hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Looking for a heating plate for reballing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: soFPG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2020, 07:11:57 pm
content: Hello everyone,I am looking for a heating plate which is able to get to around 300°C (ideally 230V connector). It should have a precise controller where I can set the temperature.Main purpose is heating up PCBs or ICs for reballing.Are these cheap chinese ones fine:https://www.aliexpress.com/item/4000086334114.html?

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 10, 2020, 09:31:19 am
content: Even though the temperature controller supports it, these are not really suitable at such high temperatures. I believe they are mainly intended for pre-heating and glass adhesive removal - so typically something in the range of 80-120°C. You will get a lot of smoke the first few times you use it above 200°C (speaking from experience), and who knows how long it will last after that...The temperature control is also not at all precise! It will also vary quite a bit across the heating plate surface - probably less so on the 100x100mm plate vs mine with a 200x200m plate (946D).
ESD-safe 3D-print filament - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: lasses
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2020, 01:32:23 pm
content: Hi all, quick question. If I were to design some custom component trays for my SMT460 PnP, similar to JEDEC trays but smaller, for 3D print. Which ESD-safe filament type would be preferable, or rather which types should I avoid? Assuming the people printing the trays are able to handle all types of materials; ABS, PETG, PLA, WTF and whathaveyou... Thanks in advance.

author: Chad.Wagner
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2020, 05:46:20 pm
content: This is a great question. I have made some 3D printer carrier boards and would reprint them if some material is better for antistatic.

author: lasses
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2020, 09:03:46 pm
content: Chad. There's a whole lot to choose from here:https://www.3dxtech.com/esd-safe-filament/
Need some PC board switches - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 05, 2020, 05:24:12 pm
content: Hello, all,I need to get production quantities of some PC board pushbutton switches.Here's a link :https://es.aliexpress.com/item/32825221825.htmlThese are LED lighted PCB mount pushbutton switches made by OMTEN, part # TSL12121. I've had no luck finding a distributor that carries Omten.Then, I need a PCB mount alternate-action switch for 1 A, 12 V, similar to this Adafruit part, but for direct PCB through-hole mounting :https://www.adafruit.com/product/3870Digi-Key has a hole in their parametric search, they have over 100K pushbutton switches, but there's no selection foralternate-action, push-push, push-on/push-off or anything like that. I contacted their sales support and they came up blank, too.Thanks in advance for any pointers anybody can give.Jon

author: Gribo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 05, 2020, 07:43:19 pm
content: Mouser lists an alternate by NKK:https://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/NKK-Switches/JB15LPE?qs=PIrTAbR%252BVfNCitg0S4rjtw%3D%3D

author: Gribo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 05, 2020, 07:53:16 pm
content: For the second one:https://www.digikey.com/products/en/switches/pushbutton-switches/199?k=Push+push+button&k=&pkeyword=Push+push+button&sv=0&pv66=119769&pv66=167609&pv66=201620&pv66=227204&pv66=266276&sf=0&FV=69%7C411897%2C-8%7C199%2C235%7C381663&quantity=&ColumnSort=0&page=1&pageSize=50

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 06, 2020, 02:16:13 am
content: Quote from: Gribo on June 05, 2020, 07:43:19 pmThanks, but this part is not pin-compatible with the one we are having trouble getting, and apparently needs a snap-on cap.Also, more expensive by a lot.But, thanks,Jon

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 06, 2020, 02:19:40 am
content: Quote from: Gribo on June 05, 2020, 07:53:16 pmSo, the magic search string is push-push-button ?That's one combination I didn't try. They list "switch function" as "on-off" so I had no idea that was an alternate action switch.Also, again, the price is about 10 X what we are looking for in volume.Thanks,Jon

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 06, 2020, 02:25:46 am
content: Did you try contacting Omten directly?https://www.made-in-china.com/showroom/omtenswitch/

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 06, 2020, 07:03:16 pm
content: Quote from: Kean on June 06, 2020, 02:25:46 amWow, thanks, I will try that! I did not find this contact page when I searched.Jon

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 06, 2020, 09:29:52 pm
content: No worries. Sometimes my Google-fu is well tuned.They may also have the clicky flashlight style power button that you’re after.Let us know how you go. I’ve used these illuminated buttons bought from AliExpress but only for “toys”. I’m not sure they’re up to use in any products for the industries that I typically work with.
First product - Enclosure problems - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: @rt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 05:04:34 am
content: Hi,I’m a hobbyist looking to bang out my first product, which would be kit form, with option of pre-assembled PCA/PCB.Here’s one of probably thousands of examples of an aluminium extrusion, presumably with laster cut front & back panels:https://www.jaycar.com.au/composite-audio-video-to-4k-hdmi-upscaler-converter/p/AC1776Laser cutting is sorted, but where can one find a variety of the extrusions with the channels for screws?This is about the hardest part so far.I can’t find a project enclosure that is suitable, but even if there was, surely it’s a waste of money going that way.Cheers, Brek.

