 100mips
Feay New to PICs or performance.
SnCrl just wanting to learn • Full speed debugging on production chip..
• Integrated Windows environment SERIAL LCDs reduce display hassle-
new tricks? We stock a range of alphanumeric and graphic displays all fitted
• Software configured oscillator
We stock the excellent Squafi • 18 to 52 pin reprogrommable devices with serial RS232 interface boards- 2x16 to 4x40 and up to
series of PIC primers. • SX Blitz low cost programmer also 128x64 graph, .- ,ze
See our web site for contents. available. Full details and software at
liRS232 data entry terminal unit also available

CIRCLE NO.114 ON REPLY CARD

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD

NEW PRODUCT
Please quote Electronics World when seeking further information

base stations and Stratum 3 the reverse isolation is a

Oven -controlled
SDH/SONET switching has minimum of —40dB.
been launched by C-MAC Temic Semiconductors oscillator
Frequency Products. The Tel: 00 33 130 60 70 68 Quartz Pro has introduced a
CFPO-6 range is specified to fully automated mass
offer stability to within ±0.02 production process for the
Miniature baluns for
ppm over the —20°C to +70°C manufacture of Quartz Pro
temperature range at output Z conversion X-ACT oven-controlled crystal
frequencies from 4MHz to A range of miniature baluns oscillators. The supplier claims
40MHz. Alternatively, it can (balanced/unbalanced devices) that the technique achieves
cover frequencies up to designed to provide passive yields exceeding 90 per cent
60MHz at ±0.25 ppm stability impedance conversion between which it says will have a
over temperature range. It is 75Q coaxial and 120Q twisted- favourable impact on product
packaged in alow-profile 25.4 pair cable has been introduced lead-times.
x25.4 x I2.7mm case. by Harting. The products are AEL Crystals
C MAC Frequency Products 925MHz to 960MHz GSM designed to meet the electrical Tel: 01293 524245
Tel: 01460 74433 mobile phones. The companion requirements for transmission
device, the TST095 Iis specified in the ITU G.703
designed for mobile phone
Miniature slide and
900/1900M Hz standard. Standard products are
applications in the frequency available with transmission rotary pots
SiGe LNA
range of 1800MHz to speeds from 1.55 to 34Mbit/s. The range of miniature slide
Temic Semiconductors has 2000MHz. The LNAs with 155Mbit/s devices and rotary thumb wheel poten-
introduced two dual-gain low- incorporate a2-stage available to special order. The tiometers available from
noise amplifiers (LNAs) amplifier and switchable gain baluns are available with a
manufactured in SiGe and offer anoise figure of variety of interconnection
technology. The IC TST0950 2.2dB in high-gain mode. The styles, and feature full shielding
can be used for conventional large signal capability is the for EMURFI protection.
superheterodyne or direct- equivalent of IIP3 equal to Insertion loss from 1to I7MHz
conversion receivers in —7dBm in lo\\ !node, and is less than 0.5dB, return loss is
less than —22dB, and crosstalk

The Distributor with (with 15mm between centres) is

greater than 80dB.
Harting
20,000 hard-to-find lines Tel: 01604 166686

EX STOCK!!!
Semiconductors
We have one of the largest ranges of discrete parts in the
UK, both new and obsolete types and, if we do not have it in
stock, we can usually source it for you.
Call or fax for our latest Semiconductor stock list.

Computer products
We carry in stock everything to make a Personal Computer.
CPUs - Memory - Motherboards - Cards - Scanners -
Modems - Sound Cards - Speakers - All types of Drives -
Cases — PSUs — Monitors etc
Call or fax for our latest Semiconductor stock list.

Components ik equipment
Capacitors - Resisitors - Connectors - Potentiometers -
USB audio controller
Cables - Batteries - Speakers - Amplifiers - Lamps - Flint is offering an intelligent audio IC which includes an
Microphones - Fans - Power supplies - Transformers - interface for the universal serial bus. The Micronas
Buzzers - Sirens - Fuses and Holders - LEDs - LCDs - UAC3552A contains all the functionality required to balance a
loudspeaker enclosure and connect the speakers direct to the
Relays - PA Systems - Tools - Test Equipment - etc
PC without involving asound card. The design integrates a
Fax or write to us for our latest catalogue
DSP, EEPROM. high-performance digital-analogue converter.
operational amplifier and USB controller. The device stores

5E1
Semiconductor Supplies International Ltd
data for human interface device implementation on EEPROM.
For example, volume and other parameters may be adjusted
Dawson House. 128 -130 Carshalton Road.
Sutton, Surrey. England. UK. SM1 4TW
on the speaker, then transferred to the PC via the bus for
020-8643 1126 (Sales and Technical Queries) display on control panels.
Fax: 020-8643 3937 (For International use *4420) Flint
e-mail: [email protected] Web: ssi-uk.com
Tel: 01539 510333
•••••..

ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 T & M EQUIPMENT •ralle electronics ofess,onal T&M HEWLETT PACKARD

zi. ••••erte 0._.e..,“. •Unit 1Olds Close •Olds Approach •Watford •Herts WD1 BRU •England •
itniizâ
TEL (+44) 01923-721396 • FAX (+44) 01923-721402

EST
45 2140 pulse generator f2000
AD VASTEST TR9407 ftt spectrum analyser to 1MHz 12000 YRS 33364 level generator 01000
ADVANTEST TR4133 100kHz-206Hz spectrum analyser £5000
1640B serial data generator £500
ANRITSU ML93A optical power meter with MA96A power
10715A digital interferometer 01000
sensor 10 75-1 8uM) £1000
ANRITSU MN950 fibre-optic attenuator 0-65db £250 4274A multi-frequency icr meter £2500
BRADLEY 192 oscilloscope calibrator £250 IFR A-7550 16111 portable spectrum analyser with receiver options 3245A universal source with option 001 I2nd channel) £3250
CHASE LFR1000 interference measuring receiver 9kHz-I50kHz £200 AM /FM/SS8 £1500 3335A level generator £2500
DATRON 1061A voltmeter /lazonoicrso £1250 MARCONI 2022 signal generator 10kHz-IGHz INCLUDING FREE 35614 dynamics signal analyser £3660
DRANETZ 626-PA-6006 ac neutral monitor, ONTR2018 clamp f250 CALIBRATION £750 3586A selective level meter £1250
EIP 5486 frequency counter 266Hz I.fx eat optionl El 750 PHILIPS PM5139 function generator 01mHz-20MHz f1500 37717A/U1A&UKK/US1/URU ISOH/PDHI test set •optical f5000
FLANS MICROWAVE 27072 frequency meter 73-1136Hz £275 RACAL DANA 1992 frequency counter. GPI8 opt £00 40938 protocol tester base IPT3001 f3000
FLANN precision rotary waveguide attenuator 20110 0-60db 18-26 GHz SCHLUMBERGER 1250 frequency response analyser E3000 53348 frequency counter, option 060 011W
£150 RACAL 6102 GSM test set f2000
546004 2channel 100MHz digital oscilloscope
TEKTRONIX 2430A digital oscilloscope £750
FLANN precision rotary waveguide attenuator 22110 0-70db 26.406Hz
£750 TEKTRONIX 2432A 100MHz 250MSa/sec digital storage oscilloscope
seam 4channel as above £750
80184 serial data generator f1109
11000
83411C lightwave receiver 100/1550nm £1750
TEKTRONIX 2236 100MHz analogue oscilloscope f500
£250 83440C lightwave detector 20GHz 1300nm/1550nm £2000
TAU-TRON MN302/MB302N ben transmitter/receiver
WANDEL &GOLTERMANN PCM4 test sets... call for details 83508 sweep generator mainf•ame £1250
PLEASE NOTE WE HAVE NOW MOVED TO £5000
&options call 835729 sweeper plug-in unit (for 835081 26 5-406Hz
LARGER PREMISES AS ABOVE... WANDEL &GOLTERMANN PF2 error ratio measuring set £400 850538 35mm verification kit £2000
WANDEL &GOLTERMANN DLM-20 data circuit test set £250 856404 tracking generator to 29GHz f2000
We are situated just 5Mino from J18 on the M25, WANDEL &GOLTERMANN SPM31 level meter £500 86724 synthesized signal generator 2-I8GHz f4000
Callers very welcome by appointment please. WANDEL &GOLTERMANN WM30 levei tracer £500 86114 synthesised signal generator 2-6 2GHz f3000
WANDEL &GOLTERMANN PF4 bit error reate tester 86222.4 10MHz-2 46Hz sweep generator plug-in unit 01000
THIS MONTH'S SPECIALS: IBN911/01. Opt 00 011 £2000 £1500
86290E1 2-186Hz sweep generator plug-in unit
WAVETEK 23 synthesized function generator 0.01Hz-12MHz £500 ft000
86848 signal generator 546H:12.56Hz
GSM TEST SETS WAVETEK 1080 sweep generator I-IC(0MHz £750
890313 audio analyser with opts 10 and 051 £2500
WAYNE KERR 3220 204 bias unit (for 3245 inductance analysel 01000
RACAL 6102 £2000 8904A/001/002 multifunction synthesizer DC-600kHz £2000
WAYNE KERR 513268 source and detector £250
8922E GSM test set £3000
HP13922F with spec an option 1061 £3500 WILTRON 6637 sweeper generator 2-186Hz (option 031 02000
E52004 broadband service analyser ISTM1 options) f9500
WILTRON 6640B sweep generator 26 5-40GHz (option 031 £3500
J3458A fast ethernet Lanprobe £1500
J2522B Internet advisor ENO°
All equipment sold calibration-checked by independent laboratories and carries
un-conditional refund and 90-day guarantees.
TEST EQUIPMENT WANTED.
TOP PRICES PAID FOR PROFESSIONAL HIGH-END UNITS
rf,EZIE) v

AGILENT TECHNOLOGY SPECIALISTS.

FOR COMPLETE STOCK LISTING PLEASE CHECK OUR WEB-SITE IS09002 ACCREDITED STOCKIST

vvviniv.raffe-electronics.co.uk
MEASUREMENT & TEST EQUIPMENT

(IR( II NO.115 ON REPLY CARD

The Headphone Amplifier Box

CHART AUDIO LEVELS
Balanced or unbalanced microphone or line input In-vision colour display or hard copy printout
to headphone output
Professional portable units operating from an internal PP3 :IiiudIsatikitot—d_te 42e"R

battery or external mains adaptor

::mmiyiNakig
4-
1-2iiieleal.àdle~ffliMidli 1°
4 1
n 21 22 21 21 23 24 2? U
4 5 3 1 5

Ii' 2 6
1 / 7 1
•\\ .4 4

PPM10 In-vision PPM and Chart Recorder generates a displa ,,

emulating the well known coaxial TWIN movements for monitoring sterec.
*Precision transformerless balanced input *Bridged audio levels and mono compatibility. Also: STEREO TWIN METER BOX

headphones output drive *Sensitivity selectable over awide comprising two PPM9 boards, featuring inherent stability with law under
microprocessor control. A free standing mains powered box frequentlr,
range of input levels *Low noise and distortion used for the final stereo monitoring when working to broadcast standards
*High common mode rejection *Loop through facility Manufactured under licence from the BBC.

*Extensive RFI protection

The Balance Box (precision mic/line amplifier )—

* Advanced Active Aerial 4kHz-30MHz * Stabilizer frequency shift units
Ihe Phantom Power Box —The OneStop DIN rail mounting
for howl reduction * Five Hz Fixed Shift Circuit Board * Stereo Variable
radio frequency interference filter and voltage transient Emphasis Limiter * PPM9, PPM5 hybrid and PPM8 IEC/DIN —50/4-6cle
protector for voltage and current loop process signal lines drives and movements * Broadcast Monitor Receiver 150kHz-30MHz *

Conford Electronics Conford Liphook Hants cu3o 7QM SURREY ELECTRONICS

Information line 01428 751469 Fax 751223 The Forge, Lucks Green, Cranleigh
Surrey GU6 7BG
E-mail [email protected]
Telephone: 01483 275997 Fax: 01483 276477
Web http://www.confordelec.co.uk

CIRCLE NO. 116 ON REPLY CARD WRI.«111141,. DUI1lei11.11.1 Le..1,111.

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD

 NEW PRODUCT
Please quote Electronics World when seeking further information

Quiller Electronics, the TBM process display, data buffered data modes to and embedded sectional patch
NS range consists of a3.5mm transmission and data input. support voice and data antennas. Bandwidth is 1710 to
slide volume control intended Available from Pentair, the switching, microprocessor 1800MHz (DCS) and 880 to
for applications such as LCD Protega is rated to IP66 and interface and aJTAG port.. 960MHz (GSM),
back-light control of laptop has asolid plastic body, IDT intermodulation —165dBc and
and notebook PCs and a measuring 20 or 49HP, into Tel: 01372 363339 VSWR 18:1 maximum.
2.5mm slider that can be used which is fitted ametal BMC- Horizontal beamwidth is 60°
for zoom lens positioning on shielded subrack that can (DCS) and 75 to 80° (GSM),
compact photographic equip- hold all I9in. components. Base station
and vertical beamwidth 45"
ment. There is also available a The 3U product can be antennas (DCS) and 70° (GSM).
rotary potentiometer with a supplied in wall-mount or Radiall has introduced antennas Matching impedance is 50(2
metal shaft that has arotation- desktop versions. Modules for micro cell base station and isolation between antennas
al angle of 220° and an outer can be installed without the applications. The range includes —20dB.
diameter of lOmm and afoot- use of any tool. Hinges on the embedded omnidirectional wire Radial!
print spacing of 2.5mm. All right and left sides let users patch, embedded patch array Tel 0208 997 8880
units are available in both sur- open the enclosure from
face mount and through-hole either side. The front panel
fixing and they require a and the whole of the front of Space databus interface
small aperture for operation the enclosure can be flapped DDC's BU -6I582 radiation hardened version of its ACE MIL-
which is intended to minimise giving the user access to the STD-I553 databus terminal is intended for use on launch
ingress of dust into the equip- front and rear of the modules, vehicles, satellites, space stations, the space shuttle and other
ment. backplane and cabling. Users extra-terrestrial vehicles. Implemented in Honeywell's 0.8pm
Quiher Electronics can seal the rear, base and RICMOS (Radiation-Insensitive CMOS) process, it can be
Tel: 01202 436770 front modules by preventing configured as abus controller, remote terminal or monitor
the hinges from opening with terminal. The device is available with or without bipolar
lateral barrier locks. The rear transceivers in voltage options of +5V/-15V or +5V/-12V.
Photoelectric sensor
section can be supplied with Units are designed to withstand atotal gamma ray dose of
Matsushita has introduced the or without aterminal box. 70Krads. A gamma dose rate as high as 1.0 x I 0'" is tolerated
UZB5/6 single chip optical IC When fitted with aterminal with 25ps recovery. The 32k x8RICMOS RAM is utilised in a
photoelectric sensor with a box, users have the choice of shared RAM microprocessor interface as if it were configured
top or bottom cable entry. as 16k x 16. Package choices are 70-pin DIP or 70-pin flat
Pentair Enclosures pack for the BU-6I582 or I96-pin ceramic quad flat pack for
Tel: 01442 240471 the BU-65621.
DDC
Tel: 01635 81140
Digital switch
IDT's TSI time slot
interchange digital switch is
for use in converged voice and
data networks. It lets voice-
over-IP applications maintain
an interface with traditional
telephony systems, providing
the ability to switch and route
digital telephone signals
sensitivity adjuster integral to during the transfer of voice
the sensor head. This,
combined with ared dot LED,
speeds up focusing and
sensitivity changes. Sensing
range is 2m, depending on 41101
type. It incorporates M3 y

mounting screw holes with Y•

reinforced metal inserts. It
comes in retro-reflective, • •I

through-beam, diffuse and

convergent reflective variants
with either pnp or npn
outputs.
Matsushita information. It is based on the
Tel: 01908 231555 traditional time-division
multiplexed interface
19in subrack standards. Primarily used in
public-switched telephone
enclosure
networks, it provides PCM
A Schroff enclosure for protocol support and is
measurement and control compatible with TDM bus
suits applications such as standards. Features include

634 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 Unique 15% reader discount on Crownhill's
range of versatile programmers

Programmers
Lab Prog 48
Flagship universal programmer, for Microprocessors,
EEproms, Eproms, Flash memory etc.
Normal selling price exclusive of VAT and delivery £356.00,

for all occasions

discount price £302.60.
UK delivery £15.00 — next day courier
EC delivery £45 —DHL or UPS normally 1-2 working days
Delivery outside EC £55 —DHL or UPS 2-3 working days
VAT 017.5% is applicable only to UK and EC orders.
Company orders in
EC (not UK) where
Crownhill Associates is offering an exclusive 15% discount on
the company is VAT any product in the company's programmer range to any reader

il'iv**44*
registered and the of Electronics World until 31 August 2000. This unique reader
VAT number is
discount is of particular interest in that the range of
produced at the time
of order, can be
programmers on offer is competitivley priced even without the
shipped exclusive of discount.
VAT. For more details on the of range programmers, see
Crownhill's web site, detailed below, and the company's
SEE PROG advertisement on page 551 of this issue.
Serial EEprom programmer with enhanced facilities.
Normal selling price exclusive of VAT and delivery £49.95,
discount price £42.46. Crownhill Associates Limited, 32 Broad Street, Ely,
UK delivery £7.00 (Royal Mail special next day delivery)
Cambridge CB7 4AH England, UK.
EC delivery £10.00 (Swift Registered air mail 5-7 working
days) Tel: +44 (0) 1353 66 67 09 Fax +44 (0) 1353 66 67 10
Delivery outside EC £12 (Swift Registered air mail 5-7
working days)
[email protected]
USA £45 (DHL or UPS 2-3 working days) http://www.crownh i
II.co. uk
VAT «P17.5% is applicable only to UK and EC orders.
Company orders in EC http://www.edsim2000.com http://www.picbasic.co.uk
(NOT UK) where the
http://www.cambsnet.co.uk for your FREE Internet account
company is VAT
registered and the VAT
number is produced at
the time of order, can
be shipped exclusive of Order coupon
VAT
Please send mé:

LabProg 48
PIC Prog
Universal Pic Programmer
SEE Prog
Normal selling price exclusive of VAT and delivery £99.95,
PIC Prog
discount price £84.96.
UK delivery £7.00 (Royal Mail special next day delivery) For which Ienclose a a cheque made payable to Crownhill
EC delivery £10.00 (Swift Registered air mail 5-7 working
days) Associates Limited for £. or my credit card details as follows:
Delivery outside EC £12 (Swift Registered air mail 5-7
working days) Card type (please tick) Visa 0 Master
USA £45 (DHL or UPS 2-3 working days)
Card number
VAT 017.5% is applicable only to UK and EC orders.
Company orders
Expiry date
-401 e:,
0 in EC (not UK)
where the Name of cardholder
irigtwe,
t
company is VAT
registered and the Address of cardholder
VAT number is
produced at the
time of order, can
be shipped
exclusive of VAT Please post this coupon to Crownhill Associates Limited 32 Broad
Street Ely, Cambridge CB7 4AH England, UK.
NEW PRODUCT
Please quote Electronics World when seeking further information

Single/dual input thermocouples and have 0.1°C transceiver uses amplifier- 10 -bit a-to-d
thermometer resolution over the sequenced hybrid (ash) Maxim has introduced the
Fluke has introduced two digital measurement range. They are architecture in ametal package Max1425 10-bit monolithic
thermometers, the 50S single protected by arugged yellow measuring 10.7 by 9mm. It bipolar analogue-to-digital
input and 50D dual input units. holster. An offset function can covers the European converter with 20MS/s
Both work with Jor K type be used to reduce thermocouple 433.92MHz unlicensed band digitising rate. It is for imaging,
errors. Degrees C or Fcan be for security and control high-speed communication and
selected. A hold mode freezes applications, supporting data instrumentation applications.
the display. The 50D has rates up to 115.2kbit/s. For ' The device achieves a61dB
minimum and maximum handheld systems, it typically sinad and 72dB SFDR at 2MHz
recording, scan mode to cycle draws I.8mA from a3V battery input frequency. Operating
the display and differential and has asleep mode. The RX from a+5V analogue supply, it
TI-T2 mode. ash receiver has data rates achieves this over a±2V input
Fluke configurable from 2.4 to range through the use of
Tel: 01923 2216400 1I5.2kbit/s. The receiver and differential pipeline architecture
TX hybrid transmitter are and a0.6pm CMOS process. An
single chips requiring a3V integrated, fully differential
315-916.5MHz
battery and provide the input track-hold amplifier
transceivers 433.92MHz waveband for provides wideband dynamic
Flint has introduced licence- European operation under Etsi performance with a5pF input
exempt 3V transmitters, I-ETS 300220 and, in capacitance and a150MHz full-
receivers and transceivers in Germany, under FTZ 17 power bandwidth. An on-chip
frequencies from 315 to TR2100. precision 2.5V bandgap
916.5MHz. The RFM TR3000 Flint Distribution reference supplies additional
surface mount hybrid Tel: 01530 510333 reference voltages. This allows

111£11
11
LOW- POWER
Low-Power CMOS VLSI Circuit Design
CMOS VLSI
A comprehensive look at the rapidly growing field of low-power VLSI design
CIRCUIT DESIGN
Low-power VLSI circuit design is a
Return to Jackie Lowe, Room L333, Quadrant House,
dynamic research area driven by the
The Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey, SM2 SAS
growing reliance on battery-powered
portable computing and wireless
Please supply the following title:
communications products. In addi-
Low-Power CMOS VLSI Circuit Design tion, it has become critical to the con-
V.iel.1 is,
tinued progress of high-performance Slurat
and reliable microelectronic systems.
Name
This self-contained volume clearly
Address introduces each topic, incorporates dozens of illustrations, and
concludes chapters with summaries and references. VLSI circuit
and CAD engineers as well as researchers in universities and
industry will find ample information on tools and techniques for
design and optimization of low-power electronic systems.

