Würth Elektronik Watts Up Podcast

RF systems rarely fail in obvious ways. More often, performance erodes quietly; a dB here, a little range there, until designs no longer match expectations. In this episode, we discuss one of the most overlooked sources of RF loss: the transition from a controlled‑impedance PCB trace to a connector and coaxial cable. You'll learn why "50 ohms" is a wave property, not a component value, how small geometry changes at the PCB‑to‑connector interface can create impedance discontinuities, and why connectors and cables should be treated as part of the transmission line, not mechanical afterthoughts. We'll also cover how cable selection, bend radius, mechanical stability, and prototype‑to‑production variability can quietly eat into your link budget, even when the radio and antenna are unchanged. Whether you're designing your first RF system or chasing a few lost dB in a mature product, this episode breaks down the hidden risks and practical design considerations that help protect system margin before they show up in the field. To view datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or the MyWE customer portal.  RELATED SOLUTIONS: Trilogy of Connectors Reference Guide: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/TRILOGY_OF_CONNECTORS_ENGLISH Coaxial Connectors: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/em/connectors/coax   Coaxial Cable Assemblies: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/em/connectors/coax/coaxial_connectors_cable_assemblies  Coaxial Cable Configurator: https://www.we-online.com/en/products/components/service/customized-solutions/cableconfigurator   Listen to our PODCAST🎙️: https://www.we-online.com/en/news-center/podcast  Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wurth-elektronik (Americas) Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wuerth-elektronik-group (Europe) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WurthElectronics/ (Americas) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wuerth.Elektronik.Group/ (Europe) Follow us on X: https://x.com/WurthElectronic/ (Americas) Follow us on X: https://x.com/we_online (Europe) Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wurthelectronics (Americas)

RF systems rarely fail in obvious ways. More often, performance erodes quietly; a dB here, a little range there, until designs no longer match expectations. In this episode, we discuss one of the most overlooked sources of RF loss: the transition from a controlled‑impedance PCB trace to a connector and coaxial cable. You'll learn why "50 ohms" is a wave property, not a component value, how small geometry changes at the PCB‑to‑connector interface can create impedance discontinuities, and why connectors and cables should be treated as part of the transmission line — not mechanical afterthoughts. We'll also cover how cable selection, bend radius, mechanical stability, and prototype‑to‑production variability can quietly eat into your link budget, even when the radio and antenna are unchanged. Whether you're designing your first RF system or chasing a few lost dB in a mature product, this episode breaks down the hidden risks and practical design considerations that help protect system margin before they show up in the field. To view datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or the MyWE customer portal.  RELATED SOLUTIONS: Trilogy of Connectors Reference Guide: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/TRILOGY_OF_CONNECTORS_ENGLISH   Coaxial Connectors: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/em/connectors/coax  Coaxial Cable Assemblies: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/em/connectors/coax/coaxial_connectors_cable_assemblies  Coaxial Cable Configurator: https://www.we-online.com/en/products/components/service/customized-solutions/cableconfigurator   Listen to our PODCAST🎙️: https://www.we-online.com/en/news-center/podcast  Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wurth-elektronik (Americas) Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wuerth-elektronik-group (Europe) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WurthElectronics/ (Americas) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wuerth.Elektronik.Group/ (Europe) Follow us on X: https://x.com/WurthElectronic/ (Americas) Follow us on X: https://x.com/we_online (Europe) Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wurthelectronics (Americas) Würth Elektronik online: https://www.we-online.com/  

