hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Communicate with manufacturers through Alibaba or direct? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: K3mHtH
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2023, 05:15:13 am
content: Hey everyone,I'm looking at getting some custom PSU's made through a manufacturer in Taiwan. They are active on Alibaba, so I'm wondering if there is any advantage to contacting the manufacturer through Alibaba to arrange the transaction?I've used albaba in the past and still not quite sure how they work or what they do. They seem to act as an intermediary, and presumably offer some sort of "trade insurance" - but I'm not sure how or if they can hold a manufacturer accountable for delivering my product. And if that's any actual advantage to emailing the manufacturer directly and sending them a bank transfer.Thoughts? experiences?

author: Jackster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2023, 05:20:19 am
content: Alibaba is like PayPal.It adds a layer of protection to the buyer and seller.If a transaction goes wrong, you can ask them to set in and act as a intermediary as they are an escrow.Working directly with Asian manufacturers typically goes fine but when it does not, good luck getting your money back. Especially with Chinese suppliers.Taiwan should be better but even so. For a small % , the protection is worth it IMHO.

author: K3mHtH
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2023, 11:28:09 pm
content: Thanks for the reply Jackster,this is exactly what I was curious about.

author: phil from seattle
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2023, 12:47:33 am
content: I've been using Made-in-China. Of 4 transactions, they all went well. It's basically an RFQ type system. Definitely has some negotiation and volume can make a big difference. There is some risk I guess. I will repeat.
Weller WX serial protocol - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: owiecc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2020, 04:56:09 pm
content: Anyone got a clue what the serial protocol is for the WX stations? I only found this post atdangerous prototypes, but in true internet fashion they say they have the protocol but do not post it. I cannot find anything useful on Weller's website.My WX2 died. The display backlight turns on and that is it. I want to connect it to a computer and see if it is still alive and only the display died. I emailed Weller about service - no answer.

author: phil from seattle
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2020, 09:05:01 pm
content: from the DP thread, it looks like it's a serial protocol. That should be pretty easy to sniff out if you can't find the actual protocol definition. I'd check it first with an Oscope to see if it's really RS232 or just async (logic level). I'd bet the latter.

author: ehagerty
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 29, 2020, 07:37:02 am
content: Hi, first post so forgive me if I lack correct etiquette. I don't think I can legally give you their document, but if you google "weller Application Note: WAN12-0006" that's what you are after. I spoke with their AMAZING tech support and they sent it right over - such awesome people at that company IMO.What I don't yet know, but have asked, is if you can interface via the USB bus or have to use the RJ11 on the back of most units - which is what the serial chip is attached to. IIRC it is an analog devices ADM3251E or similar.If you do anything interesting with the comms do post it as I'd love to know what you learn.

author: ehagerty
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 29, 2020, 02:13:03 pm
content: Just a follow up - you must use the RJ11 port on the rear - although they are working on a USB interface it isn't part of the current product line.

author: kubark42
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2023, 01:47:27 pm
content: Found easily thanks to @ehagerty!
OLED displays in ultrasound washer..? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: espena
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2023, 05:25:41 pm
content: Hi, all!I have a bunch of 0.96" OLED display modules for an ongoing project. The documentation says nothing about whether or not the modules are washable - so I tossed one of them into my ultrasound cleaner for a test.Five minutes in demineralised water didn't seem to do any harm. The cleaning process did no visual damage to the display and it still worked flawlessly (attached images). Anyone with practical experience from doing this? Am I better off soldering the displays on to the PCB post cleaning?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2023, 10:54:02 pm
content: I wouldn't risk it over a bit of visible no clean flux on the board, but up to you.You can read some other datasheets or try to find the manufacturer of that display and ask them.Here is a quote fromVishay:Quotethough this seems extreme being a glass surface? I think it was glass.

author: DavidAlfa
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2023, 11:01:44 pm
content: It's glass, with plastic polarizer film on top.
through hole component lead forming handbook/guide/text? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: coppercone2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 16, 2023, 10:56:07 pm
content: I got a nice lead fformer/cutter that puts a P shape bend on a component. I bought the pace lead bender too, which has a little gimmick on it for bending some hooks and whatnot, but its kinda shitty.. I like it as a 'caliper' but the plastic 'bending bumps' are kinda crappy for the strain relief bends, the indent pliers are way less finicky for this part, but the pace tool is good for getting arbitrary 90 degree bends that are not in the standard stepped bender fixtures. It is however more customizable, but after playing with it, I would rather build a fixture with pins or something, then mess with the doodad they put on the end of the caliper. Good for light use I guess.I wanted to know if there are some texts about this. I know the NASA guide. But I was hoping for some thing more.to be more specific like how much the P bend helps, depth of bends, etc, fancier bends?