Postcode Topics include:

Telephone • Fundamentals of power dissipation in microelectronic devices
• Estimation of power dissipation due to switching, short
Method of payment (please circle)
circuit, subthreshold leakage, and diode leakage currents
Access/Mastercard/Visa/Cheque/PO • Design and test of low-voltage CMOS circuits
Cheques should be made payable to • Power-conscious logic and high-level synthesis
Reed Business Information • Low-power static RAM architecture
• Energy recovery techniques
Credit card no
• Software power estimation and optimization
Card expiry date

Signed .1K Price: £54.50 Europe £55.50 ROW £57.50

** Price includes delivery and package**

ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 W ithout an engineering degree, apile of
money, or an infinite amount of time, the
revised 289-page Interfacing with C is worth
serious consideration by anyone interested in
controlling equipment via the PC. Featuring
extra chapters on Z transforms, audio
processing and standard programming
structures, the new Interfacing with C will be
especialy useful to students and engineers
interested in ports, transducer interfacing,
analogue-to-digital conversion, convolution,
digital filters, Fourier transforms and Kalman
filtering. Full of tried and tested interfacing
routines.
Price £14.99.

Listings on disk — over 50k of C source code

dedicated to interfacing. This 3.5in PC format
disk includes all the listings mentioned in the
book Interfacing with C. Note that this is an
upgraded disk containing the original
Interfacing with C routines rewritten for Turbo
C++ Ver.3
Price £15, or £7.50 when purchased with the
above book.

Especialy useful for students, the original

Interfacing with C, written for Microsoft C
Version 5.1, is still available at the price of
£7.50. Phone 0181 652 3614 for bulk
purchase price.

r- -T
-

Post your completed order form to:-

How to pay
Jackie Lowe, Electronics World, Room L333,
J Ienclose acheque/bank draft for £
Quadrant House, The Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey, SM2 5AS (payable to Reed Business Information)

Please charge my credit/charge card

Please send me Price (Dry Total
Mastercard J American Express J Visa J Diners Club

Enhanced Interfacing with C book @ £14.99 Credit Card No: Expiry Date:

Enh. Interfacing with C book @ +disk £22.49

Interfacing with C disk @ £15.00
Signature of Cardholder
Original Interfacing with C book @ £7.50 Send my order to: (please use capitals)

Postage +Packing per order UK £3.50 Name

Postage +Packing per order Eur £7.00 Address

Postage +Packing per order UK £12.00

Total Post Code Tel:

Fax: • Date

Please allow up to 28 days for dellvery

_L
 BOOK TO BUY
NEW PRODUCTS
Frequency Synthesis Please quote Electronics World
when seeking further information
by Phase Lock
Frequency synthesis is an important element in the design of all
communications equipment, but has taken on new life recently
with the advent of new hand-held wireless devices. This tech- flexible input range options and converters are for applications
nology not only allows wireless transmitters to change frequen- automatically ensures the requiring isolation or
cies quickly, but also gives high reliability and security in trans- correct DC bias levels for AC- conversion of DC power rails.
missions. Thus, mobile devices such as cell phones can utilise
coupled applications. A They can start up at
this technology to change frequencies until a suitable one is
separate digital supply supports temperatures down to -40°C
found for the location in which it is being used.
• Emphasises the fundamentals
3to 5V output interfaces. The with full specification operation
of frequency synthesis output data is presented in two's up to +85°C without using a
• Based on acourse that Dr. complement format. It comes in heatsink or other external
Egan has been teaching for over a28-pin SSOP package for the cooling device. Efficiency
20 years at Santa Clara —40 to +85°C range. An ratings are about 85 per cent
University evaluation kit is available. and they come with nominal 5
• Provides a link to the Wiley ftp Maxim Integrated Products or I2V inputs. Each input
site for the use of associated
Tel: 0188 930 3388 option can be supplied with
MATLAB exercises
single-ended outputs of 5, 9, 12
• Taken together with Phase
Lock Basics by the same author,
or 15V. They do not require
the two books provide readers
CPU supervisors external components for
with complete coverage of the Insight Memec has introduced operation and use an internal
field. two single-chip user SMD construction with ceramic
CONTENTS Introduction The programmable, dual voltage capacitors.
Elementary Phase-Locked CPU supervisors that integrate Campbell Collins
Synthesizer: Modulation. power-on-reset, watchdog Tel: 01438 369466
Sidebands and Noise Spectrums:
timer, two low voltage sense
Frequency Dividers; Phase
monitors and 64kbyte of on-
Detectors; Higher Order Loops;
Sampling Effects; Architectures; chip EEPROM. The Xicor Power amp chipset
Large-Signal Performance, X40620 and X46402 let system National Semiconductor has
Natural Acquisition; Acquisition designers tune device launched the LM465I and
Aids; Spectral Purity; Computer parameters to requirements. LM4652 two-chip driver and
Aided Engineering. quad MOSFET amplifier
chipset for high-fidelity class D
subwoofer designs. This chipset
UK Price: £64.00 Europe £66.50 ROW £69.00 provides up to 170W of audio
power at an 85 per cent
** Price includes delivery and package ' efficiency. An integrated PWM
modulation driver IC, the
Return to Jackie Lowe, Room 1333, Quadrant House, LM4651 contains short-circuit,
The Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey, SIY12 SAS undervoltage, over-modulation
and thermal-shutdown

Please supply the following title:

Frequency Synthesis by Phase Lock Both let the user select the low
voltage reset trip points for the
independent low voltage
Total
monitors. One monitor can be
Name programmed from 1.7 to 3.5V protection. A standby function
and the other from 2.4 to 3.5V. shuts down the PWM and
Address The X46402 has user selectable reduces supply current. The
security features such as LM4652 is an integrated H-
memory partitioning and bridge power MOSFET. The
password protected memory. It two ICs require no external
also includes user selectable components between them.
Postcode watchdog timeout selection Specifications include an
intervals from 200ms to 1.4s. externally controllable
Telephone
The watchdog timer function switching frequency from 50 to
Method of payment (please circle) can be disabled for system 225kHz, integrated error and
software debugging. feedback amplifiers, turn-on
Access/Mastercard/Visa/Cheque/PO Insight Memec soft start and under-voltage
Cheques should be made payable to Tel: 01296 330061 lockout, and aself-checking
Reed Business Information protected diagnostic. The
LM4651N is housed in a
Credit card no DC/DC converter 28-lead plastic DIP and the
Campbell Collins is stocking LM4652TF in a15-lead
Card expiry date
2W DC/DC converters from isolated TO-220.
Signed Newport Components. The National Semiconductor
NML isolated single-output Tel: 00 49 8141 351 443

ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 CONTROL & INSTRUMENTATION

Three-phase
L3 L1 L2 L3

(a)

power (b)
V
Bi V,
0-

+5V

1
- 1E-11- 1
t

regulator
(c) Vei
8A Advance 4— 6, Retard
angle arele

r
— .,
+5V
VC2
(d)

Tariq lqbal's three-phase linear power

(e)
regulator can control resistive loads or
induction motors. Drive outputs are opto -
isolated and regulation from zero to full load ffl

is via a single potentiometer so interfacing to

a PC should be easy, assuming all mains
isolation is properly implemented. (g)

Vcs
nnn
A
three-phase optically- Linear transfer characteristics are
(h) 0
isolated power regulator achieved using the cosine-wave
with linear characteristics is crossing method of triggering the
shown in Fig. 1over the page. It triacs.
can be used to operate athree-phase
heater load or an induction motor
In Fig. 2, operation of one of the
the power regulator's three sections
is explained using various
VT o
nLn n n
Retard angle added
with, say, afan load.
Load power is controlled from waveforms. Waveforms of the other
zero to maximum by asingle two sections of the power regulator
potentiometer producing the control are similar to Fig. 2, but delayed by
o E\ "t
V V
voltage V,.ontrol• If required, control 120° and 240° respectively.
voltage may be supplied from aPC Figure 2a) shows typical three-
using ad-to-a converter card. phase line waveforms. These line Fig. 2. Timings involted in the three-phase linear power
In this power regulator, the power voltages are stepped down using regulator, with mains input at the top and power output at
stage and signal stages are isolated three transformers. Full-wave the bottom.
via light-activated S2IME3G triacs. rectified output of line the L1

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 639

CONTROL & INSTRUMENTATION
5332

41— 7905
7805 o
r +5V

o -5V
2200µ 2200µ 01122

1N4001 90k

1
>I
9k1

0
2k
+5V

VE31 2k1
6 • • 9k1 YI
A
k /4
3.0W 1N4001
348

9k1 Yo 1/
3 4053
0µ22

/4 339 --II--
90k
•- 1/VV\I— •
9k1
2k 11/1A,-•—
+5V

9k1
k—-___+714 348

0µ22

— II--
1N4001 90k

9k1
2k 1/V1/1 •

2k1 9k1
16
k 1
/4 348
1.5W 1N4001
9k1 1/
3 4053
0µ22

I
A339
90k
•--1/1/V\t—•
9k1
2k
+5V

k 9k1
4348

01.122

l
g4001
i 90k

+5V 9k1
2k 4 1W ,• +5V
+5V

6 2k1
• >I 2k14.—~,
9k1 1
/4 3443
1.5W 1N4001
9k1 1/
3 4053
Op22

/
4 339 --II--
90k

9k1
2k '
VVV\., •
+5V
+5V

9k1
I 4k7 k /4 348

1k

640 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 CONTROL & INSTRUMENTATION

Fig. 1. Three-phase linear power

regulator control and drive
circuitry for resistive loads and
induction motors. Triacs shown
can handle about 10A each,
resistive.

+5V +IV

2k1 2k1
1N4001
+ V
Vc, 4 transformer is shown in Fig.
A 339
I
2b). This is compared with a
100R
small voltage Vo to generate

LT
1N4001
advance and retard angles.
14 2N2222A
Advance and retard angles, ea
VT and 0d, are required to make
15OR
sure that there is some voltage
across the triac before it is
VA triggered.
2N6344 Figure 2c) shows the advance
7 1
&"
and retard angle for phase LI.
521ME3G A further comparator generates
areference waveform, Vc2 ,
required for the isolation of
two half cycles of cosine
waves.
Two 180°-shifted biased
1N400112k1
2k1 /
cosine waves are generated
v, using two integrators, Fig. 1.
Both 2kf2 potentiometers of
3-phase
+5V heater
each integrator should be
/4 339 or motor adjusted to obtain integrator
outputs as in Figs 2e) and f).
380V
100R 10A Load Using reference voltage Vc2
(max) and a4053 multiplexer, two
1N4001
2N2222A cosine waveforms are
combined to generate a
15OR reference cosine triggering
waveform Fig. 2g). This is
10OR
needed to achieve the power
2k1 9k1 VA regulator's linear transfer
2N6344
Owl characteristic.
9k1
Voltage V, and the reference
521ME3G
cosine waveform are compared
to generate the respective firing
1/
4 339 angle, 13, as in Fig. 2h). An
+5V AND function using two diodes
and atransistor produces
advance and retard angles.
1N4001 +F 2k1
2k1
The resulting waveform, Fig.
+5V 2i), is used for triggering the
14 triac connected to phase Liof
/
4 339 the supply. Three similar
sections of the power regulator
1N4001 make sure that all three triacs
2N2222A are fired at exactly equal delay
angle 5.
_ 150R Iused a2N6344 power triac
ji OUR in the original design. It is
3k9
capable of carrying 10A load.
VA
2N6344
If required, high current
0141 devices may be used. •
VCooIr slOk
521ME3G—

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 641

RF DESIGN

The
commo -mode
resistor
I
Ian Darney describes a simple t's frustrating to hear news that an tromagnetic interference — EMI for
item of equipment that you have short —to be represented by avoltage
method of minimising just developed has failed its formal source in series with the structure.
test for electromagnetic compatibility, Since there are three conductors,
interference on a cable i.e. EMC. It is especially frustrating there are two loops, the 'common-
when agreat deal of time and effort mode loop' carrying interference cur-
connecting a transmitter and has gone into the design to prevent rent, and the 'signal loop' carrying sig-
such an eventuality. nal or supply current.
receiver. The same technique is The purpose of this article is to explain
valid for reducing EMI coming how such things can happen, and to Making a circuit model
describe asolution to the problem. It is possible to construct a circuit
from the interconnection. Figure 1identifies the main factors model of this configuration, as in Fig.
affecting EMC. The objective is to 2. Component values can either be cal-
transmit an electrical signal from a culated from physical parameters, or
transmitter to areceiver, using cable measured with general purpose test
conductors to carry the current. If the equipment'.
cable is along one, then two conduc- In this model, the inductive and resis-
tors are needed to perform this function tive values assigned to the return con-
efficiently. For a 500MHz signal, ductor, L2 and R2,can be described as
'long' means greater than 150cm. the transfer impedance.
These two conductors are identified Analysis of the coupling between the
in the diagram as 'supply' and 'return'. two loops is a straightforward task,
Inevitably, a third conductor is given the availability of circuit analysis
involved, variously described as software 2.
'earth', 'ground', or 'structure'. This Such a model can provide a very
carries any fault current, and acts as a accurate simulation of the response at
shield. low and intermediate frequencies,
In the presence of an external elec- where resistance and inductance are the
Fig. 1. EMC design fundamentals. In electronics, signals tromagnetic field, spurious currents significant parameters. The effect of
are carried from one point to another via conductors. will be generated in the structure, and capacitance in creating resonance peaks
The structure of these conductors becomes more these will create voltages along the sur- and troughs can also be predicted with
important as frequency increases. face. Circuit theory allows this elec- fair accuracy.
It is possible to develop the model to
Near end Far end simulate the response at even higher
Interconnecting cable frequencies, by connecting several ele-
ments in series, in the same way that a
ladder network is formed to simulate a
Supply transmission line. But the task then
Signal Signal
becomes tedious.
transmitter Signal loop receiver
interface interface Simplified approach
Return
Besides, there is no need to invoke
such complexities.
Common mode loop
Using the concept of equivalent cir-
cuits, the inductors L2 and L3 can be
combined, to represent the inductance
Structure of the cable. A similar process can be
applied to the resistive and capacitive
Interference voltage parameters of the supply and return

ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 RF DESIGN

conductors. It is then asimple matter to R3 L3 Fig. 2. Basic circuit

create asingle T-network representa- model of three
2 2
tion of the cable/structure assembly. parallel conductors.
Supply
Analysing this using transmission- • This provides fair
line theory provides aresponse char- R2 L2 R2 L2 accuracy up to a
acteristic for the common-mode loop quarter-wave
Retum frequency.
current.
If this current is assumed to flow in R1 Li
the transfer impedance, the voltage 2 2
across this impedance can be calculat- "A",—Irtr'—«! Structure
ed. This transfer voltage' can then be
Near end Far end
simulated by avoltage source in series
with the signal loop, and the currents
and voltages in this loop are now
ciT c'T
amenable to analysis.
Using this method, each loop can be
treated as atwo-conductor transmission Fig. 3. Floating
line. configuration at its
first resonance point -
Transfer impedance i.e. quarter-wave.
The key to this approach is the ability Common-mode loop
to assign a value to the transfer
impedance, and this can only be deter-
mined from the initial circuit model.
For awire pair, it is the inductance of
the wire in series with its resistance 3. Structure i °
Current Voltage
For acoaxial cable, it is just the resis-
tance of the screen 3. Any voltage
developed by interference current in
the screen can be expected to be
extremely low, giving ahigh level of
common-mode rejection in the system.

v= 24x10 8 MiS fi — Hz
Choice of configuration 4x/
The reasoning so far points to the use
of coaxial cable to carry signals, and to
the choice of the characteristic
impedance as the value for the resistors Fig.4. Half-wave
at each end of the line. This gives the resonance response of
most efficient method of transmitting a the common-mode
Common-mode loop loop when both ends
signal between two locations in asys-
tem, and the least risk of interference. of the return
No surprises there. conductor are
A choice still needs to be made on Structure grounded.
the best method of interfacing with the
structure. Grounding and floating are
Current Voltage
the two most obvious options.

Floating. The response of the floating

configuration when the frequency
reaches the first resonance point is Fig. 5. Test set up for
shown in Fig. 3. When the quarter coaxial cable -
wavelength of the interference is equal grounded. Here, the
_ V
to the length of the cable, an open cir- /2 7d Hz 'supply' conductor is
cuit at the far end of the line looks like the core of acoaxial
a short circuit at the near end. High cable.
amplitude current flows in the return
conductor, creating a high amplitude
511. , Return (screen)
transfer voltage, and a high level of
interference in the signal loop. Supply
Infection
transformer
Grounding. Response of the common- 51

mode loop when both ands of the

return conductor are grounded is
shown in Fig. 4. Here, the half-wave- Near end
Far end
length of the interference is equal to the
Conner pipe
length of the line. In this situation, (structure)
there is ahigh current at both ends of
the cable, and again, a high level of
EMI.

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 643

RF DESIGN

set of spot frequencies. Results are

shown on Fig. 6. These confirm that at
low frequencies the common-mode
rejection is fairly low —albeit useful.
As the frequency increases, the situ-
ation improves, with the level of inter-
o
ference dropping at 20dB per decade.
At the quarter-wave frequency, the
common-mode rejection ratio is excel-
Common-mode

lent. But that is as far as it goes.

Thereafter, things take aturn for the
worse, and the interference level reach-
es apeak at the half-wave frequency,
and another at the full-wave frequency.
When the cable is grounded at both
ends, the first peak is at I0.8MHz, and
the second at just over 20MHz. At
these frequencies, the common-mode
10kHz 100kHz 1MHz 10M Hz
rejection, even for acoaxial cable, is
less than 20dB.
Fig. Frequency
6. Hence, the floating configuration can
response of be expected to cause high levels of Set-up Response of floating
grounded interference at the quarter-wave fre- In the set-up of Fig. 5, the 'supply' configuration
configuration quency, and the grounded configura- conductor was the coaxial core, the For the second test, the link between
confirms that tion will be subjected to high interfer- 'return' was the screen, and 'structure' screen and ground at the far end was
common-mode ence at the half-wave frequency. was the copper pipe. removed, giving afloating configura-
rejection at low Transmission line theory indicates At the far end of the cable, a 51f1 tion, and the test repeated. Results
frequencies is there will be many such peaks. resistor was linked between supply and recorded in Fig. 7show that this con-
low, but useful. return. At the near end, aT-network figuration gives excellent performance
Making a test rig was used to provide a50L2 termination, at low and intermediate frequencies.
The best way of determining the height and decouple the cable-under-test from This is marred by the response at high
of these peaks is to build atest rig and the test equipment. frequencies, which follows apattern of
make actual measurements. So Ibuilt A toroidal transformer was used to peaks and troughs.
one. inject asine wave of about IV peak to The frequency of first peak was mea-
This rig consisted of a length of peak into the common-mode loop. An sured as 5.3MHz, and the second peak
15mm copper pipe fixed round the oscilloscope was used to measure the occurred when the generator recorded
walls of aroom. Iattached awooden input voltage and the differential volt- 15.4MHz.
batten along the pipe to provide 12mm age appearing between supply and
separation between cable and pipe. return. Problem and solution
RG59 coaxial cable was fixed along The ratio of the output to input volt- Hence, both configurations suffer from
the batten using cable ties. age was the common-mode rejection the problem of resonance, which caus-
Fig. 7. Frequency An aluminium box was clamped to ratio. es unwelcome peaks to occur in the
response of each end of the pipe, to provide a frequency response.
floating mounting surface for terminal strips. Response of grounded But what can be done about this
configuration This provided aconvenient method of configuration problem? Transmission-line theory
shows excellent interfacing with the test equipment. For the first test, the cable was ground- points to the use of resistors at the
performance at The length of cable between the two ed at both ends, the equipment was cable interfaces to damp down the level
low and medium terminal strips was 11.7m. connected as shown on Fig. 5, and the of any resonance. It also points to the
frequencies. common mode rejection measured at a method of selecting aresistance value
that will eliminate that resonance —
namely, the characteristic impedance.
o !lilt! ! I P FII/1111 I I I But how can resistance be inserted in
the common-mode loop without adding
—1 0- unnecessary impedance to the signal
loop? One answer to this lies in the use
Common mode rejection ratio

of a well known circuit component;

-20- that is, the common-mode transformer.

