hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Dongle/pendrive plastic cover - low pressure molding? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: up8051
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2017, 02:50:39 pm
content: I'm looking for information about technology of making such enclosures/cases (for example Yubico Key)Is is low pressure molding?I have one on the desk and the material is rather hard plastic not like material on cable plugs.Regards,up8051

author: kosine
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2017, 02:11:30 pm
content: Probably injection moulded in two-parts and clipped or ultrasonically welded together. If it's a hard plastic it's likely to be a styrene of some sort, ABS perhaps.If you have access to an injection moulding machine (which are not all that expensive secondhand), then it's possible to make an aluminium mould in a small workshop with a hobby CNC milling machine. You could produce about 50 two-part cases in an hour on a cheap mould, though you'd probably glue the halves together to keep it simple.Yesterday afternoon I helped a local student make some ABS keyring spanners. A hollow flash-drive case wouldn't be much more difficult. It's a weekend project once you know how to do it, and you can easily play around with different materials and colours etc.(There's a bit of sinking on the spanner surface - you'd normally add a blowing agent to the plastic granules to fix it, but this was a quick demo run, so I didn't bother.)
Injection molding of DO-35 package - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Ondre
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 20, 2017, 01:44:50 pm
content: Hi!Is it possible to injection mold over a diode with a glass body in a DO-35 package? Temperature of the molding material would be around 350°C. We have successfully molded over plastic body diodes in the past, but we have no experience with this type of package.CheersAndré

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2017, 02:29:06 pm
content: Short answer is no, unless you first use a flexible conformal coat to take care of the pressure when the epoxy contracts. Best to first do a flexible conformal coat so there is a flex interface on the board.
Best option for SMD practice kit with stencil - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bit.cyber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2017, 06:07:05 pm
content: So... I've just finished retrofitting a toaster oven to be an SMD reflow solder oven. Before I "dive off the deep end" I'd like to practice with some boards (read: I don't want to wreck the design it's intended for including all the components).Does anyone know of a source for practice kits with board, componentsandstencil? I've searched and can easily find SMD practice kits, but these don't come with a stencil, so obviously intended for hand soldering practice. There's the one from Beta Layout and I may go with this, but are there others?Thanks in advance.

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 19, 2017, 06:37:39 pm
content: Can you just try your current PCB design populated with the cheap components, and if that looks good then reflow it again with the more expensive ones? Using your own PCB will at least show any issues with thermal mass of certain components or PCB areas.Maybe also look for an IPC training board - but most of those will also be for hand soldering or rework. Try somewhere likehttp://www.practicalcomponents.com/evaluation-pcb-boards/and see if they can help. Stencils have historically been to expensive for inclusion in something like this, but polyimide/kapton ones may be good enough?You could also just get an open source PCB design from somewhere like github orhttps://www.oshpark.com/shared_projects/and order a matching stencil fromhttps://www.oshstencils.com/.
Ideal hot plate temperature for rework / preheating? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 01:47:20 am
content: I'm wondering what temperatures people prefer when using a hot plate to preheat a board for hot-air rework?

author: mcinque
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 12:21:50 pm
content: I heard 150°C but I guess the preheat time it can be influenced by the number of layers and the heat mass of the ground planes.

author: 2N3055
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 12:26:42 pm
content: 120C is good starting point . It will evaporate water, still low and easy on stress, and significantly lowering amount of heat to reflow.Test and slowly increase if needed.That works for me.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2017, 09:56:32 am
content: I think it would be 100° to 125°C.
Production of board-mounted modules - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: avishorp
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 01:29:48 pm
content: Do PCB mounted modules (such as ESP-12) undergo any special process that allows them to withstand the reflow process twice?

author: Berni
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 02:02:43 pm
content: Nope you just don't poke at any of the components during the reflow process and they stay in there place.

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2017, 03:36:40 am
content: Quote from: Berni on March 09, 2017, 02:02:43 pmMore often than not, a high temp solder is used as well.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 10:50:01 am
content: Why you want to do reflow process twice?

