Each week, the editor of Planet Analog finds items of interest and then features them in two sections, entitled "Also of Interest" and "Elementals". Each cites items from publications outside the Planet Analog and EETimes portfolios. And we also have an archive of recent weekly Planet Analog Newsletters, as pdf files; see the list at the very bottom.

"Also of Interest" and "Elementals" is an extension of our belief that engineers are interested in on-going tutorial on obviously relevant topics, as well as the serendipity of exploring topics which are not directly related to their jobs, but which will broaden their knowledge and sometimes spurs innovative and creative approaches. The first box highlights items of general interest to the engineer, while the second highlights basic and tutorial electronic-engineering material. Among the publications we check are IEEE Spectrum, Machine Design, Design News, Laser Focus World, EDN, Electronic Design, NASA Tech Briefs, Microwave Journal, RF & Microwaves, and Physics Today, plus others.

Consider these items as "online-only" extras, and worth a look. (Please note: there are also links to the previous weeks' editions, below this week's items.)

Also of Interest:

• This device replaces a conventional tube cap and enables a user to dispense an exact dose:
  "Exact Dose Dispensing Closure for Semi-Solids,"
  NASA Tech Briefs, November 2009
• The compact, low-energy-consumption performance-rich attributes of photonic technologies ensure their place in the automobiles of the immediate future:
  "Auto industry is set to reap cost and performance benefits from photonics,"
  Laser Focus World, November 2009
• Simulation software supports many areas of automotive design:
  "Virtual Modeling Helps Build Better Cars,"
  Machine Design, December 2009
• Networked automation lifts and lowers video board at Dallas Cowboys Stadium:
  "Dallas Cowboys Unveil 600 Ton Video Board Hoist,"
  Design News, December 2009

Elementals:

• The ADS suite of CAE software can be used to perform simulations on RF and microwave circuits with results that include the effects of component tuning:
  "Simulating RF Tuned Stages,"
  Microwaves & RF, November 2009
• The choice and design of the magnetic elements at the heart of an SMPS are crucial:
  "What every designer should know about magnetics in switch-mode power supplies,"
  EDN, November 26, 2009
• A variety of over-current and overvoltage products are on the market for protecting VDSL telecommunications circuits:
  "Select Optimal Protection For Your VDSL-Based Telecom Circuits,"
  Electronic Design, November 18, 2009
• The ability to deliver a pure, accurate signal at +25 dBm or greater ensures improved measurement accuracy, and enables testing of extreme or unusual operating conditions:
  "Explore The Benefits Of High-Output Signal Generators In Your RF Test Setup,"
  Electronic Design, November 16, 2009

Previous "Also of Interest" and "Elementals" Editions:

• January 25, 2010
• January 18, 2010
• January 11, 2010
• January 4, 2010

Recent Planet Analog Newsletters:

• January 27, 2010
• January 20, 2010
• January 13, 2010
• January 6, 2010