-30- The common-mode resistor

Iwound asmall toroid with five bifilar
turns of 22SWG enamelled copper
-40 —
wire and connected it as in Fig. 8.
In this set-up, a 240C1 resistor is
—50- inserted in the common-mode loop.
Any current in the screen of the cable
develops avoltage across one winding
-60 —
of the transformer. This creates an
equal voltage in series with the supply
I A huAi I k I I Alit
conductor. The net result is that the
1Uk Hz 1 01, HZ. IMHz 1Otv1Hz interference voltage appearing across

644 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 RF DESIGN

the common-mode resistor is cancelled

Common-mode transformer Link removed for tests or
out, and does not appear at the input Common-mode resistor floating configuration
Maplin FX4054
terminals of the monitor circuitry.
5bitilar turns
The presence of aresistor in the com-
mon-mode loop acts to limit any cur- 51
rent in that loop. Since a resistor is
used, there is no dependence on fre-
quency, and the current peaks will be
limited, no matter where in the spec-
trum they occur.
Figure 9compares the results of test- Fig. 8. Inserting acommon-mode resistor.
ing the grounded configuration with
and without the common-mode resis-
tor. Data used for the dotted curve was
o
the same as used for Fig. 6.
Using alinear frequency scale makes
the comparison easier. Both peaks are —10 —
reduced dramatically. Significant
Common-mode rejection ratio

improvement in the low-frequency

response is also achieved. The trans- —20 —
former is effective at 10kFlz and above.
Figure 10 demonstrates that the
same action occurs with the floating —30 —
configuration. The first peak was
reduced by more than 20 dB, the sec-
ond by more than 30 dB. —40 —

Review and deductions

—50 —
Ihave shown that resonances can occur
in the interconnecting cables of sys-
tems, creating large currents. Coupling —60 —
via the transfer impedance induces high
levels of interference in the signal loop.
The effect occurs whether the configu-
ration is grounded or floating. o 51v1 Hz 10M Hz 15MHz 20M Hz
It is possible to reduce the amplitude
of the current at resonance by inserting Fig. 9. Frequency response of grounded configuration, comparing results of testing the grounded
aseries resistance between ground and configuration with and without the common-mode resistor.
cable screen at agrounded termination.
It is equally possible to reduce the
amplitude of voltage reflections at a o
floating termination.
Ihave also shown that acommon-
-10 —
mode resistor improves low-frequency
performance. Since the braid of acoax-
Common-mode rejection ratio

ial cable acts both as ascreen and as a -20 _

return conductor, it was necessary to
include acommon-mode transformer
in circuit. If the braid were to act sole- -30 _
ly as ashield, as with ascreened wire
pair, there would be no need for the
transformer. -40 —
The cable/structure loop has been
treated as a transmission line. It is
equally valid to regard it as an antenna. -50 —
The floating configuration can be treat-
ed as awhip aerial. When the cable is
-60 —
grounded at both ends, it becomes part
of aloop antenna. Whatever the con-
figuration, EMI can be absorbed by
inserting acommon-mode resistor in 0 5MHz 10MHz 15MHz 20MHz
the loop at each cable,/equipment inter-
face. Fig. 10. Frequency response of floating configuration, again with and without the common-mode
Thus far, the reasoning has been in resistor.
terms of minimising the susceptibility
of asystem. If the objective had been References
to reduce the level of emissions, the I. Darney, I, 'Bench Testing for EMC', Electronics World, February 2000.
approach would have remained sub- 2. Spiceage — Analogue circuit simulator for PCs and compatible computers. Those Engineers, 31
stantially the same, and the same solu- Birkbeck Rd, London NW7 4BP.
tion would have been proposed. • 3. Darney, I, 'Grounding, Floating and Screening', IEE Seminar, 27 January 2000.

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 645

 BOO . BUY
Antennas and Propagation for Wireless
Communication Systems

ANTENNAS AND Antennas and propagation are the key factors influencing the robustness and
quality of the wireless communication channel. This book introduces the basic
concepts and specific applications of antennas and propagation to wireless
PROPAG ATIQN systems, covering terrestrial and satellite radio systems in both mobile fixed
FOR WIRELESS contexts.

COMMUNseON Including:
• Illustrations of the significance and effect of the wireless propagation channel
• Overview of the fundamental electromagnetic principles underlying
propagation and antennas
• Basic concepts of antennas and their application to specific wireless systems
siON R S‘t \pigs • Propagation measurement modelling and prediction for fixed links, macrocells,
microcells, picocells and megacells
• Narrowband and wideband channel modelling and the effect of the channel on
communication system performance
• Methods that overcome and transform channel impairments to
CONTENTS enhance performance using diversity, adaptive antennas and
Introduction: The Wireless equalisers.

Communication Channel • Antennas and propagation is a vital source of information for wireless

Properties of Electromagnetic communication engineers as well as for students at postgraduate or senior

undergraduate levels.
Waves • Propagation
Distinctive features of this book are:
Mechanisms •Basic
• Examples of real world practical system problems of communication system
Propagation Models •Terrestrial
design and operation
Fixed Links •Satellite Fixed
• Extensive worked examples
Links •Macrocells •Shadowing • End of chapter questions
•Narrowband Fast Fading • •Topical and relevant information for and about the wireless industry
Wideband Fast Fading
Microcells •Picocells •
Megacells •Diversity • How to pay
Equalisers •Adaptive Antennas • J Ienclose a cheque/bank draft for £
Future Developments in the (payable to Reed Business Information)
Wireless Communications
Channel 'Appendices Please charge my credit/charge card
J Mastercard J American Express J Visa J Diners Club
416pp £39.95
Credit Card No: Expiry Date:

Post your completed order form to:-

Jackie Lowe, Room L333, Quadrant

Signature of Cardholder
House, The Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey,

SM2 5AS

Phone your credit card order: Send my order to: (please use capitals)
020 8652 3614
Name

Fax your completed order form to

Address
020 8652 8111

email: [email protected]
Post Code Tel:

POSTAGE FREE Fax: Date

For air delivery add £5.50 postage
Please allow up to 28 days for delivery
 SPECTRUM ANALYSERS
SPECIAL OFFERS HP8562A 1KHz-22GHz . ....
ADVANTEST R2261A 9KHz-2.6GHz Synthesised
£9000

£4000
TEKTRONIX 2445A SINAD EATON/AILTECH 757 0001-22GHZ £2500
4Charnel 150MHz delay MEASUREMENTS TEKTRONIX 492 50KHz-18GHz .. £3500
sweep cursors/ readout H.P. 855813 with Main frame 100KHz-1500MHz £1250
HP 853A (Dig Frame) with 8559A 100Khz-21GHz.
£750 MARCONI 893C AF POWER METER MARCONI 2922E
SYN AM FM SIG GEN 10KHz •1.01 GHz
£2750
300y watts-30 wafts. 20Hz-35KHz. MARCONI 2382 100Hz-400MHz High Resolution £2000
2.5 Ohm -2014 Ohms 13 K2033R Signal Anahiser £1500
TEKTRONIX 475 Marconi 893C unused, boxed
ADVANTEST TR4131 10KHz-3.5GHz £2750
„It 0, Chid Trace 200MHz MARCONI 2370 30HZ-110MHz from £500

,
,
HP141 Systems 8553 1KHz-110MHz from £500.
• de:! delay sweep ma 893B to 10 watts rm. (Z)
8554 500KHz -1 250Mi-lz £'50 8555 10MHz-
I8GH: from 01000

•
.. •
•••
•. •lie £400 GOULD J3B SINE/SQ OSCILLATOR
9 • RADIO COMMUNICATIONS TEST SETS UNUSED OSCILLOSCOPES
10Hz-1200KHz. Low
MARCONI 2610 TRUE RUS VOLTMETER distortion Balanced TEKTRONIX TDS350 Dual Trace 200MHz 1GSSec £1506

cc, .•.
lit4RCOsi2901
Digita. LCD • £1100

meter 5Hz - •• IMACCNi 29554 02590

£1000
•«. SAXON 2019 Syrel AWN Sg Gen 8014H4-1041411: £475

413312>
25MHz •DC
autoranging
HP8657A SO Sg Gen 100e4-104(11Hz .. £2500 OSCILLOSCOPES
HP 86568 Syndi Sg Gel 1011094301iftz my)
PHIL ie PU30922.2 Ch 200MHZ Delay TB etc £950
AVO 8Mk 6MULTIMETER SOLARTRON 7150 HP 8656A SrdiSg Gal 1£010989011-tz £905 nyu -
ceemceic 7100 Sirti Sig Gr 1•1Flz-20G4z 05000 PHILIPS nt3082 2,2 Ch 1COMHZ Debi ek....„
TB(TROMXt*,S465 Dual Tmce 1001,1*Delai etc -
MARCOM 2017 AMJR4 Phase LodedSg Gen i0KHz-10241.11t
01200 TEKTRONIX 2465 4Ch 33£41112 Dew Sweep Curs.
eacs am satteres
1•
Good Seal Putty
Other AVOSs trom 41) TEKTRONIX 2430 Dual Trace 1
501Aliz 100Ieis
- ?640A ANN Sg Gen 500(Hz-1024MHz £403

RACAUNIA 9343M LCR Cletabeidge .%dial ., 200

AMFU Sig Cwn 510191z-512111z . £250
Itx iltNIX 2232 Dual Trace 1E0112 100185/e Cows
A* melamine* al R, C, L, 0, D.
HIGH QUALITY - - R1l6326 Sig Ge100012-18361H4 iith 20014Hz £650 0300
RACAL Rec Cozier IEEE TEKTRONIX 2212 Duel Trace 801.1940 2Caes Cows 0W-
HUNTRON TRACXER Modal 1000 £125
RACAL 9031 Srth AWRI Sig Csn 5-520ketz £350 0050
H.P. 531 5A Unwise Car* leFiz 201. .. .£80 COUNTERS HP 316A SyreFumton Gen 211.1Hz 0600
FLUKE 8050A CON eh due 2A True Rae £75 TEKTRONIX 2210 NI Trace 500MHz 21:66/e £450
MARCONI 6500 Am:elude Anerser £1500 HP 542004 Deesing 50912 0900
FLUKE 8010A DIM 3'h del 10A £50 9904 Unrversal timer counter (C)
HP 42759 LCR Aleer 130-g-1.314Hz 0750
li,l1KE 8012A DMM 3'S digq 2A £40

s.
RACAL TRUE
9916 Counter 1011z-520MHz
ED HP »ME Debt») Faroe
NA« KERR Inductance Mas/ser 3245
£750
0050
PHILIPS PM3217 -v«induiln2
Yee '
Dual Trace 50MHz Delay
ll'es
2websi
Poucn and Front
H.P 8112A Rase Gteerala 5061414 £1250 Cove ,
RMS 9918 Counter 10Hz-560MHz 9digit 43:111
DAMON Red lAbeser6-.-7, clgi 10651061A 1071
VOLTMETERS korn US£600
9300 5HZ-20MHZ usabie to
10 volts 316V 41) I_
UMI•1
"la y
FARRELL
AMM255
ON 2440 Frequency Ccuriler2OGHz
HP 53599 Regercy CoJler 20GHz
HP 5342410H4-166Hz keg Cooler
93000 version
Automate Mod Meter AM/FM 15MHz- (ID FARNEIL API On Pone Sexy
2GHz 35 digit LCD Display Unused Wee. .4P7010 Paw Stun THIS IS THE
GOODWILL PS PU5418 1/ 4Cdour Passm Grader Ishà We e' BEST CHEAP
GVT427 DUAL CHANNEL AC
MILL 'VOLTMETER
Also available
FARNELL AMM2000 Automatic Mod Meter IMI
)
ps P1,6418TX1 Cdo.iP Paige Geredd weij SCOPE YOU WILL
100V 300V in 12 ranges BAK Accebader de 4366 EVER BUY" ,
10H2-2 4GHz Unused . sA
Frequency 10Hz-1MHz HP 116833 Dual Oredbal Cads 2661r BGric
MARCONI 2305 Mod Meter 500KH4-2GHz Eir) HP 116911)Cid Deeded Oder 21/Hz-HIGH2 GOULD 0$1100 Dual trace 30MHz
Used £100 Unused £125
fOr
11MONIX P61098 Pide Inez Readol Uwe
TEKTRONIX P61964 Pide 25akz Readout Urusec
delay very bnght Supplied with
manual and 2probes
£200
STEWART of READING
110 WYKEHAM ROAD, READING, BEAKS RG6 1PL USED EQUIPMENT -GUARANTEED. Manuals supplied
Telephone (01 18) 9268041 Fax (01 18) 9351696 This is VERY SMALL SAMPLE OF STOCK SAE or telephone for lists Please check availability before
Callers welcome 9am-5 30pm Monday to Friday (other times by arrangement) ordering CARRIAGE all units £16 VAT to be added to total of goods and carriage

CIRCLE NO. 118 ON REPL1 CARD

LANGREX SUPPLIES LTD

PHONE DISTRIBUTORS OF ELECTRONIC VALVES FA X New concept in data logging
020 8684 TUBES AND SEMICONDUCTORS AND I.C.S. 020 8684
PC-based data logging and control are
.1 MAYO ROAD •CROYDON •SURREY CRO 2QP 3056
1166 24 HOUR EXPRESS MAIL ORDER SERVICE ON STOCK ITEMS
combined in one tiny package!
email: [email protected] MiniLC
c p KT66 Special 20 00 5Z4GT
6A05
300
2.00
6U8A
6V6G
1.50
10.00
Connected to printer port
AZ31 8.00 KT88 Special 20.00
CL33 10 00 N78 800 6AR5 6.00 6V6GT
6X4
6.00
300 8 12-bit ana. inputs (0-2.5V)
E88CC 850 0A2 3.00 6AS7G 7.50
El8OF 350 0132 3.00 6AU5GT 4.00 6X5GT
12AT7
3.00
34343
8 digital outputs (TTL level)
8810F 2000 0C3 3.00 6A06 200
EABC80 4.00 003 300 6AW8A 4.00 12AU7
12 AX 7
3.50
5.00
Terminal board
E891 150 PCF80 2.00 6B4G 22.00
EBF80 1.50 PCL82 200 6BA6
6E3E6
1. 50
1. 50
12AX7A
12AX7WA
7.50
6.00
DOS and Win programs
EBF89 1.50 PCL85/805 2.50
EBL31 25 00 PCL86 2.50 6BH6
61307A
2.00
12BA6
1213E6
2.00
2.00
I/O drivers for TP6 and Win
ECC33
ECC35
12.00
12 00
PD500
PL36
8.00
300 69R7
2.03
4.00 12E1417 1000 £79.99 + Vat Various sensors available
6BR8 4 _00
12BY7A 7.00
ECC81 300 PL81 2.00
6BW6 4. 00
12DW7 1500
ECC82 5.00 PL504 3.00
ECC83 300
5.00
PL508 100 6BW7
6BX7GT
3.00
730
12E1
13E1
10.00
85.000 Solid State Sound Recorder
ECC85 PL509/519 10.00
61326 3.00 572B 27.50
ECC88
ECC808
6.00
15.00
PL802
PY500A
400
300 6C4 2.00 805
807
45.00
7.50
- 10 second, 1sound track
ECF80 1.50 PY800/801 1.50 6CB8A 3.00 I.C11113 ••
- 20 second, 1or 4tracks
e
6DC6G 5.00 811A 1000 .4 de
ECH35 3.50 00V02-6 12.00
6CL6 3.00 812A 5500
ECH42 3.50 001/03-10 5.00
ECH81 100 00V03-20A 10.00 6CG7 7.50 813
833A
27.50
85 00
- Small size: 42 x24 mm
ECL82 100 00V06-40A 12.00 6CH6 3.00
ECL86 100 U19 8.00 6CW4 6.00 866A
872A
20 00
30.00
10 sec. £7.00 + Vat
ECLL8043 2500 UABC80 1.60 6005 17 .50 .t

EF37A 150 UCH42 5.50 6D06E1 10 .00 931A

2050A
2500
12.50 Org 001>0 00 S
»
. »° ;';i eL5
20 sec. £7.90 + Vat
EF39 2.75 UCL82 2.00 6F6G 8.00
6F07 7. 50 5687WB 6.00
EF40 4.00 UCL83 2.00
UF89 4.00 661(6 4.00 5751 6.00
EF86
EF91
5.00
2.00 UL41 12.00 6J5G 6.00 5763 8.00 We also supply other sound loggers, and...
5814A 5.00
2.00 uLs4 3.00 6J5M 4.00
EF183/4
EL33 1500 UY41 4.00 617 3.00 58e
6072A
12.00
6.00
Centronic port I/O Card £40 + Vat
EL34 seo UY85 2.00 6JB6A 27 .50
EL34G 5.00 YR1 05/30 3.00 6JE6C 27.50 60130
61468
6.00
15.00
Expand a printer port into 24 programmable I/0s
EL36 500 VR150/30 3.00 6JS8C 27.50

EL41 3.50 2759 1000 6K6GT 4.00 6201

6336 A
8.50
35.00
RS232 port I/O Card £37 + Vat
EL84 2.25 2803U 1500 6L6G 1500
6550A 25.00
EL95 2.00
15.00
2021 350 6L6GC
6L6WGB
17.50
10.00 688313 15.00 Expand an RS232 port into 8 inputs and 8outputs
EL360 31328 12.00
607 3.00 7025 7.50
EL509/519 7.50 4CX250B 45.00
7027A 26.00
EM34 25.00 5R4GY 7.50 6SA7
6SC7
3.00
3.00 7360 26.00 WWW.intec-group.co.uk
E188114/7 5.00 504G 10.00
6SG7 3.03 7581A 1500
EN91 7.50 5U4GB 10.00
EZ80/E7J31 5.00 5V40 5.00 6S.I7 3.00 7586
7587
15.00
20.00
lntec Associates Limited
8.50 5Y3GT 2.50 6SK7 3.00
DZ32
GZ33/37 15.00 5Z3 5.00 6SL7GT 500 Prices correct when Tel: 44(0) 161 477 5855 Fax: 44(0) 161 477 5755
KT61 15 00 5Z4G 600 6SN7GT 750 going to press
Email: mail@ intec-group.co.uk
OPEN TO CALLERS MON-FRI 9AM-4PM. CLOSED SATURDAY
This is a selection from our stock of over 1000 types. Please enquire for types not listed.
Obsolete items are our speciality. Valves are new mainly original British or American brands. V 'A
VISA
a". Flea tro
VISA Terms
P&P CWO/min
1-3 valves order
£2.00.£10
4-5for
valves
credit£3.
cards.
00

Add 17.5°. VAT to total including P&P fa

(1R( 11 \O 119 O\ RÍPI 1 ( IRO CIRCLE NO. 820 ON REPLY CARD

647
August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD
 T his book is the definitive study of the life and
works of one of Britain's most important
inventors who, due to acruel set of
circumstances, has all but been overlooked by
history.
Alan Dower Blumlein led an extraordinary life in
which his inventive output rate easily surpassed that
of Edison, but whose early death during the darkest
days of World War Two led to ashroud of secrecy
which has covered his life and achievements ever
since.
His 1931 Patent for aBinaural Recording System
was so revolutionary that most of his contemporaries
regarded it as more than 20 years ahead of its
time. Even years after his death, the full magnitude
of its detail had not been fully utilized. Among his
128 patents are the principal electronic circuits
critical to the development of the world's first
electronic television system. During his short working
life, Blumlein produced patent after patent breaking
entirely new ground in electronic and audio
Robert Charles l\-.19.xancler engineering.
During the Second World War, Alan Blumlein was
deeply engaged in the very secret work of radar
Post your completed order form to:-
development and contributed enormously to the
Jackie Lowe, Room L514, Quadrant House, system eventually to become 'H2S' -blind-bombing
The Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey, SM2 SAS radar. Tragically, during an experimental H2S flight
in June 1942, the Halifax bomber in which Blumlein
Phone your credit card order: 020 8652 3614 and several colleagues were flying, crashed and all
Fax your completed order form to 020 8652 8111 aboard were killed. He was just days short of his
thirty-ninth birthday.
UK Price: £17.50 Europe £20.00 ROW £22.00 For many years there have been rumours about a
Paperback price includes delivery biography of Alan Blumlein, yet none has been
forthcoming. This is the world's first study of aman
How
(- to pay whose achievements should rank among those of
(Ellumlein) paperback the greatest Britain has produced. This book
provides detailed knowledge of every one of his
a I enclose acheque/bank draft for £
patents and the process behind them, while giving
(payable to Reed Business Information)
an in-depth study of the life and times of this quite
Please charge my credit/charge card extraordinary man.
J Mastercard J American Express J Visa J Diners Club

