hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
How to choose a compatible flux to the insides of the solder wire? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Alexandre Mello
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 06, 2018, 11:35:41 am
content: Hello.I want to try a new lead-free solder wire, the Stannol KS115 (PN 574101). I contacted their customer service asking for the right flux to use with it, but the fluxes they recommended to me are sold only in 2.5L bottles and this is way too much for my usage. Then comes the question on how to choose a compatible flux to the insides of the solder wire?The description of the solder is:"The 574101 is a Solder Wire contains a rosin-free, halide activated synthetic resin. STANNOL KS-Series electronic solder wires have been designed for special requirements of lead-free soldering. They meet all demands of industrial manufacturing as well as for rework and repair. Flux is an excellent combination of high activity at thermal stress with amber bright and electrically safe residues. The flux formulations KS115 are classified to DIN EN 29454-1 Type 1.2.2.B. Due to their high activity (1.0 and 1.5%), the fluxes are classified as REM1 to DIN EN 61190. STANNOL solder wires KS115 is designed for use with robotic and manual soldering for electric and electronic devices. Flux residues may remain uncleaned. This must be examined in individual cases, where environmental stress is applied to the circuit."The TDS for the fluxes they recommended to me are attached.Anyone has a tip or a suggestion?Thanks

author: Niklas
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 06, 2018, 11:25:32 pm
content: The X32 flux seems to be a safer choice as it is from the same group as the flux in the solder wire. Both are resin type fluxes (RE), moderately activated (M) and the difference is in the halide content (0 or 1).

author: Alexandre Mello
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 07, 2018, 05:49:45 pm
content: Hi Niklas.I’m not in doubt between these two fluxes. Their minimum quantity is way too much for me. I’m trying to figure out what other high quantity flux of another brand can be compatible with this solder I want to try. I just put these two here to help with information that can lead to the right choice, as they were recommended to me by the manufacturer as compatible ones.
Single-sided alumina ceramic circuit boards. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: CM800
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 10, 2018, 04:39:08 am
content: Hi All,does anyone have any experience with a good, cost effective ceramic PCB manufacturer. The application is for a heater plate, characteristics I'm looking for:- Low thermal expansion as possible.- High thermal conductivity as possible.- Flat as possible.- sizes up to 300x300mm, 150x150mm at least however.- at least 3mm thick, 5mm preferred.Single sided copper traces with a inert plating layer to stop corrosion from running at over 100*Heres hoping I'm not being too demanding...
Degreasing before bonding, you get what you pay for or? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: smile
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2018, 07:48:21 am
content: Hello,I would like to know what degreaser works best, the recommended Loctite SF 7063 costs 10Eur,The competitor products like Weicon Cleaner S, Weicon Brake pad cleaner, Weicon Surface Cleaner Spray are way cheaper.1. MSDS Loctite SF 7063 - 10Eurhttp://mymsds.henkel.com/mymsds/Search.do?BUSAREA=0006&DOCTYPE=MSDS&COUNTRY=GB&LANG=EN&MATNR=883442. Weicon Cleaner S - 4.30Eurhttps://www.weicon.de/media/pdf/8f/b4/06/MSDS_112025_EN_EN_Cleaner-Spray-S.pdf3. Weicon Brake pad cleaner - 2.89Eurhttps://www.weicon.de/media/pdf/1f/72/b3/MSDS_112030_EN_EN_Brake-Cleaner.pdf4. Weicon Surface Cleaner Spray - price unavailablehttp://www.weicon.de/media/pdf/bc/95/51/MSDS_112070_EN_EN_Surface-Cleaner.pdfSo by reading the MSDS the obvious is all products are different, the most ingredients listed for Weicon Cleaner S.The question is that Loctite is hiding most of their stuff or it's very overpriced?
neoden t5s "desktop" oven - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: charliex
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2018, 03:45:12 am
content: got one last week, works fine. the usual pids +ssrs + heating elements, not bad for the price, peaks about 5.5kW claimed but you can just stage it if you don't have the 220VAC A needed, takes about 7-9A peak for each stage.looking forward to not having to use a hot plate anymore!
Custom 7 segment LCD (odometer) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: UZZ32
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 25, 2018, 12:08:12 pm
content: Hi guys,I've been thinking of making a replica of this LCD design I drew up in the picture, based off a factory truck odometer LCD I examined.It's got me confused on the way they have grouped the segments, most of the numbers only have 3-4 pinouts to drive the 7 segments and a lot are linked...I'm baffled at how it works, maybe there's more hidden detail on the LCD that I can't see? General thoughts?It's driven by a PLC44 of sorts, with 26 pins going to the LCD via a zebra strip.Would be ideal to understand it a bit better if I was to try find a company to replicate such.

