Saturday, August 4, 2007

Electronics and Semiconductor Patents - An Evolution Scenario

In recent years, there has been an extensive boost in technological concepts related to electronics and electrical domain. Electronic engineering is a constantly changing and widening branch of technology. Electronics and semiconductor engineering is one of the largest and fastest growing industries. This growth has entailed a wide range of patent filing, all through. Electronics and semiconductors covers a wide range of applications we use daily, such as Television, Radio, computers, telecommunication etc, which make our life easier and enjoyable. It helps us see, hear and communicate over enormous distances and accomplish tasks faster.

Electronics plays a major role in industries like oil, energy, agriculture and many other important sectors of economy. Electronics and semiconductor patents form a subclass of electrical patents. The electrical patenting class is broadly classified into many subclasses based on the area. Some subclasses include Digital Electronics, Analog Electronics, Micro Electronics, Fuzzy Electronics, Application Specific Integrated Circuit Design, Semiconductors and Semiconductor devices, etc.

Patents are further classified based on the development of their active elements involving the design and testing of electronic circuits that use the electronic properties of components such as resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, microcontrollers, microprocessors and transistors to achieve a particular functionality. For example, 326 is the generic class for patents related to electronic digital logic devices, circuitry and sub combinations thereof, wherein non-arithmetical operations are performed upon discrete electrical signals representing a value normally described by numerical digits. It further has subclass 12 for redundant logic having a flip flop and subclass 37 for a multifunctional or programmable logic having a flip flop.

Integrated circuits and processing architectures are other categories protected by patents. Different aspects of these technologies such as architecture, applications or designs are protected by employing different intellectual property laws. As an invention, hardware architecture and their applications are protected as utility patents while Integrated circuit designs are protected as design patents. Hence, both design concepts and hardware are protected by patents. In discharging its patent-related duties, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) examines patent applications and grants patents after establishing the patenting class and patentability of an invention. The claims of a patent serve as a guide in patent prosecution and infringement law suits.

There has been a steady growth in electrical, electronics and semiconductor patents being filed and granted by U.S. patent office since 1996. About 8, 16,349 electrical patents are being granted till December 31st 2004 and every year approximately 60,000 electrical patents are granted. U.S. Patent office has approximately granted 3, 70,000 semiconductor patents, 19,279 global positioning system patents, 75,109 electronics and communication patents.

Since its inception, the patent system has attempted to balance the tension between 2 competing objectives. On one hand, the law rewards technical innovation by granting exclusive rights to individuals for worthy inventions. On the other hand, it also seeks to increase the welfare of the society as a whole by providing it with the benefits of innovation. Electronics and semiconductor patents provide public with valuable information about how to use and implement new technology once it enters public domain.

One way to trace the development of electronics and semiconductor technology is to follow the development of its active elements, the switches and valves of electronics systems. A more recent trend in circuit design is to build custom integrated circuits that include as much circuitry as possible, often combining both analog and digital circuitry on a single substrate. This area is known as application specific integrated circuits (ASIC); the designers work with relatively small prefabricated circuits commonly called macro cells. In recent years there has been an increase in patent filing because in many industries and product development companies a division of innovative labor is emerging, resulting in the licensing of existing and prospective technologies. Hewlett Packard, Sanyo and Sony are some of the leading electronic companies in the world with a growing patent portfolio over the years.

Ash Tankha, http://www.ipprocurement.com work with inventors to develop their ideas into http://www.ipprocurement.com patent application for worldwide filing and patenting. Contact Ash Tankha at ash@ipprocurement.com



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Outsourcing Electronics Manufacturing To Asia

While the outsourcing industry in the United States has been a source of recent fear and controversy, America’s history of outsourcing dates back to the industrial revolution of the late 17th century. Covered wagons were covered and clipper ships sailed with outsourced products from Scotland, with raw materials originating from India. Even the ancient Chinese and Japanese empires outsourced to their conquered nations. In the United States many computer companies outsourced payroll processing during the 1970s and 1980s.

Globalization, explosive Internet growth, and development of an information society has made outsourcing an integral part of the world economy. American companies such as Intel and Sun Microsystems maintain large research and development departments outside the United States. The United States has a depleting talent pool in technical fields, while China produces the largest number of computer engineers every year. Software outsourcing is a $1.5 billion market in China with an annual growth rate of around 35%.

Although the Asian market for IT outsourcing is promising, it does suffer from a lack of English language proficiency and Chinese companies do not have established quality control procedures such as those which are commonplace in India. The problem of software piracy in China does not help it become a credible destination for software development either. While the Internet is spreading in Southern Asia, a weak infrastructure, antiquated legislations, language barriers and the cost of Internet access seem to be hampering growth in IT outsourcing opportunities.

