hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Cost thunderbolt 3 chipset - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tjeulink
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 03:50:10 pm
content: i was wondering what the costs are for thunderbolt 3 chipsets. its very hard to find any info about it so i thought maybe i can ask here and see if someone knows more about thunderbolt 3 chipsets.

author: mariush
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 03:58:56 pm
content: The added cost to a motherboard is rumored to be around $25-40.

author: tjeulink
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 07:59:44 pm
content: Quote from: mariush on March 24, 2016, 03:58:56 pmthanks, i actually found theolderactually this is the newest chip i guessthunderbolt controller chips and they are fairly cheap. i also found the actual name for the chip if anyone is wondering. its codename Alpine Ridge. which is the DSL6540 chip for duel port and DSL6340 for single port. both do the 40gbps.they appear to cost about 15$ at mouser so the 25-40 ratio seems somewhat reasonable for new tech.http://mouser.com/ProductDetail/Intel/DSL6340-SLL3Z/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMsYdxaYtmOicZwj3AVBkTWU7RVz7uY3e8Y%3dsource:https://thunderbolttechnology.net/blog/thunderbolt%E2%84%A2-3-controllers-launch-6th-gen-intel%C2%AE-core%E2%84%A2-processors-ifa-show?page=1Quote

author: savril
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2016, 07:06:12 am
content: I've read on a PC news site that the main cost of Thunderbolt is in licensing. So if you make a thunderbolt product, you may have to pay significant fees in licensing to Intel.

author: CM800
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 27, 2016, 12:41:12 am
content: Quote from: savril on March 25, 2016, 07:06:12 amThat's pretty shitty. I really wish we could have a common high-speed protocol that was truly open or available for the average hobbyist.I had hopes that they would 'open up' with the protocol.
Shapeoko 3 vs Othermill - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: frankowskimark
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 16, 2016, 03:17:21 pm
content: Hello, complete beginner here wanting to get into cnc milling of pcb's. I'm tired of dealing with chemical etching and am struggling to decide between the Shapeoko 3 and the Othermill. I like the price point and versatility of the Shapeoko 3, but I also love the "ready to isolation mill from an eagle board" aspect of the Othermill and it's precision. However, paying twice the price of the Shapeoko 3 is a little hard to swallow. Any recommendations?

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2016, 12:43:42 am
content: no advice on hardwareas for readyto mill.. go to PCB Gcode yahoo group and download a copy of actively developed and supported ULP and You will be able to generate G code for any mill

author: Dubbie
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 24, 2016, 11:13:59 pm
content: If you're tired of the hassle of etching boards, then you've got a big surprise coming regarding the hassle of engraving boards!Sent from my phone using Tapatalk

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2016, 01:29:07 am
content: Dubbie,What has been Your personal experience milling the boards?

author: Dubbie
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 25, 2016, 07:08:09 am
content: I found that it's a pain in the ass. You might persevere longer than me, but if I need a quick single sided board I reach for the chemicals every time, even though I have a very capable and precise CNC mill. It is good for drilling holes tho!Sent from my phone using Tapatalk

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2016, 01:06:45 pm
content: I find mechanical etching hassle free. No nasty chemicals to dispose of all the waste is metallic copper..safe and environmentally friendly,As a matter of fact i make boards commercially..single double and multilayer no problems.Main hassle is very fine slivers ( in say 2 ounce boards) get to make shorts..but thats readily inspected and in any case i have a bare board tester to determine short/open circuit faults.
Altium Designer, change pin map of multiple components - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: fernazza
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 11, 2016, 12:35:08 am
content: Hi all,I'm new with Altium and I am in the following situation. I have a schematic and routed PCB board with more than 500 SMD LEDs. Footprint for LEDs is PLCC4. For the LED I'm currently using everything is fine. However now I want to use another LED brand and the pinout is the other way around. Therefore I would need to change pin map of each LED in schematic, then update PCB document and finally rotate each LED in PCB manually. All that is a lot of work so I wonder if there is a way to automate that process. Any thoughts are appreciated. Thanks in advance!!!Fernando

author: DutchGert
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2016, 11:27:31 am
content: Uhm, if it has the same number of pins just make a new part in the library, select all 500 leds en in the schematic inspector change the poart to the new part. Then update the pcb and you ar good to go.On pcb level, just select all leds and in the pcb inspector give them a new rotation

