Hardware Podcasts

The Spark Gap - Episode 30

The Spark Gap · 8 Apr 2015 · 57m

What this episode covers

Hosts Carl and Corey discuss methods for switching and routing power in embedded electronics, starting with the limitations of microcontroller GPIO pins and the distinction between high-side and low-side switching. They analyze the trade-offs between P-channel and N-channel MOSFETs, explaining why N-channel devices are often preferred for high-side switching when paired with gate drivers to overcome threshold voltage issues. The conversation covers the problem of body diodes in MOSFETs, the use of dual-FET configurations or solid-state relays (SSRs) to block reverse current, and the specific advantages and disadvantages of mechanical relays regarding contact resistance, capacitance, and signal integrity.

Most relevant to

makers and hobbyists

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
DigiKey
Products
Bosch relay, Reed relay
Chips
Triac

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