hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Software that generates C code from blocks - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: LootMaster
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2020, 04:23:48 am
content: https://atoms.scilab.org/toolboxes/xcos_stm32_toolbox/1.1Free option to Simulink code generationThat guy made work something very cool and useful and free/legal, George small did it.I cant even install minGW in scilab 5.5.2Can anybody install this package, minGW and then STM32 toolbox.Can send patron support for the one who shows me how to install this in Win10.People....they are things that cant be coded easily... like advanced control loops for instance....for motors...drones...walking robots....etcTry out Scilab...Its 80% of mathlab and free.https://atoms.scilab.org/toolboxes/mingw/0.9.3I think I found it guys, Perrier Olivier commented here on a trick.Plz help...

author: LootMaster
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2020, 07:53:27 pm
content: Its expensive...Simulink+ all the other toolboxes....Let the frenchmen do it for freeeeeeee….Witness the transformation...From broke to boss.Lets start exploring that software... Yeah...Add some follow through and technique today in your life...For freeeeeeeeeeee

author: LootMaster
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2020, 07:33:54 pm
content: Anybody wanna try?

author: pardo-bsso
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2020, 04:34:29 pm
content: Hi LootMaster,what have you tried so far?Do you really really need it to work with win10 ?

author: LootMaster
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2020, 06:21:01 pm
content: helloYes, really really.Cant stand Linux., and I paid 150$ for this win 10 key.

author: LootMaster
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2020, 06:56:04 pm
content: I think I was confused tho, I dont think you NEED that toolbox.I dont really know what that STM32 adds to thishttps://www.enib.fr/~kerhoas/pmsm_cours_index.htmlhttps://x2c.lcm.at/downloads/He says you can now use scilab instead of expensive solution.Hes a good professor.Whatever setup he's got, I want... I wanna put those .c and .h inside a Cubemx generated project...So I can continue with "the easy way".I wanna have that working workflow 5.5.2 install wich does the job for most things and be making my own "blocks" for free, without license.Just like the professor....I wanna be Mr Smartypants, plz help

author: LootMaster
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2020, 01:01:08 pm
content: bump

author: Renate
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 11, 2020, 12:23:22 pm
content: Well, I think that you've just confused everybody who has come across this thread.You've thrown so much stuff at us.Is the problem that you can't compile this "toolbox" which is only distributed in source format (although it says that that there is a binary)?That's some source code, C, Java & FORTRAN???
Spectrum of PWM at various % duty cycles - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: ricko_uk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 25, 2021, 09:55:51 pm
content: Hi,just a curiosity as math is not my forte...Using the FFT formula shown in the screenshot below (found on various websites), I made a quick excel sheet to display the harmonics of a PWM signal at various duty cycles.The formula does not have the absolute sign but obviously it should have. By not using the absolute sign some harmonics go negative at some point. And I was just wondering if anything happens at those frequencies/points. Perhaps some phase shift or something else?Thank you
Software to draw electrical schematics projects - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: Jasonbit
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2018, 11:58:50 pm
content: Hello folks,I am looking for a software to draw and test my electric projects. I use AutoCad with my library components to draw my schematics electrics but I want find another option software. I am looknig for a option software which runs on Windows, or Linux, and be free free. What do you suggest?Thanks

author: maginnovision
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2018, 12:16:00 am
content: KiCad or Eagle.

author: Jasonbit
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2018, 12:31:09 am
content: Thanks to your reply,To Linux i found this software:https://qelectrotech.org/I'm looking for something easy to use and light. Because I don't new a big and complex software. I am a newbie guy and I am starting step by step. Therefore I need a basic symbology, at least for now!Thanks

author: JustMeHere
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2018, 12:33:13 am
content: Eagle

author: HackedFridgeMagnet
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2018, 03:53:05 am
content: Lt Spice will give a quick clear schematic if its just standard electronic components.You can simulate your circuit as a bonus!

author: Docara
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2018, 11:57:40 am
content: HiI don't use it but have a look at Diptrace.For basic entry of components and connections it seems straight forward to use.There is a free version for 300 pins, register as non profit and that goes up to 500. Then 1000pins for USD125Non profit priceshttps://diptrace.com/buy/non-profit/I've also come over from Acad and though KiCAD is brilliant I find it's GUI a right royal PITA, I'm perserfering with it for pure functionality and library reasons, and wishing I could afford Altium (as we all do)Depending on your requirements, I would suggest you seriously look at Kicad for what else it brings to the party. It is one of the major players so PCB houses have information on their requirements and symbol libraies and footprints are relatively easy to find.Matt

author: Le_Bassiste
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2018, 02:13:39 pm
content: did anybody notice that TO is actually asking for software to drawelectricprojects, rather than electronic projects?