author: sleemanj
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 05:17:12 am
content: Dave did a video on this a year or two (or three) back.Anyway...https://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale?catId=0&initiative_id=SB_20200526211526&SearchText=aluminium+enclosure+extrusionHmm this one was 6 years ago but I don't think it's the one I was thinking of necessarily...

author: ANTALIFE
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 05:18:48 am
content: Am guessing you are from Aus, if so check out Dave's video

author: awallin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 05:20:04 am
content: what size PCB do you need to mount and how much front/back panel space do you need?https://www.hammfg.com/electronics/small-case/extruded

author: @rt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 05:26:18 am
content: I’m not asking about an enclosure, just the extrusion with channels for screws.If I used project cases, surely I’d be paying more to either toss the front & back panels,or paying for someone to load a new panel for every cut rather than do all panels out of a large sheet.The main thing determining the size of the front panel is a display and it’s cutout.The front panel is nothing other than a 128x64 mono LCD, and the PCB will be the same width.

author: sleemanj
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 06:24:21 am
content: As in video in my reply, utilising pcb fabs for making your face plates to turn extrusion into enclosure can be a good, panelisable, option..

author: @rt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 11:26:50 am
content: Quote from: sleemanj on May 27, 2020, 06:24:21 amI watched that at the time, but forgot about the extrusion (body) part.I wouldn’t get the same benefit of the PCB for the front panel, and it would be inconsistent I think.That part is only a bezel for me in appearance, and potentially holding two parts of the case together.A local place has done shapes for me in pre powder coated aluminium before, and cheap enough not to skimp on.That company in Dave’s video might be a good lead to chase up just those extruded parts on their own though.

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 06, 2020, 05:40:23 pm
content: Just for reference, Hammond sell their extrusions in one meter lengths.
Aluminium core PCB - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: pisoiu
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 01, 2020, 07:03:12 pm
content: Hi all,All my life I worked with FR4 PCBs but now I have to start some experiments with LED growing lamps for horticultural applications. And those need some aluminium core pcb, where my experience is null.I looked over some chinese manufacturers (pcbway mostly) and everything looks acceptable but I don't understand one thing. It is said on various places (youtube, forums, etc) that pcbs with anodized aluminium as base dissipates heat much better than non anodized aluminium. However, on the manufacturer site I cannot find a word about anodizing. It doesn't say anywhere if the substrate is anodized or not, the anodizing procedure is not available as option on the price calculator, etc.How do I get anodized core PCB? Is it some sort of special option available only from some manufacturers?Thanks.

author: ebclr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 01, 2020, 10:00:06 pm
content: The difference will be irrelevant, I don't think is worth the cost

author: GerardG
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 03, 2020, 01:44:26 pm
content: Hello Pisoiu,I have been working on Aluminium backed PCBs for some years. Never sold an anodized aluminium PCB.We had a manufacturer coat some boards that are used for 3D printers.I think it is better to look at the thermal conductivity of the dielectric material instead of the anodized options.Normal Chinese material has a value of 0.8 to 1.5W/mk thickness 100µ to 150µmAluminium has 250.0W/mkKeeping the dielectric layer as thin as possible will make the most difference.
Best practices for glue layer placement - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: 4flyer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2020, 08:47:48 pm
content: Hello,I am looking into adding a glue layer to my pcb to add mechanical relief for SMD parts. I had a failure of a surface mount electrolytic capacitor (fell off) and I am wanting to add a glue layer to the pcb to prevent this failure in the future.Is there a standard or best practices for adding glue into the layout? There is talk on the internet of adding "glue dots" to the board but I do not know what that look like when working in a CAD software (I am using Eagle). Do I just add a glue layer wherever the footprint of the component lies or do I use the adage of "a dot does alot"?Thanks! I would love an IPC standard or some documentation to follow!

author: phil from seattle
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2020, 10:07:27 pm
content: Eagle has 2 layers - tGlue and bGlue. I assume that's what you would use. You could directly put a polygon on the layer in question (t or b) or you could add to the library parts. Not sure there are manufacturers that do this.But I have to ask, what are you doing that is adding that much stress? It seems like solder should be a lot stronger than glue. Maybe modify the footprints to have larger pad areas.
IC Trays / Waffle Packs - Where to buy or alternatives? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: olkipukki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 22, 2020, 06:24:23 pm
content: Somebody has experience to buy these (subj) somewhere?Alternative options:- buy some very cheaps stuff in tray packaging and hope they will send as is- 3D printing with ESD coating

author: Rat_Patrol
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 22, 2020, 07:56:20 pm
content: You can buy ESD safe 3D printer filament. Isn't cheap, but it exists.Truth be told, I've been using regular 3D printer filament as jigs for electronics assembly for years, no issues yet.

author: olkipukki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 24, 2020, 08:58:10 pm
content: Quote from: Rat_Patrol on May 22, 2020, 07:56:20 pmESD-so called filament cost significat moreThought ESD permanent spray (or similar) might be better solution.Also can keep multi-colour trays as well rather than just a black.

