hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Robot forum? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Reckless
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2019, 10:18:58 pm
content: It doesn't seem like to many people are interested in Robots on this forum. Does anyone know of a good forum to find more information regarding robots/cobots/scara robots/etc? It seems like a lot of arduino compatible robots are coming to the market and I am trying to see if they are worth it.My dream artificial intelligence epson robot:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNxN-zZGUIQ&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR34_cc4KnHTecyHv_NXZsDONkdVtCRM1igUyHCb_G9lnPU1TTp5SXP7_1U&app=desktop

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 05, 2019, 12:22:52 pm
content: Robotics is a very wide field, and I think you're primarily interested in industrial automation applications?Maybe look on cnczone.com - ISTR there was some robotic topics and discussions there

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 05, 2019, 12:46:02 pm
content: Its just a case of dividing the problem down to chunks you can handle,I am probably biased coming from the background of control systems, but lets press onThe artificial intelligence is not what makes your dream robot move, instead it would be a basic model describing how to move between 2 points with the least motion required for the effected axis's. in almost every case this can be reduced to some combinations of intersection points of 2 circles, and some trigonometry, you write up these relationships, and apart from some bounding for travel limits you have yourself a motion model.Next you wrap that up in some control loops for position wrapped in velocity wrapped in acceleration, add some scaling based on how much the arm moves vs the motor turns to keep the motion smooth and repeatable, and you have a complex motion system, this way you can do things like feed in an orientation and position of a manipulator and it will be able to move to it most times (all times needs some fancier modelling to avoid hitting the wrong end of a motion limit)If I am waffling on, its because you don't need more than highschool math to make a working robotic motion system, now making it walk, that is a whole different ball game, but it can be overcome, you just need to wrap your head around how to describe it, and it gets a little weird when you get to inverse pendulums. and optimizing curved routes.

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 05, 2019, 02:00:58 pm
content: yeah if you really love robot... not just love as a puppy... go buy inverse kinematic book, that will be more fun...
Looking for board assembly service provider - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: alexg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 24, 2019, 02:56:13 pm
content: Hello I am looking for US based pick and place board assembly provider with reasonable pricing, I have contacted few companies via email and got quotes back, however I have a feeling that I can find better deal by reference. If anyone can please suggest some US based companies with good quality work to contact it will be highly appreciated, thank you in advance.

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 24, 2019, 06:22:56 pm
content: macrofab

author: alexg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 27, 2019, 06:52:24 pm
content: Quote from: mrpackethead on June 24, 2019, 06:22:56 pmThanks, trying to get a quote form them.

author: Harjit
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 29, 2019, 12:13:53 am
content: I've asked MacroFab for sample quotes and they said the info. was proprietary and they couldn't share it. Makes sense.So, anyone here used them? If so, can you share details and costs?Thanks.

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 29, 2019, 01:43:39 am
content: Quote from: Harjit on June 29, 2019, 12:13:53 amIts really easy to go online to their website and create a quote. you could upload your real gerbers, you can tweak your design to optimise etc etc. They are not the cheapest, but they are the easiest.

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 26, 2019, 12:58:31 pm
content: I am looking for a PCB assembly provider at an affordable price.

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 26, 2019, 08:13:33 pm
content: Quote from: technotronix on July 26, 2019, 12:58:31 pmHave you tryed yourselfhttps://www.technotronix.us/pcb-assembly.html
Solder - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bostonman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 25, 2019, 02:49:32 pm
content: Not sure if this is an ideal "Manufacturing" question, but it's about solder for plumbing.Prior to lead free stuff, regular PCB solder was 63/37. Someone told me solder for plumbing is 50/50. Is this true or was it also 63/37?I was also told solder for plumbing is still available, but thought it was obsolete and replaced with lead free.

author: ar__systems
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 25, 2019, 02:59:51 pm
content: Plumbing solder is lead-free only. Many years now.

author: bostonman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 25, 2019, 03:41:04 pm
content: QuoteThanks.... so was it 50/50 or 63/37?

author: Monkeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 25, 2019, 03:59:31 pm
content: 50/50 has certainly been used for plumbing. Also 37/63 (not 63/37), 30/70, and a few other leaded alloys over the years in different places. I don't think 63/37 has ever been common in plumbing. Its claim to fame is being eutectic, which is fairly irrelevant for pipes (and just to annoy people: For electronics, too).