author: ar__systems
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 26, 2018, 01:19:50 pm
content: Quite obviously you did not get the schematics of the LCD correctly. With 6 digits and 26 pins it is going to be multiplexed.
LTCC prototyping - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: blueskull
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 17, 2018, 07:15:17 am
content: Is there any prototyping LTCC fabs around that deal with small players? Talking about <$1000 MOQ+NRE.Looking for a 4L LTCC with laser vias and 0.1mm track width spec.Anyone has any suggestions? Thanks.
homemade stencil printing frame - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2018, 03:35:33 am
content: I have mentioned in the past my low-budget solder stencil setup, I finally got around to taking some pictures.The base has a 1" grid of 10-32 tapped holes. The frame edges have a .062" step machined into them, to hold the board flush with the top, and securely hold the edge of the board. There are slots at 2" intervals for screws to hold the frame pieces as needed to hold the specific board, as in the 2nd picture.I have found that masking tape makes a great living hinge for the stencil. I apply the masking tape to the edge of the stencil, then align the apertures to the board's pads, and then press the masking tape to the frame, as seen in the 3rd photo.Jon

author: Dubbie
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 11, 2018, 04:59:19 am
content: Ah the luxury of monster parts!

author: Berni
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2018, 05:08:02 am
content: Quite the solid board support there.Do you recycle those brass stencils by melting them down?

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2018, 03:04:08 pm
content: Quote from: Berni on June 11, 2018, 05:08:02 amNo, I generally keep them for some time, as I build the same boards in modest batches. Eventually the stencils get superseded by new designs. Then, I can turn them in for scrap.Jon

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2018, 03:05:23 pm
content: Quote from: Dubbie on June 11, 2018, 04:59:19 amWell, I go down to 0603 on some boards, and routinely do 0.5mm pitch flat packs. I have done 0.4mm pitch, but that is way out of the league for my P&P machine.Jon

author: ar__systems
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2018, 04:11:34 pm
content: That looks.... scary.My stencil printer had similar design. But messing with screws is annoying, and routed and especially scored boards are not exactly same size. So if your board supports bolted to the bottom, you can't do per board adjustments easily. I replaced it with a simpler design. I 3d printed similarly profiled brackets with magnets in the bottom, and place them on a steel plate. No messing with screws, and I can always move the supports slightly if the board does not fit or is loose.Also, I find for larger boards you need to have supports under the PCB.

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2018, 07:09:08 pm
content: Quote from: ar__systems on June 11, 2018, 04:11:34 pmWell, I always leave a LITTLE bit of room when setting the frame for the board. This seems to work fine, without adjusting for each board.Yes, I have some supports I can put in for the larger boards to support from the back.Jon
Neoden4 PnP - Streamlining assembly file export/import - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JCoyle
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 12, 2018, 02:30:09 pm
content: I just recently set up a Neoden4 PnP and the company I work for uses Altium as our PCB design platform. While going through the setup and placing components on the trial board, I noticed that the process for exporting the .csv assembly file and then copying and pasting the fields into the supplied sample file is a bit tedious every time I want to export/import a new assembly.My current process is as follows:1.) Export the .csv file from Altium2.) Open the .csv file that was just exported in Excel3.) Convert the angle to a 0-180 and 0-(-180) degrees using an excel formula4.) Open the sample .csv file supplied by Neoden5.) Copy & Paste in the relevant information columns from the Altium export into the Neoden template6.) Run switch cases to identify nozzles based on footprint/feeder(manually entered)7.) Save the updated template to USB8.) Import on PnP9.) Setup PnP to specific build requirementsDoes anyone have any recommendations, or solutions, to streamline this process?Thank you!- Jon

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2018, 03:42:01 pm
content: Write some simple software to convert direct from your PCB software's output to the format the N4 wants.Use "fid" components to mark the PCB fiducials, so these can be translated into reference points for the N4 system.Make sure your PCB library rotations correspond consistently to tape/feeder orientations.Ideally include a library of nozzle types for each footprint type so these can be allocated by your software automatically.You'll probably want to include panelisation in your software as well.

author: sarason
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 01, 2018, 09:56:09 am
content: Send me an example of the Neoden CSV's and I will add it to PCBSynergyI have added a first go at the format, which is not up on my webpageI might add that PCBSynergy reads the Altium ASCII format which will shorten your setup considerably.The new NeoDen exporter also deals with the rotation requirements of NeoDen.PCBSynergy is availablehere:=https://pcbsynergy.comI can be contacted on the address on the webpageregards sarason

