Columns

This is the first of seven articles devoted to the topic of shielding to prevent electromagnetic wave radiation. The results presented here are valid under the assumption of a uniform plane wave with normal (perpendicular) incidence on a boundary between two media.

A new version of Technical Report TR18.0-01-25 (TR18) on ESD Electronic Design Automation (EDA) Checks by the ESD Association’s Working Group 18 is about to be released. This article, divided into Part 1 and Part 2, provides guidelines for the EDA industry and the ESD design community for establishing a comprehensive ESD verification flow to address the ESD design challenges of modern ICs.

This column examines inductor impedance evaluation using S₂₁ parameters with network analyzers. Comparing two-port shunt and series methods across multiple inductors, it concludes that the two-port series method provides significantly more accurate measurements when compared with manufacturer data.

This article introduces an upcoming Technical Report (TR18) from the ESD Association on Electronic Design Automation checks. It details integrated ESD verification throughout IC design phases, covering schematic-based topological checks and layout-based verification to ensure comprehensive ESD protection in modern circuits.

This article explores a radiated emissions case where unexpected high-frequency noise appeared on low-speed I/O lines. The author discusses how power distribution network design issues can cause emissions problems and shares strategies for improving EMC performance through proper PCB layout.

This article introduces ANSI Z535.7, a new standard released in late 2024 addressing product safety information in electronic media. It complements existing ANSI standards by providing guidelines for digital formats, helping manufacturers create consistent safety messaging across both physical and electronic platforms.

This first installment in a two-part series evaluates inductor impedance using S11 parameters across one-port shunt, two-port shunt, and two-port series methodologies. Experimental results reveal significant discrepancies between measured values and manufacturer specifications, highlighting limitations in S11-based impedance characterization techniques.

The teaser maintains a technical, authoritative tone that should appeal to engineering professionals while highlighting the article's key experimental findings. It addresses the misconceptions about AC ionizer safety and emphasizes the quantitative approach taken in the study, which should generate interest among readers concerned with ESD protection in semiconductor manufacturing environments.

This article explores S₂₁ parameter methods for measuring capacitor impedance. Comparing two-port shunt and series techniques with established benchmarks reveals the two-port shunt method delivers superior accuracy across multiple capacitor values and frequency ranges.

By understanding resistance in discharge circuits, engineers can implement effective protection through grounding, dissipative materials, and equipotential bonding—creating comprehensive ESD control programs that safeguard sensitive electronic components.