月: 2023年2月

What Is a Smell Sensor?

A smell sensor is a device that can quantify the evaluation of smells that have traditionally relied on the expertise of sensory testing panelists and odor judges.

Among the five human senses, olfaction and taste are recognized by receptors in the nose and tongue that detect components of food, cosmetics, etc. However, the chemical substances that make up these components vary enormously and are often perceived in complex ways, so research and development of sensors has lagged behind that of other senses.

The human sense of smell is an ambiguous sense that varies greatly from person to person, but smell sensors have made it possible to evaluate smells objectively.
While gas sensors and other devices are available, which identify and quantify individual components, smell sensors enable comprehensive judgment and evaluation of the quality and intensity of an odor.

Uses of Smell Sensors

Currently, smell sensors are useful in the following areas: (1) research and development and quality control of food and cosmetics, (2) measurement of environmental odors, and (3) monitoring of abnormalities in gas, fire, etc.

In case of (1), the sensor is used not for individual gas components, but for subtle identification of the odor emitted by an object.

In case (2), it is used when odor intensity is an issue, such as in the management of work environments and measurement of the effectiveness of deodorization equipment.

In case (3), it is used for safety control purposes, although it does not require correspondence with the human sense of smell.

In addition, for the purpose of medical diagnosis, a sensor that tests for the presence or absence of disease by detecting breath components unique to cancer patients is under development for practical use.

Principle of Smell Sensors

There are two main types of smell sensors: semiconductor and quartz crystal sensors.

The “semiconductor type” has long been used as a gas sensor, and it detects odors by utilizing the change in resistance of a semiconductor due to a surface reaction caused by the adsorption of odor molecules on the semiconductor surface. These systems can be further classified into two types: oxide semiconductor type and organic semiconductor type.
Tin oxide and zinc oxide are used in the oxide semiconductor type, which is used to obtain an output proportional to the presence or absence of a substance and its concentration. Inorganic odorants such as gases are commonly detected, but the sensitivity is low for organic compounds such as fragrances.
Polypyrrole and polyacetylene are used in the organic semiconductor type and are capable of odor discrimination. However, they have the disadvantage of being expensive.

The quartz crystal resonator type consists of a lipid membrane, which is a sensitive membrane that imitates human olfactory cells, attached to the surface of a resonator. When odor molecules are adsorbed on the sensitive membrane, the resonance frequency of the resonator decreases due to the mass loading effect. Using the mechanism whereby the amount of decrease is proportional to the mass of the adsorbed odorant, the concentration of the odorant is measured by measuring the amount of decrease. The system is particularly good at detecting organic odorants and can discriminate between whiskey, Japanese sake, coffee, and perfume.
Types of odor-sensitive membranes used include epoxy resin membranes, vinyl acetate resin membranes, and Langmuir-Blodgett membranes.

What Is a Smartphone-Mounted Odor Sensor?

In 2019, a compact odor sensor that can be attached to a smartphone (smart phone) was developed. The smell sensors can be detected by connecting the smell sensors to the smartphone via USB Yype-C. The detected smells can be used for gas leakage, freshness control of food, body odor, alcohol check, etc.

This smell sensor is a quartz crystal with a sensitive membrane. It incorporates detector particles with different sensing membranes to detect a wide variety of odors.

When connected to a smartphone, the smartphone serves as the analysis platform. The type and strength of each odor detected is analyzed, and the results are displayed on the smartphone.

Although general sales of the smartphone-mounted smell sensors have not yet been decided, research and improvements are ongoing, and it is expected that the sensor will be able to detect about 10 different types of smells. The product is expected to sell for under $100, making it affordable for everyone in the future. The device is portable, easy to carry, and can detect and manage odors easily and conveniently.

Currently, research is underway to convert the types of smells into data and have AI perform machine learning. This is planned to improve the accuracy of smell sensors and analysis. The number of types of smells that can be detected is also planned to be increased.

Quantification of Smells in Smell Sensors

The term “smell” has no clear standard or unit, such as “odor” and “stench,” “fragrance” and “scent.” In smell sensors, too, a method of measuring “smell” is needed. The smell is measured and expressed based on the intensity and comfort or discomfort perceived by the human sense of smell.

Olfactometrics express the intensity and comfort or discomfort perceived by the human sense of smell. These are further classified into four types and each odor is quantified in a step-wise manner.