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2023, 08:53:53 pm
content: Try GPD ( General Production Devices ) out of colorado. Yhey have a range of mil spec component lead processing equipment.They may be able to help You.

author: coppercone2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2023, 10:03:27 pm
content: Ah I was just looking to learn about making the bends with hand tools and if there is advanced techniques, not starting a production line.Like you can do a P bend. But I bet someone figured some thing else you could bend out of wire then just a P, that behaves differently.but maybe they have sales literature about how bending improves reliability with some graphs or figures or something other then just recommendations to do itcuz its kinda just like 'take my advice'
QFN20 not suited to big PCB that may bend? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2023, 09:22:57 pm
content: Hi..Do you think the L3751 Buck IC may be too delicate , and suffer popped solder joints if soldered on to a 30cm by 10cm PCB, that has some PQ2620 ferrite cores on it etc.The 30 by 10 board has A 125w offline smps on it, plus some post regulating SMPS'sThe board just sits on a little 2mm ledge on both long sides.Would it best go on a little daughter board?https://www.st.com/resource/en/datasheet/l3751.pdf

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2023, 09:51:29 pm
content: Should be fine.If the board is flexing too much its going to be an issue for any component, so either make the PCB thicker or add support standoffs in the middle.If its high vibration environment then you'll want to test that.
Reasonably activated flux for PCBs - what is Kester 951? Other activated fluxes? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dmderev
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2023, 06:25:07 pm
content: Hello,I am looking for a flux to solder PCB connectors from China. They usually are nickel plated or even have some golden color, but they are not taking solder well when used with traditional RMA solder paste. They are instantly soldered with white plumber's flux paste (probably with ZnCl), but I am not sure its residuals will not corrode plated holes inside.I used a liquid flux marked as "Kester 951" - it worked OK but I cannot find any traces of it on Kester web side. I am wondering what it contained. There is a mention of Kester 2235 but it is sold in gallons only. Any ideas how to make flux in small q-ty?And I also would best need a paste form - but more active than RMA. Any advice on that and also if it needs cleaning?Thanks!

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 04, 2023, 10:54:29 pm
content: I have no idea why you couldn’t find 951 on Kester’s website. I typed “Kester 951” into Google and got this:https://www.kester.com/products/product/951-soldering-fluxIt’s also linked if you go to kester.com, click “electronic assembly”, then “liquid solder flux”, and then select the “all” tab.It’s not an RMA flux, it’s an ORL0 no-clean flux.I have encountered those unsolderable Chinese “gold” headers. I threw them out and got different ones.Why don’t you browse a website like Digi-key and look at the flux options? They’ll have the datasheets linked, which tell you whether cleaning is required. Beware that with external fluxes (liquids/pastes), no-clean fluxes are only guaranteed safe if they’ve been heated to soldering temperature. Excess flux that has run around the board and been either in sufficiently heated (or not at all) may still be active and able to cause corrosion.
FK260MI22O heatsink with no board slot? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2023, 01:03:28 pm
content: Hi,We wish to use this heatsink, but just clip it over the TO220 FET....ie, not have a slot for the base piece ("blade") . Is that OK?(Its the NFET of a 48W flyback with 24Vin.)We dont want the heatsink going through the board, as it would interfere with tracking below.We wouldnt mind having a little surface mount pad to solder the "blades" to. Is that OK?But really we just want to clip the heatsink on and no more...would that be OK?https://www.fischerelektronik.de/web_fischer/en_GB/heatsinks/C02/Attachable%20heatsink/$catalogue/fischerData/PG/FK260MI220O/search.xhtml

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2023, 01:44:38 pm
content: You tell us. You're the only one who knows anything about the operating [and shipping] environment. Either way, stop asking bloody stupid questions.
T962 reflow oven not working after firmware update - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tdavid
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 23, 2023, 09:59:17 pm
content: Hello,I got a T962 oven manufactured in 2022.I just flashed the last version of the Unified Engineering firmware. After that when I power on the oven it gets stuck on the screen with the Unified Engineering logo and does nothing. Just the lamps for the fan and heater are blinking once per second and I can hear the fan trying to start every time the lamp blinks.During the firmware flashing (with FlashMagic) I selected "Verify after programing" and it gave no errors.Unfortunatelly I didn´t save the original firmware neither tested the machine before flashing...Any clues?Regards,

author: MR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 24, 2023, 05:54:27 pm
content: compile it yourself add some debugging, monitor the serial port... go the usual route to debug it.https://github.com/UnifiedEngineering/T-962-improvements/issues/103seems like you're not the only one looking for the original one, but who knows if the 2017 version matches your overheated cash register.

author: tdavid
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 24, 2023, 06:36:33 pm
content: I have discovered something.The problem seems to be with the control board power supply.If I switch the machine on it gets stuck on the logo screen, but then if I switch it quickly off and on again then it works normally.It seems the power up sequence is not correct for the controller...In this way, even when not ideal, the machine is usable.

