hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
"858" hot air gun handle first run / burn in -- smoke? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: none
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2022, 04:49:57 pm
content: Briefly (1-2 s) applying 230 VAC mains voltage to a "858, 858D, 878A, 878D and 878D+" hot air solder station handle with the fan running at about 25% (of course these are not meant to be run without control loop) results in pretty dense smoke coming out of it... is this the normal "burn in" result?DC resistance at room temperature is about 70 Ohms, that would be 750 W, quite a lot (but it matches what I have read elsewhere).On a different note, this also means about 3.3 A rms (4.6 A peak) - isn't that a little much for the tiny wires?For 120 VAC this results in 200W, 1.7 A rms (2.4 peak) - sounds a litte more realistic to me. Are these units built for the north and central Americas?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2022, 09:35:29 pm
content: Dense smoke is not normal. A small amount of smoke is normal as oils, etc. from manufacturing are burnt off.But maybe something was not assembled quite right or bit of plastic was left in the heater area.You can easily take the handle apart if you want to look inside to ensure its grounded and nothing is out of place. There is some ceramic heater core with wrapped nichrome, then mica sheet insulation wrapped around that.Could also try setting the temperature really low.Power consumption is usually in the ~300-500W range, probably less at only 25% fan. Do you have a kill-a-watt style power meter you can use to measure it from the wall?

author: RayRay
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2022, 04:34:41 pm
content: IMO, it's more than likely that you've received it with the wrong handle!The heating element for 858 is not dual voltage, and from the outside, the handles look identical (Some em of em are marked with a voltage sticker, but not all). The same thing happened to me when I've ordered my 230v 858D, and I've resolved it by replacing the element, that said, you could also purchase a spare handle instead. The sellers sometimes check if the station is operational before sending, or even add other goodies into the box (such as tweezers/solder assist tools/flux) and if they do this with multiple stations at once on the same work desk, with the handles not always clearly marked for voltage, this can happen!

author: none
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2022, 06:32:58 am
content: Thanks folks, I should have emphasized more that I am using the handle only.But if yours uses 300-500 W, mine can't be a 120VAC version, so that clears that up.At 1/10 duty-cycle and 25% fan it reaches hair dryer temperatures.It seems the few seconds at full power are too much already...Once I have the thermocouple measurement and the control loop running properly, I'll post more data.

author: kripton2035
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2022, 06:59:16 am
content: mine went out in smoke also (and the handle was melting...), but after a few years of light use... I bought a quick 861 after that !
Help identifying TFT Display - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Armur73
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 21, 2022, 11:45:15 pm
content: Friend gave me bunch of displays he found while dumpster diving, they are visually in great condition but i cannot figure out pinout and how to drive them / what driver is used. Can someone help me? There are some informations on the back but i cannot find anything by googling them.

author: DavidAlfa
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2022, 12:33:42 am
content: Should have noted down the device where he took them from.Sometimes schematics or service manuals can be found, making this much easier!

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2022, 01:27:16 am
content: If you have many and they are identical, then sacrificing one of them to look more closely at the COG for identifying markings might be a good idea. Giving us the approximate dimensions and possible resolution can also help finding similar models to get comparisons with.

author: Armur73
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 22, 2022, 03:02:40 pm
content: So i tried sacrifising one, on the COG there is no marking but there was a sticker from the bottom. From that i think that the resolution is 192x64, dimmensions are about 75x38mm which is about 3,3". I still cannot find any with 30pin connection in this size and resolution.

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2022, 05:20:25 pm
content: That doesn't look like a TFT to me, looks like a monochrome passive matrix LCD. It can be pretty difficult to figure out the pinout if you have no information at all and no access to the equipment it came from.

author: DavidAlfa
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2022, 09:48:34 pm
content: Found this but the pinout doesn't seem to match.https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Graphic-LCD-SPI-Interface-192x64-Dot_1600288639254.html?spm=a2700.galleryofferlist.normal_offer.d_image.47593157nq2Lg4

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2022, 12:43:58 am
content: TMGG19264-01-VJ075 - here's someone who has what appears to be a 128x64 from the same manufacturer:https://www.embeddedrelated.com/showthread/comp.arch.embedded/90237-1.phpA bit more digging with "bruteforcing" part numbers and we manage to find the manufacturer:http://3t-lcd.com/display.htmDoes the pinout of the TMGG160100 seem to match?
ATTEN 858d "calibration" - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: holmsn
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 23, 2014, 12:12:21 am
content: Got one of these yesterday from Amazon UK mindful of some the safety issues etc of these units.Earthing wise it's all good bonded to the earth pin <1ohm but it's a bit annoying that the temps are so adrift of reality i.e the "100" C setting is actually about 160 C as measured with a Fluke K thermocouple - not unusable for heatshrink of course ; at "300" its about 335 C so closer with same thermocouple cooking its insulation slightly but still valid I think. Question is have I got a faulty unit which I could return or is there some adjustment that could be made ? - the Cal adjustment on the front doesn't seem to do much, the online manual makes no mention either.I wondered if the local voltage here (240 nominal) might be too high measured today with one of those energy measure gadgets as 244V, which would push up the energy output of the heater, 10% volts increase is a 20% power increase isn't it ?, anyway any links to any other threads appreciated

