purpose ICs, ASICs are engineered for distinct tasks, eliminating unnecessary circuitry and minimising power draw.
For instance, in robotic systems, ASICs can be tailored to refine motor control by optimising pulsewidth modulation( PWM) signals, ensuring motors operate at peak efficiency, improving overall system performance and reducing waste.
Furthermore, traditional industrial systems rely on several discrete ICs for signal processing, power management and motor control. However, this increases power consumption, heat generation and overall system complexity. In comparison, ASICs consolidate these functions, reducing energy losses from inter-chip communication and minimising the number of required components.
Modern mixed-signal ASICs take this integration further. These chips combine analogue front-end circuits— such as amplifiers, filters and analogue-to-digital( ADC) and
Ross Turnbull, Director of Business Development and Product Engineering at ASIC design
digital-to-analogue( DAC) converters— with digital processing cores to capture, convert and process sensor data in real time. This not only eliminates the need for extra power-hungry components but also enhances signal fidelity, reduces latency and mitigates inter-chip noise.
This consolidation has secondary environmental and economic benefits. By reducing the number of components and materials needed, ASICs decrease waste generation, lower production costs and support more sustainable manufacturing practices.
Swindon Silicon Systems partners with manufacturers throughout the design process— starting from initial specifications to wafer production, packaging and testing. This collaboration ensures that each ASIC is optimised for energy efficiency, functionality and long-term reliability, helping manufacturers meet the operational demands of diverse industrial applications.
Integrating custom ASICs into industrial systems is not just about achieving better energy efficiency; it’ s about embracing a future where sustainability and performance go hand in hand. ASICs will play a key role in balancing high-performance automation with energy efficiency as industries evolve, paving the way for smarter, greener industrial solutions.
For further information, please visit www. swindonsilicon. com
Issue 78 PECM 15