author: MR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2023, 02:24:50 am
content: heh now part of the learning curve is that this oven is just not usable for all kinds of projects due to (unshielded) infrared heating modules and next step will be that you'll get something else.But certainly it depends on your projects initially.

author: level6
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2023, 05:22:10 am
content: Quote from: tdavid on November 24, 2023, 06:36:33 pmI recall having this issue same on my upgraded T962. It was not consistently in failing and would only happen occasionally. I've moved on the better equipment, long ago. Even with all the upgrades, the T962 was a real disappointment.
Small numbers of heatsinks for prototyping. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2023, 02:45:48 pm
content: Hi,We wish to get a few Fischer SMD DPAK copper heatsinks, but they are MOQ 100 pces as followsThe MOQ’s for the requested parts are as follows:-Part number: FK250 – 06 – LF-PAK-TRMOQ :- 1 Reel = 450 Pcs.Part number: FK 259 – MI – 220 – HMOQ :- 100 Pcs.Part number: FK 228 – SA – L1MOQ :- 100 Pcs.https://www.fischerelektronik.de/web_fischer/en_GB/heatsinks/C04/Copper%20heatsinks%20for%20D%20PAK%20and%20others/$catalogue/fischerData/PG/FK244_13D_PAK/search.xhtmlDo you know of any "copper leaf pieces", (~0.5mm thick copper) etc, which we can bend into shape to make temporary versions for the prototypes?

author: meshtron
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2023, 02:58:16 pm
content: While I've never worked with Fischer in particular, a lot of places will send you a small number of parts as samples if you contact them directly and request, especially for prototyping. That would be my first stop if there really aren't any online shops carrying inventory willing to split off a few pieces.

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2023, 03:10:13 pm
content: must be hard to be that helpless,https://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/heatsinks/6988123

author: tggzzz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2023, 07:21:15 pm
content: Quote from: Faringdon on November 22, 2023, 02:45:48 pmQuote from: langwadt on November 22, 2023, 03:10:13 pmNah!Faringdon isn't that helpless. He just wants to chat to people.Yes, sometimes itisdifficult to distinguish that from trolling.

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2023, 07:44:07 pm
content: Quote from: tggzzz on November 22, 2023, 07:21:15 pmand I'm sure there is plenty of people here willing to chat about almost anything but, the pretending to ask a question, fake made up scenarios and silly rants, gets annoying real quick

author: tggzzz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2023, 09:01:52 pm
content: Quote from: langwadt on November 22, 2023, 07:44:07 pmPrecisely.I prefer it if my posts have some chance of helping people, albeit in a small way.Faringdon posts almost invariably waste people's time - by design, because he previously stated that he withheld information so that people wouldn't suck ideas for his mind. As if!
Heatsink for plastic case TO220 FETs? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2023, 10:19:39 am
content: Hi,Why is this heatsink billed as being for "plastic case" TO220...https://www.fischerelektronik.de/web_fischer/en_GB/heatsinks/C01/Finger%20shaped%20heatsinks/$catalogue/fischerData/PR/FK229_SA_L_1_/index.xhtml...Surely a metal tab T0220 could also use it?

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2023, 12:52:57 pm
content: Yes the metal case will fit, but the most common use is for being bolted, along with the isolated case transistor, to a PC board, as this type does not have any other mounting, like pins you solder to the board, and thus with vibration would otherwise flex the transistor leads to fracture. Isolated case so that the heatsink can be grounded, as the 4.0mm hole leaves no room for any sort of isolation bush to fit, so you either use it with the entire heatsink at the tab voltage with a metal case, making EMI performance worse, or use the isolated tab and ground the heatsink, reducing EMI radiation, at the expense of slightly higher capacitance to ground. Flapping around without being form will mean the power device will fall off after a few months of even mild vibration, which could occur during shipping alone.FK235....L1 does have the pins to allow fixing to the board vertically, the original one is designed for horizontal mounting bolted to the board alone.
Please help to find crimping tool - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: SKPang
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 18, 2023, 09:02:30 am
content: At the moment I'm crimping by a pair of plier and a bit of solder on the crimp. Not ideal.I just can't find the right crimping tool.The crimp is from Aptiv (formerly Delphi).Mfr. Part No.:12129484RShttps://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/automotive-connector-terminals/8011008?searchId=dc682aaf-cfa0-4f11-9b37-1333c619d378&gb=sRS Stock No.: 801-1008Does anyone know where I can buy the correct hand crimping tool ?

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 18, 2023, 09:38:37 am
content: Your GoogleFu is lacking!Google:Delphi Metri-Pack 150 crimperThe official tool is Aptiv 12039500.

author: SKPang
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 18, 2023, 09:47:56 am
content: Wow I've googled with the wrong key word.Thank you Ian.
JLCPCB Parts - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: karpouzi
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 07, 2023, 10:35:28 pm
content: I was looking at sourcing options for an STM32 part, and found that JLCPCB supply this MCU3 times cheaperthan regular distributors:https://www.trustedparts.com/en/part/stmicroelectronics/STM32F412RGT6https://jlcpcb.com/partdetail/Stmicroelectronics-STM32F412RGT6/C94351So I'm wondering how they achieve these prices, if JLCPCB parts are all legit and perform well?