author: DTJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 11:15:23 am
content: Quote from: richardlawson1489 on March 15, 2017, 10:50:01 amThe modules are reflowed when manufactured and then reflowed when mounting to the final target or product PCB.Modules like this:http://www.esp8266.com/wiki/lib/exe/fetch.php?cache=&media=esp-12-e2015-4-8_182428.jpg

author: l0wside
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2017, 09:42:49 am
content: As the modules are usually populated only on one side and are typically placed on the top of the target PCB, the components see only two reflow cycles. Anything placed on the solder side of the target PCB sees the same number of cycles.JEDEC seems to specify three reflow cycles per part, see for examplehttp://www.nxp.com/documents/reflow_soldering/Reflow_Soldering_Profile.pdf

author: HHaase
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2017, 02:29:22 pm
content: You'd be surprised how many heat cycles a PCB can see, particularly a PCB with dual-sided SMT components plus thru-hole. It's routine to see a PCB that gets two reflow cycles plus another heat cycle over a wave.-Hans
So, does flux REALLY 'go stale' with time? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cvanc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 03:22:51 pm
content: Hi all-Used one of these cute little pen fluxers over the past few days. It was almost 3 years past its' expiration date, and to be honest it didn't seem to aid the soldering process at all.Does this stuff really go bad over time? Or could it be this particular one wasn't so great to begin with (it's RMA type so not the most aggressive)?Thanks.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 10:45:24 am
content: No. People are using flux and solder for minimum 8-10 years.

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 11:00:58 am
content: Good flux stored in undamaged sealed containers between freezing and normal room temperature will probably still be OK 30 years after purchace.Its solder paste that goes bad - the activators in the flux base + oxygen + humidity in various combinations attack the surface of the solder microparticles in the paste, until all you have is metal salts dross in a base of ex-flux.
Pick and Place machines TVM920 or Chmt530p4 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: chris2006
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2017, 11:28:29 am
content: Hi EveryoneI'm going to invest in a pick and place machine but I'm torn between the TVM920 and the chmt530p4The smallest components I will be using are 0603Is it best to go for a windows operating system or linux ?Which of the 2 has the best method of securing the pcbs to the base ?

author: imanhp
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 20, 2017, 07:14:52 pm
content: Hi,I was in the same situation as you. My company invested in the CHMT530P4.Dont ask me why. We will be going for a full OpenPNP conversion/hack.Its in a boat right now. Arrives in two weeks.I will do a full review with videos and put it up in the forums.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 10:01:50 am
content: I think you should invest on TVM920 as it would be a system with a SMT Mounter Resistor Surface Mount.
Feet SONY-TEK 314A - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: frantisek
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2017, 09:30:11 am
content: Greetings! It would be interested feet on SONY TEKTRONIX 314A-number 348-0425-00? These are products production. The approximate price of $ 5 per piece + postage.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 10:00:15 am
content: SONY TEKTRONIX 314A is a 10 MHz dual-trace CRT storage scope which can run on wall power 24VDC.
Quad PPM Pick and Place BARGAIN - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: rx8pilot
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 06, 2017, 06:34:28 pm
content: This is a GREAT deal if you can deal with the shipping.http://www.ebay.com/itm/PPM-Quad-IVC-MK2-SMT-Pick-and-Place-PPM-Upgrade-Feeder-and-Reel-Arms-Included-/122385497713?hash=item1c7ebe7e71:g:eEYAAOSwjDZYilQoI have the same machine with about 120 parts loaded at any given time.

author: mmagin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 06, 2017, 07:08:19 pm
content: I'll put it right next to the used wire bonder in my dream home lab.

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 06, 2017, 10:12:04 pm
content: That'd be perfect for me, and I'll have space for this with my move to larger premises later this month. But I think shipping to Australia might be a tad expensive.

author: rx8pilot
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2017, 12:28:37 am
content: Quote from: Kean on March 06, 2017, 10:12:04 pmIt is gravitationally enhanced for sure. Hard to imagine what it would cost to crate and ship to AU.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2017, 12:12:17 pm
content: Great. Thanks for sharing this information.

author: Timothy_luo
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 07:47:34 am
content: I am on the same route as you. I am looking for a Quad P&P for my prototype PCB. We have tons of small PCB (<1" square inch) of RF circuits.

author: rx8pilot
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 06:58:34 am
content: This one is down to about $7k....are you in the USA? (on mobile can't see your location)Sent from my horrible mobile....
pcb-prototyping and manufacturing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: paulcav
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 06, 2017, 11:04:37 pm
content: https://www.itead.cc/open-pcb/pcb-prototyping.htmlHere is a pcb-prototyping company that i found that i thought other people might be interested in having a look at. I'm sure there are many more of these types of service available perhaps we could start a list like what has been done for CAD software.

author: paulcav
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2017, 01:50:53 am
content: Some morehttp://www.allpcb.com/Some users reviewhttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/manufacture/first-boards-from-allpcb-com-postive-expereince/https://www.seeedstudio.com/fusion_pcb.htmledit: another one or twohttp://www.silvercircuits.com/http://pcbshopper.com/

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2017, 11:57:17 am
content: All reviews of allpcb are positive. I think they are cost effective.

