Improving the efficiency of vapor-compression systems has justifiably focused on the electro-mechanical devices that actually consume energy, such as compressors and fans, but more attention is now being paid to heat exchangers, those passive, unheralded components that play a key role in overall system efficiency. It's actually a dual role, as one heat exchanger rejects heat on the condenser side of the system and another heat exchanger absorbs heat on the evaporator side. Find out more.

Custom membrane switches are now available that feature a precise graphic ic on and key ring lighting in an ultra-thin package for a wide range of OEM applications, where capacitive and mechanical switches would be too thick. The switches feature discrete icon and key ring back lighting in a package that is 0.081 in.  thick, depending upon configuration.  Engineered to OEM requirements, these thin-profile membrane switches are totally sealed, the back lights provide uniform brightness in any color, without hot spots, and can be positioned on 0.787 in. centerline spacing. Offered in sizes from 1 in. up to 12 in. sq., with custom graphics and die-cuts, the switches can be designed to conform to ASTM specifications for electrical and environmental output; and IP-67 requirements.  Applications include appliances, avionics, consumer electronics, electrical, industrial controls, instruments, and medical and laboratory equipment. Want to learn more?

The C-Series Thermal Expansion Valve (TXV) is designed and optimized for use i n R-410A systems. This difference is critically important as the industry moves closer to 2010, the deadline for eliminating production of new systems designed for R-22 and other HCFC refrigerants. The C-Series TXV provides the most precise superheat control in the industry, resulting in greatly enhanced compressor protection. When combined with the Copeland Scroll compressor, the C-Series TXV becomes a critical element in the industry's most energy efficient R-410A systems. It joins the EKZ Filter Drier in the R-410A optimized product lineup of Emerson valves, controls and system protectors. Other key features of the C-Series TXV include: best in class reverse flow capacity, balanced-port construction, newly designed power element and charge , and hermetic leak-free construction. Find out more.

The SP72x Series of SCR Diode Arrays for Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) is we ll suited for protection of microprocessor/logic inputs, data bus lines, analog device inputs, and many other voltage clamp applications. It features an operating voltage range from 2V to 30V, surge current of 14A with an 8x20µs waveform, a response time of 2ns rise time, input capacitance of 5pF maximum, and leakage current of 5nA typical, 20nA maximum. The thyristor-based design of the SP725 silicon diode array utilizes two bipolar SCR/diode structures to protect each of the four inputs (typically external signal or bus lines). Its operation is similar to what is known as a steering diode, but it has lower capacitance and leakage current for a given impulse rating. This means less chance of communication signal distortion. Each SCR structure is triggered on by any current that biases the SCR into conduction against the supply rails. Want to learn more?