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 24, 2020, 10:55:06 pm
content: We keep all ours in a box, when the box is full Farnell collect it, same with 7" reels, or sometimes someone else wants them. I try and make sure I keep an example or two of every one I encounter to cover off those times stuff comes in weird blister packs or little boxes, sooner or later pretty much everything turns up in a tray. There are some cheaper filaments out there that claim to be conductive rather then ESD, you could also use a CNC router and one of the ESD plastics out there.

author: Mangozac
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2020, 06:57:09 am
content: One other option I've come across is the Stripfeeder product (although I suspect the price could be excessive):http://parts.uic.com/product/multiple-strip-tape-tray-feeder/

author: forrestc
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 11:39:20 am
content: Quote from: olkipukki on May 22, 2020, 06:24:23 pmSome stuff comes in trays. Mostly TQFP's and similar.However, I also use the tray area in my machine for various larger components such as ethernet magnetics and similar. I 3d print the trays, and to make it ESD safe I spray it liberally with licron crystal. I have some jigs which are a couple/(few?) years old at this point and I measured one last week with a DMM and it's still conductive on the outside.
Draining ultrasonic cleaner - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jmw
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 15, 2020, 06:54:53 pm
content: I haven't seen one of these up close, so a random question: it looks like many benchtop units (all of small Crest models I've eyed) don't have a drain valve. Does the the tank lift out, or do you have to tip the whole unit over to empty it?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 15, 2020, 08:30:34 pm
content: Tip the whole unit.I see some pictures of empty tanks but I'm not sure how that would work as the ultrasonic transducer has to couple to the tank.Crest seems overpriced no?

author: jmw
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 15, 2020, 08:42:42 pm
content: Yeah, makes sense if the transducer has to be fused to the tank.Crest is not cheap for sure, and I have no urgent need, so was going to keep an eye on used/eBay. Do you have other brands you like?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 15, 2020, 09:36:17 pm
content: If its for business use, crest may be the right choice, if its for hobby use, for $240 you can get a no-name 10L 360W/300W heater/cleaner with drain valve.

author: Rat_Patrol
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2020, 08:02:04 pm
content: I have 2 units from SRAhttps://sra-solder.com/ultrasonic-cleanersThey are available in the USA on Amazon.I had one unit fail, and they handled it just fine. There have US based support, including warranty work. We did some diagnostics over the phone, and they sent me a part free of charge. Unfortunately, that wasn't the issues. I shipped it to them, they fixed it and shipped it back in a fair amount of time (I had sent it in over the Christmas/New Years holiday week). I use them all the time for light commercial work.The smaller unit I have does NOT have a drain valve, but the larger one does.
Every component getting picked up off center on CHMT48VA PnP Machine - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cverd
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 08:34:26 pm
content: Im just getting started with a new CHM-T48VA PnP machine. I have manually calibrated the coordinates for the MStack components on the reel and their respective position coordinates on my board. I have also coordinated the nozzle positioning with the up facing camera as well. Still, all of the components are getting picked up a bit low and off center (y-axis).Anybody else have this issue or a way to resolve it? Thanks!

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 01, 2020, 08:24:39 pm
content: Are all components shifted in the same way? Then it's probably a calibration error. For example a loose SMT resistor got stuck on the side of the PCB so the whole PCB was in the wrong place during calibration.If the errors are "random" over multiple feeders and PCB's the issue is "more complicated".Is there any pattern in the errors?How big are the errors?Such info helps narrowing down the cause.Any loose screws maybe? (in the head, or in the feeder assembly?

author: asmi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 01, 2020, 08:39:06 pm
content: If my memory serves me, on that machine you can preview part placement locations without actually placing parts, if so just do that and you'll see if these points are accurate. If so, it's probably a feeder issue.
New high speed pick and place machine with 8 working heads NeoDen K1830  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Tonny-NeoDen
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2020, 01:44:39 am
content: Hi All,Thank you for all of you support on NeoDen SMT Machines.Our company release a new pick and place model-NeoDen K1830,which is suitable to do production work.This model equip 8 working heads,support both pneumatic and electric feeders,max component height is 18mm,use closed loop servo control system with feedbacks.Know more details, feel free contact to us.Best Regards,Tonny-NeoDen

author: Reckless
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2020, 08:12:29 am
content: Does it do automatic nozzle changes?