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2016, 09:40:03 pm
content: If you want to support both brands in the future, create a SchLib symbol for each, place them on the schematic and connect them in parallel. Create two Assembly Variants, one with all "LED A" and the other with "LED B". Update the PCB and place all the new "LED B" footprints over the "LED A" ones. (Since AD15, this can also be done within a single symbol, by specifying a variant component from the library; multiple parts don't need to clutter up the schematic then.)The result is that Pick-And-Place information will be outputted with the correct rotation for either variant.If you don't need a compatible solution and just want to update them all, then go to Tools/Footprint Manager and edit the footprints for the correct pinout; update PCB, select all the LEDs and, in the Inspector, set Rotation to "Rotation+180".Or just add a note to the assembler that the different LED parts are wired backwards. They may even figure it out on their own, because footprints have inconsistent position and angle references.Tim
Silkscreen on DIY boards? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mark
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2016, 02:40:01 pm
content: Hello,I have recently started adding green soldermask film to my home-made PCBs and have been impressed by the professional look of the finished product. I would now like to add a white or yellow silkscreen to the board... is this possible using the same technique as adding the soldermask, i.e. does photo-sensitive soldermask film come in white?What other way could I add a silkscreen?

author: Fred27
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 19, 2016, 03:17:59 pm
content: I was always tempted to try yellow toner as per toner transfer. Might not stand up to the heat of soldering though. There are some laser printers with white toner, but probably hard to get.

author: johm
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2016, 12:52:10 pm
content: In case you don't need too much resolution (>15 mil) you can use etched can stencilshttp://blueflyvario.blogspot.com.es/2012/08/diy-solder-paste-stencil-etched-soda-can.html(even vinyl cut) with some registration holes and some white spray paint. This is how I successfully print text and labels to my home etched boards (though I havent tried with soldermask). It doesn't rub off unless you wipe your boards with specific organic solvents.

author: Mark
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2016, 05:45:17 pm
content: Thanks to both of you! I think a printer would be the easiest solution but I have never used (or liked the idea of) toner transfer. The stencil method seems like a lot of work, but then again it only needs to be done once per board revision and can be re-used if making multiple boards. The resourcefulness of EEs never ceases to amaze me!Do you have any photos of your finished boards johm?

author: mongo
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2016, 04:59:52 am
content: It really depends on what you are using for soldermask, I don't know if you are using the film or if you are using Pebeo Vitrea 160, although if you don't like printer transfer you are probably not using the airbrush method. But you can airbrush on the "outliner" paints which are not as translucent if you do try that method.FYI, the printer transfer does hold up pretty well, if you ignore the amateurish "this is a prototype" single layer junk in the images I attached I can say that that board was uncovered and used a lot for 3d printing for a few years and it is still mostly readable.
File types - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2016, 07:09:26 am
content: The below files are a part of pick and place machine file setup/use.The machine runs under windows XP and iwould like to be able to inspect these files with the view to establishing off line programing capability.File names are0603LED.CPDjobname.iapjobname.mprThe first file is a sample of component library file, the other two are specific to the jobname pick and place program.Looking for any hints as to how to make sense of file contents.

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2016, 07:33:02 am
content: A hex editor allowed inspection.. all i need now is a clever editor .

author: johm
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2016, 12:56:38 pm
content: Could you make them public please, so that we can get a glimpse?
Bond plexiglass to PCB - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: davethecipo
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 22, 2016, 08:58:50 pm
content: Hi everyone,I hope this is the right section to ask. When I look at demo products for mTouch or QTouch, I see very nice looking flat surfaces with the PCB on the bottom.While looking for ways to securely attach a plexiglass sheet to the PCB, I foundthis application note. At page 12 it cites as an example a tape from 3M, series 200. Has anyone tried this? Do you have any other methods that are easy enough for DIY?

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2016, 09:22:15 pm
content: Quote from: davethecipo on February 22, 2016, 08:58:50 pmI tried, it does work really well as long as you are careful applying it and can do so without introducing bubbles. The good thing that this tape is not permanent, it can be removed and reapplied, it does not leave a mess, but rather peels off nicely.I have not tried any other method.One downside is, I don't know if that tape is sold in small quantities, I've only seen it in huge rolls, which are quite expensive.

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2016, 09:25:40 pm
content: Looks like it is available in variety of sizes -http://www.amazon.com/3M-Adhesive-Transfer-Tape-467MP/dp/B00P26Z04I

author: davethecipo
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 22, 2016, 09:35:28 pm
content: Thanks! Apparently Digikey has reasonable sizes too
Large volume assembly fabs - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: nwvlab
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2016, 08:56:59 am
content: Hi there!I read in this and other forums about low volume pcb assembly fabs (<10k pcs). Indeed I used also the online quote forms on pcbway and pcbcart, but the pcb assembly price seems to saturate above a certain board quantity (typically 5k-10k). Anyone knows about pcb assembly services for larger volumes (30k-100k) ?thank you!

