hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Aisler Germany not shipping PCB - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ChrisSmall
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 27, 2022, 05:10:50 pm
content: Hello, anybody there that is waiting for PCB's produced by Aisler Germany GmbH? It has been weeks and I keep asking them but I never get anything back. I can't find a number to call. It is almost like that company disappeard.

author: janoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 27, 2022, 06:41:55 pm
content: Did you try to contact the support through the website or the forum?https://aisler.net/support/newThey have also e-mail and Twitter handle:hello@aisler.netTwitter: @AislerHQThey certainly are alive.The company is Dutch, not German, though. They have only a German subsidiary.

author: baldengineer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2022, 12:08:25 am
content: FWIW, today I received 4-layer boards from Germany.Last week, I received an email about the 4 boards (of my 3 board) order failing the "Smart Test."I emailed them on Wednesday asking for more information because I cannot see how my design would have failed manufacturing. (It's well within their stated capability.) One of the boards matches the report. The other two boards have WAY more shorts/faults than what the "Smart Test" reported. Also, none of the 3 boards match faults. The fourth board remains a mystery.I never received a response. The boards were shipped. The thin paper envelope was torn open and the unprotected boards were damaged. (they were only wrapped in plastic, no cushion.)Today, I sent another support request. Since, as one might imagine, I am not happy.Still waiting for any response.(This is my 2nd and last order with Aisler.)

author: ChrisSmall
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 28, 2022, 07:59:15 am
content: I found more information about this problem yesterday, many comments on wrongfully, damaged or lost deliveries.telling from that: When you reach someone they will be very nice and you will get store credit. But if you on their ignore list, you have bad luck and no one knows who they will answer to.Aisler says always use the webpage contact but I found so many complaints that they will not answer at all or delayed by weeks.Also the last google review is exactly my experience, they will get another one from me, well deserved...here is a link you find posts of a guy named Felix P. (Firma: AISLER B.V.) (aisler). What he always do is to ask to get a mail about the problem to felix@aisler.net you will get a automatic mail that refers to webpage contact but he will be able to read your mail.Unfortunately the site is plane German.https://www.mikrocontroller.net/topic/483895#new

author: janoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 29, 2022, 09:39:52 am
content: Quote from: ChrisSmall on June 28, 2022, 07:59:15 amThat is likely Felix Plitzko, the managing director.
Integration in LTspice (Voltage across inductor) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 26, 2022, 05:49:03 pm
content: Hi,I am trying to see if the following “sdt” function in LTspice will integrate the voltage across the secondary of the current sense transformer? AYK, It should integrate out to zero volts, but its rising away negative.Have i done the integration right?
Where to find Tango PCB (DOS) version >= 3.00 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: TheHungry
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 22, 2022, 09:01:18 pm
content: HiI needed software "Tango PCB (DOS)" version >= 3.00Where can find it .I have version 2.20 and 2.30 but i needed to open file created with version 3.08 .Someone help me to find it or download from somewhere .

author: mariush
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 22, 2022, 09:23:57 pm
content: I know it's not ideal, but have you considered looking for converters, to convert from Tango format to other formats?On a quick search, I found a Tango to Kicad converter, here's an Internet Archive link to the page from 2017, the download is archived and works :https://web.archive.org/web/20191022152746/https://www.purpleswift.com/Other/other.htmOn that page there's a mention of a software which can also convert the schematic to kicad format, here's a 2014 version of that page :https://web.archive.org/web/20140429061536/http://www.reniemarquet.cjb.net/ferramentas_en.htmlsadly internet archive didn't archive the tokicad archive.

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 22, 2022, 11:36:10 pm
content: I just downloaded a 650kB "Tango2KiCAD.zip" from:https://www.purpleswift.com/Free_Software.html(And then promptly deleted it again from my linux box).And according to oshpark there is also a tango -> Kicad written by Renie Marquethttps://docs.oshpark.com/design-tools/tango-dos/

author: TheHungry
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 23, 2022, 08:41:36 pm
content: Really both of the tools is not working with my files .The files is in Binary format not in ASCII format , i am converting it with tool included in Tango 2.4 and it convert files without errors .First Protel for windows support Tango files import and it open my converted to ASCII board , but have some issues with some components and track , this is may be caused from ASCII conversion or by some other .
Silkscreen over PTH  pad is OK? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2022, 10:51:31 am
content: Hi,I have a few silkscreen letters which i used for info only during layout......some lie over PTH pads which have no solder resist on them.....will this be OK?.....the Fab house will just "not print" those bits that are over non_solder_resist_covered_PTH_pads?