Credit Card No: Expirey Date:

Contents
Earliest days
Telegraphy and telephony
Signature of Cardholder The audio patents
Television
Cardholder's statement address: (please use capitals)
EMI and the Television Commission
Name The high- definition television period
From television to radar
Address
The story of radar development
H2S -The coming of centimetric radar
The loss of Halifax V9977
Legacy
Post Code Tel: To Goodrich Castle and beyond
'Visit our website I THE ORIGINAL SURPLUS WONDERLAND! Surplus always 1
,wanted for cash!
www.distel.co.uk THIS MONTH'S SELECTION FROM OUR VAST EVER CHANGING STOCKS

THE AMAZING TELEBOX IC's -TRANSISTORS -DIODES 19" RACK CABINETS

Converts your colour monitor into aQUALITY COLOUR TV' ,
OBSOLETE -SHORT SUPPLY -BULK Superb quality 6foot 40U
10,000,000 items EX STOCK Virtually New, Ultra Smart
TV SOUND & For MAJOR SA VINOS
Less than Half Price!
VIDEO TUNER CALL OR SEE OUR WEB SITE wvAv.distel.co.uk Top quality 19' rack cabinets made in UK by
s sittI# CABLE COUPA TIBLE'
VIDEO MONITOR SPECIALS Optima Enclosures Ltd. Units feature
designer, smoked acrylic lockable front door,

Afru
One of the highest specification full height lockable half louvered back door
The TELEBOX a an attractive fuly cased mans powered u1it. contanng al and louvered removable side panels. Fully
eiedroncs ready to plug into ahost ol video mentors or AV equipment whcir monitors you will ever see -A adjustable internal fixing struts, ready punched
are fitted with accfreoste video or SCART input The composite video output At this price -Don't miss it!! for any configuration of equipment mounting
will also plug drectty into most video recorders, aloweg reception of TV chan- .plus ready mounted integral 12 way 13 amp
nels not normally receivable on most television receivers' (TELEBOX Mitsubishi FA3415ET(L 14" SVGA Multisync coeur monitor with fne socket switched mains distribution strip make
MB) Push button controls on the front panel allow reception of 8It* tuneable 028 dot botch tube and resolution of 1024 x768. A these racks some of the most versatile we
'off ar' UHF odour teievision channels. TELEBOX MB COverS Vituatly al televii wile of rçuts slows ccrnecticn to ahost of comput- have ever sold. Racks may be stacked side by side and therefore
sun frequencies VHF and UHF =hiding the HYPERBAND as used by ers nduing NW PC's ri CGA EGA VGA 8 SVGA require only two side panels to stand singly or in multiple bays
most cede TV operators. Ideal for desktop compubk video systems 8 PIP modes, BBC, COMMODORE Including Arte 1200), Overall dimensions are: 7714' H x32 , /:' D x22' W Order as:
(picture rl picture) setups. For complete compatblity -even for monitors without ARCHIMEDES and APPLE. Many features. Etched OPT Rack 1Complete with removable side panels £345.00 (G)
sound -an ntegal 4watt aude amplifier and low en?' Hi Fi aude output are facepkste, tee switching and LOW RADIATION MPFI
spec/cation Fully guaranteed, n EXCELLENT little OPT Rack 2 Rack Less side iane s £245.00 G
provided as standard Brand new -July guaranteed.
TELEBOX ST for composite video input type monitors £36.95 used ocnditen Order as Over 1000 racks, shelves, accessories
TELEBOX STL as ST but fitted with integral speaker £39.50 Tilt& Swivel Base £4.75 Only £119 (El MfTS-SVGA
TELEBOX MB Multiband VHF/UHF/Cabie/Hyperband tuner £69.95 VGA cable for IBM PC Included. 19" 22" & 24" wide 3 to 46 U high.
For overseas PAL versions state 5.5 or 6 ml-it sound specification.
•For cable /hyperband signal reception Telebox MB should be con-
External cables for other types of computers available -CALL Available from stock!!
nected 1g acable type service. Shipping on all Telebox's, code (B) Ex demo 17" 0.28 SVGA Mitsubishi Diamond Pro
State of the art PAL (UK spec) UHF TV tuner module monitors, Full multisync etc. 32U -High Quality -All steel RakCab
with composite 1V pp video 8 NICAM hi fi stereo sound Full 90 day guarantee. Only £199.00 (E) Made by Eurooraft Enclosures Ltd to the highest possible spec,
outputs. Micro electronics all on one small PCB only 73 x160 rack features all steel construction with removable
'..•"s 52 mm enable full tuning control via a simple 3 wire link to an Just In -MIcrovItec 20" VGA (800 x600 res.) colour monitors. side, front and back doors. Front and back doors are
IBM pc type computer. Supplied complete with simple working pro- Good SR condition -from £299 -CALL for Info hinged for easy access and all are lockable with
gram and documentation. Requires +12V & + 5V DC to operate PHILIPS HCS35 (same style as CM8833) attractively styled 14" five secure 5 lever barrel locks. The front door
BRAND NEW -Order as MY00. Only £49.95 code (B) is constructed of double walled steel with a
Colour monitor with bob RGB and standard composite 15.625
See www.dieteLco.ukidete_my00.htm for picture full details 'designer style' smoked acrylic front panel to
Khz video inputs via SCART socket and separate phono jacks
Integral audio power amp and speaker for all audio visual uses. enable status indicators to be seen through the
FLOPPY DISK DRIVES 21
2 "-8"
/ Will connect direct to Amiga and Atari BBC computers Ideal for all panel, yet remain unobtrusive. Internally the rack
features fully slotted reinforced vertical fixing
video monitoring /security applications with direct connection
All units (unless stated) are BRAND NEW or removed from often to most colour cameras High quality with many features such as members to take the heaviest of 19" rack
brand new equipment and are fully tested, aligned and shipped to front concealed flap controls, VCR correction button etc Good equipment. The two movable vertical fixing struts
you with a full 90 day guarantee. Call or see our web site
used condition -fully tested -guaranteed Only £99 ' El (extras available) are pre punched for standard
w.vw.dlstel.co.uk for over 2000 unlisted drives for spares or repair Dimensions: W14' xH1244' x1514' D. ( 'cage nuts'. A mains distribution panel internal-
355" Mitsubishi MF355C-L. 1.4 Meg. Laptops only £25.95 B) ly mounted to the bottom rear, provides 8xIEC 3
PHILIPS HCS31 Ultra compact 9" colour video monitor with stan- pin Euro sockets and 1x 13 amp 3 pin switched
31
2 "Mitsubishi MF355C-D. 1.4 Meg. Non laptop
/ £18.95 B)
dard composite 15.625 Khz video input via SCART socket. Ideal utility socket. Overall ventilation is provided by
51
/"Teac FD-55GFR 1.2 Meg (for IBM pc's) RFE
4 £18.95
for all monitoring /security applications. High quality, ex-equipment fully louvered back door and double skinned top section '
51
/"Teac FD-55F-03-U 720K 40/80 (for BBC's etc) RFE
4 £29.95
fully tested & guaranteed (possible minor screen bums). In attrac- with top and side louvres. The top panel may be removed for fitting
51
/"BRAND NEW Mitsubishi MF501B 360K
4 £22.95
tive square black plastic case measuring W10' x H10' x 13W' D. of integral fans to the sub plate etc. Other features include fitted
Table top case with integral PSU for HH 5%' Floppy /HD £29.95(B
8" Shugart 800/801 8' SS refurbished 8 tested £210.00(E) 240 V AC mains powered. Only £79.00 (D) castors and floor levelers, prepunched utility panel at lower rear for
8" Shugart 810 8' SS HH Brand New £195.00(E) cable /connector access etc. Supplied in excellent, slightly used
KME 10" 15M10009 high definition colour monitors with 0.28' dot condition with keys. Colour Royal blue. External dimensions
8" Shugart 851 8' double sided refurbished 8 tested f260.00(E)
pitch. Superb clarity and modern styling., mmo1625H x635D x603 W. (64" H x25" D x2314" W )
8" Mitsubishi M2894-63 double sided NEW £295.00(E)
Operates trois any 15.625 khz sync RGB video:
8" Mitsubishi 812896-63-02U DS slimline NEW £295.00(E) Sold at LESS than a third of makers price!!
source, with RGB analog and composite sync
£245.00 (G)
Dual 8" cased drives with integral power supply 2Mb £499.00(E)
such as Atari, Commodore Amiga, Acorn
Archimedes 8 BBC. Measures only 131re x 12' x
A superb buy at only
HARD DISK DRIVES 21
2 "-14"
/ 11'. Good used condition. Only £125 (E) 42U version of the above only £345 -CALL
21i' TOSHIBA MK1002MAV 1.1Gb laptop(12.5 mm H) New £79.95
20" 22" and 26" AV SPECIALS
214' TOSHIBA MK2101MAN 2.16 Gb laptop (19 mm H) New £89.50
2V2* TOSHIBA MK4309MAT 4.3Gb laptop (8.2 mm H) New £105.00 Superbly made UK manufacture. PIL all solid state colour monitors,
12V BATTERY SCOOP -60% off!!
254' TOSHIBAMK6409MAV 3.1Gb laptop (12 7mm H) New£190.00 complete with composite video & optional sound input. Attractive A special bulk purchase from a cancelled export order brings you
2ile to 31
2 'conversion kit fr rPc's. complete with connectors £14.95
/ teak style case. Perfect for Schools, Shops, Disco. Clubs, etc.in the most amazing savings on these ultra high spec 12v DC 14 Ah
354' FUJI FK-309-26 20mb MFM I/F RFE £59.95 EXCELLENT little used condition with full 90 day guarantee. rechargeable batteries. Made by Hawker Energy Ltd, type SBS15
31/'CONNER CP3024 20 mb IDE VF (or equiv.) RFE
2 £59.95 featuring pure lead plates which offer afar superior shelf 8 guaran-
344' CONNER CP3044 40 mb IDE I/F or equiv.) FIFE £69.00 20"....£135 22"....£155 26"....£185 (F)
teed 15 year service life. Fully BT & BS6290 approved. Supplied
354' QUANTUM 40$ Prodri ve 42mb SCSI I/F, New RFE £49.00 We probably have the largest range of video monitors in BRAND NEW and boxed. Dimensions 200 wide, 137 high, 77 deep.
5%* MINISCRIBE 3425 20mb MFM I/F (or equiv.) RFE £49.95 Europe, All sizes and types from 4" to 42" call for info. M6 bolt terminals. Fully guaranteed. Current makers price over £70
514' SEAGATE ST-238R 30 mb FILL I/F Refurb £69.95
514' CDC 94205-51 40mb NH MFM I/F FIFE tested £69.95
DC POWER SUPPLIES eachOur Price £35 each (c
)or 4for £99 (E)
5%* HP 97548 850 Mb SCSI RFE tested £99.00
5%' HP C3010 2Gbyte SCSI differential RFE tested £195.00 Virtually every type of power RELAYS -200,000 FROM STOCK
8' NEC D2246 85 Mb SMD interface. New £199.00 supply you can imagine. Over
8' FUJITSU M2322K 160Mb SMD I/F RFE tested £195.00 Save ££££'s by choosing your next relay from our Massive Stocks
10,0 0 0 Power Supplies Ex Stock covering types such as Military. Octal, Cradle, Hermetically Sealed,
8' FUJITSU M2392K 2Gb SMD I/F RFE tested £345.00 Call or see our web site. Continental, Contactors, Time Delay, Reed, Mercury Wetted, Solid
Many other drives in stock - Shipping on all drives is code (Cl)
State, Printed Circuit Mounting etc. ,CALL or see our web site
TEST EQUIPMENT & SPECIAL INTEREST ITEMS vnvw.distel.co.uk for more information. Many obsolete types from
stock Save tiff's
M1TS. A FA3445ETKL 14 - Industrial spec SVGA monitors £245 HP6030A 0-200V DC 0 17 Amps bench power supply £1950
FARRELL 0-60V DC 0 50 Amps, bench Power Supplies £995 Intel SBC 486/125C08 Enhanced Multibus (MSA) New £1150 COLOUR CCD CAMERAS
FARNELL AP3080 0-30V DC 0 80 Amps, bench Suppy £1850 Nikon HFX-11 iEphiphot) exposure control unit £1450
Undoubtedly a miracle of modern technology 8
IkW to 400 kW -400 itc 3phase goyim' sources -ex stodt EPOA PHILIPS PM5518 pro TV signal generator £1250
our special buying power !A quality product fea-
IBM 8230 Type 1, Token ring base unit driver £760 Motorola VME Bus Boards 8 Components List SAE • CALL EPOA
£2500 Trio 0-18 vdc linear, metered 30 amp bench PSU New £550 turing a fully cased COLOUR CCD camera at a
Wayne Kerr RA200 Audio frequency response analyser give away price !Unit features full autolight sensing for
IBM 53E5501 Token Ring ICS 20 port lobe modules £750 Fujitsu M3041R 600 LPM high speed band printer £1950
£95 Fujitsu M3041D 600 LPM printer with network interface £1250 use in low light 8 high light •
IBM MAU Token ring distribution panel 8228-23-5050N applications. A 10 mm fixed locus
AIM 501 Low distortion Oscillator 9Hz to 330Khz, IEEE £550 Perkin Elmer 299B Infrared spectrophotometer £500
wide angle lens gives excellent focus
ALLGON 8360.11805-1880 MHz hybrid power combiners £250 Perkin Elmer 597 Infrared spectrophotometer £3500
and resolution from close up to long
Trend OSA 274 Data Analyser with G703(2M) 64 i/o £P0A VG Electronics 1035 TELETEXT Decoding Margin Meter £3250
range. The composite video output will
Marconi 6310 Programmable 2to 22 GHz sweep generator £6500 LightBand 60 output high spec 2u rack mount Video VDA's £495
£1550 Sekonic SD 150H 18 channel digital Hybrid chart recorder £1995 connect to any composite monitor or TV
Marconi 2022C 10KHz-IGHz RF signal generator (via SCART socket) and most video
Marconi 2030 opt 03 10KHz-1 3GHz signal generator,New £4995 B&K 2633 Microphone pre amp £300
£3750 Taylor Hobson Tallysurf amplifier /recorder f750 recorders. Unit runs from 12V DC so
HP1650B Logic Analyser ideal for security 8 portable applica-
HP3781A Pattern generator 8 HP3782A Error Detector £P0A ADC SS200 Carbon dioxide gas detector /monitor £1450
£1800 BBC AM20/3 PPM Meter (Ernest Turner) +drive electronics £75 tions where mains power not available.
HP6621A Dual Programmable GPIB PSU 0-7 V 160 watts Overall dimensions 66 mm wide x 117 deep x 43 high. Supplied
HP6264 Rack mount variable 0-20V 0 20A metered PSU £675 ANRITSU 9654A Optical DC-2.5G/b waveform monitor £5650
BRAND NEW 8 fully guaranteed with user data, 100's of applica-
HP54121A DC to 22 GHz four channel test set £P0A ANRITSU MS9031B1 0.6-1.7 uM optical spectrum analyser £P0A
£7900 ANRITSU ML93A optical power meter £990 tions including Security. Home Video, Web TV. Web Cams etc. etc.
HP8130A opt 020 300 MHz pulse generator. GPIB etc
HP Al. AO 8pen HPGL high speed drum plotters -from £550 ANRITSU Fibre opto characteristic test set EPOA Web ref =LK33 ONLY £99.00 or 2 for £180.00 (a)
HP DRAFTMASTER 18pen high speed plotter £750 RAS FTDZ Dual sound unit £650
£1800 RAS SBUF-E1 Vision modulator £775
EG+G Brookdeal 95035C Precision lock in amp
View Eng. Mod 1200 computerised inspection system fPOA WILTRON 6630B 12.4 /20GHz RF sweep generator £5750 SOFTWARE SPECIALS
Sony DXC-3000A High quality CCD colour TV camera £995 TEK 2445 150 MHz 4trace oscilloscope £1250 NT4 WorkStation, complete with service pack 3
Keithley 590 CV capacitor /voltage analyser £P0A TEK 2465 300 Mhz 3(X) MHz oscilloscope rack mount £1955
£3750 TEK TDS380 400Mhz digital realtime -. disk drive. EFT etc £2900 and licence -OEM packaged. ONLY £89.00 113)
Racal CR40 dual 40 channel voice recorder system
£9500 TEK TDS524A 500Mhz digital realtime +colour display etc £5100 ENCARTA 95 -CDROM, Not the latest -but at this price! £7.95
Fiskers 45KVA 3 ph On Line UPS -New batteries
Emerson AP130 2.5KVA industrial spec UPS £2100 HP3585A Opt 907 20Hz to 40 Mhz spectrum analyser £3950 DOS 5.0 on disks with concise books ciw ()Basic £14.95
£2200 PHILIPS PW1730/10 60KV XRAY generator 8 accessories £P0A Windows for Workgroups 3.11+ Dos 622 on 3.5" disks £55.00
Mann Tally MT645 High speed line printer
£945 CLAUDE LYONS 12A 240V single phase auto volt. regs £325 Wordperfect 6for DOS supplied on 354' disks with manual £24.95
Intel SBC 486/133SE Multibus 486 system. 8Mb Ram
Siemens K4400 64Kb to 140Mb demux analyser £2950 CLAUDE LYONS 100A 240/415V 3phase auto volt regs £2900 shipping charges for software is code B

DISTEL on the web II -Over 16,000,000 Items from stock -www.dIstelco.uk

••• ••• •••• ••• • •
ALL MAIL TO LONDON SHOP DISTEL© I ALLIS` ENQUIRIES 1

0208 653 3333

• • • • • •
• • •...• Dept ww, 29/35 Osborne Rd Open Mon •Sat 9:00 -5:30
••• ••••
Thornton Heath
215 Whitehorse Lane Visit our web site
• • •
South Norwood
••• ••••: • : : Surrey CR7 8PD On 68A Bus flour. www.distel.co.uk
Nr.Thornton Heath 8
Open Mon -Fri 9.00 -5:30 Solhore Park SR Roll Suebons email [email protected] FAX 0208 653 8888

-ELECTRONICS- All pnces for UK Manland UK customers add 17 5% VAT to TOTAL order amount. Mrirnum order £10. Bona Fide account orders accepted from Government, Schcds,
Universities and Local Authcf.es -mnimurn account order £50. Cheques over £100 are sub¡ect to 10 working clays clearance Carrege charges (A>£3.CO. (A1K4.00,
EST (B>£5.50, (C).£8.50, (C1) £12.50, (D)=£15.00. )E£18 (F-£20 CO, (G)=CALL Allow appro. 6days tor shipping -faster CALL Al gxds sreged to Out Standard Ccriditens

CID 28
YEARS
of Sale and unless stated guaranteed for 93days All guwattlees
to stud. Ckscounts tor %dime. Top CASH prices pad ••
aplum to base basis Al rips reserved to change prices /specifications without prof name. Orders subject
, trademarks. tradenames etc acknowledged iD Deptay Electronics 1999 E80E. 07/99.

18( If N,O. 121 ON REPLY CARD

 Interfacing
Having described TINI - a low
cost Java-based controller with
Web capabilities -Les Hughes
now explains how to go about
implementing it.