author: SiliconWizard
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2018, 02:31:07 pm
content: Indeed, then qelectrotech seems a good fit for their needs. It's actually available not only on Linux, but also Windows and MacOS.

author: GeorgeOfTheJungle
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2018, 02:54:56 pm
content: https://easyeda.com/

author: bob225
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2018, 03:21:19 pm
content: If its electrical diagrams eg. layouts - Microsoft Visio works very well for that sort of thing, inkscape also does it
Software to print .eps files under Windows XP? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: Chris Wilson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2013, 01:54:11 pm
content: I very infrequently need to print .eps files to transparent media to create printed circuit boards. I last did it using an older version of Paint Shop Pro, but its trial expired. Whilst I know I am tight, buying it to use twice a year seems a bit excessive. Is there any free software to do this under Windows? Ghostscript (or is it Ghostview?) apparently does it, but I am told it's a nightmare to install and get working. Thanks.

author: Crazy Ape
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2013, 02:01:22 pm
content: This says it will convert eps to other more common formats.http://epsviewer.org

author: Crazy Ape
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2013, 02:09:44 pm
content: I just clicked a .eps file in my file browser (on Linux) and it opened up in Evince, which has a print option.You could try the Windows version of Evince:https://wiki.gnome.org/Apps/Evince/Downloads

author: Chris Wilson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2013, 06:13:13 pm
content: Evince doesn't print .eps under Windows, I asked on the support forum. BUT, I found a one version newer set of plug ins for irfanView and it's showing and printing .eps files in the correct size! Sorted, thanks all! I have used Irfan View for years, it seems it has only just gotten this sorted. Free as well, although I made a donation as it's so damned good. Cheers.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2013, 07:11:13 pm
content: I would think Paint.NET would do that.

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2013, 09:41:30 pm
content: Adobe Illustrator does the job, i get the slight feeling it may be overkill for what you're looking for though...

author: Chris Wilson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2013, 10:47:48 pm
content: Quote from: peter.mitchell on November 28, 2013, 09:41:30 pmErr, just a bit, yes

author: Chris Wilson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2013, 10:48:49 pm
content: Quote from: Stonent on November 28, 2013, 07:11:13 pmNot heard of that, will Google, thanks.

author: Crazy Ape
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2013, 11:15:00 pm
content: A web based option.http://www.go2convert.com

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2013, 11:45:50 pm
content: Perhaps GIMP (the free Photoshop) can do it.

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 29, 2013, 05:37:08 am
content: tried adobe (free) acrobat? my pro version open "simulated eps" just fine. open->file->all files (*.*)

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 29, 2013, 12:06:00 pm
content: Quote from: nctnico on November 28, 2013, 11:45:50 pmTryInkScape, the free Illustrator. It's definitely support EPS.
Software wanted for the (rather old) Maplin N56FU multimeter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: Kintekobo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2015, 08:57:37 pm
content: I have a need to do some long term data logging and was going to drag my old Maplin N65FU multimeter out but I can't find the software for it anywhere. I am hoping that someone on this forum has a copy that they can send me.I found a posting somewhere that said that it was a badged version of a Chinese meter and I downloaded the software for that meter and it looked absolutely identical. When I tried it it just didn't display any data which was odd because I could see the meter pumping the stuff out if I connected a terminal program to it. Turns out that the meter runs at 2400 baud and the software at 4800 - bugger!And there is no way of changing it.So if anyone has the Maplin software I would be mega grateful.

author: rolycat
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2015, 09:17:55 pm
content: That was probably thereview and teardown of an N56FUI posted here a few months ago.PM me with your email address and I will send a copy of the software.

author: Kintekobo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2015, 09:44:02 pm
content: Thanks Rolycat. Just PM'd you. I should have tried here first rather than wasting at a conservative estimate five hours searching the web.