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2016, 09:17:24 am
content: Quote from: nwvlab on February 07, 2016, 08:56:59 amWith PCBWAY, you can contact them direct for better pricing on large quantities. They will be reluctant to do a large quantity until you have OK'd a sample run from them.If there are no changes after the sample run (which might be say 1000 boards), you will be offered a better price on high volume due to the volume & the fact that no new tooling is required. They can also supply you solder paste stencils at quite good prices too if you ask them.

author: nwvlab
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2016, 09:33:20 am
content: Thank you very much!A little bit off topic: do you know if they can do IC programming too?

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2016, 10:41:45 am
content: The reason the price levels out is simply that once setup/admin costs and part-reel wastage become a small part of the overall cost, what you are paying for is machine time, which doesn't get any cheaper with higher volumes.The level-out point will vary depending on the speed of the machine you're buying time on, so it's more a case of finding a manufacturer geared to the higher volumes than getting a better price for higher volumes from the same manufacturer.

author: nwvlab
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2016, 04:02:13 pm
content: Quote from: mikeselectricstuff on February 07, 2016, 10:41:45 amThat I was asking forDo you know/recommend any suitable for high volumes?
BOOK: The Essential Guide to Electronics in Shenzhen, crowd funding $30 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: nixfu
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 04, 2016, 06:03:26 pm
content: A new crowd funded book someone is written as a guide book for Shenzhen."Going to Shenzhen, China is a massive enabler for Makers, hackers, and entrepreneurs alike. The Essential Guide to Electronics in Shenzhen is the book I wish I had when I first stepped foot into China a decade ago."Interesting idea, It will be fun to see the reviews after it is published.https://www.crowdsupply.com/sutajio-kosagi/the-essential-guide-to-electronics-in-shenzhen/I thought this fit better in this topic rather than the generic "crowdfunded" topic on the forum which is mostly about already designed products.

author: bxh
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2016, 06:47:21 pm
content: Shenzhen is indeed an amazing place for makers, fast and cheap PCB services, fantastic variety of components stocked in the markets. All you need is to be able to find what you need! Unfortunately that can be quite a feat, I've personally spent many hours walking around in different buildings just trying to roughly index what's available where for future reference. Bunnie (author of the book) is just an all-around awesome dude

author: MT
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2016, 10:43:08 pm
content: Great, but i would also want a chapter that describes about how to avoid being scammed through counterfeit!
Servos in Production - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: robotix3
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2016, 11:13:05 pm
content: Has anyone used RC servos in a high volume product, say ~100K units. I think this would be a bad idea because of sourcing issues, unknown electronics, cable length, etc.RC servos are very cheap from China, almost cheaper than would be to do an equivalent assembly from scratch at this volume.Any thoughts on this?

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2016, 11:59:51 pm
content: Quote from: robotix3 on February 16, 2016, 11:13:05 pmyou get what you pay for (if you are lucky)https://youtu.be/dvwZeb2uwkg?t=16m15s

author: Kilrah
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 17, 2016, 06:50:46 am
content: Quote from: robotix3 on February 16, 2016, 11:13:05 pmThose drawbacks can be avoided by using a reputable brand that does their own QC and production management. Of course they'll then cost a "reasonable" price unlike the dirt cheap stuff you could get straight from China.Or you can do that part of the job yourself, and instead of just ordering stuff from a random manufacturer and seeing what you get actually work with them and send someone to supervise production/QC at their factory (likely cheaper but longer / more complicated process).
Reflow oven project from ED - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Bud
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 18, 2015, 02:43:18 am
content: This came in today's Electronic Design newsletter.A project for conversion of a B&D toaster oven into a reflow oven.http://electronicdesign.com/blog/building-home-or-very-small-office-electronic-circuit-prototypes-part-2

author: alank2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 18, 2015, 01:07:02 pm
content: Forget (as in DO NOT USE) the reflect-a-gold. I tried this and it RUINED my oven. Every time I reflowed something (garage) it would stink up the entire garage and work its way into my house. If you use it outside maybe no problem, but I had to throw out that oven and buy a second one. On the upside, I was able to take the higher wattage heating element out of the thrown out one so that I have 900W on the top and bottom of the new oven now.

author: bitshift
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2016, 07:49:47 pm
content: @alank2 was this ebay reflect-a-gold or genuine reflect-a-gold? I've bought some of the ebay reflect-a-gold but haven't installed it yet.