author: NeoDen-Haimi
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 05:12:36 am
content: Hi Dear Jon,Thanks for choosing our machine.About export file process,may we know the version of your Altium?If need any support,pls write us directly.And the PCBSynergy from Sarason looks very helpful,we will send him our file and ask him to add this in his list.Will be more convenient for other customer.Thanks and best regardsHaimi
I thinking to buy this CNC for PCB milling - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Chriss
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2018, 09:54:09 pm
content: Hi!I'm thinking to buy this cnc for milling my home proto pcb's :https://www.aliexpress.com/item/2016-New-GRBL-CNC-machine-3-Axis-Pcb-Milling-Machine-2418-Diy-Wood-Carving-Mini-Engraving/32704119622.html?spm=2114.search0104.3.26.3c0212d2WWMxPh&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_1_10152_10151_10065_10344_10068_10342_10343_10059_10340_10341_10696_100031_10084_10083_10103_10618_10624_10307_10623_10622_10621_10620,searchweb201603_11,ppcSwitch_3&algo_expid=117bf756-e48d-44cd-ba04-bdfa148a61c8-3&algo_pvid=117bf756-e48d-44cd-ba04-bdfa148a61c8&priceBeautifyAB=0Does somebody have some experience with this cnc for this purpose?Is it worth the money?Thank's

author: rx8pilot
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2018, 10:32:36 pm
content: If your expectations are exceedingly low.....it would at least be a fun experiment.

author: JohnnyMalaria
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2018, 10:52:01 pm
content: This person can but with some modifications. Also, it isn't clear if the holes have to be drilled with a different tool.https://youtu.be/z_v3WOBekdg

author: Chriss
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2018, 07:38:49 am
content: I use the offers from online pcb manufacturers to make my pcb's, but I think to upgrade to a tool so I can more quickly do a prototype pcb.The major reason for this thinking is because when I order pcb's online, most of case the min quantity is 4-5-10pcb.If something is wrong because bad design, or something is changed for some reason in the design I can dump all the pcb's I ordered.If I would have such of cnc like on my first post maybe it would work good enough even with few mod's to make quickly my prototype. After that I would send out my project to pro's to make high quality pcb's.I think it is an arduino driven cnc which is opensource and it could be nice modified and tuned.This could be also I nice experience maybe...wilfredQuoteThe price range is because of the head tool.You can buy the cnc with simple drill header or with different laser modules.
Sourcing a high quality USB power supply from Ali Baba - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: quiet-tech
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 02, 2018, 06:55:50 am
content: Hi guys,I spend more time on the Youtube channel than the forum but thought this might be a good place to ask this question.For the last week or so I've been revising the cost of goods for a long term project of mine with the hope of commercialisation on a smallish scale (ordering 400ish units at a time).My questions is about USB power supplies, specifically 2A+ (AUS, EUR & GBR), I'm really trying to source a white one with an unpopulated socket/no cable, similar to this:https://www.jaycar.com.au/mains-adpt-5vdc-2-1a-usb-skt-w-ltng-lead/p/MP3540There just seems like so much room for error with power supplies though, I was recently reading reviews of an Amazon basics USB charger which included multiple burn/overheat reviews (this product has been taken down since:https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-One-Port-USB-Charger-12-Watt-Compatible/dp/B01F2PW6KO).I want something off the shelf so I can inherit the certifications, I'm looking to source off of Ali Baba and will be getting samples prior to ordering. Any tests? or prior suppliers people would recommend?I'd love to find a factory which supplies one of the bigger western retailers but sold night shift units.Any help would be great.Cheers,Oli

author: krho
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 03, 2018, 05:03:42 am
content: If you really need more than 10W than I recommend that you look at quick charge chargers and then take a charger chip from TI (they are saying that the charger supports MaxCharge)which has a support for that. 2A@9V work excellent. Such chargers are usually twice the price of standard 1A@5V WE testedthis oneand a lot of charges that ship from the phones and they mention some sort of quick charge technologyWith the same charger chip mentioned above we've never gotten more than 1.8A from most of the 2A@5V chargers we tested, the culprit is the quality of the USB cables as the wires are usually to thin so the voltage at the charger chip is to low so the charger automatically lowers the current.The other option is USB C charger which out of the box can supply 3A@5V

author: quiet-tech
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 04, 2018, 10:59:58 am
content: Ah, very interesting. Thanks for sharing.
Using KICAD....Help - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Big Duck
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 17, 2018, 10:44:13 pm
content: I am brand new to Kicad. I used the footprint editor to create a footprint for a Bourns PTL series linear fader. I can not figure out how to put it in a library so I can use it on a layout of a board that I want to make. The whole "library" thing is quite puzzling.PLEASE HELP!!!

author: hermit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 18, 2018, 04:19:42 pm
content: The Kicad forum has a good FAQ on the library issues.https://forum.kicad.info/t/faq-index-thread/8890

