hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Any butan gas for my Weller Pyropen? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mr Simpleton
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 12, 2017, 02:50:29 pm
content: I was discussing butan gas driven soldering pens with a friend when he mentioned that his Weller Pyropen had a problem, and when requested it fixed under warranty, the Weller rep said: "You have been used lighter gas, this will destroy the catalyser"Does standard butan "lighter gas " have impurities that kills the catalyser, or is this pure bollocks? Or is any butan gas good enough? Or do ligher gas sometimes use propane? Would this kill the soldering pen?Cheers

author: BradC
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2017, 03:29:35 pm
content: Cheap butane can sometimes contain impurities. I run my gas axe on iso-butane. Marginally higher pressure, but I can get it clean and un-stenched.Lighter gas has often has mercaptans in it for the odour. They are ok when burned in a clean flame, but in a catalysed burner they could decompose diffently I suppose. I've also seen some fairly non-volatile oils in cheap butane before.

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2017, 03:42:50 pm
content: Lighter gas *can* contain impurities that will kill the catalyst, but that's fairly unlikely. They all seem to use the same basic technology - a preheated high temperature ceramic wool, coated with a very thin film of platinum or other rare metal catalyst. Any salts are bad news - as they can attack the ceramic, and I believe Sulpher can also poison the catalyst so I wouldn't recommend lighting one with a match.Although I don't have a Weller Pyropen, I have been using the same catalyst heads in a couple of gas irons for years using whatever lighter gas has been cheapest - one's a Portasol, and that has a protective cap, the other's a combo kit - litlle pencil blowtorch with interchangable heads for varios tasks including catalytic heads for hot 'air' and soldering. The first catalytic soldering head for that lasted me about a month - then I figured out it was a contamination issue, and made a little waxed paper sleeve to slip over the soldering head vents when cold to keep dirt out. That was about 25 years ago. I've had more trouble keeping the filler valve and control valve in good condition than with that catalyst.However low grade gas can contain excess tar - which gunks up the valve and pinhole jet. IIRC I was successful blowing out the tank with fresh gas to dilute the tar residue then soaking the jet in solvent to soften the tar then bleeding off gas jet down with no head on till there was no more traces of tar from the jet.

author: Mr Simpleton
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 12, 2017, 04:51:44 pm
content: Great, thanks for the answer. So it may be contamination, but not from the gas but when in storage! And the oil/tar issues is noted too.Will pass on the information and also make sure I do protect my Weller from the harsh environmentCheers
Xeltek Superpro 610P vs Batronix BX48 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ultrasmurf
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2017, 07:27:41 am
content: I have my TL866 and it is unable to read M48T35Y NVRAM/Timekeeper to transfer some control parameter from the almost dead chip. Or it does read them (by selecting a NVRAM equivalent chip) but data doesn't look right to me (basically just 00 and FF, when I expect to see some other character), and when I ask it to do test it will say fail at the memory address that holds the time data. So it makes me feel uneasy just trying to burn the fishy data to a new chip and have it destroy other thing...So after browsing around I have the urge to spend some dollar towards either Xeltek 610P or Batronix BX48. They are within the same price range. Batronix, being german's sounds a little bit more solid in terms of build quality, though I can't remember I ever consider them. Xeltek on the other hand seems to always pop up every now and then as top contender for chip programmer.So, throw me some of your thoughts... which one should I buy ?Some background on what I am doing : This time round is to copy the M48T35Y, I always like to imagine that in the future I will have other opportunity to copy some other NV memory... Based on history, I have maybe a few jobs that I can't finish or fix due to lack of programmer/reader capability, nothing that cause my instant death... though certainly would love to be able to act like I am invincible just because I can repair board with some sort of program/memory in it...Should I spend this money and get some big boys toys ? or should I just go for the cheaper batronix BX32 which is much cheaper and is capable of doing what I need now... (since there seems to always be a newer better product the next time I need to whip out my chip programmer and found out that it can't do it)
APC UPS 1400 reardown - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dimkasta
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2017, 08:51:46 pm
content: I am doing some cleaning in my storage and I decided it is time for it to go since it is dead for more than 5 years (it used to power my reef aquarium)It seems nice, even after so many years. Although, there is some liquid stain in the battery chamber (probably happened before I bought it second hand. I got it without a battery and installed a new one)And the second questionable thing is that the mains wiring at the back is exposed, and seems just soldered with a minimal amount of "stuff"For anyone wondering what it looks like from the inside, here is some pornPSI will keep it for a couple of days to see if I should salvage any parts, so feel free to ask for a close-up photo of something if you see something interesting.