author: alank2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2016, 07:57:59 pm
content: It was genuine stuff bought from Amazon. It probably did a good job of reflecting heat, I just couldn't take the smell.
industry standard for socketed part installation  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: qwaarjet
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 21, 2016, 07:22:15 pm
content: I am designing a board that has several socketed components on it. Is there an industry standard call out to put in the assembly notes on how to install the parts.FYI the darts are DIP and ATO fuses.

author: pmbrunelle
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2016, 01:33:51 pm
content: I'm not sure there's such a standard... talk to your production guy and see what he wants?I would put the socketable parts in the BOM of the PCB assembly drawing to ensure that they are not left out.So essentially, you would have a populated PCB, and then an assembly drawing of the populated PCB + socketed parts assembly.In one instance where a TSSOP had to be installed a certain way, we did a detail view to show the pin 1 marker location to show the required orientation.

author: tsachi
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 27, 2016, 09:42:59 pm
content: I'm not aware of any standard either, but I'd like to add to what pmbrunelle noted :can you prepare ( manually ) one good pcb, take a picture of that and send that to the fabrication guy ?that way, after making one board, they will be able to "fix" any mistake, right ?Tsachi

author: station240
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 29, 2016, 02:13:45 am
content: You could rename the parts to use the prefix IC_SOCKET instead of just IC.I'd also make sure the IC part number is still visible on the PCB once the socket is installed. For DIP you may be able to fit the writing down the middle.
DIY pick and place software - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Koen
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2016, 03:01:53 pm
content: Hello,is one DIY pick and place control software sticking out from the others and available for sale at a reasonable price (< 500USD) ? Ideally with camera input for chip rotation.I read some projects blogs and some kit machines documentations and they all seem to have their own software coded from zero which they do not sell.I would like to assemble a machine and not have to deal with software too much by lack of time. Something ala LinuxCNC EMC2 which is ready-to-roll after tweaking a few configuration files would be great.Thank you,Koen

author: tridentsx
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 25, 2016, 05:55:27 am
content: You can have a look at Open pnphttp://openpnp.org/https://github.com/openpnp/openpnphttps://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/openpnp

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 25, 2016, 12:17:37 pm
content: www.liteplacer.comOk, that is indeed from a "kit machine with its own software coded from zero which they do not sell" l but it is open source, free for non-commercial use (here, commercial means selling p&p machines or software as a business).
MesoGlue - is this a real thing? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tombi
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2016, 05:26:56 am
content: http://mesoglue.com/How do you de-solder the components if you want to service the board?

author: retrolefty
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2016, 12:30:52 pm
content: I read the below as they really haven't developed any practical products proven to work outside their facilities. Most likely still looking for investment at this time rather then customers.Quote

author: ConKbot
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2016, 12:50:22 pm
content: QuoteI see a lot of vacuum equipment, perhaps plasma cleaning to strip any oxides, adding a filler material, and then placing the items together to let it cold-weld?Looks like there is a surface treatment involved to give it a specific texture too.

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2016, 09:44:46 pm
content: Safety of nano-materials released (unintentionally) into the environment is a growing, global issue of major concern.Because of their size, they have unique properties that often are completely different than those of the non-nanoscale equivalent. However, the regulatory environment still has not adjusted, nor has product labeling.The video shows shapes that are somewhat suggestive of nanofibers of high aspect ratio. Some fiber-like nano-scale materials have been shown to be extremely dangerous. their size means they can be carried very far by the normal movement of particles in the air - their weight is so low that they basically behave quite unpredictably, for example, like a gas. They are only visible using technologies which are quite difficult to access such as electron microscopy.MSDS's or their other national equivalents consistently fail at explaining any of this for nanomaterials used in marketed products.
Wall warts vs cable bumps... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: westfw
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2016, 11:45:48 pm
content: Are there regulatory, manufacturing, or technical reasons that low-power DC power supplies tend to be in "wall wart" form rather than "cable bump" form? The latter would tend to make plugging into power strips much easier...(Or is it largely historical, dating to a time when "few" electronics devices had such supplies, and powerStrips were rare?)

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2016, 11:51:42 pm
content: The problem is with the power stips not the wall warts.POS power strips with narrow outlet spacings are from another millenia.

author: djQUAN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2016, 01:07:39 am
content: I would guess that wall warts save a few $ on mains rated cables, mains input connector and could make it pass easier on safety/emc approvals.

