hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Can I ask a bit of a home theater question?  Need a S/PDIF "splitter"...  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cvanc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 01:12:45 am
content: I have an optical Toslink output that I need to feed to *two* different destinations simultaneously. Both destinations only have coax/RCA S/PDIF inputs. So I need some little box with one optical input and two identical coax/RCA outputs.Please note I do not want to convert to analog. I need digital in and digital out. Just need to convert from fiber to copper and have two outputs instead of one.Anyone know of such a thing? I'd hate to daisy-chain several adapters to do such a simple task, but I am not finding what I need in any of the usual places (Monoprice, etc).Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.

author: jeroen79
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 01:38:20 am
content: A google for 'toslink splitter' gives a lot of results.They come as passive splitters where there are just multiple fibres coming out of the input.And there are powered/active variants where the input is a phototransistor connected to a buffer IC which then drives the outputs which are leds.

author: KhronX
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 01:43:47 am
content: Are you looking to buy, or to DIY?Since commercial converters seem to be, in most cases, 1-to-1, DIY might just be your best bet.http://files.slashorg.net/dev/elec/digital1.htmThe 3rd schematic is what you want. Parallel the "a" and "b" buffers with the "d-e-f" ones, and use another 74HC04 in an identical fashion for the 2nd coax output.You will, of course, need a 5v supply for the circuitry, as well as an optical receiver

author: NiHaoMike
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 06:01:22 am
content: Build it with some extra outputs. It costs next to nothing to do and helps future proof the adapter.

author: cvanc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 09:38:58 pm
content: As much fun as it'd be to roll my own solution, it's not an option. I've got too many projects waiting in line already. Really hoping to find an off the shelf answer.Does anyone know if simply paralleling the two RCA cables will work? I honestly don't know what impedances are involved with coax S/PDIF...

author: KhronX
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 09:52:45 pm
content: Most likely you'd need at least three pieces of equipment (likely each with their own power supply / wall-wart).Either some sort of optical splitter, and two toslink-to-coax converters, or just one of those plus a coax splitter/buffer.Me, i'd rather just roll my own, but i'm biased

author: cvanc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 08:43:03 pm
content: Thanks all for the suggestions. For the record I tried an RCA 'Y' cable and just paralleled the 2 loads. Both destinations seem happy and sound fine to me. (so much for impedance matching, eh?)
The same old work and energy confusion - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MrOmnos
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 01:28:12 pm
content: Hi folks!I am studying for my Thermodynamics test and I stumbled upon this thought. If I lift up an iron ball up to some height then potential energy in the ball will be mgh which is also the work i did in lifting up the ball. Now if I heat it up I'll be adding energy to the ball and the ball will have more energy. As far as I know heat is not energy but analogous to work. Applying heat means doing work on the system. In both cases of lifting up the ball and heating the ball, it seems like work and energy are the same thing. But we all know it's not. Do not confuse work with energy is the first thing they tell you in a physics class and then proceed to write the equation of potential energy which is exactly the same for the work. Which is quite confusing.So, what makes 'Work" a thing?To be more specific about what I am asking here:We need fractions because we need answer to the question 2x=3. We need the concept of complex number because we know we can't solve all polynomials with just real numbers. And we know complex numbers aren't just something that exists on paper, they have actual physical meaning.So, Why do we need 'work' as a concept if at the end of the day we are just going to call it energy. It just sounds redundant. Forgive me if I am wrong. I am just trying to learn.

author: edy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 02:09:26 pm
content: Some explanations are found here :https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Work_(physics)Quote

author: R005T3r
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 04:26:23 pm
content: Quote from: MrOmnos on January 19, 2017, 01:28:12 pmTo answer your first question, heat is not an intrinsic propriety of matter. An object does not have a certain "heat" level, but you can measure it's temperature...Think about Heat as a "protocol" for transferring energy from a hotter to a cooler object.Complex numbers are a way to represent numbers when you merge the concept of real number with points on a plain. And, I know there are some integrals, that have functions and variables in real numbers, and they give a complex result, but the area beneath the graph, is visible!We need "work" as a concept at the end of the day, because, work is a simple tool to work in certain situations. Can you use power or energy to solve problems? Yes, if you want, but it will be more complex.
Where to buy it - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Jane
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 06:01:41 am
content: Does anyone know where to buy a dongle that measures current? Like that in the picture?

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 06:04:33 am
content: Try doing a search onUSB METER.... and take it from there.They're all over the place. Different styles and different capabilities.