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 25, 2019, 09:47:20 pm
content: As far as I know, the only reason Sn50Pb50 was used for plumbing is that it was cheaper.
Solder paste machine for sale  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 14, 2019, 06:34:48 pm
content: My workplace has an SMTech solder paste machine available for sale.I don't know how much they want for it, but it is likely to be scrapped if not sold, so it would be a shame if that happened. Please PM me if interested and I will get in touch with the production manager with any offers.I have no involvement in this sale other than putting interested parties in contact with the company. I'll try to read off the model number and options list (if applicable) tomorrow.
Vizio p502ui-b1e PCB soldering question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: BCJonesy
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 15, 2019, 03:47:14 am
content: Newbie here to PCB, and I'm trying to fool around and see if I can fix this thing. My question is a quick one. Will the solder point with what appear to be blow holes cause the board to fail? I've replaced the eeprom that is commonly an issue but no luck.PCB #(x) xec bot k004060x/etekx4Thanks,BrianTrying to post pic below.

author: BCJonesy
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 15, 2019, 03:49:02 am
content: Pic of solder.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2019, 03:55:11 am
content: I'm really not sure what i'm looking at with those 2 holes in the solder?How did they get there?Is it attachment holes for a heatsink maybe?Re attached pic so people don't have to download 4.4MB
good pcb manufacturer for 8 to 12 layers pcb? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: abcguy
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 13, 2019, 03:38:18 am
content: Anyone know which pcb manufacturer is good for 8 to 12 layers pcb?Good qualities and price? Thanks.

author: OwO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 13, 2019, 04:03:57 am
content: For 8 layers currently hqpcb has the best price (~$80). About $90 for 3.5mil trace/spacing and 0.2mm drills.10 layers or more is tough. It isn't very common so the price skyrockets.
Air compressor for auto-syringing pump controller - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mdszy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 26, 2019, 03:13:45 am
content: So I decided to buy one of those cheapo deals on ebay that let you hook up a syringe to an air hose and use that to dispense solder paste, glue, etc. with a foot switch...I made the mistake of not realizing that it doesn't have an integrated air compressor!I've heard that it's necessary to use oil-free air compressors with these. Does anyone have any recommendations? I'm looking for something hopefully under $50USD.

author: forrestc
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 26, 2019, 03:50:16 am
content: There are lots of small air compressors out there for about the range you are talking about. Pretty much any of them should work for your application. For instance, harbor freight have a couple for around $60.Pretty much anything that small/cheap is going to be oil free as well.If you spend a bit more (around $100), you should be able to pick up a decent brand name one from the local box store - for instance home depot has a 6 gal 150PSI one available for $100. And this is large enough that you could run pretty much anything which doesn't need a continual air source.On the other hand, these will be pretty loud to run, so perhaps obtaining an airbrush compressor which is lower CFM, but quieter might be an option. however, I'd be concerned about whether or not those would produce enough PSI to dispense.
DFMnow 6.6 as support for KiCAD DFM - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: szymon019
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 24, 2019, 06:52:16 pm
content: Hi Colleagues,Do you have on your HDDs old version of DFMnow! free let's say 6.6 or 7.2 and could share it with me or other colleagues?According to videos on YTin past it was free and able to point to errors and generate PDF report. Actually in V8 those functions seems to be removed. It indicates that it found some errors but it is useless when you can't point directly to findings.I don't want to use web based DFM enginees and KiCAD in this field is really poor when trying to make 6 layers mini computer board.Thank you in advance.Simon
More grown-up reflow ovens? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: alanambrose
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 17, 2019, 08:18:58 am
content: Hi,I've had some expensive boards delaminate / burn in a Beta Reflow set-up recently. Due, I think, to wildly varying temperatures in the simple oven they supply.I worked once out of a university lab that had a more grown-up convector oven that seemed to be good, but don't have the details or access anymore.It was vaguely like this:https://www.amazon.com/Wisco-Wisco-620-Commercial-Convection-Counter/dp/B013SF411MAnyone have any experience sourcing / specing / using a convector oven? Or alternatively, recommendations on something more grown-up than a toaster oven but not a full volume manufacturing conveyor oven?TIA, Alan

author: Cloud
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 17, 2019, 10:23:37 am
content: Check LPKF or eurocircuits soldering oven

author: alanambrose
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 17, 2019, 04:29:30 pm
content: Ah just found this thread:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/professional-grade-reflow-ovens/

author: bleckers
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2019, 03:10:33 am
content: Was it the TWS Automation machine -https://www.hawkerrichardson.com.au/electronic-production-equipment/soldering-ovens/convection-reflow-soldering-ovens/convection-oven-220-volt-850

author: chrisc
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 10, 2019, 05:09:37 am
content: I know this thread is a few months old but I’ll mention anyway the “reflo air” open-source reflow station on CrowdSupply (https://www.crowdsupply.com/magicbox/refloair) has been funded and is still open.The creators have successfully delivered a previous project (a reflow oven) so I have backed this one as almost all of my PCB designs are small. I’m expecting to get it in early August.As to how useful it will be, time will tell.

author: HHaase
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2019, 07:30:52 pm
content: I've had good luck using a "Controleo" conversion of a toaster oven. Basically adds a thermocouple and temperature controller to a toaster oven. For basic boards it works fairly well. Eventually I'd like to upgrade to something nicer, but it's been doing well for me for a few years now.-Hans