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2016, 01:11:47 am
content: Quote from: westfw on January 18, 2016, 11:45:48 pmWall wart plug packs are cheaper to manufacture as the DC cable contains less copper & less insulation than the AC cable.This also makes the product cheaper to ship as there is less weight.Manufacturing costs dictate almost everything when designing a mass production item.

author: mariush
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2016, 04:16:17 am
content: It can also be a case of saving money and time.The company can buy a AC-DC adapter from a power supply manufacturer that spent the money to certify that design, a design that follows various standards of various countries and there's documentation proving it.A product that works on small voltage needs less approvals, certifications etc o the company can concentrate on making the actual product.Also, with the adapter outside the product's case, there's less risk of noise from the transformer and from the switching at high frequencies (40kHz+) which could badly influence chips on the circuit board of whatever device. I would guess it also makes the device easier to pass through RF/EMI/etc tests.

author: matseng
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2016, 06:35:36 am
content: Quote from: tautech on January 18, 2016, 11:51:42 pmNah, I rather say that they are from this millenium. The everlasting chase for cost reductions and profit maximisation makes everything smaller and tighter until the manufacturing costs start to increase again when the parts gets too small to handle efficiently.Tools costs about the same as 30 years ago, but contains like 50% less metal and worse quality, airliner seats have smaller pitch, a tin of XYZ have the same price as last year but in a new "improved" packaging that looks the same but with 15% less product contents....
Pick and Place control - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Emil
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2015, 09:12:20 am
content: If you were to purchase a desktop size Pick and Place machine, how would you prefer it to be controlled?

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 01, 2016, 04:40:52 pm
content: Don't care how it's controlled as long as it doesn't require a Windows computer.

author: Jeroen3
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2016, 04:51:50 pm
content: With a single USB cable or Ethernet cable that just works without installing random libraries that "almost" work and require hacking.Could be a Windows application, but obviously not for the actuator control part.

author: Kjelt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2016, 05:51:43 pm
content: Ethernet and an open source API.

author: rich
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2016, 06:20:15 pm
content: Quote from: Kjelt on January 01, 2016, 05:51:43 pmYou beat me to it.I would add "well documented" as a requirement for the API.and once started, machine can continue without network access.
TG grade for PCB manufacture / Assembly. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2015, 12:02:35 am
content: Woudl be interested to know of your experiences of using various TG Grades of PCB, and why you choose the various things;My end product is'nt goign to run hot, so that is not a driver for the selcetion. its a pretty standard 4 layer stack, 1.6mm thick. The solder process is lead free ( PbF ). The new PCB assembler I'm auditioning with a few project wants to use TG-170 but the boards end up nearly twice the price of TG-140 or TG-150I've not had delamination issues using it before.IS this an ultra cautious approach on their part or should i run with this suggestion?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2015, 04:59:16 am
content: My understanding, TG should be higher for higher soldering processes (lead free).Probably a bigger deal for larger, thinner boards, with fine pitch and leadless components that are sensitive to warpage.Tim

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2015, 12:52:34 pm
content: The boards being twice as expensive tells you everything: nobody is using them. First time I have heard about needing higher TG PCBs for lead free anyway. Soldering lead free doesn't take ultra high temperatures compared to leaded soldering processes. If they have problems with lower TG PCBs I'd assume they have problems controlling their soldering process.

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2015, 05:59:18 pm
content: Quote from: nctnico on December 12, 2015, 12:52:34 pmTheres a decent amount of sensible-ness in that comment.

author: eva liang
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 21, 2015, 09:01:08 am
content: as for 4 layer pcb board, it will ususlly be TG150 material,isn't it? there is many 4layer pcb board with TG150 to solder directly.it seems have no problem.if you have no special demand, i think TG150 will be fine.

author: John_ITIC
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 21, 2015, 09:21:22 pm
content: I use TG180 boards in 10 layers for advanced projects. Some have been reworked 10+ times without any delamination issues. I suspect a higher-TG board is more resilient to warping and the like, which is important when using BGAs. Non-leaded usually TG150.
Recommended PCB assembler  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Pedro147
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2015, 07:18:10 am
content: I am after some advice as to how to go about having some 27mm x 32mm PCB,s populated with parts that I will supply here in Australia, Canberra if possibleunlikely I know. Mainly SMD passives - 0603 and 0805, 1.25mm, 1.5mm and 2mm sockets, IRLML6244 mosfets, QFN-44 (ATMEGA32U4-MUR), 3mm x 3mm QFN TPS6300 and a 16-pin LGA package ICM-20608-G gyro. I apologise if I am asking this question in an unconventional manner but this is well out of my normal sphere of experience. I have heard Dave Jones mention about having some boards assembled here in Australia. It would only be initially a few boards just to test prior to a larger batch being populated by machine. Thanks for reading and hopefully offering some advice Pedro.