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2020, 09:35:58 am
content: I don't see one in the video or the stills or the text, do you?However the blurb does seem to suggest they have taken out some of the tedious setup steps with setting up pick and place heights, 66 lanes still sucks.

author: Styno
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2020, 01:17:16 pm
content: Some observations from the YT video's. In one there seems to be a misalignment between the two nozzles used to place a grid of 0201's. In another video where the circle of footprints is populated even some of the 0603 and 0805 resistors have a pretty big placement shift, oddly these are the 'simple' ones at 90/270 degrees. I can't check the placement accuracy of the smaller sizes because of the low quality video resolution.I would expect a sales video to show a well calibrated machine, and, combined with the odd placement shift, this does not give me a lot confidence in QC and the software.Edit: the flock of 0805 and 0603 resistors laying around in the machine made me smile somewhat.

author: GerardG
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2020, 01:35:40 pm
content: @recklessFor now there is no automatic nozzle changer.
Jabe UD-1200 soldering station  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mp3
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2020, 09:58:27 pm
content: I got mine earlier today and have been messing around with it. Anyone else have one? I am trying to find out what JBC brand tips might work in it. It’s a shame they don’t supply a standard conical tip, but I like the knife tip.The station seems to be set insanely hot out of the box. By the recommendation of some YouTube videos on it, I started it up without a tip in, knocked the wattage down to 90, set a max temp of 750 and shut off the beep. I built a small TH board with the knife tip and it went very well. Though I ended up settling on about 650 degrees halfway thru as it was seeming a little too hot at 700.Nice little station, should be fun to mess with it more. Seems really nice for start-and-stop projects. Anyway just curious if anyone else here has one.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2020, 08:27:31 pm
content: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/jabe-ud-1200-soldering-station-nice-jbc-clone/From what I've read it works with C245 standard tips, wont work with the smaller tips or with the tweezers. Clone tips are ~$10 ea.Conical tip is close to useless for newbies and a hated inclusion as a stock tip with most stations, imo.
Stencil Printer Bottom Dweller - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2020, 08:51:36 pm
content: Not to hijack Simon's thread, does anyone have experience with this type of stencil printer?

author: urosg
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 09, 2020, 05:33:40 pm
content: Personally I have the ZB3040 model.What is your concern?

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2020, 06:00:30 pm
content: Yours looks like a nicely made unit. I was concerned how well the low-end ($60) units were made and worked with unframed stencils (mine is laser cut SS).I went ahead and designed my own based on an aluminum fixture plate with 1/4-20 threaded holes, 0.5" on center (like the bed on yours). The stencil will be positioned with ground shoulder bolts as rails. The PCB will be held with pieces of aluminum plate and a combination of hat washers and cam screws to tighten. Except for the shoulder bolts, other hardware is nylon.The fixture plate should be here on Wednesday or Thursday. Will post pictures if it works. Biggest cost ($48) is the fixture plate (a pita to make without CNC). The other stuff I have on hand or can make. If it doesn't work, I can always find a use for a nice "sacrificial" fixture plate.
PnP Machine TVM802 - How to calibrate camera and nozzles - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: webgiorgio
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2020, 05:38:14 pm
content: Hello,I am trying to use this Chinese pick and place machine.The problem is that with bottom vision the part isn't placed well. See attached image.It seems to me that the problem is the offset of the bottom camera. How should I calibrate it?To my understanding, the head coordinate system origin is the center of the top camera. From there, I need to figure out the offset of the two nozzles from the top camera, and the position of the bottom camera with respect to the table coordinate system. The zero of the table coordinate system is the bottom left corner of the pcb.The manufacture documentation isn't telling how to do this calibrations, and the official support (via whatsapp) isn't of much help. You see in the attached images which number I can change.thanks(I wish it could run with openPnP!)
Name of this pin connector? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Sparwa
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 10, 2020, 09:41:07 pm
content: Hi there EEV!(Pretty new to this, bear with me...)Actually my first post here, I'm repairing a synth, and am looking to replace this certain part, since it has signs of corrosion caused by leaky batteries from an old board which is a very common problem in these keyboards.I have posted the pictures here below. It is a 10-pin male connector, 2.54 Pitch, that is soldered through the holes on the PCB and then sort of bends back into a larger hole, so the pins are pointing the same direction as the soldered ones. Please see my pictures.I wonder if anyone know the name for this type of "U-shaped" connector, I've tried googling for quite a while now and can't seem to find anything that looks similar. If this connector type can't be found anywhere, I might just go with a regular pin header, but I believe that the current one is most efficient in the cramped space inside the synth chassis.View from underView from AboveThanks a lot!