author: Feynman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2022, 11:20:58 am
content: No guarantee, but most fab shops will clip the silkscreen against the solder mask layer, yes.
PCB/PCBA mnuf. recommendations ? (high end) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: luudee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2022, 09:10:20 am
content: Looking for recommendations for PCB manufacturing and assembly houses in ASIA.Minimum capabilities should include:- 3 mil trace / 3 mil space- controlled impedance (Megtron-6)- 12 layers or more- uVias, Blind & Buried Vias- via back drilling (reliable!)- X-Ray capabilities- assembly of 0201 size components and very fine pitch BGAs (<0.4mm), top & bottom- Must offer small prototype runs (5 pieces), and small (100pcs) production runsMany Thanks !luudeePS: Would also be interested to hear from independent PCB layout guys who have their own Altium license.
4 Layer SMPS PCB....1 ounce copper on all layers? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2022, 06:14:26 pm
content: Hi,In days gone by, it was known that a 4 layer PCB with "1 ounce copper", would have 1 ounce copper on top and bottom layers....but the inner layers would be half ounce.Just been quoting on China PCB places, and it seems possible to have 1 ounce (or even 2 ounce), on all layers, and it doesnt mean big price increase.So has the old "less copper weight on inner layers" thing now dead?

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2022, 06:27:22 pm
content: I'm not sure if it ever existed.If you look at:https://www.eurocircuits.com/pcb-assembly-standard-pool/for example, they ave both 18um and 35um for inner layers in their default pools.There are also a lot of high-current PCB's being made, such as for example motor drivers for electric vehicles, and these fall outside of the the defaults.A bit more "normal" are PCB's for PC motherboards, and one Mobo manufacturer advertized with 70um for internal layers. The bigger PC processros can slurp up more then 100A, and that is quite a lot for a PCB to handle, and many of such PCB's are being made, and also have been made for lots of years.
Equalivent Chip having some confusion - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: SKHILLBILLYSlures
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 14, 2022, 05:59:39 pm
content: im having some confusion i was going to make a diy design for something i typically use while i'm gaming however the IC chip "SAF1761BELV9721.110 ZSD19516" is no longer in production would anyone happen to know at all an equalivent chip/an IC that with not much external components i can acheive the same thing?
Why 1.5mm via only rated to 7.48 Amps - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2022, 08:34:17 pm
content: Hi,The following via calculator...https://circuitcalculator.com/wordpress/2006/03/12/pcb-via-calculator/...shows a power dissipation of 30mW when carrying 12 Amps (for a via as follows..drill = 1.5mm diamBoard thickness = 1.6mm1 ounce copper......so why does it calculate that "Ampacity" is only 7.48 Amps?***Also, i am certain that a 4 layer board with 1 ounce copper , does not have 1 ounce copper in the via side walls, unless they are plated up with an extra process, which is very expensive.....do you concur?A standard 1 ounce copper board, would only have half ounce copper in the via walls...(unless plated up with the extra expensive plating process)

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2022, 09:57:45 pm
content: Read his comment on that page, he explains whyQuote

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2022, 10:29:03 pm
content: use SaturnPCB toolkit . and those 2221 curves are total bunk based on a flawed military empiric test.

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2022, 08:37:05 am
content: Thanks, it would be great if there was software that could upload a gerber file and tell what the trace resistance was from A to B?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2022, 08:46:55 pm
content: Quote from: Faringdon on June 16, 2022, 08:37:05 amthat exists. it is called a PDN analyser. CST makes that. you probably don't want to know what it costs though ...ZofZ has an experimental free one
Optimal dimensions for 0.1" spacing (eg, PCXT type ) edge connector pads? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cj7hawk
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 03, 2022, 11:09:51 am
content: Hi All,Is there a generally accepted optimal spacing for PCB edge connector pads, for 0.1" spacing type? Like the old XT ISA bus cards used.I've seen everything from 0.4"pads to 0.9" pads in this, but wondered if there was an optimal spacing when it comes to avoiding shorts due to ill-fitting connectors and mechanical misalignment and other common bad things that afflict such connectors.ThanksDavid.

author: eugene
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2022, 02:59:12 pm
content: Is there a recommendation in the datasheet for your chosen connector?

author: HwAoRrDk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2022, 03:19:43 pm
content: If it's ISA card edge connectors you're specifically interested in, the EISA specification (which includes ISA) recommends the following pad dimensions:0.062" / 1.575mm pad width, 0.3" / 7.62mm height.

