Microchip is...

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.  

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.  

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.  

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.  

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.