author: Mp3
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2020, 08:47:39 am
content: Hi,I made a post looking for the exact same connector type as you some time last year for a Kawai synth. Unfortunately I could not find the post in my posting history....I never found out, but i did end up going with stackable pin headers to create a makeshift adapter that fit on. However a lot of these type of connectors are a lot shallower than yours seems to be, so using stackablesshould(might) work out fine for you.BTW which synth is this?

author: Sparwa
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 04, 2020, 10:25:35 pm
content: Thanks for reply. It's a KORG Polysix that I need to get doneReally seems to be really hard getting hold of this part, or I'm just not searching good enough. So you mean just dismissing the hole thing and just installing the headers upright on the side in the first picture?Best,A

author: Pseudobyte
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2020, 07:05:18 pm
content: It looks very similar to the NH bottom entry JST connector. The big difference being that the one shown in your photo is shrouded.http://www.jst-mfg.com/product/pdf/eng/eNH.pdf

author: Mp3
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2020, 11:03:34 pm
content: Quote from: Pseudobyte on May 05, 2020, 07:05:18 pmWell damn!!!Can confirm that's the exact one.
PCB supplier for quick HDI boards - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dav888
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 16, 2020, 03:36:21 pm
content: Hi,Any leads on suppliers that can do HDI boards in say less than 5-7 week days?I mainly need 4L, with uVia from L1->L2, so fairly low complexity./dav

author: Nauris
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 16, 2020, 06:37:42 pm
content: Have you asked Aspocomp? They advertise 3 days for 1+nb+1 HDI board plus same day delivery to Stockholm. I think they may work on weekends too?

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 16, 2020, 07:31:19 pm
content: Würth is high quality, fast, has online calculator, and it is expensive.

author: dav888
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2020, 10:43:17 pm
content: most I've talked to are in the region of 10wd'swurth, yes, min fee seems to be 5-6000euro regardlessstill 8-10wd

author: Pseudobyte
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2020, 09:04:23 pm
content: You can always go US but you will pay for it. The boards will likely look fantastic though.https://www.summit-pcb.com/https://www.sfcircuits.com/https://www.cirexx.com/https://www.prototron.com/https://www.ttmtech.com/Default.aspx**cirexx is probably your best bet for SPEED**
How to write good initial requirements and final specification for manufacturer? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: AloyseTech
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2020, 01:02:58 pm
content: Hi,I'm an embedded system engineer focusing on both hardware and firmware. I work in a very small startup so sometimes we are missing some industry good practices. We do write requirements and specifications, but in my opinion their are not always professional or good quality ones. Usually we use the V-model and are in charge of the first branch (from requirements gathering and concept to the final specification). Sometimes we do the whole things (implementation, test etc...). I find that the first stage is the most important one to ensure we do not deviate from the real goals. I would like to take good habits and make better quality documents.I have to write two kind of documents : the initial requirements for designing a new product, and the manufacturing specification (the one I send the manufacturer with the gerber files, BOM and so on).Is there any good methods available to do this? I currently have a small checklist which is my basis for the initial requirements : what is the main function? what are the use cases? what are the constrains (in term of energy, communication, precision, battery-life, connectors, material, cost and so on? Maybe you guys have some templates or good tips?Dave often talk how he was writing a bunch of these documents but I don't recall any deep dive into one... It might help others to make a video about this
JLCPCB:  buy just parts, no pcb ?? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: frogblender
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 02:41:42 am
content: jlcpcb's SMT library offers parts which are head-scratchingly cheap. Example:STM32F405 RGT6: jlc sells this part for LESS than half (HALF - bloody HALF) the price compared to north american distributors (digi,newark,mouser,avnet,future,arrow).Has anyone bought parts only (no pcb) from jlcpcb ?? I emailed them, but alas, radio silence.

author: greenpossum
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 02:44:24 am
content: You could buy the parts from LCSC which is a stockist and sister company of JLCPCB. There are minimum quantity limits and shipping charges of course.

author: frogblender
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 03:35:09 am
content: Ah... LCSC. Beauty. OK, so I just placed an order.... we'll see how it goes.

author: MarkR42
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 04:30:34 pm
content: I think LCSC are used by many members of this forum. Also Dave's review of the 1 cent voltage regulator (eevblog 1147) the parts came from lcsc.I certainly bought quite a few orders from there, they're insanely good value especially passives etc.Also some of the Asian / Chinese parts are really good, even if their datasheets are sometimes a bit difficult to understand.

author: asmi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 12:53:46 am
content: I use it for passives and similar jellybean stuff like LED. They are super cheap, often an order of magnitude cheaper than Digikey et. al. I've already created a thread here with specific examples, when the exact same part (same manufacturer, same part number down to the last letter) is many times more expensive at Digikey than at LCSC.