.1
. his second article examines how the designed for small, memory-limited then sit back and let it run. Output is gen-
tiny TINI controller can fit into a devices, hidden away in PDAs, cell erated dynamically by the service and dis-
web-based architecture. Made by phones and the like; resources are scarce played on your browser's screen.
Dallas Semiconductor, TINI is a Java and devices have to be cheap. Saving In order to run Servlets on TINI, you
powered networked controller with ahost 0.005p per device counts when you're need a web server and aservlet engine.
of features and interfaces, but costing only producing several million of them. Smart Software Consulting provide a
around $50. One of the really impressive things GPL'd webserver and servlet engine for
In last month's article, Ilooked at asim- about TINI is the way that a small TINI in source code format. As with any
ple 'hello-world' style network applica- resource-constrained device can steal open source software, you're free to mod-
tion. This article explains how to access some of the wind from the big boys in ify this code as you see fit and you are
TINI's external interfaces. 'enterprise computing land' and use some able to distribute you changes.
of the J2EE application programming
J2EE comes to J2ME interfaces effectively in aJ2ME environ- Creating aservlet
The Java 2Enterprise Edition —J2EE for ment. The first of these to become avail- In their simplest form, servlets have a
short — is a set of application program- able was the Java Servlet API. method that is invoked by the web server
ming interfaces and specifications. They when it receives arequest to activate the
are often employed as the enabling tech- Embedding the Web program from a client. If the client is
nologies for large scale computing pro- One of the most important pieces of soft- sending data from an HTML form, this
jects. ware that we need in order to create a method is called 'doPost' and if not,
The set includes database access, trans- J2EE/ME hybrid is a web server. Most `doGee. In order to access TINI's devices
action management, distributed software applications come web-enabled nowadays, across the net, we just need to create a
components and dynamic content genera- and TINI is no exception —it is the Tiny servlet that talks to our hardware in one of
tion for web-enabled applications: EJB, Internet Interface remember. these methods.
JMS, JTS, JSDK, JDBC, RMI; TLAs However, serving up aseries of plain,
galore! By the way, TLAs are 'three-letter static HTML is of no use to anyone any- An example application
acronyms'. more. We want real-time information con- A simple application —abasic entry sys-
Machines are resource packed, fast and cerning the devices attached to TINI, and tem — will help show how easy it is to
extremely expensive. If you've ever spent for that we need to get TINI to run code web enable an embedded controller with
more than half an hour browsing .com for us on demand. TINI.
sites, chances are that you've been using The J2EE technology for this is the Java A number of companies use Dallas
J2EE across half adozen machines with- Servlet API. Servlets are similar to the iBunons for entry control. These are most
out ever downloading an applet. Powerful Java Applets that you can download onto often based on the DS1990A, an iButton
stuff indeed. your machine except that they never leave that has aunique ID laser cut at the facto-
Java 2Micro Edition —or J2ME —is at the server. As aclient, you simply point ry. TINI of course has an iButton one-
the other end of the spectrum. It is you web browser at the servlet's URL and wire interface. It also has an RS232 port
that could be connected to an external
LCD display, as well as direct digital out-
puts that could be used to operate adoor
lock.
We could also use a web browser to
access the lock, in order to view entry
logs, upload new authorised users etc. as
this mode of operation is becoming quite
common for system administration tasks
on larger systems.
So to summarise, we'll design a lock
that,

1. reads the ROM ID from any connected

iButton
2. checks whether the user is authorised
3. sends a welcome /`Go Away' mes-
sage to the serial port which is con-

650
ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000
 CONTROL & INSTRUMENTATION

List 1. Why aweb browser to access alock in order to view entry logs, upload new authorised users etc.
//std jdk imports
import java.io.*;
import java.util.";
//std java extension imports
import javax.comm.";
import javax.servlet.";
import javax.servlet.http.*;
//Other imports
import com.ibutton.*;
import com.dalsemi.system.Clock;
import com.dalsemi.system-BitPort;
public class EntryServlet extends HttpServlet implements Runnable (
intH romID;
String s_romID;
Thread runner;
Vector accesses;
Hashtable users;
Access onewire;
BitPort cpuled;
Clock clock;
//initialise the servlet
public void mit)) throws ServletException (
//Initialise our local fields
accesses = new Vector();
clock = new Clock();
cpuled = new BitPort (BitPort.Port3Bit5);
//Lookup table - put your entries here....
users = new Hashtable();
users.put('Ox01CF2E12050000D6','The Boss');
//Start a Thread to listen to the lock
runner = new Thread(this);
runner.start();
System.out.println('EntryServlet: Started Thread

//Send the log to the Browser

public void doGet(HttpServletRequest req. HttpServletResponse resp)
throws ServletException, I0Exception (
resp.setContentType("text/htm1');
PrintWriter out = resp.getWriter();
//Output HTML Header
out.println(
".(HTML><HEAD><META HTTP-EQUIV=\*Refresh\ CONTENT=\'3\'><TITLE>Access Logs</TITLE></HEAD>");
//Output a simple style sheet for our log page...
out.println("<STYLE TYPE=\'text/css\"><!-');
out.println('BODY ( background-color: burlywood }');
out.println('Hl ( color: white; background-color: gray; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; font-weigh -
normal )");
out.println('TD ( color: green; background-color: white; font-family: \'Lucida Console\', courier, monospaceci;
font-size: lOpt )');
out.println('.heading ( color: white; background-color: gray; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12pt }');
out.println('->‹/STYLE>');
//Now Output our data
out.println("<BODY><H1>Viewing Access Log</H1>');
out.println('‹CENTER›<TABLE WIDTH=90% BORDER=0><TR›<TD CLASS=\'heading\">Log Entry</TD>‹/TR>');
//Check our access log
iffaccesses.isEmpty()) (
out.println("<TR><TD›Log is empty</TD).</TR ,.');
1 else (
for(Enumeration e . accesses.elements(); e.hasMoreElements();)
out.println('<TR><TD>'.(String)e.nextElement().'</TD›‹/TR>' );

out.println("</TABLE></CENTER›</BODY , </HTML>');
///End of doGet
//Run method, polls lock etc.
public void run() (
//First, we initialise our hardware, then we loop
try (
//Open OneWire interface
onewire = new Access();
onewire.SetAdapterType(com.dalsemi.comm.SerialPort.SERIALO, 'port0');
//Open our RS232 Port and get a PrintWriter to talk to

CommPortIdentifier portID = CommPortIdentifier.getPortIdentifier("seria 10 ');

SerialPort port = (SerialPort)portID.open('MessageDisplay' , 1000);
port.setSerialPortParams(115200,
SerialPort.DATABITS_8,
SerialPort.STOPBITS_1,
SerialPort.PARITY_NONE);
PrintWr ter out = new PrintWriter(port.getOutputStream(), true); Continued over page

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD

 CONTROL & INSTRUMENTATION

nected to some kind of display

Basic design So, instead of accessing our hard-
4. opens the door if appropriate (sim-
Our servlet needs to do two things at ware when asked by a remote web
ulated by the flashing of one of
once; listen to the web and watch for browser, we shall be polling the one-
TINI's LEDs)
people trying to gain access. This calls wire interface looking for users wish-
Also, administrators will be able to for amulti-threaded design, where one ing to gain entry. This function isn't
connect to the lock using aweb brows- thread looks after the lock and the other really anything to do with web
er in order to view access logs. the web. servers, servlets and such; we could

for
try{
//loop until we find a button
while(romID == null) {
//sleep for a while - give TINI a rest!
Thread.currentThread().sleep(500);
romID = null;

//At this point we could iterate through all connected

//buttons but for simplicity we'll assume there's
//only one button on the wire
//Select the first button on the wire if there is one
if(onewire.iBFirst()) {
//get the selected button's ROM data
romID = onewire.iBROMData();
}
)

//we now have a button - convert into into a String

StringBuffer romStr . new StringBuffer('Ox');
for (int i 0; i < 8; i..) {
if (romID[i) < Ox10) romStr.append('0');
romStr.append(Integer.toString(romID[i], 16).toUpperCase());

//Get the time of access and convert into something pretty

clock.getRTC();
int hour = clock.getHour();
int minute . clock.getMinute();
int second = clock.getSecond();
StringBuffer timeString = new StringBuffer(Integer.toString(hour));
timeString.append(":");
if (minute < 10) timeString.append('0');
timeString.append(Integer.toString(minute));
timeString.append(':');
if(second < 10) timeString.append('0');
timeString.append(Integer.toString(second));
//Lookup user's romID - this could be a database call (but not on TINI yet!!)
String user = (String)users.get(romStr.toString());
if (user == null ) {
//unauthorised access attempt!!!
accesses.addElement('Unauthorised Access Attempt (ID='.romStr.') @
* .timeString.toString());
out.println('INTRUDER ALERT!!!');
) else (

accesses.addElement(user..timeString.toString());
out.println('Greetings, .user. pull the door.');
//Lek's flash the 'CPU' LED to simulate the lock
for(int n=0;n<3;n..) {
cpuled.clear();
Thread.currentThread((.sleep(500);
cpuled.set();
Thread.currentThread().sleep(500);

)
)catch(InterruptedException interrupted) {

}finally{
//always reset the romID to null
//otherwise we won't try to read again!!
romID = null;
)
//Now go back and monitor onewire
Mend of for(;;)
)catch(Exception setupExcept) {
System.out.println('Exception in run .setupExcept.toString());

)//end of run()
MEOF

652
ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000
 CONTROL & INSTRUMENTATION

0001•001
factor this code into aseparate class to After mit in the listing comes
allow other security applications to re- doGe t().This method simply writes
use or logic. However, for the purpose out an HTML log of accesses using
of this example, we will leave every- println statements.
thing inside one class. Further down the listing comes the Task
Finishing off our design exercise, run method of our polling thread. This Scheduler Java Virtual Machine
we'll create aservlet that starts up a method contains all of our 'Security'
new thread that is responsible for mon- logic; accessing the one-wire interface, Native Methods
itoring the one-wire interface, allowing reading the ROM ID of any buttons
access to those authorised and logging found, logging and allowing/denying
any access attempts etc. The servlet access. Operating System S
half of the application will simply turn
TCP/IP LO Memory 14_ File
the log into HTML for display on a Future enhancements
Stack Manager Manager System
browser. Obviously, our EntryServlet is basic —
to say the least. There's anumber of
The code enhancements that could be developed.
Ethernet Other Gastage
List 1contains the code for our appli- Driver Drivers Collector
cation. Logically this is divided into • Refactor the code into separate 17 —
two parts; the servlet methods (mit 'security' and 'servlet' classes.
and doGet) and the reader thread • Enhance the one-wire scanning
method (run). The first few lines of logic —perhaps two people's
Hardware I
code import various library classes. A iButtons are needed to gain entry
number of local fields (variables) are to ahigh-security area?
next declared. Following these lines, • Implementing adoPost method Although very low cost, this controller is acomplete
comes the first of the servlet methods that allows new users to be added computer with Internet, network and serial i/o
— init ().This method is called once to the lock from abrowser, taking capabilities, giving it huge potential for remote i/o and
this idea further we could: telemetry applications.
when the servlet engine loads the
servlet and performs initialisation • Develop an intra-lock protocol
tasks. In our case, this involves creat- that allows multiple locks to talk
ing our local objects and starting the to acentral service for user
lock polling thread. verification, central logging etc. •

Too good
for words
The New Ranger
XL Series
Ranger 2for Windows £170
NEW Ranger 2XL £500
NEW Ranger XL from £950
FREE Website Download Demo

à I eldriedLeiM
Advanced Systems & Technology for PCB Manufacturers

Old Buriton time Works. Bunion. Petersfield. Hants. UK GU3I 5S1

[email protected] vanem.seetrax.corn Tel: (44) 01730 260062 Fax: (44) 01730 267273

CIRCLE NO. 122 ON REPLY CARD

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD

 Unique reader offer: Seen on sale for £20 each, these high-
quality oscilloscope probe sets
x1,x10 switchable comprise:

oscilloscope probes, • iwoxl, x10 switchable probe bodies

• two insulating tips
only £21.74 a pair, • two IC tips and two sprung hooks
• trimming tools
fully inclusive* There's also two BNC adaptors for using
*Additional pairs as part of the same order, only the cables as 1.5m-long BNC-to-BNC
£19.24 each pair. links. Each probe has its own storage
wallet.
Please supply the following: To order your pair of probes, send the
Probes coupon together with £21.74
UK/Europe to Probe Offer, Electronics
Total
World Editorial, Quadrant House, The
Name Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey SM2 5AS.
Address
Readers outside Europe, please add
£2.50 to your order.

Specifications

Switch position 1
Postcode Telephone Bandwidth DC to 10MHz
Input resistance 1M1-2-i.e. oscilloscope i/p
Method of payment (please circle) Input capacitance 40pF+oscilloscope capacitance
Working voltage 600V DC or pk-pk AC
Cheques should be made payable to Reed Business
Information Switch position 2
Access/Mastercard/Visa/Cheque/PO Bandwidth DC to 150MHz
Rise time 2.4ns
Input resistance 10Mil ±1% if oscilloscope i/p is
1MS2
Credit card no Input capacitance 12pF if oscilloscope i/p is 20pF
Compensation range 10-60pF
\Vorking voltage 600V DC or pk-pk AC

Card expiry date Signed Switch position 'Ref'

Probe tip grounded via 9MS2, scope i/p grounded
Please allow up to 28 days for delivery
 Test Equipment Price Blitz!
While Stocks last: -...-. -,-__ -- "- •
—
la ._
PHILIPS PM3217 Oscilloscopes

DC-50MHz Dual beam, Dual Timebase (inc Delay).

Ind NEW probes and Cover...
an Un-Beatable £199
Wiltr .n Sc.l.r - e , . •

-, -
10MHz to 20GHz comprising: Model 560 SNA, 6647B sweeper and
1722A Touch Screen Controller...all fitted into one 19" rack cab with
covers. Complete with Manuals, Leads, Sensors and Software.
ONE ONLY £2995

Tektronix 2753P Spectrum Analyser

Fully programmable...100Hz to 1.8GHz...

On Screen readouts... Menus etc... MINT Condition.
ONE ONLY £2495

-t•i — - I) ' - r 11 • 1711 1

—t
1
4 a - IK
Digital Low Resistance Ohmeters...As new...with 2x Duplex Probes
manual etc. LED Display...6000 pOhm to 60 Ohms in 4 ranges
_.•
ONLY £175

LAST FEW Available:

MARCONI 2019A Signal Generators

:-{e,) = -- - •• a ... mi ......
a r-
80KHz to 1040MHz AM-FM...Synthesised 3x LCD , a,e. .
•.
•.
• • .:.
,-
I ' !1"!' KR • . . a
readouts. .
STILL ONLY £2495

HP 844513 18GHz Marconi 6311

Sorensen DCA 300-9
Pre-Selectors for 141T spectrum analyser Programmable Sweep Gen.
0-300V 0 9A DC Regulated and Stabilised
system... 10MHz-20GHz...
Power supply. Twin meters
One Only £195 Only £195 Now Only £2995
Wavetek 155
Marconi TK 2373
Rohde +Schwarz Programmable VCG 0.01Hz to
APN62 Sig gens 0.1Hz-260Hhz...sine, Frequency Extenders for 237011250MHz)... 1MHz.sine,sq,tri...
square, triangle, sawtooth. LCD
Only £375 Now Only £95
display.. Only £399
TEK 2205 Oscilloscopes... FLUKE 80 - 40K
SMLH Sig Gens...10KHz-40MHz...AM-FM DC-20MHz...Unbeatable Value at High Voltage Probe for DMM's...40kV
Only £345 Only £195 rated...
Now Only £35
Travelling Wave Tubes High Power 50ohm attenuators
NEW...Farnell Scope Probes
2x 10db 0 100W in one...
...x1x10 switchable...
Only £495 Only £25
Now Only £9.95
Farnell DSG2...Synthesised Sig Gens... Last FEW.. As-New DTA20 Rolleiflex TTIR Cameras
0.1MHz-110kHz...sine+square... 20MHz dual beam scopes. Ind leather case...
Only £195 Now Only £195 Few left at £175

ANCHOR SUPPLIES LTD Masterearf

All prices are plus VAT and Delivery

The Cattle Market, Nottingham NG2 3GY, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 115 986 4902 Fax: +44 (0) 115 986 4667
Also at Ripley, Derbys (01773) 570137 and Coalville, Leicestershire (01530) 811800

Visit our web site: www.anchorsupplies.com email: [email protected]

1RCLE NO. 1230N REPLY CARO

 Hands-on Internet
10110 VW (1 1001(.0 0110 011
10110 01110 10 0100 0110 011
00110 01110 10 01.0 00110 011
00110 01110 10 010,0 0.110 011
Oolio 01ur Ir 01(.100110 0I1

1
00110 011 10 10 01010 0110 11

'10
0 110 01 11C 10 0101 -0110 011
110 01110 10 0101 10110 01
10 0110 01110 10 0101 1011001.
90110 01 /)-13 01010 1110 11
40110J 11
f001100
88118311
,i1111
8e1
1
00110011
0011001
88118

Variable-gain circuits
I
nlast month's article. Idiscussed a can introduce noise. With increasing
Cyril Bateman looks at the selection of circuits for controlling levels, the signal can even be crudely
signal amplitude. These used clipped using only asimple resistor
trade-offs involved with the voltage-controlled amplifiers to diode network.
produce low-distortion, variable-gain When the signal has avery wide
various ways of producing or closed-loop AGC circuits. dynamic range, logarithmic ampli-
Many techniques are available.
variable-gain circuits and Some introduce distortion; others
fiers or converters can be used to
compress a 100dB input signal range
reports on what's available introduce phase and group-delay into an output range of less than
changes. A few methods though have 10dB, or just two or three volts. Such
on the Internet to help no adverse affects at all. circuits introduce distortion but can
Analogue multipliers can be used be effective with high frequency and
deginers make their choice. to provide avoltage-controlled wide bandwidth signals.
amplifier or AGC circuit, but they For arecent task Ineeded to

Bugs Me pal New la fulramla Ibis elms Ocal., Melba

teda
As Iwrite, MicrosoftA has just released aseries of patches to eliminate five Loam :wow«. net c
ceévolume I
59..h. 1.0 M.,.

security holes in its Internet Explorer and Office software. These bug patches
welegglifjup u
result from criticisms of its security policies —part of the aftermath of the (NU

considerable damage caused by the recent 'Love-bug' virus.

eftware s _Coy II. Oil

Variants of this virus have now appeared that are even more damaging. Neu Vim More Deadly Um Love Bea
These arrive as an e-mail with an attached file having a'.vbs' extension. Nod ea bade of be Law bag, 41.11ta raw
Their subject line varies, so these versions are more difficult to filter than was _1 ena 'seam/am? areal» brawl WIN
„ Lon bas Imam, lame Ira end hod •
the original 'Love bug'. Interested readers can find more details by accessing dlaralmsdaalbaktaal.ananakell
lee •*decay* ad mid...Oman Vs
two web sites, BugNetB and Cnetc. amine dalmitaa lla
Mad bar ih..a.ra
If you access Internet using Internet Explorer software, you are advised to Mira ha •vb. Mama lla um. wale llama °abeam
awl leak Weald maps wary poem Walla lha ma% aNnea

download these security patches from Microsoft, Fig. A. bait II •am wan be near« Oa ana «mantas ilea Um Me
as *-tqt. "am Yaw. Pearraie la basal
Readers whose computers have mother boards using the Intel 820 chipset "vetting I..*. Low Eat chi boat(' aim dam ,Roam sale
compare gr..yone

together with the new memory translator hub or 'MTH', chip may fl. .,n e te doe ,°p.m *sad

experience 'boot-up' problems. The MTH chip is used to enable the 820 •
Otehment,,pbetaly Iho•• ,eqh •'b,ex
.z,. ,on le• n« .& oy, *bete
e
/

chipset to address conventional memory pending the arrival of Rambus Asid 10., et u. is 1//2 MS.

memory chips.
Fig. A. The latest version of e-mail based
Intel is expecting to bear the cost of replacing large numbers of affected computer bugs. Developed from the recent
mother boardsp. ,'Love bug' virus, if opened, this version can
overwrite many computer files.