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 19, 2018, 07:34:43 pm
content: Do you read Spanish?If so, here you have the best KiCad guide that has been ever written (in any languages):http://elektroquark.com/forokicad/index.php?topic=4.0

author: fourtytwo42
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2018, 07:58:31 pm
content: Quote from: Big Duck on April 17, 2018, 10:44:13 pmDon't worry, your not alone, every single CAD system out there has a confusing library system and they all take time to learn, unfortunatly unlike the drawing system itself there are no intuative standards. I am pretty stupid but got there in the end

author: iabarry
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 10, 2018, 02:59:50 am
content: Sorry to be a month late with this...In the FootPrintEditor: File: Set Active LibraryMake the foot print you want.Edit the FootPrint Properties (menu item with a gear over and IC near the center top). Mostly this is verify the name.In the graphical menu at the top, select the 2nd item: Save Footprint in Active Lib

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2018, 03:34:50 am
content: Addition:This is for the current KiCad V4.0.7.In the soon to be released KiCad V5 the whole library system has been overhauled.

author: Gibson486
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2018, 01:41:13 pm
content: Quote from: Doctorandus_P on May 26, 2018, 03:34:50 amLOL...they are going to overhaul it again? I hope the changes give altium a run for its money (not that it does not already).

author: Bassman59
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 30, 2018, 06:52:36 pm
content: Quote from: Gibson486 on May 30, 2018, 01:41:13 pmThe schematic libraries, which have remained pretty much the same for several years now, are being revamped to work more like the PCB libraries.

author: Gibson486
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2018, 12:21:00 pm
content: if I remember correctly, the schematic library makes a file and one big file. So if you have resistors library, all resistors go in one big file? if that is what they are changing, I am all for it. Also, they should change how schematics reference things. Instead, it should just make a local copy. Nothing sucks more than having someone change something in a shared library and having it resonate to an older design.
Custom TN LCD manufacturers?  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: UZZ32
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 19, 2018, 06:39:33 am
content: Hey guys,Does anyone have experience with getting their own custom LCD (Twisted Nematic) displays made up?If so what places have you had good success with?I've emailed a few places I found online based in China that seem ok, but it would be ideal to hear any positive feedback from those that have actually had success with getting screens made to their specificationsCheersMike
DIY fume extraction - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: KaneTW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2018, 07:09:58 pm
content: My planned (hobbyist) soldering area has ventilation tubing running through it that I use for coffee roasting exhaust.I'm thinking about installing a sufficiently strong fan, backflow prevention and an adjustable nozzle. Ventilation leads outside, and I live in a sparsely populated area.Questions are:* Is this viable in the first place, or are filters necessary? (i.e. are the fumes toxic enough that exhausting them outside is bad)* If viable, how effective does the backflow prevention need to be? Is e.g.http://www.takagi.com/products/venting/parts/5-backflow-preventersufficient or do I need positive air pressure?

author: helius
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2018, 07:17:48 pm
content: Quote from: KaneTW on May 14, 2018, 07:09:58 pmYou don't say what materials you will be using, but rosin flux fumes are not toxic at all. The problem is that overexposure can sometimes lead to sensitization, which causes a kind of allergic reaction on subsequent exposure. Fume extraction is how technicians hope to prevent the sensitization.Certain solvents used for board cleaning are actually toxic (luckily the worst are mostly phased out, like n-hexane and n-propyl bromide), and something like a fume hood would be needed if they are in regular use.

author: KaneTW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2018, 08:41:11 pm
content: Thanks. I don't think I plan on needing it for anything but flux fumes (planning on doing a lead-free process with R0L0), so it seems my plan is sufficient---I mostly just want clean air while soldering.

author: Cliff Matthews
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 25, 2018, 11:47:33 am
content: FWIW, quiet 12v "squirrel cage" fan/motor assemblies can be cheap at your local auto-wrecker.

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2018, 03:50:11 am
content: Quote from: Cliff Matthews on May 25, 2018, 11:47:33 amOr a 12V desktop case computer fan. You can mount this into an upside down plastic bucket.For ducting, purchase some 100mm or 150mm aluminium ducting from the hardware store. They sell it for ducting the hot air away from clothes dryers.

author: KaneTW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2018, 05:32:55 am
content: Yeah I already have a duct system installed, just need to connect to it with a sufficiently powerful/quiet fan.

author: Eka
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 28, 2018, 01:35:54 am
content: Stick the fan at the far end of the duct. It will be much quieter where you are working. I use a very low noise bathroom fan mounted in the ceiling. I made a cone that I push up against it, and use dryer vent tubing for the duct from my workspace. For the fan's exhaust, it goes through a 4" PVC drain pipe to the soffit area and is exhausted through a vent there.
PCB fab small run - single sided - nothing fancy - down and dirty... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: TommyR333
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 31, 2018, 01:05:34 pm
content: PCB fab small run - single sided - nothing fancy - down and dirty...Can anyone suggest a PCB fab that can do this very inexpensively?Thanking in advance.