author: crispy_tofu
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2015, 08:37:28 am
content: The EEVBlog Wiki has a list of PCB Assemblers:http://www.eevblog.com/wiki/index.php?title=PCB_AssemblersIt's a bit outdated though...Looking on Google, it doesn't seem that there are any assemblers in Canberra, but there are a few in Sydney (e.g.https://puzzleprecision.com.au/, who specialise in SMD, I have no affiliation with them).Hope this helps!

author: Korken
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2015, 05:32:38 pm
content: I use PCBCart and Macrofab, both do good work (at this size).

author: slowertech
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2015, 08:50:40 pm
content: I really like MacroFab but they are based in Texas.

author: Pedro147
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 11, 2015, 03:23:03 am
content: Sorry to all of you that replied, but I did not have email notifications set in my preferences and only just came back to the forum today. Thanks for all the suggestionsPeter

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 11, 2015, 09:58:57 pm
content: If You want a competitvely priced Australian source quick turnaround servicewww.iconicpcb.com

author: Pedro147
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 12, 2015, 05:05:56 am
content: Thanks blueskull, a $3,400 investment sounds viable doesn't it, NOT
Wanted: LED Packaging With Semiconductor Die Factory / Contact - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2016, 04:24:50 am
content: Hi, i'm looking for a manufacturer who can pack RGB led dies and a Custom Semiconductor Die into a single Through hole top hat / straw hat package..There are similar sorts of things like the WS2811 inside a led.. i have a different IC, and different setup, but am struggling to find a manufacture

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2016, 10:24:49 am
content: If you do find someone please share experience and costs/MOQ-would be really interesting to know.did you contact Worldsemi, who make the WS2812 chips?

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2016, 11:14:19 am
content: This company can do some custom led runs.Dunno if they can do what you want but might be worth askinghttp://ledz.com/Used to be called Hebeiltd LEDs
Best  gerber files online viewer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JacquesBBB
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 02, 2015, 03:20:34 pm
content: Hi,I have just finished my first PCB with Eagle and generated the gerber files.There are many possibilities for Gerver viewers, but not many of them seem to provide both- High accuracy- Complete view of the PCB with drilled vias.What are the best online gerver viewers you would recommend along these lines.Thanks

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 02, 2015, 03:36:48 pm
content: ZofZ. All the rest is crap.

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 02, 2015, 03:38:39 pm
content: Quote from: free_electron on October 02, 2015, 03:36:48 pm+1

author: matseng
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 02, 2015, 03:45:24 pm
content: Unfortunately it's not so much "Online" as the OP (and I) wish for. Windows only...

author: miguelvp
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 02, 2015, 03:50:28 pm
content: http://mayhewlabs.com/webGerber/it's not great but works most of the time as long as you have good gerber files, otherwise it can get confused.Edit: I think it has problems with drill holes.

author: codeboy2k
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 02, 2015, 05:22:33 pm
content: Quote from: matseng on October 02, 2015, 03:45:24 pmIf you're using Linux, not OS X, then as I postedhere, ZofZ works fine in Wine, with the exception of the font issues (inter-character spacing is not correct in the menus)

author: JacquesBBB
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2015, 07:01:20 pm
content: Quote from: free_electron on October 02, 2015, 03:36:48 pmDespite it is not an online viewer, I agree that it is quite nice. Unfortunately I have a mac. I have tried it through Parallel, but the supposedly intuitive interface is far from intuitive for me. I was not able to find how to zoom.So I am still looking for a good online gerber file viewer, that would show, as in zofz, the full finished pcb, with the drilling.Here is the view from ZofZ of my board. It is not with full resolution, as it is just a screen view.

author: NF6X
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 07, 2015, 03:02:48 pm
content: I have been using (offline) gerbv on my Mac, but I need to find a replacement that renders slot cycles in drill files. Gerbv just renders the initial plunge holes, not the finished slots.

author: jeroen74
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 07, 2015, 03:06:40 pm
content: You could try the PCB visualizer on eurocircuits.com

author: NF6X
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 07, 2015, 03:27:30 pm
content: Thank you for your suggestion. Unlike the original poster, I want an offline viewer.
Favorite BGA tools? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: drwho9437
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2015, 09:29:03 pm
content: I've done a few 200-300 ball 1 mm pitch BGAs with just hot air and plates. What tools do you guys like for BGA work including reballing?This is mostly for 1 offs. Looked on eBay some IR, reflow ovens etc. Don't know what is good though...