Therefore, the future of outsourcing in Asia may not be in the expected areas of IT services; it seems to be making a move towards electronics manufacturing and design. Among a diversity of services currently being outsourced to Asia are printed circuit board manufacturing, including complete layout design and creation. Electronics manufacturing in Asia takes advantage of the inexpensive labor costs. The industry recognizes the region’s increasing proficiency in computer and electronics engineering, while avoiding many of the pitfalls which have been experienced with IT outsourcing in the region.

The IT sector has proven offshore outsourcing can succeed, however the largest opportunities in outsourcing are yet to be realized. It is evident the practice of outsourcing electronics manufacturing to Asia will be an integral element of future outsourcing trends.

Lydia Quinn writes Standard Printed Circuit Board Ltd., leaders in providing world class printed circuit board manufacturing located in Hong Kong. Visit us at http://www.standardpcb.com/

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Electronics Schools

Electronics Schools, colleges, and universities offer programs of study for earning certificates, associate, bachelor, master, and doctorate degrees in electronics.

Professionals in electronics are prepared for positions dealing with anything in electronics, which can include automotive, household, mechanical, business, and industrial electronics. College and university electronics programs will also focus on installation, repair and maintenance of electronics equipment, as well as industry safety standards.

Electronics colleges and universities confer certificates and associate, bachelor, master, and doctorate degrees in electronics. Programs in the study of electronics should include analog and digital electronics, and digital technology; computer systems for networking and data communications; computer peripherals and systems; troubleshooting; and use of testing equipment. Students will also study design of electronic circuitry in equipment and systems, as well as design of business computer operations.

Electronics university and college education allows for specialization in various areas of electronics, including design of hardware and software, information systems security, cryptography, biometrics, intrusion countermeasures, and related electronic technologies.

Positions for degreed electronics majors are varied. Graduates of programs of study in electronics will be prepared for careers as technicians, systems designers, technical support specialists, computer technicians, network technicians, and more. Acoustics, construction, engineering, installation, service technician, computer technician, telecommunications, and electronics education all are possible occupations. Electronics professions require installing, adjusting, testing, trouble-shooting, and repairing electronics.

If you are interested in learning more about Electronics Schools, please search our site for more in-depth information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com

Copyright 2006 - All rights reserved by Media Positive Communications, Inc., Managing Organization for SchoolsGalore.com

Notice: Publishers are free to use this article on an ezine or website, provided the article is reprinted in its entirety, including copyright and disclaimer, and ALL links remain intact and active.

M. Bustamante is a staff writer for Media Positive Communications, Inc. Find out more about Electronics Programs as well as Online Electronics Courses at SchoolsGalore.com; meeting your needs as your educational resource to locate schools.


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Electronics Tips - Questions to Ask Before Buying an iPod or MP3 Player

Finding just the right iPod can be a confusing task. Every few months, new technology is being used to improve iPods. You probably want to get one that's not going to be obsolete within a few months, so here are some questions to ask before buying an iPod.

Why am I Buying an iPod?

As with all electronics, you should think about how you're going to use an iPod before making a buying decision. In your personal life, you can download songs onto your iPod to listen to while walking, jogging, traveling, or doing yard work. If you're a photographer, you may use your iPod to store digital photo files. Knowing "why" you need an iPod will help you choose just the right size, color, and type of iPod.

How Many Songs do I Plan to Store on my iPod?

If you plan to store hundreds of songs on your iPod, then you should be sure that the storage space can accommodate your needs. Expect to pay more for more space. Also, consider how file size relates to the quality of the songs you download. Some iPods and MP3 players state that you can download hundreds of songs, but the quality of the sound isn't that great. This is because the sound files are compressed to make them fit the available storage space. If you can't afford a lot of storage space, it's better to sacrifice the number of songs you want than to sacrifice quality.

What Type of iPods are Available?

iPods come in many shapes, sizes, colors, and with different storage capacities. Keep in mind that you are not limited to the "iPod" brand because MP3 players serve the same purpose. There are also many types of MP3 players available that give you a variety of choices. The types of iPods available include iPods specifically designed for Mac or Windows computers, regular iPods with lots of storage space, iPod minis for storing just a few of your favorite songs, and iPods with other functions and capabilities.

What Accessories Will I Need for My iPod?

Accessories for iPods might include an iPod case or sock for protecting the device, a remote control, camera connectors, an iPod dock, in-ear headphones, power adaptors, and software to expand its uses. Determine which accessories you will need and factor them into the price of your iPod.

If you are buying an iPod or MP3 player as a gift, consider purchasing a gift card so your recipient can buy iTunes for his or her iPod.

Where Should I Shop for an iPod?