author: GEuser
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 23, 2014, 12:49:08 pm
content: Everyone left you be and Hi , try a search about , look for a internal picture somewhere , I would think there would be a internal calibration to fiddle with , I do not have your gadget but the gadget I have has a internal or calibration pot if one wants to call it that .good luck ...

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 23, 2014, 12:58:15 pm
content: Here's a way to calibrate the 858D on its archived thread:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/chat/deadly-wiring-fault-atten-858d-hot-air-rework-station/msg54588/#msg54588Before any adjustments insure you follow the Hakko procedures as they are similar to any hot air station calibration. If your nozzle is not the right size, nozzle distance set and fan speed is incorrect, the temperature will vary widely. If your unit temperature is erratic thereafter, I would presume a fault somewhere.

author: DavidAlfa
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2022, 09:14:04 am
content: I no longer find the manual but I think it was described there...That's the offset adjustment, here's how I did it:Set a medium temperature, ex. 350ºC, measure the output, then enter the calibration menu and adjust the difference.(Should be negative if it's heating over the specified value).The thermocouple placement will change your readings a lot.The hot air stream will mix with the ambient air, so measure it at a normal working distance, no inside the nozzle!I did it at 10mm distance...Edit: Checked it, 1 year later it's still spot-on!Sorry for the dirt, I had a little issue with a glue tube bursting out, still figuring out how to remove it
Canberra Unispec/Ortec microBase drivers and software - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DaJMasta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2020, 10:49:03 pm
content: Sort of test equipment, but more scientific equipment, I've got an older Canberra Unispec USB MCA that I'd like to get up and running and I was wondering if someone had related drivers or an approach to try for getting things running. These units were originally designed by Target Insight and were also sold as Ortec microBase MCBs, though I think they all use the "tarumca" driver files. I believe Canberra's (now Mirion) Genie 2000 and Ortec's Maestro 32 software could talk to them, though I think the current versions have both dropped support.Right now, if I plug the unit in, it installs as an Unprogrammed Cypress EZ USB FX chip (the driver is actually from an Ocean Optics spectrometer driver pack, I guess they have units with the same chip), I've popped it open and verified that it has a CY7C64613-128 chip as the USB communications chip, this has an external NAND flash under the chip on the board, and on the closest daughter board there's a Lattice I2064VE-100L PLD and the remaining boards seem to generate the high voltage and actually digitize the pulses. My goal is to get it to communicate over a USB virtual com port or similar, which should free it up to work with a lot of MCA software even without stated compatibility, but I've been unable to get it recognized as a VCP so far, so I haven't been able to communicate with it. The EZ USB FX chip is older than the numbered FX line, so I'm not certain current drivers/development tools are quite right for it, and I don't believe the NAND flash is actually dead and the unit really is unprogrammed because I've seen the same behavior on a second unit.Does anyone have a suitable driver for these units? Does anyone know how to get it? Is there a generic VCP driver for the EZ USB FX that I'm missing that may be suitable to get command access to the unit, at least? I have a hunch that there are at least a few around the forums that have actually used these units before, even if long ago in a professional or academic setting, and maybe there's a bit of information that can send me down the right rabbit hole.