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 01, 2022, 01:44:21 pm
content: Even though the pin spacing may be the same, that does not mean that the contacts for different connector should be the same.Older type connectors usually have a quite big clearance to manage bigger production tolerances. Other connectors may have double contacts for each pin and require wider fingers on the PCB while yet others may be optimized for HF applications and low capacitance.So the only right answer is to look it up in the datasheet of the connectors you are using.
madpcb.com "History of PCB Design" timeline - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Smokey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 24, 2022, 07:54:08 am
content: Not my site. Just stumbled on it. Lots of history of PCB design companies starting/dying/merging over the years. Not complete, but tons of info.https://madpcb.com/history-of-pcb-design/
Aluminium PCB design - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Chris Mr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2022, 08:59:49 am
content: When you specify an aluminium PCB is it only possible to do it as if it were a "solder side only"?It's just that for the board I want to do the tracks would be on the top surface (layer 2 / component side ?) and so text would be viewed the right way up.Never done one before and want to try it out but it's not obvious which way up it should be....

author: Chris Mr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2022, 09:33:51 am
content: I just found out after ages on a chat...It's the top layer that you use (at least at the one I tried). So .GTL .GTS .GTO and GKO

author: chris_leyson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2022, 09:59:15 am
content: I had a look at Aluminium IMS (Insulated Metal Substrate) at Beta Layout PCB Pool recently. One thing that they cannot do is electrically connect top copper to the aluminium substrate, for example you might want to use the substrate as a ground layer. Apparently they also offer double sided IMS PCBs but I don't think you can electrically connect to the substrate.

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2022, 10:54:20 am
content: See:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/grounding-aluminium-pcb-substrate/Its *possible* to ground the aluminum substrate, either as a rework operation, or by going up-market to a process that offers copper plating on the substrate, but its certainly not as simple as dropping vias to a ground plane anywhere you like on a multi-layer FR4 PCB.

author: tepalia02
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2022, 12:40:35 pm
content: Since you're working with aluminium PCB design, I think this video will be a good reference:https://www.pcbway.com/blog/PCB_Design_Tutorial/Aluminium_PCB_design_and_PCBA_service.htmlIt's regarding designing a circuit to control the temperature of an aluminium PCB. The language is not English. But the video is quite detailed and understandable.
J-STD-003 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: aduinstat
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2022, 10:19:12 pm
content: I have a requirement for it, but it does not seem to be a standard option. Vendor seemed confused when I asked.

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 06, 2022, 12:23:36 am
content: So do you have a question?This probably belongs under the Manufacturing & Assembly section, rather than PCB design.
would need help to convert Allegro BRD to ALG (Ascii)  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Fixup
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2022, 08:16:11 am
content: Hi,Asking for a favor.If anyone happens to have Allegro installed and could convert a BRD file to ALG (ascii).Even better if it was converted to Pads (.pcb) or Altium (.prjpcb) but I think I will manage to get that fixed if I first get the file to ALG (ascii).Thanks

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2022, 08:35:03 am
content: If you want to import it to Altium, then Altium has a procedure how to do it with the free version of Orcad.They call it How-To-Import-Allegro-BRD.pdf, just ask support to share it with you, together with a .bat file.
Adding Electrolytic Capacitors in Micro-Cap 12 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Question Mark
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 04, 2022, 02:29:55 pm
content: Hello everyone,Warning: I'm a neophyte at electronics and CAD...Does anyone know how to import spice component models into Micro-Cap? It would seem that many type of CAD formats are available, but none specific to MC12; does this matter?Also, I would like to properly represent electrolytic capacitors in the schematic, both for the visual clarity and for the problems associated with them. Are there specific properties that make these capacitors what they are apart from series/parallel resistance/inductance? Is it even possible to simulate the reverse voltage problems?Thank you for your help.

author: SiliconWizard
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2022, 08:35:05 pm
content: Creating parts from Spice models is pretty easy (but finding the menu items is a bit less so without reading the manual.)Menu: Windows/Component Editor...Then the easiest way is to click on the "Add Part Wizard" icon in the toolbar.From your question, possibly you already knew that, and are wondering what format you need to use when asked for the model?For a Spice model, select "Subckt", then select the Spice model file. Then it will ask for the subcircuit name, and for the symbol you want to associate it with, using the spice order for the pin numbering.As to electrolytic caps, what exact problem would you like to simulate? I think you'd have to come up with your own model for this.
LED Indicator-Li-Ion charger - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Lrv209
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2022, 08:38:12 am
content: Hi everyone,I am preparing a schematic for a PCB I will have made for charging a Li-Ion battery and am hoping someone can advise on a part I am trying to find. My PCB circuit will have 2 LED - one for Charging and one for Charged and will be mounted in a fully enclosed housing. Power to the board will be via a micro USB available via a panel it will be mounted through in the side of the housing. While I have all the surface area I need I am also trying to keep the overall thickness of the PCB to below 3.6mm (and the Housing to 4mm thickness) by using the Micro USB and a 0.8mm thick board. I also am hoping to mount the 2 LED on the PCB and through holes in the vertical panel the USB will be mounted through. They are only indicators and could be omitted but I am hoping there is a product out there that someone knows of that will fit in my small space. I am sure I have seen some tiny <1mm LED at some time but cant find anything like that in my searches of Mouser, Digikey and others. Of course I could be using the wrong search criteria or maybe they just dont exist and I imagined I have seen them.If anyone can give me a link to a suitable part or any comments on the availability of such a part that would be much appreciated. I have seen SMD LED parts which would at least provide the indication required but then they would be behind the panel unless there is some clever way to mount them at right angles to the board surface??Hope someone can advise so i can either forget about the indicators or find a solution.Cheers