Electromagnetic issues in advanced electronics often show up in the last places engineers expect, turning even well‑designed systems into sources of interference or unexpected malfunction. In this episode, you'll learn about the most common culprits behind interference headaches in Edge AI designs, including layout pitfalls, cabling and grounding surprises, and how high‑speed interfaces like 10BASE‑T1L with PoDL add new layers of complexity. Our experts from Würth Elektronik and Texas Instruments will break down why small design decisions can dramatically affect electromagnetic performance, and how practical techniques, from component selection to sensor board design, can keep interference from derailing your project.   To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or the MyWE customer portal.   RELATED SOLUTIONS: Download the Presented Slides: https://bit.ly/edge_ai_deck EMC Components: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/pbs/emc_components 10BASE-T1L SPE Sensor with PoDL Reference Design from Texas Instruments: https://www.ti.com/tool/TIDA-010261 Texas Instruments Reference Designs: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/icref/texas-instruments   Listen to our PODCAST🎙️: https://www.we-online.com/en/news-center/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wurth-elektronik (Americas) Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wuerth-elektronik-group (Europe) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WurthElectronics/ (Americas) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wuerth.Elektronik.Group/ (Europe) Follow us on X: https://x.com/WurthElectronic/ (Americas) Follow us on X: https://x.com/we_online (Europe) Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wurthelectronics (Americas) Würth Elektronik online: https://www.we-online.com/

Electromagnetic issues in advanced electronics often show up in the last places engineers expect, turning even well‑designed systems into sources of interference or unexpected malfunction. In this episode, you'll learn about the most common culprits behind interference headaches in Edge AI designs, including layout pitfalls, cabling and grounding surprises, and how high‑speed interfaces like 10BASE‑T1L with PoDL add new layers of complexity. Our experts from Würth Elektronik and Texas Instruments will break down why small design decisions can dramatically affect electromagnetic performance, and how practical techniques, from component selection to sensor board design, can keep interference from derailing your project.   To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or the MyWE customer portal.   RELATED SOLUTIONS: Presented Slides: https://bit.ly/edge_ai_deck EMC Components: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/pbs/emc_components 10BASE-T1L SPE Sensor with PoDL Reference Design from Texas Instruments: https://www.ti.com/tool/TIDA-010261 Texas Instruments Reference Designs: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/icref/texas-instruments   Listen to our PODCAST🎙️: https://www.we-online.com/en/news-center/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wurth-elektronik (Americas) Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wuerth-elektronik-group (Europe) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WurthElectronics/ (Americas) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wuerth.Elektronik.Group/ (Europe) Follow us on X: https://x.com/WurthElectronic/ (Americas) Follow us on X: https://x.com/we_online (Europe) Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wurthelectronics (Americas) Würth Elektronik online: https://www.we-online.com/

Unexpected overheating in electronic systems often appears in places engineers least expect, making reliable design a real challenge. In this episode, we explore why thermal problems don't always follow theory and why standard calculations sometimes miss the true source of heat build-up.   You'll learn about the main factors that create hidden thermal resistance, such as air gaps, imperfect interfaces, and material thickness. We explain why the "highest conductivity" materials aren't automatically the best solution and how practical strategies like gap fillers, spreaders, and thermally conductive adhesives can prevent and solve thermal failures. Our experts share real-world design tips to manage hotspots, improve reliability, and select the right thermal interface materials for your specific application.   RELATED COMPONENTS: Gap Filling Solutions: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/tm/gap_filling_solutions   Thermal Gap Filler Pad: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/THERMAL_WE-TGF   Thermal Transfer Tape: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/THERMAL_WE-TTT   Conductive Insulator Pad: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/THERMAL_WE-TINS   Graphite Sheet (Heat Spreading Solutions): https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/THERMAL_WE-TGS   Graphite Foam Gasket (hybrid Solutions): https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/THERMAL_WE-TGFG b To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or the MyWE customer portal. Listen to our PODCAST🎙️: https://www.we-online.com/en/news-center/podcast    Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wurth-elektronik (Americas)   Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wuerth-elektronik-group (Europe)   Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WurthElectronics/ (Americas)   Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wuerth.Elektronik.Group/ (Europe)   Follow us on X: https://x.com/WurthElectronic/ (Americas)   Follow us on X: https://x.com/we_online (Europe)   Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wurthelectronics (Americas)   Würth Elektronik online: https://www.we-online.com/ 