author: JLCPCB Official
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2020, 04:22:15 am
content: LCSC offers us parts for our SMT service, only parts consideration, you can buy online fromhttps://lcsc.com/. Thank you!
Nozzles for 0603 to 1206 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mangozac
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 26, 2020, 11:51:28 am
content: I'm further assessing my potential pick and place machine nozzle requirements and have a question. We use 0603, 0805 and 1206 chip parts and it would be preferable if the same nozzle can be used for all three.The Juki nozzle catalogue recommends the 503 nozzle (ID 0.6mm) for 0603, 0805 and SOT23 parts. It recommends the 504 nozzle (ID 1.0mm) for 1206 but in the BOMs I have investigated that's the only part it would be required for.The machine I'm looking at does not move at a particularly high speed, so I suspect that I might be able to get away with just using the 503 nozzles for all of the chip components. Can anybody comment further on this?

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 26, 2020, 04:29:50 pm
content: On Essemtec, Nozzle PC-S02 OD1.2/ID 0.7 mm covers 0603, 0805, 1206, SOT, the next nozzle down covers 0201-0603. The reality is you should use the biggest nozzle you can get away with but if you are running a machine with no toolchanger I don't see why the 0.6mm 503 wouldn't work perfectly OK with 1206 or even 1210 if the vacuum is decent and the component fairly light.

author: Mangozac
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 26, 2020, 10:29:04 pm
content: Awesome, that's great to hear. Thanks mate!
Membrane Switch / Graphic Overlay Prototypes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: randyyork
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 02, 2019, 02:46:30 am
content: Has anyone had any experience with listings on Alibaba for membrane switches or graphic overlays in low quantities? Things like having a clear window for a display and some buttons with a single color silkscreen. Nothing fancy but for one-off, semi-permanent prototypes.A quick Google didn't turn up much but there seems to be a new "express" service, like JLCPCB / PCBWay / etc, for these overlays. "jrpanel" it is called, but no reviews or mention anywhere on the forums. If anyone has any experience, would be grateful. Prices look low enough to gamble... But the feedback / sample images pages look almost like stock images. Thought I'd ask first.Thanks.

author: BIN.JRPANEL
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 27, 2019, 02:59:30 am
content: Quote from: randyyork on December 02, 2019, 02:46:30 amI check your questions, and we maybe your required fab that offers express service for Membrane switches & Graphic overlay. it is ok to quote directly in the online quote page.May I ask if your products is like attached?

author: eb4fbz
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2019, 09:24:43 pm
content: I have usedhttp://www.elecflex.com/a couple of times.

author: SMdude
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 28, 2019, 10:35:58 pm
content: What software is used to make the layout for a membrane switch panel?

author: BIN.JRPANEL
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 30, 2019, 02:00:18 am
content: @SMdudeFor the files, you can use following files:CorelDRAW(.cdr)AutoCAD (.dwg/.dxf)Adobe Illustrator(.ai/.eps)PDF(Export scale with 1:1）also for the colors, it is suggest that it is better to advise the PANTON numbers (Type C) for the colors or and also better directly send the sample if possible.As for the sample photoes or the Computer color ( CMYK, RGB), there usually has much difference with the real product.BINJRPanel

author: Koen
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2020, 11:42:04 am
content: I ordered simple panels from JRPanel five times or so. Always well done and shipped on time.

author: ANTALIFE
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2020, 10:25:11 pm
content: If you are based in AUS have a look athttps://www.permark.com.au/

author: graphicoverlaysz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 24, 2020, 07:41:30 am
content: Any inquiry about membrane switch or graphic overlay prototypes, welcome visit website:www.graphicoverlaysz.comfor details
Wanted - PCB manufacturers in Australia / NZ  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: NW27
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 05:36:00 am
content: Hi All,What PCB manufacturers are there in Australia / NZ?I used to have boards locally made by companies such as IMP or Entech but these all off load there manufacturing to China.Are there any actual PCB manufacturer's left in Australia?On a side note, if not buying locally, in the current climate, who would you recommend overseas?I had some boards from JLCPCB arrive a week ago after spending four weeks in the Hong Kong DHL depot. Five week turn around for a DHL delivery.Neil.

author: xavier60
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 05:51:37 am
content: I used to get PCBs made by BEC close to 20 years ago before I went to Futurlec.BEC are still alive and looks like they still prefer the customer to panelise their designs.https://becman.com//index.php?page=prototype

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 11:01:49 am
content: BEC have a sales office in Australia, manufacturing in China.We, Iconic PCB manufacture locally North Lakes , northern si\uburb of Brisbane, at prototype leve;.Look to Lintek in Queanbeyan ( outskirts of ACT) for volume production.