The four methods are “odor intensity,” “pleasantness/displeasure,” “odor index,” and “periodic frequency.”

The odor index display method is a quantification of odor concentration and odor index.

Odor concentration is defined as “the dilution factor required to reach odorlessness when diluted with odorless clean air. The odor index is the value obtained by multiplying the ordinary logarithm of the odor concentration by 10. These values are used as a reference and incorporated into the smell sensors.

What Is a Sliding Screw?

A Sliding Screw is a type of feed screw, a mechanical element used to convert rotational motion obtained from a motor or other source into linear motion.

The rotational motion of a motor can be converted into linear motion on a linear motion mechanism such as a linear guide by the linear motion of the nut section that accompanies the rotation of the screw shaft. It consists of a combination of a screw shaft and a nut section. A material with good sliding characteristics is used for the nut section.

Sliding Screws have the same function as ball screws, which have a similar mechanism, but since they do not require balls, they can be realized with a simple mechanism and are relatively inexpensive. Because of these advantages, Sliding Screws are used in linear motion parts of precision equipment and various other electronic devices.

Applications of Sliding Screws

Sliding Screws are used in linear motion in precision equipment, typically in semiconductor manufacturing equipment. In the case of ball screws, there is a risk of balls falling out and getting mixed in with the manufactured product. However, with Sliding Screws, there is no need to worry about balls getting mixed in. For this reason, they are widely used in medical and food manufacturing equipment.

Principle of Sliding Screws

Sliding Screws are able to convert rotational motion into linear motion because the screw is formed in a spiral shape. Rotation of the screw shaft causes the nut part to move in the axial direction of the screw shaft.

Since force is converted by sliding between the screw shaft and nut part, the coefficient of friction and wear resistance of the contact surface are extremely important. In order to satisfy low friction and wear resistance, bronze casting BC6C or polyacetal resin POM is used for the nut part.

Carbon steel for machine structural use S45C and austenitic stainless steel SUS304 are used for screw shafts because of their excellent wear resistance. The combination of a stainless steel screw shaft and a polyacetal resin nut part has excellent corrosion resistance, making it useful as a linear motion mechanism for machines that are used in wet environments.

When fastening a component to a resin nut, the tightening torque must be adjusted to prevent damage to the nut section.

Types of Sliding Screws

There are three types of Sliding Screws depending on the shape of the screw.

1. Triangular Screws

This type of screw has an equilateral triangular thread profile and is also used for fastening. They are easy to process and provide high accuracy among Sliding Screws. On the other hand, its disadvantage is poor power transmission efficiency. 

2. Trapezoidal Thread

Trapezoidal screws have trapezoidal threads. The angle of the slope, called the half angle of the screw thread, is 30 or 29 degrees. This type of screw is often used for Sliding Screws of processing machines and machine parts.

3. Square Thread

Square threads are screws with square threads. Although they are less precise in positioning, they have high power transmission efficiency, and are therefore often used in machines that transmit large axial forces, such as presses and jacks.

Other Information on Sliding Screws

1. Difference From Ball Screws

Sliding Screws are less expensive than ball screws because they do not require complex mechanisms. On the other hand, their positioning accuracy (explained in the next section) is lower than that of ball screws, equivalent to C10 class. Sliding Screws are also vulnerable to shear forces and moments other than in the axial direction, and their transmission efficiency is lower than that of ball screws.

Therefore, when Sliding Screws are used, they are sometimes used together with linear guides to limit the direction of the load. In addition, ball screws are suitable when high efficiency operation and high positioning accuracy are required. 

2. Positioning Accuracy

JIS classifies ball screw lead accuracy using JIS B 1192 (ISO 3408). C0, C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, and C6.

C0, C1, C2, C3, and C5 are defined as precision ball screws, with smaller numbers indicating higher precision, and C7, C8, and C10 as rolling ball screws. As mentioned earlier, the positioning accuracy of Sliding Screws is equivalent to that of the C10 class. C10 allows an error of up to ±210μm for a travel of 300mm.

What Is a VPN Router?

A VPN router is a router equipped with VPN (Virtual Private Network) functionality.

VPN is a function that sets up a virtual private line on the internet to create a dedicated network that only certain people can use. People who want to connect to the VPN router install a VPN router to access the VPN.