656
ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000
 COMMUNICATIONS

}
IN
o DECODE!
DO
E
S--
CONTROL Dl

DIGrTAL
CONTROL
ENABLE

o your DIGITAL
OND 13
VIN o GROUND
7
cois
16ple
V. T0
o

+/-
OUTPUT OUT
I_)t_PA I
AMP
-16V

Dual
e
Comparator

OSC
UD

< R.
11d1

Fig. 1. Using aprogrammable-gain instrumentation amplifier as an auto-

ranging gain control. The PG202 provides decade ranging steps. Its HA2400 PRAM
Fig. 2. Using Intersil's circuit to
companion PG203, provides binary ranging. provide programmable, binary-ratio, gains.

measure the time differences between

two low level IMHz sinewaves, Where to surf
having much differing amplitudes. To 1. Burr-Brown Corporation http://www.burr-brown.com
eliminate zero-crossing slew-induced 2 Intersil Corporation http://www.intersil.com
errors. Ineeded to raise each signal to 3 Linear Technology Corporation http://www.linear-tech.com
aconsistent, measurable level, 4 Analog Devices Inc. http://www.analog.com
without affecting their time differ-
ences. A Security update http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie
This article reports my recent /downloacVcritical/patch6.htm
Internet findings on variable-gain B Worm targets exchange e-mail
address books http://www.bugnet.com/alerts/bugalert_000504.html
circuits.
C New virus more deadly
than Love bug' http //www.cnet.com/software/0-1592552.html
Controlling gain
The input to avoltmeter or a-to-d D Intel to replace faulty
PC mother boards http://news.cnet.cominews/0-1006-200-1849850.html
converter may need to use gain or
range switching to optimise its
measurement range. A gain-
selectable, programmable instrumen- using simple logic, Fig. 2. an op-amp to prevent saturation of
Capable of driving more than 20V subsequent stages. Simple circuits. Fig. 3.
tation amplifier IC, such as Burr
pk-pk into a21d1 load at frequencies such as the resistor diode clipping Compensation
Brown's PGA202/3 1,can provide
up to 400kHz, this amplifier has network mentioned, may suffice. input, pin 5, of
either decade or binary gain steps,
and very high gains, under simple many applications besides the Using aclipping diode in the feed- the LT1222 IC
programmable gain example back circuit of an op-amp though can also be used
logic control, Fig. 1.
described. could be more effective. to insert diode
Intersil's PRAM, or programmable
Although simple. this circuit suffers clamping,
amplifier, provides avariety of
'Clamp' amplifiers from signal distortions and lacks restricting drive
programmable functions besides
In many applications, it is desirable to precise amplitude control. If the input amplitude into its
simple gain blocks 2.With its 40MHz
restrict, or 'clamp', the output from to the output stage of the op-amp is output stage to
gain bandwidth and 30V/ps slew rate,
prevent
the HA2400 comprises aseries of 15V
saturation.
four-channel programmable ampli-

¡h iiiiiII
fiers. Any amplifier —or indeed no
amplifier —may be electronically
selected and connected to asingle
output stage, using TTL-compatible •111111Mill11111111
address inputs.

1111111111111 11111i 111

A programmable-gain amplifier can
be provided by arranging differing
gains for each of the four channels.
Input impedance of the device is me MI 111111 0 31
30Mfl and all four amplifier inputs 111111111MI
may be connected in parallel. The
required gain channel is then selected IdEr111111111E011m

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 657

 COMMUNICATIONS

externally accessible, performance Any change in input offset appears to

7pF-4t.çf can be improved by clipping the the converter output as though a
drive signal fed into the output stage. change of input signal has occurred.
+5V This stops the output saturating, It is possible to produce alow-
Fig. 3. frequency logarithmic conversion using
INPLT When higher frequencies are only an op-amp with alog feedback
14 needed, the LTI194 can be handy 3. diode. Log converters intended for high
This is ahigh-speed video 'differ- frequency, low-level signals though use
ence' amplifier that can be used as a multiple gain stages. A good descrip-
variable limiting amplifier. This is tion of this construction can be found in
done by varying the control voltage the AD8307 data sheet from Analog
supplied to its two balance/limiting Devices4.
reference pins. Such an arrangement Released in July 1997, the AD8307
provides acontrolled, 'soft' limiting, claimed to be the first low cost
output voltage, Fig. 4. 5COMHz log amp in an 8pin SOIC
Analog Devices' AD8036 4 is a package to measure IF signals. It is able
low-distortion clamp amplifier to measure signal strength with a±3dB
designed to provide high-speed signal accuracy over a92dB measurement
clipping with minimal pre-clipping range, improving to ±1dB over an
signal distortion. Based on a 88dB range, Fig. 6.
1200V/ps, 240MHz high voltage
gain, unity-gain stable differential Exponential amplifiers
amplifier, this device has two high- Perhaps the most conventional way to
speed internal comparators used to vary the effective gain of acircuit is
sense the input signal levels. that used for a'volume' control.
These comparators connect to Here, the circuit gain remains con-
independently-settable high and low stant but its input signal is deliberate-
reference voltages. Provided the input ly attenuated as desired.
signal does not exceed these set Analog Devices 4 has contrived this
voltages, the comparators have no mechanism in silicon within a
effect. The amplifier functions as a conventionally-packaged IC. An
Fig. 4. Adjustable soft-limiting of this 200kHz sinewave was normal, low distortion, op-amp. externally-supplied control voltage
obtained by setting the V,„ „ t
rolvo-ltage to -5V, -4V, -3V and When the input voltage exceeds one can attenuate the input signal over a
-2V in turn. of the reference voltages, the relevant 40dB range. The attenuated input is
comparator switches, substituting the then amplified by afixed gain, very
RF reference voltage for the input signal. low-noise, broadband amplifier.
Vet The amplifier input voltage remains
140S/ The net result is aquick-responding
fixed at this reference voltage until variable-gain amplifier having a
the input signal becomes smaller than response that's 'linear in dB' and low
Al
A2 the reference, Fig. 5. distortion. With 1/ 8 set to OV, the chip
• 0 VouT
is precisely calibrated in production,
S1 Log converters ensuring accurate gain control.
e
o
The conversion of asignal's ampli- The resistive input attenuator used
tude into its equivalent logarithmic with afixed-gain amplifier assures
si ABC value involves anon-linear opera- both aconstant bandwidth and near-
YIN > O 1 0 tion. With small-signal inputs, gain constant group delay. Analog Devices
VL oVIN 5VII 1 0 0 of the converter is extremely large. has classified this novel circuit as an
O 0 1
'X-Amp', which is short for exponen-
Fig.5. Analog Devices' AD8036 input- tial amplifier of course.
clamping amplifier, provides easy control of The AD600/AD602 designs were
input drive levels. VH and Vt. can be set to published in their 'Special linear
any voltage between t3.9V, provided VH reference manual - 1992'. Both
exceeds V. provided dual-channel 'X-Amps' in g
16-pin DIL package with a35MHz
bandwidth. They differed only in the
Fig. 6. This high.
AD8307 gain of their fixed-gain output
frequency VPS
BANDGAP REFERENCE ENB
amplifier. The AD600 has again of
logarithmic SUPPLY 7.5mA
AND BIASING C) ENABLE 41.07dB and the AD602 10dB less.
amplifier -the
Their input attenuators can reduce the
first in an SOIC 8 SIX 14.3dB 900MHz INT
AMPL FIER STAGES INT ADJ
input by up to 42.14dB.
pin package -can INP
+INPUT Subsequently, other variations on
measure signals 1.151(11
MIRROR this circuit have been introduced. The
from audio -INPUT
e
INM 34, AD603 is asingle-channel amplifier
frequency to 211 A I OUT
500MHz, /dB •® OUTPUT with pin-programmable bandwidths
NINE DETECTOR CELLS of 9MHz and 51dB maximum gain or
producing a SPACED 14.3dB 12.5kil
90MHz with 31dB maximum gain.
voltage output COMMON ® com COM The dual-channel AD604 with
scaled at INPUT-OFFSET OFS 40MHz bandwidth, is similar to the
25mV/d8. COMPENSATION LOOP OFS. ADJ.
AD600, but has aprogrammable
input amplifier to increase its maxi-

658
ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000
 COMMUNICATIONS

VMS

i
l OUTPU1
)Aref

C. Cl
0,1 4 7.i
•6 V

IHPLI
II II f
RkIS
MAX P
RI OF)
F VPOS
E --+
(SINE WAVE] H 5114

NcE
1151-: U2 •6V DLC
AlHI
12 NC
AD636
1/7 2111 e Alto A104
oV DEC "4-E VNEG NC -411 DEC .+4-1e- 1>
E vPOS
13 +61/ DEC CAVG E. NC
R7
tGtlf2..E 5 REF V1 10. Ro 54.21c1
12 -9/DEC NCE SLOG COMM
k
E
DA20P
A2L0 -6V
NCE BFOP LDLO POWER SUPPLY
A 2H I E A
E"2°N E BF» VR115
DE COUPLM G NETWORK

e Ç221LE

U1 AD600 1/2

T
Al) ¡il
AD712

VG

ov.
15.625tnV/OP

odB (AT lomV RMS:

NC= NO CON 14001

Fig. 7. Deceptively simple, this three-

IC voltmeter measures true RMS of
high crest factor waveforms from
u • FIJI RENCK
audio to 2MHz with an 80dB dynamic (Al I
,

range. Claimed accuracy is ±0.5dB ré .

f. F
1,
! 2k
from 80pV to 500m V. Having built PHASE
0 Eff Plfl
this circuit in 1993, Ican confirm this I c,

performance is achievable. IF

1
,7

mum gain to 54dB. k

Data sheets for these parts all describe

their use to build closed loop, wide OFFSE1 131:
bandwidth. AGC amplifiers with 80dB
ef-
5V
Fn 11 24 F2d
input range and quick response. 2011 56 204

Additionally, the sheet for the -54

AD600/AD602 also describes a120dB- F,

range AGC amplifier and an 80dB _t o e45V

'linear-in-dB', 2MHz bandwidth, true

RMS responding voltmeter, Fig. 7. 14
4 1' E

Constant propagation delay 0, e15 Pie

1144141 2CK 344
For some applications, it may be /C3C IC3C
necessary to vary an amplifier's gain 10
Fit Fig
while keeping its propagation time I2C 1;1 C 147 4.64k 147

delay constant. With change in signal

amplitude, the maximum signal slew
rate, which occurs at the zero voltage
crossing, varies. When the time
difference of two signals having r, •
differing amplitudes must be mea- E,
1144141 114414s
sured, this difference in slew rate
causes measurement errors. IIE 44
0104 0

One circuit application where this

matters is measurement of phase SIGNAL IN 4i F13
11.
difference. Application note AN9637 tGINl- MI •
from Intersil 2 describes how the lk
company's HA5024 amplifier can be
used to adjust signal amplitude while avoiding switching circuit parasitics. Fig. 8. Using the quad amplifier
minimising these errors. The HA5020 incurs similar propa- with the HA5020 single amplifier
The HA5024 is aquad amplifier, gation delays. This is asingle ampli- to roughly equalise reference and
fier having identical schematic circuit measure signal levels while
and each section can be enabled
individually. This allows amplifier and made using the same process as maintaining similar propagation
gain to be controlled by simple the HA5024. Note AN9637 describes delays. This phase meter design
selection of amplifier, rather than the design of aphase meter using can be downloaded as AN9637.
switching resistor feedback net- these techniques that is capable of 1%
works. Each amplifier can be com- accuracy and usable to 10MHz, see
pensated for propagation delay, Fig. 8

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD 659

 Pico ADC42
£98
inclusive of VAT
and postage*
Virtual oscilloscope •UK onls. Oserseas readers please Cas or v-inail tor
aquote including delhers charges.

Featuring 12-bit resolution and 1M12

input impedance, the ADC42 samples
at up to 15kS/s and includes software
for spectrum analysis. oscilloscope
functions and frequency display.
Plugging into a PC's LPT port, the unit
provides large, colourful displays and
all the usual timebases and trigger
options — all in acase slightly larger
than a matchbox.

Use this coupon to order your ADC42

Please send me ADC-42(s) at the special offer price of £98

fully inclusive of VAT and recorded UK delivery, normal selling price
£111.63 excluding postage.

Name
ADC42 single channel oscilloscope
Address
• Low cost and easy to use
• No power supply required
• Ultra compact design
• Oscilloscope and data logging software
included
• Write-to-disk on trigger function standard Phone number/fax
The ADC42 is a single-channel pc based virtual
Total amount £
instrument. Simply plug the unit into the parallel
port of your pc and run the software. Designed Ienclose acheque

for analysing low-frequency signals, it provide all Please charge to my credit/debit card.
the functionality of a conventional scope at a
Card type (MasterNisa/Switch etc)
fraction of the price.
The ADC42 has 12-bit resolution making it
suitable for applications where detection of small Card No
signal changes is needed.

Specifications Expiry date

Scope timebases 500ps/div to 50s/div

Spectrum analysis 100Hz to 10kHz
Please mail this coupon to Electronics World, together with payment.
Max sampling 15ksample/s
Alternatively fax credit card details with order on 0181 652 8111.
Voltage range ±5V
Resolution 12 bit Address orders and all correspondence relating to this order to Pico
Channels 1 BNC Offer, Electronics World, Quadrant House, The Quadrant, Sutton,
VP impedance dc coupled Surrey SM2 5AS.
Accuracy 1°. email jackie.lowe@ rbisco.uk
PC connection D25 to PC parallel port
Make cheques payable to Reed Business Information Group.
Power supply Not required
 Love
vinvlp
If you treasure your vinyl collection,
this book is for you. Featuring articles
from the pages of the US magazine
Audio Amateur and other sources, it
contains absolutely everything the
serious LP music collector needs to
get the most out of both vintage
records and the highest quality new
pressings.

Articles feature:
• Cleaning discs
• How to build a cleaning machine
• Calibrating and maintaining your tonearm

Please send me copies of The LP is Back! and cartridge

• Equipment that will improve the quality of
Name
long-play record listening
Address
Collected from the high point of this old-new again
technology, 'The LP is Back!' brings a wealth of information
to help you keep your existing equipment in top form and
help you understand and appreciate the best in new products
Post code available from cartridges to turntables. Published 1999,
160 pp., 8in by 10 1/
2in, softbound.

Daytime phone number

Fully inclusive prices:
Ienclose acheque for
UK £11.49
Or debit my Visa Master Card (tick one) Europe £11.99
ROW £13.98
Card number _ _ _ _
How to order:
Expiry date _ /_ _ Post the coupon to:
The LP is back, Electronics World, Quadrant House, The Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey
S6,
12 SAS, or fax 0208 652 8111,
Card-holder's signature:
or e-mail jackie.loweürbi.co.uk

Please make cheques payable to Reed Business Information

 WE ILOTIONS
AQUILA VISION custom, LED bargraphs, circuit board EQUINOX TECHNOLOGIES approved cordsets (Moulded mains
indicators stand offs. plugs and connectors) and Power
http://www.aquila-vision.co.uk transmissive/reflective switches, baseefa UK LTD Supply Cables for all industrial
optocouplers tubular and surfacemount, Countries to National and International
Aquila Vision specialises in supplying and http://www.equinox-tech.com
panne! mount LED assemblies. Standards
supporting Embedded Microprocessor
Development products from PICs to DSPs. eggea• Ilogougg. IN Legged

We also stock robotics boards, Linux and alekoeno to Pe Pena page of

FLASH DESIGNS LTD
general interest CD-ROM's. CONCEPT ELECTRONICS http://www.flash.co.uk

e
+•-•.).12 Iià Já2
http://www.conceptkey.co.uk 41:» EQUINOX Flash supply low cost AVR ISP
Avis Ili
flitZfa
programmers (£39), MINI-ICE starter
Concept Keyboards are specialists in «Mr kits (from £69), Portable Easy-ICE
•••••••••

the design and manufacture of • ••• •e•

•••••• ••• emulators (from £199). ICE Adapters &
i•••••• •
customer specified membrane panels 'C compilers for any ATMEL AVR,
and keyboards, and electronic design. MCS51, Dallas, Hitachi H8
Concept's membrane manufacture is microcontroller. Download FLASH
supported by afull electronic Equinox Technologies UK Ltd.. specialise NEWS now. Watch out for Special
production facility to provide a in development tools for the embedded Offers ARE YOU developing code in a
complete turnkey keyboard and microcontroller market. Flash?
electronics service, fully accredited to
1509001. HSPS LTD
DESIGNER SYSTEMS CO.
CONTROL SOLUTIONS http://www.designersystems.co. http://dspace.dial.pipex.com/hsps/
uk
www.controlsolutions.co.uk FILTER DESIGNER -Advanced analog and
digital filter design software for the PC -
ALCATEL COMPONENTS Data acquisition and control for Electronic product design company with
Standard and Professional versions.- Free
beginners, hobbyists, and professionals. over adecade of experience
http://www.components promoting it's own product range and
download of Evaluation version.
Perform mathematical and logical
©alcatel.de operations on data in real time. Email: designing and manufacturing innovative
products for client companies/individuals
LEVY/LATHAM GLOBAL
info4controlsolutions.co.uk.
ASHWELL ELECTRONICS http://www.levylatham.com
http://www.ashwell-hq.com COOKE INTERNATIONAL Be =.111 U.S. Military Surplus meters. plug-ins,
test sets, oscilloscopes, power supplies,
Ashwell provide technical support for http://www.cooke-int.com signal generators, spectrum analyzers
Apex Microtechnology op-amps and
DC/DC'S: Aeroflex: EMP filtered
e-mail: [email protected] and radio components from Tektronix,
Hewlett Packard. Sony. Phillips and more!
connectors: M SKennedy: Mintech •
•
obsolescence: NSC Mil/Aero; Teledyne
Relays and isocom mil/optocouplers. LOW POWER RADIO
SOLUTIONS
ARCOM
http://www.lprs.co.uk

4ip
http://www.arcomcontrols.com/e
LPRS markets low power radio
transmitters, receivers and transceiver
modules manufactured by ourselves,
Radiometrix. Circuit Designs, ROT and
EW
Stockists of Quality Used Electronic ECM SELECTION Micrel. Applications for telemetry,
Test Instruments and Operating 8
Service Manuals. http:// www.ecmsel.co.uk video and remote control

For the pick of the UK sTop High-Tech

MATTHEY MICROFILTERS
CROWNHILL ASSOCIATES LTD Software and Hardware career opportunities
-from fresh Grad/PhD to Senior http://www.microfilters.net
••••••••
http://www.crownhill.co.uk Engineer/Manager -- £22.000 -£70.000
30 years experience in the design and
Crownhill supply low cost development
manufacture of high quality passive filters
tools for use with Micro-Controllers and
and delay lines. Used in Broadcast,
A leading international supplier of Smart Cards. Products include Smart Telecommunications, Medical,
Card development tools, Smart cards.
communication and control technology to Multimedia, and Computer industries.
Micro Development tools and Bespoke
industry, Arcom provides leading edge
solutions through acomprehensive Design Services,
Matthey
range of market leading products. A/b_to_tilters

BROADERCASTING .•••

COMMUNICATIONS
Man,
1••
Yob.
••••••••

SYSTEMS
011e•1•1.1,••ell
•••

'..effee». goatmemeauf
ea ogee.. •••• yew Pew«. fee» ...P..
www.broadercasting.co.uk
ELECTRONICS PRINCIPLES
WINRADIO now brings you acomplete
choice in personnel computer controlled
FREE ONLINE
radio scanning and reception solutions • http://www.eptsoft.com NEWNES -BOOKS FOR THE
Broadcast • Media • Monitoring •
Professional Amateur Radio DANIEL MCBREARTY This popular electronics educational title ELECTRONICS WORLD
communications http://www.danmcb.demon now available to engineers, students and
CO.0
hobbyists absolutely free. Ahuge 'virtual http://www.newnespress.com
k/eng.html textbook' of electronics information, from Over 300 books and information
BEDFORD OPTO DC to PIC's.
Experienced engineer based in London. packages for those working with
TECHNOLOGY LTD specialist in audio and control systems. electronics and engineering technology.
http://www.bot.co.uk Available for design. project engineering FELLER UK Visit our site for afree catalogue and
or general consultancy Background of downloads
Optoelectronic products UK design http://www.feller-at.corn
development manufacture standard and high-quality work.
Feller (UK) Ltd manufacture Fully

662 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

To reserve your web site space contact Pat Bunce
Tel: 020 8652 8339 Fax: 020 8652 3981
Wireless, communication, test equipment,
PCA:PHILIP COLLINS & RADIOMETRIX R5 rswvvvv.cOm bought and sold for very competitive
ASSOCIATES PTY. LTD http://www.radiometrix.co.uk prices visit our web site or telephone John
p 1.1.IIM on 01889 569928 or 0973 296461.
http://www.pca.cc Radiometrix specialises in the design and %Me •Warm
manufacture of VHF 8. UHF. RF data
PCA manufactures Radphone 2000DX modules. We otter abroad range of PCB —
SUPRA AUDIO CABLES
remote control systems for shortwave Ye.
mounted miniature transmit, receive and http://www.jenving.se
broadcasters and government agencies transceiver modules for OEM use
21.

wanting worldwide control of 44- 13...