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2022, 08:55:25 am
content: Perhaps a right-angle light pipe?Quotehttps://vcclite.com/product-category/lightpipes/lpbmral/

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2022, 09:02:31 am
content: Side emitting or back emitting LED's, so you can either view through the side, or have them on the same side of the PCB as the other components, and thus no added height, just a hole through the PCB to an appropriate spot in the case, or a transparent, or translucent, case.
How do I know what to put in for rules in the Altium Designer? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: matrixofdynamism
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2022, 12:13:27 am
content: The Altium Designer program has a very large set of rules that a person can specify for the PCB design process. So far I havenotbeen able to find any type of "standard" rules file that I can import into the program. How does one know what rules to specify in the program? There are quite a LOT of rules to be specified in there. Also, if I am tampering with the rules, how can I put them back to the value that they were when I installed the program?

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 26, 2022, 01:02:14 pm
content: Start by reading the docs which gives some examples and covers the processhttps://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/pcb-design-rule-typeshttps://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/defining-scoping-managing-pcb-design-rulesRules are stored against a design, so no big worry about putting them back to installation defaults. There are also options to export and import rules if you want to make a backup, or duplicate rules from one design into another.The initial set of rules will be related to capabilities of your choice of PCB fabricator. Some PCB fabs will provide a set of starting rules...https://www.eurocircuits.com/altium-designer-templates-with-eurocircuits-design-rules/https://support.jlcpcb.com/article/42-how-to-export-altium-pcb-to-gerber-fileshttps://docs.oshpark.com/design-tools/altium-designer/Rules beyond that will depend on your design requirements, such as isolation distances between certain traces in a high voltage design, or for signal integrity if you are doing a high speed design.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2022, 03:13:22 pm
content: I mean, standard is whatever your in-house standard is. (Great thing about standards, there are so many?) The PCB template starts with a basic set of defaults, though there are some changes you'll normally like to do for most designs.That said, here's more or less the common set I use:Tim
What is the difference between "Port" & "Off Sheet Connector" in Altium? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: matrixofdynamism
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2022, 01:02:21 pm
content: This question is related to Altium Designer 21.When doing schematic design in the Altium Designer, the Place menu contains these entires shown in the attached image.The 'Port' and 'Off Sheet Connector' can both be used to cross reference things on other pages of the schematic. This much is clear. However, I am trying to figure out these things:1. What is the difference between the two? i.e How to know which one to use at a given time?2. Can't we just use net name from another sheet and they will still connect thus not needing the use of either of the above tools?So far I have seen schematics that just rely on net name for cross referencing. I have also seen some schematics that use the two methods that this questions is related to.I have found that Altium Designer has a concept of hierarchical schematic design. However, I am not referring to that in this specific question. Maybe the above symbols are also used for hierarchical design, I am not sure.

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2022, 06:41:40 pm
content: Off sheet connectors are "global" and supposed to have only 1 name.Ports are "local" and if you place a schematic symbol, they appear on it. So you could have 5 ports named "output" on five different sheets, and they are not connected together, if you place the five sheet symbols.I never really use Off sheet connectors.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2022, 07:29:14 pm
content: With Net Labels, all three connect globally in flat designs. Semantically speaking -- take your pick.I typically use OSC in flat designs, as a clearer visual indication that the net will be seen on other sheets.The most common visual language when using labels, is a stub of wire sticking out, with the label on that. Basically as a OSC but the label is on the wire instead of extending from it, and there's no arrow or eye-catching coloring.Of course, this style is not required, so, you are still forced to stare at a stack ofhaysheets, matching up net names, in case they might be used this way after all. It's unfortunately easy to use net labels this way.As mentioned, ports connect in the same way in a flat project, so are just a different visual language. Personally, I prefer them to indicate hierarchical sheet connections. Hence I use OSC when flat, and ports when hierarchical.Note that, unless specified in project options, power ports are still global, so behave the way nets/OSCs do in a flat design. If you select strict, you need to carry power through every sheet symbol, something of a PITA, but can be worth the trouble.Tim
Hand Drawn PCB template - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: graybeard
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 08, 2022, 01:26:06 am
content: I was at my local stationary store today and I came across this 2:1 template for hand drawn PCBs.

