As the younger brother of Mick, Chris Jagger the engineer used to go around saying "I can't get no Interaction", he was probably referring to the 2D static signal chain diagrams that have resided on analog.com for years.
With the new Interactive Signal Chains approach that is currently displayed on the precision technology pages, Narrow Bandwidth, Medium Bandwidth, Wide Bandwidth, and Low Power, Chris can finally get the interaction he desires along with hopefully some satisfaction too.
The interactive approach leverages the capabilities of ADI's own Noise Tool to calculate a custom signal chain based on trade-offs linked to the users’ inputs. This platform provides users with a simple way to customize and understand ADI precision solutions, with links to additional tools and documentation should you want to take the design further. The Noise Tool provides complete signal chain schematics and simulations, which are backed by high fidelity mathematical models, that are verified in the lab. ADI collateral is trusted by our users, and we want to be sure to offer them virtual solutions that achieve lab quality results.
Watch this short clip to experience how interactive signal chains have transformed our precision web pages:
Rather than push users to undertake the time intensive task of learning how to use a new tool and to build a precision signal chain from scratch to achieve the bandwidth, input range, or SNR they desire, we start with the desired outcome and work backward to one of many possible solutions. Once a satisfactory design is found the user can get the schematic view with all the component values straight from the webpage or if they do want to make some tweaks to the design, the user can click on the “View in Noise Tool” button where the same schematic will port over to the Noise Tool from which the customer can refine their design and simulate. The main goal is to reduce design time by giving the customer a solution as a starting point.
Using interactive design tools also provides customers with a more user-friendly interface. The design process becomes much more accessible. Customers can simply navigate through the web page using the slider buttons and drop-down menus to select the system requirements for their signal chain. This makes the design process much simpler and more intuitive, allowing customers to design their signal chains with greater ease and confidence.
With Industry 4.0, ADI is enabling a new age for industrial automation. The solutions we sell help automate systems and processes across buildings, factories, and industries. This is important for several reasons including improved efficiency, cost savings, quality control, and scalability. For the same reasons it’s important to start to automate as best we can some of the decisions made around signal chain design and part selection via interactive signal chains. Especially for the broad market who may not have the resources or the support that more vertical customers have.
Interactive signal chains are a powerful tool for designing electronics signal chains. They provide users with access to a user-friendly interface, accurate design recommendations, flexibility, and experimentation. As we advance and continue to add to this interactive approach, we can expect the interactive elements to become even more sophisticated and useful for anyone designing signal chains.