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 10:19:59 pm
content: How many boards are you doing? If it’s low numbers then you might consider vapor phase

author: trevwhite
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2019, 05:54:44 pm
content: You could try vapor phase. There seems to be some push towards a DIY rig. I cant remember the threads but there are some on here.Also here is a Youtube video of a basic setup that appears to work.https://youtu.be/czwRntpEzggTrev
Make a hobby PNP machine? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Harjit
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2019, 10:31:34 pm
content: What do folks in the know think about using one of the following:https://www.sainsmart.com/products/sainsmart-genmitsu-cnc-router-3018-mx3?refSrc=2518199304271&nosto=best-sellershttps://www.sainsmart.com/products/sainsmart-genmitsu-cnc-router-3018-pro-diy-kitmarrying it with a head like:https://github.com/BETZtechnik/ICEpick--Direct-drive-pick-and-place-head/wikiUsing OpenPNP to control it.Still have to think about how to do simple tape feeders or pick up from a tray. To me, some low tech, simple solution is desirable.I do few boards but need to use a few 0.4mm pitch QFN (don't ask) parts.Thanks.

author: spanner888
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 20, 2019, 06:12:56 am
content: It could do PNP, but..... that is a really really tiny workarea. I have put a lot of thought into using & optimising a roughly similar sized small workarea and while it is possible, the impact on setup and teardown time as well as limit on number of parts is a real challenge.For PNP you need lots of space for PCB(s), clamps, and heaps of space for feeders, part trays and best if you have cameras. Plus it helps a lot if there is enough space to get your hands in there to tweak things without bumping parts in open tape etc.If you can get access to a CNC to make your plates, then cost of full DIY build for a larger stlye like the example builds at Openpnp.org are then around similar price to the CNC you linked (especially if like me you can scrounge the plate from scrap bins). I am currently cutting plates and assembling an OpenPnp openbuilds style and am a bit dismayed at how small the 500x500 frame looks (noting that usable workarea is always a LOT smaller than your frame & drive rods), so my build might end up being 500x900 or larger.

author: Harjit
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 20, 2019, 06:47:12 am
content: Thank you for the points you made.I'd love to know more about your build.My boards tend to be tiny - 100mm x 100mm. But this is today. Who knows what the future brings.I think cameras are a must. I keep thinking two cameras are needed - one on the head to pick up the part and pick up fiducials and pads on the board and another one looking at the head to make sure it has a part and the "exact" angle of the part.
Are PCBCart and FirstPCB the same company? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: FullCode
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 19, 2019, 05:22:08 pm
content: They both list the same address in China, so it seems like the answer is yes.https://www.firstpcb.com/article/resources.jhtml?content=15https://www.pcbcart.com/company/contact-us.htmlPCBCart seems well rated and loved around here. Have any of you used FirstPCB? Their prices seem amazingly, if not ridiculously, low.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2019, 10:30:40 pm
content: They do seem a bit low, $2 for 2 layer 10x10, and $25 for 4 layer 10x10. Those are JLC price levels.But their specs are not good, if they are right: 0.2mm track 0.4mm hole size (8/16mil).Some older discussions:https://www.reddit.com/r/PrintedCircuitBoard/comments/59d06s/chinese_pcbcart_and_firstpcb_credibility/

author: FullCode
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 20, 2019, 12:09:38 am
content: Thanks. Those specs are actually good enough for what I'm doing.
Buying Equipment - Purchasing Checklists - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 05:40:16 am
content: What things do you put on your list of things that are important when buying equipment. My list is a bit variable, as the value goes up the diligence gets longer.1. Who am I buying from? - Where are they, can you verify an address?2. Reputation - Have others dealt with them, particually people who I trust their opinion3. Payment terms and Method. Do the payment terms work? Am i going to be exposed if the seller does not deliver? Does the payment details make sense?Obviously as you build a relationship up with a vendor you get a bit more comfortable.Then there are all the questions about if the thing you want to buy is suitable, sufficient quality

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 06:05:14 am
content: Do they have a website ?Will they answer emails ?

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 07:33:18 am
content: Given how fast you can generate a website, is that a useful way to validate them?

