Tech Briefs

Electronics & Software

Access our comprehensive library of technical briefs on electronics and software, from engineering experts at NASA and major government, university, and commercial laboratories.

Briefs: Connectivity

Formula May Help 5G Wireless Networks Share Communications Frequencies

This method of machine learning could make communications in the unlicensed bands much more efficient.

Briefs: Photonics/Optics

Electronically Controlled 2D Reflector Improves Microwave Communications

Flat-panel technology could transform antennas, wireless, and cellphone communications.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Technology Integrates Electronics onto Physical Prototypes

In place of flat breadboards, 3D-printed CurveBoards enable easier testing of circuit design on electronics products.

Briefs: Electronics & Computers

Hermetically Sealed Semiconductors

A new encapsulation technique protects electronic properties of sensitive materials.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Miniature Electronic Devices Work Under Extreme Pressure

Pop-up miniature electronics based on the Japanese art of kirigami can be repeatedly compressed.

Briefs: Materials

Aerogels Protect Against Electromagnetic Interference

Aerogels based on cellulose nanofibers can effectively shield electromagnetic radiation over a wide frequency range.

Briefs: Electronics & Computers

Electronics Cooling Using Additive Manufacturing

Additive manufacturing creates cooling solutions with sizes and shapes not previously possible.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Quantum Error Correction Method

This method provides a key step toward quantum computers, sensors, and distributed quantum information.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Tunable, Chip-Based, Vortex Microlaser and Detector

This system encodes information in twisting beams of light.

Briefs: Test & Measurement

Smart Windows Self-Illuminate on Rainy Days

Self-powering, color-changing humidity sensors are applicable to various fields including smart windows, health care, and safety management.

Briefs: Energy

Self-Powered Alarm Fights Forest Fires, Monitors Environment

A remote forest fire detection and alarm system is powered by nothing but the movement of trees in the wind.

Briefs: Imaging

Leap in Lidar Could Improve Safety and Security of New Technology

University of Colorado researchers have described a new silicon chip that improves the resolution and scanning speed needed for a lidar system.

Briefs: Software

Graphene-Reinforced Carbon Fiber

This high-strength material could be used to improve safety and reduce the cost of producing cars.

Briefs: Manufacturing & Prototyping

Hummingbird Robot Uses AI to Maneuver in Tight Spaces

The robots could fly silently for covert operations and stay steady through turbulence.

Briefs: Electronics & Computers

Wireless “Pacemaker” for the Brain

This neurostimulator could deliver fine-tuned treatments to patients with diseases such as epilepsy and Parkinson’s.

Briefs: Sensors/Data Acquisition

Breathable Electronics for Wearable Technologies

The material was designed specifically for biomedical or wearable technologies, since sweat and volatile organic compounds evaporate away from the skin.