author: r6boss
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 13, 2024, 07:56:49 pm
content: i am try to locate the software for this multimeter is there any chance anyone still have this software

author: ScoopDogg
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 12, 2024, 03:09:10 pm
content: 100% THIS IS THE RAR FILES HERE :https://www.eserviceinfo.com/download_start.php?downloadurlid=212277https://www.eserviceinfo.com/downloadsm/212277/Precision%20Gold_N56FU.htmlsoftware here click link at bottom of pagehttps://davehigton.me.uk/Progs/N56FU.htmand this is needed toohttps://n56fu-communication-program.updatestar.com/pt

author: coromonadalix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2024, 03:14:24 pm
content: WILL RUN ON RISC OS NOT WINDOWSand some try to get lots of $$$ for them on ebay wowTHIS IS THE ONE NEEDED, drivers and program same link as previous lolll just installed on a x64 win10 ...https://www.eserviceinfo.com/downloadsm/212277/Precision%20Gold_N56FU.htmland a manual attached herehttps://www.eserviceinfo.com/downloadsm/62597/Gold_EM6000.html

author: ScoopDogg
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 12, 2024, 03:20:35 pm
content: sorry wrong filehttps://community.silabs.com/s/article/downloading-cp210x-drivers-from-windows-update?language=en_USive got them on my computer i just need to work out how to upload the zip files, gimme a minute

author: coromonadalix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2024, 03:24:55 pm
content: warningsome cp2xxx drivers and or chipset may not work under win 10 and win 11 ??
SOIC-14 to TSSOP-14 adapter, any suggestions? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: AndersJ
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2019, 12:42:07 pm
content: I want to test a TSSOP-14 quad OP on a board made for SOIC-14.Q1: Are adaptors available?Q2: For new designs, considering future availablity, what package size is best?
SOIC chip adapters - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: tylerl
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2013, 06:35:08 am
content: SMT is great for production and arguably easier to solder, but not so hot for breadboarding. Sure you can get equivalent DIP chips for test, but "equivalent" can be problematic, plus you're duplicating parts. A common practice work working with SOIC chips is to solder it down to a breakout board; but that can be terrifically inconvenient if you're swapping your chips around a lot.So trolling around for a better solution, I came acrossthis little gemon Deal Extreme. SOP16 to DIP16 in a ZIF socket for just under $10. Not bad. But really a 24-bin version would be better, and maybe I could get some better options on digikey/mouser etc.So a quick search to seewhat I can findand ... HOLY MOTHER OF ... er, I mean, $80 is a bit much for just a socket, right?So, what solution do you use for this type of thing? Any hidden gems I'm not seeing?

author: Harvs
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2013, 06:49:06 am
content: Just order an extra couple of extra chips when you're buying them and solder them down to break out boards.I just etch my own break out boards and use pin headers so they can plug into a bread board.I actually don't find this inconvenient at all. I imagine buying a socketed break out board that can only accept one package would be far more inconvenient.But the reality is I usually find that if I'm using something that I can't easily get in a DIP package, then signal integrity for those type of chips will mean I need to etch a board to test a real circuit anyway.Instead of concentrating on making bread boarding easier, I find you're better off concentrating on making etching PCBs easier.

author: andyturk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2013, 07:53:08 am
content: Better?

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2013, 08:51:31 am
content: I've made a bunch of those shown in the picture myself. They can easily be fabricated at home (obviously no need for 2nd layer). I've also made ones especially for single and dual opamps with a place feedback resistors/decoupling/offset trimpot.You can make a few dozens of those in a single run.
SOIC package current capability - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: hamdi.tn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 30, 2014, 04:06:30 am
content: Hi everyone, so i was looking around in farnell for some hall effect sensor and i so this ACS758 it's SOIC package and it claim to handle 30A ... the more bizarre for me is this PFF package and it's suppose to take 200A !!!! is that possible for those pin !

author: martinjaymckee
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 30, 2014, 04:31:29 am
content: The PFF package route the current through the large ( bar-like ) pins toward the top. According to the datasheet, the resistance of this current path is 100 micro-ohms. At 200A, that would give a total voltage drop of 0.02V, and a total power dissipation of 4W. The thermal resistance is 7 degrees-C/W, so at 200W, its temperature should increase about 28 degrees-C. So, yes, I would say that it's entirely reasonable to say it can handle the 200A -- with the caveat that you are able to connect wires to this thing in a reasonable manner that doesn't have substantially more resistance ( which is no small feat ).The SOIC package is similar. It has a resistance across the load path of 1.2 milli-ohm. Short answer -- these aren't standard SOIC packages with pins and bonding wire. Trust the datasheet, they work.Martin Jay McKee

author: Marco
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 30, 2014, 04:32:29 am
content: The SOIC has a slab of copper internally and the leads are short and it uses 2 of them for each terminal.As for the PFF, the leads are 6mm2 even if the connection is made at the extreme end (ie. 10mm) that will only add an extra ~200 uOhm.

author: qwaarjet
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 01, 2014, 04:29:43 am
content: I have used both of those packages in various projects never had any problem with heating even near the current limits.

