hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Alarm signal through mains wiring. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2012, 01:28:38 pm
content: Someone asked me if it is possible to put a buzzer on a room thermostat that is away (~20 meters) from the burner. Wireless/cable is not possible.I have seen systems that transfer signals through mains wires (intercoms etc). What is the method used to couple a high frequency signal on mains wiring and detect to the other side? A UART<->mains transceiver would be great.Alexander.

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2012, 02:02:53 pm
content: Good read:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_line_communication

author: PA0PBZ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2012, 02:05:30 pm
content: I think it's called X10

author: NiHaoMike
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2012, 02:11:13 pm
content: If there's already a wired connection between the burner and thermostat, wouldn't it be easier and more reliable to just send a high frequency carrier on the lines? It could be as simple as an inductor in series with the thermostat and a highpass filtered piezo buzzer along with a similar inductor (if needed) and high frequency tone generator at the burner.
Ever worry if your variac is Y2K safe? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: poodyp
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 08:02:06 am
content: Get this one and never worry again.

author: Ed.Kloonk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 08:09:49 am
content: Never mind Y2K. The so-called "parts not working" will reanimate itself on Dec 21 and join the robot apocalypse.

author: M. András
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 09:25:00 am
content: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2070791/they did invent a machine which prohibited electricity in its range later on the goverment made a bigger and the whole world were left without powercould happen any time now

author: TerraHertz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 09:59:38 am
content: They probably have a huge overstock of those 'Y2K Ready' stickers because the machine printing them wasn't Y2K ready, broke down, then was finally sorted out some time _after_ Y2K.

author: jh15
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 05:43:55 am
content: Gads! Almost 200 dollars, and 81.00 shipping for a not possibly working device.I will now respect the worth of my similar 5 amp unit. I seem to use it mostly as a portable switch hehe.

author: NiHaoMike
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 06:25:22 am
content: Quote from: M. András on December 10, 2012, 09:25:00 amWhat would actually happen if such a device were to be built: without the pull of the electrons towards the nuclei of the atoms, the electrons would simply fly away and matter would cease to exist. And physics would be broken in all sorts of unexpected ways.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 03:28:34 pm
content: Then you would have Larry Niven's "Slaver Disintegrator". Not a good idea to be in front of it, or anywhere in the immediate vicinity. A light year or ten should be safe enough.

author: ciccio
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2012, 01:49:25 pm
content: I don't understand that seller's politics: every item is "for parts or not working" but then they put, down the page, a disclaimer saying that this is not, or maybe is not, true..... Maybe the part works.....Some objects have a Certificate of Calibration, released by the seller himself, meaning that, at least, they have (or should have) switched it on, so how can it be "not working"?I really do not understand the meaning (or the usefulness) of a Calibration Certificate for a BK isolation transformer, but this is another story.Best regards
Missing part: MCZ5203 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kodon
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2012, 11:08:09 am
content: Hello everyone,I'm repairing a Panasonic LCD television and it seems that the PSU is busted. My investigations tell's me that one of the IC's is broken.Part number: MCZ5203D and it's manufactured by Shindengen electric. I could also use the SMT version MCZ5203SE.I've googled around and I found that Mitsubishi and Sony also uses that chip, so if you have an idea where to but that IC: please give me a heads up!Br.kodon
2 Higgs Bosons One Ordinary And Another More Exostotic  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Sionyn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2012, 12:24:47 am
content: News from CERN about more results in the search for the Higgs Boson, this time from the ATLAS experiment.Researchers report peaks in the data in accordance with what they'd expect from the Higgs.The curiosity is that the peaks are a couple GeV away from each other. "The ATLAS analyses in these channels return the best fit Higgs masses that differ by more than 3 GeV: 123.5 GeV for ZZ and 126.6 GeV for gamma-gamma, which is much more than the estimated resolution of about 1 GeV. The tension between these 2 results is estimated to be 2.7sigma.http://www.resonaances.blogspot.it/2012/12/twin-peaks-in-atlas.html

author: Noize
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2012, 12:42:27 am
content: The exotic one equates to more taxpayers money. I'm sure there is an elegant equation there somewhere.
Can these two cases cause static charge build up? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: onemilimeter
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 16, 2012, 01:44:36 am
content: Just watched the EEVBLOG #247 video. It's very nice video. However, I still don't quite understand the theory/concept behind ESD... Let's say there are two bags, denoted as Bag-A (which is non-antistatic) and Bag-B (which is antistatic, e.g. the pink bag shown in the video).(1) If both bags are rubbed together, will charge build up on BOTH bags?(2) If Bag-A rubs against itself, will charge build up on Bag-A?Thanks.
Daveland Pwns Anti-Vaccination Idiots - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Sionyn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 05:11:02 pm
content: http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/minister-orders-anti-vaccination-group-to-change-its-name/story-e6frf7kx-1226537155195