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 06:24:24 am
content: eBay search for "USB power meter". I personally like and use this onehttp://www.ebay.com/itm/LCD-Dual-USB-Charger-Mobile-Power-Detector-Voltage-Current-Meter-Tester-Monitor-/192055880792Having a cable makes it far less clumsy.

author: ebclr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 06:31:13 am
content: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Black-USB-Current-Voltage-Tester-Meter-USB-Voltage-Ammeter-USB-Detector-Double-Row-Shows-New/32402309405.html?spm=2114.30010308.3.29.pE8oaR&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_2_10065_10068_10000009_10000032_10084_10000025_10083_10080_10000029_10082_10081_10000028_10110_10111_10060_10112_10113_10062_10114_10115_10056_10055_10037_10054_10059_10032_10099_10078_10079_10000022_10077_10000012_10103_10073_10102_10000015_10096_10000018_10000019_10052_10053_10107_10050_10106_10051-10102,searchweb201603_2,afswitch_3_afChannel,single_sort_3_default&btsid=cf50b980-24e4-4d90-8cc3-6ba2c35b25b3

author: kripton2035
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 07:34:51 am
content: you also have better one than the picture you show. they are more expensive, around $40 but worth the pricedepends on what you want to do with it. I have the one pictured in the first post, it's really cheap bought on ebaybut it's also not very readable, not practice (you often end with reading upside-down), is surely not calibrated, but it does the jobanother better one :http://www.ebay.com/itm/201517862132
Fluke 87 Clear Case - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Excavatoree
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2010, 02:57:27 am
content: I didn't know these existed, until I saw this one on E-bay. I had to buy it for my collection. It was just a case, I added my own 87-5. The lens was "pre scratched" so I could avoid being the one to put the first scratch on it. First, the front:The shield prevents you from seeing anything - all you see are fuses, really. The LCD mask is clear, so you also get a view of the Zebra strips.On to the back:We're mooned again. A great view of the battery, beeper, and some screws. All you can see is the metal shield - ineffective against GSM, but pretty opaque to visible light.The effect is that of a silver meter - kind of cool.

author: williefleete
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2010, 07:10:38 am
content: *gasm* that is epic cool, you should attach it to a surge generator and watch the internal parts when it blows

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 07, 2010, 10:01:00 am
content: I think it started out very limited, with only units being given away in contests or something, but then they decided to sell it on the regular market.Although cool to look at, I don't think I'd actually want to use one daily!Dave.

author: Time
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2010, 08:30:45 pm
content: I'd like to see what it looks like in the yellow shock absorber thing.

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2010, 08:32:24 pm
content: Yes, I think the clear model ran for a very short time, <= 1 year, maybe a collector's item.

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2010, 11:30:26 pm
content: This thread moves away from the technical part , and gets in to style " part " !!I am a bit old fashion , and I dislike it .... simple as that

author: TopherTheME
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2010, 03:36:45 am
content: I'd put LEDs in it and have it change color depending on what mode its in.

author: a soBer Newt
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 10, 2010, 02:19:29 am
content: Quote from: TopherTheME on December 08, 2010, 03:36:45 amI think that would make it 1000x better than it already is.

author: SG-1
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2010, 07:26:47 am
content: It is just too naked looking. Maybe a TSA case ??

author: samgab
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 02:11:41 am
content: Sorry to resurrect an old thread, but I think this is really cool. The topic came up as a result of the freshly posted YouTube video of DAVE's 3D printed clear dmm prototype, and TIL that this was a thing. Wish I could get a hold of one.
SparkFun's IOT Stuffed Animal - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: RandomTask
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 08:21:37 pm
content: Animatronic Chucky doll anyone?

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 18, 2017, 03:13:30 am
content: IOT Tuesday?

author: rrinker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2017, 08:00:40 pm
content: Looks like a rabbit to me.....

author: Red Squirrel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2017, 08:54:27 pm
content: Sadly I could see something like this sell, would be cloud based and the eyes would be cameras. What could possibly go wrong.

author: iaeen
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2017, 09:10:50 pm
content: Well, this is certainly a creepy way to stalk your niece...

author: Halcyon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 18, 2017, 09:30:11 pm
content: Quote from: iaeen on January 18, 2017, 09:10:50 pmNot nearly as creepy as this hidden camera/microphone recording device:
Tektronix SW download bullshit - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: halexa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 07:42:09 am
content: Went to Tektronix site to download new firmware to our scope so it can handle more then 1Gig USB sticks.After registration I got stuck on this bullshit. I ask my self WHY???

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 08:01:20 am
content: How is it Tek fault that US laws are ass backwards?

author: nowlan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 10:46:02 am
content: Youd think they could verify YOU on creating an account or registration.

author: halexa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 11:12:50 am
content: My though also, but I understand that this is not a thing that Tektronix has made up.

author: onesixright
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 11:39:17 am
content: Quote from: nowlan on January 17, 2017, 10:46:02 amThen could (should?) But you can move, and its about export of technology, i think, and hen they need to check that for each download? Nevertheless cumbersome.

