The Critical Lowdown

EPS Global

The Critical Lowdown is a technology podcast from the team at EPS Global. Each episode will give you access to industry experts, and step beyond the anecdotes to see how new technologies, chip shortages, and an ever-changing security landscape affects you and the projects you're rolling out. Over the course of this series, we are going to bring you interviews, explainers, and valuable insights on topics ranging from traditional and open networking, to electronics manufacturing and IoT security.

  1. Optimizing Production Lines: Offline Programming vs. In-Circuit Testing

    2月12日

    Optimizing Production Lines: Offline Programming vs. In-Circuit Testing

    In this episode of The Critical Lowdown, host Ciara sits down with Colin Lynch, CEO of EPS Global, to explore the critical role of chip programming in modern electronics manufacturing. As production lines face increasing pressure to optimize throughput and reduce costs, the choice between offline programming and in-circuit testing (ICT) has become a pivotal decision for manufacturers. Colin breaks down the fundamental differences between these two approaches, explaining how offline programming can significantly reduce test time, improve efficiency, and lower costs. He shares real-world examples, including a case study from a GSM base station manufacturer in Romania, where EPS Global’s solution increased production by 50 units per shift. The conversation also delves into the challenges of adding security to chips, the role of Hardware Security Modules (HSMs), and why offline programming is often a more reliable option in regions with unstable internet connectivity. Colin outlines the advantages of outsourcing programming to EPS Global, from cost savings and scalability to resilience and redundancy. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a manufacturing professional, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes processes that power the devices we use every day, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of electronics production. Tune in to learn how EPS Global is helping manufacturers stay ahead in an increasingly competitive industry.

    12 分鐘
  2. Simple, Sustainable, Open | In Conversation with Andy Howard from Smartoptics

    1月22日

    Simple, Sustainable, Open | In Conversation with Andy Howard from Smartoptics

    In this episode, Ciara sits down with Andy Howard, Sales Director at Smart Optics, to explore the world of open optical networking and the innovative solutions driving the industry forward. Andy shares the fascinating journey of Smart Optics, from its beginnings in 2006 as a transceiver company to becoming a leader in open optical networking. They discuss the company’s key customer segments, including enterprises, data centers, and service providers, and how Smart Optics is solving challenges like data center interconnects, mobile backhaul, and fiber-to-the-home deployments. Andy highlights the simplicity and flexibility of their solutions, including their plug-and-play systems and the growing adoption of ROADMs (Reconfigurable Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers) for national and regional networks. The conversation also dives into the future of optical networking, with a focus on 800G technology, sustainability, and the benefits of open, disaggregated systems. Andy explains how Smart Optics is leading the charge in open networking, working alongside partners like IP Infusion, Edgecore, and UfiSpace to create flexible, cost-effective solutions without hidden fees. Looking ahead to 2025, Andy shares his optimism for the industry, emphasizing Smart Optics’ investments in innovation and staffing during a challenging 2024. With pent-up demand expected to drive growth, the company is poised to deliver cutting-edge solutions for the evolving needs of telcos, ISPs, and enterprises. Tune in to hear how Smart Optics is shaping the future of optical networking with simplicity, sustainability, and openness at its core!

    11 分鐘

簡介

The Critical Lowdown is a technology podcast from the team at EPS Global. Each episode will give you access to industry experts, and step beyond the anecdotes to see how new technologies, chip shortages, and an ever-changing security landscape affects you and the projects you're rolling out. Over the course of this series, we are going to bring you interviews, explainers, and valuable insights on topics ranging from traditional and open networking, to electronics manufacturing and IoT security.