A VPN connection provides enhanced security and secure communication. For this reason, it has rapidly penetrated society along with the demand for remote work. On the other hand, it is also important to have the right knowledge and be prepared for the risk of information leakage; some companies that have introduced VPNs assign dedicated technicians to manage the communication status.

Uses of VPN Routers

VPN routers are mainly deployed by companies to access data at their headquarters from remote locations such as regional branches or homes. Since it is like being connected to a common LAN, files can be shared and worked on.

Encryption, which is an essential security measure, is all handled by the dedicated VPN routers, so there is no significant burden on the individual. In addition, because it uses the existing Internet, the installation cost is low, and demand for VPN routers are increasing among companies that promote remote work.

Principle of VPN Routers

The basic principles of VPN routers are tunneling and encryption plus authentication. It is also the most important item in terms of preventing information leakage.

Tunneling refers to the process of encapsulation and sending this encapsulated data. Encapsulation makes the data unreadable by simple capture, but this alone is not sufficient security.

There are several types of encryption techniques, and there is still active development of secure and functionally superior methods and software. The following are examples of encryption technologies.

1. IPsec VPN

Encryption and authentication are performed at the network layer. While highly secure, it is necessary to consider compatibility with firewalls.

2. SSL VPN

Encryption and authentication are performed at the session layer (SSL encryption). This is often used when deploying remote work but is slightly less secure than other methods.

3. L2VPN

SSL encryption and authentication are performed, and communication is encapsulated in the data link layer. It can be installed at a low cost and is suitable for Windows OS.

In addition to the above, port forwarding and other methods to overcome the compatibility with firewalls are emerging. Furthermore, two-step authentication (sending a security code to an e-mail after entering an ID/password) can be introduced to significantly reduce risk.

Other Information on VPN Routers

1. How to Set Up VPN Routers

In order to use VPN routers to establish a VPN connection, it must be configured in advance. VPN routers that is not properly configured can become a security hole and cause unauthorized access.

Configure the type of encryption to be used for the VPN.
Generally, select from IPsec and PPTP. For home use, the open source OpenVPN is another option. For commercial use, IPsec with a high level of security is preferred. In addition, for IPsec, set a pre-shared key string of at least 32 characters.

Set up users who can connect to the VPN.
Register user names and passwords for the number of people to be allowed access. If necessary, consider more complex authentication methods such as matrix authentication or two-factor authentication.

Perform a connection test
Once the VPN routers are configured, the client needs to test the connection. At this time, you will need to register the IP address or server name of the router. Once you have confirmed that you can successfully access the VPN routers, the setup is complete.

2. Price of VPN Routers

VPN routers are available in a variety of products depending on their specifications. Prices vary depending on the full range of security features and the number of protocols supported.

The price range for VPN routers for home use can be several hundred dollars. For office use, the price can range from several hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.

For routers for large-scale VPN networks used in data centers, the main price range can approach $5,000-$10,000. Such VPN routers are designed to a higher specification, with a larger communication bandwidth than cheaper products.

What Is a VDSL Modem?

A VDSL Modem is a type of communication format that converts analog signals from the telephone line and digital signals from the Web into each other.

The word “modem” means “modulation and demodulation device”, and this device enables Internet communications over telephone lines. VDSL is an abbreviation for “Very high bitrate Digital Subscriber Line” and is the fastest communication method among the existing methods using telephone lines (xDSL).

VDSL is mainly used for internet connections to condominiums, apartments, and other residential complexes.

Usage of VDSL Modem

VDSL Modem is used for VDSL Internet connection. As mentioned above, a VDSL Modem is necessary for communication via telephone lines when using VDSL Internet in a housing complex, etc. By installing a VDSL Modem in the house, it is possible to send and receive analog and digital signals.

Although VDSL communication is faster than other xDSL communication methods, it is slower than fiber-optic communication, at about one-tenth the speed of fiber-optic communication.

Principle of VDSL Modem

In the VDSL system, an optical fiber is connected to the main distribution panel called “MDF room” in a condominium complex, and from there it is connected to each residence via telephone lines. The VDSL system uses a telephone line to connect to the main wiring board in the housing complex.