author: han@medusa-online.com
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 20, 2022, 09:41:21 pm
content: Dear DajMasta - I 'm wondering wether you have found a way to get the Unispec MCA working - we have a bunch of these devices and want to get them working for a student project. ANy info on how to use them on a win64 platform would be greatly appreciated!Han
Youtube: VideoNow (Storing video on audio CD) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Berni
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2022, 12:10:27 pm
content: Interesting repurpose of a audio CD player mechanism to play back video.The quality does not look great but by the time they came out with the color model it is actually pretty impressive.Given this is from the early 2000s and had to be as cheep as possible while also running for a long time from AA batteries means they could not afford the processing horsepower to do proper video decompression. So it seams like they just packed raw video data into the CD audio bits. As shown in the video the discs are just normal audio CDs that play just fine in any audio CD player, except that the audio is ear raping garbage with some of the videos actual audio heard in there. Meaning that not even the audio is compressed, likely just resampled to a lower quality in order to make space for the video. For the color version they likely likley had to squeeze a bit more efficiency out of the format.Not that this is practical or anything these days, but it is a pretty cool trick to just pack video data straight into audio, then decode it back real time using underpowered and cheap electronics.The insides of it can be seen here:https://forum.videohelp.com/threads/371489-Ripping-and-Converting-VideoNow-Discs
China WK-968 / DA-968 Ultrasonic cleaner schematic (Ultcrapsonic noise maker) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DavidAlfa
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2022, 11:16:13 am
content: Saw a good offer and I couldn't resist (3-day shipping for $25), I bought one to clean stuff.Not sure of its capabilities, I barely have used it, just dropped some water and turned it on. Crazy noise came out, guess it's working.I checked several schematics but they were all different, so I reverse-engineered it during the breakfast (Was a quite long breakfast) and they are, attached for the curious.Switching between 35/50W modes is done by simply rectifying half or full-wave, as the output capacitor is just 1uF it won't filter much...I replaced C1B with 10uF, the operation seems more powerful and considerably way less noisier due the reduced mains modulating the ultrasonic waves (But the transistors overheated, so don't do it).Edit: It blowed up today (Nothing serious, water seeped in and burned a track, no parts damaged), while fixing it I noticed some parts had wrong reference numbers. Fixed.
Lego Back to the Future Time Machine - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: isometrik
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2022, 08:00:30 pm
content: Dave will certainly love this.https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/back-to-the-future-time-machine-10300"Coming Soon on April 1, 2022" : Let's hope it's not like one of Dave's April 1st videos.
modification of my JBC HD-2B soldering station to work with 24V and 48V tips - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mariusgl11
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 15, 2022, 06:34:35 pm
content: modification of my JBC HD-2B soldering station to work with 24V and 48V tipsI need more photo of schematics or inside modified station. Thanks
Power tools battery revive, unlock Rigid battery pack with NXP804 Arm MCU - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dvd4me
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2022, 03:45:05 pm
content: Hello,Have you ever thought of reviving your power tool battery after leaving-it long time discharged?Or try to still make use of it while having errors and not accepting a charge?These power tools battery packs do not come cheap, right? So it’s totally worth-it to try to fix the problem and re-use them. And save the planet one item at a time.I just found the other day in Home Depot recycle bin a Rigid battery, completely dead. They carry the Rigid brand, so it makes sense to go there buy the new one while throw away the old one.The pack BMS it’s based on a NXP LPC804 ARM Cortex MCU to manage the charging and cells.I was thinking to try the same strategy as for the Dyson battery packs and read the eeprom… Discouraging idea, since the debugging tools are pricey and it’s not justified for the price of one battery saving.After digging around the signal pads on the BMS I see the JTAG pins are there, in a special location, most probably used for factory programming.Re-charging the cells to a decent voltage 3.4V, should be acceptable for the pack to start to charge in the charger. But the pack is locked, no sign of life.Then it just hits me. What if I just reset the CPU to start all over again? As simple as that, it works!Rigid packs are not as paranoid as Dyson to permanently lock the failure even if the unbalancing or the over discharge fail is corrected.This strategy most probably works with other packs, you just need to try.You can see here the whole process:https://youtu.be/H6eiMTtYxjI

author: DavidAlfa
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2022, 01:59:46 pm
content: If it broke? Bad luck.But they make a crappy design on purpose to unbalance the batteries and prematurely kill the pack.What are they going to argue? We, a huge company with hundreds of engineers, didn't know about "balancing"?We had to save $0.25 on our $100 battery due manufactoring costs?I hope the countries greatky increase the fines for doing so, to the point these companies don't ever think on doing that again.That kind of intentional behavior has already cost millions to companies like Apple, but they require a big collective to fund millions and go for it, few angry workers have no chance...
Any review on Mijing LWS-301 intelligent Laser Welding Station? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sn4k3
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2022, 12:51:55 am
content: Recently i step on this:https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003791546737.htmlLaser soldering without the problem of the air flow. Something i wait for sometime.Looks great in theory but anyone have any experience with such device?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2022, 10:20:49 pm
content: The youtube vid is amazing.QuoteQuoteSo I guess beam size is large enough that its somewhat safe to use without laser goggles.And there is not temperature regulation, so you must manually control everything, and shut off power once the part is loose.Questions:- How does it work so well on reflective components, you'd think most of the energy would not reach the IC.- The ramp rate is so high it will damage components, so to be safe do you need to dial it back to the same ramp rate you'd use on hot air anyway?
ATTEN ST-990 vs ATTEN ST-1509 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DL90
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 11, 2022, 02:54:28 am
content: ST-990 is newer (this model began to be sold some months ago) but ST-1509 is compatible with different tools (including hot tweezers)ATTEN ST-990:https://es.aliexpress.com/item/1005003980886993.htmlATTEN ST-1509:https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003660996623.htmlWhich one should I buy? Or maybe there is a better option for this budget?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 11, 2022, 09:59:33 pm
content: Interesting the ST-990 looks a bit like a Pace tip.The 1509 is TRS.Unless you need the tweezer option, I would get an Aixun or a T12 clone with lots of tips.