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2017, 12:40:43 pm
content: itead would be a best option.

author: MarkF
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2017, 01:04:06 pm
content: I have had good luck with Silver Circuitshttp://www.silvercircuits.com

author: DTJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2017, 02:26:34 pm
content: Pcbcart works for me. Reliable, good quality and ok prices.Aussie$10 for a laser cut unmounted stainless paste stencil when ordered with boards.Bloody coupon codes always expire the week before I place an order!

author: rea5245
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2017, 05:37:06 pm
content: PCBShopper.comis a price comparison site for PCB manufacturing. You enter your specs and it shows you prices from over two dozen PCB manufacturers, including most of the ones mentioned in this thread so far. It also has Amazon-style reviews of many of the companies.Full disclosure: I run PCBShopper.- Bob

author: paulcav
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 08, 2017, 07:59:29 am
content: addedhttp://www.silvercircuits.com/to the list
seeedstudio + eagle, holes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: fabiodl
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2017, 06:47:16 am
content: Hello,I am using eagle 7.6.0 and run Seeedstudio's cam processor job available here:http://www.seeedstudio.com/document/rar/Seeed_Gerber_Generater_2-layer.zipwhen opening the generated files with gerbv, all layers appear as expected, except for the holes, which appear to use a different (bigger) scale.According to seeedstudio (seehttp://support.seeedstudio.com/knowledgebase/articles/422482-fusion-pcb-pcba-order-submission-guidelines)"Gerber file must be the RS-274x format. Drill file(pcb name.TXT) must be Excellon format."Do you know if it's an eagle version problem / a gebv bug or if I am doing something wrong in the process?

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 29, 2017, 08:27:15 am
content: This is actually GerbV not correctly detecting the number of decimal places in the Excellon file. So drill data is scaled up by a factor of 10.TO fix this in GerbV, right click your drill file in the layer list, choose "Edit file format", and then turn off "Autodetect" and increase digits from 4 to 5.

author: fabiodl
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2017, 08:54:44 am
content: Thank you, indeed 5 digits, inches did the trick!btw, great avatar pic
Non-conductive flux - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DavidDLC
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2017, 11:44:25 pm
content: Please give me recommendations on a good non-conductive flux that is easy to work with and easy to remove.Thanks.David DLC

author: oPossum
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2017, 12:03:06 am
content: Kester 186
User Manual for Manncorp (Autotronik) PaP: MC392, BA392, MC385, BA385 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bezakb
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 27, 2017, 06:59:44 pm
content: We are considering buying used Manncorp PaP machine and I was wondering if anyone has user manual or any other documentation for one of these machines. I talked to Manncorp and they will not help unless we 'register' the machine with them for 5,000 US which I would like to postpone if possible.ThanksBranislav

author: HHaase
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2017, 01:17:05 pm
content: I did find this manual available, not sure it covers the machine you're looking at....The file is a 50mb PDF manual so be aware it'll take a while to download.http://static.sparkfun.com/manuals/Autotronik_manual.pdfI can't stand companies that don't support used equipment. We've run across a few like that at work, and tend to steer away from them if possible. $5,000 is just extortion if you ask me.Had a company try to do the same thing with an ultrasonic stencil cleaner, $3,500 'registration' to have access to tech support. Not even $3,500 worth of parts in the thing.Just a couple water pumps in a stainless tank with an off the shelf ultrasonic generator. We declined.
Anyone ordered boards from firstpcb.com? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DavidJRobertson
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 06:38:21 pm
content: Shortly after ordering a batch of PCBs from one of the many cheap Chinese manufacturers I came acrosshttp://firstpcb.comwhich, for my boards at least, seems quite cheap. I haven't seen any reviews online. Anyone here ordered from them before?

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2017, 11:06:56 am
content: No. I never ordered, but marked that the prices are pretty low compared to others.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2017, 07:39:32 am
content: I don't have any personal experience with them but they have given a customer testimonial in site. The prices are comparatively low.
help with generating a pcb logo within eagle cad - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: hazzer
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2017, 11:20:48 am
content: Hello AllI'm in need of some assistance pls, I've started including a silk screen logo on my PCBs (using Eagle Cad import bmp).All looks good when I checked the top silk GTO in Gerbv, but the last 2 of my 3 orders have arrived without the logo.So I'm wondering if the "eagle import bmp" results in items too small for the manufacturers print process.QWhat is the optimum DPI for the silk screen printing process? might I be at the lower limit of height & width for a silk screen object?(for seeed I think this is 23mil x 4mil)I'm awaiting a reply from the manufacturer but was hoping some here could shed some light?RegardsHarry