author: cat87
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2017, 05:51:08 am
content: If the unit is completely dead, they can be a really nice source for parts. A lot of nice MOSFETs (the ones that actually still work)From my experience, though, these can be really tough to kill. Unless one of the APC ASICs are toast, most of the issues can be easily repaired. I had one unit that didn't want to power up at all. It looked really bad, but all I had to do was replace a relay. It was the main relay, that connected the live and neutral to the rest of the unit.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2017, 12:15:17 pm
content: I think I got a few of these boards somewhere in a pile with PCBs.
Eyeboot 24V 600W SMPS teardown - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: usagi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2017, 07:41:12 am
content: Sold as "Eyeboot 24V 25A DC Universal Regulated Switching Power Supply 600w for CCTV, Radio, Computer Project" - $56.50From theirspec sheet:100% full load burn-in testLow cost,high reliabilityreassuring! confidence!Let's have a look inside.

author: usagi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2017, 07:43:26 am
content: a promising start.

author: usagi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2017, 07:49:44 am
content: remember, these are being sold as new manufacture.

author: usagi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2017, 08:42:28 am
content: the parts look like they have been through a war. or a flood.

author: bktemp
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2017, 08:53:18 am
content: Quote from: blueskull on April 21, 2017, 08:12:21 amIs it? It looks like a typical half-bridge push-pull converter to me. LLC converters don't need a big inductor at the output.The transformer also doesn't look like a LLC type (no seperation between primary and secondary for the leakage inductance, no litz wire).

author: mmagin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2017, 08:10:35 pm
content: I like the jumpers that go right across an isolation slot!

author: coppice
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2017, 09:42:21 pm
content: Quote from: blueskull on April 21, 2017, 08:36:30 pmWhat makes you think those are not shunt resistors?

author: mmagin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2017, 09:55:16 pm
content: Quote from: blueskull on April 21, 2017, 08:36:30 pmOh, not so bad then. But those sloppy enameled wire jumpers are pretty rediculous!

author: sprok
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2017, 02:09:55 am
content: .

author: usagi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2017, 02:57:59 am
content: Quote from: sprok on April 23, 2017, 02:09:55 amhard to concentrate on soldering while surrounded by the other inmates. the whipping is also sorta distracting.
Alternative to Dupont connectors? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: NottheDan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2017, 02:15:33 pm
content: I need to build me a panel you can easily plug throughhole components or breadboard wires in various configurations in. Is there a better alternative than gluing single Dupont connectors into the panel?

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2017, 11:30:38 am
content: 3M makes breadboard modules (I think they call them tie-in points or something) that are PCB-mount. Or consider using ZIF sockets, if the lead thicknesses are variable.

author: neslekkim
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2017, 01:46:54 pm
content: check with those who made this thing?https://www.sparkfun.com/products/14083
Easybrail / Thermaltronics Handles 3 pin or 8 pin? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Brettj
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 07, 2017, 03:51:43 pm
content: I recently scored a new Easybraid desoldering station from ebay. I would like to purchase a handle for it.I have a couple of question about them.What is the difference between the 3pin and 8pin iron?Which one would be better?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2017, 09:54:29 pm
content: https://media.digikey.com/pdf/Data%20Sheets/Easy%20Braid%20PDFs/EB-2000S.pdfModel Number Handpiece Tip Cartridge ConnectorEB-2000S-K SHP-K EK Series 3-PinEB-2000S-PM SHP-PM EP Series 8-PinEB-2000S-SM SHP-SM ES Series 8-Pinhttp://www.easybraidco.com/accessories-soldering-p-5051-l-en.htmlhttp://www.easybraidco.com/accessories-soldering-p-5050-l-en.htmlhttp://www.easybraidco.com/accessories-soldering-p-5049-l-en.htmlhttp://www.alliedelec.com/mkt/pb/easybraid/pdfs/easybraidwhy.pdfLooks like all the same price and wattage, just a different tip format clone (metcal or their own design). So seems to not matter. Could get one of the metcal clone models if you are worried about tip availability but they have plenty on digikey of all three types.
Bruel&Kjaer vs G.R.A.S. vs Aco - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: fonograph
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 20, 2017, 03:48:29 pm
content: I want to buy electret microphone for some precision measurements.Which of these is best quality? Is Aco up there in terms of quality with B&K or is it only second tier manufacturer.
Noise isolating earphones (in ear monitors) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: steve30
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2017, 11:58:00 pm
content: I was wondering if anyone here has any recomendations for noise isolating earphones.Back in 2010 I got the Etymotic ER6i which was very good, but they eventually broke after numerous repairs over the course of a few years. I now have the Etymotic MC5, which works well, but isn't as good as the old ER6i. I've also had these a couple of years now and have had to repair them a couple of times.I use the Etymotic 3 flange tips as I find these provide the best noise isolation, especially when compared to their foam tips. I'm pondering trying Comply foam tips, but haven't got round to it yet.As I'm looking to get some new earphones, does anyone have any suggestions?Thankssteve30.