author: DL90
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 12, 2022, 03:45:07 am
content: What does TRS mean?I thought these ATTEN stations were better than a T12 clone, even better than an AIXUNis AIXUN trustworthy? I've read a lot of issues in its topic

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2022, 09:41:36 pm
content: Tip ring sleeve.Low current connectors intended for audio use.Atten will be more trustworthy than aixun sure, but, if you want that then buy a JBC or other major brand instead.
I need a workhorse lase printer for printing and toner transfer, cheap.. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2022, 02:14:58 am
content: Does anybody have any suggestions?I need to replace my Samsung ML 2510 A workhorse.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2022, 10:53:58 am
content: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/best-printer-for-toner-transfer/
CH341a v1.6/1.7 with fixed output voltage - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2022, 02:33:53 am
content: Apparently you can get now a CH341a programmer with the output voltages fixed.The video (dated 2/14/2022) refers to version 1.6 but apparently version 1.7 is already out on some aliexpress listings.

author: Sereno011
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 03, 2022, 10:25:54 am
content: I'd be skeptical for the time being about those listings. All the photos I've seen show v1.5 on the boards despite what the listings say. Even the listing Adam provided in the video now says v1.7 despite still having a pic of v1.5. Even though the one in his video shows v1.6. If your not in a hurry for a new one I'd hold off while all this gets sorted out. So many revisions in a short period seems like there may have been stability issues, and personally I'd rather not gamble. Tool may be cheap but dealing with corrupted dump files is costly.Incidentally, here's a link I found for the latest NeoProgrammer software: v2.2.0.10<https://www.mediafire.com/file/1263zy82q612ub4/NeoProgrammer_V2.2.0.10.zip/file>This latest software version seems to differentiate whether you have the original (black) or newer (green) version of the CH341A. The previous v2.2.0.8 Adam linked to in his vid did not.

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2022, 01:53:47 pm
content: I picked up a second one of the cheap black ones on ebay. I've done the 3V3 mod on one of them, and taken the 3V3 regulator off the other one for 5V parts. I don't see me needing to program 1.8 or 2.5V parts in the foreseeable future.I don't know, but I suspect that it may be the cheaper option, at least for now.
Should I be worried of Inductive kick with an autotransformer for 230V to 110V ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: electronic_guy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2022, 02:34:40 pm
content: Hi,Usually when an inductive load is switched off there is a mechanism applied to stop the sudden current spike caused due to hight current change rate during switch off through the inductor.I have bought a chinese autotransformer (shown in picture) to convert 230V to 110V to power my Hakko fx888d soldering station. I have no way of knowing the inside of the autotransformer without dissecting it and that would break the warranty seal.Should I be really worried of this causing some damage to my soldering station when I switch off the autotransformer ?Thanks.

author: bob91343
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2022, 05:30:15 pm
content: No. If that worries you, leave the transformer energized and control the power at the load.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2022, 07:50:26 pm
content: Same as any other AC power switch... if the transient is annoying, wire a snubber across the switch or load.Inductive kick for a mechanical switch is more a matter of repetitive sparking and consequent emissions (EFT, electrical fast transients).Tim
Bypassing BMS to Increase Discharge Rate of LiFePO4 12v/45aH Battery - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Tekjive
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2022, 05:06:36 pm
content: Hey all, so I got lucky and scored quite a few Power Sonic PSL-12450E LiFePO4 lithium batteries along with a Ametek Powervar ABCE150-11M2 power inverter/data link 🤤 But after reviewing data sheet I see the discharge rate is maxed @ 25amps, not nearly enough for what I want to use them for. I bought them with the intentions of using them as my trunk battery bank for car audio (I tinker in all “electronic” fields, currently self teaching Class D amp repair:) so I want to remove/bypass the current limiter to max out the discharge rate, longevity is not what I am after here, do not care if it’s reduced battery life from 10+ years to 1+ year, but ya know a few years out of them would be cool 😅 so my goal is to charge them fully (currently charging each to max using my lab PS @ 14.6v/3a) They do have a battery capacity gauge that displays at push of a button, which I’d like to keep if possible, but main goal is to remove current discharge limiter and run 3-5 in parallel as my trunk battery bank, and of course safety is key, which I’m sure won’t be a problem with what I want to do, my stock alt (14.4v110a) with no upgrades is why I need such a large battery bank, I want to run about 3.5kW RMS.Any help/advice/insight, etc would be GREATLY appreciated, my budget dictates cheap as possible and this is a huge score for me, I think I have whatever needed to convert these (solder station, PC, etc) and by chance can this be programmed to remove limiter with the inverter, which has the datalink ports the batteries do and usb to connect to Pc, just an idea but don’t know if it’s possible. Thx all, best group on the net 😎Rich