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2017, 11:33:08 am
content: I would check with Seeed and check the ordering form very carefully. I had an order than was received without the bottom silkscreen. I had just assumed, and it was my fault for not ensuring it was explicitly specified.John

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 06:48:06 am
content: Here are 3 ways for generating pcb logo within eagle cad.https://medium.com/@jvanier/3-ways-to-add-your-logo-to-an-eagle-pcb-1a580dcdc444#.shhl5aa82

author: Jeroen3
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 07:09:00 am
content: The logo must use a pen with enough width otherwise it is optimized away.I've put the logo's in a lib in various sizes. I've hand drawn the logo to reduce the number of elements. If you import a bitmap you have a huge number of elements. Gerber creation becomes slow.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 21, 2017, 12:51:03 pm
content: Check out this video. You may get clear idea on generating pcb logo within eagle cad.

author: william-zzw
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 23, 2017, 08:42:07 am
content: hi HarryI can help you for design a "LOGO".
Food Safety Plastics - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: AGRAIL
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2017, 08:29:20 pm
content: Can anybody advice where I can order proper materials for food safety production ?I`m interested for plastics to have possibility to manufacture some spare parts for equipment .It is possible to use some plastic for 3D printer like Ultem 9085 for this purpose ?Can someone share some links for company that can provide all certificates to this kind of production ( better for Europe ) ?Thanks in advance .

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2017, 10:34:51 pm
content: http://usglobalimages.stratasys.com/Main/Files/FDM%20Test%20Reports/NSF%2051%20Official%20Listing_Stratasys%20FDM%20Materials.pdf?v=635860456976571942

author: babysitter
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2017, 02:06:58 am
content: This certificates are declared on the raw material, which you change by processing. Your feed line could give contamination, your heating might generate toxic by-products. A fact a lot of people ignore in the injection moulding area, valid for filament printing too.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2017, 06:30:58 am
content: May this would be helpful.http://www.plasticsintl.com/food_compliant_materials.html

author: AGRAIL
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2017, 09:21:28 pm
content: Thanks for link - I`ll check with supplier if they can provide material with at least some certificates .Maybe this will be enough ...if not -with QE
FirstPCB - has anyone here used them? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2017, 09:53:37 am
content: Hey, a banner popped up on me from AdSense advertising FirstPCB. On the first look they have better prices on 2L and even more so on 4L boards than other places I have used before.Has anyone here ever used them and can share any thoughts on PCB quality and customer service level?P.S.I am not affiliated with that company in any way.

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2017, 10:42:53 am
content: I think their prices are comparatively low than others.

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2017, 11:46:53 am
content: I can see that much. 10x10cm board is typically no less than $15 + S/H. They do it for $10 + S/H.I would try them, but O have no project as of now, that are low enought priority to risk some serious fuckups with an unknown company.

author: Koen
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2017, 02:30:44 pm
content: Google the address to see who's behind it.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2017, 02:13:10 pm
content: I don't have any personal experience with them, but the quality and especially price looks pretty good.
Question on Pick and Place Tolerance for 8-Pin SOIC and PLCC-2 Packages - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Potomac
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2017, 09:28:06 am
content: I designed 2 very small PCB and just got a few copies in the mail from the fab.One is a light emitter board and one is a light detector board. In Altium, I positioned the light emitter (in a PLCC-2 package) to align bang-on with the detector (8-pin SOIC).Starting to solder it by hand wasn't too much trouble, but it could use some improvement. They're both slightly askew, due to my human hands and eyes. (Note in the picture below that I need to reverse the direction of the LED tomorrow---my goof)I was wondering how much improvement I could expect if I mass assembled these at a pick-and-place fab? How accurate will the placements be? I've never had anything mass assembled. Would appreciate any comments!For reference, if anyone is interested, here are the two optical components I'm most interested in getting accurate placement for.http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/ams/TSL238D-TR/TSL238D-TRCT-ND/3095288https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/osram-opto-semiconductors-inc/LS-T676-R1S1-1-Z/475-2683-1-ND/1938850

author: Potomac
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2017, 09:51:10 am
content: I should note that it probably varies by machine. The higher end machines can do smaller parts with higher accuracy.Also, can anyone recommend a good online pick-and-place house that ships in USA? Is there an OshPark type company for pick-and-place? I found this one, Small Batch Assembly. Are there any others to consider?www.smallbatchassembly.com

author: Potomac
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2017, 03:12:46 am
content: anyone?

