Photovoltaics: gaining greater visibility
Article Abstract:
The US photovoltaics industry is developing a technology roadmap for long-term growth similar to those developed by the semiconductor industry. Photovoltaic (PV) arrays can be combined with other power sources to create consumer-sited electric generation systems. The US can be mapped to match PV output to utility demand, which is greatest on hot summer days when the sun is brightest. Assuming a consumer demands 300 kWh per month with a load peak of 4 kW, a connection could be extended to the utility and a PV system installed with modules rated for peak output of 2 kW, 20 6-V batteries rated at 300 Ah, and an inverter rated at 4KW. This system would cost between $20,000 and $25,000, which is about what utility companies charge to extend a power line to a house. Once installed the PV system would cost about the same in maintenance as electricity drawn from the utility. A PV system would cost less than a small diesel generator, and it would be easy to expand as demand increases.
Publication Name: IEEE Spectrum
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0018-9235
Year: 1999
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Approaching the quantum limit: in devices with features smaller than 0.1 micrometer, electrons behave more like waves in waveguides than like particles
Article Abstract:
Advances in electronics research will eventually make molecular-sized or nanometer-sized electronic circuits possible. However, there are a number of obstacles researchers must overcome before the industry will embrace the technology and begin producing ultra-small semiconductor devices. One of the biggest obstacles is that single electronics works only at extremely low temperatures. Tiny refrigeration units may be necessary if researchers do not find a way for such systems to work at room temperature. There are also speed limitations on nanometer-sized devices and therefore these tiny devices may not achieve the speeds now performed by larger devices. Conducting the research necessary to produce ultra-small transistors and semiconductor devices will be expensive and some in the electronics industry believe money would be better spent on improving traditional techniques.
Publication Name: IEEE Spectrum
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0018-9235
Year: 1992
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Putting passives in their place: resistors, inductors, and capacitors are disappearing from view, integrated into the circuit board itself
Article Abstract:
Passive components, such as capacitors, resistors and inductors, have taken up most of the room on traditional circuit boards. Now, passive devices are being shrunk, flattened and/or integrated, leaving more room for batteries and making it possible to design electronic devices that are thinner and sleeker.
Publication Name: IEEE Spectrum
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0018-9235
Year: 2003
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