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The Isolated Half-Bridge: An IGBT Gate Driver Module with Current Sense

The Isolated Half-Bridge: An IGBT Gate Driver Module with Current Sense

This project brief describes how to assemble an isolated half-bridge IGBT gate driver module built around the NCD57085DR2G. It features onboard current sensing and overcurrent protection.


Understanding the Characteristics of Narrowband Noise in Communication Systems

Understanding the Characteristics of Narrowband Noise in Communication Systems

In this article, we analyze how bandpass filtering affects the power spectral density (PSD) of noise and explore how noise can be described by in-phase and quadrature components.


The Voice Echo: An Arduino Audio Project

The Voice Echo: An Arduino Audio Project

This project brief explains how to construct a PCB-based audio-processing platform with an ATmega328 microcontroller. A link to Arduino code for creating an audio echo is also provided.


Electrical Balance and Modal Analysis

Electrical Balance and Modal Analysis

In this article, we'll explore how modal analysis can be applied to problems of balance and common-mode current.


The Kilo Lamp: An Interactive Lamp Controller

The Kilo Lamp: An Interactive Lamp Controller

This project brief provides the instructions for building a weight-sensitive LED lamp with an Arduino Uno and a handful of commercially available parts.


Bricking Proof: Designing Safety-Critical RTL for eFuse Controllers

Bricking Proof: Designing Safety-Critical RTL for eFuse Controllers

An RTL glitch in an eFuse controller can permanently brick costly silicon. This article covers defense-in-depth FSM design, redundant watchdogs, and formal SVA verification.


The Many Definitions of Electrical Balance

The Many Definitions of Electrical Balance

In this article, we'll use practical examples to define and demonstrate the concept of electrical balance. In particular, we’ll examine differential signals and coax currents.


From Tracking Filters to Demodulation: Exploring the Applications of PLLs

From Tracking Filters to Demodulation: Exploring the Applications of PLLs

In this article, we'll learn about several key applications of PLLs in communication systems, including tracking filters, frequency and phase modulation, and FM and AM demodulation.


Class AB vs. Class D: Understanding the Trade-Offs for Piezo Driver Design

Class AB vs. Class D: Understanding the Trade-Offs for Piezo Driver Design

In this article, we explore when to choose a Class AB or Class D output stage for your piezo amplifier design. We'll also examine the Class D stage's power supply requirements.


Understanding the Hogge Detector and the Triwave Solution

Understanding the Hogge Detector and the Triwave Solution

The Hogge phase detector plays multiple roles in CDR circuits. In this article, we'll explore the Hogge detector's behavior, highlight its main drawbacks, and introduce a different configuration that addresses them.


Design and Performance of the Class D Output Stage for Piezo Drivers

Design and Performance of the Class D Output Stage for Piezo Drivers

In this article, we explore the operation of a Class D stage with a capacitive load and how it can be used in piezo amplifier design.


Operation of a Linear Phase Detector for Clock and Data Recovery

Operation of a Linear Phase Detector for Clock and Data Recovery

Learn how the Hogge detector addresses the challenges of clock and data recovery (CDR) for data signals with limited clock information.


Evaluating the Class AB Output Stage for Piezo Driver Design

Evaluating the Class AB Output Stage for Piezo Driver Design

We examine the basic requirements of piezoelectric amplifiers and how Class AB operation can meet them.


Using the Arduino Uno Q to Build a DDS Sine Wave Generator

Using the Arduino Uno Q to Build a DDS Sine Wave Generator

In this project, we'll construct and test a microcontroller-based system that digitally generates analog signals.


Projects Apr 19, 2026 by Don Wilcher
Introduction to Clock and Data Recovery

Introduction to Clock and Data Recovery

Learn how PLLs enable communication in which a clock signal is not transmitted with the data. We’ll look specifically at return-to-zero (RZ) and non-return-to-zero (NRZ) data formats.


Preventing Runt Pulses in Phase/Frequency Detectors

Preventing Runt Pulses in Phase/Frequency Detectors

This article explains the importance of incorporating delay into the feedback path of a phase/frequency detector (PFD) and examines its effect on performance.


Introduction to Phase/Frequency Detectors

Introduction to Phase/Frequency Detectors

Learn how using a phase/frequency detector (PFD) in place of a phase detector improves the acquisition range of a PLL.


Introduction to the RS Flip-Flop Phase Detector

Introduction to the RS Flip-Flop Phase Detector

Learn about this simple sequential phase detector and how it compares to the XOR gate. We'll also examine some key limitations and circuit implementations.


Constructing a Solar-Powered Snake Robot

Constructing a Solar-Powered Snake Robot

Learn how to create a batteryless crawling robot using basic electronic components and a 3D-printed chassis.


Understanding the Exclusive-OR Phase Detector

Understanding the Exclusive-OR Phase Detector

This article explores the operation of the simplest digital phase detector: the exclusive-OR (XOR) gate.