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 12:57:41 pm
content: Some Tektronix oscilloscopes are covered under US export laws (ITAR?) because of their performance and military applications. I have read that this is the reason their real time spectrum analyzers and MDOs have update rates limited in firmware unless you are approved by the government.

author: 1xrtt
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 04:08:29 pm
content: TI.com also have restrictions to software download. Every time, I have to fill up a questionnaire that boils down to "I comply to export laws".But once I click the OK button, it immediately gets me to download page and emails the URL.So, I believe it is the same law, maybe each company chose differently how to implement the controls?

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 05:21:56 pm
content: Quote from: 1xrtt on January 17, 2017, 04:08:29 pmDepends on how different lawyers read the same text, I guess. And also how much risk they are willing to accept in case if reading is wrong.
Linearity from the 1950's - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: woodchips
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 04:18:26 pm
content: Photos of a pot from some piece of aircraft navigation equipment from the 1950's. Can't at the moment remember what it came from.As you can see it is a pretty normal wirewound pot, until you look closer and realise the circle of screws is in fact a set of trimmers to slightly adjust the position of the wiper to correct for linearity errors in the resistence winding. The greased track has a follower which acts through 90 degrees to push the wiper mounting frame side to side. To those who have used a boring machine, it is a similar arrangement used to linearise the machine scales.An impressive piece of engineering, wonder what it cost. Now replaced by an optical encoder and an EPROM. Such is progress.

author: calexanian
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 02:04:33 am
content: Pretty good looking. However I wonder what the people who made that would think of a modern hall effect sensor or optical encoder with no moving contact to wear out. Still a really nice piece of engineering.

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 02:38:31 am
content: I have a bunch of polyvaricons (inexpensive variable capacitors) which internally are quite complicated - despite their low price they have extensive adjustment capability so each of the capacitance ranges can be fine tuned. Its common for variable capacitors used in analog radios, even current models to have fine adjustments so that their tuning matches the markings on the dial..
Transistor Full Documentary - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 03:17:46 pm
content: https://youtu.be/U4XknGqr3Bo

author: iampoor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 06:42:51 pm
content: This documentary is really biased!Looking forward to watching it. Looks rad.

author: calexanian
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 04:09:11 pm
content: Watched it the other day. It was pretty good. Read "The Idea Factory" for a more in depth story.

author: JoeN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 10:09:48 pm
content: Watched. Good stuff.

author: timb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 11:51:47 pm
content: Wow, that was pretty good. I never knew how small Shockley's role in the discovery of the Point-Contact Transistor actually was. That said, he was on the right track initially with the field-effect transistor, and he *did* end up (very quickly as it turns out) building on the point-contact device to create the NPN sandwich which could be reliably manufactured and packaged.So I'd say ultimately he deserves equal credit.
PCB tracks into connector, is called what? :o - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: onesixright
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 03:07:10 pm
content: Hey Guys,If i want to make a PCB that i can push into a connector (like a PCI card), does that have a specific name? Whats the name of the connector?Thanks!

author: MarkF
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 05:08:53 pm
content: Sullins is one manufacturer that makes what you want.http://www.sullinscorp.com/

author: onesixright
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 08:06:52 pm
content: Awesome, thanks!Any idea how you create the "golden fingers" in kicad?(its just a footprint)I saw a few of these "edge connectors" on aliexpress and ebay. But all they mention is the pitch. To create your own you need a bit more i assume? Any idea if these are standard sizes ?

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 01:43:58 am
content: Quote from: blueskull on January 16, 2017, 01:12:48 amI would go with this recommendation. No use re-inventing the wheel (unless you need to factor in quantum gravity, superposition and chewing gum stuck under the table).You can then look up specifications to do your board layout - like this one for PCIe:

author: helius
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 04:33:08 am
content: Edge connector fingers should be plated with hard gold. This may involve an additional charge from the PCB fab as this is an extra step.ENIG is not thick or hard enough for edge connectors.

author: JoeN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 04:58:34 am
content: Quote from: helius on January 16, 2017, 04:33:08 amCertainly not for a commercial product. For a one-off hobby card, wouldn't it work? Would the gold be damaged badly enough by a half dozen insertions/removal cycles for it to matter?

author: Spikee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 07:24:50 am
content: Worked on a commercial project that is a plug in card in a garbage truck. They never use "Hard gold" even after 50 plugs the conctact is stil fine.

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 09:44:04 am
content: For a one-off hobby card, even bare copper would work for a while. The question is - how long is long enough?
USB Firewire adaptor? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2016, 04:38:39 pm
content: Has anyone found a Firewire adaptor that attaches to the PC with USB. I have an old camera but the new PC does not support it.

author: NiHaoMike
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2016, 04:40:15 pm
content: Just get a 1394 card?