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 05:22:16 pm
content: No doubt this will bring out the conspiracy nuts.

author: PeterG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 08:36:00 pm
content: I find it disturbing such a group got its name in the media.Regards
Tektronix 2445A - glitches - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 02:19:01 pm
content: I just bought a used Tektronix 2445A oscilloscope to replace my crappy analog scope. It seems to be in great condition, but I was wondering about a certain problem. On the on-screen readouts, some characters (notably O and Q) are missing pixels, and on the trigger frequency display, the "z" in "Hz" is missing (yesterday it was blinking, now it's gone). Should I consider this a sign that there is a ROM/RAM/something about to fail, or just something that needs to be reseated? And if it does fail, how far up the proverbial creek will I be regarding replacement? The service manual has very extensive troubleshooting guides, but none of them mention something like this.

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 08:16:51 pm
content: Hmm... Shortly after I posted this it started going crazy. Error messages all over the shop and a garbled readout. I used the "screw troubleshooting" method and completely disassembled and reassembled the entire scope. Works great now.
Test meters used by the professionals. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: G7PSK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 09:45:53 pm
content: I had to get a replacement light switch today for the bathroom, I went into a local supplier who are also electrical contractors and now also solar power installers, so I picked up one of their flyers.It was not until I got home that I noticed the test meter in the photograph, which pictures the owner of the business himself, Tony drake. Whatever it is it certainly does not look like a fluke more like £2.99 cheapo.

author: ModemHead
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 11:05:58 pm
content: Analog Battery Tester - 13 Position

author: IanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 11:12:02 pm
content: That's OK because he's not actually measuring anything...

author: Achilles
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 11:37:55 pm
content: Quote from: IanB on December 10, 2012, 11:12:02 pm....well, at least let's hope so.........marketing and posing for the photographer. It's probably sth. out of the toolbag he just grabbed for a quick photo..... or maybe he didn't want to violate Fluke's copyright or be safe or whatever.....

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 11:38:08 pm
content: Quote from: IanB on December 10, 2012, 11:12:02 pm*snort*Dave.

author: george graves
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 03:18:04 am
content: Double fail.Quote from: G7PSK on December 10, 2012, 09:45:53 pmIt took me all of 2 seconds to realize that the pic is a stock image. It's not the owner of the company. It's just a picture of some dude that the graphic artist downloaded - and photo-shopped their logo on.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 05:04:29 am
content: *snort* At least the graphic designer could be more ingenius, surely one can't measure a HV PV cells with a battery tester

author: poodyp
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 06:23:37 am
content: Or by just jamming leads into the gaps between the frame.

author: jh15
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 05:19:27 am
content: Doesn't have osha safety probes either...

author: ftransform
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 10:59:03 am
content: thats what happens if you get high at work and the supervisor walks by. grab the first thing in your toolbag and look busy."just stay cool man he does not know the difference common just stay cool"at least he is not using that meter at a substation right?
New Laptop Cooler Will Possibly Replace The Fan - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: SgtRock
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 03:59:12 am
content: Greetings EEVBees:--Interesting replacement for the laptop fan.http://www.theregister.co.uk/2012/12/12/ge_lungs_cooling_pc/"The only relevant test of the validity of a hypothesis is comparison of prediction with experience. "Milton Friedman 1912 - 2006Best RegardsClear Ether

author: StubbornGreek
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 07:13:35 am
content: That was an interesting read - I wonder how the efficiency would scale with size. Thanks for the link.

author: Dago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 07:29:16 am
content: Quite an interesting and a simple (the best kind) idea. I wonder if piezos experience fatigue or have some any problems with lifetime? Anybody designed any ultrasonic cleaners or something?