Since a telephone line is used, a modem is required to access the Internet even with the VDSL system, and a “VDSL Modem” is used for this purpose. In the optical wiring system, which is similar to the VDSL system, optical lines are extended from an electric wire to each residence. Therefore, unlike VDSL, all communication lines are optical lines.

This difference in maximum speed between VDSL and optical wiring systems is due to the difference in whether the communication line is via a telephone line or an all-optical line.

Types of VDSL Modem

1. Asynchronous Modem

This is the most commonly used type. Asynchronous modems communicate with bit synchronization, flag synchronization such as High-Level Data Link Control (HLDC), and block synchronization with character synchronization using the data signal itself. It is less fast and reliable, but less expensive. 

2. Synchronous Modem

This type of modem is used in some business applications. Data and synchronization signals are sent from the terminal device on separate signal lines and then transmitted on a single transmission line. At the receiving end, the data and synchronous signals are separated and received by the terminal device on separate signal lines.

Compared to asynchronous modems, VDSL modems provide more reliable and faster communication, but are more expensive.

Other Information on VDSL Modem

1. Communication Method of VDSL Modem

A modem is a device that has the ability to convert between analog signals used in telephone lines and digital signals used in personal computers. Traditionally, dial-up connections using telephone lines were the standard way to connect to the internet, and modems that convert between analog and digital signals were indispensable.

When digital signals are transmitted over telephone lines that carry voice, the digital signals that are processed by the computer cannot be sent directly. A modem is used to convert the digital signal once into an analog signal.

In modulation, a digital signal is put on an analog signal by changing the amplitude and phase of the signal based on a reference signal called a carrier (carrier wave).

2. Start-Stop Synchronous Communication

Asynchronous communication is a communication method in which data transmission start bit (start bit) and data transmission end bit (end bit) are added at the beginning and end of data transmission, respectively, each time one character of information is sent in serial communication.

Although asynchronous communication is less efficient than synchronous communication, it does not require a signal line for synchronization and allows data transmission at any timing.

What Is a UV Printer?

A UV printer is a printer that uses UV ink, which is cured by irradiating it with ultraviolet light.

A UV printer cures and fixes the ink, so there is no need for ink penetration. Therefore, it is possible to print on resin materials and sebum. A UV printer also has the advantage of quick-drying compared to inkjet printers.

However, a disadvantage of UV printers is that they are expensive and require special inks.

Uses of UV Printers

UV printers can print on a wide variety of materials from hard to flexible materials such as wood, general resins, and leather. Taking advantage of this feature, UV printers are used in the following applications:

• Smartphone cases
• Key holders and book covers
• Nameplates and signboards for switches
• Printing on curved surfaces such as balls

Principle of UV Printers

UV printers apply the principle of curing UV-curable resin: irradiating UV ink with UV light initiates radical polymerization, which instantly cures the ink.

While inkjet printers fix the ink by drying it after it has penetrated the ink, UV printers can be used for all kinds of materials because there is no need for the ink to penetrate. However, UV printers generate a peculiar odor when curing UV ink, so the use of a deodorizing device is recommended.

Other Information on UV Printers

1. History of UV Printers and the Market

Since 2000, UV printers have been researched and developed by various companies as the next-generation technology following inkjet printers. As a result, many UV printers have been introduced.

In the early stage of development, UV printers used metal-halide lamps to irradiate UV light, which had disadvantages such as high power consumption and short lifespan, etc. Around 2008, products using LED lamps as UV light sources appeared on the market, and their performance has dramatically improved.

The UV printers market is expected to continue to grow in the future due to the advantages of faster printing processes, diversified printing media, and environmental compatibility. In recent years, research and development of three-dimensional printing technology has also been active. Compact UV printers capable of printing on small three-dimensional media are also available.

2. Challenges of UV Printers

Comparing UV printers with inkjet printers, the following issues need to be resolved to expand the market for UV printers.

Price
Compared to water-based and solvent-based inks, UV inks are expensive, and UV-LED inks are even more expensive. UV printers are also expensive, making the introduction of UV-LED printers a financial hurdle.

Glossiness
Compared to water-based and solvent-based inks, UV printers give a matte impression without gloss. However, gloss can be expressed by printing with transparent clear ink over the original printing. The degree of gloss can be changed by changing the curing timing of the clear ink.

3. Materials That UV Printers Are Not Good At

UV printers have some conditions that make printing difficult.