author: Random Model Maker
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 18, 2017, 03:46:28 pm
content: Is it for HiFi-purpose or for stage monitoring?For HiFi, it will be dependant on what sound you like, and what music you listen to.For on-stage in-ears, if your budget allows for it, I recommend Shure.

author: steve30
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 18, 2017, 05:48:04 pm
content: Mostly for outdoor use.

author: Random Model Maker
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2017, 12:21:40 am
content: Outdoor as in being in general motion while listening to music?That might be rather complicated to judge over the internet. You should go into a music shop or HiFi retailer and try some on, they would generally let you do that. This is really something that highly depends on your ear shape.Do not discount stage IEMs just yet, they are made for stage use, so they generally stay quite put. However, they have a completely flat response, so if your playing device doesn't have EQ capability, they may sound a bit plain.The thing to do here is to try what you like.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 19, 2017, 07:11:56 am
content: I just got the Etymotic ER4XR and love it.When you say "repair", I assume you mean cable issues. The new ER4 is the first Etymotic with removable cables, so they'll be easily fixed if the wire breaks (it's also much softer wire than in cheaper models).
Year and half old Hakko fx888d not working - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Timanator
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 30, 2017, 01:57:15 pm
content: Howdy guysLooks for some advice here on a year and half old FX888d, used maybe 20 times. When plugged in, the device beeps once, but the lcd does not power up. When unplugging, it has a long and short beep. I have taken the prob apart and the resistance in the wiring seems ok. I also openned the controller case, the internal fuse is ok and do not show any burn marks on the circuit boards. What do I do now?Thanks.

author: floobydust
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2017, 01:59:20 am
content: I don't anything know about a beeper on a FX888DNothing mentioned in the manual or pics of the PCB. Hakko is good quality, assuming you have a genuine one.I would check the 5VDC power, that's about all you need to boot up. Even with the wand unplugged the display should come up. Also would do a visual on the PCB for bad solder joints or flux corrosion.You could try reset to factory default settings, but it also erases the calibrationIn order to reset the HAKKO FX-888D back to the factory default settings,"... Hold UP and ENTER buttons and turn power on.The display shows units 'A' (for Asian defaults and display in Celsius) or 'U' (for US defaults and display in Fahrenheit). UP button to toggle the value shown between 'A' and 'U'.When you have made your selection, press the ENTER button and the factory reset will be complete..."From:http://kb.hakkousa.com/KnowledgebaseArticle10599.aspx

author: Timanator
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 01, 2017, 10:48:48 am
content: Thanks guys, I will contact hakko today and see what they recommend. I have tried the reset, and it does absolutely nothing.

author: Nusa
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2017, 12:07:03 pm
content: Given the low cost of a new unit, if you aren't able to fix it yourself, it's likely not worth the costs of having anyone else fix it. Buy a new one, keep the old one for spare parts and/or a future repair attempt.

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2017, 09:06:40 pm
content: +1 on the beep. Perhaps a pic of the PCB would be in order. Where you getting a beep from?If it weren't for the beep, first thing I'd do is check the power rails to make sure the device is getting a stable 5V rail for the control circuitry. If you're not comfortable working on live circuit powered from mains, then don't try it.A genuine 888D will light up when you power it on, even if the iron is not plugged in. It will start up "888" then eventually start flashing "5 - E" error. So the iron/probe should not be part of the equation. But since your station looks to be "special," all bets are off.
Need help about Mastech M-830B multimeter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Stinger
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2017, 08:17:53 pm
content: Hello friends,My 20 yo Mastech M-830B multimeter work fine.But i need your help. Resistor appear burned (infinite resistance).What is value please ?I read colors (a bit burned) : Black (or brown?) / White / White (not sure) / Silver (or grey?) / GreenI think same resistor like multimeter in attachment.Thanks !

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2017, 08:55:56 pm
content: If black white gray silver green, that is 0.98 ohms. I would say a 1 ohm resistor would be good enough.BTW, there are lots of 830 meter schematics on the Internet.

author: Stinger
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2017, 01:56:55 pm
content: Hello,Thanks for answer. My local dealer didn't have 0,99 ohm like M-830B diagram. He sell me 1 ohm resistor.

author: Nusa
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2017, 02:30:37 pm
content: I read that unburned one as Black-White-White-Gold-Green. Which would be 099 * 0.1 +/- 0.5%, or a 9.9 ohm precision resistor.