author: tepalia02
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2022, 10:23:40 am
content: Thanks a lot. Earlier I came across some tutorials on Home-made PCBs like this :https://pcbtracks.com/how-to-manufacture-pcb-at-home/It's a pleasure to see these templates for making the work easier.

author: TimFox
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2022, 01:40:03 pm
content: I still have schematic symbols, geometric figures (circles, ellipses, polygons), and other useful templates, most from that company.Note that there is a finite pencil-width allowance when using them.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2022, 02:10:50 pm
content: bischop graphics, rotring, decon-dalo , meca dry transfers. smells like 1970.

author: srb1954
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 26, 2022, 02:14:36 am
content: Quote from: graybeard on January 08, 2022, 01:26:06 amI would say that this has been sitting on their shelf for more than 40 years. I used to use a stencil like that for doing initial component placement sketches for hand PCB layout way back in the 1970'sThere is no practical use for such items in today's world where powerful PCB CAD programs are readily available. I think they might have to mark down quite a bit more if they want to sell it.
NXP BGA Layout - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mtechmatt
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2022, 11:49:49 am
content: Hi All,We had an engineer convert our QFP layout to BGA due to MCU shortage, and now, we have lots of noise on the ADC, USB etc. Heres a screen shot of the MCU - Im worried about the netting of the 3v3 and gnds etc - thin traces etc - what is right/wrong here - how would you guys get stable power and ground into this device?

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2022, 03:18:47 pm
content: - Where are the bypass capacitors?- Split ground is a big no- Why no ground and power planes?I'd start by having 1 single ground plane and put power bypass capacitors under the BGA if this is a board with components on both sides. Otherwise put the bypass cap. as close to the BGA as possible.edit: typo

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2022, 09:10:24 pm
content: Yeah as nctnico said, very odd layout.Agnd and Mcugnd going off where, why is there not a ground plane that they drop directly to with a via.It looks like at least 4 layer board, wonder what the layers are even being used for.What is the part number?
Modular design and ground splitting - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: RawCode
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2022, 03:03:42 pm
content: Hello everyone.I need some advice.I want to build a mixed-signal circuit, and I'm thinking to use a modular design approach, i.e., having different PCBs that perform different things, interconnected between them via cables.This system should have a digital board where the microcontroller, ADCs, DACs, display and some buttons are located, and several analog boards (say 2) where signal processing is involved.I would like a modular design for this project because if there is a need for a change in one portion of the circuit, I have only to swap the old PCB with the new one instead of having to redesign the whole PCB.I studied a bit about EMI and related stuff and I also watched the recent videos of Robert Feranec about this topic.In particular, in a video where he talked about ground in PCBs, its cohost, Rick Hartley, said that splitting grounds between analog and digital portion of the circuit can be dangerous and usually a potential source of EMI problems.Now, considering that I'm not a very experienced engineer in this topic, how should I arrange this modular design to minimize this sort of problem?Is the modular approach a bad idea?Thanks

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2022, 09:30:07 pm
content: Its a good idea if you are looking to reuse any portion of your project.Its quite common to have a display board with buttons, micro, LCD, etc. on it.Just be aware what you are transmitting and whats coming back, eg having high speed digital going to the analog board and a low level analog signal coming back is not going to be ideal.But if you just have digital signals going to the analog board, and the board is well laid out, most likely there will be no issues.You can post your schematic or block diagram here, or in the projects forum, so its more clear what you are trying to do.

author: penfold
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2022, 10:32:27 pm
content: In agreement with the post above.If you plan to attach the modules to some metalwork, chassis, metal box, etc, just be wary of connecting the screw holes in the PCB to 0V, least maybe not directly - leaving an 0805 footprint available for solder-blob (or 0-ohm link if feeling fancy), Y-capacitor or just disconnected can give you a quick opportunity to solve a possible problem that may or not exist quite cheaply.
Request to new LEVEL1 TOPIC==> SPICE - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: PKTKS
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2021, 04:09:04 pm
content: Wondering why there is no LEVEL1 TOPIC for dedicated SPICE ?which can and should contain variants... LTSPICE etc...Why nobody setup a dedicated SPICE TOPIC yet... ?Paul

author: Warhawk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2021, 04:56:42 pm
content: I just came here to say it is a good idea.