author: hamdi.tn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 01, 2014, 07:13:03 am
content: that's reassuringanyway i added the PFF one to my design , will try it soon, thanks

author: Jeroen3
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 01, 2014, 07:59:39 am
content: LFpak mosfets are also capable of high currents. Through 3 pins similar to soic.Interesting document:http://www.nxp.com/documents/leaflet/939775016838_LR.pdf
Sola constant voltage transformer to clean up UPS output?? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: CaptDon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2022, 05:18:03 pm
content: Have any of you tried one of those Sola ferroresonant constant voltage transformers to convert the crappy waveform of a UPS to a semi-sinewave? Did it work or is the harmonic distortion on the input to the Sola so bad that the output gets weird? I can say one thing about the C.V. transformers run from small R.V. type gasoline generators, Don't Do It!!! Our Onan generator on our mobile broadcast studio had so much frequency shift with changing loads that the voltage varied WILDLY!!! Like 80 to 170 kind of wild with just a 2hz frequency shift up or down. Also, when run lightly loaded they seem to really waste a lot of heat in the transformer core.

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2022, 06:24:35 pm
content: I haven't tried but I think you're going to experience similar problems. If you want a sine wave my suggestion is to buy a pure sine UPS, they exist and are often marketed as PFC compatible.

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2022, 06:34:05 pm
content: I think the problem is that the input impedance characteristics of those 'voltage stabilizers' are horrific with or without a load, so whatever is driving it needs to be extremely 'stout', so to speak. A typical modified-sine UPS or inverter generator is not going to like them very much.

author: TimFox
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2022, 07:01:33 pm
content: I'm not familiar with their current line-up, but back in the day they had two different types: "harmonic-neutralized" and something else. Both would maintain the output voltage reasonably constant at a voltage that depends on frequency, and had to be purchased for either 50 or 60 Hz. The harmonic-neutralized types put out a reasonable sine wave, and the others were better for driving a rectifier.From their current catalog, the "CSV" series and "MCR" series are both specified for 3% THD.https://solahevidutysales.com/pdf/powerconditioners/cvs.pdfhttps://solahevidutysales.com/pdf/powerconditioners/mcr.pdfDue to their frequency dependence, they are probably not a good choice for following a generator with an unstable frequency.

author: TheMG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2022, 08:14:49 pm
content: The logical solution is to get a UPS with a pure sine wave output. Lots of them around can be purchased second hand for cheap.A modified sine wave UPS may not like the ferroresonant transformer. Also they are big, heavy, and rather inefficient at low loads.I'm sure there must be some niche applications where a ferro would be suitable, but generally these days a modern double-conversion UPS does a much better job of stabilizing voltage (and frequency!) at much better efficiency and smaller size than a ferro. Only advantage I can really see to a ferro is low EMI/RFI and robustness.
Solar *AND* regulated DC power source to charge LiFePO4 battery - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: davegravy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 11, 2024, 12:54:49 am
content: I want to design a power management system for my device that will charge its 12V LiFePO4 battery from either solar (with MPPT) or 15VDC, intelligently selecting whichever is available and gracefully handling situations where both are present.From my research lots of battery management ICs support MPPT, lots support a 15VDC source, some support 12V LiFePO4, but I haven't found any that do multiple sources. I also haven't seen anything that provides MPPT but doesn't also integrate battery charging control.I need up to 5A charge current, and it would be nice to have coulomb counting accessible to my MCU but I believe I could use a discrete fuel gauge IC for that.How should I start thinking about this?
Solar 'battery farm' project I'm thinking about - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: philbx1
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2012, 07:44:40 am
content: Hi all,Just in the early stages of thinking about a 'battery farm' - mostly related to RC models after..1. Seeing Bruce's - RCMR on eevblog forum - videos on FPV (First Person View) from RC aircraftref.RCMR Youtube channelRCMR website2. Getting a sampleLT3652solar charging IC from Linear Technology3. Having various types of batteries around like SLA, Li-ion & Li-poly4. Thinking now that so many RC hobbyists are using Li-poly batteries a portable charging station may be required in future.So, the idea is that a microcontroller manages charging from a solar panel (or AC if available) and, using a 'module'based on the LT3652 charge each battery in the 'farm'.Naturally the micro would hold all the charging parameters for each battery and allocate resources as required.This would be a 12v DC based system due to requirements for a video receiver and DC up-converter for a laptop etc.A common regulator would be used on the 12v out 'bus', and each battery would be connected into this bus usinga fast diode (like a BY229) for drain protection.Anyway, before I get too far into this, thought I might run the idea by you guys.BTW, hoping Bruce doesn't mind me referring to his sites, and I must say it's they are worthlooking at even though you might not be an RC hobbyist.