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2023, 10:57:29 pm
content: They are not a distributor, they don't need to make a lot of profit on the part itself. Their profit comes from the assembly service charge.Even if you look at the part on LCSC, it costs $4.5405 for a single piece. JLCPCB price is $4.2810. So, the actual distributor part of the business makes a bit more on the same part.Western distributors are used to making a lot more on single quantity orders. They also have traceability and provide other services and support that you won't get out of LCSC.

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2023, 11:53:18 pm
content: Quote from: ataradov on December 07, 2023, 10:57:29 pmout of curiousity we bought some FPGAs from LCSC, they were like 1/3 the price of what we were quoted for a decent number from our normal distributorThere's probably nothing wrong with them, but the QR and date code were lasered off, I assume to obscure where they came frommaybe from someone who got a lot of them cheap under the condition of not selling any of them?

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2023, 12:06:34 am
content: FPGA companies are weird in a way they control distribution, so this is not unexpected. I've seen other reports of FPGAs with lasered off trace codes from different suppliers.I have not seen any credible reports of fake parts from LCSC. In my book they are as reliable as any other supplier.

author: phil from seattle
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2023, 10:53:31 pm
content: Yes, I've been using JLCPCB for about 5 years now and their prices are typically lower than LCSC. Now, the lower price is a bit illusory because they charge $3 for non-basic parts so in the case of, say 5 units, that STM part you actually pay $4.2810 + $3.00/5 or $4.881. They also frequently add a few extra for really small components - I forget the term. So if you have like 10 sot-23s, you get billed for 12 or 13. I did some spot checking a few years ago - when you look at larger volumes the prices with the non-basic surcharge and extras converge to pretty close to the LCSC price.Bottom line, you need to consider all in cost for each component. Or better yet, Look at the total BOM cost including the extra fees. I believe they do break out the non-basic surcharge and extra components cost.
[CDPNP] Tiny Open Source PnP Machine Upgrade: Nozzle and Chip Auto-Calibration - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dukelec
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2023, 03:45:49 am
content: I've posted a related post before:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/manufacture/(cdpnp)-tiny-semi-automatic-pnp-machine-support-0201-smt/Supported by the latest upgrade:- Automatic calibration of the distance from the primary camera to the nozzle rotation center;- Automatic calibration of the nozzle rotation error, and the distance from the secondary camera to the nozzle rotation center;- Automatic secondary calibration of picked-up components.The accuracy is also significantly improved when not using secondary calibration.There should be a bug in the old method of calculating rotation error.The rotation angle has been changed from an integer to a floating point number. The camera also changed to fixed exposure mode.(In the old code, there was also a problem with converting floats to integers, e.g. 1.9 was converted to 1.)Hardware changes are minimal: just remove the acrylic plate from the top of the secondary camera and move the secondary camera backlight to the top.Please watch with subtitles on:

author: trevwhite
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2023, 08:00:10 am
content: Has anyone bought or used one of these? The machine is a great idea. Haven’t seen any thing similar to it on the market.
T-962 mods- sealing, baffles and air stirrer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sinned6915
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 13, 2023, 11:02:37 pm
content: Greetings-Has anyone tried any of the mods that Jerry Walker discussed in his T-962 upgrade videos on youtube? This is the only one that seems to try and look at the issues in a systematic manner to analyze and correct the problems.Link- last video, quasi summary. There are 6 total.If you watch all 6 of the videos, his approach is quite analytic and breaks down the individual issues and his solutions to the problem. He has the proper gear to check stuff too- multi-channel temps, thermocouple temp calibration, etc…He solution was to :essentially sealed all the holes of the oven chamber, add a strip to seal the drawer better,added narrow baffles under each of the heaters to prevent a small region from getting heated directly under the heater tubes,added a baffle to the cooling fan at the rear to divert the air from blowing directly to the center of the drawer/boards,an air 'stirrer' at the top,and relocated the thermocouples.No firmware mods, no cold junction components, no nothing.His graphs and discussion seem to be logical and the solutions well founded.I am hoping to find someone who has tried this approach and get their feedback.Anyone try any of this?thankssinneD
Solder paste printer advice - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: liquidair
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 07, 2023, 04:48:18 pm
content: Hi everyone, I am in the process of setting up a small SMD assembly line. I just bought a T962C and intend to mod the snot out of it, and now I'm looking into solder paste printers. The problem is my boards can be rather large at 17"+ (432mm for all you metric types), so I have to factor that in, plus I may try to use the printer for silk screening as well.I'm between the 3040 'precision' models like this:https://www.charmhigh-tech.com/sale-7840305-high-precision-solder-paste-stencil-printer-3040-smt-manual-solder-paste-printer.html, and the basic ones like this so I can get a bigger surface area:https://www.charmhigh-tech.com/sale-7840306-bigger-size-manual-smt-stencil-printer-450-600mm-screen-printing-machine-4560.html. The other option is to make a homebrew version of some sort.I'd think with the 3040, despite it having a smaller working area, that one could get some longer aluminum support bars made to expand the working area. For the basic one, I feel like I recall some people saying that the working surface is too thin and bows making it useless.Does anyone have experience with either or both of these units who can share their experiences? Thank you!

