Application of LoRa Protocol in IoT
Mr. Roberto Medina
Hardware Engineer and Research Scholar and CEO
Sosteco
Thu, 09/21/2023
Abstract: The rapid evolution of the Internet of Things (IoT) necessitates robust and efficient communication protocols. This lecture zooms in on the LoRa (Long Range) protocol, heralded for its superior range and low power consumption in IoT applications. While traditional Wi-Fi and cellular technologies have their merits, LoRa stands out in scenarios demanding extended communication distances with minimal energy draw.
To provide a clear perspective, we compare LoRa with other leading technologies on parameters like performance, range, power consumption, security, cost, and application suitability. Through real-world case studies, attendees will glean insights into LoRa's distinct advantages and potential challenges. By the lecture's end, participants will have a nuanced understanding of where and how LoRa fits into the broader IoT communication landscape.
Bio: Mr. Roberto Medina has over two decades of experience in hardware design and IoT. He worked at Alfiz, handling engineering projects and technical solutions. In 2015, he started Sosteco, focusing on the digital transformation of cities and businesses. With Sosteco, he worked with big names like Accenture and Telefónica on projects related to smart cities, IoT, and radio technologies. Roberto also collaborated with Opossum Studios on virtual reality projects using the Unreal Engine. As a Co-Founder of Metafusio, he's still active in the IoT field. His skills in leadership, hardware engineering, and communication make him a key player in the tech industry.
Test Station Development - Consumer Electronics
Mr. Michael Vargas
Director of HW Engineering
Pocket Radar
Thu, 09/07/2023
Abstract: The goal of this presentation is to educate students on several topics around production of consumer electronics as it relates to engineering. We’ll discuss tradeoffs between product and test stations design. From early stages of the product design process known as design for manufacturing (DFM) to best practices around test station development. When producing a product, you look at things from a holistic view. Since any stage in the production process can cause a bottle neck and reduce throughput. Too much or too little testing can result in serious consequences for the business.
Bio: Michael Vargas is the Director of Hardware Engineering at Pocket Radar. He graduated from SSU with a degree in Electrical Engineering in 2018 and started working for Pocket Radar right after graduation. His first position was mainly focused on production engineering which transitioned to R&D engineering and then into management. Working at a small company you find yourself wearing several hats and for Michael this means it’s not uncommon for him to do design work on high priority projects while still performing functions relevant to his job title. Michael will be starting an MBA program at UC Davis in the fall with hopes to continue moving upward within the company. During his off time, he enjoys being outdoors as much as possible.
Satellite communications Basics: From Orbits to Modulation
Ian Furniss
Satellite Solutions Applications Engineer
Keysight Technologies, Santa Rosa, CA
Thu, 04/20/2023
Abstract: Satellite communications experience many unique challenges in closing the link budget and providing reliable and resilient data throughput. These challenges range from overcoming the vast distances to managing atmospheric perturbations to generating unique modulations that are both spectrally and power efficient. In this discussion we will briefly cover these various topics including some modulation basics and dive into some of the only communications standards that exist for satellite communications and why they are used to overcome these challenges. This will lead to a brief introduction of some test and measurement solutions that enable these challenging networks to be created and maintained from concept to launch.
BIO: Ian is an Applications Development Engineer in Keysight’s Space and Satellite Solutions group, currently focused on helping commercial and government entities accelerate their visions in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) mega-constellation new space race. Ian’s areas of expertise span signal analysis and generation, particularly tackling design and test challenges in Digital Video Broadcasting - Satellite Second Generation Extended (DVB-S2X), DVB - 2nd Generation Return Channel via Satellite (RCS2), custom Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM), and 5th Generation Non-Terrestrial Networks (5G NTN) at frequencies from Ku- and Ka-band through V- and W-band.
New Product Introduction
Mr. David House
Hardware Engineer
Keysight Technologies, Santa Rosa, CA
Thu, 04/06/2023
Abstract: New Product Introduction Engineering is a field of engineering that ensures the quality and robustness of new designs and processes. The role of the NPI engineer is to take a design from R&D and help get it ready for full scale production. This talk will delve into the tasks and skill sets that are needed and developed as an NPI engineer.
Bio: David House is a Hardware Engineer at Keysight working in the Network Analyzer NPI group. He has also worked as a software engineer developing Human Machine Interfaces for a local security electronics company. He received his MS and BS degrees from Sonoma State University.
Key Technologies for Upgrading Cable Television Networks
Mr. Chris Day
Director
Design Center, Analog Devices, Santa Rosa, CA
Thu, 03/16/2023
Abstract: The movement towards a remote workforce brought on by the COVID pandemic have combined with competition to place strong pressure on Cable Television operators to increase their network performance. Recent industry initiatives are touting up to 10 GBps using the existing coaxial cables with upgraded repeater amplifiers. A new DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) standard has been approved with significant trials slated for later this year. The new specification, DOCSIS 4.0, supports two divergent architectures each with strengths and weaknesses.
In this presentation, physical-layer technologies that enable DOCSIS 4.0 systems to reach their goals are discussed. Achieving higher levels of signal output to overcome losses in cables without adding distortion is essential to transmit more complex signal modulation that improve spectral efficiency. Improved amplifier linearity continues to be a key enabler for many communication networks. It can be achieved through a combination of newer device technologies such as GaN (Gallium-Nitride) and careful design with an array of linearization circuit techniques.
Bio: Chris Day has 35 years of experience in RF circuits, systems, and markets. After working at Hewlett Packard Santa Rosa for 9 years as an R&D Engineer on Vector Network Analyzers, he became an entrepreneur in the Cable Television industry. He co-founded three companies over a 25-year period, including TriAccess Technologies (acquired by TriQuint Semiconductor in 2009) and OneTree Microdevices (acquired by Analog Devices in 2017). He currently works for Analog Devices as a Design Center Director in their Santa Rosa office. He has a BSEE from UC Berkeley and an MBA from Golden Gate University. He has 6 patents on broadband amplifier linearization.