author: ilikepez
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2012, 09:11:10 am
content: That would be kinda cool. I already use a battery charger that hooks up to car batteries for my battery pack charging. I can imagine that some hobbyists would be interested in having a solar system to take out in the field.
Solar array, grid goes down, RCD tripped, no recovery. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: PiotrMisiuna
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2021, 07:10:30 pm
content: A friend approached me with a following question:he has a solar array with an inverter, powering house and sending surplus back to the grid.In an event of grid power shortage, the main RCD gets instantly tripped and has to be reset manually.Is there a way to detect power shortage and isolate inner grid proceeding the main RCD actuation, and automatically reconnect after detecting power get restored?Nothing can be connected before the RCD.I assume, that RCD tripping is here a feature, aiming to protect people working on the grid from presence of stray power.Probably there already exist a solution, never the less I was considering using current sensing clamps like Dave showed in the video about solar analytics.Somehow sense the difference between the two and trip a relay(probably solid state) connected right after the RCDGive me your thoughts.

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2021, 08:02:10 pm
content: How is all of this connected together? Is the RCD part of the standard panel as supplied by the utility, or is it part of the solar installation? The way houses are wired varies quite a bit around the world, which may affect your answer. When you say "grid power shortage", are you talking about a blackout, where the utility supply goes out entirely, or a "brownout", where the utility voltage sags significantly under load?Depending on what is actually causing the RCD to trip, and whether that's a deliberate feature (I think a lot of--maybe most/all?--domestic PV inverters won't operate if they don't detect grid power anyway for safety reasons, and maybe the RCD is deliberately tripped to isolate the PV install for the same reason?), maybe a phase monitoring system that can detect an impending or partial utility power failure and isolate the panel from the utility supply before the utility equipment cuts out would help. Commercial/Industrial power systems use these to protect equipment or begin transferring to backup power in case of a utility undervoltage or partial phase loss. There's a wide range of options for various voltage ranges/phase counts/feature requirements. Random example:https://www.littelfuse.com/products/protection-relays-and-controls/protection-relays/voltage-monitoring-relays.aspx

author: PiotrMisiuna
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2021, 09:34:24 pm
content: I am talking about RCD in the standard supplier utility. I haven't seen the installation for myself yet, but Cyprus grid and solar design standards would be closest to the one in the UK.Yes I mean blackout.As to PV, I assume my friend is able to run it independent... I guess..somehow... Why would he askI need to do my homework before I continue asking questions..
Solar cell manufacturer for electronics - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2018, 09:29:09 am
content: I'm working on electronics, which could potentially integrate solar cells to extend battery life. Small cells built into the device, 40mm-ish in size. I'm looking for manufacturers for these kind of cells, do you have any recommendation? They should be reputable western or Japanese cells with complete datasheet, not the Shenzhen special. Price is secondary concern, if it is reasonable. The product is now (without the cells) IP69K compliant (and ATEX). And perhaps monocrystalline cells would work better, but I'm not picky at the moment.I know IXYS and Panasonic has these kind of cells.Do you know others?Or a distributor for these kind of cells?

author: janekm
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 31, 2018, 09:37:00 am
content: Sharp is another, though I believe they specialise in indoor cells.With this type of item you may find prototype quantities on the major distributors but it is usually a better idea to ask the manufacturer for their preferred distributor in your country who should be able to give you an idea of more realistic volume pricing.

author: dxmonger
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 06, 2018, 09:25:15 pm
content: Have you checked out the small solar modules from PowerFilm Solar?Made in the USA, low-light versions, etc.

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2018, 07:13:13 am
content: Quote from: dxmonger on June 06, 2018, 09:25:15 pmNo but I'll probably contact them, because it looks interesting.

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2018, 06:44:39 am
content: Note to self:Trony makes solar cells.http://www.trony.com/html/

author: janekm
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 09, 2018, 12:13:49 pm
content: Quote from: NANDBlog on June 09, 2018, 06:44:39 amPretty good ones for embedded applications, at that.Imagine my surprise at finding their cells in the £1 solar garden lights in "Poundland". I needed decent solar cells of that size for a wild horse tracking project, so I proceeded to buy out everything I could get from the local branches since they were much better than anything I could get from the usual lot (Digikey, Mouser, Farnell...)
solar cell search update - found! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: KTP
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2010, 06:33:18 pm
content: hi guys,I think I have found the answer to my quest for a high efficiency multijunction solar cell/panel for some low power microcontroller designs. The new panel I was just sampled is a pre-production prototype made up of 10 cells and is fracking amazing. It is super thin, light and small, but not really fragile. It is about 3.6 grams, a little smaller than a business card (and about twice as thick) and produces over 5V at 80mA in full sun! In a indoor room with a single 100 watt bulb 8 feet away it produced 156uW at 2.75V....a surplus of power for something like the MSP430. I have a polycrystaline panel about 8 times as heavy and 50% larger which doesn't produce 1/3 this power!I only have the one sample, but full production is supposed to start this year, but that probably really means maybe these will be available next year sometime.