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 05:34:02 pm
content: Fatigue life really depends on construction ( no voids and perfect adhesion of the piezo unit to the metal sheet backing) and drive level. If you run it in the elastic region and below the fatigue stress of the particular metal and ceramic it should last essentially forever. Most likely it will be run in the region where the fatigue life in in the order of 1 million power on hours. The driver is more likely to fail than the piezo unit.

author: andyturk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 06:11:33 pm
content: I love how the marketing weenie is wearing safety glasses. Maybe the interviewer has a spittle problem?

author: poodyp
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 10:04:33 pm
content: I like how when they mention how good it will be in thin products they show an iPhone and iPad, two products that don't need cooling.So I'm guessing they're saying to make something truly thin you need to make it run cool enough that you don't need their product.

author: StubbornGreek
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 02:19:18 am
content: Quote from: poodyp on December 13, 2012, 10:04:33 pmThis technology would allow those devices to use components that can not be passively cooled... but, I see what you're saying.

author: jeroen74
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 11:26:10 am
content: IIRC this technology is also used or being investigated for use in LED lamps.
Digital oscilloscopes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: M0BSW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 07:59:58 pm
content: Hi Group, I'm looking at digital scopes 60mhz ,two brands I can see Owon SDS6062 $399.00 & Aide Tek ADT2062CA $399.00has anyone heard of these ,are they any good for hobbyist.Paul

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 08:12:20 pm
content: Your icon says UK but you are giving dollar prices, so I'm not sure where to go with this - but in the US, Saelig offers the 100 MHz Rigol DS1102E for the same price - $399.

author: M0BSW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 08:26:58 pm
content: I am in the UK and the flyer I was given is from the USA, which ship them over, not seen these in the UK.

author: M0BSW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 08:30:47 pm
content: Sorry I have found a uk site for OWON and the scope SDS6062 I'm interested in costs £395.00 uk.which is about what the max I'd pay for one

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 08:51:22 pm
content: Hmm, I can't find a DS1102E in UK for a reasonable price. It's a shame, they're cheap here and quite good scopes.

author: mianchen
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 08:57:07 pm
content: Quote from: M0BSW on December 10, 2012, 08:30:47 pmgot mine DS1102E from Germany for £320 delivered, that's below £395

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 09:00:41 pm
content: Also still available from dealextreme in 50Mhz model, upgradeable to 100Mhzhttp://dx.com/p/rigol-ds1052e-5-6-tft-lcd-50mhz-2-channel-digital-color-storage-oscilloscope-30573

author: DaveW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 10:18:10 am
content: Quote from: c4757p on December 10, 2012, 08:51:22 pmBetween MCS or Batronix (Germany, but ship to UK), you should be able to get one for a reasonable price.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 01:41:18 pm
content: http://www.batronix.com/shop/oscilloscopes/Owon-SDS7102V.htmlGreat deal IMO, in the EU at least.

author: M0BSW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 05:48:19 pm
content: I didn't realise there were so many to choose from, it will be my first venture into Digital scope, but of course my analogue is going no where .

author: AndyC_772
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 06:47:50 pm
content: Quote from: c4757p on December 10, 2012, 08:51:22 pmTelonic Instruments, £279 + vat = £335http://www.rigol-uk.co.uk/ds1000e-series-digital-oscilloscope/

author: mrbyte
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 01:17:43 am
content: Quote from: mianchen on December 10, 2012, 08:57:07 pmDid you buy from Batronix? They have the DS1052E for £240 delivered and I am tempted myself. Do they include a UK mains lead?Thanks
Raspberry PI as an FM transmitter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JonnyBoats
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 10:57:11 pm
content: Very cool - playing music through an FM radio using a Raspberry PI with zero extra parts, only a short wire antenna.YouTube video:WiKi:http://www.icrobotics.co.uk/wiki/index.php/Turning_the_Raspberry_Pi_Into_an_FM_TransmitterThinking out loud...I wonder if it could be used for FSK on the 2 meter ham bands, could make a low cost APRS beacon?

author: Dago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 07:23:09 am
content: Thats more like "Raspberry Pi as an FM jammer"! Since it has no filters it must be spewing out loads of harmonic interference at 200, 300, 400MHz etc.

author: jh15
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 04:42:25 am
content: What, no HD-FM I-Q modulation? How about plain old multiplex stereo?https://www.eevblog.com/forum/Smileys/default/grin.gif

author: ftransform
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2012, 11:04:47 am
content: I would like to see a spectrum analyzer readout.
Best way to measure guitar pickup impedance response? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jp1390
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 03:53:33 am
content: Hi just wondering if anyone has a good suggestion for measuring and plotting the magnitude of the impedance at different frequencies of a guitar pickup.So far I have used a function generator in series with a known resistance R and my pickup connected through the input jack and cable and played around with different frequencies.At each frequency I measure the voltage across both R and the pickup and I can find the current as Vr/R and since the pickup is in series with R I can find out what the impedance is: |Z| = Vpickup/I for different frequencies.Wondering if anyone has another idea on performing this measurement.Cheers,JP