author: Jackster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2023, 05:34:10 pm
content: I have both and the cheap bigger one is trash!The bed is not accurate at all. It is not flat and is impossible to print consistently over multiple boards.Your best bet is the 6040 and using the 2 long bars to support the board.I am actually working on an extension plate for this printer which will sit on top of the existing one and allow for bigger boards/panels to be done on it as the printer is really good.It is over 10mm thick aluminum plate and does not bend.Don't buy from Charmhigh. They are crocks.I use HUAQIZHENGBANG all the timeThey have it for sale here,https://www.aliexpress.com/item/33040322200

author: liquidair
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 07, 2023, 05:46:51 pm
content: Perfect, this is what I was looking for!I can't find it anymore but there was a link, perhaps it was Huaqizhengbang's website, where they had the usual 3040 and also bigger models (perhaps one was the 6040). Searching those part numbers didn't turn up any for sale, unfortunately. But maybe that's because its simple enough to add longer bars or a whole plate like you are doing.Good looking out on Charmhigh. I wasn't going to buy from them but its good to know!

author: meshtron
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2023, 09:12:00 pm
content: Quote from: Jackster on November 07, 2023, 05:34:10 pmThis is good to hear. I have one of their 3040 machines landing at the US port tomorrow, so hopefully see it in the next couple weeks.

author: liquidair
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 09, 2023, 03:58:41 am
content: Quote from: meshtron on November 08, 2023, 09:12:00 pmYup, I pulled the trigger on one as well based on Jackster's rec. Hopefully we both like them!
Question RE Moisture-Sensitive Components - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: meshtron
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2023, 08:25:55 pm
content: Most of my components are simple passives, but I have a few parts that are (according to their packaging) moisture sensitive:- LEDs- MCUs- One other IC chipI'm fine keeping those dry prior to board assembly, but I'm not clear on how to treat them after that. I'm assuming the moisture sensitivity has to do primarily with finishes on pads corroding and plastic(s) absorbing moisture that could "pop" during reflow. If that's true, the same plastics should have the same propensity to absorb moisture post-reflow, but the pads should all be covered.My product is used outside and will be in a IP67(ish) housing. Do I need to add a desiccant pack in the housing? Or a membrane to allow water to escape when heated? I can't "pot" my board because it has switches and terminals that need to remain accessible and operative. I also have copper pours that I'm using to dissipate heat so any coating on the board would inhibit that.I might be pondering an issue that doesn't exist, but thought I'd ask.

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2023, 08:44:46 pm
content: The issue with absorbed moisture is that it start to boil inside the device while soldering. Once soldered, it does not matter.If you are worried about any moisture-related issues, then simple conformal coating will address most of those. And connectors are usually not a problem, you can temporarily cover them. And in mass production there is a way to apply conformal coating to the parts of the PCB.

author: meshtron
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2023, 02:23:10 am
content: Quote from: ataradov on October 29, 2023, 08:44:46 pmThanks! That all makes sense. I will keep an eye out during testing to see if there's any issues I need to address and stop worrying about it for the time being.
Announcement: Improved "SMT Assistant" Release – named EigerPKP (Free) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Eigerdesign
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2023, 06:08:22 pm
content: Dear EEVBlogOur company used the great "free" SMT Assistant software for many years, however it became restrictive for some assemblies we made. We reached out to the guys at ALCIOM and they release he source code and we have extended its function as below:- Project Mode (optional) to save configuration and images.- Menu with multiple preferences- Added Part number and Description fields (older Package and Value remain)- Simpler CSV file format- Graphical marker for placed, skipped and calibration points.- Easier Calibration process, including dropdown component IDs, markers and micro nudging- Calibration remains when rotated and flipped- Alternative image view for pictures or instruction to assist the operator.- Component placed, skipped and unplaced counters.- Bottom and Top Separate and holds calibration when changing between layers.- Teach Mode (work in process) to make own PKP files from Images.We will make the initial release of the software on Monday 23rd October and will be available for free at the below link:www.eigerdesign.com/EigerPKPWe are still debugging some features but will try to test over the weekend and Monday. The website has some screen shots, we hope people will adopt this over time, it free with no catches.Any feedback is welcome.Many RegardsTony Jay