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2022, 12:31:37 am
content: You'll need to:- Disassemble the battery to the point that you can analyze the BMS to see if its capable of 70A+. If it isn't, full BMS replacement required (~$40-80 each).- Analyze the cells, to ensure they can handle 90A+.If you don't care about it lasting a few years, sell them off and buy 2-3 lead-acid batteries. Then at least someone will be able to use them as intended.

author: Tekjive
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2022, 06:13:55 am
content: Ya I’m not looking to spend more, might have been a big for nothing post lol, thx for the advice tho, looking like it’s gona be a flip. Thx

author: NiHaoMike
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2022, 03:01:59 am
content: Take a look at R/C lipos or EV battery modules if you want a lot of current for cheap. Quite a few doing car audio use 4S packs which operate at about 16V.Or perhaps just go with higher voltage at a lower current. Large amplifiers all internally boost the voltage, so why not just supply that higher voltage to begin with?
Weller soldering iron power supply and pencil compatibilities? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: LiquidLogik
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 27, 2022, 11:42:59 pm
content: Hi,I have an old school Weller EC2100A-FE power supply and EC1201A-FE pencil. It works perfectly at the moment, but i am aware that the equipment is old and discontinued. So i'm wondering if newer pencils are compatible with the old power supply? And if so, how do i go about finding which pencils are compatible with it? I've tried to Google but i only get compatible tips with EC2100, which i believe there isn't a pencil called EC2100.Thanks

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2022, 10:27:05 pm
content: You already found the pencil was "EC1201" if you google that it will say "compatible with EC stations".Google that and it gives some options, eg:https://www.weller-tools.com/consumer/USA/us/Weller+Consumer/Soldering+Stations/Electronic%2C+Repair%2C+and+Everyday/EC1302BConsidering the base is only 40W, and its old tech, its not worth upgrading just the handle. A T12 clone with tips for <$50 will outperform it.
dual boom vs articulating microscope - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mastershake
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2022, 06:12:11 pm
content: im curious which do you prefer and why? im setting up some new stations and im undecided which way i want to go. i think i would prefer the motion of the articulating arm but how stable are they as far as vibrations go? we have all dual arm boom stands now. thoughts? what im doing is setting up some new stations for some people to learn on and im going to order some eakins or amscope micropscopes for them. the boom stands we have now (dual arm versions) may move over to those stations and i may replace our normal working ones with the articulating arms. some people have suggested to me they prefer the dual boom stands due to the vibrations they get when the working surface is touched or bumped etc with articulating arms. i have not long term used them myself so maybe some who use them daily vs the boom stands can chime in.thanks

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2022, 09:01:50 pm
content: I'm using a homebrew articulated arm based on a monitor arm. Kind of (see photo*). There is enough play in the system that the microscope head can be lifted (hang on... let me measure it...) near enough 30mm when it's a full stretch. However, the weight of the head also means there is no play unless you flex your muscles to lift it (and it is a bit of a lump). Don't normally have any vibration issues, but then I'm not banging things around when I'm peeking through it.I would expect an expensive commercial articulated arm to have considerably less play, but you can't get rid of it completely. Given the choice between this and a dual boom I think I would still go for this because of my desk layout.*The photo has a sheet backing it, not to hide anything specifically but because without there's too much clutter to easily make out what's on the arm, or even where it is.
Non-smelly ESD mats - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Rachie5272
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 27, 2022, 07:00:35 pm
content: I'm upgrading my lab, and need some ESD mats for my new tables. I'm having trouble finding quality mats though. The previous ones reek of chemical death, and the stench took months to dissipate. I'm not inclined to deal with that again. Unfortunately,every ESD mat review I've seen complains about the same issue. Does anyone know of mats without toxic offgassing?

author: richnormand
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 27, 2022, 07:38:34 pm
content: Try these folks:https://www.staticsolutions.com/product-category/mat-material/Got both floor and bench esd mats from them. Excellent stuff.Also see:https://staticstop.com/flooring-products/Stuff I got for the bench and floor did not have any issues.Since you did not provide a location shipping costs could be an issue.