Water-repellent materials
Since the ink is liquid before curing, highly water-repellent materials will repel ink when the ink is applied. Printing is difficult due to very low adhesion to the material.

Materials with high oil content or additives
The presence of oil on the material surface reduces ink adhesion. Especially with resins, plasticizers, and additives inhibit ink adhesion, so care must be taken. In most cases, de-greasing with alcohol will improve the situation.

Highly smooth materials
It is difficult to print on extremely smooth materials. The more minute irregularities there are, the more adhesion the ink will have. For this reason, unevenness may be intentionally created by sandpaper or other means.

In addition, UV printers may cause cracks in the printed area due to the nature of the ink curing process. This is especially likely to occur when printing on flexible materials, and the print may fall apart if the material is deformed.

What Is a USB Microscope?

A USB Microscope is an innovative digital device that sets itself apart from traditional optical microscopes.

As the name implies, this microscope can be connected directly to a computer or mobile device via a USB interface, and combines high-resolution digital imaging with comfortable operation. The USB Microscope transforms observation, which in conventional microscopes requires physical visual inspection or the attachment of an external camera. It is now possible to instantly acquire images as digital image data.

For technicians and researchers in particular, the ability to easily share and store high-resolution images of samples in real time is an extremely significant advantage. This compact yet high-performance device is expected to be used in a wide range of settings, including research facilities, educational institutions, and industry.

Uses of the USB Microscope

1. Quality Control and Inspection in Industry

USB Microscope is relied upon to detect minute defects in precision components and circuit boards. High-resolution digital imaging can be utilized to quickly identify flaws and defects on the production line.

2. Biological and Medical Research

USB Microscope is very useful in situations where real-time, high-resolution image acquisition of cells and microorganisms is required. Detailed analysis and comparative studies can be easily performed based on the stored data.

3. Tool for Education and Training

In educational institutions and training centers, the USB microscope can be used to capture digital images of objects that learners wish to observe and share them on a large screen or as discussion materials.

4. Detailed Analysis of Art and Archaeology

USB Microscope can be useful in investigating the detailed structure and techniques of ancient artifacts and works of art. Since the microscopes allow nondestructive and non-contact examination of minute details, detailed analysis can be performed while preserving the condition of the object.

5. Gemstone and Ore Appraisal

The USB Microscope is the appraiser’s trusted tool when observing features and defects in gemstone and ore details. The highly accurate images are also useful for identifying genuine and fake items.

Principle of USB Microscope

The USB Microscope emerged as a device that combines traditional optical microscopy with digital technology. The main mechanisms and principles of this microscope are as follows:

1. Optical System

The first basic component is the optical system. Like an optical microscope, it contains a built-in lens for magnifying and observing an object. Most USB Microscopes can combine multiple lenses to provide precise observation according to the required magnification.

2. Digital Image Sensor

This is the most distinctive feature of this microscope. In contrast to traditional microscopes, which observe directly with the eye, USB Microscopes utilize a digital sensor to capture the magnified object as a digital image. This sensor is commonly referred to as a CMOS or CCD sensor.

3. Digital Signal Processing

The data captured by the image sensor is converted to digital signals through a built-in processor. At this stage, various image quality optimizations may be performed, such as color correction and sharpness adjustment of the image.

4. USB Interface

The converted digital signal is sent to a computer or mobile device via a USB interface. This USB connection enables high-speed data transfer and real-time high-resolution image observation.

5. Software Integration

Many products are bundled with dedicated software that works with the USB Microscope. This allows easy access to functions such as image capture, analysis, storage, and sharing.

Types of USB Microscopes

As USB Microscope technology has evolved, products with a wide variety of shapes and functions have appeared on the market. Here, we will explain the main types: “desk type” and “handheld type,” in detail.

1. Desk Type

Overview	The desk-type USB microscope is designed for use on a desk in a laboratory or office. It features a microscope body fixed to a stable pedestal or stand.
Stability	The fixed pedestal makes the microscope less susceptible to vibration and camera shake.
High Precision	Precise focus adjustment and observation at high magnification are easy.
Expandability	Various options can be attached, such as additional lighting, filters, and special lenses.
Main Applications	Research requiring precise observation and analysis, industrial quality inspection, use of educational materials at educational institutions, etc.