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 10:00:02 pm
content: Installed base in the field

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2019, 12:05:12 am
content: I would definitely count a decent website as telling you something, while anyone can knock up a website, it does make a difference when someone has taken some time over it.How good is their communication?If I ask about a specific technical point do they answer it properly?+1 for installed userbase.Can I see it in a customer premises?Can I see it without travelling 1000s of miles?Can I try my data or product on it?Who supports it?What training is there, can it be on premises?What warranties are offered, parts, labour, lifetime, plenty of equipment has a weird mix of all 3 even on one item?How quickly do you guarantee to fix something?What does a service contract or callout cost?Does it talk to other systems or offer an API?What was the last fault you fixed on one?Whats the most common fault?Does it meet all my requirements now?What potential requirements does it not meet that I don't currently think I need? (and vice versa)?Do I fully understand what I'm buying?How much servicing can I do myself?What is the manual like. (nobody should really decline giving you a manual)?I don't think there's an ultimate piece of equipment for many applications so they key is to understand as well as you possibly can exactly what you are looking to buy, why, how that matches your requirements now and how those requirement s might change in the future.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 06:00:03 am
content: Quote from: blueskull on June 12, 2019, 04:52:13 amUp unit recently we've always failed on #2.
Panel Sticker Prototyping - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jjoonathan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 12:32:40 am
content: How do you all prototype panel stickers?I gave it a try using print + cut mode with full registration marks on my wife's Silhouette Cameo 3 but I haven't been able to get registration & scale accuracy better than about 1mm and from the looks of it this application needs about 0.1mm to comfortably fit buttons and edges without unsightly margins. Does anyone have recommendations for cheap plotters or prototype services that might work better?My calipers suggest that my printer is much more accurate than the plotter, so I might wind up just using an exacto and a steady hand, but it's going to make iteration a real pain, so if you have an alternative I'd love to hear it.

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 02:05:36 am
content: Not sure what features you want to have on your front panel, but could you plot what you need using one (or more) of the Cameo pens prior to cutting?I've got a Silhouette Curio, and I've been meaning to try the Pixscan mat to see how accurately it can do registration. I think Pixscan is also available for the Cameo, and I'd expect it to be better than standard print + cut.

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 08:30:18 pm
content: Quote from: jjoonathan on June 12, 2019, 12:32:40 amFor years I've used a material from Vital Presentation Concepts. it has a laminated material with UV sensitive glue and a dye layer. When exposed to UV, the die sticks to the glue and transfers from one layer to the other. Peeling the layers is somewhat tricky. Then, you laminate the sheet with the image to a vinyl sheet that is double-stick. This can then be adhered to the panel. The image layer is on the BACK of the clear cover layer, so it is protected from wear.Unfortunately, they've discontinued this stuff! They have a new material that you print on a laser printer. Black will be fine, but I don't know if color laser printed images will resist ambient UV. I have not tried their new stuff yet, but will eventually have to try it out.As for switches and display windows, once the laminated label is applied to the panel, I just cut around all panel openings with an X-acto knife.I have a gadget made from several X-acto blades held together with a C-clamp that can ride around the panel and cut the label to just inside the panel outside dimensions so the label doesn't get peeled back in use.Here's a picture of one of those panels :https://pico-systems.com/switcher.htmlJon
Fume Extraction for Desktop Reflow Ovens (or Puhui T960) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tboicey
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2019, 11:53:28 pm
content: I'm using a hacked Puhui T962A like many people here, and the results are very acceptable. (I actually started with a hacked T962 and it worked also but I upgraded for a little more size)(it's being fed be a Neoden 3V Advanced and a generic stencil rig)However, lately I'm going from making 20 or so boards at a sitting to maybe 100 boards at a sitting, and the fumes are becoming something I need to deal with.Is there any way to get reasonable fume extraction for a reasonable price? Like a boxed fume hood for a workable price? Or maybe experience with a range hood type of setup?Alternatively, does anyone have experience with the Puhui T960 and using it's two top vents to vent externally? With that whole machine only being $1000us or so it limits the amount of time and money I want to spend boxing up a T962A.Opinions?

author: Smallsmt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2019, 06:21:50 am
content: Simply use our HR-300 it has fume extracting vent already included!We use a tube and vent on the backside to blow the fumes out.The price is 935usd.https://www.smallsmt.biz/reflow-oven-hr-300/RegardsMichael
Factory tour in PCB way. Scotty from strange parts - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Ribster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2019, 04:56:55 pm
content: Nice overall view an explenation of a whole assembly line.I'm going to show this video to anyone asking what i do

author: flydrive
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2019, 03:01:59 am
content: That was a great video, along with his other one on PCB manufacture at JLCPCB (I think it was), that's a pretty comprehensive introduction to everything which happens between generating gerbers and plugging your board in .. and watching it disappear in a puff of smokeI did have to grind my teeth every time he said 'solder' and left the 'l' out, but it was a small price to pay for the informative video.
Using MS Polymer as a potting compound - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jfiresto
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2019, 08:14:29 am
content: Has anyone used MS Polymer construction adhesive as a potting compound? I want to pot the connector and wires at the end of an adapter cable, I can wait, and I do not need more than roughly 5 mm of cure depth.I have some UHU Ultra construction adhesive (381 Kbyte TDS) which sticks to almost anything, does not shrink and has a Shore A hardness of 70, that of a typical car tire.