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 05:02:13 am
content: Sweeped frequency response graph - like dave has just demonstrated on saturday, friday if you live in the states

author: jp1390
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 07:44:32 pm
content: I have to sweep frequencies but my question is more related to ideas on what kind of connection to the AC source should my guitar pickup have. Right now I am connecting my AC source to the patch cord (connected to the pickup) and measuring impedance that way, but it is neglecting the effect of the strings.Any more suggestions?

author: kaindub
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 10:57:15 am
content: Have a look at this sitehttp://buildyourguitar.com/resources/lemme/i think it will tell you everything you need to knowNow constructing the test equipment may be a bit more difficultRobert
How mains hum is helping forensic scientists to fight crime  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 10:51:57 am
content: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-20629671

author: ejeffrey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 09:00:45 pm
content: It sounds like a great forensic technique for identifying a random recording, but not one that is terribly hard to fake if you know your forgery will be subjected to such analysis.

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 09:17:56 pm
content: Very clever. Someone mentioned this at work today. But they got it the wrong way around with mains frequency. It goes up under greater supply than demand, down under greater demand than supply.It would be hard to fake unless you had records of all of the mains frequency at the alleged time.

author: G7PSK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 09:25:41 pm
content: The frequency will go down on first meeting greater demand and when the demand cannot be met by increasing the field current the speed is wound up. I have seen the frequency vary between 49 and 51 HZ.

author: aluck
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 03:01:01 am
content: Quote from: tom66 on December 12, 2012, 09:17:56 pmandyou will manage to remove original frequencies...I asked the guy I know from forensics lab. He said that it's a well-known and a widely-used method.

author: ejeffrey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 04:20:25 am
content: Quote from: tom66 on December 12, 2012, 09:17:56 pmRight, but that isn't exactly secret information, nor is it particularly hard to find after the fact. Just find some other recording that takes place at the time you want to impersonate.QuoteThat is a potentially harder problem. Like most forms of digital figerprinting, it is hard to do so without leaving any traces, but it all depends on how sophisticated the analysis is compared to how good the forgery is. For sure a simple automated technique that uses a 2 Hz bandpass filter and a level crossing detector would be easy to fool.As one tool in a suite of forgery detection tools I imagine it is useful, but it needs to be used carefully.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 04:31:48 am
content: How would it cope with highly compressed audio, which generally does a high pass of low frequencies to reduce bitrate.

author: aluck
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 04:43:32 am
content: It is not a universal method, nor that is the only one used. Also that method wouldn't work outside; 5-7 meters from a building and the 50/60 Hz signal is gone.

author: Ed.Kloonk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 05:13:05 am
content: Time to dig up Nixon and find out what happened to the missing 18 minutes.
If You Haven't Seen This Wow  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Sionyn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 11:23:23 pm
content: 20121201 21 ????Yann Frisch?in

author: FenderBender
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 02:06:37 am
content: Awesome!
Earr Zoom  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Sionyn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 10:52:41 pm
content: the most dumbest product ever

author: PeterG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 11:02:59 pm
content: Given the high cost of hearing aids, this product is not as silly as you may think.When it first came out it probably looked weird, but these days a lot of people use Bluetooth headsets so it would not look out of place.Regards

author: David Aurora
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 01:37:15 am
content: 1. Given how little most people understand about hearing damage, DIY budget hearing aids are a recipe for disaster.2. Where did they find those actors?

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 03:20:04 am
content: The advertisement is terrible but the product is ok, i can see it being useful to some people.

author: cwalex
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 12:20:29 pm
content: if it's omnidirectional it is just going to amplify everything so the noises nearest you will just swamp the distant sounds. Seem pretty useless to me.

author: G7PSK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 06:41:50 pm
content: They used to sell such things to kids, for spying with. Advertised in many boys comics and such, Tandy/Radio shack had them.
What is the difference between DIP and DIL ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 12:09:08 pm
content: Just wondering. I think I see more of DIP in reference to IC's and DIL in reference to their sockets, is there any real difference ?

author: Monkeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 12:13:44 pm
content: Dual In-Line and Dual In-line Package. So.. none. At all.

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 12:18:13 pm
content: sometimes the P refers to Plastic, so a ceramic part is DIL but not DIP, but these are so rare nowadays that in practice the two terms are equivalent.

author: Monkeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 12:19:58 pm
content: Quote from: mikeselectricstuff on December 12, 2012, 12:18:13 pmI thought that's what prefixes (PDIP, CDIP) were for.