author: KaneTW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 27, 2022, 07:42:00 pm
content: https://shop.wetec.de/produkte/egbesd/tisch-regalmatten/6108/wetec-tischbelag-esd?c=102822This is what I have. Smell on delivery, dissipated within a few days.
Google's Nest devices might catch a cold - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: madires
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2022, 06:16:55 pm
content: How to not design devices for outdoor use:- Google’s Nest Doorbell can’t take the cold:https://www.theverge.com/2022/2/18/22941018/google-nest-video-doorbell-nest-cam-cold-weather-charging-woes)- Google's support notice:https://support.google.com/googlenest/answer/11830989?hl=en&ref_topic=9360834

author: NiHaoMike
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2022, 09:16:22 pm
content: I think this belongs in "Dodgy Technology". The doorbell circuit should be capable of supplying plenty of power to run a camera, perhaps the decision to use a battery instead of a supercap for the IR flash is so it has a limited lifetime to ensure sales for future models.

author: themadhippy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2022, 10:36:39 pm
content: They do seem to have approached it arse backwards,using the permanent power to trickle charge the battery that's powering the circuit

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 27, 2022, 03:18:22 pm
content: They do it because its right there already. My doorbell (this seems fairly standard here in the US) is 24volt AC. Use a (bridge rectifier) and a voltage regulator to get whatever you need.
Eakins Blurry Tri Port - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Hundleton1
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2022, 11:50:45 am
content: Hi All, I have a Eakins Trinocular Scope and I am starting to think something is bad with the Tri Port. I have a few different cameras now and no matter what one I use things are still blurry/ soft even when in focus. been trying a few, the latest is THE 38MP FHD Black one. its almost like the optics are misaligned somewhat but im still not 100% its not the cameras or focus system. Its certainly not clear.The main optics are perfect its just the Tri port/CameraNow its possible I am expecting more than its capable of of perhaps these cameras are still garbage but was wondering does anyone have any experience on this ?I'm thinking for the content I create just buying Andonstar AD409 LCD ones tbh.Any thoughts or suggestions would be great.Link to some images -https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1DZ2-GmCKSUnzNXdGjjwOLZd52bYAkPCk?usp=sharing
Industrial switch standard/identification needed - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: owiecc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2022, 09:47:33 am
content: I have an industrial machine that has a key operated switch. We lost the key. The company is super slow at supplying the replacement so I figured I will replace the key module with a three-position selector switch. There is plenty of latching selector switches:RS searchbut they all are just the part I touch, e.g.Schneider XB4BD33. As I understand, I need also the base for it. The base should mate with the contact switches, see the attached picture (Schmersal RF10).I don't know the industrial standards. I assume there is a system that works together. Can you point me at what I should buy to make this happen? The selector switch is to be mounted in a 22mm hole.

author: H.O
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2022, 06:06:59 am
content: There might be exception but in general you won't fit a selector or button or whatever from one manufacturer to a body from another manufacturer (or even to another series from the same manufacturer). IME, the only "standard" about these type of switches is the 22.5mm mounting hole.You need to buy the selector, the base and one or more contact blocks/switches, all of the same series from the same manufacturer - unless you KNOW or they STATE that they are compatible with your Schmersal RF10 series.
Battery Spot Welders - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: philwong5176
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 08, 2022, 07:50:36 pm
content: Hello:I would like to get one of these to rebuilt my laptops battery packs, and would like suggestions from current owners as to which models to get or avoid. Thanks.

author: SHTechnics
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 15, 2022, 08:25:05 pm
content: I have this one:https://www.banggood.com/1S-Mini-Spot-Welder-Welding-Machine-DIY-18650-Lithium-Battery-Nickel-Belt-Spot-Welding-Portable-Household-Fiber-Welding-Machine-p-1674111.html?cur_warehouse=CN&ID=6269752&rmmds=CategoryToolsPopWorks fine and quick. The power is also changeable and it has an automatic function. The maximum welding thickness is 0.1-0.12mm and perfect for battery packs.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2022, 07:39:43 am
content: Member tatus1969 makes a beauty called kWeld:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/guesses-on-what-i-am-attempting-here/

author: emece67
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2022, 09:22:13 am
content: .

author: BradC
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2022, 01:07:21 pm
content: I have a Mk1 version of this :https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/mini-spot-welder-from-aliexpress/With the suggested fixes in place, and hooked up to a pair of Vision 6FM55 batteries in parallel it does 0.15 nickel strip pretty reliably.For the one or two packs a year I rebuild it's adequate. I want a kweld, but it's going to take me a while to get that one past the war office.

author: NiHaoMike
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2022, 02:33:17 pm
content: Rather than deal with the difficulties of switching low voltage at a very high current, why not generate higher voltage AC at a lower current and then convert it to low voltage at high current with a transformer? The transformer can be quite small at high frequencies and by reducing the power, it can work in continuous mode as a soldering gun.

author: jonpaul
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2022, 12:06:29 pm
content: HV charge cap, a few joules per shot?Very simple?j