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2019, 03:07:36 pm
content: Well its non-acidic which is typically the first stumbling block when using silicon sealants/adhesives with electronics.Electrical conductivity you could testDepending what you are potting, thermal conductivity could be an issue, I don't see numbers for that so who knows.

author: jfiresto
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2019, 04:37:22 pm
content: Thank you for that tidbit.I searched a bit more and found a company that is marketing MS Polymer as – yes indeed – an electronic potting compound (508 kByte PDF). They don't say much about the limited cure depth.Since the stuff came out of Japan, I should add, it is also good in earthquakes.

author: xavier60
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2019, 10:50:27 pm
content: TB1530C is one of the few moisture cure sealant/adhesives that is liquid. I haven't actually used it for potting, I have used it to seal off high voltage transistor pads.https://threebond-europe.com/products/tb1530c/The product can be difficult to source.

author: jfiresto
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2019, 10:49:38 am
content: Thank you for the link to a quite useful datasheet, clearly written by practitioners to help other practitioners. I think MS Polymer will be the right stuff. When I get a chance I am also going to have see if it really does bond to nylon.

author: xavier60
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2019, 11:05:33 am
content: I have also been using this product although it's not a liquid,https://www.vipfast.com.au/product/hb-fuller-toolbox-invisible-ms-adhesive-sealant/

author: jfiresto
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2019, 12:35:11 pm
content: Hmmm. That one has a Shore A hardness of 49. I am getting the impression that clear implies softer.
Protective plating on DIY PCBs - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jeremy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2019, 03:29:31 am
content: Hi,I currently use the MG chemicals tin plating solution on my DIY PCBs. Unfortunately, it seems that the flux in my solder paste is eating away the tin during soldering, leaving bare copper around the soldered components. The remaining surface is also difficult to solder to, even with additional flux, so I assume it is quite oxidised.This is the paste:http://www.chipquik.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=440001and the flux is synthetic no clean flux.I have ordered some other pastes to test, but does anyone have any suggestions for other things I could try? I was thinking of perhaps a thicker layer of tin, but as I understand the immersion tin is not autocatalytic, so I'm not sure if it's possible to get it to plate any thicker. HASL looks kind of interesting, but I can't seem to find many resources on the levelling part in particular (which is important because I do a lot of SMD stuff).Any help or pointers would be appreciated.

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2019, 05:13:57 am
content: hello Jeremy,We use immersion silver. It is an alkaline process not the usual acidic / Cyanide based process.Silver does alloy with tin happily and not being bright silver it does not rely on organic compounds ( for brightness) and therefore solders reasonably well.

author: jeremy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2019, 05:23:16 am
content: Very interesting IconicPCB (ziggy!). Is it a secret recipe, or can you point me toward a reference?

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2019, 07:16:25 am
content: No secret, just result of purposeful selection of materials. A commercial product, will need to dig up the info. and yes it is I...captain Clark's...and SHoehorn... to misquote the footwear advertisement.
8mm CL feeder difference - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Ribster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2019, 10:30:45 am
content: There are 8*2mm feeders and 8*4mm CL feeders.What is the actual difference ?Are the 2mm high ones for the paper tapes of 8mm width ?I assume the 4mm ones are for the plastic tape ones of 8mm width ?When ordering feeders. How do i mix them ? Should i all order 4mm high ones, or mostly 2mm ?

author: pisoiu
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2019, 10:36:34 am
content: 0402 components are on 8*2 feeders, 0603 and up are on 8*4. 2 and 4mm refers to component step.

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2019, 10:36:44 am
content: Major difference is the tape feed distance.0402 and 0201 components come on a tape of 2mm pitch others some on a tape of 4 mm and larger tape.So 2mm refers to the 2 mm component pitch ( distance between adjacent parts and 4 mm similarly to a 4 mm distance between adjacent parts.

author: Ribster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2019, 11:04:21 am
content: That one is cleared out!Thanks guys. I need to figure what my 0402 / 0603 distribution is then!

author: Smallsmt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2019, 08:17:23 pm
content: Here are the Yamaha CL Feeder order codesYamaha CL 8*2mm Feeders for 0201, KW1-M1500-030 2mm pitch high precisionYamaha CL 8*2mm Feeders for 0402, KW1-M1400-00X 2mm pitch normal precisionYamaha CL 8*4mm Feeders, KW1-M1100-000 4mm pitch standard feederYamaha CL 12mm Feeders, KW1-M2200-300 adjustable pitch by mechanicsYamaha CL 16mm Feeders, KW1-M3200-10X adjustable pitch by mechanicsYamaha CL 24mm Feeders, KW1-M4500-015 adjustable pitch by mechanicsYamaha CL 32mm Feeders, KW1-M5500-010 adjustable pitch by mechanics
TVM920 multiple feeder strokes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: RobK_NL
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 15, 2019, 06:16:52 am
content: On my TVM920, I have to configure a feeder for a TQFP-32 package.It's on a 16mm tape, with a distance between components of 12mm. As the feeder can only advance either 4 or 8mm per stroke, I need to somehow tell the machine to advance 3 strokes.The "manual" that came with the machine shows a field in the feeder setup that may well serve this purpose but, alas, this field is not present in the software that came with the machine, nor in the latest version I got from QiHe.The .dat file that holds the feeder information does contain a field that seems to correspond, but before hacking this I would like to know if anyone has -successfully- dealt with this already.

author: RobK_NL
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2019, 02:11:05 pm
content: Seriously? None of the TVM920 owners on this forum has come across this?Or are you all using OpenPnP?

