Obscure Research Blog January Archive

Exploding/Magic Smoke Resistors now available off-the-shelf

Vishay has come out with a new product line known as the Electro-Pyrotechnic Initiator Chip Resistor (EPIC), that is designed to go up in flames.

" Vishay's New Electro-Pyrotechnic Initiator Chip Resistor is Industry's First to Offer Joule Effect Ignition For Fast Firing Times Down to 50 microseconds, and a No Fire/All Fire Ratio up to 70%

These devices are used in military applications for pilot ejection systems, explosive bolt disengagement of airbone missiles, chaff dispensers, artillery projectile activators, anti-tank mines, etc. Commercially, they are used in mining and de-constructions applications."

Think of the fun the people at Hack A Day or Make Magazine could have with some these.

Anyone that has been around electronic devices for any length of time know that when the devices fail they tend to go up in smoke, leading to the idea that electronic parts are run by Magic Smoke, this part proves that idea.