A Hands-On Guide to Diagnosing and Overcoming Thermal Surprises in Electronics Unexpected overheating in electronic systems often appears in places engineers least expect, making reliable design a real challenge. In this episode, we explore why thermal problems don't always follow theory and why standard calculations sometimes miss the true source of heat build-up.   You'll learn about the main factors that create hidden thermal resistance, such as air gaps, imperfect interfaces, and material thickness. We explain why the "highest conductivity" materials aren't automatically the best solution and how practical strategies like gap fillers, spreaders, and thermally conductive adhesives can prevent and solve thermal failures. Our experts share real-world design tips to manage hotspots, improve reliability, and select the right thermal interface materials for your specific application.   RELATED COMPONENTS: Gap Filling Solutions: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/tm/gap_filling_solutions   Thermal Gap Filler Pad: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/THERMAL_WE-TGF   Thermal Transfer Tape: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/THERMAL_WE-TTT   Conductive Insulator Pad: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/THERMAL_WE-TINS   Graphite Sheet (Heat Spreading Solutions): https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/THERMAL_WE-TGS   Graphite Foam Gasket (hybrid Solutions): https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/THERMAL_WE-TGFG   To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or the MyWE customer portal.   Listen to our PODCAST🎙️: https://www.we-online.com/en/news-center/podcast  Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wurth-elektronik (Americas) Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wuerth-elektronik-group (Europe) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WurthElectronics/ (Americas) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wuerth.Elektronik.Group/ (Europe) Follow us on X: https://x.com/WurthElectronic/ (Americas) Follow us on X: https://x.com/we_online (Europe) Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wurthelectronics (Americas) Würth Elektronik online: https://www.we-online.com/ 

Selecting the right common mode choke (CMC) can make or break your EMI suppression strategy, but it's easy to fall into common traps. In this episode of "Common Pitfalls of the Common Mode Choke," we highlight the errors most often made during CMC selection, such as focusing only on inductance or overlooking the importance of core material and geometry. You'll learn the practical differences between inductance and impedance, how construction affects performance, and a straightforward workflow for choosing the best CMC for your application. To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or visit the MyWE customer portal.   Listen to our PODCAST🎙️: https://www.we-online.com/en/news-center/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wurth-elektronik (Americas) Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wuerth-elektronik-group (Europe) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WurthElectronics/ (Americas) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wuerth.Elektronik.Group/ (Europe) Follow us on X: https://x.com/WurthElectronic/ (Americas) Follow us on X: https://x.com/we_online (Europe) Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wurthelectronics (Americas)   Würth Elektronik online: https://www.we-online.com/  

Selecting the right common mode choke (CMC) can make or break your EMI suppression strategy, but it's easy to fall into common traps. In this episode of "Common Pitfalls of the Common Mode Choke," we highlight the errors most often made during CMC selection, such as focusing only on inductance or overlooking the importance of core material and geometry. You'll learn the practical differences between inductance and impedance, how construction affects performance, and a straightforward workflow for choosing the best CMC for your application. To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or visit the MyWE customer portal.   Listen to our PODCAST🎙️: https://www.we-online.com/en/news-center/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wurth-elektronik (Americas) Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wuerth-elektronik-group (Europe) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WurthElectronics/ (Americas) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wuerth.Elektronik.Group/ (Europe) Follow us on X: https://x.com/WurthElectronic/ (Americas) Follow us on X: https://x.com/we_online (Europe) Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wurthelectronics (Americas) Würth Elektronik online: https://www.we-online.com/  