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 07:35:14 am
content: The pitch of the feeders is a function of the feeder, not the machine.

author: RobK_NL
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 09:20:59 am
content: Quote from: mrpackethead on May 26, 2019, 07:35:14 amAs if I didn't know thatQuote from: RobK_NL on May 15, 2019, 06:16:52 amAnd that's a bitch when the components are 12mm apart in the tape.My previous machine could be instructed to advance the tape more than one stroke before picking. My question is how to do this on the TVM920 (if possible at all!)?

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 09:37:00 am
content: My good friend Micheal at SmallSMT even made a video. Setup your feeder so it advances 12mm in one go. Its how its intended to work.https://www.smallsmt.biz/app/download/13679295932/CL_16_12.mp4?t=1551996319

author: RobK_NL
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 10:01:20 am
content: Well, I live and learn ...Thanks!

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 07:52:07 pm
content: Don’t worry. You are not the first and won’t be the last
ultrasonic PCB cleaning sweep bandwdith and center frequency? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: coppercone2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2019, 04:19:45 pm
content: So for PCB ultrasonic cleaners I have heard in the past that you need to sweep the frequency to prevent damage to bond wires on packages during cleaning and such.I see units that are advertised as having a frequency sweep have a fairly tight bandwidth, I.e. a 100KHz unit might sweep +-5KHzWhat is required to safely clean soldered circuit boards in terms of center frequency and sweep bandwidth, and sweep rate.http://www.circuitnet.com/experts/60108.htmlSome of these guys say no if you want ultimate reliability regardless.

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2019, 10:16:18 pm
content: The ultrasonic transducer has a pretty high Q limiting its bandwidth if power efficient operation is desired and the driver operates the transducer at resonance.One way is to use some type of linear driver to force operation away from resonance at a loss of efficiency. I think common swept designs do this. An alternative might be to use a "swinging inductor" as part of the resonant circuit and sweep its inductance using a bias current but I do not know if this is ever done.

author: coppercone2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2019, 11:00:34 pm
content: https://www.smartsonic.com/PDFfiles/UltrasonicCleaningOfPCBs-DamageFree.pdf
Desoldering THT station - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Ribster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 20, 2019, 11:12:03 am
content: I am in the market for a good THT desoldering station.I've got experience with the SS-331BC-F from Proskit (Farnell buy), in my previous company.That was not that great experience...I'm seeing that JBC also has desoldering equipment, but it's $$$.If it's really worth the money, i'd buy it, but i doubt it.Any suggestions ? So purely focussing on through hole desoldering..

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 20, 2019, 11:28:39 am
content: We used to have the Weller ones that generated their own vacuum in our repairs section but I can't say we enjoyed using them or that doing so resulted in any fewer damaged vias than not using a dedicated de-soldering station did. In many ways you can't beat using a solder pot and then a good supply of the spring loaded desoldering guns, we like the green ones and have tried most of the ones in RS/Farnell.On those occasions where I need to rework something, I like to resort to cutting the legs off with very sharp sidecudders and then removing the pins one by one, which is fine if the item in question is not a hideous fine pitch connector.

author: Mark Staun
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 22, 2019, 10:56:52 am
content: We have been using the Apex Tool Group and the Weller Industrial Kit for a couple of years in our small company. We are very satisfied with the manufacturer. According to their characteristics, they also suit us. If you want more information, go here.https://solderingironguide.com/reviews/best-soldering-guns/

author: wulfman
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 22, 2019, 02:33:08 pm
content: I use a good soldering iron and a Air conditioning vacuum pump, connected to a glass cylinder with a Teflon tip.Been using it for over 40 years. I cannot remember the make of the glass tube. It used to be connected to a foot pedal and a vacuum venturi unit, powered by compressed air. I find the vacuum pump much more efficient.