author: John_ITIC
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2015, 07:32:11 am
content: Zephyrtronics ZT-7http://www.zeph.com/zt-7.htm

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 02, 2015, 03:38:51 pm
content: Weller WHA 3000 systemi have one. works like a champ. bought it at De Anza flea market for 300$ ... then found the hot plate for it on ebay for 200$
Elecrow Rush service - 2-3day - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 06, 2015, 11:43:48 am
content: 8:35PMPaid and submitted PCB gerbers to elecrow using their 2-3day "Rush service" which cost $25 extra on my order (20pcs, 5x10cm, ENIG)9:30PMGot email saying their engineer was checking my gerbers10:17PMGot email saying my board was being put into production and it will take 2 daysI'm very impressed.It usually takes like 2-3 days for my gerbers to be accepted when i use their regular service.2-3 hours is awesome, totally worth $25

author: unitedatoms
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2015, 05:24:00 pm
content: Thank you for review. I decided to use same 12HR rush on Elecrow for 2 layers 100x200mm x5 boards order with 2-3 days DHL. Lets see what happens.Aug 21st 1PM: sent the files and paid.Aug 21st 9:36PM: email about "recieved your order and the gerber file"Aug 22nd 5:50AM:weekendemail "going into production. Will take 2 business days"Aug 24th 11:18PM: email "withpicturethat boards are shipped expect delivery in 1-5 days"Aug 26th 1:10PM: arrived! The order was for 5 boards, there is 7 boards in the package!Other notes:Elecrow.com: $129.70with delivery included. Great. Using them right now.Seeedstudio: paid $70for the same order. I gave up waiting for their Singapore Post after 17 days.Pcbmanufacturing.com: $39after discount. The online system has no way to upload the files. Gave up on them. Possibly lost $39. Edit: they confirmed 36 hours later through email that the system has no capability to upload the gerbers. Paypal resolved the transaction dispute in my favor. May be Pcbmanufacturing.com is a good company, but I do not like the habit of charging before accepting gerbers. Will not do business with them.Customcircuitboards.com: Quote is $450.Too highMorePCB, China:My best supplier so far. The very odd designs are done fast, cheap and with excellent communication. I wish I sticked to them for this board, but thought that Seeedstudio Fusion is faster - wrong. It is my fault to not understand that Fusion means "whenever".Other USA quotes: All >$400do not remember whom I tried. No way.OSHPark.com: quote is about $200.Well. A bit too expensive and not as fast (but will try them for may be next something).

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2015, 12:43:12 am
content: Since then I've also used their fastest service which cost 60 more.It was equally as impressiveOf cause it probably does depend on the time the order is submittedCant expect them to start work right away if gerbers are submited outside of china working hours
Test tracks on a v-scored panel - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2015, 10:15:04 am
content: How to get a test track past a V-score line intact(ish)

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 14, 2015, 08:24:00 pm
content: Neat trick!Just a little bit of nitpicking: I thought the topic was a question but it actually is very nice solution.
Pick and Place Machine by ProtoVoltaics - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ProtoVoltaics
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2015, 02:42:04 pm
content: We've been making boards for some time now and decided we needed a PNP, but we couldn't find one worth having. So, we made our own!The machine has vision and uses it to align for both part pick up and part placement. We also made our very own automatic feeders. We have tested, and can place accurately parts as small as 0402. We think we can do smaller, but we are waiting for a new smaller pick head to come in to start testing. Also, we can accurately place IC parts.We hope to be able to put our machines up for sale soon. I believe our software really sets us apart from whats available now. We can place IC, we can place more than one board at the same time, we have auto tool changing, and we can place 700-850 CPH. We think we can speed the current make up a little more to place ~1000 CPH.If you wish to follow the project as we close in on the finish line you can visit our hackaday page.https://hackaday.io/project/5200-pick-and-place-machinePlease let us know your thoughts. We are eager for community input!-Ryan

author: ProtoVoltaics
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2015, 02:44:30 pm
content: Here is our latest video, hope to have something better quality soon. Possibly a video of multi-board placement.https://youtu.be/C7Pi4akL5og

author: ProtoVoltaics
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2015, 05:18:59 pm
content: https://youtu.be/DLqMLY7oD14
Agfa inkjet ink for etch resist - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: chicken
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2015, 01:15:51 am
content: Interesting tidbit for home etchers, and probably batch PCB production as well: Agfa developed inkjet ink for direct use as etch resisthttp://youtu.be/pfWb5xr1X1o(about halfway into the video)

author: steve_w
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2015, 10:09:53 pm
content: Here is a aussy version for the masseshttp://cartesianco.com/pages/argentumregardsSteve W

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2015, 10:24:17 pm
content: Further reading :http://www.google.com/patents/WO2013113572A1?cl=enIt's a UV-cured ink.I imagine it would need a special inkjet head.

author: Deathwish
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 06, 2015, 10:29:44 pm
content: Pfft, I have no interest in it , wait till they have everyone hooked and watch the price of cartridges go sky high as others. another way to get the money out of your pocket. I'm happy enough doing it the old way or maybe getting a cnc milling machine together.