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2017, 03:22:24 pm
content: 99 makes sense --- it's part of the range divider. Anything else will affect the accuracy.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2017, 09:47:26 pm
content: Quote from: Nusa on April 08, 2017, 02:30:37 pmWhich is why I hate the color code system for resistors. After time or depending on the paint quality, it is difficult to tell some colors from others. Also, lighting, photo quality, etc all factor in.

author: Stinger
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2017, 08:55:26 pm
content: Thanks guys.Quote from: Nusa on April 08, 2017, 02:30:37 pmMy burned as Black-White-White-Silver-Green.099 *0.01+/- 0.5%, or a 0.99 ohm ?
Hakko FR-300 140W vs 98W - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Bud
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 14, 2017, 03:15:00 am
content: There are Hakko FR300-82 desoldering guns on eBay from Japan that are 98W compare to ones sold in North America FR300-05/P that are 140W. If you happen to have either one what is your feeling if a 98W one is sufficient for general PCB work, i.e. not many heavy connectors/transformers desoldering, just regular parts. May be 4-6 layers boards with internal ground planes though.

author: Bud
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 14, 2017, 06:46:36 am
content: That is interesting, who would have thought...
Li-ion 18650 suppliers in the UK? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: steve30
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2017, 01:33:36 pm
content: Could anyone recommend for me any decent suppliers of 18650 cells in the UK? I'd like to get some to re-cell the battery packs of old laptops.I'd rather get new name-brand cells from a reputable source rather than generic ebay types.Thankssteve30

author: HKJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2017, 09:41:07 am
content: Why not move slightly outside UK, you are still in the EUTry checking:https://www.nkon.nl/https://www.akkuteile.de/

author: Frosty
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 14, 2017, 05:52:34 pm
content: I know this is a couple of weeks old but have you tried vape shops?Good ones carry decent batteries. Got my Sony ones from my local shop.I'm UK as well.

author: steve30
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 18, 2017, 10:51:37 pm
content: Quote from: Frosty on April 14, 2017, 05:52:34 pmI haven't looked, but I'll bare them in mind. I might not need to buy any 18650s for the time being as someone offered me some new old stock battery packs which might last me a while.I bookedmarked this site which looks reasonable:http://www.batteriesplus.co.uk/acatalog/copy_of_Lithium_Ion__Li-Ion___3.7V_Batteries-1.html
Soldering and rework station YAXUN 878D + - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: naldo
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2017, 06:38:53 pm
content: Here, good afternoon, everyone! This station would be good for repairs on TVs, I know that it is not top of the line but will it help in the maintenance of these devices ?? Thanks for a return!

author: Shock
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2017, 02:32:56 pm
content: I'd resist the desire to buy an all in one, I own these and they could be even similar build quality, who knows but at least they don't share the same crappy transformer. I paid approx $15 for the soldering station and $45 USD for the hot air (the soldering station is more expensive now).I decided on analog control for the soldering station as you are meant to adjust the temp for different tips, so moving the knob quickly is far easier than buttons for me. Digital controls and display on the hot air was more important to see it cooling in standby (which the soldering iron stations don't do) unless you get a Hakko FX 951 clone or something like that.I use genuine Hakko T18 tips on the soldering stations iron, the Chinese tips that come will all of these are horrible in comparison. Anyway yes for TV repair you should have no problem at all as long as you get a better tip.
6632B Teardown - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bingo600
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 04:41:16 pm
content: As a followup to the 6632A teardown , i was asked to upload my pics of the two 6632B's i have

author: bingo600
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 04:44:55 pm
content: More

author: bingo600
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 04:48:43 pm
content: More

author: bingo600
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 04:52:32 pm
content: More

author: bingo600
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 04:55:47 pm
content: More

author: bingo600
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 04:57:03 pm
content: Last Pics

author: bingo600
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 04:58:32 pm
content: PheewwFabio you owe me a "Cold one" ...... My fingers have "Clicky-titis" now..Btw: I have 2 versions , an Agilent & a HP 6632B.I wrote a program for my Ubuntu desktop , using my Prologix GBPB-Ether :The purpose was to test/profile the PSU's against my Agilent 34401A meter , and determine deviation , between GPIB set voltage , 6632B PSU Measured Voltage (display & gpib) and 34401A measured voltage (gpib).It steps from 0..20v in 100mv stepsIt's fun to compare the HP & Agilent measure values , and see/conclude that they must have changed the DAC algorithm in the newer Agilent , to ramp up. Instead of the "Step" in the HP./Bingo

author: M. András
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 05:10:51 pm
content: wow tons of pics thanks

author: bingo600
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 05:20:11 pm
content: Ohh the ServoceNote 09 Mod ....Prob the most importantI used a 1N4148 - My local EE said it would do , now that the PSU didn't deliver more than 22v/Bingo

author: muvideo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 06:23:47 pm
content: Quote from: bingo600 on July 02, 2012, 04:58:32 pmWow,I have to be careful when I ask somethingI think this probably is (and will be) the most detailed teardown ever.Fabio.