In this episode of the Würth Elektronik Watts Up Podcast, we examine the different types of ambient energy and the technical challenges of converting and storing them efficiently. We discuss practical methods for turning ambient energy into reliable power, strategies for managing irregular energy and voltage fluctuations, and the effects of energy loss due to leakage.   We also cover low power converter ICs that handle energy from multiple harvesters and supply microprocessors with integrated RF modules for wireless, autonomous operation. Additionally, we address the important role of low power sensors within the energy harvesting ecosystem. For datasheets, samples, and a technical overview, visit Würth Elektronik online or access the MyWE customer portal.    Würth Elektronik online: https://www.we-online.com/  

In this episode of the Würth Elektronik Watts Up Podcast, we examine the different types of ambient energy and the technical challenges of converting and storing them efficiently. We discuss practical methods for turning ambient energy into reliable power, strategies for managing irregular energy and voltage fluctuations, and the effects of energy loss due to leakage.   We also cover low power converter ICs that handle energy from multiple harvesters and supply microprocessors with integrated RF modules for wireless, autonomous operation. Additionally, we address the important role of low power sensors within the energy harvesting ecosystem. For datasheets, samples, and a technical overview, visit Würth Elektronik online or access the MyWE customer portal.    Listen to our PODCAST🎙️: https://www.we-online.com/en/news-center/podcast

In this episode of the Würth Elektronik Watts Up Podcast, we focus on the fundamentals of transient suppression and EMI filtering for different electronic interfaces. As electronic devices become more interconnected, controlling voltage spikes and interference is increasingly important.   We discuss filter designs for mains power, asymmetrical, and symmetrical signal interfaces, explaining how to select and size components such as ferrites, capacitors, varistors, and TVS diodes. You'll hear calculation examples and learn how to apply these solutions to scenarios like USB and power line protection.   Topics include: - Why transient suppression is critical for modern circuits - How to approach filter design for different interface types - Component selection tips and calculation steps - Application examples and common pitfalls   For more details, download the full application note: https://www.we-online.com/components/media/o869938v410%20SN024a_EN.pdf   To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or visit the MyWE customer portal.   Listen to our PODCAST🎙️: https://www.we-online.com/en/news-center/podcast   Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wurth-elektronik (Americas)   Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wuerth-elektronik-group (Europe)   Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WurthElectronics/ (Americas)   Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wuerth.Elektronik.Group/ (Europe)   Follow us on X: https://x.com/WurthElectronic/ (Americas)   Follow us on X: https://x.com/we_online (Europe)   Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wurthelectronics (Americas)   Würth Elektronik online: https://www.we-online.com/

In this episode, we explain the essentials of EMC shielding for electronics: what shielding is, how it works, when you need it, and the most common pitfalls to avoid. Discover how the right materials, good design practices, and early planning can help you pass compliance the first time.  To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or visit the MyWE customer portal. Find all EMC Shielding materials from Wurth Elektronik: https://www.we-online.com/en/components/products/pbs/emc_components/emi_shielding_material Listen to our PODCAST🎙️: https://www.we-online.com/en/news-center/podcast Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wurth-elektronik (Americas) Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wuerth-elektronik-group (Europe) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WurthElectronics/ (Americas) Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Wuerth.Elektronik.Group/ (Europe) Follow us on X: https://x.com/WurthElectronic/ (Americas) Follow us on X: https://x.com/we_online (Europe) Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wurthelectronics (Americas) Würth Elektronik online: https://www.we-online.com/  Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:02 What is EMC shielding? 03:45 How shielding works 05:27 Shielding materials and effectiveness 10:09 Shielding weak points and effectiveness 12:31 Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Designing with DC/DC converters often means relying on molded inductors for their small footprint and ability to withstand harsh environments. However, higher electrical and thermal stresses can gradually increase magnetic core loss due to insulation breakdown within the core material. In this episode, we explain the percolation phenomenon, Würth Elektronik's approach to understanding insulation degradation in molded inductors, and what it means for the long-term performance of your designs.  To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or visit the MyWE customer portal.