You can shop locally for iPods or MP3 players or go online to get an even greater selection. At an online shopping mall, you can get an iPod or MP3 player, along with other great electronics such as cell phones, computer supplies, Xbox, PS2, and more. There are a variety of brand name items available online, such as Nokia, Sony, Samsung, and Blackberry, so you can get a great quality PDA and other electronics.

The bottom line is that you should choose an iPod or MP3 player that best suits your needs and your lifestyle. When you do, your favorite tunes will always be close at hand.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Learn more about Buying an iPod or Majon's Electronics directory.


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Understanding Car Audio Electronic Components

A good understanding of car audio electronics helps you make better buying decisions -- As far as your car audio system is concerned. In addition, you can more easily install whichever system you settle for. It is therefore necessary that I walk you through.

In this article, I'll dwell on a few components of a car audio system -- Giving attention to the electronics behind them. I'll do my best to write in English.

Car audio electronic components

Car audio electronic components consist of many parts. They include . . .

• Diode - A diode allows current to pass in one direction. They are very useful in isolating current flow. They are often used in automotive security systems as well.

• LEDS - A LED is a special diode. LED stands for light-emitting diode. You are probably familiar with these as they are commonly used as turn on indicators for most electronic equipment too.

• Relay- A relay is an electro mechanical switch. It is most widely used for car security systems. It is also commonly used as a way of protecting your head unit from damage. Normally a relay allows a small current to control a much larger current.

A little more on relays
A relay consists of four main parts . . .

1. A coil denoted by terminals 85 and 86.

2. A common terminal denoted by terminal 30.

3. A normally closed terminal that is labeled terminal 87

4. And a normally open terminal labeled terminal 87.

Depending on whether your controlling voltage is negative or positive, the terminal 85 or 86 will be grounded or connected to +12 volts. If you have a positive controlling voltage like a head unit remote turn-on lead, then you will need to ground either terminal 85 or 86.

It does not matter which one you choose, the other terminal will be connected to the remote turn-on lead of your head unit. The common lead that is terminal 30 would be connected to +12 volts because that is what we want to apply to terminal 87 when the relay coil is energized.

Visit car-audio-products-and-accessories.com to read more car audio articles. Check CarAudioPlus for your car audio products and components.

Chimezirim Odimba writes for CarAudioPlus.


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Top 10 Electronic Gadgets Review

Over the last couple of years there has been large increase in the production of gizmos and electronic gadgets due to technological advances in the electronics industry. I would like to share with you my top 10 list of what I believe are the most influential and interesting electronic gadgets available in the Consumer Electronics market today. The following descriptions are unfortunately not accompanied by pictures but the descriptions should be enough to give you a general understanding as well as to wet your appetite.

1. Widescreen MP4 Player Watch

Our first gadget is the MP4/Mp3 player watch which has recently been introduced to the market. So if you like your music then this is the product you will like. This Mp4 wrist watch has 1GB of memory and features a 1.8 Inch TFT screen, MTV format movie player, built-in FM radio, built-in speaker, and many other added features. There are many different types of Mp4/mp3 watches on the market, but have only recently been introduced. They are definitely worth checking out.

2. MP3 Player Pens - Full Metal Body, High Quality Voice Record

Another gadget to enter the market recently is the MP3 player pen. This MP3 Pen Player supports MP3, WMA and WAV formats. It boasts a Super high quality Voice recording function ,MP3 and WAV playback as well as supporting USB 2.0. This wholesale product is excellent design and already popular with many gadget junkies because of consistent high quality.

3. Sunglasses with MP3 Player and Bluetooth Headset

This has to be one of the most influential technological breakthroughs for any person who loves their mp3/mp4 players. These sunglasses have a Removable clip that converts any sunglasses or glasses into a blue tooth headset and MP3 player. Nice innovative wholesale electronics gadget. The MP3 Player glasses attachment supports MP3, WMA, and WAV. It has a fast connection via USB 2.0 to PC, allowing for quick uploads. Simply Plug and play, drag and drop music files from your computer to your headset music player.

4. MP4 Player with SD/MMC card reader 2.5 inch Screen

This is still my personal favourite . The MP4 player which has a 2.5” LCD TFT monitor and has both AV IN/OUT ( NTSC and PAL) , so you can record TV programs or movies and upload them onto your MP4 player. The resolution is 320*240 @30f/s. This wholesale product is already hugely popular due to its flexibility in terms of being an MP3 player and Movie viewer. It also has built in microphone and additional data keeping functions.

5.Mini Lighter Camera Spy Gadget

Another James bond type gadget. A Cigarette lighter style disguised mini digital camera: hi-tech spy gadget. This discreet smart metal lighter is actually a digital camera capable of holding more than 100 pictures. Just flip your lighter, turn it on, take a picture and close the case. I suppose this is only really for true spies, but certainly worth mentioning.