author: rs20
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2017, 03:20:42 am
content: Ever done reflow soldering using solder paste and a hot-air gun? If you have, then you'd know that surface tension of the molten solder pulls the components into place, meaning that even parts that are placed severely wonkily by human hands get pulled into perfect alignment -- especially if the solder paste is dispensed well (which it would be if a stencil was used to print it).In short, the placement accuracy of the pick+place machines are, I'd suggest,completely irrelevantto the accuracy of post-soldering positions of the components (you know, assuming that the initial accuracy wasn'tsopoor that the wrong pins are on the wrong pads, etc).In summary, the quality of your PCB design (oft-overlooked with the freaking enormous solder mask expansions I see often from hobbyists), PCB manufacturing accuracy (solder mask/copper alignment, etc), and stencil design (solder paste quantity is important) will be ofvastlymore relevance than the pick+place machine in use.

author: Potomac
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2017, 04:26:51 am
content: thanks! that's helpful.
The relationship between PCBWay and other company - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ansonbao
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2017, 01:51:07 pm
content: These days I check some posts talk about the relationship between PCBWay and other company. As PCBWay manager I feel very appreciate that so many engineers choose our service.In the new year we will work hard to offer better service.Here I make a statement on behalf of PCBWay about the question:Our factory has two production lines. One is for international line,with high quality standard which is for PCBWay only.Another one is for domestic production, with low quality standard.Many Chinese companies get boards from domestic line and sell to overseas.Any other platform who says we manufacture in the same factory with same quality are lying.If you have other questions please comment here.Thanks very much.(if I break the eevblog rule,please tell to me,administrator)

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2017, 02:02:36 pm
content: I really had good experience with PCBWay in my past. Happy with product quality and quote.

author: ansonbao
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2017, 02:51:30 pm
content: Quote from: richardlawson1489 on February 21, 2017, 02:02:36 pmThanks very much

author: dimbmw
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2017, 06:57:11 pm
content: Bad marketing to tell the world that there is also a low quality production line in the same factory.

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2017, 03:37:08 am
content: Anson.The owners of PCBway and AllPCB are the same.When i checked an invoice that was from Allpcb it shows that payment can be made toBeneficiaryHK WEIKU TECHNOLOGY COMPANY LIMITEDBank:The HongKong and Shanghai Banking Corporation LimitedThis is the same bank account details as what i would use to pay PCBwayThis story is not making any sense to me.

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2017, 03:44:16 am
content: I have also been assured by the good folks who represent allpcb.com that if you order boards from JCBPCB on the allpcb.com that the boards are manufactured on the same platform as the ones that PCBWAY are making.If this is true, then there is no difference..its odd that one parent company would set two marketing departments against each other..The real proof will be the pudding when boards arrive and we can judge quality for ourselves.

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2017, 07:14:15 pm
content: Well, in a not so suprizing move, my PCBway rep wrote me an email saying" We will match any price from any other pcb fab "These guys are goign to price bash them themselves??
Problem printing pcb for etching using KiCad. Not sure what the deal is. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MassDestruction
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2017, 10:01:17 pm
content: Hey GuysI just finished laying out the traces for my pcb in KiCad and I want to print out the pcb on transparency film and etch it my self, but I'm running into a problem. When I print out the pcb a couple of the smd mounted parts print out "hollow". Example below.However when I select the "No drill mark" in the Pads Drill Opt. They aren't hollow, but I loose my drill holes. Example below.So my question is how do I get this pcb to print properly so that my smd parts aren't hollow? Why does the drill property affect it anyway?Also another curious thing is that I select the option to print black and white, but some of the parts print in color any way. It's not a big deal for me, but I'd like to know why this is happening if anyone knows.

author: awallin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2017, 05:51:55 am
content: Most PCBs are produced from Gerber 'plot' - files for the copper 2D layout and Excellon/G-code-ish 'Drill' files that define the holes.Maybe try outputting Gerbers and drill-files from KiCad and printing on paper/film from another program that knows how to open Gerber+Drill and has better printer support than KiCad.

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2017, 06:02:34 am
content: Does the problem happen if you select small drill mark?Did you create those component modules yourself or are they from the stock libraries?

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 08, 2017, 07:49:05 am
content: How are you trying to print?Use the Plot option to a PDF file, and show us the options you have selected in the dialog.

author: MassDestruction
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2017, 11:40:14 am
content: Quote from: james_s on February 08, 2017, 06:02:34 amYes I tried small drill mark and I get almost the same result. The smd parts are still hollow but the drill holes are smaller.The component modules/footprints are a combination of mine and the stock ones. The stock ones are the ones that are having problems. The footprints that I made myself are fine.

author: MassDestruction
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2017, 12:00:18 pm
content: Quote from: EdoNork on February 08, 2017, 07:49:05 amI used the File->Print option. However, plotting to pdf and printing that out does seem to work! Everything is to scale too it seems! Thank you EdoNork!

