Microchip is...

Microchip Is... Secure FPGAs

Interview With Tim Morin, Technical Fellow at Microchip Technology Inc. 
Tim Morin, technical fellow at Microchip, discusses the growing importance of security in FPGA design. 
Tim shares how the rise of the Internet and the Internet of Things (IoT) has made security a universal concern, extending far beyond defense applications. He emphasizes the need for a layered security strategy to protect systems against an increasingly sophisticated threat landscape. 
Tim highlights the challenges posed by emerging technologies such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence, explaining how Microchip is addressing these risks through collaboration and the development of post-quantum cryptography solutions. The conversation also explores how Microchip’s FPGA architectures safeguard critical designs, featuring over 30 anti-tamper flags to detect and respond to potential threats and ensure the authenticity and integrity of sensitive components. 
Throughout the discussion, Tim provides practical guidance for engineers looking to strengthen their FPGA security, emphasizing the importance of integrating protection from the very start of the design process. 
Learn more about Microchip’s secure FPGA solutions here: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/products/fpgas-and-plds 
 
Time Stamps 
[00:51] – Tim Morin's Background and Role at Microchip 
[01:25] – The Evolution of FPGA Security Concerns 
[14:05] – Defense Industry's Comprehensive Security Requirements 
[16:08] – Preparing for Future Threats: AI and Quantum Computing 
[17:12] – Key Principles for Building Secure FPGA Designs 
[18:22] – Engineering Advice for Secure FPGA Designs
 
Follow Tim 
Tim Morin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-morin-2695493/  
 
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions about Microchip’s smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions and connect with us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes. We'd also appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.  

Microchip Is... RF Amplifiers

Interview With Baljit Chandhoke, Product Marketing Manager at Microchip Technology Inc. 
Baljit Chandhoke, product marketing manager at Microchip, joins the Microchip Is… podcast to discuss the vital role of RF amplifiers across a wide range of applications - from satellite communications and 5G to aerospace and defense systems. 
Baljit explores advancements in phased array beamforming, the impact of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks, and the shift toward GaN on silicon carbide technology for higher power and efficiency. He also explains how RF amplifiers fit into the broader signal chain, emphasizing key design considerations like linearity, efficiency, and noise performance. 
He also discusses the evolution from traditional space programs to “New Space,” where commercial spaceflight is reshaping requirements for radiation-tolerant components. Throughout the episode, Baljit emphasizes Microchip’s comprehensive RF signal chain solutions and the cross-team collaboration that enables innovation across markets. 
Learn more about Microchip’s RF and microwave solutions here: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/products/rf-and-microwave 
 
Time Stamps 
[00:30] – Meet Baljit Chandhoke: RF Product Manager 
[03:13] – Understanding the RF Signal Chain 
[09:07] – Advancements in RF Power Amplifier Technology 
[12:50] – Low Noise Amplifiers and Their Importance 
[15:19] – RF Solutions for Radar and Electronic Warfare 
[19:00] – Understanding New Space vs. Traditional Space 
[24:20] – Engineering Advice for RF Design 
 
Follow Baljit 
Baljit Chandhoke on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/baljit-chandhoke/  
 
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions about Microchip’s smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions and connect with us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes. We'd also appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.  

Microchip Is... IGBT

Interview With Amit Gole, Product Marketing Manager at Microchip Technology Inc. 
Amit Gole, product marketing manager for Power Modules at Microchip, joins the podcast to discuss the role of Insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) power modules - essential components in contemporary power electronics.  
With over 25 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, Amit shares his insights on the relevance and applications of IGBTs in today's market, despite the growing popularity of wide bandgap devices like silicon carbide and gallium nitride.  
Amit shares how the IGBT power module market remains strong, with expectations for continued growth, and explains that while silicon carbide offers advantages in high-frequency applications, IGBTs still play a crucial role in power electronics due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of use.  
Amit delves into the technical aspects of IGBTs, highlighting their operational characteristics and the specific applications where they excel, such as industrial power drives, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and motor drives. He discusses the frequency thresholds that determine when to use IGBTs versus silicon carbide, noting that IGBTs are particularly effective below 20 kHz.  
Find out more about Microchip’s IGBT solutions here: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/products/power-management/power-modules/igbt 
 