author: mos6502
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 17, 2017, 04:56:53 am
content: What the H? A DSP AND an FPGA in a power supply?
Soldering / Desoldering with HMP alloy  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: KrzysztofB
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 06, 2017, 10:10:37 am
content: Hi guys.I'm looking for knowledge gathering about soldering HMP alloy.Anyone has experience with that one? Which soldering station? Temperature? Flux? Tips lifetime?RegardsKrzysztof
Panduit (or similar) insulation displacement connector tool (gun)  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Jester
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2017, 02:52:51 pm
content: I'm trying to source a Panduit connector tool, the type that forces one wire at a time into a SIP insualtion displacement connector. The style that looks a bit like a gun with a trigger. I'm not necessarily married to the Panduit version, if there is a similar tool from Molex etc. The tool I'm think of has interchangable heads for either 0.1 or 0.156" connectors

author: radar_macgyver
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2017, 02:58:17 pm
content: Are you referring to the MTA-100 and MTA-156 connectors?The inexpensive T-handle versions from TE are59803-1and59804-1. Otherwise, there's the gun-style58074-1, the heads are available at the bottom of the Digikey page.
Belkin Surgemaster vs APC PM1W-GR - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Rbastler
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2017, 11:42:46 am
content: Belkin vs APCBecause my lab equipment and my PC got more expensive, I wanted to know it protected when I'm not at home to unplug everything in case of a thunderstorm.Long story short is that I searched for a over voltage protector and bought the Belkin surgemaster. After some days I found out that apperently the equipment protection policy for that is only valid in Germany, which is useless to me because I live most time in Austria and Italy. Plus I found a thread here on the forum mentioning APC is much better than Belkin. So I did some research again and with APC I can have a equipment protection policy in Austria and Italy. So I went on Amazon and bought four APC PM1W-GR.Of course I wanted to know if what I found out earlier is true and I opend both products. One of the Belkin protectors was opend with force, because I dind't care about it. Fortunately I managed to get the screws out of the APC to have a comparison. I included a picture of the screws I found on Google from Amazon.The APC looks so much better. The first two pictures are the Belkin:

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 01, 2017, 12:31:18 pm
content: I have 3 APC SmartUPS here in my office. They are decommissioned company assets from 2004. All I've needed to do was replace batteries, which are due again. Florida Power and Light can be a pain with sags/surges so the automatic voltage regulation gets a workout. I even have 3 spares just in case. We now have HP UPS deployed and they are no where as good. The worst part is there is no indication of battery failure, either by software or status lights. Batteries have failed and swollen up to the point that they can't be removedI expect you will be as happy with your APCs as I am with mine. My bonus is that the company pays for the batteries

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2017, 05:36:29 pm
content: At least they put the fuses in for the MOV units, so them going short is not going to cause ( much of) a fire.
Wentai fake SMD boxes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Zom-B
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2017, 10:11:02 am
content: We needed a bunch of snap-fit ESD-safe closeable SMD component boxes at work, so I ordered 100 'Genuine' Wen-Tai boxes that look like this:I bought them on AliExpress, but can't find them on there anymore. A similar one onAmazonhas the same photos and slightly higher price tag.I own some pink non-ESD variants from aDutch webshopbased in Shanghai, that look like this. They don't have the logo, but still all the same patent numbers of 5 countries on the bottom:I'm very happy with my nameless boxes and they are very high quality.The same can't be said of the Wen-tai boxes:Burrs on most edges,Visible scars on the injection molds used to make them,Lid can rock left and right when open,Not snap-compatible with my version,NOT ESD SAFE- they charge with static electricity when rubbed!Now I wonder whether Wen-tai is a bootleg company that advertises it's own products (correctly) as genuine Wen-tai, or if they are not Wen-tai and illegally bootleg the real ones.

author: amspire
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2017, 10:34:17 am
content: I like the AideTek cases. Not cheap, but the compartments are in a case that shuts securely and so none of the smd compartments can accidentally open. If this is for work, it is a good option.When closed, the boxes stack easily.ESD safe and non-ESD safe (for passives) available.The company was called Aidetech in CA, but the old AideTech is now dead. Exactly the same products.http://aidetek.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=A&Category_Code=Enclhttps://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale?catId=0&initiative_id=&SearchText=aidetek

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2017, 09:19:10 pm
content: This is where you dispute the order as poor quality.I would trust adafruit to know what they are selling, although at an inflated price:https://www.adafruit.com/products/430
Rohde & Schwarz ESK15 Electronical School Kit - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Hydrawerk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2017, 03:50:59 pm
content: I saw this on a trade fair. I could not finy any information on the internet. I am not sure if this product will ever be sold to public.

author: bitwelder
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 27, 2017, 02:41:19 pm
content: A Rohde & Schwarz kit that uses Uni-T multimeters?
X-Tronic Soldering Iron Tips - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: 5Beans6
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 22, 2017, 03:34:36 am
content: I recently purchased an X-Tronic 3020 soldering station and was wondering if I could replace the tip with Hakko or Weller branded tips. I've heard that the Hakko 900M series tips are compatible, however they are now discontinued. Will the 900M or 900S series also work?Thanks!

author: mariush
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2017, 03:46:01 am
content: The tips for FX-888 are the same as the Hakko 936 (and similar of that age, the tips with code 900M), same diameter, just maybe 2-3 mm longer so the temperature may be slightly different as the tip of the tip (pun or whatever not intended) is slightly further away from the heating element)So you should be able to use the tips for that series of soldering irons. I think the code is T18.

author: 5Beans6
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 22, 2017, 11:14:04 pm
content: Thanks!

