Sensors & transducers
high signal integrity and accurate sensor data, even in the presence of external interference. Temperature resilience is another critical factor. Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) and Silicon Carbide (SiC) materials are commonly used in ASIC designs to enable them to withstand extreme thermal conditions. SOI technology enhances thermal stability, allowing ASICs to function reliably at temperatures up to 300 degrees Celsius, while SiC-based ASICs are capable of operating at even higher temperatures, up to 600 degrees Celsius. To further optimise performance in high- temperature environments, ASICs can incorporate thermal management solutions such as micro-channel cooling systems and heat sinks, which actively dissipate heat and prevent thermal damage. Furthermore, temperature compensation circuits can be integrated directly into the ASICs, adjusting sensor outputs to ensure accurate readings even in rapidly fluctuating or extreme thermal conditions.
In environments where power is limited, ASICs can be designed for energy efficiency, helping to extend
sensor lifespans. By incorporating low-power analogue and digital circuitry, ASICs reduce overall energy consumption. Additional features, such as sleep modes, dynamic power scaling and the ability to power down inactive components, further minimise power usage and enhance the operational lifespan of sensors. For particularly power-constrained applications, energy-harvesting technologies, such as solar, thermoelectric or vibration-based generators, can be integrated into the ASIC, enabling sensors to operate autonomously for long periods without the need for frequent battery replacements. These technologies are especially valuable in applications like deep-sea exploration, remote monitoring in space and other areas where traditional power sources are scarce or difficult to maintain
Swindon offers a full turnkey solution that supports the design and optimisation of ASICs for extreme environments. This comprehensive approach, which spans from initial concept through to manufacturing and testing, ensures that each solution is tailored to meet the specific performance and reliability of demanding applications, allowing for seamless integration into industries with unique environmental challenges. Custom ASICs are turning what was once thought to be impossible into reality. As industries continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in extreme environments, these advanced chips are advancing sensor performance. With the help of ASIC technology, industries can now operate in some of the harshest conditions on Earth and in space, turning complex challenges into opportunities for innovation.
Swindon Silicon Systems
www.swindonsilicon.com
Science fiction novelist, Arthur C. Clarke once said, “any sufficient advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic”. In industries like oil and gas, aerospace, and industrial automation, advanced sensor technology is making the impossible possible, enabling operations in environments once considered unreachable. Here Ross Turnbull, director of Business Development and Product Engineering at ASIC design and supply specialist Swindon Silicon Systems, explains how Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) enhance sensor performance in extreme environments.
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