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2017, 04:27:51 pm
content: That's odd, I've always used file> print when I home etch boards, I'm still on an older version though so maybe there's a recent bug.

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2017, 12:08:15 pm
content: I think small or big drill mark won't effect it. It gives the same output.
Shenzhen part number database - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: HSPalm
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 15, 2017, 02:15:18 pm
content: Hi,What do people do to find equivalent one-hung-low parts for low cost manufacturing in China? My experience is the manufacturer will only help me source the cheaper parts if quantity or total cost is high enough. Often they source the cheaper parts and try to make me pay the Digi-key prices. Especially for connectors there can be huge savings (and huger disappointments...).My methods so far are tedious but works (by works I mean that the part is accepted by Seeed automatic pricing when uploading BOM):- Find the digi-key part I need, search for it on aliexpress and see if your part is double listed along with an equivalent part.- Find the digi-key part I need, then google search for the "important" part of the mpn (for Si6963DQ that would be "6963") plus the package (TSSOP-8). In this case you find korean TSM6963SD- Search house-parts list of chinese assembly houses. Seeed studio has theOPL (Open Parts Library).Lists like OPL and sites like AliExpress are also very good for getting an idea of what parts are easy to source. Like for instance 12mm coin cell holder, OPL lists one BS-12-B3AA003, and by searching aliexpress for "CR1220 holder" you can clearly see they coincide (so don't go for the Keystone 3000, they don't stick and almost can't be found in China).What I wish for is a database or wiki-page to check for stuff like this, cross-referencing from both sides. Of course there isn't a "shenzen part number" for everything, but often they exist. More often you can have one "digikey" part for much cheaper if the Chinese source it locally, while the other "digikey" part costs the same because they can't get it locally.Do you know if anyone has done any work for a similar database or wikipage? Do you think it's a good idea?
Wholesale MicroSD needed - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2017, 12:24:58 pm
content: Hello,For a project I need a large amount of microSD card. The size is 1+GB, irrelevant. I would need some 500 pieces. If the seller provides programming (and formatting) that would be excellent. No industrial or SCL or other craziness, also the price limit is around "the price on amazon" because my brilliant boss will just order from there, and then bunch of engineers have to spend days programming and opening (!) the damn thing.Does anybody know who is a good European supplier for these requirements? Please no Aliexpress or Chinatek cards.Thank you!

author: krho
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2017, 07:03:07 pm
content: Can't find the link for the flash memory but there is some German company that makes duplicators. Some of them are also available on amazon. AFAIR 1to16 costs approximately 400€...

author: krho
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2017, 09:12:21 pm
content: Found it.http://www.memorymarket.com/bulk-wholesale.htmlThe project was cancelled so we didn't bought them so I cannot say anything for the quality and speed. But would be interested in your findings if you decide to follow through.

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2017, 10:37:36 am
content: Sorry to bump this, but does anyone know a European supplier?

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 13, 2017, 11:09:48 am
content: I buy them in packs of 50 through local IT distribution channels in Australia. I think it was via Ingram Micro, who are also in the EU. The margins aren't very high, so there isn't a lot to save on 50. You should be able to get slightly better pricing for 500, but that is still a reasonably low quantity. I just googled the part number and contacted some of the sites stocking them.I've stuck to Team Group cards as they seem to be less likely to be counterfeit compared to Sandisk or Kingston, although using a reliable distributor should reduce any risk of grey market parts. I've used 2GB Class 4 or 6 in the past, and now use 8GB Class 10. This is for custom dataloggers (msp430/STM32), and on some products running embedded Linux.The one time I needed a quantity of 500 for a production run, I specified the brand and part number, and left the sourcing and duplication to the Chinese factory handling the production. I saw they used a PC with a 32 port USB hub and 32 microSD to USB adapters, but not sure what software they used.
commercial PNP Vacuum systems - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ali_asadzadeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2017, 08:07:23 am
content: HiI was wondering what method or system do commercial PNP systems use for their vacuum system. I was wondering that they might use something from pneumatic systems for example companies like Festo and use an air compressor and a vacuum generator, but in that way the system is very noisy in terms of sound generation and I think by using them they wouldn't be able to achieve 180000 components per hour.Do you have any Idea what they are doing?

author: ali_asadzadeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 25, 2017, 12:32:50 pm
content: Does anybody have any idea?

author: HHaase
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2017, 02:43:31 am
content: The older Fuji CP-6's that I run have a pair of big vane style vacuum pumps in an external box. One for holding parts onto the nozzles and the other pump to drag away the carrier tape clippings. I'm told that some facilities have/had much larger central vacuum pumps that ran multiple machines. You are correct that they are very loud. The CP6's have a 20 spindle rotary turret head, and run about 20,000 cph.The Fuji IP3's and Universal Genesis machines I work on both use the compressed air supply running through venturi pumps to generate the vacuum.