Time Stamps 
[00:30] – Meet Amit Gole: Product Marketing Manager 
[01:00] – Understanding IGBTs and Market Demand 
[02:00] – IGBTs vs. Wide Bandgap Devices 
[07:00] – Voltage Capabilities of IGBTs vs. Silicon Carbide 
[08:30] – Applications for IGBTs 
[16:00] – Current and Voltage Capabilities of IGBT Modules 
[19:00] – Summary of Microchip's IGBT Offerings 
[20:00] – Engineering Advice for Listeners
 
Follow Amit 
Amit Gole on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amitgole/  
 
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions about Microchip’s smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions and connect with us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes. We'd also appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.  

Microchip Is... USB

Interview With David Sroka, USB Product and Strategic Manager at Microchip Technology Inc. 
Dave Sroka, USB Product and Strategic Manager at Microchip Technology, draws on over 25 years of USB experience to discuss the company’s extensive USB portfolio and its impact across industries. 
He highlights Microchip’s long-standing role in the USB market, emphasizing interoperability, compliance, and the importance of in-house labs that replicate third-party testing to ensure seamless device performance. Dave notes that challenges such as board layout, connector quality, and   integrity often affect reliability, and explains how Microchip supports customers with knowledge resources and design evaluations. 
The discussion explores USB applications beyond PCs, from point-of-sale systems to automotive integration with Apple CarPlay, where host/device flexibility adds complexity. Dave explains that despite the adoption of USB 3.0 in PCs, USB 2.0 remains essential in embedded applications, driving demand for Microchip’s robust hub solutions. 
He also introduces innovations such as Smart Hub technology for in-field upgrades, enhanced security, and FlexConnect for host switching, as well as advancements in power delivery that improve charging efficiency and thermal safety. 
Throughout the conversation, Dave underscores Microchip’s focus on innovation and collaboration, encouraging engineers to leverage the company’s wide range of resources to accelerate development. 
Find out more about Microchip’s USB solutions here: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/products/interface-and-connectivity/usb  
 
Time Stamps 
[00:27] - Meet Dave Sroka: USB Product Manager 
[00:52] - Overview of Microchip's USB Product Portfolio 
[04:10] - Core Applications of Microchip USB Products 
[06:56] - Microchip's Longevity Policy for USB Products 
[07:41] - USB in Automotive Applications 
[10:19] - Smart Hub Technology Explained 
[12:19] - FlexConnect: Host Switching Capabilities 
[14:52] - Power Delivery Features in Microchip USB 
[17:04] - Resources for Engineers Using Microchip USB Products
 
Follow David Sroka 
David Sroka on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davesroka/  
 
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions about Microchip’s smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions and connect with us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes. We'd also appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.  

Microchip Is... Trade-Offs Between Traditional and New Space

Interview With David Bail, Director of Oscillator Products at Microchip Technology Inc. 
David Bail, Director of Oscillator Products at Microchip Technology, discusses the role of microchip timing in space and the significant changes occurring in the space market. 
David explains how the space industry has evolved over the past couple of decades, shifting from a focus on high reliability and government contracts to a more commercialized approach driven by the rapid deployment of mega constellations. This transformation has led engineers to prioritize cost and lead time, often opting for commercial off-the-shelf parts while still maintaining a calculated approach to reliability. 
The conversation covers various applications of satellites today, including communications, global asset tracking, earth observation, and even space tourism. David emphasizes the importance of balancing risk and reliability, especially as new space ventures often involve thousands of satellites, which necessitates a different mindset compared to traditional space missions. 
David also discusses the technical challenges of creating solutions that can withstand the harsh conditions of space, including radiation tolerance and mechanical stress during launch. He highlights Microchip's long history in the space sector and how their extensive product portfolio, which includes both quartz and atomic timing solutions, positions them as a trusted partner for customers. 
Find out more about Microchip’s solutions for space application design here: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/solutions/aerospace-and-defense/space 
 
Time Stamps 
[00:27] – Meet David Bail: Director of Oscillator Products 
[02:54] – Driving Forces Behind New Space Applications 
[05:14] – Engineers' Mindset Shift in New Space 
[08:16] – What is Sacrificed in New Space Applications? 
[12:43] – Microchip's Adaptation to New Space Market 
[14:53] – Overview of Microchip's Product Families 
[27:16] – Microchip's Contributions to Space Missions 
[29:29] – Key Takeaways on Microchip and Timing in Space 
 
Follow David Bail 
David Bail on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bail-b36a4111/  
 
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions about Microchip’s smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions and connect with us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes. We'd also appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.  

