Brad on Broadcast

IBM Research has announced the demonstration of a 100GHz graphene transistor. The company says that its graphene transistor is faster than today’s state-of-the-art transistors, which have a cutoff of 40GHz using the same architecture. Experts say graphene’s properties could lead to even faster transistors. more

After nine years and $100 million, holographic storage pioneer InPhase Technologies has closed. The company’s office building was also seized for nonpayment of back taxes.

Readers may recall the numerous articles in Broadcast Engineering about holographic storage as the technology marched toward a product launch. Unfortunately, it appears that even a decade of work and $100 million doesn’t guarantee success. more

Hidden in President Obama’s 2011 budget is almost $5 billion in new FCC fees. These fees consist of both spectrum auctions and “license fees.” That shouldn’t surprise anyone. Previous presidents have proposed that broadcasters pay more and higher fees for the use of spectrum. However, in light of the push for broadband, broadcasters should be especially concerned. more

By Ken Michaels, F.D. Hayes Electric Co.

Popular with electricians and electrical inspectors, this device is inexpensive. You can easily use it to test a receptacle for correct polarity. But is it giving you a false sense of security?

Some three-lamp circuit testers prove our industry’s old adage: The bitter taste of poor quality remains long after you’ve forgotten the sweet smell of low price. more