author: rea5245
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2018, 01:13:11 pm
content: I think you'll find that single sided boards cost the same as double sided. The exact price depends, of course, on the size and quantity of your boards. And the cheapest manufacturer for one size and quantity might not be the cheapest at another size and quantity.Check outPCBShopper.com. It's a price comparison site for PCBs. You enter your board's specs and it shows you prices from up to 24 different manufacturers, including some of the best known companies in Asia, North America, and Europe. You can also read Amazon-style reviews of the manufacturers.Full disclosure: I run PCBShopper.- Bob AlexanderPCBShopper.com
Is anyone still using backplanes for modular type lab equipment? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: e100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2018, 04:44:43 am
content: Currently I have an embedded system that has an LCD display, but no user interface controls other than a few DIP switches. All data comes in/out via a CAN bus running at 20 kbits/s.In hindsight I now realise that omitting finger-sized controls was a bad decision. To keep the existing system running with minimal interruption I plan to create a series of separate boards to house the physical switches and potentiometers, and only communicate with the main board using CAN bus messages.Years ago I remember custom lab equipment used expensive looking modular card frames with equally looking expensive floating connectors on the backplane. My connector requirements are pretty minimal, just 4 pins, ground, +5v, CAN high and CAN low. Is building stuff on card frame sized boards a worthwhile exercise or is it easier just to use project boxes and stack them together to build a user interface?

author: awallin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2018, 03:03:26 pm
content: FWIW I recently used SATA cables and connectors for SPI-lines between a uC and my board, and some commercial device I've seen have used FireWire cables for some long (2-3m) runs to electromechanical gizmos from a central controller.So I guess a standardized serial protocol + connector/cable is the fashion now - not plug-in units with 32 or 64 pins on a DIN euro-connector...
DB9 Female Screwlock 4-40 - cheaper alternatives to DigiKey/Mouser? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Martin F
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2018, 10:34:57 am
content: Hi all,I'm looking for screwlocks and hardware for DB9 connectors in the size 0.23' to 0.34' in bulk purchases of 2000-4000 units.I've found quite a few options on DigiKey, but all seem rather expensive. Below is the best option I've found for now:https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/raf-electronic-hardware/4750-3/1772-2041-ND/7681452Do you know of e.g. Chinese retailers where this type of screw would be cheaper? Or maybe dedicated screw retailers?Any suggestions would be really appreciated - I tried searching a lot, but without luck.Best,Martin

author: SMdude
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2018, 11:56:37 am
content: Have you tried contacting the supplier directly? RAF electronic hardwareAlternately, what about the supplier for your db9 plug?You should be able to get them a lot cheaper than the digikey prices.Tried aliexpress or put a lead up on globalsources?

author: Martin F
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2018, 12:20:18 pm
content: Thanks, I'll try writing them directly!As for AliExpress, I was unable to find any good examples at low price - but maybe I am searching in the wrong way.Best,Martin

author: SMdude
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2018, 12:55:51 pm
content: I think these are the same as pcb standoffs, do a search for standoff on ebay/google.

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2018, 04:31:59 pm
content: 19 cents each in 1000 quantity? That seems really good to me! I used to pay roughly $1 each (in smaller quantity) until some cheaper versions of these showed up.Jon
have you recently tried filtering Digikey for 100nF-X7R-50V-0603 capacitors? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tatus1969
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 15, 2018, 09:35:01 pm
content: The result is a bit frightening

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 15, 2018, 10:05:38 pm
content: Buy it in different packaging...

author: edavid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 15, 2018, 11:08:52 pm
content: Previous thread:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/has-the-world-run-out-of-100nf-caps/

author: xaxaxa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 16, 2018, 03:25:18 am
content: life hack: use 220nf caps instead of 100nf when 100nf runs out; check your design first though.

author: tatus1969
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 16, 2018, 08:39:02 am
content: Quote from: NANDBlog on May 15, 2018, 10:05:38 pmThey have them in cut tape, which is what I went for. Just wanted to share this to see if this is a real problem "in the world". It apparently is...
Looking for industry/no-label waterproof bag for data logger (connector exit) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Martin F
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2018, 06:45:27 am
content: Hi all,We're looking for a simple waterproof bag for putting our data logger inside.Our logger is 8 cm x 3 cm x 5 cm and will have 1-2 connector cables connected to the logger that need to go outside the bag.As such, we are not looking for something that can be submerged, but rather something that can offer a reasonable IP64-IP65 like rating protection for the logger itself.I've found examples for e.g. phones:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Universal-Waterproof-JOTO-CellPhone-Motorola/dp/B00LBK7OSY/?tag=androcentr-21&ascsubtag=UUimUdUnU42024YYmYdHowever, nothing that is designed for industry applications (without branded label ideally) and with wire/connector exits built in.If there's something with custom sizing that would also be ideal.Any suggestions? Thanks a lot!PS: We realize the more cool/elegant solution would be to make our enclosure itself IP65, but that is too costly for the type of product we're making.In other words, we're looking for a "pragmatic" solution :-)

author: ChristopherN
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 13, 2018, 12:29:32 pm
content: You can get IV / infusion bags empty in various sizes and with one or more ports.Example:https://www.shop.lowcostexperiments.de/de/infusionsbeutel-250ml-zwei-schlauchanschluesseThe bags are really cheap (0.5€ in small quantities) and can be heat sealed. There are many different versions available.

