Laird Technologies Launches Enhanced AZTEC Thermoelectric Module Simulation Software

By DE Editors

Laird Technologies, Inc. has launched AZTEC, an online thermoelectric module (TEM) simulation software tool.

AZTEC is designed to select the optimal TEM(s) for trial from a given set of input variables based on application attributes that the user specifies. The program also contains an analysis worksheet, which simulates how the TEM(s) will function under a specific set of operating conditions.

“The product breadth of a TEM portfolio is very broad and it can be quite cumbersome for a thermal engineer to specify an optimal TEM based on a cross-comparison of datasheets,” says Andrew Dereka, Laird Technologies’ Thermoelectrics product manager. “AZTEC is a user-friendly tool that can speed up product development by running simulations on a TEM and seeing its expected output performance based on a given set of thermal and electrical operating points.” 

The interface offers users several options when selecting TEM parameters. The TEM Selection Tool uses input variables, such as heat load, ambient, and control temperatures, input voltage requirement, and thermal resistance of hot side heat exchanger to recommend TEM(s) needed to reach an application’s operating condition. The software has been updated with the latest TEM product offering from Laird Technologies.

The Analysis Worksheet Tool simulates the expected thermoelectric output parameters based on a given set of thermal and electrical operating points. Output parameters calculated are the hot and cold side temperatures of the TEM, heat pumped at the cold surface of the TEM, coefficient of performance (COP), and input power requirements. The total hot side heat dissipation is also calculated.

The Qc Estimating Worksheet calculates an estimate on the heat load for device (spot) or chamber (volume) cooling applications. Computations are made based on input provided by the user such as temperature requirements, volumetric dimensions, insulation thickness, material properties, and active heat load.

Available only online, the AZTEC tool is accessible from the Downloads tab located in the Thermoelectric Modules and Thermoelectric Assemblies (TEAs) sections of the Laird Technologies Website.

Registration is required for first-time users by completing and submitting the online form, and then following the software installation instructions.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.