Here’s an app note from ST discussing how the bootloader works and how it’s activated –the general concept of the bootloader (PDF!): The bootloader is stored in the internal boot ROM memory (system memory) of STM32 devices. It is programmed by ST during production. Its main task is to download the application program to the internal Flash memory through one […]
Category Archives: app notes
app note: Isolating I2C interfaces
an I2C isolation solution from Analog Devices, app note can be found here. The Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C®) bus is a two-wire bidirectional bus used for low speed, short-distance communication between integrated circuits. Developed by Philips 1980 in the early 1980s for use amongst ICs on a single board, I2C today is increasingly being used in […]
app note: Generic data transfer using USB HID
Here’s an app note from Nordic Semiconductor on using nRF24LU1+ USB HID communication. The Universal Serial Bus is the de factor inustry standard for the connection of computer peripherals, with approximately two billion sold devices every year. The success of USB is in large part due to its end product ease of use. However, such […]
app note: Digital Potentiometers: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ on Analog Device’s digital Potentiometers. App note here. A digiPOT is a digitally controlled resistor that changes the impedance between the terminals and wiper depending on the code loaded in the RDAC register. Digital potentiometers avoid the problems that mechanical potentiometers face, such as physical size and wear and tear, as well as sensitivity […]
app note: How to Oversample 5 MSPS, 18-Bit/16-Bit Precision SAR Converters to Increase Dynamic Range
Here’s how you can maximize your ADC’s Dynamic Range by oversampling, an app note from Analog Devices. One of the ways to achieve a higher dynamic range is to oversample the converter to accurately monitor and measure both small and large input signals from the sensors. There are a number of other ways to increase […]
App note: Introduction to SHA-256 Master/Slave authentication
An application from Maxim: Introduction to SHA-256 Master/Slave authentication A new group of secure authenticators and a companion secure coprocessor/1-Wire® master implement SHA-256 authentication. This application note explains the general logistics of this SHA-256-based security system and introduces the bidirectional authentication functionality that the authentication system uses.
app note: FTDI Device Input Output Pin States
A reference app note on their reset, suspend and active states of the input / output pins of various FTDI’s devices. FTDI devices covered are: FT232R, FT245R, FT232H, FT2232H, FT4232H, FT2232D, FT200XD, FT201X, FT220X, FT221X, FT230X, FT231X, FT234XD, FT240X, FT120, FT121, FT122 & FT313H.
app note: FTDI MPSSE Basics
Introducing the FTDI’s Multi-Protocol Synchronous Serial Engine basics app note. FTDI’s MPSSE provides a flexible means of interfacing synchronous serial devices to a USB port. By being “Multi-Protocol”, the MPSSE allows communication with many different types of synchronous devices, the most popular being SPI, I2C and JTAG. Data formatting and clock synchronization can be configured […]
App note: Current sensing high side switch
App note from International Rectifier on their IR331x part which offers a bunch of power protection and control all in one chip. The new IR331x devices designed in P3 technology provide enhanced accuracy for current feedback measurement. Ideal for high-demand applications — including advanced power management systems commonly found in online gaming infrastructures such as […]
App note: Current ratings of power semiconductors and thermal design
Here’s an app note from International Rectifier discussing on semiconductor’s limitations. This application note described the methods commonly used to calculate peak junction temperature in a power circuit. It also explains the assumptions behind the current ratings of power semiconductors.
App note: Understanding and Minimizing Ground Bounce
Another old app note from Fairchild on Ground Bounce issues. Ground bounce has been a concern to some system designers for many years. Its effects can be found in most bipolar and CMOS logic families. However, ground bounce has recently become a major issue. Although new advanced CMOS logic families have edge rates comparable to […]
App note: Using Fairchild’s LVX low voltage dual supply CMOS translating transceivers
Here’s a fairly old app note on Fairchild’s take of voltage translation ICs. The Fairchild CMOS Translating Transceivers: 74LVX3245, 74LVX4245, 74LVXC3245, and 74LVXC4245 are true voltage translating devices. This is accomplished by electrically isolating the A-side from the B-side. The LVX Translating Transceivers are divided into two types of devices, Dual Supply Translating Transceivers, and […]
App note: In-system calibration with the 78M6610+PSU energy measurement processor
Another application from Maxim on how to calibrate a measurement subsystem using the 78M6610+PSU: The 78M6610+PSU is an energy measurement processor that is embedded in high-power switch-mode power-supply units (PSUs) to measure and report the real-time power used by the system. As with any measurement device, the sense circuit used with the 78M6610+PSU must be […]
App note: Thermal Management Handbook
A Thermal Management handbook from Maxim, , app note here: Maxim’s Thermal Management Handbook includes temperature sensing and fan control concepts, circuits and application guidelines. Thermistors, thermocouples, RTDs, and various IC temperature sensors (local temperature sensors, remote temperature sensors, analog temperature sensors, digital temperature sensors, and temperature switches) are discussed, as well as various approaches […]
App note: PCB Design Guidelines for QFN and DQFN Packages
Efficiently design your PCB involving QFN or DQFN packages with this App note from Microchip. Successful implementation of QFN and DQFN packages requires special consideration for printed circuit board (PCB) layout and solderpaste stencil production. This application note describes the important items to consider. QFN packages are physically robust, thermally efficient, and occupy much less […]
App note: USB Battery Charging with the Microchip/SMSC USB2534 Hub Controller
USB2534 Hub Controller Chip provides various battery charging protocols built-in. App note here. The Universal Serial Bus (USB) is the most used computer interface in the world. It started as an expansion bus for personal computers, but has proliferated quickly due to its flexibility, performance, and hot plug capability. It is used by most portable […]
App note – Distribution automation and the smart grid: Coming of age with a new set of challenges
Another good app note from Maxim – Distribution automation and the smart grid: Coming of age with a new set of challenges The combination of aging electricity grid infrastructure and renewable portfolio standards present new challenges in the distribution automation space worldwide. In this application note, we review three key areas: asset protection, security, and asset management. […]
App note: Ensuring the complete life-cycle security of smart meters
Solutions to security threats faced by smart meters through their entire life cycle from Maxim, app note here: This application note explores the various potential points of attack in the life cycle of smart meters: during manufacturing, installation, operation, and post-installation. The application note then discusses real solutions to these security vulnerabilities, such as the use […]
app note: High-Side Switch Using LDO Regulator Controller
An old but good app note from Micrel using LDO Regulator as High Side switch controller. The Micrel MIC5158 Super LDO™ Voltage Regulator Controller can be used as a high-side switch driver that features a relatively accurate current limit. The part is normally intended for driving the MOSFET pass device of a voltage regulator. It […]
app note: Simple Current-Limiting Power Supply
A simple current-limiting power supply from Micrel, app note here. Just three ICs are required to build this adjustable-voltage, adjustable-current-limit power supply that operates like a laboratory supply. It offers an output voltage range of 0V to 25V and a current limit range of about 10mA to 1.5A. The Micrel MIC29152 LDO Regulator has a […]