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2021, 06:50:47 pm
content: IMHO there aren't enough SPICE related topics (other than when simulations of specific circuits crop up in other topics) to justify a top-level SPICE forum, and certainly not to justify subforums within it. You might as well add a top level Photography forum because users frequently attach photos to their posts!OTOH a second level SPICE and other circuit simulation, (not MCU/MPU simulation) forum under EDA would be a useful addition.

author: PKTKS
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2021, 07:50:24 am
content: I mean first level under EDA. Not top level.SPICE per si contains several variants and extense topics ...Example: How do you model your tranformer...A SPICE TOPIC UNDER EDA...Paul

author: PKTKS
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2021, 03:02:23 pm
content: But I was wondering that as of today wide spread variants...There are indeed some issues that can be enlisted ina full HEADER TOPIC (LEVEL-0)...in this case I would call it "SIMULATION" and let SPICEas a subtopic branch..Fast thinking..:- SPICE- MODELS- PSPICE- ISIS- LTSPICE- MicroCAP- Convergence- contributed templates and models..etc etc etc... for other simulators and GUIs..We do have a full list of interesting branches...Wondering why not implemented alreadyand sparse topics would be moved as needed or spottedPaul

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2022, 12:13:23 pm
content: I'm attempting to use Micro-Cap SPICE and thought I would check hear to see if anyone had started a dedicated thread for it. Using the search, it doesn't appear there is one.I wonder if the topic would be even less popular than cooking.

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2022, 04:44:34 pm
content: I think that's why they proposed to have various subsections.
[OrCAD] BOM Variants, alternate parts not just fitted/not-fitted - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Pack34
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2022, 07:22:19 pm
content: I've done fitted and not fitted parts using the part manager but is it possible to use a different part as an alternate?For example, I have an ASIC with Refdes U34 that's tied database part 12345, I would like to use database part 12346 as an alternate if the original 12345 is out of stock.A practical example of this would be using a lesser voltage rated capacitor that's within spec for this design but not necessarily valid for all designs that use the original 12345 part. Another example would be for different temperature rated parts such as commercial grade versus industrial.I'm trying to avoid modifying the original database part 12345 to add the manufacturer part number for 12346.Is this possible in OrCAD? Or would this be one of those use cases where you really need to modify the BOM after export?

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2022, 08:06:03 pm
content: Quote from: Pack34 on February 23, 2022, 07:22:19 pmYou can. You have to create a sub-group and then you can have a different part from the database in each subgroup.Code:groups-> asic_group-> asic1-> asic2And then assign asic1 to a bom variant and asic2 to another bom variant.
Simulation of PCB resistance/impedance - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: magic
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2022, 03:05:21 pm
content: I suspect that nothing fitting a reasonable hobby budget exists, but anyway...I wonder if there are tools for solving things like potential gradients and current density on real world PCB layouts of the sort that would give you headache trying to replace them with lumped components - ground planes, planes with holes and cuts, pours, tracks with more width than length or with variable width, that sort of stuff.Some sort of brute force finite element analysis or similar method. Feed the PCB design files in, get the heatmaps out.I see some mentions of high end CAD packages supporting such analyses for high speed digital and RF, but frankly, even DC resistance could be useful.

author: mawyatt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2022, 03:55:40 pm
content: There are some simulators that support this kind of analysis, most are mesh based finite analysis types. We used them for our chips designs, recall they were expensive and under the Cadence Frameworks.Edit: There was a "Back Annotate" mode where one would bring back into the simulations the various Rs and Cs from the layout, some times even the Ls. These back annotation parameters were setup with limits on how fine the "granularity" to try and keep the simulation times within reason.IBM had developed Thermal models for devices in the SiGe processes that included 1st and 2nd order effects, vaguely remember proximity parameters as well. These influenced both DC, AC and Transient Analysis results, and were quite involved, requiring enormous amounts of computing power.Back in the 80~90s we created a number of SPICE based Thermal models for specific devices, that worked in DC and Transient Analysis modes. Much later we were allowed to publish something on this in EDN.https://www.edn.com/edn-access-08-18-94-spice-runs-thermal-analysi/Best,