Microchip Is... Power Packaging

Interview With Nitesh Satheesh, Senior Technical Staff Engineer at Microchip Technology Inc. 
Nitesh Satheesh, Senior Technical Staff Engineer at Microchip Technology, explores the role of power packaging in shaping the design and performance of power modules used across industries, including automotive, aerospace, and industrial systems. 
Nitesh highlights key aspects of power packaging, including thermal management, parasitic effects, integration, and compliance with industry standards, and stresses how these issues are often underestimated until they become design challenges. 
The discussion highlights the risks engineers face when power packaging is overlooked early in development, leading to inefficiencies and thermal problems. Nitesh notes that power modules streamline the process for customers, enabling them to focus on their core expertise while Microchip addresses the complexities of packaging. 
He also discusses the importance of module construction and the need to balance design innovation with manufacturability to ensure practical, reliable solutions. Finally, Nitesh advises engineers to design for realistic, intermediate use cases rather than extreme worst-case scenarios, which often result in over-engineering and unnecessary cost. 
Find out more about Microchip’s power packaging solutions here: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/products/power-management/silicon-carbide-sic-devices-and-power-modules  
 
Time Stamps 
[00:27] - Guest Introduction: Nitesh Satheesh 
[01:56] - Importance of Power Packaging 
[06:18] - Customer Needs and Power Modules 
[08:50] - Benefits of Using Bare Die in Modules 
[10:19] - Trade-offs in Module Design 
[13:22] - Design vs. Manufacturing: The Secret Sauce 
[14:18] - Future Trends in Power Module Design 
[16:51] - Key Takeaway for Engineers 
[17:48] - Staying Updated with Microchip
 
Follow Nitesh Satheesh 
Nitesh Satheesh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nitesh-satheesh/  
 
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions about Microchip’s smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions and connect with us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes. We'd also appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.  

Microchip Is... Rugged Outdoor Touchscreens

Interview With Vivek Tyagi, Product Marketing Manager for Industrial Touch ICS at Microchip Technology Inc.
Vivek Tyagi, Product Marketing Manager for Industrial Touch ICS at Microchip joins the podcast to discuss the intricacies of rugged outdoor touchscreens.
Vivek provides insights into the challenges faced when designing touchscreens for outdoor environments, which must endure extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, intense sunlight, and temperature fluctuations. Rugged touchscreens are increasingly essential for various applications, including electric vehicle chargers, parking meters, ATMs, and even motorbikes, where reliability and user experience are vital.
With the growing demand for outdoor touchscreens and the importance of selecting the right touch controller, Microchip’s MaxTouch brand, particularly the TD and UD generations, are engineered to meet the rigorous demands of outdoor use. These controllers are designed to handle thicker glass and multi-finger inputs, even in the presence of moisture, ensuring a seamless user experience.
Vivek discusses the significance of collaborating with experienced display partners to create the optimal stack for touchscreens and maximize the performance of touch controllers to deliver high-quality solutions to users.
Find out more about Microchip’s touchscreen and touchpad controllers for challenging environments here: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/products/touch-and-gesture/maxtouch-touchscreen-controllers  
 
Time Stamps
[00:30] – Meet Vivek Tyagi: Product Marketing Manager
[04:18] – Growing Demand for Outdoor Touchscreens
[07:36] – Impact of Environmental Factors on Touch Controllers
[15:12] – Microchip Touch Controllers for Outdoor Applications
[19:34] – Key Takeaways for Building Rugged Outdoor Touchscreens
[20:31] – Final Engineering Advice
 
Follow Vivek
Vivek Tyagi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivek-tyagi-blr/?originalSubdomain=in
 