author: janekm
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 13, 2018, 01:59:06 pm
content: Can your wires be thin? If so it might be possible to heat seal over them.

author: Martin F
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2018, 02:05:21 pm
content: Thanks for the tips! We'd ideally aim for something that can be semi-reasonably closed by the user so they can choose to put the logger in the bag if they want. In some cases they may want to take it out e.g. to extract an SD card.
What info is needed to designate location for PCB assembly process? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: OgreVorbis
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 08, 2018, 07:35:28 am
content: So there are some other questions similar to this, but none of them talk about how to designate the placement of components for the manufacturer.I use a pretty uncommon piece of software for designing my PCBs (sprint layout), so I can't just send the project file because they won't be able to open it.I have done PCB manufacture before without assembly. All I have to do is send the company the gerber and drill files.Now to do a pick and place, I also have to provide a BOM; this I understand.What I don't understand is how they program the machine to place the components at the right location. Do I need another file for this? Is it good enough to just have the component numbers on the silkscreen layer and have them figure it out themselves, or is there some type of other file I have to include to tell them the exact location to place the components?

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2018, 07:56:13 am
content: what they need is either:A. Reference designators and a pin 1 marker on the relevent chips, markings for diode orientation, polarity markers for caps, etc on the silk screnB. A fabrication layer with all that informationIn both cases, you will have supplied a BOM which will generally make clear what the chip markings are, but in doubt, put it on a fabrication layer.

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2018, 12:21:10 pm
content: Quote from: OgreVorbis on May 08, 2018, 07:35:28 amAre you saying that your CAD software cannot export a Bill of Materials (BOM) in either comma separated or Excel format?Are you saying that you CAD software cannot export a pick & place file that specifies the exact location of the components on the PCB?

author: RomDump
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2018, 01:22:06 pm
content: Quote from: OgreVorbis on May 08, 2018, 07:35:28 amA Centroid data file is used for the Pick and Place machine. See if your CAD package can generate it. If not you may be able to create one from the Gerber file.

author: ThomasDK
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2018, 04:40:38 pm
content: According to the sprint website it can:Quote

author: xaxaxa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2018, 03:47:49 am
content: Yes, most (all) PCBA houses require a centroid file; it is a de-facto standard format and you can find specifications for it if you look it up. It's simply a text file that lists the x,y coordinates and rotation values for every component.The caveat is that some EDA packages don't generate centroid files properly even if it is claimed to be supported (gEDA is one of them, and I had to write my own software to parse the PCB file and output a centroid file). Be sure to manually check a few components of various rotations and compare the value in the generated file against the spec, especially for components on the bottom side of the board (gEDA fails here).
PCB Standoff Swage Tooling - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: spool_of_wire
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 12, 2018, 12:33:54 am
content: Hey I've been using this connector on a few of my PCBs as a standoff. It's called a swage connector and it's made by Keystone electronics.Here's a link to the part on Digikey:https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/keystone-electronics/5063-2/36-5063-2-ND/318484Here's the part on Keystone's site:http://www.keyelco.com/product.cfm/product_id/4670Now you can get some tooling for it - basically a kit and a separate tool that mounts to the arbor press and holds the lower part of the kit to the bottom of the an arbor press.Here's a link to the catalog page on Keystone's site toward the bottom corner you can see the tool you use to hit it with a hammer or arbor press to set it:http://keyelco.com/userAssets/file/M65p77.pdfHere's that same tool on Digikey:https://www.digikey.com/products/en?keywords=36-tl-21-ndAnd then I got this to attach to the bottom of the arbor press and hold the lower half of the staking tool:https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/keystone-electronics/1721/36-1721-ND/315613So I've been going along at a decent clip and my batches have gradually gotten larger and my arm has been getting more and more sore after each batch. After this past weekend I just decided pulling down on the arbor press over and over is a bear and I want to find a better way.I tried calling Keystone and they just said people use an arbor press. On one hand I think they're might be right but on the other that's probably just an easy answer and the support guy didn't want to ask what their high volume customers are using.What I'm looking for is anyone who could hopefully suggest some type of automated press that can crimp the swage connector for me. Low cost preferred, However more importantly is something that just works and is rather quick. If I could even get something that I poured the swage connectors in a bin and it automatically fed them into the press I'd be elated and who cares about cost.I'd prefer electric as I do these at home and don't want to create too much noise but if I had to use pneumatic I could. I just want something I buy once and use for years.I'm open to any and all suggestions and thanks for the help!-J