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2015, 10:39:09 pm
content: Quote from: Deathwish on August 06, 2015, 10:29:44 pmYou're not their target market -you won't see this in cartridges for normal printers. This will be aimed PCB manufacturers to replace or complement photo processes.

author: Deathwish
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 06, 2015, 10:39:55 pm
content: Fair enough.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2015, 11:04:39 pm
content: Quote from: mikeselectricstuff on August 06, 2015, 10:24:17 pmWhy?

author: chicken
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2015, 11:07:38 pm
content: Quote from: mikeselectricstuff on August 06, 2015, 10:24:17 pmA bit of Google sleuthing brought up this deck from 2013, including references to competitors:http://www.agfa.com/sp/global/en/binaries/Ink%20Jet%20ER%20-%20PR%20May%202013_tcm611-119364.pptLooks like Agfa was a bit late to the game.. I like the "don't forget film" encouragement at the end

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2015, 12:02:47 am
content: Quote from: tautech on August 06, 2015, 11:04:39 pmBecause it isn't a water based ink, and it probably needs to deposit more of it than normal ink on paper.
Does anyone have experience purchasing semiconductor fab tools on ebay? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: semiconman
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 01, 2015, 03:46:02 pm
content: Budgeting for 2016, I could get a nice tool for cheap on ebay. This mask aligner specifically:http://www.ebay.com/itm/-/261950938891Is the process (payment, shipping, etc) going to be a headache?Any pointers are appreciated.

author: HighVoltage
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 01, 2015, 04:02:41 pm
content: Where in the world are you?I have bought production equipment from the US and had it shipped to Germany and had no problem.Payment was made with international wire transfer.But before I would buy anything of this price magnitude, I would have it inspected and then make a real contract.Depending on the seller and his reputation, you might want to use an escrow service.Unless you are around the corner from this seller and you inspect it yourself.

author: semiconman
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 02, 2015, 02:00:45 am
content: Thanks for the pointers, very helpful.Im in the US and so is the tool. I dont think shipping would be too much of an issue.I guess I have a stigma about ebay. Would someone blow their reputation for $100k?

author: rs20
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2015, 02:02:22 am
content: QuoteWoohoo!

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 02, 2015, 02:03:25 am
content: Wow, that's a serious bit of kit.What do you need it for?

author: helius
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2015, 02:49:45 am
content: Neat device. I wasn't aware aligners were still in use!

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2015, 03:44:55 am
content: For that money, i'd do an inspection and talk to the vendor, you may be able to negotiate with them for a lower price to deal outside of ebay if you wish.

author: rs20
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2015, 04:12:31 am
content: Quote from: peter.mitchell on July 02, 2015, 03:44:55 amOf course, this is technicallynot allowed.

author: semiconman
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 02, 2015, 04:19:19 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on July 02, 2015, 02:03:25 amdon't need it in the slightest, but we are always trying to increase yield and quality. We aren't at the scale where 200k for the tool would be hugely cost effective, but if I can acquire it and alter for 6" for under $85k, then it's a no brainer.
SMD Tray Return/Recycle - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mats@Multiguard
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 22, 2015, 01:45:26 pm
content: Hey,Does anyone have any tip on what to do with empty SMD trays?Do you just throw them away or do you return them somewhere for reuse?Im working for a PCB manufacturer, and as time goes by we have about 350 trays stored. Seems like a shame to throw them away.-Mats

author: TheElectricChicken
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2015, 01:58:33 pm
content: what are they made from ? sometimes the type of plastic is stamped on it as a code to guide recyclers on what to do with it. However, you might post some picture and we could suggest re-use options. There are often people who want storage trays for all kinds of things. You might also look for recycle and re-use networks in your area. 'freecycle' is a name of one, can't recall where it is though.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2015, 02:41:53 pm
content: We have bins for plastic nowadays so they end up in that bin. I'm sure they can be recycled.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2015, 03:43:26 pm
content: They can even be reused. I used to keep em handy to break in pieces to hand out samples.