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2017, 11:17:51 pm
content: QuoteThe important difference is the outer diameter. The OD of the T18 tip is slightly larger than the 900M tips, which is why they provide better performance.900M tip is nominally 0.250" in diameter, sometimes a few mils less. The T18 tips are consistently 0.267" to 0.268".I had an X tronic that could take T18 tips, no problem. The tube/retaining piece on a 900M iron would have to be very tight fitting for the T18 tips to not fit. If in doubt, wrap some tape around the tip until you get OD of 0.268" and make sure that fits down the tube with a little bit of clearance for heat expansion.
USB 3.1 Gen 2 Hub - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: krcm0209
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2017, 03:46:29 am
content: I was searching around tonight, looking for any information on USB 3.1 Gen 2 hubs. Something that I could plug into my computer with a Type A or Type C connector (since my motherboard has 3.1 gen 2 support) that would break out that connection to 4+ USB 3.1 gen 2 ports. I understand that if such a product existed that it would only be sharing the 10 Gbps bandwidth across all the ports simultaneously.I haven't seen any such product on the market yet. I found this press release for a USB hub controller with USB 3.1 gen 2 support though.http://www.genesyslogic.com/en/news_view.php?show=181
Need help choosing a camera for a trinocular stereo microscope. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Housedad
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 06:20:53 pm
content: I have a Amscope Stereo microsope coming in the mail, Model SM-4T. I would like to get a decent camera for it. I have looked and read evrything I can find onliine, but having never used one before, I still am at a loss of which one to get. I want to keep the price below $200 US.There are so many choices out there, but it seems all they provide is specs and I have no feel as to what would fit my desires. I would like to be able to record at a good resolution and 30fps, and still have reasonable resolution still imaging.Anyone with cameras that can give me some pointers?

author: janoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 08:08:10 pm
content: Louis Rossmann has a few videos on these cameras. He compares several models, including some cheap Chinese ones. Check out his Youtube channel.https://www.youtube.com/user/rossmanngroup

author: Housedad
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2017, 10:57:05 pm
content: Thanks for the links. I have finally finished them and viewed a lot of other ones. Unfortunately, they still leave a lot of questions unanswered.

author: janoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2017, 10:22:53 am
content: You can contact him directly - either by Youtube or through his website:https://www.rossmanngroup.com/I believe he has also an account here, so try PMing him.https://www.eevblog.com/forum/profile/?u=102621

author: ebclr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2017, 05:29:23 am
content: Do not buy ant camera that isn't USB 3,Nice sugestionhttps://www.amazon.com/OMAX-Digital-Microscope-Calibration-Compatible/dp/B016YJOK3I/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1490160512&sr=8-2&keywords=usb+3+microscope+camera
desktop work light questions - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tkuhmone
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2017, 09:51:38 pm
content: For the SMD soldering practice, I already noticed that few challenges will come with my eyeglasses (and the current status of non-perfect vision). The ones I own near distance work (+3) do currently work best under 1m distance. The best sharpness is on the lower section on glasses (for distances less than 0.3m). It is not enough to move my eye, also need to turn head. For the long term solution with SMD solder practise / SMD stuff - I do need to get some solution for the home use also (in parallel to that, I will teste the stereo microscope at local ham radio club).For the magnifying work light (with adjustable arm), many of those have traditional big glass (or plastic) lens. I do not have here one to test - so I ask do they offer sharp wiew overall the lens area or is it needed to put the point where you work on SMD - to the center of your magnifying lens ?Also, is there any similar work light offered in fresnel lens ? Just wondering if that type of lens offer better views on wider area ? I can see with google, that there is some desktop stands (with a fresnel lens) what you put on table. And there is some space below that - I am not fully sure if that is very usable on PCB soldering, ie does the PCB plus solder tools fit properly under that?One solution might be to check if suitable headband magnifying lenses exist...