author: pointhi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2022, 04:37:09 pm
content: There is some intial code for KiCad to add DC power integrity simulation. See this branch:https://gitlab.com/pointhi/kicad/-/tree/sparselizard_fem. There is also a bit of documentation how you can build it locally:https://gitlab.com/pointhi/kicad/-/wikis/Sparselizard-branchSee this talk for some additional insights:https://fosdem.org/2022/schedule/event/advanced_sim/
ODB++ sample files - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Lukas
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2020, 11:09:46 pm
content: Hello Everyone,I've getting requests to add ODB++ export to Horizon EDA (seehttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/eda/horizon-eda-version-1-0/new/!) mainly for export to SI/PI analysis software that can only read ODB++. Fortunately, the ODB++ specification is publicly available these days:https://www.odb-sa.com/wp-content/uploads/ODB_Format_Description_v7.pdfNot as straight forward as gerber, but appears to be doable. The Valor ODB++ viewer is also available free of charge. The only thing missing are some ODB++ sample files since learning by example works quite well. Unfortunately I haven't been able to find any ODB++ board files for download on the internet (e.g. eval boards).Since quite a few altium users seem to hang out here, could someone export a small project to ODB++ and post the archive? Doesn't need to be complex, but should contain all the usual stuff like packages, tracks, filled areas, etc.ThanksLukas

author: tycz
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2020, 02:31:52 am
content: You could download either Diptrace or Pulsonix trial versions. They can both output ODB++ format and come with example projects.

author: Gribo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2020, 07:52:37 pm
content: You should download version 8 of the specifications from Mentor Graphics.

author: Lukas
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2020, 09:40:15 pm
content: I found out about the version 8 spec as well shortly after posting.QuoteThanks for the suggestion, the pulsonix trial works as intended.

author: Lukas
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 15, 2022, 08:46:15 am
content: I checked the ODB++ homepage the other day and looks like they just recently added an ODB++ 8.1 sample file:https://odbplusplus.com/design/our-resources/
Flatcam question about replacing gerber files within a project. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cvriv
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2022, 09:38:14 pm
content: I'm really liking Flatcam now that I'm getting the to know the in's and out's of this program. It's very useful but but it really lacks in my opinion, but you can't beat free.After adding all my gerber and excellon files, I moved everything to origin as a whole so everything is right where it should be. If I should delete and add a newer updated version of one of those files and then move it to origin, it's not where it should be at origin. I kind of have to move it manually into position and I dont know if thats the exact position its suppose to be. The program makes me feel like im eye-balling it.Is there another better way to do this? I have been deleting all the files and moving them as a whole to origin if I have to replace a file. that sucks considering Ive done all the routing etc.Thanks.
Design and Simulation Software - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Xenos
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2022, 10:54:52 pm
content: I am getting back into tinkering with electronics after taking a 15+ year break. In the early 2000s, I purchased a very comprehensive program that I used for designing and testing circuits, but I cannot remember what it was called for the life of me. I remember I had to install several individual software packages for different components. It had a drag-and-drop interface that looked similar to a 2D schematic. I looked through the list of programs on the sticky and visited the websites, but nothing rings like that old program. Unfortunately, I do not have access to the computers I used it on, nor the purchase history of the program. As such, I am searching for a replacement. What do you find is an easy-to-pick-up circuit design and emulation program? I am rusty at electronics, so the easier, the better. Thanks in advance!

author: RoGeorge
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2022, 11:07:03 pm
content: You may want to try LTspice, probably the most used now, it's free for non-commercial use.https://www.analog.com/en/design-center/design-tools-and-calculators/ltspice-simulator.htmlThere are many other simulators (also free):https://www.eevblog.com/forum/eda/qucs-qucs-s-and-qucsstudio-simulators-are-not-the-same-thing/For PCB design, try KiCAD, same price.https://www.kicad.org/All of the above have plenty of online tutorials and documentation.

author: Xenos
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2022, 11:41:19 pm
content: Thank you, RoGeorge. I downloaded and ran Micro-Cap 12, LT-Spice XVII, and Qucs Studio. So far (based on user interface alone and not functionality because I have not used them enough to compare), I like QucsStudio above the others. Thank you for the tips!

author: RoGeorge
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2022, 08:41:26 am
content: Welcome back to electronics, and happy tinkering!
Recommended CAD/Modeling Package for Induction Motor Design? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bobthedespot
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 03, 2022, 02:01:30 pm
content: Hi all,I'm looking for a good software suite to design an induction motor, preferably free/open source.Any recommendations?thanks,bob

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2022, 02:16:47 pm
content: comsol magnetics , openfoam and simscale, elmer
Measure OIP3 performance with LTspice - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: szszjdb
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2021, 09:57:31 am
content: Dear All,Is it possible to measure OIP3 performance of an amplifier with LTspice? How is the procedure?Attached the circuit ,FYI.Best Regards,James

author: szszjdb
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2021, 02:18:06 am
content: Dear All,Does someone could give some advice?Best Regards!James?

author: rfclown
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2022, 03:02:34 am
content: I assume no one responded because there is not a straight forward procedure to measure OIP3. I suppose you'd have to do an FFT of the output waveform to see the level of the IM3 products.