Designing with DC/DC converters often means relying on molded inductors for their small footprint and ability to withstand harsh environments. However, higher electrical and thermal stresses can gradually increase magnetic core loss due to insulation breakdown within the core material. In this episode, we explain the percolation phenomenon, Würth Elektronik's approach to understanding insulation degradation in molded inductors, and what it means for the long-term performance of your designs.  To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or visit the MyWE customer portal.

This episode focuses on the increasing use of high-performance power connectors in automotive systems, driven by the shift toward electrification and higher power demands. The REDCUBE series stands out for its ability to deliver stable, low-resistance connections in environments where reliability and mechanical strength are essential. We'll highlight key design considerations, cover how REDCUBE terminals support automotive and industrial applications, and discuss its mechanics and durability in these demanding conditions.   To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or visit the MyWE customer portal. 

This episode focuses on the increasing use of high-performance power connectors in automotive systems, driven by the shift toward electrification and higher power demands. The REDCUBE series stands out for its ability to deliver stable, low-resistance connections in environments where reliability and mechanical strength are essential. We'll highlight key design considerations, cover how REDCUBE terminals support automotive and industrial applications, and discuss its mechanics and durability in these demanding conditions. To view the datasheets or order samples, visit Würth Elektronik online or visit the MyWE customer portal. [Download the full Application Note here.]

How can custom transformers revolutionize your electronic systems and why are they so difficult to understand?! In our latest episode, we unravel the mysteries of the custom transformer so you can save valuable PCB space, get optimized performance, and ensure a seamless fit for unique applications. We also address the complexities of meeting specific electrical, mechanical, and efficiency requirements while tackling cost, lead times, and minimum order quantity concerns. Learn how custom designs pave the way for enhanced efficiency, superior performance, and a distinct competitive advantage in the market. For more information, visit www.we-online.com to connect with a Würth Elektronik magnetics expert or browse our extensive range of magnetic solutions. 

How can custom transformers revolutionize your electronic systems and why are they so difficult to understand?! In our latest episode, we unravel the mysteries of the custom transformer so you can save valuable PCB space, get optimized performance, and ensure a seamless fit for unique applications. We also address the complexities of meeting specific electrical, mechanical, and efficiency requirements while tackling cost, lead times, and minimum order quantity concerns. Learn how custom designs pave the way for enhanced efficiency, superior performance, and a distinct competitive advantage in the market. For more information, visit www.we-online.com to connect with a Würth Elektronik magnetics expert or browse our extensive range of magnetic solutions. 

In the second part of our two-part series on the Watts Up Podcast, Würth Elektronik teams up with Nexperia once again to provide a closer look at the NEVB-MTR-C-1 Motor Driver Evaluation Kit. This episode features an expert panel including Stein Hans Nesbakk and Aanas Sayed from Nexperia, and Sherin Sadek, Jared Birk, Ameer Elatrash, and host, Amelia Thompson from Würth Elektronik.   Together, they discuss the technical details, unique features, and hackability of the kit, along with a Q&A session with our experts. Perfect for engineers looking for a user-friendly and versatile motor drive solution. Visit Nexperia online to order the kit and download the user manual. For details on components and to download the reference design, visit the Würth Elektronik IC Reference Design page.

In the second part of our two-part series on the Watts Up Podcast, Würth Elektronik teams up with Nexperia once again to provide a closer look at the NEVB-MTR-C-1 Motor Driver Evaluation Kit. This episode features an expert panel including Stein Hans Nesbakk and Aanas Sayed from Nexperia, and Sherin Sadek, Jared Birk, Ameer Elatrash, and host, Amelia Thompson from Würth Elektronik.   Together, they discuss the technical details, unique features, and hackability of the kit, along with a Q&A session with our experts. Perfect for engineers looking for a user-friendly and versatile motor drive solution. Visit Nexperia online to order the kit and download the user manual. For details on components and to download the reference design, visit the Würth Elektronik IC Reference Design page.