author: rickmoll
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 22, 2019, 07:34:55 pm
content: I prefer the pencil rather than the pistol grip style of desoldering irons.I've had a Pace dual channel analog workstation with internal vacuum pump for about 30 years. I can't imagine ever going back to using sping driven "solder suckers".The main disadvantage of the old Pace analog gear is it takes a long time to heat up, and doesn't have any kind of sleep mode. But it seems like a lot of the old Pace gear shows up on Ebay.I recently purchased some JBC hot air gear, and am considering a JBC THT desoldering setup because they heat up very quickly and then auto sleep.The newer Pace digital stations can auto sleep their irons, but I don't think any of the Pace desoldering irons can heat up anywhere as fast as the JBC.
Interesting BGA sealing method - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Smallsmt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2019, 10:49:06 am
content: On SMTConnect exhibition i talked to Randy Temple from Action Integrated Resources INC.www.ActionIR.comThey developed an interesting sealing method using small pnp placeable hotmelt parts.It's called PLACE-N-BOND Underfilms.They get placed befor BGA placed to position at the corners of the package.During reflow processing the sealing material melts and covers the outside pins.https://youtu.be/oLOhEq1QyVQ

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2019, 11:57:34 am
content: Someone mentioned them on SMTnet fairly recently I think. Its pretty handy if you need that kinda thing, otherwise you need a dispenser to apply an (insert correct material name here) around the device after placement which is an extra process and something to clean.

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2019, 09:19:13 pm
content: What is the problem that is this solves?

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2019, 09:39:06 pm
content: Mechanical stress relief is the main one I believe.

author: Smallsmt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2019, 10:17:10 pm
content: Quote from: mrpackethead on May 13, 2019, 09:19:13 pmSealing to prevent humidity under BGA.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2019, 10:21:39 pm
content: Quote from: mrpackethead on May 13, 2019, 09:19:13 pmThe same problem regular underfill solves would be my guess.

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2019, 10:51:52 pm
content: Quote from: mrpackethead on May 13, 2019, 09:19:13 pmunauthorized replacement of parts in Apple gear

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2019, 11:26:03 pm
content: Quote from: SMTech on May 13, 2019, 09:39:06 pmYes, it seems so. From what i see as pitch gets smaller, ball size gets smaller too, and mechanically its prone to failure due to shock or thermal cycling. I'm struggling to grasp how these sticky dots help. :-) more reading reuqried.
T-942C IR Oven - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Pooldawg
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2019, 09:30:28 pm
content: Hello all,I wanted to start a second thread on the 942C IR oven. I saw quite a few mods that had been done to the 942 and 942A. I didnt see any suggestions for the C.I googled around and couldn't find much in ways of improvements to the 942C. Am I missing something?I have some time until the machine gets here and can be proactive on anything the 942C needs.Thanks!Pd

author: Reckless
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 17, 2019, 02:33:20 am
content: I bought one for $200 but never used it because of not finding enough good reviews on it. If I remember correctly there were issues of hot spots and a strong recommendation never to buy an IR oven. I follow that philosophy currently and stick only to convection heat reflow ovens.
Bought the Charm High CHMT530P4 Machine! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Pooldawg
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2019, 09:28:31 pm
content: I ended up going with the CHMT530P4 machine and loaded it up with feeders. Kimi at Charm High was super helpful! We spent quite a bit of time on Skype answering questions and such. Kimi definitely gets!It is shipping Fedex Door 2 Door and will be here in a weekish timeframe.Will keep everyone updated, I'll accept ant tips and tricks/do's and don't do's for the machine.Thanks!PD

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2019, 11:05:51 pm
content: What was the thing that made you pick this machine over all the others?
Hakko 394 tips - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Harjit
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2019, 01:31:52 am
content: Just got a Hakko 394 and wanted to get advice on tips I should purchase.I plan to use it with the following size components:* 0402* 0603* 0805* 1206* 32pin to 48 pin QFN* 7mm x 7mm BGA* 3mm x 3mm FETs* 2mm x 2mm DFN6* 0.77mm x 0.77mm DSGBA / PicoStarThanks.

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2019, 01:37:55 am
content: The suction cup tip that comes with it is good for probably all the IC's you listed.For the passives, I suggest you buy a set of bent syringe tips to find the sizes you prefer. On eBay, you can find 5 packs, 1 each of 5 different sizes, for under 10 bucks, delivered.I find 25 gauge is good down to 0603 and will still pick up 1206's and SOT IC/transistors just fine. For 0402, you might prefer a 26 gauge needle. When the needle is too big, you can suck the end partly in so it is crooked and/or you can accidentally pick up 2 or 3 parts at a time. But too small, and it may be difficult to get enough suction to get the part out of the tape, in case that is how you are doing it.The needles will occasionally clog if you touch paste or flux with the tip. I suggest you keep a syringe handy, with some alcohol. And the needles will eventually loosen from being cleaned with alcohol, so when you find the tips you like, keep a few backups handy.You can buy a cheapo squeeze pen to get a backup suction cup tip. In case you drop a tube of IC, it might be handy to have a straight needle with a suction cup end to it. By frakensteining and bending parts, you can get one of these. So you can pick up and rotate and drop a part back down.

author: Harjit
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2019, 04:48:28 pm
content: Thank you for the detailed and informative reply.Just to be sure I understand your suggestion, is this an example of what you were referring to:https://www.ebay.com/itm/Bent-angled-blunt-needles-dispensing-needle-tips-1-2-30-pcs-15Ga-27Ga/251453745342?hash=item3a8bcfa8be:g:DWQAAOxy5jxSdNFZSince I have a choice of the tip gauge, should I get more of the "smaller" i.e. higher gauge number?