Jenving Technology AB is the
47 71111
communications receivers and manufacturer of Supra Audio Cables. OEM
transceivers from any tone phone. RADIO-TECH LIMITED productions are also accepted.
http://www.radio-tech.co.uk
POLY-FLEX CIRCUITS LTD II el, twee .len. .1
Radio modules, modems, telemetry, audio
http://www.polyflex.com transmitters, pagers, antenna, remote -Technical data library
Design, manufacture and population of controls and much more. All UK designed -Stock availability check
printed polyester flexible and manufactured. -Integrated on-line purchasing
circuits, including Flip Chip on Flex -Order by 8pm -with you tomorrow.
providing practical, low cost.
rem SOFTCOPY
”ft
11, •nine
M.1.11•11.
reliable solutions for today's small
lightweight products.
_ http://www.softcopy.co.uk
IMO

QUASAR ELECTRONICS As aPC data base or hard copy. SottCopy

can supply acomplete index of
www.quasarelectronics.com Electronics World articles over the past
ten years. Photo copies of articles from
TEMWELL CORPORATION
Over 250 electronic kits, projects and RALFE ELECTRONICS back issues are also available. http://www.temwell.com.tw
ready built units for hobby,
educational 8. industrial applications. professional test 8« measurement Manufacturer 8. Exporter of Heelical BPF
TEL 01279 306504, FAX 0870 7064222 www.ralfe-electronics.co.uk SESCOM, INC. Filter, 30 Watts BPF Power Filter and
or EMAIL: ewsales©quasarelectronics.com Handset/Base Station Duplexers
http://www.sescom.com
RD RESEARCH SESCOM. INC. is a30-year manufacturer THERMOSPEED
http://www.looking.co.uk/spice of audio problem solvers and
transformers We also offer easily-
http://www.thermospeed.co.uk
Analogue and digital SPICE modelling
fabricated aluminum enclosures for small Temperature and pressure, control and
software. Full details available on this site.
Available on a30 day evaluation basis. production runs and prototypes.

aulloeiag Nip à almasen IHER110,,,

82 Spice di 82 Loge 5E5
MOM
Num. on -line
••••••••••• E Comm
• 'et
WM.

de

OUILLER ELECTRONICS
http://www.quiller.com
RS COMPONENTS LTD
100+ pages of detailed technical http://rswww.com STAFFORDSHIRE
information on Schrack Relays, MEC
Switches. Hirose Connections. The award winning on-line service from RS WIRELESS COMPANY
-110,000+ products available http://www.staffs-wireless.com Continued over page

We understand that cost is an important a full year, which equates to just £29.17 per
Put your web address in front of 21 000
electronics enthusiasts and experts. factor, as web sites are an added drain on month.

Electronics World acknowledges your budgets. But we are sure you will agree that This price includes the above mentioned

company's need to promote its web site, the following rates make all the difference: information, plus a 3cm screen shot of your

which is why we are now dedicating pages in site, which we can produce if required.

every issue to announce your FOR 12 ISSUES:

To take up this offer or for more
WEB ADDRESS. Lineage only will cost £150 for a full year just
information ring:
This gives other readers the opportunity to £12.50 per month.
look up your company's name, to find your This includes your company's name, web Pat Dunce on 020 8652 8339
14 eh address and to browse the magazine page address and a 25-word description. or fax on 020 8652 3981.
to find new sites. lineage with colour screen shot costs £350 for or e-mail: pat.bunceerbi.co.uk

Company name Web address

663
August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD
 1
WEB IRECTIO
instrumentation. Full on-line purchasing. Everything you need for DIY Satellite 8
•Overnight ex-stock delivery TV aerial installation. The one stop ••••• •.crec c
,

•Create your own hotlist shop for TV. FM, Satellite. Amateur
•Download datasheets Radio PMR Aerials. Distribution
VUTRAX
•Full technical support Equipment. Cable 8 Accessories. ..,01•••••••ry PCS C411

TECHNICAL AND
TEST EQUIPMENT
SCIENTIFIC SUPPLIES
SOLUTIONS
http://vmu.technicalscientific.com
passive, active. digital filters). Tech Suppliers of pre-1985 equipment and ==.
support, sales links and price list. components.
-Test/Measurement equipment
I. 71$7 101,11161511T
TRIDENT MICROSYSTEMS LTD -Valves and semiconductors
fP SOLUTIONS
-Transducers and pressure gauges
http://www.trident-uk.co.uk -Scientific books and catalogues
Specialsts in the supply
Visit the Trident website for details and -Manuals and data sheets
- of quality refurbished 41.

Test Equipment datasheets on their entire LCD and printer VUTRAX PCB DESIGN
product range Download data and VANN DRAPER SOFTWARE
Phone: +44 (0)1753 596000 subscribe for our regularly updated ELECTRONICS LTD
Email: intoeTestEquipmen010 corn newsleter. http://www.vutrax.co.uk
http://www.vanndraper.co.uk
TOWER HILL VUTRAX electronic schematic and pcb
htto://www.TestEouipmentHO.co Test equipment from Grundig.
TECHNICAL SERVICES Kenwood. Hitachi, Fluke, Am,
Duality second user test equipment with design system for Windows 95. 98 and
Glassman. Advance in acomprehensive
full warranty and support All types of http://www.towerhillaerials.com NT. Limited Capacity FREE version
site including oscilloscopes, downloads available, all upgradeable to
equipment from all leading
multimeters, power supplies. various customised levels
manufacturers including general
WV« Ma 1.1.11M0 try.

generators, counters, soldering, digital

purpose, communications and industrial «••••••».

test. ' WOOD & DOUGLAS

To reserve your web http://www.woodanddouglas.co.uk
THOSE ENGINEERS LTD
site space contact Wood 8 Douglas Ltd is the leading
http://www.spiceage.com
independent British designer and
Working evaluations of SpiceAge mixed-
Rat Bunce
manufacturer of quality radio products
mode simulator, Spicycle PCB design •
- Tel: 020 8652 8339 for International telemetry. datayoice
tools and Superfilter demo (synthesises video wireless communications.
Fax: 020 8652 3981

30% discount for EW readers

on dmm with frequency, capacitance & inductance
Features
3.5 digit 43 ranges 0.25%
AC & DC voltage & current
Resistance to 20Mohm Vann Draper Electronics Ltd
The test & measurement specialists
Capacitance to 2000uF
www.vanndrapenco.uk
Frequency to 20MHz Equipment from Grundig, Kenwood, Hameg,
Inductance to 20H Tektronix, Hitachi, Fluke, Avo and many more
Diode, continuity & logic test
Auto pwr off, data & peak hold Use this coupon for your order
Overload protection Please supply me
Input warning beeper
Rubber holster LP300 mulerneterisi at £59 00 Inc vat &del

Name
Vann Draper is offering the professional quality LP300 digital multimeter to readers of
Electronics World at a 30% discount The LP300 normally sells at an already low price of Address
£81 08 but is available to readers for only £59 fully inclusive of vat 8. delivery

The meter is supplied ready to use complete with test leads rubber holster battery, operating
instructions and a 12 month guarantee

Data sheets for all products are published on our web site at www vanndraper co uk
Tel No
including the new pc based 20MHz 40Msfs digital scope & spectrum analyser for £159
Total E
To order your meter simply post the coupon to
Vann Draper Electronics Ltd, Stenson House, Stenson. Derby DE73 1HL. Cheques payable to Vann Draper Electronics Lia
or debit my visa mastercard or switch card
Or Tel 01283 704706 Fax 01283 704707 Email [email protected]
card type

Key Specifications Card No

DC volts 200m. 2V. 20V 200V 1000V -basic accuracy 0 25%
AC volts 200m, 2V. 20V, 200V. 750V -basic accuracy 10%
DC current 200uA, 2mA, 200mA, 10A -200mA & 10A fuse protection
Expiry date Switch iss No

AC current 200uA, 2mA, 200mA, 10A -200mA & 10A fuse protection
Resistance 200ohm. 2k, 20k, 200k, 2M. 20M -protection to 500Vrms Signature
Capacitance 20nF. 200nF. 2uF. 20uF. 2000uF -by test leads or socket
Inductance 2mH. 20mH, 200mH. 2H, 20H -by test leads or socket Overseas readers can still obtain this discount but carriage

Frequency charges vary according to country Please telephone lax

2kHz. 20kHz, 200kHz, 2MHz. 20MHz -auto ranging email or write to Vann Draper
Size and weight 200 x95 x55mm. 500g (with holster) I.

CIRCLE NO.124 ON REPLY CARD

664 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

Letters to the editor
Letters to "Electronics World" Quadrant House, The Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey, SM2 5AS
e-mail [email protected] using subject heading 'Letters'.

Linear power supplies right direction Iwould be glad Teething trouble that this frequency is employed
Can anyone help me track doss it to hear from them by e-mail. vt rite in response to Ian in the operation of microwave
the best source of basic linear John Paulson Johnson's letter, published in ovens, since Icannot think of
power supply design Warrington the July issue, in which he another argument to support
information ever produced. Cheshire expresses concerns about both this statement. However, I
Many years ago Mullard [email protected] the safety and the reliability of would be very interested to hear
published the most wonderful the Bluetooth system described from someone more
design guide booklet on Radio control in an article in the May issue. knowledgeable than me in this
designing. calculating and As Iam currently Unfortunately. Imissed this area.
specifying linear power experimenting with radio article. However, since Iam It is my understanding that
supplies. Unfortunately Ido not control in the 4/8MHz band, currently involved in the this frequency is chosen for
have acopy although Ido know may Isay how helpful Ifound development of acommercial microwave ovens not because
that parts of it were later Pei An's article in the June Bluetooth product, thope to be the frequency itself provides
reproduced somewhere in a issue. able to address some of those maximum heating effect, but
National Semiconductor book. However, with regard to the concerns. because it allows efficient
Iknow that several historical • loop type aerial shown on page While my area of expertise is generation of high output power
publications of Mullard origin 450, Ithink it would be software and digital electronics, levels by use of amagnetron.
have been republished: has this preferable to make the ground my role in the project demands While the BlueTooth
happened to this guide? If so. connection at the neutral point that Ihave an understanding of specification does allow for
where could tobtain it? If on the loop, i.e. the voltage the RF operation of the product. 'high-power' transmitters with
anybody has acopy, would node, and make agamma match What Ipresent here is my own an output power of 100mW for
copyright still exist? Or is a for the RF connection as shown. personal opinion, independent certain applications, most
photocopy available anywhere? /S Linfoot of my employer. Iam not an devices with which the user will
Alternatively, is there another Oxford OND Q 9RF expert, but tconsider myself come into close physical
better or more complete guide well informed on the subject. contact will fall into the Slow-
to power supply design First, Iwould dispute that power' category and be capable
available without resorting to 2.45GHz is "the very frequency of transmitting at amaximum
the fairly simple but very most likely to cause personal power of ImW, i.e. just over
tedious calculations from first injury". Although he doesn't one millionth of the power
principles? explicitly state it, Iassume Mr output of areally good
If anyone can point me in the Johnson is referring to the fact microwave oven.

Wien-wise
Fuithei to Lin liickinan's discussion of the
Wien oscillator in the June edition of
Electronics World, readers may be
interested in the visual analysis of the
I
3R
general Wien network that is summarised in
Figs 1to 4. Voltages VG and Vp are in phase E
when 0=0, corresponding to ti.t.00.
Bryan Hart E
Leigh-on-Sea
2 = WCpVp
Essex

Fig. 2. General
case, ewe.

Fig. 3. Special
case, 0=8:
V p

Triangle
Equating
Fig. 4. Visual analysis for 4.) H
CAB ECD DCF EDF (or—too).
marked columns

Tan 0 0)C pRp tuC sRs =W0 \C pCsRpRs

• VP a a .Vp_
RL
Cos 0 Rp
Rpl, 1 (a +b) =V p[Rs + CP ]=V,
toC pVp be)C, B y p cp Rp Cs
Sin 0 1, Cs
1, ... VG =Vp +Vs =Vp[1+ Rs + Cp ]
Fig. 1. General Wien network. Rp Cs

10,
August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD
 LETTERS

Given that the alleged health In the event that the amplifier architectures as
Put it in the fridge
risk associated with 1.8GHz microwave interference were being the real answer.
then tap it...
phones, that operate closer to strong enough to saturate the Loudspeaker systems and
the 2.4GHz band than lower- receiver such that all channels output devices have much Ilot headed Conner drive in
frequency devices, is not yet so were blocked simultaneously, I more of abearing on an the July issue: put the drive
obvious as to be beyond doubt. would be more concerned about amplifier's internal behaviour in the refrigerator for an
Note that the output power of my health than about any than do the music waveforms hour. Take it out, tap it
these phones is athousand resulting data loss. that our amplifiers are lightly and re-install. This
times that of most Bluetooth Itrust this addresses some expected to reproduce. Failure works most of the time for
devices. concerns, but I'm sure it will of an output stage to follow us.
Secondly, "the people who set raise others. input signal waveform causes Ed Dell
out the specification," were a Bill Jones an error current to be Via e-mail
consortium that included major Via e-mail generated which will drive the
mobile phone manufacturers intermediate stages to greater This is not ahoax! I'd be
Ericsson and Nokia. Icannot currents, but not, in bipolar interested to hear if anyone
Amplifier input
claim to know what was going amplifiers, to slew to has an explanation for it. Ed.
on in their minds. But in my filtering appreciably greater voltages.
opinion, they did realise what Writing to 'Letters' in the May Indeed, when non-clipping hf monitoring an amplifier
they were doing. 2000 issue, J.N. Ellis proposed audio coincidentally rides bass working into say a 100f2 load.
Thirdly, regarding the style of that aslew-rate limiting input at moments when a Nor am Isure that driver
antenna, Ican only comment filter would lay the ghost of dynamically reactive transistor base-collector
that the reference to Ericsson's TID to rest by preventing an loudspeaker system impedance capacitance is the most serious
Bluetooth development kit I internal amplifier stage from dips below its nominal value, amplifier problem: some
have seen uses an etched over-slew switching. He the conducting output device designers need to add an
antenna. Early product suggests aseries signal path becomes much harder and external fixed-value parallel
photographs released by resistor of 101S1 shunted to slower to turn 'off. This capacitor at this same point to
vendors generally tend to show ground by 220pF. happens when the negative ensure overall stability at high
no apparent external antenna. Iagree that all good feedback loop attempts output levels during the high
This could, however, be amplifiers might sound equally correction. It does so by collector voltage parts of a
cleverly disguised —afull well with such an input filter, inducing counter conduction waveform. Here, driver
wavelength at 2.4GHz is only but the more professional ones in the opposite output half. transistor Cbc. asymmetrically
12.5cm. would have their music signal There is now arisk of running falls to too low avalue.
In the case of Bluetooth- degraded at input, and this in a the amplifier into power It is true that the sort of
enabled phones, it is possible way that cannot subsequently sapping, fuse blowing or transistors often used for a
that the phone antenna doubles be corrected. smoke releasing output stage driver voltage amplification
as the Bluetooth antenna, but I Together, 101d1+220pF form cross conduction. stage can have internal
am not qualified to comment on alow-pass filter that introduces Mr Ellis mentions hard collector-base capacitance
the feasibility of this 0.3% harmonic distortion at switching. A differential input values that approach 100pF.
arrangement. 2kHz, and at all volume levels. pair can conduct input or But this is only at OV. As most
As for interference from Is this the realism that we are negative feedback loop current circuits normally operate above
microwave ovens, in afast attempting to achieve? through their bases but they ten volts, their working values
frequency-hopping system, it is A drum-stick 'rim strike' is cannot 'hard switch' like a tend to be less than 20pF.
quite possible for stray radiation one of the most dynamic, high switching transistor. This is This would have a
from amicrowave oven to spectrum, musical sounds that because they never lose their considerable bearing upon Mr
interfere with one of the challenges audio equipment. high collector voltages and Ellis's calculations —by a
seventy-nine channels —or Frankly, 101d1+220pF would thus do not slew. Actually factor of five. The phase shift
possibly two adjacent channels. ruin its wavefront —even where they recover extremely that his proposed filter is
The result would be alost data an amplifier might well be quickly —probably in obliged to introduce could thus
packet, which would be re- capable of reproducing such nanoseconds. be reduced from fifteen
transmitted on the next slot and fast waveforms at normal Also, adriver transistor fed degrees to just three degrees at
at the next frequency in the listening levels. It is similar to from an input mirror is easily 20kHz. This might be more
pseudo-random hopping putting aplain 18µH choke in turned on or off because its widely acceptable as a
sequence. series with an 8i1 loudspeaker, base is actively and domestic compromise, and
Performance degradation due which is audibly deleterious. conductively driven either on could be achieved using
to this interference would occur, Iagree that TID can be a or off. Additionally, it usually 3.9k,Q+100pF. Don't forget
but would be slight. The main problem, and the higher the has constant collector current though that the power amplifier
reason for frequency hopping is output voltage swing the sinking. itself then introduces its own
to avoid interference between greater the problem can be. But Drive overshoots that look negative feedback controlled
Bluetooth devices and from the Isee the use of some of the like interstage 'hard switch' phase distortion after this.
environment. better output devices or conduction are generally due Most amplifiers already have
to output device storage alow value shunt capacitor
effects after these have been between the base of the first
New -Windows 2000 users' forum driven to maximum driver transistor and ground. This
As CAD is an important part of most electronic circuit designers' job ,,, transistor current, or driver component is avital part of the
and in the light of Rod Cooper's recent review, we will be making space source current, to correct negative feedback loop.
for any comments you have on CAD and operating system compatibility errors. They are not due to However, it should not be so
issues. All tips, hints and experiences will be considered, provided that Miller effect at the driver high in value that with the
they are relevant to circuit designers using CAD. Peripherals, back-up transistor affecting that or series input resistor, plus line
and printing problems are included. earlier stages. You can check driver impedance, it causes
this by square wave irreversible signal phase

666 ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 LETTERS

distortion at audio frequencies. more severe than first apparent, amplifier designs, like those subsequently cope without
Ibelieve that the source or revealed when using test- from Mr Self. These really can itself distorting?
should determine the response bench loading resistors or sound superb when the mid- Whether active or passive in
as much as is safely possible. I computer simulation programs. treble amplifier is isolated from origin, all distortion must be
would not willingly start out Unless this is specifically the transient blunting that is minimised to reproduce sound
with aspecification worse than catered for, the entire amplifier induced by current demanding realistically, and that includes
one degree at 20kHz, this being can become momentarily electro-dynamic impedance phase distortion!
shared between an input filter imbalanced. This creates a reactions within bass Graham Maynard
and the power amplifier. zero-referenced error and a loudspeaker-crossover systems. Newtownabbey
My view of the problems transitory, phantom disturbance Also, the bass amplifier is then Northern Ireland
with asymmetrical, i.e. within the reproduced sound not expected to slew quickly
unbalanced, voltage amplifying field. anyhow.
driver stages is that, under The solution is some form of Ican confirm that when this
negative feedback control, they ensured current balancing or kind of asystem is driven Valve driver
are capable driving output limiting circuitry. Alternatively loudly enough for the bass Iwas pleased to see my valve
devices into maximum amuch more complex amplifier to start clipping amplifier drive circuit
conduction in one push-pull symmetrical arrangement is cleanly, overall reproduction published under Circuit ideas
half much more quickly than needed. This would be in the appears as little affected by the in the July 2000 issue.
are the resistor or form of complementary first- loss of bass power, as our However there are two errors:
semiconductor current sources stage input pairs. Each pair brains 'continue to hear' clean the collector voltages of Tri
feeding the opposing half. The would have mirroring and feed mid and upper reproduction and Tr2 should be 135V not
situation is made much worse • separate positive and negative instead of being distracted by 13.5V. Also, my address is
when the driver stage then rail drivers that act together. 'in your ear' distortion. Chale Green not Castle Green.
attempts to turn them off again, This is carefully explained in Surely the whole point is that Keith Cummins
for whichever was the faster an article by Mr Stochino. an amplifier must faithfully Chale Green
'on' subsequently becomes the Of course, we could simply follow its signal input, without Isle of Wight
slower 'off. use an electronic crossover to first modifying it. i.e. distorting
The problem is thus much hi-amp carefully optimised it, to ensure that it can

A new IM distortion
mechanism?
After reading the interesting article by Audio
8000
Anthony New in the June issue, THD is Notch
analyser

meaningless, it occurred to me that another filter

distortion mechanism may also be at work.