author: mawyatt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2022, 01:49:15 pm
content: The two tone IMD is probably the simplest method, another method we used in early versions of Cadence was to sweep the input power and plot the fundamental vs the 3rd harmonic. Both methods however require an FFT, the first just a single FFT and the later many.Remember doing both awhile back to get some idea of what to expect with actual hardware, one such circuit had some unique properties like gain expansion rather than compression at higher input levels.Best,
My first PCB [schematic] - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: lscw
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2021, 11:12:46 pm
content: A little while ago I bought a no-name soldering station from a Chinese Amazon distributor that arrived unfit for purpose and downright dangerous, so great opportunity to make my very first PCB. Having never created a thing before for which some proto-board would not suffice.I have attached the schematic, I would really appreciate any feedback on the circuitry, or indeed schematic design, before I proceed to lay it out on PCB. It's my first "proper" schematic design I've attempted as well (i.e. one I would want to be proud of).Most of the circuit is taken straight from the original board wherever it appears safe and sane although I've replaced the original no-name micro with a PIC18 and 7seg display driver to save on traces. Both the '12V power rail' and relay are my addition and repurposed the on/off switches to allow the transformer to be disconnected when not in use.The original board had the primary hardwired to the mains input and the transformer gets a bit too hot if left connected. I wonder if there's anything more that can be done to prevent that?Edit to add I missed some part names (7805, 1n4007 etc) but not sure what value most of the caps should be. I will try to remove and measure the 0805s, not sure if I'll effect their values much in the process.

author: LazyJack
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2022, 09:57:23 pm
content: D14, D15 in the 5V section should be the other way around.
Cost Optimization - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Munyua44
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2022, 09:10:40 am
content: Am carrying out a PCB design in KiCAD EDA. After design am thinking of doing the cost optimization to know how much the PCB will cost me if manufacturing was done. Anyone of you who can guide me on how i can carry out the cost optimization?thanks!

author: Smokey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2022, 09:46:06 am
content: Just the bare boards, or the completed assemblies? How many are you making?
Nice tool for comapring gerbers - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: AnasMalas
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2022, 12:20:28 pm
content: Hello! I finally submitted my very first PCB to JLCPCB, and they came back with a production file. I wanted to make sure they didnt make major changes (their online viewer is awful! it made everything look shorted out). and I found a website that I though someone here would appreciate.Note: comparing JLC production files didnt work out, as it loads both the JLC files and the originals, but I cant get it to see them as the same layerWebsite:https://gerbercompare.com/*I am not affiliated with this website or know it or anyone working on it from before.
LTspice race condition in JK flip flop - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2021, 10:20:12 pm
content: Hi,I am getting race condition problems in the LTspice sim of a Toggle type JK Flip flop as attached.Do you know the best way to avoid this?

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2021, 11:26:10 pm
content: Quote from: Faringdon on December 23, 2021, 10:20:12 pmfor some reason FF in ltspice have zero delayright click and add something like Td=1ns to the "spiceline"

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2021, 11:59:15 pm
content: He's already done that but has Tripdt set too high.However you cant make a JK flipflop that way as that circuit is gated, not clocked. Therefore the outputs keep toggling as fast as they can so long as the gate is active (low). To fix this and make it edge triggered, so it toggles ONCE per clock cycle, you need a master-slave flipflop pair. Seehttps://www.falstad.com/circuit/e-jkff.html

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2021, 11:57:54 am
content: QuoteThanks, i did this, and i still have race condition, sorry i must have done something wrong...as attached

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2021, 02:33:45 pm
content: As LTspice logic A devices don't respect the.tran startupmodifier, even though their outputs act as sources, and don't have a Vcc supply pin, so cant be powered from a source that does, the two NAND SR latches start in a race condition, acting as metastable ring oscillators. This is a simulation artifact due to SPICE quantizing the signals in the time domain and ideally matched components. In real life such latches are vanishingly unlikely to oscillate for many cycles after powerup as even on the same die the propagation delays will vary slightly. Break the race condition by altering the propagation delay of one of the gates in each latch slightly, (by min. 1x Tripdt). N.B. it may still glitch during the first full clock cycle.I've redrawn the schematic for clarity, with net labels (for ease of probing), with all gate propagation delays and risetimes visible (N.B. Tfall defaults to Trise if not set) and with separate sources for the J and K inputs, and removed your explicit grounds as the A device gates default to using global node 0 (GND), so you only need to connect their ground pin if you need them referenced to another net.All gates have their hidden parameters set as:Code:Vhigh=3.3 Vlow=0 Ref=1.5Tripdt=5nI applied the above propagation delay offset fix and it no longer oscillates.