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2022, 01:23:01 pm
content: Quote from: NiHaoMike on February 21, 2022, 02:33:17 pmSpot welders used for car manufacturing work that way. But these don't use AC. They just send a pulse into the transformer (which could be derived directly from rectified mains by using a thyristor to let part of a cycle through). All in all pretty low tech.
One of my ESD leads disintegrated. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: FrankE
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2022, 08:47:53 am
content: I went to vacuum my PC and the curly cord of my ESD field service kit just crumbled (after a long period of not being used).I suspected hydrolysis because it disintegrated in the manner that lightweight shoe soles do.The RS site confirmed the insulation is indeed polyurethane (PU).I'm in no great hurry to replace it as I don't use it often but the others on RS, Farnell and Desco all seem to be PU too.Was there any good reason to be PU, eg the ESD ISO standards or PU's place on the triboelectric series?Are there more robust cords with better insulation material suited to this damp mossy island. I'm surprised the atmosphere is ever dry enough for an electric charge to build up (to paraphrase Stanhope).The mains plug is broken too at the plastic L and N pins.

author: SHTechnics
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2022, 08:06:03 pm
content: Maybe you could use a silicone rubber cable instead of PU?
Do high capacitor power devices need SOFT START module in the circuit? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: vinlove
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2022, 11:03:50 pm
content: Hi AllCame across this youtube video on the modification details with SOFT START within the IGBT DC Welder.Is it really necessary to implement this SOFT START module in the circuit? What would be the advantages for the mod. / upgrade?

author: bob91343
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2022, 11:20:24 pm
content: Soft start increases the lifetime of the components by reducing the stress at turning on.

author: BlackICE
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2022, 03:15:22 am
content: Also reduces the mains voltage drop from the surge.
KSGER - Source for mini iron cord 5pin Female Connector - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: scopeman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2022, 05:24:45 am
content: Hello,Can anyone point me to a source for the female 5 pin mini microphone type connector that is used for the KSGER soldering iron? I can find the ones for the Hakko on eBay all day long but these are the larger ones almost twice as large as the ones used on the KSGER.Thank you,SamW3OHM

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2022, 05:41:10 am
content: I'm not sire which one you are describing, but the typical connector that is used on KSGER stuff is called "aviation connector" on eBay and Ali. Search for that term and you will find all sorts of permutations.If it is not it, at least show a picture of what you are talking about.

author: scopeman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2022, 06:39:14 am
content: Thanks Alex,It is a GX12A-5PI found them here:https://www.ebay.com/itm/392321148341?hash=item5b5829a5b5:g:NCcAAOSwqx1dFGDBThe shell is 9mm in diameter as opposed to the 12mm diameter of the larger plug.Thanks again for pointing me in the right direction!SamW3OHM
ReWork Station: Bakon BK881 instruction manual needed. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Gods69
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 14, 2022, 07:53:33 am
content: Hi,I need the english instruction manual for the ReWork Station: Bakon BK881. I just buy one but got dutch manual.( It's the "ToAuto DS882" model but look the same as the Bakon unit).Thank You.

author: zhir
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2022, 09:13:47 am
content: Here is the user manual (attached below). To clarify, there seem to be 2 versions of this model. The worst one is known to be "version 2" although the user manual is valid for all versions.I received that same station yesterday, and I was lucky that it was the original "version 1" variant.Yes, I know this kit is considered near-junk (compared to Hakko), but I got an interesting Amazn deal for it. This model is also known to use proprietary "Bakon 600" tips, so I picked a generous pack of 10 tips for it at the same time.So far it does work, and I must say it looks beautifullysmallerin person than in the pictures.It makes you want to use it just by looking at it.I never had a heat gun before. This is more powerful than I could possibly imagine! I almost burned my finger by touching the underside of the PCB, even after the heatgun was already powered down on its stand.Compared to my old trusted TS80P, this iron heats up a bit slower, and cools down much more slowly.Both the soldering iron tip and the hotgun tip are grounded.The on-screen user interface is OK, but I wish there was an open-source improved alternative firmware for it, to make it more intuitive with more thoughtfulness/ergonomy.I will report here whatever I notice about this affordable station.
Weller WX2 or WX2020 connector type - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ha_embedded
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 24, 2021, 07:21:03 pm
content: Does anyone know the 12-Pin connector type used in the Weller soldering stations like WX2, 2020 or 1010?Today one of the pins of the WXP120 soldering iron broke and it got stuck in the stations plug. I made several attempts to remove it but it seems hopeless. So what are my options? Asking Weller they would recommend a complete spare part board or an in-house repair. On top of that a new cable or iron. Think I would end up with spending couple of hundred bucks.I found spare cables with the molded connector on the iron side but nothing about the PCB connector. Any idea?