As Ihave never heard it described before I
have dubbed it LIIMD.
80
The voltage across amoving coil speaker
has two components, resistive —which is
linear —and back EMF, which is generated
A means of measuring load-induced intermodulation distortion'.
by the movement of the cone. This
includes non linearities from the
suspension and the cabinet and reverberant
effects. This is alow impedance signal
which is generally connected directly to
the output stage of the amplifier, where it
is free to generate intermodulation products o/p
with the input signal —especially at the i/p
crossover region where the open loop gain i/p stage VAS

of the amplifier may fall, and the output

stage is at its least linear.
Due to the fact that Ihave no access to Configuration of amodern amplifier.
appropriate test equipment Ihave been
unable to measure it. But if anyone is Could the continual witterings of the hi- transformer, are used and the resistance is
interested Ihave proposed away of testing fi fraternity about speaker cables be contributed by the transformer's windings.
my hypothesis below. related, as aspeaker cable is only isolation A more modern configuration is shown
The intermodulating signal is injected into between amplifier and speaker? That is to above.
the output of the amplifier under test by say that putting half an ohm between Is this aknown distortion mechanism?
means of an attenuator to isolate the signal amplifier and speaker may suppress this Am Ijust talking nonsense, or have I
source. The intermodulation products could mechanism. finally said something useful?
he seen on an audio analyser via anotch If so abetter solution would be to put the Jo Atkin
filter to remove one test signal so that output stage of the amplifier in alocal London
intermodulation products are not generated feedback loop and connect it to output
in the front end of the analyser. global feedback point via asmall resistor As you might have guessed. there's quite a
The two amplifiers used in the test should say an ohm. This is in aspirit resembling number of letters relating to Anthony New's
have separate PSUs to prevent triode and ultra-linear valve amplifiers. In article on intermodulation distortion. Iwill try
intermodulation being generated in the these, local feedback within the triodes, or to run them all together in the next issue
power supply. pentodes with feedback taps on the output Ed.

101-
August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD
 VISA VISA
MasterCard

OPERATING 8c SERVICE MANUALS

SUPPLIER OF QUALITY USED
TEST INSTRUMENTS

6 ..k. ...... ".nli

or!
r•••• r

,„, ,

r..;•••••••::::* •••••••
neo "go
`••• roe ...."..•-•;••••‘.•••••
• ••*..
••••••
••••
„..,• ea.*. ,
, u•••••
.0. • ea. ••••
u•••••
•••••••••
••••• •11•••••• ••••••••••••••

Free.
"

• • •
e•
• •••
1
.

"""••••• ...r
••••
. . .. I
•••.•••.
ett
••••••••• ••• wee
••••••••••••• •••••• y
••--

•• • tom*
...A.

••• ••••

Cooke International Cooke International

Unit Four, Fordingbridge Site, Barnham, Unit Four, Fordingbridge Site, Barnham,
Bognor Regis, West Sussex, P022 OHD, U.K. Bognor Regis, West Sussex, P022 OHD, U.K.
Tel: (+44)01243 545111/2 Fax: (+44)01243 542457 Tel: (+44)01243 545111/2 Fax: (+44)01243 542457

Web: http://www.cooke-int.com Web: http://www.cooke-int.com

E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected]
catalogue available catalogue available

CIRCI ENO.125 ON REPLY CARD CIRCLE ,N0.126 ON REPLY CARI)

ADVERTISERS' INDEX
CONFORD ELECTRONICS 633 QUICK ROUTE 592

COOKE INTERNATIONAL 668 RD RESEARCH 594

CROWNHILL 611
RALFE ELECTRONICS 633
DISPLAY ELECTRONICS 649
SEETRAX 653
EPTSOFT IBC
SIGHTMAGIC 633
H F INSTRUMENTS 631
STEWART OF READING 647
DATAMANN OBC
SURREY ELECTRONICS 633
JOHNS RADIO 599

JPG ELECTRONICS 631 INTEC 647

LABCENTER ELECTRONICS 628 TELNET IFC

MILFORD INSTRUMENTS 631 TIE PIE 597

PICO 592 VANN DRAPER 664

LANGREX SUPPLIES 647
WEB PAGES 662-664

ELECTRONICS WORLD August 2000

 As an advertiser you can be certain that your sales message is
going to be read by decision-making electronics professionals
with the power to purchase your products.
Service
The pre-paid rate for semi-display setting is £17 per single column centimetre
(maximum 4cm). Box number £22 extra. All prices plus 1772% VAT. All cheques,
postal orders etc to be made payable to Reed Business Information.
Advertisements together with remittance should be sent to Electronics World
Link
Classified, 12th Floor, Quadrant House, The Quadrant. Sutton, Surrey SM2 5AS.
Fax: 0208 652 3981. Tel: 0208 652 8339

ARTICLES FOR SALE RECRUITMENT

NN TED RF DESIGN
THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES
POST OF SENIOR ELECTRONICS
SERVICES ENGINEER/ELECTRONICS ENGINEER
TOP PRICES PAID IN THE ELECTRONICS UNIT MONA JAMAICA
All aspects of RF
For all your valves, Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for the post of Senior

tubes, semi conductors hardware development Electronics Engineer/Electronics Engineer in the Electronics Unit, The
University of the West Indies. Mona. Preference will be given to those
and IC's. considered from applicants with a higher degree and expertise in most of the following: Digital
and Analog Electronics. Instrumentation and Computer Technologies.
langrex Supplies Limited concept to production. The successful applicant will be required to provide leadership of the Unit and
1Mayo Road. Croydon, Surrey CRO 20P participate in the maintenance of sophisticated research and teaching
TEL: 020 8684 1166 FAX: 020 8684 3056 instruments. Also he/she will be expected to have experience in the
WATERBEACH ELECTRONICS management of a technical facility and will be required to assume duties as
Head of the Unit which includes engineers, technologists, technicians and
www.rlas er.dial.pipex.com administrators, and which could be poised for significant expansion.
Detailed applications (two copies), giving full particulars of nationality,
Rack Enclosures TEL: 01223 862550 qualifications and experience, date of birth, marital status and the names and
addresses of three referees should be sent to the Campus Registrar,
New and Used most sizes FAX: 01223 440853 (Attention: Senior Assistant Registrar (Appointments)), The University of the
16U to SOU side and rear panels West Indies, Mona, Kingston 7, Jamaica W. I. For further information about
mains distribution 19" Panel mounts the post, please contact the Dean. Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences. The
optima eurocraft Prices from f45 +vat University of the West Indies, Mona. Tel: (876)97 7-1 785, Fax (876)927-1566.
BEST PRICES PAID In order to expedite the appointment procedures, applicants are asked to
M&B Radio FOR VALVES, e g KT88. PX25
advise their referees to send confidential reports directly to the University
86 Bishopsgate Street Leeds LS1 488 EL37. DA100 — CASH WAITING!
without waiting to be contacted.
Tel. 01132702114 Fax. 0113 2426881
Wide range of valves The final date for the receipt of applications is 31st July 2000.
purchased and supplied
Visitors pleaSe phone for an appointment

SERVICES
BIllIngton Export Ltd, BIllIngshurst,
Sussex RH14 9EZ
billingtonexportlitd eebtinternet com Or

From
Tel: 01403 784961 Fax* 01403 783519
ROLEC r-
• i41-
171111
Cociot !Pm
Please Mention Rolec Services is acompany that specialises in the
Production
Electronic design and engineering services
Electronics World supply and installation of electric and water services
to Marinas and Caravan Sites. Over the last 5years
When Replying to
for the new millennium:

• Embedded control we have developed various metering and control

• Telecommunication products

advertisements systems using "Microchip" processors and more

• Datacommunication products
• SM PSU and battery management
•
•
Wireless transmission systems
Audio and Video processing
o CD recently "Hitachi" Microprocessors.
• OVO control systems
• Internet site and graphics authoring HPI744A storage scope unit manual £30t
•
•
•
PCB design
Schematic layout and re-drawing
Technical documentation& translation
nr inclusive. Many other scopes and items and test
equipment and components available. May flowei WANTED
Electronics. 48 Brendon Road, Watchet. Somerset
Tel/Fax: +44 (0) 1872 223306
Email designer systems@bfinternet tom
TA23 OFIT. Tel: 01984 631825. We are looking to appoint a company/person to
assess, modify, produce full parts, product lists and
V
WIRELESS WORLD magazines for sale. 197f
Designer
z Systems
to 1999. please telephone/fax S. lacovides 020.
7272 7139 or e-mail: [email protected]
manuals on these systems.
You will ideally have experience with fine-tuning of
FREE to collector, two earphones. Motorola
POWER SUPPLY DESIGN 4800X and NEC TR5E1320-1 1
A with handset)
circuit board design, programming and practical
Switched Mode PSU but no leads. Phone David Martin 01279 506212
knowledge of installation of such systems.
Power Factor Correction
designed to your specification QTY Electronic Equipment, Components. Data
Books etc. £550 ono. Tel/Fax 01280 848626. ROLEC SERVICES LIMITED
Tel/Fax: 01243 842520
e-mail: eugen kusercix.co.uk CCD weather proof camera and monitor foi Algores Way, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE13 2TQ
transport vehicle with lights, connecting cabli
Lomond Electronic Services etc. 24v dc. unused. £00 ono. 01522 751942. Tel: 01945 475165 Fax: 01945 588045

August 2000 ELECTRONICS WORLD ¡di')

 ELECTRONICUPDATE
A regular advertising feature
enabling readers to obtain more
Contact Pat Bunce on information on companies'

020 8652 8339 products or services.

Hioki's New 8807/8808 The Data Acquisition

Memory Recorder Product Guide
These compact, light recorders The Data Acquisition Product
have 2 or 4 analogue channels Guide from National Instruments
with isolated inputs, PC card outlines an extensive line of PC-
slot, fax/modem communication based tools available for
measurement and automation
tunction, versatile trigger
applications, including hardware
tunctions and 3-way power.
and software for analogue, digital,
They are ideal for a variety of and timing I/O: signal conditioning
applications requiring long and connectivity: image
memory lengths and high acquisition: motion control: and
transient speed capability. computer-based instruments.

Phone: 01635 523545

fl Tel:
Telonic Instruments Ltd
0118 978 6911 Fax: 01635 524395
e-mail: info.ukeni.com
Fax: 0118 979 2388
Web: www.ni.com/uk

CIRCLE NO.1211 ON REPLY CARO (11“ II \.() 12', (1\ ( SRI)

ELECTRONICS WORLD
is the longest established Call now for the Tvv Catalogue
magazine in the industry, featuring thousands of quality brand
name products.
with a history of over 80
• Adhesives, Aerosols & Cleaning
le active
ker
years. Supplies
wer focome
The editorial is the most • Datacom/Telecom, Cables &
GORIordo from Connectors
your RF generator respected in the industry,
Quantifying EMC • Test & Measurement
Make better notch f"
presenting ideas to innovate • Cutting & Polishing Tools
•
and improve products. • Too!kits, Cases & Bags

For all your advertising needs

Call Pat 0208 652 8339
E-mail: Patbunceerbi.co.uk

CIRCLE NO.130 ON REPLY CARI) ( I \ III (1N, MP!) ( IRO

The widest range of colour LCDs, LCD

monitors and plug and play kits
available in the UK, all in one easy to
TO ADVERTISE
use brochure, is now available FREE!
It includes information on products
ranging from 2.9" monitors to 16.1"
colour LCD screens, mono/colour STN
YOUR CURRENT
TFTs and touch screen technology
from the world's leading
manufacturers.
Phone TRIDENT today for your free
copy.
CATALOGUE /
TEL: 01737 780790
FAX: 01737 771908
OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE:
CD ROM
www.tridentdisplays.co.uk

CIRCLE NO.132 ON REPLY CARD

CONTACT
PAT BUNCE FOR
COldà.1.1 ,NI

PROGRAMMERS
•Hand held and bench top

DETAILS
•Single socket to 16 gang
•Stand alone and PC based
•DOS and Windows 3.1/95/NT
•Fast algorithms

TEL: 020 8652 8339

•Vast range of adaptors:-
-PLCC, QFP, SOIC,
-SSOP, BOA, etc...
Tel: +44(0) 181 953 9292

FAX: 020 8652 3981

Email: [email protected]
Web: vAvw.smartcom.co.uk

CIRCLE NO.133 ON REPLY CARD

 READER
ELECTRONICS
WORLD INFORMATION Newsagent order form
SERVICE
For more information about any of the products or services m this issue of ELECTRONICS WORLD
Pass this order form to your newsagent to
simply ring the relevant enquiry number ensure you don't miss the next issue of EW.
Enquiry numbers may be found at the bottom of each individual advertisement

To
101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 (name of Newsagent)
112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122
123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133
144
Please reserve me the September
134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143
145 146 147 148 149 150 issue of Electronics World
500 501 502 503 504
and continue to order
505 506 507 508 509 510 511 512 513 514 515 every month's issue until
516 517 518 519 520 521 522 523 524 525 526
527 528 529 530 531 532 533 534 535 536 537
further notice
538 539 540 541 542 543 544 545 546 547 548
549 550 551 552 553 554 555 556 557 558 559
560 561 562 563 564 565 566 567 568 569 570 Name
571 572 573 574 575 576 577 578 579 580 581
585 587 588 589 590 591 592 Address
582 583 584 586
593 594 595 596 597 598 599 600

Name
Job title

Company Address
Thank you

Telephone AUGUST 2000

Only tick here if you do not wish to receive direct marketing
promotions from other companies

Subscribe Subscribe
today! today!
Guarantee your own Guarantee your own
personal copy each month personal copy each month

Save on a2year Save on a2year

subscription subscription
ELECTRONICS ELECTRONICS
WORLD
 iE13A0 3S

ELECTRONICS ELECTRONICS
WQgt.w
p Melp
SUBSCRIPTION CARD SUBSCRIPTION CARD
Please enter my subscription to ELECTRONICS WORLD Ienclose Cheque Eurocheque Please enter my subscription to ELECTRONICS WORLD Ienclose Cheque Eurocheque
to the value of _ _ made payable to Reed Business Information
to the value of made payable to Reed Business Information
Please charge rtly Please charge

1H
MastercardAhsai

III
MastercardNisw'
Amex account
Amex account

With £ Expiry Date With £ Expiry Date

Signature Signature
Name Name
Job Title Job Title
Address Address

Postcode Postcode
Tel Country Tel Country

SUBSCRIPTION RATES Post to

SUBSCRIPTION RATES to:
Post
UK 1year £36 ELECTRONICS WORLD UK 1year £36 ELECTRONICS WORLD
UK 2years £58 P.O. Box 302 UK 2years £58 P.O. Box 302
UK 3years £72 UK 3years £72
Haywards Heath. Haywards Heath.
Student rate (proof required) £21.30 Student rate (proof required) £21.30
Airmail West Sussex RH16 3DH UK
Airmail West Sussex RH16 3DH UK.
Europe 1year £51 Europe 1year £51
Europe 2years £82 CREDIT CARD HOTLINE Europe 2years £82 CREDIT CARD HOTLINE
Europe 3years £103 Tel: +44 01444 445566 Europe 3years £103 Tel: +44 01444 445566
Rest of the world 1year £61 Rest of the world 1year £61
Fax: +44 01444 445447
Rest of the world 2years £98 Rest of the world 2years £98
Fax: +44 01444 445447

Rest of the world 3years £123 Please tick here if you do not wish to Rest of the world 3years £123 Please tick here if yOu do not wish to
Surface mail 1year £41 receive direct marketing-promotion from
Surface mail 1year £41 receive direct marketing-promotion from
other companies
other companies :71'
049 049
'Electronics, Electrical & Mathematics
Principles V6'
If you are looking for an easy and enjoyable way of studying or improving CD-ROM
your knowledge of electronics then this is the software for you. Students and Hobbyists the
complete package for
Lj Electronics. Electrical and Mathematics Principles V6
DC AC Electrical Semi-Cond Op-Amps Maths Digital Measure Micro PIC® Toolbox I
£49.95* ($82.17) normally £99.95*
2_‹1 Colleges and universities including
Electronics &Electrical Mathematics I Components Tools &Equipment I IC's unlimited user site licence.
Categ DC VOLTAGE: Loading aVoltage Divider
£299.95* normally £595.95*
Boolean &DeMc
*+VAT if applicable

=23mA Loaded Vout -7 268V

Postage FREE
Load = 10k
R1 Al
10k R2 ULoad •11973k
Binary Numbers

R2
47k 7268V RLoad R2
101,

I4.7k

Binary Arithmetic Load I

R2
Vout =Vin x R1 R2

Effect of connecting vour •Xt uage

.mily -9591837 •95919./

a load across R2. '

ection for
v. •30 ,n j
oire.,,,, 7268911 •
Analogue Multi-n F12 Il Load :illator
Vuut -Vin
R1 + (112 Il Load)
'Cl OSC2/C2
e
Remove Load I 100pF
15-33pF
Original Outp Calculations. Topic Notes Printing. Loading aVoltage Divider
Dp 00-150pF
Feedback vo
Cry e.-,onator 1b-3.
3pF 15.33pF
New Av - Av
1 + (Ay x B) 15-33pF 15 33pF
HS High Speed Crystal/Resonator
Effective Input =Input voltage (11 HS 15-33pF 15-33pF
New Output voltage = Input voltag 15-33pF

eatures. Full Windows integration.

nalogue. Explanatory text. "Electronics Principles is a well
igital. Hundreds of Electronics & 1 thought out and comprehensive
lectrical. Maths formulae with worked program that is also easy to
icroprocessors. examples using your inputs. install and stable in operation.
IC Microcontrollers. All calculations are shown. It can be wholeheartedly
athematics. Default values on startup. recommended."
lectronics Toolbox. Easy to use, no prior Robert Penfold. Everyday
omponents and Equipment knowledge assumed. Practical Flectronics magazine.
ictionary. Comprehensive menu and
Fully interactive graphics, indexing. www.eptsoft.com
graphs and calculations. Covers college courses from
Single page colour printing. entry to university level.
rer Code. IMMI3
ramponent Iype

Please telephone or visit our web site 11 Black .0

Colour Veer,
3 Blue •6
Tdefence
Red •2% r 741444nd
II Brown .1 e Vein •7 Gold .55

for a list of over 900 topics from

Ripartor.
• Red .2 Grey .8 Sever •1CdC
Orange •3 Vente •9 • Fne Sand
Reeice
'4 Bands 1to 3•numence velum, fourth •mohair., o'

Ohm's Law to PIC' microcontrollers.

Y.4°.
Green •5 meter of nouçtres For yak.« <10ohnu Fourth bend a
gold rnultplser •01or seves mutated .001

eptsoft limited. Pump House, Lockram Lane, Witham,

Yellow. Vide Black. Red - 47kOhos

Essex. UK. CM8 2BJ. Ir doused fiends

Feet Band Second Bend Thad Band Fourth Bend Frith Bind

Tel: 01376 514008. Fax: 0870 0509660 [email protected] l JIv IBL8c' .7.] MIME
Switch, Delta, Visa and MasterCard payments accepted - Five Band Resista Vakie D Nederred value (12 Seri«.

please give card number and expiry date. I7k 17k

Cheques and P.O. made payable to eptsoft limited. olmanc•

52
Pirefeited yaks, (24 Series.
47k
 Money-Back
Surely not. Surely someone somewhere
has developed aportable programmer that
30 day Trial
has even more features, even greater If you do not agree that these
flexibility and is even better value for money. truly are the most powerful
Actually, no. But don't take our word for portable programmers you
it. Use the feature summary below to see how can buy, simply return your
other manufacturers products compare. Dataman product within 30
days for afull refund

Dataman-48LV
Plugs straight into parallel port of PC or
laptop
• Programs and verifies at 2, 2.7, 3.3 and 5V
• True no-adaptor programming up to 48 pin
DIL devices
• Free universal 44 pin PLCC
adaptor
• Built-in world standard PSU -
for go-anywhere
programming
• Package adaptors
available for TSOP,
PSOP, QFP, SOIC and
PLCC
• Optional EPROM emulator

free software

upgrades +
CE Dataman S4
Programs 8and 16 bit EPROMs, EEPROMs,
PEROMs, 5and 12V FLASH, Boot-Block technical support
FLASH, PICs, 8751 microcontrollers and
more
• EPROM emulation as standard for life
• Rechargeable battery power for total
portability
• All-in-one price includes emulation leads,
year
GUARANTEE
AC charger, PC software, spare library ROM,
user-friendly manual
• Supplied fully charged and ready to use Support
• 3year parts and labour guarantee

S4 GAL module • Windows/DOS software included

• Free technical support for life
Programs wide range of 20 and 24 pin logic
• Next day delivery -always in stock
devices from the major GAL vendors
Supports JEDEC files from all popular • Dedicated UK supplier, established 1978

compilers

Still as unbeatable
as ever!
DAulinan
Dataman Programmers Ltd, Station Road,
Beware of cheap imitations. Beware of false
promises. Beware of hidden extras. Maiden Newton, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 OAE, UK

If you want the best, there's still only one Telephone +44/0 1300 320719
Fax +44/0 1300 321012
01300 32071e choice -Dataman.
Order via credit card hotline -phone today, BBS +44/0 1300 321095 (24hr)
Modem V.34N.FCN.32bis
La
use tomorrow.
Alternatively, request more detailed Home page: http://www.dataman.com
Orders received by 4pm will normally be despatched same day. information on these and other market- FTP: fitp.dataman.com
Order today, get it tomorrow! leading programming solutions. Email: [email protected]