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 12:41:40 pm
content: Quote from: Monkeh on December 12, 2012, 12:19:58 pmSometimes yes, but in the early days there were a few different conventions which have stuck around or not in varying degrees.Interestingly SIL is much more common than SIP for single-in-line.

author: ptricks
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 12:45:41 pm
content: DIP is for IC .DIL is for anything that has dual rows of pins and can be anything from sockets to relays.

author: george graves
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 03:12:28 pm
content: no difference at all.

author: Kremmen
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 03:31:46 pm
content: Quote from: mikeselectricstuff on December 12, 2012, 12:18:13 pmExactly this is my recollection as well. Industrial/mil rated dual-in-line chips and UVEEPROMS of the 27xxx family used to come in ceramic/cemented (DIL) packages that were said to be hermetic. Hermetic seal was not claimed for the ordinary plastic packages (DIP). Nowadays nobody seems to pay much attention to that distinction any more and anyway the ceramic slabs are all but gone anyway.
mini sd card. Do you have any devices that use these. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Ed.Kloonk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2012, 09:29:21 pm
content: Mini SD card. Not Mirco or plain old full-size SD cards.I bought an adapter kit that takes micro sd cards and converts them to the two bigger sizes.There are two adapters in the kit. Once does micro SD to Full size SD. The other one takes a micro sd and coverts it into aminisd card. It is this adapter I have yet to find a use for. All my gear is either micro sd or full size SD. No mini sd slots anywhere.The question I have is this: Have you any devices that accept mini sd cards? If so, what are they?

author: NiHaoMike
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2012, 09:33:42 pm
content: If nothing else, solder some wires to the adapter and use it as a socket for a microcontroller project!

author: bitwelder
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2012, 09:46:27 pm
content: Quote from: Ed.Kloonk on December 08, 2012, 09:29:21 pmI still have a working (but not currently in use) Nokia N80 that takes miniSD cards.

author: Ed.Kloonk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2012, 09:49:59 pm
content: Quote from: NiHaoMike on December 08, 2012, 09:33:42 pmThat is a good idea.

author: Ed.Kloonk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2012, 09:50:48 pm
content: Quote from: bitwelder on December 08, 2012, 09:46:27 pmAh. Ok. It's the only device I've ever seen that takes the mini SD.

author: G7PSK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2012, 10:11:26 pm
content: I have a mini SD to compact flash card converter.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2012, 10:41:49 pm
content: The last time i used or seen a MiniSD was a Nokia 6288 in early 2007

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 05:17:13 am
content: i have a couple of old Chinese digital cameras that use them.

author: Ed.Kloonk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 08:39:28 am
content: The slots at not built into anything new in the last several years. Safe to assume they are dead then huh?Poor Mini SD card format. We hardly knew ya.

author: westfw
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 07:04:15 am
content: I found a bunch of cheap mini-SD sockets on eBay. Easy to solder/etc, and you can use micro-SD cards with them via an adapter. (micro-SD cards are just TOO tiny.)(This is a mini-SD adapter for The Mattel "JuiceBox" multimedia player. At one time, these small ARM/linux-based toys were being liquidated for about $10 each. With no modifications, they'll play some pictures and MP3 files from an SD card. With "some" modifications, they can be a tiny linux system.)

author: Ed.Kloonk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 07:32:55 am
content: Quote from: westfw on December 12, 2012, 07:04:15 am
2008 Fluke 87V - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Safeadvisor
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 13, 2012, 12:58:22 pm
content: I just purchased a new in the box Fluke 87V on eBay. I did not realize it was built in 2008. Is there any advantage to one built in 2012? If so are they upgradable? Thank you for your help.

author: ProBang
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2012, 03:51:15 am
content: Hello.Just two thoughts...1. The calibration is out of date. Probably the 87V is quite in spec...- but you can't be sure without a new one.2. The 87V from 2008 is sensible for GSM-Frequencies.Look at Dave's Video-Blog #112:Fluke fixed it in the middle of 2011. With a modified PCB.Because that's a hardware- issue, there's no updating possible.Look at Dave's Video-Blog #185:Greetings,Hartmut

author: little_ear
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 28, 2012, 10:35:02 am
content: Hello!I am new on this forum and i hope my comment and question is valid here.I got a 87 V which seems to be a from (2008 or) 2009 (Manual Rev. 08; the back of my Multimeter says "09").The Rev. Board Version says: 10I got no issues with my cellphone at all.In Addition I was wondering if that GSM issue could be caused by the firmware itself (and not by the shielding or board schematics). So i tried some stuff to find out if there is any way to see the firmware version.I found the following stuff - does anyone know what this means?:- Turn off the 87V- Press and hold: AutoHOLD- Switch to DC VolageNow my Multimeter says: 3.01Could this be the firmware?Kind regards