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2019, 05:18:12 pm
content: Yeah, almost perfect. I would suggest you get the ones that are bent only 45 degrees, though. These look like a full 90.As for size, the only ones I have needed for a good while, now, are 25 and 26. I dunno if that is optimal for 0402, but it works for the odd duck I use. So I think 27 would be as small as you need. A 24 might be useful if you are doing a lot of larger passives.
Greeting from Gary (AoYuan cable manufacturing) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: GaryT
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 08, 2019, 05:37:26 am
content: Hi allThis is Gary from Ao Yuan, we are cable manufacturing based in China.We can offer wide range of cables such as: hospital equipment, IT, home entertainment, in-car harness, audio etc...We can provide from design, tooling, samples, testing n production services.Please find attached small selection of our current production.We can provide great quality and service at affordable price.You are welcome to email to discuss further.Email: gary@aytech.com.hkSent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 08, 2019, 05:51:41 am
content: Greetings Gary!Thanks for posting the cable pron, but this forum isn't a free advertising service.

author: GaryT
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 08, 2019, 05:59:47 am
content: Hi KeanNoted， I have read the term and condition of the fourm before post。I am also looking for someone with innovation to work together by using our factory service。We will also post some of our project soon for discussion。Hope not just advertisement but also contribution to the fourm。Many thanksSent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 08, 2019, 06:24:30 am
content: Quote from: GaryT on May 08, 2019, 05:59:47 amYou'd better make sure your next post is a contribution!
Panelizing fpcs & reinforcements - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: alanambrose
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2019, 11:34:15 am
content: Hi,Err, to allow for fpcs with a few components mounted on them - for pick and place, is there some kind of an equivalent to panels & v-scoring that you would use for, say, fr4?That is, can I generally get my fpcs as a panel with some kind of fairly easy separation method?A second question - is there a general standard for communicating reinforcement areas? That is, is there some standard naming etc or other conventions? Should I supply this an another gerber etc?Alan

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2019, 02:03:16 am
content: QuoteMost manufacturers will offer you the option of receiving individual boards or panels. When in a panel, they will add supports that tear out, easily. They know how to do this, because it's their business. All you have to do is supply the Gerber for the panel as you need it for your PnP machine, put on any markers/slots/holes you needs, and choose tab routing; they will take care of the supports better than you could have guessed on your first try.I dunno... maybe some manufacturers are better than others. I have worked with OP's FPC panels and they were a total PITA to separate the boards. I dunno if they were user-specified or if it was the work of the manufacturer, but they were not that great. Any rate, if you let them do it, you get to at least see how that professional shop does it, and you can try to design something better if you want.
Universal 4688A PNP - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2019, 08:18:32 pm
content: Hi, does anyone know about these machines? theres also a 4681A.. I have no expereince with universal, but there are some avaialble for sale.

author: Reckless
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 07, 2019, 03:09:14 am
content: Yes, I have 7 universal machines. I like them alot, very accurate and reliable. I think of them as the best on the market. Not sure which one 4688A is. Sounds like an early GSM. They have 3 different head types (more if you count improvements). We don't like the windows software too much, OS2 is nice but lacking a few features. Universals are really good for long run assemblies not switching between prototypes. Their accuracy beats asian machines of similar era (not sure on fuji). The older models are easy to find replacement parts.I'm a huge fan but I haven't played with the new modular smt machines. They are tanks that never die, like an old benz.
100 unit PCBA options - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: loki42
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 27, 2019, 06:51:35 am
content: I've been building my PCBs by hand but interested to hear options for PCBA. The board is single sided, I've got all parts and all SMD are on reels. 40 unique parts per board, 140 total SMD, 15 PTH, though I could do PTH myself if it's much cheaper.Are there alternatives to the ones listed on PCB shopper I should check out that arelower cost at 100 units?0402 packages and 0.5 pin pitch mostly. No BGA. I've used PCB Way in the past and usually get my boards from JLC PCB who I'm very happy with.AllPCB isUS$3.34 / board, If anyone's used them before for assembly.

author: jonash
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 30, 2019, 11:11:15 pm
content: I have used AllPCB once for assembly, of a simple board. I was happy with the result, altough it took longer time than I expected. But they where also sourcing the parts, and that was the step that took most of the time. I don’t know how it works if you already have the parts.