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2018, 01:47:48 am
content: You could go over to castboolits.gunloads.com and look up user named JM Morris, or something like that. He can automate anything with a dishwasher motor and a cam and a stick welder. But the problem with your application is that you have to position each board/standoff between presses and you probably just want one press controlled with a button, so's you don't crush the wrong thing.I think you might be using an arbor press without enough mechanical leverage for the job. Maybe you could post a pic or link or your arbor press and someone could suggest something better.
free shipping for assembly order  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ansonbao
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2018, 09:45:19 am
content: There are two good news I think is helpful for hobbyists here.1.From 2nd May to 2nd June,all PCBWay assembly order will enjoy free shipping (up to $35).Detailscheck here.2.The second news I think creators will interested in.In order to encourage more creators and help them save cost,any crowd funding projects (in Crowd Supply,Kickstarter or other place) assembly in PCBWay will enjoy 6% off(up to $300).And we will ensure the delivery time.Detailscheck hereI know everyone care about after-sales service and ever crazy with some irresponsible company. So we upgrade our system again this year, you can feedback to us in your PCBWay background directly,don't need to send mail or something,our after-sale team will contact with you.If it is our problem we will refund or reproduce for you.So you can concentrate on creating.

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 03, 2018, 04:37:20 pm
content: QuotePlease can you stop spamming this forum directly and indirectly.KindlyThe forum management!

author: Gary.M
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2018, 09:36:15 pm
content: Actually I'm happy to read this sort of announcement. It's hard to keep track of everything suppliers are doing or offering so I see this announcement as a benefit.

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 05, 2018, 01:18:46 pm
content: Quote from: Gary.M on May 03, 2018, 09:36:15 pmIt's yet another junkpost from the worst offenders of spam. PCB way are the bug bare of this forum. We get so many so called "reviews" for their services posted by newly created accounts because PCB way give them a discount on their next order for being little spam soldiers.Honestly given their behaviour I would never use them out of principle. This guy is so sure he is welcome he has registered from a yahoo email address. If i am registering to a website in the course of wy work I use the work address that my employer provides me with.What did you want to know about PCBs that half the forum can't answer? Unless you are working on something really special any PCB maker can make what an electrical CAD program is set up to do as standard.
chip1stop.com (Arrow company)? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: olkipukki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2018, 12:36:37 pm
content: Wondering if there is someone bought something from chip1stop.com that looks like Arrow company in Japan.

author: 48X24X48X
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2018, 04:47:22 am
content: Did my first order today after lurking around for years on their website. Not sure about the Arrow company subsidiary, but they are based in Japan. And if you look closely, some stock are taken from other distributors (Element-14, Newark, Arrow, etc) based on the stock count. The plus point buying from them is free shipping for orders above $100.

author: srce
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2018, 08:32:33 pm
content: 1 order. It arrived
Custom LCD Maker Needed - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: felangga
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 23, 2018, 02:44:32 am
content: Hello, I have this Casio PB 2000C which with defect LCD.I googled it for replacement but could not find one, because this thing has been discontinued years ago.If someone could build the similar one, can you contact me please ?

author: ebastler
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2018, 09:22:51 pm
content: A quick look on ebay (probably the most expensive place to buy these) shows offers for used PB2000C calculators around $300. You can certainly get them for less if you have some patience and look around. But even $300 is probably a fraction of what it would cost you to get a custom LCD made.So -- best to buy a replacement calculator. You could still transplant the display if the rest of the replacement unit is in worse shape than the one you have.

author: ALEXRA
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 28, 2018, 02:48:56 am
content: Wow ， Casio PB 2000C classic style

author: felangga
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 29, 2018, 07:20:12 am
content: Yeah $300 it's a lot of money for meHmm thanks for the advice, I hope someone sell for more cheaper price
Re-purposing a printed circuit board milling machine  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jmarkwolf
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 26, 2017, 07:24:41 pm
content: I have a very nice, like-new LPKF Protomat S62 CNC printed circuit milling machine complete, and I have no use for it.Not finding much interest for sale or trade.Can some suggest alternate uses for it?

author: rea5245
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 26, 2017, 07:32:04 pm
content: I'm surprised you can't sell it - especially if you're willing to ship it. For the right price, anything will sell. And while it might be galling to sell it at a low price, it's better than having it sit around, or repurposing it as something less valuable.- Bob

author: phil from seattle
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2018, 01:29:34 am
content: If it's basically a cnc machine then you could convert it to a laser cutter/etcher. Or use it to make PCB stencils.However, based on a few ebay ads, I'd try to sell it.

author: feysama
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 07, 2018, 07:54:49 am
content: Hi, there,I am a mechanical engineer and I work with CNC for bending machines. Basically, I work with European countries. Lately, I've been selling some machines in Africa. And some clients have written to me because it gives them strange cnc errors. I write in case someone has a little more information and can solve it without me having to go to Africa. I think it's because of some problem with the power adapter.https://www.feysama.com/plegadoras/plegadora-de-chapa/It's a CNC 630 Elgo for 4 axes and it's for 2.5a EU but with adaptator