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions about Microchip’s smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions and connect with us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes. We'd also appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.
Want more? Look out for more upcoming podcasts from Microchip:
Beyond the Microchip
So much of our daily lives are controlled or influenced by electronics. We rely on GPS to direct us, we hit "brew" on our coffee machines for our mornin' cup of Joe, we wave our hands over a sensor to get running water from a faucet, and press a button to open our garage doors. 
But do we really know what's going on inside? Are we aware of the universe of technology and calculations going on right under our nose?
Beyond the Microchip takes you inside the world of Embedded Control technologies to understand how the chips and sensors we can't see impact our lives in dramatic ways. They remind us why we have and embrace technology, to enhance the human experience. 
Join us each episode as we look at an aspect of our daily lives that shapes what it means to be human and how we can empower the innovation that enhances that experience through Microchip Technology. Subscribe to Beyond the Microchip wherever you get your podcasts.

Microchip Is... Battery Management Systems

Interview With Iman Chalabi, Senior Product Marketing Engineer at Microchip Technology Inc.
Iman Chalabi, Senior Product Marketing Engineer at Microchip Technology, joins the podcast to discuss the role of battery management systems (BMS) in modern battery-powered devices.
Iman explains how a BMS monitors critical parameters, such as voltage, current, and temperature, ensuring the safety and reliability of various applications, from consumer electronics like smartphones and wearables to larger systems such as electric vehicles and energy storage solutions.
The conversation explores two primary functions of a BMS: monitoring and balancing. Monitoring involves the continuous measurement of battery parameters to ensure they operate within safe limits, while balancing equalizes the charge across all cells in a battery pack to prevent performance issues and safety risks.
As they explore current trends in the battery market, Iman notes the increasing demand for scalable solutions, particularly for high-voltage applications, and the integration of intelligent algorithms to enhance battery lifecycle management. He emphasizes Microchip's commitment to providing comprehensive solutions, including reference designs and collaborations with software companies to improve BMS functionality.
Find out more about Microchip’s battery management systems:
 
Time Stamps
[00:27] – Guest Introduction: Iman Chalabi
[01:25] – What is a Battery Management System (BMS)?
[04:47] – Monitoring and Balancing in BMS
[10:08] – Trends in the Battery Market
[14:47] – Making BMS Design Easier with Microchip
[17:09] – Microchip Products in Battery Management Systems
[20:57] – Connectivity Trends in BMS
[26:29] – Engineering Advice for BMS Development
 
Follow Iman Chalabi
Iman Chalabi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iman-chalabi-2b851a62
 
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions about Microchip’s smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions and connect with us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes. We'd also appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.
 
Want more? Look out for more upcoming podcasts from Microchip:
Beyond the Microchip
So much of our daily lives are controlled or influenced by electronics. We rely on GPS to direct us, we hit "brew" on our coffee machines for our mornin' cup of Joe, we wave our hands over a sensor to get running water from a faucet, and press a button to open our garage doors. 
But do we really know what's going on inside? Are we aware of the universe of technology and calculations going on right under our nose?
Beyond the Microchip takes you inside the world of Embedded Control technologies to understand how the chips and sensors we can't see impact our lives in dramatic ways. They remind us why we have and embrace technology, to enhance the human experience. 
Join us each episode as we look at an aspect of our daily lives that shapes what it means to be human and how we can empower the innovation that enhances that experience through Microchip Technology. Subscribe to Beyond the Microchip wherever you get your podcasts.

Microchip is… Reliable GNSS

Interview With Evan Alexander, Senior Product Marketing Engineer at Microchip Technology Inc.
In this episode of the Microchip Is... podcast, we speak with Evan Alexander, Senior Product Marketing Engineer at Microchip, about the critical role of timing in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and how Microchip is addressing the challenges of reliable GNSS technology.
Evan highlights the importance of precise timing in satellite navigation systems, emphasizing how even minor timing errors can lead to significant inaccuracies in positioning. This precision is not only vital for navigation but also for various critical industries, including telecommunications, power grids, and financial markets, all of which rely on GNSS for accurate timing.
The episode explores Microchip's advancements in atomic clock technology, including the chip scale atomic clock (CSAC) and the rubidium-based miniature atomic clock (MAC). Evan discusses how Microchip's expertise in these components allows for the development of high-quality disciplined oscillators that are easy to integrate and customizable for various applications.
In summary, this episode sheds light on the complexities of GNSS technology and the innovative solutions Microchip offers to enhance reliability in timing systems. If you're involved in designing systems that rely on GNSS, find out more about Microchips solutions here: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/products/clock-and-timing/systems/gnss-timing-instruments
 