2. Handheld Type

Overview	The handheld USB microscope is designed for portability and immediate convenience. It can be held in the hand and brought directly up close to the object being observed, making it extremely flexible for use.
Mobility	Compact and lightweight, it can be used anywhere.
Intuitive operation	Observation can be easily performed without complicated settings or adjustments.
Main Applications	Outdoor fieldwork, field surveys, experiments and observations in educational settings, hobby and educational use for general consumers.

In selecting these types, it is important to choose the appropriate type according to the scene of use and your needs. Both types have the basic functions of a USB Microscope, and both types will provide the maximum effect depending on how they are used and for what purpose they are used.

 

What Is a USB Dongle?

A USB dongle is a small device that is inserted into a USB port.

USB dongles are often used as license activation keys to prevent unauthorized copying of software; by connecting the USB dongle to a computer via a USB port, licensed software can be used. They are small, portable, and extremely easy to operate.

In the past, parallel and serial ports on PCs were used. However, USB dongles have become the mainstream due to their convenience. In recent years, network authentication has become the mainstream.

Uses of USB Dongles

USB dongles are mainly used for software sold for a fee to maintain security and prevent unauthorized copying.

USB dongles are used to limit the number of licenses and prevent unauthorized use of software.

In recent years, USB dongles have also become popular for digital media players such as Chromecast and Fire TV Stick, and external Wi-Fi ports for USB dongles are also available and can be connected to a PC.

Principle of USB Dongles

USB dongles are devices that have a license authentication function by rewriting part of the program inside.

A portion of the program is compiled and stored in the USB dongles so that it can be executed within the USB dongles.
The program itself rewrites the program to call the program stored in the USB dongles.

This is the principle of preventing unauthorized use of the USB dongles. This ensures that only the owner of the USB dongles can use the software.

Previously, if a program was completely copied, it could be duplicated in large quantities. However, with the advent of USB dongles, these duplications can now be prevented.

In addition, data is stored by applying a voltage to the elements inside the USB dongles. It must be handled with care, and data may be damaged if it is mishandled.

Types of USB Dongles

USB dongles are sold in a wide variety of products, depending on their intended use.

1. Interface Change Dongle

USB dongles are dongles that convert another interface to USB, such as USB dongles that enable a SIM card to be installed in a PC or a dongle that enables Wi-Fi to be used.

Some dongles convert USB dongles to DVI or HDMI format. Some products are used for in-vehicle applications and add Wi-Fi and Bluetooth functions to car navigation systems. Some dongles can transfer the screen from a smartphone to a car navigation system.

2. Protected Dongle

A protected dongle is a dongle that is attached to a PC to ensure security and has the function of checking for license violations. Due to its lack of convenience and the sophistication of other license authentication methods, the use of this type of dongle has been decreasing in recent years.

Other Information on USB Dongles

Two-Factor Authentication With USB Dongles

As security measures have become more sophisticated in recent years, USB dongles are increasingly being used as a component of two-factor authentication. In addition to password authentication, USB dongles are used to control access only from the PC to which the dongle is connected.

Generally, two-factor authentication uses a physical device such as a smartphone, but USB dongles are sometimes used as an inexpensive way to implement two-factor authentication.

Two-factor authentication using USB dongles is effective in preventing information leaks because it allows strict restrictions on who can use the device and for what purpose. It is also an effective means of authorizing the use of shared PCs or dedicated PCs for specific purposes.

What Is a USB Oscilloscope?

USB Oscilloscope is a measuring instrument that is connected to a PC via a USB interface to observe and analyze voltage waveforms.

The advantage of USB Oscilloscope is that it is smaller and less expensive than desktop oscilloscopes.

In addition, with the use of dedicated software, advanced signal processing such as frequency analysis and digital filter processing can be performed on the PC in addition to waveform observation. They are used for maintenance and inspection at factory sites and for debugging at development sites.

Uses of USB Oscilloscope

USB Oscilloscope is used to observe signals. The main applications include the following:

1. Debugging and Troubleshooting

USB Oscilloscope can be an extremely valuable tool for debugging and troubleshooting during the design and development of electronic devices. A visual representation of signals is essential when checking whether a particular signal is operating correctly or diagnosing problems in communication between devices.