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2017, 11:00:22 am
content: Best is to get a set of reading glasses, preferably slightly stronger than you really need, and keep them at the workbench. Use when you work there, and you will find it a lot easier. My optician told me this, rather than changing my stable script, just to buy cheap readers for close up work. Plus is the shop typically has a simple reading chart at eye level so you can try the glasses out till you find a suitable value then choose a style you like.

author: tkuhmone
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2017, 01:35:56 pm
content: Renewing reading glasses is one option. I still would need them (propably in a near future) even without SMD work. When using laptop, noticed my eyes need to "work" lot more than on desktop monitor (24" Eizo). Eyes need to rest for while...Need to check - if I have a option to test those desktop magnifying lens lights, before buing one...
Rubber ESD mat edge ripples. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Housedad
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2017, 04:48:56 am
content: I bought a 36" X 60" rubber ESD mat today. When I unrolled it and layed it out on my table, There were some ripples along the edges. 5 ripples along the long sides and 3 on the short sides. The center area of the mat seems to lay very flat. Any Ideas as to how to get this out and get it flat? It has been about 8 hours now and no difference so far.
DAVE!  EB Enterprises - Flux Capacitor At OReilly's Auto Parts! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: gearhead
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 02:58:04 am
content: Ran across this Flux Capacitor On OReilly's Website.http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/EB00/121G.oap?ck=Search_121g_-1_645&keyword=121g#itemDetailTab_But they state that Plutonium is NOT available at OReilly's.

author: Housedad
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 01:03:59 am
content: awesome...
Longevity of modern equipment/parts? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Kuro
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2017, 02:58:06 pm
content: As I was looking at a low cost decent soldering station for a beginner/kid, I rewatched some of Dave's video's. Including his teardown of his JBC. In it he mentions his old Hakko and Pace analog stations are still going strong after decades, but he's not so sure about how long his new JBC will last. He also mentions the LCD as one thing that might not age well.So I got curious and tried googling about LCD longevity but didn't find much. In general, I'm now very curious about how long one may expect modern electronic gear to last.Are there any resources by people who investigated this I might look at? Any 'rules of thumb' that give a good idea, like 'lcd's don't last very long, maybe 15 years' or something like that?I always figured electronics would almost outlive me. Bar some leaking caps. I found an old Spectrum (Sinclair microcomputer) that worked perfectly a few years ago, and it wasn't really all that well built. So what's so 'bad' about modern gear that makes Dave doubt it will last as long as the 'good old stuff'?
Analog discovery 2 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: noname4me
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2017, 08:03:39 pm
content: HiI have an opportunity to buy an analog discovery 2 and im wondering about other people's experience with it.Should i go for the ni edition or the digilent one?I mainly want to a cheap spectrum analyser to analyse signals for a lock in amplifier applicationIs there anything else i should be looking at?ThanksSent from my SM-G935F using Tapatalk

author: Neganur
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 16, 2017, 09:23:27 pm
content: There is no difference, it's purely cosmetic.

author: noname4me
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2017, 08:46:55 pm
content: Thanks for your reply.I was wondering if there was any other instrument that might be worth investing in instead of this that can do the spectrum analysis bit (at the very least).Would it be worth purchasing this if i already had a rigol 1074? Maybe the fft function would give better results?Sent from my SM-G935F using Tapatalk

author: Neganur
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 17, 2017, 09:15:32 pm
content: From experience, you might get too much noise with those PSoC ADCs but perhaps Dana has better insight.The Analog Discovery 2 is fairly good up to ca 20 MHz (even with the BNC adapter, it's not that great) and has the advantage of a higher bit ADC than the rigol. I don't know if the rigol can make up the difference by oversampling (2x fully differential and hence isolated 14 bit ADC @ 100MSa/s).PS, I don't remember the fft length but the scope can use only up to 16kpts of memory (AD2 scope that is)EDIT: I don't have the AD2 here but the waveforms 2015 software in dummy mode shows maximum 4097 bins at 8192 samples per channel. This is a lot less than the Rigol can do. So I would think that the Analog Discovery only offers better dynamic range but not better frequency resolution?

author: noname4me
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2017, 11:05:03 pm
content: That's interestingApologies, the lock in frequency will be of the order of 10 to 30 Hz as this is to be for more spectrometer type applicationsI have a lock in amplifier but no spectrum analyser and i need some way to play with the lock in frequency and bandwidth of the window and see how this impacts my measurementI didn't really want to spend a lot of money on kit and was hoping that there may be someone more experienced that could give me hints on doing this type of measurementIf i have to then i will spend the money but want to exhaust all cheaper options firstThanksSent from my SM-G935F using Tapatalk
Cartridges for JBC PA120-A Micro Tweezers  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kaevee
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 01:03:32 pm
content: Hi,I am ordering cartridges for JBC PA120-A Micro Tweezers. Do I need to order them in pair?According to the catalogue, there are certain cartridges like C120009(right) and C120010(left) are paired together. On the other hand, some cartridges like C120902 are not.One of the sales guy told me they will come in pairs. But, there are certain cartridges with different product codes. Could someone using PA120-A tell us what to order?Venkat