author: TopherTheME
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2010, 08:56:00 pm
content: Very nice. Any info about the price?

author: KTP
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2010, 09:21:40 pm
content: not really any price info, except that they may need to be purchased in cases of 500 or so

author: TopherTheME
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2010, 04:04:34 pm
content: Quote from: KTP on September 13, 2010, 09:21:40 pmEEV blog group buy anyone?

author: JohnS_AZ
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2010, 04:08:42 pm
content: QuoteI've heard that a few hundred times in my career.But... if they do manage to get into production, I'd be interested in a few.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 16, 2010, 11:13:48 pm
content: Quote from: JohnS_AZ on September 16, 2010, 04:08:42 pmOnly a few hundred?Dave.

author: rossmoffett
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2010, 07:36:19 pm
content: A similar panel is already available, though it may be a bit larger than what you've described. I'm looking for one to power some bright LEDs at night and I think this is the one for me.http://www.adafruit.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=44&products_id=262
Solar Charge Controller / USB Power Regulator - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: olsenn1
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 22, 2018, 12:12:38 am
content: I have two folding solar chargers:1. Instapark Mercury 10 -- 10 Watt dedicated USB charger2. Powerfilm F12-750 -- 12 Watt 15.4V chargerWhen I connect the Mercury 10 to my electronic load at CV (5V) I get 1.0 Amp of current (5W) and this is the most I can reliably push out of this. However, when I connect my Powerfilm charger via a switching buck converter (8-24V to 5V USB) to the same e-load under the same lighting conditions, I get 0.5 Amp (2.5W) at CV 5V. This is in line with what my devices charge at when I plug them into this USB port. However, I can switch the e-load to CC 1 Amp and get the same 1A@5V output of this solar panel this way.Obviously my solar panel is capable of outputting more power than it is. Does anyone know what I could do to fix this? Would a MPPT charge controller do the trick (or is this just for ensuring against overcharge of lead-acid batteries)?Thanks!

author: paulclark
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 22, 2018, 01:03:13 pm
content: Hey there,If under the same lighting conditions (No shadows on solar cells), one possibility is that the switching buck converter makes the solar efficiency down. My suggestion is to have a solar controller to make it suitable for your e-load.This Hovall solar phone charger is good for all USB devices and laptops.https://www.hovall.com/product/solar-phone-charger/Paul
Solar charge IC... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: Precisiontools
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2013, 11:01:05 am
content: Hi all.Am looking into developing a device for a customer. It's 12V, low wattage solar with external mains charger if required. Have been looking at the range of buck/boost charger ICs from various companies...is anyone working in this particular field at the moment? What's the hot product for buck and boost + MPPT? I'm getting lost in data sheets!Cheers

author: Jay_Diddy_B
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2013, 04:22:33 am
content: Hi,Have a look at this:http://cds.linear.com/docs/LT%20Journal/LTJournal-V22N2-01-df-LT3796-XinQi.pdfInstead of Buck-Boost look at the SEPIC configuration.Jay_Diddy_B

author: Precisiontools
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2013, 08:18:12 am
content: Thanks Jay_Diddy, looks interesting will look into it.
Solar charger regulator IC recommendations - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: DTJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2016, 12:38:19 pm
content: I'm looking for suggestions on a building block for putting together a solar panel supplied charging circuit for a small SLA battery.Solar panel detailsPmax = 0.5WVo = 3V nominal outputIsc = 160mAThe battery is a small12V SLA.A quick look around shows lots of options from guys like Linear but nothing jumps out as being particularly suitable. I'm hoping to find something I can just build and use.Suggestions?

author: DTJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2016, 01:14:01 am
content: No takers?It seems the low solar panel voltage complicates things. I'm going to see if I can find a panel with a higher output voltage, say 9 - 15V.

author: ZeTeX
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2016, 04:20:04 am
content: Quote from: DTJ on June 08, 2016, 01:14:01 amWhats the battery capacity? I think just a constant current driver to charge the battery will be fine, you might be able to use even LM317 as a constant current circuit.