6.Night Vision goggle DNV-GX2

I have always been a fan of Night Vision goggles and personally own one myself. This is a DNV-GX2, developed with the European partner NOCTRON in Luxembourg and is the most advanced digital night vision device on the market. At 0.001 lux the detection range is about 200m. With high performance components from well known manufacturers, this wholesale product will exceed your expectations. Specs include both NTSC/PAL AUTO, 36 inch display size, 26 degrees view angle, Pixels: 320H*240V*RGB(230K).

7.Flexiglow Multi Tool Flash Drive

This is like a swiss army knife with all the handy tools you need for any emergency fix-it jobs but with a USB flash drive incorporated into it. The Flash Drive Module is easily removable and the retractable ball point pen , means you will never be caught without. In addition there is a super bright LED Flashlight, cleverly concealed in the housing. It also has a Star Screwdriver with a bottle top opener, nail filer, ball point pen as mentioned and the LED light.

8.FotoVivo 7 inch Digital Photo Frame

This is a digital photo frame which you can use to upload photos onto. With the simplicity of technology solutions, Foto Vivo offers the possibility of browsing photos with button-less feature to ease the navigation. Moreover, its considerate design facilitates the end users. ts 128MB storage capability can save more than 200 high quality photos. Its fast photo loading time and the Plug-and-Play feature enable users to enjoy browsing without hassle.

9.Oregon Heart Rate Monitor Watches - Vibra Fit Pro Trainer SE232

A Heart Rate Monitor with the new innovative, vibrating heart zone alarm feature. This is particularly useful when exercising to music with an MP3 player .When you reach the pre programmed heart rate zones the watch gently vibrates to prompt you. The CARDIO VIBRO TRAINER also allows the user to enter age, sex, weight, height and activity level. The "SMART Trainer" programme will then provide realistic Heart Rate limits for the user, with a 5 min warm up and 30 min exercise. Any parameter can be changed to suit the user fitness level or ability.

10.Shaking Torch - Everlight Robust

This product was rated the top gadget of 2004. A very effective and essential gadget for every household for both emergency and general use. All you do is give it a shake for 15-30 seconds, and it will provide up to 5 minutes of continuous bright light! It uses the Faraday Principle of Electromagnetic Energy that guarantees replacement parts will never be needed! It never needs batteries, has a super bright LED light, is waterproof and floats in water.

Steve Ahlfeld – Owner of BestDealsMarket Wholesale Electronics

BestDealsMarket Wholesale ELectronics!



The Advancing World of Electronics

The world of electronics has been a great help in globalization and has contributed a great deal in improving the life of an individual. The advancement of electronics has made various tasks to be carried out more easily and comfortably. One of its examples can be seen in the form of Internet and computers that connect millions of people from all over the world. Moreover in the advent of satellite channels, people have become more aware of the happenings in other countries. All these have been among various advantages of the electronic world in the life of a man. In other words, electronic world has marked a turning point in people’s life. However, the electronic development has not been stagnated here. Only there is constant development taking place in the world of technology with the passage of time.

The electronic development refers to engineering a simple design of a machine. But this is carried out by keeping in mind the requirements of a consumer. There are various points that should be taken care of while making a new product. This includes that it should be eco-friendly, minimal cost, comply all requirements of a user, PCB designs and many other issues.

There are many latest techniques in the world of electronics that have been invented. VCRs have been replaced by DVD player and DVD recorder. Moreover, there is also a trend of electronic voting. This involves usage of an electronic voter machine to cast a vote. These recorded votes are further counted by electric means only. This saves both time and effort required to be put in by an individual. It even speeds up the whole process of voting. This is especially beneficial to handicapped people who can’t walk up to a voting booth. This electronic voting technology makes use of specialized voting kiosks, optical scan voting systems and punch cards for the purpose.

Another development in the field of electronics is the use of digital signals instead of analog signals for the transfer of data and also various other purposes. Mobile phones, computers, cameras and many other products use the same technique. This technique makes available more storage space, and even lessens the wear and tear in the stored information.

Digital cameras ensure a better picture quality, more storage and even editing and transferring of the photographs on a computer. Moreover, the entertainment world has electronics as its foundation. Whether it is a radio, television, broadcasting of movies, news on channels, digital cameras, all have been a contribution of the electronics world.

Copyrights protected article written by Andrew Stratton for Surveillance Technology. More articles and information about the electronic and electronic products can be viewed easily altogether at this location http://www.surveillancetechnology.com/electronic-know-how.htm. Please be free to explore the website for more information on every surveillance products and their features.

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