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2012, 12:40:50 pm
content: The owners of old Fluke 87V can ask for a replacement/repair for the GSM issue?Alexander.

author: little_ear
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 28, 2012, 01:20:50 pm
content: This is what I found regarding: Fluke fix GSM bug:http://www.flukecommunity.com/forums/showthread.php?s=93e2a25ba9bd419b6051adc9fae4ebe9&t=3348&page=4&pp=10Anyone did tried the following stuff?- Turn off the 87V- Press and hold: AutoHOLD- Switch to DC VolageWhich Numbers does your Multimeter display?

author: little_ear
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 28, 2012, 08:23:14 pm
content: Tested with 3G and 2G.Using even 2 Smartphones next to the Multimeter. (also at the same time)

author: SLJ
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2012, 12:21:29 am
content: Fluke responded to my GSM rev 11 question:Fluke: - You'll need an 87V with a > S/N 19470148.Update: New 87V arrived today. Ser. # 21950XXX. I checked and it's Rev 11. Pressing AutoHOLD at turn on shows 3.03UPDATE NOTE: I contacted Fluke for the serial numbers of the updated versions before I purchased mine. They did not replace my unit.
What should I buy? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 12:59:49 am
content: I'm selling my old analog oscilloscope on eBay. (I have anewanalog oscilloscope plus a Rigol DS1052D converted to DS1102D, so I don't need it sitting around). It's the first time I've sold anything on eBay. My plan is to buy some other piece of equipment for my workbench - I'm a bit of a test equipment junkie but haven't been able to afford anything for a while. Currently it has a bid for $50 (yeah, it's a really low-end scope) and I'm hoping it goes up a bit.So, what do the other forum members think I should do with that $50? I don't mind buying broken stuff and repairing it, even if I go a bit over the $50 in repairs. (Actually I prefer that, it's fun.) I currently own: The two oscilloscopes mentioned above, Fluke 8050A bench DMM, BK Precision 2712 DMM, a couple crappy DMMs, Simpson 422 sweep/function generator, a basic power supply, and a Heathkit vacuum tube voltmeter that I fixed and calibrated. Most of my projects are test equipment themselves, so I like to focus on "reproductive equipment" - test equipment that's useful to make more test equipment.

author: cwalex
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 12:22:41 pm
content: You should include the links to your ebay auctions. And put it in the buy/sell section. This forum gets HEAPS of hits and might drive the price up and give you more money to spend on more test equipment
555 timing capacitors - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ee851
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 05:01:16 pm
content: In his tutorial, Ian Purdie says to avoid using either electrolyticor ceramic capacitors for timing,http://www.electronics-tutorials.com/devices/555.htmbut rather a low-leakage capacitor.What kind of capacitor, then, would you suggest ? Tantalum? Or something else?I only ask because I don't recall hearing David address this issue in his 555 PWM project video.

author: w2aew
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 05:22:07 pm
content: The reason for the general statement is because electrolytics are leakier than other types, not as stable with temperature and time, etc. So, if you need precise, repeatable timing in a circuit, you would try to use a more low leakage, stable capacitor type - like a teflon, polystyrene, polypropylene, etc. The problem is that these caps are generally not available in large capacitance values. However, a 555 is not a precision chip, so it is not used in precise timing applications, so the use of non-ideal capacitors (from a leakage standpoint) is usually not a problem.

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 06:23:27 pm
content: When I use a 555, I generally use a cheap film capacitor for timing. They're not that expensive, and the timing is more predictable (yes, I have verified this), especially with high resistance values. They do cost more than a ceramic or electrolytic, but it's not exactly like my circuit is littered with 555s and I'm pissing money away by using a better capacitor here or there.That said, a ceramic or electrolytic will usually work just fine, especially if you don't mind determining timing experimentally by trying different values instead of mathematically and expecting it to work right the first time.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 07:00:22 pm
content: If you are really stuck with using an electrolytic use a high voltage one, 50, 100V or so, even though you are only running on 5V. The thicker oxide layer means lower leakage at low voltage, even though the unit physically will be larger.

author: ee851
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2012, 04:56:08 am
content: Thank you, gentlemen, for your advice and recommendations.
OMRON -- anyone actually get any technical support from them? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: WorldPowerLabs
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2012, 03:58:35 pm
content: Hello all,This is not intended to be a rant -- just a question. I had contacted OMRON twice to ask for their advice in selecting between a couple of their relay families for a new design (I had just a couple, specific questions that were not addressed by the datasheets). Never even got so much as an automated acknowledgement from them. Has anyone had any success in contacting OMRON?