author: qwaarjet
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2016, 05:04:52 am
content: I've had success with using the LTC4000-1

author: DTJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2016, 07:49:03 am
content: Quote from: ZeTeX on June 08, 2016, 04:20:04 amMost likely 4.5AH, worked out as the minimum capacity to keep the thing alive for 3 or 4 days if the sun goes out.It needs a little more than a '317. The solar voltage is low (3V perhaps) and needs stepping up to charge a 12V SLA.

author: DTJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2016, 07:50:23 am
content: Quote from: qwaarjet on June 08, 2016, 05:04:52 amI'm working my way through Linears range. I've yet to find something that satisfies all the requirements.

author: SaabFAN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2016, 12:18:32 pm
content: Linear has quite a good range of Charging-ICs that incorporate the Power-FETs and are available in easy to solder packages.They are intended for Lithium-Batteries, but Lead Acid Accumulators require the same Constant Current / Constant Voltage Charging-Profile.In your case I would suggest a design with a SEPIC configuration, because with that you basically aren't limited to a specific voltage-range, which would allow charging from different solar-panels and wall-adaptors.Also choose one that has an undervolt-lockout or MPP-Input to operate the solar-panel at its Maximum Power-Point.

author: DTJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2016, 01:29:31 pm
content: Quote from: SaabFAN on June 08, 2016, 12:18:32 pmThanks, I'll look more into the SEPIC arrangement. Linear certainly seem to be the main players.Its hard to find a low cost 12V sub 2W panel so I'm now looking at putting a couple of smaller panels in series.
Solar charger - TL494 and what transistor? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: Artlav
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2014, 10:46:44 pm
content: Good evening.I want to charge a supercapacitor bank from a solar panel.The panel gives max power of about 0.5A at 32V, so the charger should track it's input voltage.The output should go down to zero and up to about 30V as the bank charges, with no need to explicitly limit output A or V.To that effect i made this little circuit:Q1 is TIP32C.Problem is, i'm not sure what transistor to pick, or how to drive it.It works as shown, but R2 gets hot.If i make it a darlington, and put a 10k resistor, then the transistor gets hot.I can't use a FET, since i can't figure out how to (simply enough) drive it within +-20Vgs limit.Should i use a transistor with higher gain, and higher R?Some sort of darlington arrangement?Is there a simple way to use a FET in there?Maybe there are other design flaws?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2014, 11:56:18 pm
content: See the example here:http://www.fairchildsemi.com/ds/KA/KA7500C.pdfSame chip, different number.Note the B-E resistor which improves BJT turn-off, and yes, the series resistor (an even lower value in this example) will get hot.To drive a MOSFET, try a bootstrap type driver IC, or build a level shift circuit. You can use N or P channel types here.TL494 is quite old and not the best choice for this application.Tim

author: mariush
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2014, 12:32:22 am
content: Why not just use existing ICs likeLT3652?Does everything you need except only up to 18v output:QuoteCan be adapted to charge banks of capacitors but alternatively, you can just pick another ic that does supercap charging:http://www.linear.com/parametric/Supercapacitor_Chargers

