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This reminded me of a Blog entry I wrote about in 2013 on "Massive Electro-Pyrotechnic Initiator Chip Resistor (MEPIC)". These are 0805 chip resisters that are by design meant to let out the Magic Smoke that runs all electronic parts.

Sadly I could not get free samples from my Vishay Rep, that I was in good standing with. MEPIC85N8R0KTT come in lots of 10,000 to buy.

Be sure to check out the application note "A Guide to Using EPIC / MEPIC Igniters in Pyrotechnic Applications".

https://www.vishay.com/en/product/53058/

National Semiconductor, bought by TI, used to make a similar part, check out the application note:

https://www.ti.com/lit/an/snoa217/snoa217.pdf

This is what I wrote about the MEPIC parts a long time ago:

"MEPIC resistors, also known as bridge resistors, are resistive elements that convert electrical energy into heat energy in a precise electro-thermal profile for the purpose of initiating a series of pyrotechnic events in a controlled energetic reaction. [They go BOOM on command, which is different than Rapid Spontaneous Self-Disassembly.]

The new Vishay Sfernice resistor is optimized for electronic igniter applications in automotive safety systems for the deployment of airbags and other safety devices; digital blasting in mining applications; and in fireworks applications for better synchronization of fireworks, music, and special effects.

With firing energy down to 1.5 mJ and a typical ohmic range of 2 Ohms (+/- 10 %), the device provides designers with very predictable, reproducible, and reliable behavior.

Offered in the standard 0805 case size for the wraparound and flip chip versions, with other sizes available upon request, the resistor features easy set-up of firing levels, and is compatible with various pyrotechnic compositions.

Offering ESD withstanding to 25 kV without extra protection, the MEPIC resistor's performance meets no fire/all fire conditions and the requirements of USCAR, AKLV16, and major car manufacturer standards.

The device is RoHS-compliant and conforms to Vishay "Green" standards. [Is it not great that Fuzes are 'Green'?]"



Byte Magazine had an April ad for a Noise Emitting Diode. The symbol was a diode wearing a pair of earmuffs.


I looked that up. Interesting that it appears on page 369. The numbers from the famous N. Tesla quote.

Sadly we've lost such funs stuff in the modern era. Has anything been better than the Signetics Write-Only-Memory from long ago today?

https://dn760104.eu.archive.org/0/items/best_of_byte_volume_...


You forgot to add a link to the blog :)


It was not an oversight, however since you asked:

http://blog.softwaresafety.net/2013/04/magic-smoke-resistors...


MEPIC fuses... ok... Green? Oh my!




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