author: jeroen74
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2012, 10:23:46 pm
content: I'd not be surprised that you would have gotten a (quicker) response if it were obvious that you work at some big name international company

author: WorldPowerLabs
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 03:43:55 am
content: You're probably right on that... although I do work for a company that has products in retail stores across the United States and Canada, it's not a "household name" sort of company. Still, I have complete discretion with regard to what vendors we use for our electronic designs and most companies are happy to call me back, send samples, send salesmen, etc. (I guess since I'm the *only* EE there, that makes me the "chief" EE by default).

author: jeroen74
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 07:49:02 am
content: I can imagine they don't want to spend much resources on hobbyists, but not reacting to a serious business customer seems somewhat stupid to me. Maybe just give them a ring?

author: AndyC_772
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 08:13:57 am
content: Most component manufacturers don't provide support direct, even to most companies.Go to a franchised distributor and ask to speak to a field applications engineer; that's how companies buying hundreds rather than millions of parts get support.

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2012, 09:20:15 am
content: Quote from: AndyC_772 on December 11, 2012, 08:13:57 amAnd as most distributors carry multiple manufacturers they may be able to advise on competitor parts that may be more suitable, cheaper or more readily available.
Resolution of a DSO vs DC offset - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: filip
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 09:19:03 pm
content: Hello,I don't have a lot of experience with oscilloscopes, but I did some measurements with analog ones.I am considering buying a DSO (probably a Hantek DSO5062 or an equivalent), but one particular thing worries me about it.Most of these cheap DSO have 8 bit ADCs.Let's say that I have a 100kHz 5Vpp square wave with some ringing and I want to have a closer look at the ringing after the rising edge.My question is - does the vertical position knob add a generated DC offset voltage between the signal source and the ADC or does it just move the same measurement across the screen?If the first is true, then I can subtract for example 4.9V (with the vertical position knob) from the input signal and set the measurement range for 200mV, which would give me 0.8mV/bit for an 8 bit ADC - seems fine for watching a < 200mVpp ringing.But if the second one is true, then ADCs 8bits would be spread across 5Vpp (assuming that the voltage range of the scope matches the waveform) which would mean that each bit is ~20mV and shifting the waveform and decreasing v/div only does a 'software zoom' - does not improve the viewing resolution. That could be a considerable disadvantage of a cheap DSO compared to a quality second hand analog scope.thanks,Filip

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 09:29:51 pm
content: Vertical position usually applies a DC offset before the ADC. Offset range is limited though, and it relies on quick overdrive recovery of the vertical amplifier (which is usually not specified). Analog scopes have the same problem.

author: filip
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 09:44:23 pm
content: Thanks for the clarification.As far as I understand the voltage division stage precedes the DC offset stage, so the problem of limited range offset is partially mitigated, right?Has anybody tried to determine the behaviour of the input stages of the most popular cheap DSOs (for example Rigol DS1052E, Hantek DSO5202M, Owon SDS6062) in regards to overdrive recovery, offset ranges etc?

author: w2aew
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 10:06:47 pm
content: It's going to depend on the scope. The better ones give you control over both the position and the offset independently, so you can have better control over the usage of the DAC's dynamic range. Another thing to watch out for is overload recovery, so when you make a measurement like this, it is not affected by the over/under drive of the input.
Samsung DTB-H550F PSU require R28 value  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: telasg
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 08:39:27 am
content: I'm carrying out some repairs to the Samsung DTB-H550F set top box power supply and resistor R28 is burnt beyond recognition. Anyone happen to know the original value?

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 09:33:52 am
content: Nope, but where abouts is it in the circuit? It may be a fusible resistor and be a result of failure not a cause.

author: telasg
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 09:59:43 am
content: I didn't think a fusible resistor would burn and would simple go open circuit like a fuse.The resistor is 1/4W and measures around 66k. It is on the low voltage output side of the transformer next to several Samxon bad caps (3 by visual inspection).
Stores in Bay Area to purchase Fluke DMM and others - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sivark
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 07:48:21 pm
content: Hi,I'm San Francisco in the Bay Area on a business trip and will be here for a couple of days.Can anyone help me with store location and names where I can purchase Fluke DMM and other test equipment and other miscellaneous electronics stuff.I prefer to browse and shop rather than order on-line.Thanks

author: Fluxed Matter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 10:24:31 pm
content: Go to Frys electronics. There is one in Palo Alto and one in Concord which would be the closes to SF. Also try Lowes or Home Depot.