Time Stamps
[00:49] – Understanding the Role of Timing in GNSS
[04:28] – Microchip's Involvement in GNSS Infrastructure
[07:24] – Understanding Jamming and Spoofing Phenomena
[12:13] – Microchip's Expertise in Atomic Clocks
[16:02] – Support and Customization from Microchip
[16:26] – Key Takeaways on Microchip and GNSS
[17:11] – Engineering Advice: Understanding Timing Requirements
 
Follow Evan
Evan Alexander on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanralexander
 
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions about Microchip’s smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions and connect with us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes. We'd also appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.
 
Want more? Look out for more upcoming podcasts from Microchip:
Beyond the Microchip
So much of our daily lives are controlled or influenced by electronics. We rely on GPS to direct us, we hit "brew" on our coffee machines for our mornin' cup of Joe, we wave our hands over a sensor to get running water from a faucet, and press a button to open our garage doors. 
But do we really know what's going on inside? Are we aware of the universe of technology and calculations going on right under our nose?
Beyond the Microchip takes you inside the world of Embedded Control technologies to understand how the chips and sensors we can't see impact our lives in dramatic ways. They remind us why we have and embrace technology, to enhance the human experience. 
Join us each episode as we look at an aspect of our daily lives that shapes what it means to be human and how we can empower the innovation that enhances that experience through Microchip Technology. Subscribe to Beyond the Microchip wherever you get your podcasts.

Microchip is… Industrial Ethernet

Interview With Matthias Karcher, Associate Director of Marketing for Wired Networking at Microchip Technology Inc.
In this podcast, we speak to Matthias Karcher, associate director of marketing for wired networking at Microchip, about how Microchip is working on the development and deployment of industrial Ethernet solutions.
As industries continue to evolve toward smarter, more connected systems, Ethernet has become the backbone of modern industrial communication. Microchip offers a comprehensive portfolio of Industrial Ethernet solutions including transceivers, bridges, and switches that support everything from 10 megabits to multi-gigabit speeds. The portfolio covers standard multi-pair Ethernet to emerging single-pair Ethernet technologies, enabling efficient, high-performance connectivity.
Mike and Matthias discuss why Ethernet continues to dominate industrial networking, the benefits of single-pair Ethernet, and how Microchip helps customers integrate robust networking solutions across a wide range of industrial and embedded applications.
Find out more about Industrial Ethernet at Microchip here: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/products/high-speed-networking-and-video/ethernet
 
Time Stamps
[02:58] - Why engineers choose ethernet
[05:23] - Introduction to single-pair ethernet
[10:18] - Power over ethernet vs. Power over data line
[13:00] - Total system solutions and collaboration at Microchip
[14:15] - Best engineering advice for Industrial Ethernet
Follow Matthias
Matthias Karcher on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthiaskarcher
 
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions about Microchip’s smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions and connect with us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes. We'd also appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.
 
Want more? Look out for more upcoming podcasts from Microchip:
Beyond the Microchip
So much of our daily lives are controlled or influenced by electronics. We rely on GPS to direct us, we hit "brew" on our coffee machines for our mornin' cup of Joe, we wave our hands over a sensor to get running water from a faucet, and press a button to open our garage doors. 
But do we really know what's going on inside? Are we aware of the universe of technology and calculations going on right under our nose?
Beyond the Microchip takes you inside the world of Embedded Control technologies to understand how the chips and sensors we can't see impact our lives in dramatic ways. They remind us why we have and embrace technology, to enhance the human experience. 
Join us each episode as we look at an aspect of our daily lives that shapes what it means to be human and how we can empower the innovation that enhances that experience through Microchip Technology. Subscribe to Beyond the Microchip wherever you get your podcasts.