author: xavier60
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 11:36:52 am
content: Quote from: IconicPCB on April 29, 2020, 11:01:49 amI can't connect to the website. Is the quoting and ordering easy like with Futurlec?I have been doing high value jobs so cost isn't as much a concern for me now.I hate panelizing.

author: Weston
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 06:42:57 pm
content: I have had great experiences with PCBZone (located in NZ) for orders shipped to the USA. Great quality PCBs and they are even faster than most of the Chinese fabs. Pretty price competitive too.http://pcbzone.net/I have not used them before, but Circuit Labs is affiliated with PCBZone (same owner or fab?) and is for larger production runs than PCBZone.http://www.circuitlabs.co.nz/

author: NW27
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 10:02:14 pm
content: Same, I'm unable to connect to the IconicPCB website.Thanks All.

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 11:38:39 pm
content: Thank You for bringing it to my attentionWill check with the hosting company.

author: ANTALIFE
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 05:16:50 am
content: http://www.alfatron.com.au/newalf/Highly recommend Alfatron, who are Melbourne (Australia) basedI can tell you from experience (used to be one of the electronics/manufacturing engineers there) that they go above and beyond with PCBA's, plus they have a crazy fast solder jet printer (MY500) which makes prototyping a breeze as it's incredibly easy to adjust solder paste volumes (vs stencils). For example here is a 0.4mm pitched BGA with 0.29mm solder "dot"Otherwise here is a list I compiled a couple of years ago:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/manufacture/pcb-assembly-houses-in-aus/
ECO Software - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Apn15
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2020, 01:37:05 pm
content: I am looking for an ECO software solution. I am currently using paper with no numbering system. This has worked for the past few years, but we are rapidly outgrowing the process. I would like something that works like a support system. Production or QC could send an email and it would automatically assign a number and request to an ECR. Does something like this even exist or am I looking at a fully custom solution?

author: Gribo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2020, 10:46:54 pm
content: MES (Manufacturing Execution System) Exist from the usual suspects (Oracle, Siemens, Cadence and many others) They are usually a custom solutions, tied to internal processes and procedures.

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2020, 07:51:21 am
content: Big name MES systems come with big name prices, they can make it difficult to justify for some and many do seem to require more than just installing and setting up. There are also numerous open source and smaller packages but not all will include the features you are after as all the various types of business software MRP, CRM, MRP,MES, DMS &Accounting etc have pretty blurry lines between them and huge overlaps.Fundamentally replicating the record keeping of paper with the easy searching and tracking afforded by moving that data to a database is a task that you can probably write from scratch in .Net/PHP/Python pretty quickly (all easily accessible tools with good database support). However re-purposing a Ticket support system might also actually work, as might something from Alfresco's lineup (another one of those that has fundamental features you are then supposed to build your application on top of).Factorylogixhttps://www.aiscorp.com/en/is probably the most prominent tools for electronics manufacture, its features cover pretty much every process.

author: Mangozac
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 09, 2020, 01:34:34 am
content: We too built a custom PHP/MySQL system running on an internal server. Unfortunately it's very application specific (and frankly has some pretty ugly code!) so I can't share it, but as SMTech says, it's not particularly difficult.
uV PCB shelf life? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Davy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 18, 2020, 04:20:04 pm
content: I wonder if anyone knows the shelf life of uV pcb board..... some sites say 6 months and some 1 year, this is for FR4 board, I found a wee bit I had a few years suppose if it doesn't work I could still use it one way or the other.That question made me think, if there is a 'use by date'... it's gonna' be hard work stocking it in case it isn't sold and shouldn't carry a date stamp?From my other post you are going to tell me to laminate my own, I can see the advantage here.Dave

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 22, 2020, 01:02:50 am
content: Quote from: Davy on May 18, 2020, 04:20:04 pmAre you talking about a pre-laminated dry film resist blank board? I think if kept totally dark, these can last for decades. I don't see why the laminated board should have a shorter shelf life than the unlaminated film on a roll. In fact, once the film is laminated, the last thing likely to go wrong is the cyanoacrylate that adheres it to the board can't fail to stick anymore. So, the shelf life AFTER lamination might exceed the shelf life BEFORE lamination.Anyway, I've had some laminated blanks that I've kept for years and they exposed and developed just fine. I do buy rolls of film and laminate it myself.Jon

author: TareqBUQ
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 22, 2020, 03:32:39 am
content: Back in the university, I used some 10+ years old blanks from a British manufacturer that no longer exits, and they exposed and developped pretty much like new ones.If your boards are of good quality and stored properly, away from light, and in dry and moderate temperature, they would be fine for a long time.I don't know the chemical nature of the film, and if it changes over time, but from my experience the PCBs stay usable for a very long time.