2. Experiments and Practical Training in Educational Settings

In educational settings, USB Oscilloscope can help students and pupils to directly observe and understand the behavior of electronic signals. During experiments and practical training, students can relate theory to real-world observations, enhancing learning.

3. Checking Signal Quality

For electronic equipment to operate properly, signal quality must be consistent, and USB Oscilloscope enables visual confirmation of signal quality and integrity. Early detection of problems such as timing deviations, noise, and jitter is especially important in high-speed digital systems.

4. Factory Maintenance and Inspection

USB Oscilloscope is also useful for maintenance and inspection of factory equipment and systems. It monitors equipment performance and immediately warns of any abnormalities to prevent major problems before they occur.

Also, during periodic inspections, equipment performance can be evaluated and maintenance can be performed when necessary. This ensures long-term operational efficiency and reliability.

Principle of USB Oscilloscope

On the main unit side of the USB Oscilloscope, the waveform of the object under test is captured and this is converted to digital data. The role is then to transmit the data to the PC main unit via the USB terminal. Thus, the USB Oscilloscope is connected via the USB terminal of the PC.

Other Information on USB Oscilloscope

Notes on USB Oscilloscope

1. Common GND
The first point is that the USB Oscilloscope and the PC’s USB port share a common GND: If a high voltage (tens of volts or more) is inadvertently applied to the USB Oscilloscope’s GND pin, this voltage may enter the PC via the GND of the PC’s USB port.

This often destroys the PC’s USB terminal and leads to PC board failure. Therefore, inadvertent application of high voltages must be avoided.

2. Withstand voltage of USB terminals
Second, the withstand voltage of the PC’s USB terminal is not very high. Therefore, if tens of voltages are inadvertently applied to not only the GND terminal of the USB terminal but also to other terminals, the USB port of the PC or the internal circuit board may break down.

3. Operability
Third, since all settings are made using the PC keyboard, it is difficult to become accustomed to its operation. Since each keyboard is often assigned a function that is not directly related to it, it is not something that can be easily learned.

In contrast, stand-alone oscilloscopes have dedicated operation buttons, which are relatively easy to operate once you learn how to operate them.

What Is a USB Analyzer?

A USB Analyzer is a device inserted between a host and peripheral devices communicating on the USB bus to capture data packets flowing on the bus and analyze the bus according to the USB protocol.

Before the USB bus was standardized, the interface between a PC and peripheral devices differed from device to device, requiring separate keyboards, mice, printers, etc., which was very complicated and expensive. This was because it was necessary to prepare circuits and driver software to drive the bus according to each interface standard.

With the release of the USB bus protocol, peripheral devices need only support the USB bus protocol as an interface.

Uses for USB Analyzers

USB is now used in PCs, tablets, smartphones, cell phones, digital cameras, printers, PC peripherals, and more recently, cars. Some devices have several USB ports.

The USB terminals on each device are available in several shapes due to the size of the device and its limitations.

1. Type-A

The Type-A connector has a rectangular insertion opening when viewed from the outside. This type is a standard connector and is usually used for PCs. 

2. Type-C

Type-C can be used without concern for the direction in which it is plugged in and is compatible with the USB 3.1 standard, which supports high-speed transfers. Recently, as notebook PCs and smartphones have become smaller, this type of connector has also become lighter and smaller.

3. Type-B, MicroUSB

Type-B is used for relatively large devices such as printers. In addition, there are MicroUSB used for smartphones and MiniUSB used for digital cameras.

USB Analyzer is a device for analyzing data transmission on the USB bus for devices with the above USB terminals.

Principle of USB Analyzer

The USB bus allows up to 5 repeaters (hubs) to be connected to one host, and up to 127 peripheral devices can be connected.

The USB Analyzer analyzes the bus according to the protocols defined for the USB bus described above. In USB, communication between the host and peripheral devices is based on packets, the smallest unit of which is a chunk of bit strings.

The communication of a data string consisting of multiple packets is called a transaction. This is the basis of data communication, and there are four transfer modes of communication over this physical communication: control transfer, interrupt transfer, bulk transfer, and isochronous transfer.

Types of USB Analyzers

USB Analyzers come in a wide variety of sizes and functions. In addition to the common stationary type that is always connected to a PC, the following two types are typical types:

1. PC-Less Type

This type allows measurement results to be checked without a PC. Some models are equipped with a display monitor for visual confirmation, a simple printout function to print out the results, and an SD card or other storage device to transfer data to a PC at a later time.