author: kaevee
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2017, 12:13:58 am
content: Got a reply from JBC sales team. One has to buy cartridges in pairs unless product page suggests the matching cartridge to be paired with cartridge in question.Venkat
Best super cheap thermal controller 2017? For solder iron/general use - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: zappedy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 11, 2017, 08:04:38 pm
content: Are these usable to temperature control a home made desoldering device? I'm hoping their relays can switch a ~100W 230V load.http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/DC24V-30-999-Digital-High-Temperature-Control-Switch-Thermostat-K-Thermocouple-/262455357825In the sub-$30 segment of cheap chinese temp controller boards, what would you guys recommend in this day? The cheaper the better, my time isn't worth much at the moment unfortunately.
Samsung Syncmaster TC240 AiO teardown & modding - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: FireFlower
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2015, 03:52:00 am
content: So decided to modify my All in One computer and add another, bigger and better sata HDD and bigger memory so I can install and use Windows 7 without worries.Specs:http://www.pcworld.com/product/1413063/samsung-syncmaster-tc240-widescren-lcd-monitor.htmlChanging RAM module was no brainer but installing another HDD is pain in the ass. This computer had 4GB SSD with direct plug to IDE originally. Okay so I can just ditch that out of the way but there is no really room to mount HDD. So I bolted one 60GB HDD with laptop holding bracket and tested will it even accept any other HDD than that 4GB SSD. Yeah that worked fine but 60GB 2.5" drive is very slow poke drive so I decided why not I couldn't add there another HDD with sata to ide adapter.Turns out things ain't so simple... Power supply has +3.3V, +5V and +15V rails, turns out my chinese sata to ide adapter uses 12V rail as main power lineEnd result for today:Had to swap HDD places because adapters are fitting totally different. Seriously there should be standard for these adapters because you cannot mount them on top of each other because holes are not matching and with worse case like I have the angle is also different.Basically need to add 12V regulator somewhere.I need beer.I will try 12V regulator somewhere and continue project.

author: FireFlower
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2015, 12:39:34 am
content: Had to remove other HDD because accidentally destroyed adapter, flimsy plastic snapped. Bolted LM7812 to board, made some jumper cables to get +12V for SATA to IDE adapter and able to boot up computer. If I have to do this second time I would order adapters from ebay that are not wider or thicker than the drive itself and a mounting kit for two hdds.

author: Shock
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2015, 01:03:45 am
content: Job done, ship it back to the customer.

author: Fiberlys
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 11, 2017, 02:58:16 pm
content: Followed your instructionsFor my HDD i used a Sata SSD with Startech IDE2SAT25 converter.It work pretty wellThanks.
soldering with hot air and dispenser - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: R005T3r
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2017, 09:06:00 am
content: Hi,I'm looking for a decent hot air gun for smd soldering and desoldering. Actually, my idea for soldering was to get a solder paste dispenser, place the components and then use hot air to solder, so I don't have to care about all the soldering pencils, tweezers and stuff like that. Also, for desoldering, I heat up the chips I wanted to desolder and then I'll pick them up with a tweezer...The main problem, is that I don't know what to buy as an alternative to the atten 858D station, also I've read some interesting news about hot air station I wanted to discuss... Also more importantly with a setup like that what could possibly go wrong? Does anyone have experience with this setup?Thanks.
Question about metcal stss-ps2e-02 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: toly084
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 06:05:15 pm
content: Good time of the day for everyone. Can someone give me an answer about is there sleep mode in metcal stss-ps2e-02 power supply? Because I do not know what stand to buy. Do I need with or without sleep mode stand for iron. Only what I found that this unit has auto power off function. And about this power off function. The unit go into power off when I will not solder, or when? Can someone explain? And olso tell me is there any other specific functions in this power unit. Because I cannot find any specifications.

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 06:10:55 pm
content: I don't think so. MX500 has a selectable sleep mode ( via grubscrew on side), which shuts down if not used for a while - can't recall how long but pretty long.The sleep mode stand has a magnet to reduce power draw - it can be used with any Metcal PSU.You probably want thr sleep mode stand to maximise tip life - the PSU sleep is long enough that it's not very useful, and can be annoying

author: toly084
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 07:02:51 pm
content: Quote from: mikeselectricstuff on January 19, 2017, 06:10:55 pmThanks for answer. But I do not have MX500 but STSS-PS2-02. I know that this is looks the same as MX500 only with one port fot solder. But for now I do not know much about metcal features and so I asking. Only I want to know is there possibility of work in sleep mode with sleep mode stand with my STSS-PS2-02 unit.

author: Monkeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 07:07:52 pm
content: Quote from: toly084 on January 19, 2017, 07:02:51 pmQuote from: mikeselectricstuff on January 19, 2017, 06:10:55 pm

author: toly084
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 07:13:43 pm
content: Quote from: Monkeh on January 19, 2017, 07:07:52 pmThanks. Now all is clear) Sorry, I didn't understand from the first post.

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 07:43:36 pm
content: To clarify, the magnet acts directly on the tip and doesn't need any help from the PSU.

author: connectionvalidationman
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 08, 2017, 09:26:45 pm
content: Yes the Metcal sleep stand (with the magnets) will work on ANY metcal handpiece/power supply combo.