author: Davy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 22, 2020, 09:00:03 am
content: I was meaning per-sensitized boards not dry film, just that I read one place said 6 months and the other 1 year shelf life for FR4 boards, that got me thinking why wasn't there a expiry date stamped on them.... suppose it will vary from brand to brand though.I do have a bit of FR4 donkey years old, only one way to find out I guess.Thanks, Dave

author: Kleinstein
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 22, 2020, 09:09:54 am
content: I had some older such boards laying around and they did not work well and some did not work at all. The first thing I found is that the older the PCBs the more UV exposure it takes. So even in the normal shelf like it may be a good idea to repeat an exposure test with the same material.It likely depends on the brand and also the temperature can make a difference too. Chances are they can last longer in the freezer. Some other brand board did work longer, but left random dots of copper.
Connector help! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mpbrock
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2020, 04:50:23 pm
content: HiI need to make up a cable to fit this bulkhead connector but I can’t for the life of me find the name of the connector (the one marked dispenser), does anyone recognise it so I can order it’s mating half? It’s 4x pin 20mm square and the bulkhead mounting holes look 16mm CentersThanks in advance

author: fcb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2020, 01:40:43 pm
content: Tajami? Amphenol PT series? Hirose RM12?Which country made the equipment?

author: fcb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2020, 01:45:04 pm
content: https://www.digikey.co.uk/products/en?keywords=RM12BRB-4PH

author: mpbrock
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2020, 10:33:18 am
content: Thanks fcb!

author: Gribo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2020, 11:00:10 pm
content: Also, Souriau and Tyco. There are some Chinese knock-off brands with compatible connectors and decent enough quality.
readymade/ready-to-buy cap dropper PCBs? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: src1989
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2020, 10:20:12 pm
content: you know those capacitive droppers you get with chinese/ebay led bulb kits, led string drivers etc?was looking to buy just the PCBs readymade (i usually end up replacing all the components onboard with ones from rapid electronics or farnell anyway) - instead of having to get my head around sprint layout (etc - i know it's not a bad idea but one thing at a time...) and sending a cloned board off for manufacture..nothing fancy; just spaces for a variety of dropper caps, discharge resistor, electrolytic, 1N4007s and a fusable resistor...any ideas?
Affordable and fast italian PCB manufacturer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Koen
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2020, 12:17:25 pm
content: Hello,I've been searching Google for european manufacturers for a week now and found this :https://www.mypcbshop.com/shop-en/price-configurator.htmlOnline quote, express options, thickness options, online chat, great price.Not sponsored, not an endorsement, no clue how it will turn out, I have just ordered now but I believe we're a few looking for an european option right now.

author: nuclearcat
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 17, 2020, 01:03:46 pm
content: I dont get why they charge VAT, while i am outside EU...

author: Koen
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2020, 01:09:29 pm
content: It might be removed further in the ordering process. I also had VAT and shipping quoted in the cart. Shipping became 0 EUR later and VAT was removed when I supplied my number.Try the online chat icon in the bottom right.

author: Bob Moore
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 18, 2020, 06:01:53 am
content: Do you have any updates on your order? I'd like to know more about this PCB maker, this is the first time I hear of them

author: beanflying
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2020, 06:57:23 am
content: So I was curious and peekedhttps://albapcb.com/contacts/Seems fairly likely some or maybe even all of their production is ChineseNo Facial features shown on the Promo youtube eitherhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjcNulTGAC0Fw2C3ArFffgwNot that any of this is an issue but if you were thinking local Italian manufactured maybe not so much. In Oz a lot of our PCB businesses have gone that way too but still do 'some' locally.

author: filssavi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2020, 07:10:07 am
content: Quote from: beanflying on March 18, 2020, 06:57:23 amThey have both local (near Venice) and oversea production, of course the standard volume and price considerations applyI had PCBs done with them once and it went very smooth, however the specs of the board were quite conservative so I am afraid I can’t speak much about the limits of their process

author: JPortici
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2020, 05:39:51 pm
content: I live almost as "near" from venice (hint)and i think one of our contractors sources PCBs from them.. Their logo isn't new to me and they are located not too far away from each other..I should take a pcb and check but these days i'm working from home and i only have prototypes, which are fabricated elsewhereIf it's them.. good quality. Unless we need absolute cheap in which case PCBs are manufactured in the chinese fab (quality comparable to JLC but better silkscreen), PCBs are produced in the italian facility. Much better quality, much nicer soldermask and silkscreen

author: Koen
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2020, 07:14:06 pm
content: Quote from: Bob Moore on March 18, 2020, 06:01:53 amYes, received on time. All was perfect except vias weren't covered and V-Cut were shallow.