2. Compact Type

It is lightweight and ultra-compact enough to fit in a breast pocket. It is portable and USB bus-powered, so no AC power supply or adapter is required. Considering that it can be used in any environment, bundled software is often available for various operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and MacOSX.

Additional Information on USB Analyzers

Advantages of Communication Protocols

Consider the case where a mouse is connected as a USB peripheral device. Generally, when a mouse is connected to a PC as a new device, you are not asked to install a device driver.

This is because the USB peripheral device takes a procedure to inform the host of its identity immediately after connecting to the PC and initiating communication. Based on this information from the peripheral device, the host retrieves and configures the standard device driver it holds internally.

This eliminates the need to install a device driver each time a new USB peripheral device is connected.

What Is a UPS ?

A UPS is a device that supplies power to load equipment for a certain period of time in the event of a power failure due to a power outage. UPS stands for Uninterruptible Power Supply.

Since power grid outages generally last from a few seconds to a few minutes, the use of a UPS can often avoid equipment shutdowns.

In addition, computers and other electronic equipment are at risk of malfunctioning or losing internal data in the event of a sudden power outage; connecting a UPS provides power for a period of time that allows electronic equipment to safely shut down in the event of a power problem.

Uses for UPS

UPS devices are used when you have critical computer and communication equipment. The following are examples of UPS applications:

• Computers and office automation equipment
• Network equipment
• POS terminals and customer information terminals in stores
• Security and disaster prevention equipment
• ATM terminals and online terminals
• Broadcast equipment and electrical equipment

UPS may be used in combination with power management software. These software programs can automatically and safely shut down or start up equipment in the event of a power failure.

Principle of UPS

A UPS typically consists of the following circuits:

1. Converter

A converter is a device that converts AC power to DC power. Electricity supplied by the power company is generally AC, whereas battery power is DC. In order to interconnect the battery power with the commercial power supply, it is converted to DC once by a converter. Generally, a diode bridge or similar device is used to convert AC to DC, and then a capacitor is used to smooth the converted DC.

2. Inverter

An inverter is a device that converts DC power to AC power. Since most computers have AC power input, converters are used to convert DC power to AC power. 4 to 6 IGBTs or thyristors are generally used to convert AC power by switching. 

3. Bypass Circuit

A bypass circuit supplies commercial power directly without an inverter or converter. Since a power failure due to a malfunction of the inverter or converter would be a real disaster, the bypass circuit is used to transmit commercial power in such a case. UPS devices that normally supply power through the bypass circuit and only supply power from the battery in the event of a power failure are also available. 

4. Battery

The battery is the component used to store power for the UPS.

Batteries for UPS are of two types: MSE type and UPS-only type. The UPS-only type can be installed in a smaller space. The MSE type generally has a larger supply capacity.

Batteries lose charge capacity over time, and replacement is recommended when the capacity drops below 80%. Most products can be replaced without specialized knowledge. Many models are equipped with LED lamps to indicate battery deterioration.

Types of UPS

There are also the following types of UPS devices, depending on the power supply method:

1. Constant Inverter Power Supply System

This is a method in which power is supplied via an inverter regardless of the state of the commercial power supply. Power is supplied by the inverter under both normal and blackout conditions. Noise and sudden overvoltage from the power grid can be avoided, thus ensuring a stable power supply at all times.

2. Line Interactive System

This method supplies power from commercial power during normal operation and at the same time charges the battery through the inverter. Since power is supplied to the inverter even during normal operation, the switching time is shorter than that of the continuous commercial power supply system. 

3. Constant Commercial Power Supply System

This system supplies power directly from the commercial power source during normal operation and switches to inverter power supply from the battery during a power failure. Since the inverter is stopped during normal operation, this system saves power and has the advantages of being compact and inexpensive. On the other hand, it is not suitable for connection to equipment that requires stability because a momentary power loss of several milliseconds may occur when switching power supply.

Other Information on UPS

Service Life of UPS

UPS devices have a service life and generally need to be replaced after about 5 to 7 years. This is because the built-in electrolytic capacitors have a life span of about 8 years. In addition, periodic inspections are essential, as the service life will be shortened if the unit is used in a high-temperature environment.