author: Artlav
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2014, 01:18:53 am
content: Quote from: mariush on June 12, 2014, 12:32:22 amTL494 is available in any store for spare change, LT-anything would have to be shipped across continents.Quote from: T3sl4co1l on June 11, 2014, 11:56:18 pmYes, that is what i used as a reference.The series resistor dissipates 1W of heat, and does this constantly during all the time the capacitors are sitting there charged full.My main question was - how to avoid that extra heat dissipation, aka how to improve efficiency?Meanwhile, added the B-E resistor, with no noticeable effect on heat.Also added output current limiting, since the thing should actually survive something close to indefinite short circuit.
Solar charger - will simulation software detect tendency to oscillate? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: Peabody
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 24, 2021, 05:48:16 pm
content: The circuit shown below is an attempt to add a "load sharing" (aka "power path") function to a TP4056 charger powered from solar panels. The addition of D2 and D3 to the typical USB-powered circuit are an attempt to deal with the varying voltage provided by solar panels. Without them, there's a range of intermediate voltages which result in the battery powering the load through the mosfet's body diode - the mosfet gate voltage doesn't drop enough to turn it on. D2 reduces the gate voltage a little so it will turn on sooner, and D3 provides a lower Vf path than the body diode when some current still takes that route.I don't have any solar panels, so have had to test the circuit using an adjustable regulator, and it works ok. But I'm concerned that with the higher impedance of solar panels, there may be a tendency to oscillate. For example, when the solar voltage drops to the point that the battery starts providing power, the reduced load on the solar panels may cause their output voltage to bounce back high, and that scenario would repeat in an oscillation pattern. Of course it might not do that - it might go directly to equilibrium at each level of solar illumination. But I don't know how to figure out which is true, and don't have the panels available to physically test it.So I'm wondering whether simulation softare would expose any tendency to oscillate. I just told you everything I know about such software. I've never used it. But it seems that would be asking a lot of such software.If that's not a good idea, can I effectively duplicate the behavior of solar panels by inserting resistance into the output of my regulator? (I also just told you everything I know about solar panels - I've never used them.) Or are such panels suffciently strange that that won't work.Well, I've obviously wandered far afield from my already-limited expertise, but it would be nice to have a hobbyist-friendly solution for this so the load current doesn't have to flow through, and be limited by, the charger.
Solar Charging various vehicle batteries - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: mendip_discovery
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2021, 04:54:44 pm
content: So I have a bit of a collection of motorcycles, and I have a shed that is remote that has few in there. I have already added, WiFi, Motion-sensitive security cameras etc using a Solar panel and a charge controller.I would like to set up some sort of charging system for the vehicles in the shed but I am stuck on a way forward.The cameras, wifi etc all run off two old UPS batteries I have and they are charged by the solar controller. The controller has outputs for USB and 12V and does all the nice stuff for charging the battery.Options are,Use an inverter to run off the battery, use a 2 or 4 way NoCo charger to charge bike batteries (seems a waste of energy)Connect batteries to the main battery and just hope the 10A charger can cope with all the batteries even if one is dyingSame as above but with a nice fat diode to prevent them from trying to balance each other outBoost-Buck converters to take the 12V and up it to 14 or so for charging, connected to relays and an Arduino to do the switching and set it only to charge them for a few hours a day etc. So it goes, 1961 Matchless G3LS, 1957 AJS M16, Yamaha TY80, TY175, TTR250, TRX850 x 3, YZF-R6, RD125LC, DT125LC, Kawasaki KLR650, GasGas JTX250, R100GS PD, BSA Starfire, Montesa Impala, Ducati 600 Monster.Renogy Wander 10

author: NiHaoMike
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2021, 12:49:45 am
content: Just do a parallel connection with fuses to guard against overcurrent.
Solar LED Heart Ornament (SPV1040 + Supercapacitor + Ring-Oscillator) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: ANTALIFE
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 26, 2018, 04:30:17 am
content: Made a wee solar powered ornament that uses an ST SPV1040 to charge a supercapacitor (AVX SCMS22C255PRBA0) during the day, and a ring oscillator (at 59mHz) to drive an LED during the night.For more info (component selection, simulation, characterization...) see:https://www.antalife.com/2018/11/project-solar-led-heart-ornament.html
Solar output to Riden RD6024 for use as solar charge controller - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: Kosh A. Magosh
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 23, 2024, 10:36:02 am
content: I was kicking around ideas to have a programmable buck boost charge controller so that I can charge various batteries and systems from one device and it’s occurred to me that my Riden RD6024 is already quite capable of meeting most of my charging needs.I currently have 4x100W of solar that I configure as 2S2P in order to get 40V at 10A when performing optimally. This is a portable set up that I use for dip netting Copper River salmon in Chitina, AK, as well as hunting or other remote applications.I have a Bluetti AC180 that can accept any voltage between 12V and 60V. I have a 100Ah Litime “12V” lifepo battery that I use to feed the Bluetti at night. It will supply 100W when plugged into the same Bluetti input as the solar.I would like to use the solar to charge the lifepo battery at 14.6V, but also use it to charge my 48V nominal/54.6V lithium ion e-bike batteries and possibly others.I have used the Bluetti to power the Riden RD6024 in order to charge the lifepo battery, but I suspect I lose a fair amount of efficiency and felt that it made more sense to go directly from DC solar to some form of buck boost and then to the lithium batteries.My long-winded query is this:Is my loss from going from DC to AC and back to DC again negligible and nothing to worry about?Can I put variable (i.e. solar) DC voltage input into the Riden power supply in order to charge different batteries?Would a form of MPPT or buck boost converter be necessary? I have considered the MPT-7210A, which I assume could just be set to output the 70V that is normally provided by the AC transformer of the Riden, although something that was capable of directing closer to 1500W might be optimal for future expansion and to fully utilize the RD6024.Would I need to be concerned about some level of low voltage cut off, or other protection, to prevent damaging the solar panels?What would be a safe way to configure the power supply, in order to have it possible to switch between AC and DC input? I’m imagining a killswitch that switches between one source of DC power or the other.My apologies if that is a lot to unpack. I saw a previous thread about differing the power supplies on the RD6024 about a year ago and was hoping to hear what people have learned.I’ve always been impressed by the knowledge base on this forum!Thanks!