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2018, 10:28:46 am
content: Not suprized its an LPKF and people have learned that they are very expensive and cna't do what they said they will do.
Through-hole pin length and PCB thickness - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: fitzgerald
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2017, 08:47:51 am
content: In general, how bad is it to have a through-hole component with a pin length (as measured from the PCB surface) smaller than the PCB thickness?I would like to mount a PCB flush to a substrate, so I cannot use pins sticking out. Unfortunately the component is only available as through hole. I did a check and I am able to hand solder the component with ease. Are there long-term issues to worry about?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2017, 09:03:13 am
content: Such solder joints are suspect for production purposes. They are hard to inspect (there's no fillet on the bottom, or it's hidden inside the barrel), and may have inferior strength (because there's no blob of solder holding them on the bottom, just a thin ring of copper).I've done this before: for THT pin tails, and SMT components, on the bottom side, place the board against a squishy thermal pad. This gives the heatsinking benefit of flush mounting, while maximizing usable board area for component placement, without compromising manufacturability.But it's all a lot of noise on the wind if you have no process and no standard to work to. One-offs? Lab boards? Do whatever you feel like. If it works, it works...Tim

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2017, 09:55:22 am
content: Well, It conforms IPC-A-610D section 7.5.3 Which states, that the minimum length of the lead is: "End is discernible in the solder." On Figure 7-97 the end of the lead is flush with the pad.

author: adih
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 25, 2018, 07:30:32 am
content: Is there a way, like adding a phase (countersink) to the hole from the bottom side (or counterbore) to make it fully comply with IPC 610?

author: ar__systems
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2018, 01:05:39 pm
content: Quote from: adih on April 25, 2018, 07:30:32 amYou can come with millions way to comply at the obscene cost.Maybe just use thinner PCB...

author: HHaase
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 27, 2018, 07:27:21 pm
content: For the OP, If you know the component is fully seated, and you have 100% hole fill, I wouldn't worry in the least.One thing to remember from the manufacturing world, customer requirements overrule IPC standards.IPC-610 is extremely useful to define build quality requirements between a manufacturer and a customerIt is not a legal requirement, it's a trade organization standard.Building for yourself, IPC is a good guideline to judge your work. But it's up to you what standards apply for acceptability.

author: ciccio
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2018, 04:55:45 pm
content: Why not solder on the component side? I've done this with prototypes whose PCB was made, due to a mistake, specular (they were single-side boards).It was not a problem soldering on the component side (all pins were accessible).You can trim the pins flush to under surface.No problem with durability and reliability.Best regards
Hi Flex cables for USB2.0 and USB3.0 options - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: glenenglish
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2018, 12:55:18 am
content: Having broken a cable now in the elbow of in my USB camera equipped TVM920 pnp, I have learned a bit about hi-flex cables.These are cables rated at millions of bend cycles on small radiiThere are a few sellers of cables, and EXCELLENT cables like jargy.com.tw ... and about USD135 for the USB3.0 3m cable. about USD35 for USB2.0 cable.There are a few high flex data cables like belden 7201 series etc for 485, CAN etc, 40 x 40 AWG strands... but these are quite lossy at 100 MHz... no good.Has anyone found a good high flex - (high strand, good jacket) option ?I thought of using some high flex Cat-7 ethernet cable (which will carry USB3 even with impedance mismatch) . if I can find some without having to buy 305 meters of it :-) .. Most Cat7 cables have cheap jackets unsuited and 7x0.16 strands, also unsuited .options , ideas, discussioncheersglen

author: wraper
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 25, 2018, 01:35:07 am
content: Original cables for mobile phones usually are quiet good in this regard (except apple). I guess decent aftermarket ones could be too. I use them as a source for repairing some devices where cable gets bent a lot. It is hard find a comparable bare cable without connectors. BTW why would you need USB3.0 ?. It has 4 additional wires which you won't use anyway.

author: glenenglish
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2018, 02:36:22 am
content: those cables are all crap.need to be < 36 AWG in diameter per strand.USB 3.0 if you want low latency and high frame rates (with at least megapixel res)

author: wraper
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 26, 2018, 10:34:19 am
content: Quote from: glenenglish on April 25, 2018, 02:36:22 amWhy do you think they have thicker strands? Most such cables have a big number of strands much thinner than that. On the other hand, USB A to B cables have very few thick strands as they are not intended to be plugged daily.
Core Electronics offering low cost milled PCBs for AUS/NZ - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cravenhaven
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2018, 09:44:15 pm
content: https://core-electronics.com.au/service-pcb-milling-1-layer-up-to-10cm-x-12cm.htmlFrom $6.95 for 100x120mm