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2023, 03:36:35 pm
content: Looks pretty neat! Are image files the only option for the board view? Gerber import would be a nice option to have.
PCBWay Boards Faulty - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: samsamm777
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2023, 02:16:23 pm
content: I've had quite a few boards made over the years by chinese fab houses, and i've never had any problems. I've felt comfortable designing and get 2 and 4 layer boards fabricated for various little projects I have. I'm just a hobbyist. I use KiCad for all my PCB CAD work.I've recently had some boards made by PCBWay, which the 5V plane shorts to GND. I often put test pads on my boards, so I immidiately found the fault on a blank PCB. So I went to check my gerbers, and CADs to see where I'd made a mistake, but i simply cannot find anywhere on my gerbers where the 5V plane is connected to the GND plane.I've raised a dispute with PCBWay but their explaination of where the issue is doesn't make much sense to me.QuoteIm at a bit of a loss. I wonder if anywould be so kind to take a look at my gerbers and see if there is anything obvious which i've missed.https://github.com/samsamm777/rgb-stand-gerbersRequired Info:The 5V plane is the outer polygon on `RGB Keeb Stand-In2_Cu.gbr`. (the inner polygon is 3v3).GND plane is `RGB Keeb Stand-In1_Cu.gbr`Thanks in advance.

author: newto
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2023, 03:29:20 pm
content: Bottom right you have a plated through hole with a circle around it and a GND labelled on the silkscreen. It doesn't have a gap in the 5V layer, so it's shorted there. You could try drilling that out to see if it gets rid of the short (there may be others, but that's the first I saw)

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2023, 03:43:07 pm
content: did you run DRC?

author: samsamm777
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2023, 03:59:03 pm
content: Quote from: langwadt on October 19, 2023, 03:43:07 pmYes indeed. Only have some courtyard overlap errors, nothing worth noting.Quote from: newto on October 19, 2023, 03:29:20 pmYou are right. Looks like it could be the cause of the problem. Now to understand why KiKad has stitched me up! Its just a test point, so why it would generate gerbers like that i dont quite understand. Maybe a bug? Who knows.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2023, 09:01:51 pm
content: Post some screenshots if you figure out why or why not.Sounds like the DRC should repour all polygons, not repouring is a typical way you'd short planes together by accident.

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2023, 09:18:34 pm
content: Quote from: thm_w on October 19, 2023, 09:01:51 pmthe DRC window has tickbox for "Repour all zones before preforming DRC"

author: Whales
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2023, 10:08:07 pm
content: Perhaps your schematic has GND and 5V tied somewhere? Perhaps traces underneath a part?
Black UV paint/solder mask - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: gaminn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2023, 11:36:58 am
content: Hi,I purchased cheap black UV solder mask in syringe from AliExpress. I noticed that this paint/ink isn't able to dry naturally, it only hardens when exposed to UV light.Is there any UV solder mask that can dry naturally, so I can put my artwork on it, expose it and then wash away areas where the solder mask is not expected to be?

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2023, 02:50:55 pm
content: I lot of UV-cured polymers will cure with very near UVA (i.e., 395nm or there about). They may give 365nm as optimal, but the band is wide. Ordinary fluorescent bulbs and even strong incandescent bulbs will emit 395nm. Of course, so do UV LEDshttps://www.waveformlighting.com/tech/what-is-the-difference-between-365-nm-and-395-nm-uv-led-lightsIn theory, one could make a light-curable polymer that works with anything in the visible, but the market for that is probably very small. If you are up to an experiment, you could add a small amount of catalyst for polyester fiberglass/"Bondo" (e.g., MEKP) and the peroxide might be enough to initiate cure. If you do that, the curing might happen quite quickly.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2023, 08:52:32 pm
content: What you are saying doesn't make sense. You want to expose it to cure it, so what part will be drying naturally? The part that wasn't exposed with UV?Note: do not wash with water or down the drain, often these are very toxic.

author: abeyer
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2023, 10:49:24 pm
content: Quote from: thm_w on October 17, 2023, 08:52:32 pmI think OP wants a formulation that can air dry on the surface before curing, so that an artwork mask on transparency can be laid directly on it before curing with uv.Something like the uv sensitive dry film resist or soldermask would be ideal, if you could find it, but I've never seen a black one in film form.

author: aeg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2023, 10:50:17 pm
content: It sounds like you want LPI soldermask. Also, it sounds like youhaveLPI soldermask.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2023, 11:24:51 pm
content: Yeah, probably they don't know the proper process or something..

author: gaminn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2023, 08:40:27 am
content: I used to work withhttps://www.sunchemical.com/product/soldermask/.You screen print whole PCB, let it dry (some heat helps), then you put your artwork on your pcb, expose it and then you wash away unexposed parts. Unfortunately I don't have access to these inks anymore.That trick with plastic foil spreading the ink is not ideal. With the foil, he is creating 0.1mm gap between the pcb and the artwork and that is exactly what you don't want to happen when you are exposing it.
Autotronik BS384 upgrade? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: carlospdl
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 19, 2023, 01:09:53 am
content: Hi all.Actually, our Autotronik BS384 runs Windows 2000 OS and 10+ years old internal pc.Someone knows if it would be possible to upgrade internal pc and OS?It would be possible to run OpenPnP software?Thank you in advance.