author: sivark
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 02:51:09 am
content: Hi,Thanks a ton.BTW, I will be in LA for a couple of days also - wondering if there are similar stored there also.Thanks again

author: Fluxed Matter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 03:41:41 am
content: They also have Frys in Southern California. And there is a big electronics store in Pomona which is about an hour east of LA. It's been years since I have been there since moving up to SJ. I will see if I can find the address for you.
Astronomer Patrick Moore Dies At Age 89  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Sionyn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 04:22:19 pm
content: Patrick leaves a wonderful legacy through the generations of astronomers and scientists he introduced to the night sky

author: AndreasF
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 07:27:00 pm
content: When I saw the latest "Sky at Night" the other day I was wondering how much longer he's going to be in it. RIP Sir Patrick!

author: Sionyn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 07:35:23 pm
content: yeah i was wondering this too the guy didn't look too good, very well done to him he did the sky at night straight for 50 years

author: Prizmatic
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 08:44:17 pm
content: Such a shame, he was a unique character. I hope he's also remembered for his many achievements, not just his eccentricity. I watched a documentary on him some time ago, his earlier astronomy work was inspiring.

author: lavo-1
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 09:29:53 pm
content: Such an inspiration to many.A wonderful presenter and an true eccentric English gentleman.R.I.P.

author: Neilm
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 10:24:24 pm
content: Quote from: Sionyn on December 09, 2012, 07:35:23 pmHe certainly didn't look too good. He only missed one episode in the whole 50 years.Neil

author: Sionyn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 10:39:53 pm
content: the guy was pioneer never afraid of change or to try something newmuch respect for Patrick

author: lewis
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 10:43:37 pm
content: Genuinely saddened by this. Rest in peace Sir.

author: Neilm
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 10:44:08 pm
content: His own composition for the Xylophone. (he was self taught)

author: r90s
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2012, 01:47:28 am
content: I really enjoyed his shows, and his books...
-15 and +15 volts from automotive power for a EQ. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: george graves
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 02:04:11 am
content: I found what seems like a nice schematic for a nice looking audio EQ. It needs -15 and +15 volts and was designed for home use."With a 15V AC supply, total current draw was 92mA"Just for some over head - I was thinking I'd like to have 250mA on tap.http://sound.westhost.com/project84.htmAny recommendations for getting clean +15/-15 volts from a car's noisy power? I would lean more towards a solution using an purpose built chip rather than discrete components. Even if that chip cost $3-$6UDS or something.

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 02:16:53 am
content: Have you tried running it on a lower voltage? I bet some op amps would do this decently on +/- 6V. (TL072 needs a good amount of headroom so I'd try something different)Of course you still have to filter the living hell out of the power, and don't forget about the occasional nasty transient, but youmightnot have to boost it at all.

author: jeroen74
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 09:00:29 am
content: You could consider using theLT3439.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 09:33:49 am
content: You might be able to use a premade DCDC module, it's more than US$6 but does make things simple/easy.There are many available, and i've not really searched hard, but this one will produce +/- 15V@125mA from 9-18V inputhttp://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/CC3-1212DF-E/445-2472-ND/920432I guess it depends how noise critical the 15v rails are.You might be better with a +/-24V module and 15V linear regs on it.

author: ptricks
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 02:25:41 pm
content: Max743 has dual +-12V or +-15V outputs from a +5V source.http://www.maximintegrated.com/datasheet/index.mvp/id/1344The datasheet even includes the PCB pattern with parts list.The current limit is 125ma unless you use external FET then the current is whatever you want
Good quality polycarbonate or polyester labels in Australia - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ChrisKiwi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 03:55:45 am
content: Hi All, can anyone recommend a supplier for small quantities of digitally printed, laser cut, self adhesive labels in New Zealand or Australia. I know about Entech in Australia. I work for a company that designs and manufactures in small volumes (10's of units as apposed to 1,000's of units). We accept that the cost will be higher for small volumes but we still require the quality and a supplier that will accept small orders. Regards,Chris

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 09, 2012, 05:00:45 am
content: Quote from: ChrisKiwi on December 09, 2012, 03:55:45 amLast time I went through the exercise I found the best deal in Australia was from Mainland china. Few locals wanted to be flexible, most wanted to charge hundreds for artwork that was readily accepted by the overseas vendors. I'd have preferred to spend my money here but the experience was not good with local companies.