author: ha_embedded
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2022, 06:35:06 pm
content: Just a quick follow up just in case someone is ever in the same situation. There is no possibility to get this connector separately, it is proprietary Weller. But thanks to some hints in another Forum this connector can be easily separated by removing the outer frame. Each pin can be desoldered separately. I was able to remove the broken pin. Also the spring contacts can be adjusted, some people report contact problems over time.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2022, 07:13:18 pm
content: Quote from: ha_embedded on November 24, 2021, 07:21:03 pmThis page has a 3D model of it for DIYing:https://www.mikrocontroller.net/topic/367344
X-Tronic 4010-PRO-X Soldering station - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: oxoocoffee
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 02, 2022, 05:37:27 pm
content: Hello,Any of you have this unit and purchased an additional or replacement soldering gut itself?I like to have spare but and perhaps someone found on with shorter heating element?

author: Wallace Gasiewicz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2022, 02:15:05 pm
content: I have ordered replacement parts from X tronichttps://www.xtronicusa.comI have not found the unit to be durable, heaters burn out. We no longer use it at the shop.
Hot plate deal - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: damanloox
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 15, 2022, 11:28:18 am
content: For people in Europe - BG are currently running a deal on 046C hot plate and it's 50 Euro delivered from EU. They are really well built and for 50 Euro they are a steal...https://www.banggood.com/200x200mm-946C-110-220V-850W-Hot-Plate-Preheat-Preheating-Desoldering-Station-for-PCB-SMD-Heating-p-1348275.html?cur_warehouse=CZ&ID=523699These guys here do a teardown/review (and suggest one or two small mods but again - even without any mods it's a steal)https://youtu.be/9nvtXv2WcpY

author: SHTechnics
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 15, 2022, 08:03:53 pm
content: I've got one and indeed good value for the money (paid 70€ I think). Warms quickly, 'almost' evenly and stable. Some calibration is needed and the heating elements are replaceable. One important point though: check the ground wires and connection points. Some are not touching the metal but the paint.
Demented price of the day: Metcal AC-TCASE - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DC1MC
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2022, 12:55:51 pm
content: Is the world getting fully crazy, around 200EUR for this POS ?!?!

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2022, 02:25:00 pm
content: So don’t buy it. No need to whine.

author: ygi
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2022, 03:47:24 pm
content: At that price, I expect them to include a protective case for the protective case...

author: DC1MC
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2022, 04:32:43 pm
content: The strange thing is I've got one with some used tips and I was thinking to get more for the rarely used special tips for SMD.Is a simple thin metal box, like the ones for some pencils from long ago, but with some spacers. When I got the first google result, I thought that there is a store that put some kind of unrealistic price to keep the search engines "hot" for that article.But no, the bloody thing indeed costs around 200EUR, like more than all my Metcal tips together.I was wondering what I was missing, maybe they come originally filled up with an assortment of tips, but no, is just a stamped metal shell, that should not cost more 2EUR, even produced wit the highest standards of engineering (which is not). It doesn't even have some catchy logo or some visual or functional elements that are worth a tenth of the price.So something is really screwed up

author: SilverSolder
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2022, 09:53:34 pm
content: Quote from: DC1MC on February 06, 2022, 12:55:51 pmIf buyers keep paying stupid prices, sellers keep raising them. It is really dumb buyers that are the cause inflation, not the sellers!

author: SteveyG
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 09, 2022, 08:52:33 am
content: Quote from: DC1MC on February 06, 2022, 12:55:51 pmWow, I used to have a couple of these. Not sure why the price has been bumped up so much, they used to be £40
BPM Microsystems 1610 thoughts? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: matthuszagh
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2022, 07:08:49 pm
content: I’m thinking about purchasing a BPM Microsystems 1610 programmer. Any thoughts on this unit? This would mostly be used for reading and programming devices from vintage gear though I’d use it on modern stuff too. The other device I’m interested in is the data io unisite, though this is a bit harder to track down. One thing I like about the unisite is that you don’t need to run windows to use it.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2022, 11:35:13 pm
content: Specifically what stuff are you trying to program?
Lefavor T12 soldering station - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: xfd1001
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 05, 2022, 08:06:32 pm
content: Hello,Some time ago I bought the Lefavor T12 soldering station and wanted to share some pictures of the inside since they didn't seem to be floating online yet.According to the labeling of the build-in power supply it is 75W. The station seems alright for the price I paid.The biggest downside is that it has some unknown / unbranded IC, so custom firmware is unlikely to appear and it has the usual grounding issues of the case & handpiece.

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2022, 09:13:19 pm
content: Have you done any probing of the G, R, T, V pins to see if, for instance, it's a serial port?

author: xfd1001
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 05, 2022, 10:21:06 pm
content: Haven't done any probing yet but based on the connected pins I guess it's probably an STC or STC clone, not very interesting.