author: kinero
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2023, 05:23:53 pm
content: I believe the last supported package on these machines was based for Windows XP. You could theoretically attempt to run the SMT software in compatibility mode on a newer OS, but you would need to ensure the other hardware drivers (motion control, image capture, I/O, etc), are functioning properly.

author: jayx
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2023, 09:32:40 pm
content: Win XP was the latest available system, and the PC is not quite standard so not easy to upgrade either.Someone planned to use OpenPnP to drive similar machine but I don't think he got anywhere with it:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/manufacture/my-manncorp-mc-400-conversion-to-openpnp/msg4020568/#msg4020568

author: trampas
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2023, 03:09:29 pm
content: I have a MC391V running XP, I do not connect to network and just use USB flash drives. My thought is that if it works don't fix it...
Pete Rondeau's boutique manufacturing shed. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MT
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2023, 04:50:24 pm
content: Pete showing how a typical manufacturing round looks like in his very nice boutique (small volume semi hand made) shop.

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2023, 03:36:13 pm
content: Fascinating! I did some similar anodized boxes a few years ago, and the anodizing destroyed my solid carbide end mills. I got about 2 connector holes milled per end mill. How did you get around that? Was it all a speed/feed trick that I got wrong?As for the P&P, I bought a used Philips CSM84 in 2007, with the centering jaws on the head. Very similar to the head on your machine, but the exterior looked quite different. It was not accurate enough for 0.5 and 0.65 mm lead pitch parts, and I had some square ICs that the jaws would not center properly. It needed "oblong" parts for the jaws to fully close and center the part. That machine did not have the vision feature.In 2020, I upgraded to a Quad/Samsung QSA30A from an auction in Austin, TX. The machine had been messed with by monkeys, and had a lot of failed modules. But, I eventually got it running properly. It can mount parts down to 0.5mm pitch with no difficulty. It has side-looking cameras that view the shadow cast by the part as it is being carried from the feeder to the board. The manuals were AWFUL, but I got hooked up with the guy who did the factory training, he was a HUGE help.My shop is all in my home basement.JonJon
ZelFlow RO4 Reflow Oven rebuild - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: wrickert
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 16, 2023, 02:39:06 pm
content: Hello Everyone,I've been tasked with rebuilding our ZelFlow RO4 Reflow Oven, like this onehttps://www.smtresource.com/listings/1347616-used-lpkf-zelflow-ro4-batch-ovenApparently at some point in the near past (but before I was with the company) it overshot the temp on the reflow curve and damaged the top insulation. It now gets much warmer on top then before.Do I need to remove the old insulation or just add another layer?I was planning on using the suggestions given by the Whizoo Controleo3 for selections of Insulation sheet and Hi-temp silicone adheasive. Does anyone have any more tips?Thanks!
Via Hole Sizes for General Purposes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: botvink
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 07, 2023, 07:07:41 am
content: Hello friends,I have been sending few PCBs at JLCpcb and generally 0.4mm inner hole and 0.8mm outer diameter What do you think of Via? For general PCBs, in what dimensions do you produce them without deteriorating the PCB quality? I newly started to 4 layer PCB designing, but with this big Vias it is little harder to route sometimes. I am curious about am I enlarging outer diameter to 0.8mm much..?

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 07, 2023, 07:19:39 am
content: I generally use 13 mil/26 mil (0.3 mm / 0.66 mm). It is the smallest they will do without extra charges. And the quality is pretty much the same as long as values are within the states capabilities.

author: Smokey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 07, 2023, 08:40:31 am
content: I was a 15/30mil guy forever, but I've been doing 12/24mil recently for most stuff.Yes, I know 12mil = 0.3048mm, but I just select 0.3mm from the quote screens and I haven't had the price increase or anyone push back on that even when they ask other technical questions and clarifications about the design (both JLCPCB and PCBWay).They may be just using 0.3mm drills, which is fine with me (0.18mil undersized in this case).

author: HwAoRrDk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 07, 2023, 09:04:34 am
content: I'm sure I remember reading that both JLCPCB and PCBWay only use metric drill sizes, and just round to the nearest 0.05 mm.

author: DavidAlfa
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 07, 2023, 09:18:43 am
content: Just read theircapabilities!QuoteI used that plenty of times, it went fine.