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2017, 10:22:41 am
content: I don't know much about it but have read somewhere about Millisensor System. It may be the solution.

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2017, 11:28:59 am
content: My yamaha machines generate a vacumn from compressed air.. They palce abotu 14,000 parts/hour.

author: ali_asadzadeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2017, 02:40:42 pm
content: Thanks guys, do you have some pictures for the vacuum parts?

author: HHaase
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2017, 08:57:09 pm
content: Pulled some photos off the web, as these things are all buried deep inside the machines or inside enclosures. Not something I can get you a direct photo of.This is the style vacuum pump that our Fuji's run... it's about 75-100lbs for the whole assembly.But it also needs to pull vacuum through a 20 spindle turret system. Far more vacuum than any current production SMT machine I can think of.https://www.google.com/search?q=orion+vacuum+pump&espv=2&biw=1920&bih=950&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj99Y3RtIbSAhWj5YMKHbuiCAoQ_AUIBygC#imgrc=1YTm0FwwYpEM9M:The venturi vacuum generators are similar to this piece.Apply compressed air, and you get exhaust from the baffling and a vacuum from a side port.As they get bigger, the air requirements grow pretty fast.https://www.coleparmer.com/i/cole-parmer-venturi-vacuum-pump-0-5-cfm-28-0-hg/7816500?PubID=UX&persist=true&ip=no&gclid=COSZ3ou1htICFRC4wAodIuELOA

author: ali_asadzadeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2017, 05:53:51 am
content: Thanks HHaase for sharing this info.
Source for pre-packaged mounting kits? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: chicken
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 01:56:50 am
content: Does anyone know a source for pre-packaged mounting kits?I'm selling a Raspberry Pi add-on board on Tindie and I would like to include a mounting kit. 4 standoffs, screws and nuts, nicely held together in a small plastic bag. Something like this, which was included with a cheap breakout board from Banggood:All I found so far are distributors that charge US$2.50 or more per kit, but unfortunately nothing on AliExpress or Ebay. I'm sure there are Chinese vendors selling this for $0.50 or less @100.

author: DavidJRobertson
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2017, 10:20:58 pm
content: Probably cheapest to just buy all of the parts and pack them yourself...

author: elecman14
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 07, 2017, 04:39:37 pm
content: There are companies in the US that will take in the raw materials and do kit packing for you. If you look for a "3rd party sorting company" or "kit packing" they will probably be able to quote you a price.

author: chicken
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2017, 05:05:10 am
content: Thank you for your suggestions.I don't think that a kitting service would be worthwhile. I only need 100 or so. I guess I will have to spend the two hours and do it by myself then.

author: janekm
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 09, 2017, 05:25:34 am
content: Easy, pick one of the companies on Ali that sell the parts you need and ask them.
Ymaha CL feeder question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ar__systems
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 07:33:09 pm
content: does anybody know if 16mm tape feeder can be made to advance by 12 mm? Or do I need to buy feeders with different advance rate?thank you

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 07:40:53 pm
content: I can't speak specifically for the CL feeders because i only have 16mm FV feeders. on those you can set them up to run 4/8/12/16mm.I do know you need to be careful with 8mm feeders some of those only work on 4mm feeds and you sometimes need 2mm.Theres so many variatiuons and its not made easier with the clones that don't always follow the same design rules!

author: ar__systems
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 07:47:24 pm
content: Thanks. I'm aware of 2/4mm variants of the 8mm. (Was wondering why not always use 2mm and simply make them advance twice?)Looking through catalogs I don't see different versions of the 16mm feeders....

author: ar__systems
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 08:08:46 pm
content: Ok, just figured it out. The pneumatic cylinder can be mounted in several different ways to allow different feed rates. Can even do 16mm.

author: thommo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2017, 11:13:02 pm
content: Nice 'find' ar_systems!!!Thnx for the update - Pete

author: dtf
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2017, 02:47:20 am
content: Heh, that's pretty clever, take out the little tab and flip it over to switch between 16/12 and 8/4.Looks like this is true for 12mm as well which can do 4/8 or 8/12.24mm+ are a different design and the adjustment is more obvious.
Shielded Boxes Open Both Sides - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2017, 10:28:48 pm
content: Teko Enclosures makes shielded boxes that are open on both sides (http://www.tekoenclosures.com/en/products/family/RF). Attached is an clip from its page.I spent quite awhile today finding that vendor. Are there any others that have a good distribution network in the USA (e.g., available from DigiKey, Mouser, or Ebay)? The key for me is that it is open from both sides.John

author: SMdude
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2017, 08:35:54 am
content: I have been using rfsuperbat for a few years now and have always had great honest service from them. You can pay via paypal, shipping charges have always been very reasonable given the size and weight of my packages.http://stores.ebay.com.au/superbatrf?_trksid=p2047675.l2563Contact Crystal on: ebay(at)rfsupplier(dot)comCheers

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2017, 10:50:01 am
content: Thank you for the suggestion. Extruded aluminum offers what I need and was a close second to tin plated steel. Superbatrf has some nice options.It turns out that Teko Enclosures is a subsidiary of OKW Enclosures (https://www.okwenclosures.com/en), which has quite a presence in North America. The local distributor is in Pittsburgh (about 125 miles away), it sells direct, and has no minimum. Unfortunately, it is one of those places without a published price list. I will post an update when I hear back.Apparently the style I posted is made in Italy and imported by OKW/Teko. I found some EU prices that were attractive, but of course, international shipping for steel is expensive.Regards,John

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2017, 03:59:23 pm
content: UPDATEJust got a quote. Approximate price in small volume (1 to 4) each:271.16 $7 (smallest, 2"x2"x1")273.16 $11 (2"x4"x1")293.16 $15 (4.8"x2.7"x1")John

author: ThomasDK
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2017, 04:15:44 pm
content: The best priced shield cans I have found are these:https://translate.google.com/translate?sl=de&tl=en&js=y&prev=_t&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schubert-gehaeuse.de%2Fprod01.htm&edit-text=The site is in german, google translated for your convenience
Manncorp TK5000 Small Production Workcell - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Enea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2017, 10:58:58 pm
content: Hi guys,I am in the process to buy my first SMT line.Has anyone here worked with the Manncorp TK5000 Small Production Workcell line?Do you have any advice on something similar to this line in the 60K/70Kish USD? What alternative would you recommend?EU market tips are a welcome plus !!!Many thanks in advance to you allPS I am not interested in any chinese low budget/low cost machinery ... at least for the pick and place

author: RobK_NL
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2017, 09:17:38 am
content: Have you considered buying second hand? For what you are willing to spend, you can get some very good used machines.I can thoroughly recommend contacting FixTrade in The Netherlands (www.fixtrade.nl)
Plating / 'Growing Copper' on high resistance copper film board. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: CM800
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2017, 01:05:08 am
content: Hi All,I've been steadily collecting parts to make a vacuum deposition chamber. I want to plate copper onto glass, ceramic and experiment with a few things along those lines.Here is someone else's set up, a little similar to what I'm working to build.I was wondering if anyone knew any good ways of growing a thin film copper layer (on the orders of ohms per cm) to a thicker layer, e.g. 1oz, 2 oz, 3oz.

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2017, 01:21:53 am
content: Very cool!

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2017, 09:38:28 am
content: What is wrong with the old fashioned electroplating method, you can grow a nice thick film with it, and get it very smooth with the right amount of AC ripple on it as well.

author: CM800
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2017, 12:30:25 pm
content: Quote from: SeanB on January 11, 2017, 09:38:28 amI suppose that makes sense. For some reason I was focusing on the method used to grow tracks AFTER etching the traces out. That still would be good to know however...I want to try making some PCBs on exotic materials.(Ceramics, Glass, Plastic?)Could be interesting...

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 06:42:28 am
content: Nice Video. Thanks for sharing video and keep us updated. Some of the other exotic material may include FR-4, Rogers, Nelco, and Megtron.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 07:50:38 am
content: There's a PCB house in Australia that makes their PCBs that way -- they advertise much better tolerances than conventional (foil base) methods, especially for heavy platings.Tim

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 21, 2017, 05:42:15 am
content: You can do electroless copper plating to start, but to build up thicker layers seems to require electroplating.http://www.eurocircuits.com/Electroless-copper-deposition

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2017, 10:50:29 pm
content: T3sl4co1l,Yes I visited their shop many years ago ( late eighties early nineties ).They had a vacuum deposition process with an RF bottle whereby a plasma /gas combination would be used to etch the substrate and then copper vapour deposition would occur.Thin atomic layer of copper would then be pattern plated.Protection would then be removed and the remaining hitherto protected atomic thickness layer would be etched away with minimal removal of wanted pattern copper.Great outcomes.They are one of a couple of shops left alive after 2000 Asian money market crash and subsequent migration to Asia.