author: luudee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 07, 2023, 04:29:05 pm
content: I agree with DavidAlfa !I always use the smallest vias they can make for signals - read their Capabilities !!!Anything that carries power, I calculate or use a EWAG ...Best Regards,rudi

author: asmi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 07, 2023, 04:41:47 pm
content: I use 0.3/0.5 mm vias unless I need to use smaller ones (like for BGA escapes). The smallest one I used are 0.2/0.35 mm, because there is a sizeable jump in price at JLCPCB between 0.2 mm and 0.15 mm drills. Technically JLCPCB says they can make 0.05 mm annual ring (so via size is only 0.1 mm larger than drill size), but they recommend at least 0.075 mm ring, and so I follow those recommendations whenever I can.

author: Smokey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 07, 2023, 08:55:02 pm
content: One thing to note here should be that the plating on vias is typically less than the copper weight for the layer.So if you spec 1oz outer copper, don't expect your vias to be plated through with 1oz. I'm sure that gets worse as you go down in via hole sizes.
Are ALL RoHS Compliant SMDs Moisture Sensitive? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: NY2KW
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2023, 10:50:25 pm
content: I am a hobbyist who likes to build and repair. I read that lead-free solder is more prone to moisture degradation. Today I received a few RF switches (HMC1118, Analog Dev) from Mouser that came double-bagged with big label warning the chips were Moisture Sensitive and gave specs that it should be mounted with "168 hours" after bag is opened AND if Humidity Indicator Card reads >10% the SMD should get baked per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-033 specs .I pulled the datasheet and it does not mention anything about moisture sensitivity or special handling. Is this a Mouser liability disclaimer or something broader along RoHS guidelines?Jerry NY2KW

author: TimFox
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2023, 11:20:22 pm
content: I believe that the short lifespan out of the sealed package is because the metal surfaces (to be soldered by SMT processes) become polluted in a moist atmosphere, and the solder may not stick.

author: Jackster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2023, 11:25:40 pm
content: Pretty much all IC packages are sensitive to moisture and should be shipped in such a bag.As far as I know, the plastics love to soak in water.Here are the standardshttps://www.surfacemountprocess.com/uploads/5/4/1/9/54196839/j-std-033b01.pdf

author: Infraviolet
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2023, 10:15:36 pm
content: To my understanding, certainly from my experience, for small scale hobbyist use, if you're soldering with wire solder and an iron, or with applying paste solder then using either an iron tip or precisely aimed hot air gun to heat it, you'll probably get away with ignoring the moisture warnings so long as you keep parts in the bag and reseal it with some wrappings of tape between uses. Things would be more problemtic at industrial scale, and with any soldering process where the whole board gets heated during soldering.Also, I think some sellers might just stock that one sort of bag with moisture warnings as the packaging in which they'll ship anything ESD sensitive. They might not bother to have any bag in stock for ESD protection but which doesn't carry the moisture warning. That said, I think some parts which are moisture sensitive don't warn so on their datasheets. I hear all SMD LEDs are strongly moisture sensitive, but I've often seeen datasheets for specific models of them which make no mention of moisture.

author: aeg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2023, 02:20:06 am
content: Quote from: NY2KW on October 04, 2023, 10:50:25 pmDoes page 11 of your copy of the datasheet not say the part is MSL3?

author: aeg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2023, 02:20:55 am
content: Quote from: TimFox on October 04, 2023, 11:20:22 pmFalse. MSL is due to popcorning, not solderability.
"flower pot" holder for vertcial axial resistor? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2023, 06:27:47 pm
content: Hi,We have a 3W ROX3SJ100k resistor we want to mount vertical , and we dont want it flopping sideways to the capacitors nearby.There is a shallow kind of "flower pot" with a hole in the bottom for mounting them, but i cant find it, do you know where it is on the web?

author: BreakingOhmsLaw
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 01, 2023, 06:42:27 pm
content: https://www.digikey.de/en/products/filter/terminals/pc-pin-receptacles-socket-connectors/324

author: Matt-Brown
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2023, 01:54:41 pm
content: something likehttps://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/essentra-components/LEDS1-10-26/3813862?utm_adgroup=General&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=PMax%20Shopping_Product_Zombie%20SKUs&utm_term=&utm_content=General&utm_id=go_cmp-17815035045_adg-_ad-__dev-c_ext-_prd-3813862_sig-Cj0KCQjwmvSoBhDOARIsAK6aV7gFpLjT3P3VUmj0cntmagCmfO8A8ZSW3qM6ducucxf42BNlFdA1CCIaAufOEALw_wcB&gclid=Cj0KCQjwmvSoBhDOARIsAK6aV7gFpLjT3P3VUmj0cntmagCmfO8A8ZSW3qM6ducucxf42BNlFdA1CCIaAufOEALw_wcB
Solder Paste and Stencil - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: suftahat
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 02, 2023, 05:46:12 pm
content: I would like to know about the specific type of solder paste that should be employed for the assembly of CABGA228 components, which have a sphere diameter of 12 mils and a pitch of 0.5 mm. Additionally, I'm interested in receiving guidance on the recommended dimensions for the stencil. Can you provide assistance with this inquiry?