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2016, 04:51:50 pm
content: I have a slot left and was going to use it to install another USB card to see if it effects the problems I have seen with the Signal Hound. If that doesn't work, this is an option.

author: Monkeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2016, 05:09:39 pm
content: Quote from: joeqsmith on December 27, 2016, 04:51:50 pmSo do both.http://www.ebay.com/itm/Adaptec-PCI-USB-Firewire-Combo-card-7-PORT-4-USB-3-Firewire-1394-AUA-3121-/112222809442?hash=item1a21002d62:g:pxcAAOSwMVFXIRf-

author: Ampera
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2016, 06:18:11 pm
content: Long story short: No.I don't think they were ever made.

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2016, 08:01:37 pm
content: Quote from: Monkeh on December 27, 2016, 05:09:39 pmI have been looking for a card like that! Signal Hound needs USB 3, and one PCIe 16X slot open.

author: Monkeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 28, 2016, 01:55:16 am
content: Quote from: joeqsmith on December 27, 2016, 08:01:37 pmhttps://www.amazon.com/Sonnet-Firewire-Adapter-Components-FW8USB3A/dp/B00NAKZRI2

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 28, 2016, 02:26:04 am
content: Bingo! It's on order.

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 07:22:51 pm
content: This card arrived a while back but I have been testing my Signal Hound with another USB board I had bought. I plugged it in today and installed the CD that was included. No drivers at all. I look in device manager, it had figured everything out without asking.I am running some tests now with the BB60C while attempting to download a video from my old camera and it actually seems to work! Very nice find. Thanks!

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 07:59:00 pm
content: Quote from: joeqsmith on December 27, 2016, 04:38:39 pmAs an aside, I am not even sure if a USB to FireWirecouldbe made. AFAIK, FireWire requires DMA, and I don't think USB has that ability. I could be wrong, though.For sure, a card like the one you've ordered is the very best option.
Exporting (Shipping) an oscilloscope from the USA , help needed - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mozee
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 05:35:51 pm
content: Hello FolksI bought an Oscilloscope in the USA and I would like to send It to a friend living in Bahrain. I would like to ship it using DHL and all I have right now is the Oscilloscope and It's box no papers nothing! What are the regulations? has anyone tried shipping an oscilloscope internationally? what about customs and other fees etc..Thank you

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 09:53:18 pm
content: On ordinary scopes, there are no export restrictions (I think there are some once you get into advanced microwave gear). As for import regulations to Bahrain, you'll have to ask someone there -- it's different for every country.

author: ebclr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 10:05:58 pm
content: Simple shiphttp://2016.export.gov/FTA/bahrain/eg_main_017537.asp

author: Benta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 11:37:20 pm
content: QuoteForget that.DHL has no presence in the US, and use the US Postal service. Tracking is nonexistentDHL Express is another story, perhaps you mean them? That's OK.Otherwise UPS or FedEx

author: shteii01
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 11:48:51 pm
content: DHL USA:http://www.dhl-usa.com/en.htmlDHL USA Key Facts:http://www.dhl-usa.com/en/country_profile/key_facts.htmlI like the 1969 date.Quote from: Benta on January 15, 2017, 11:37:20 pm

author: Mozee
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 10:12:36 am
content: Thank you guys. What I'm asking about is the US regulations and laws! I've got the Rigol DS1054Z is what to be shipped, now are there any regulations or restrictions on shipping this piece of equipment? Do I need any special paperwork for that or tax or fees whatever??

author: Benta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 03:24:44 pm
content: QuoteYes, and that's exactly what I wrote:DHL Expressis OK."Normal" DHL cooperates with USPS in that states.
6250 bpi magnetic tape data recovery - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: android
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 01:15:07 pm
content: I know this is a long shot, but is there anyone on the forum (preferably in Sydney, Australia) that has any ability to recover data from some old 6250bpi half inch round mag tapes that I have? ...from the late 1980's...sentimental value only.

author: Halcyon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2017, 08:26:21 am
content: Out of curiousity, what kind of tape is it? Pics?

author: woodchips
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2017, 08:54:47 am
content: Have you tried the HP museum which is in Australia? They have a wide range of old computer kit.

author: @rt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2017, 09:33:41 am
content: For anyone else like me who was wondering:http://www.columbia.edu/cu/computinghistory/media/media3.jpg

author: android
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 12:54:45 am
content: Quote from: woodchips on January 13, 2017, 08:54:47 amThanks for that, I'll make some enquiries.I did get a kind offer to do the job for free from a guy in the USA but I was put off by the shipping costs. Since then I've been daydreaming (emphasis on fantasy) about the possibility of making my own reader that reads the magnetic encoding but at very low speed (maybe weeks for one tape) and piece it all back together later using software.FWIW, I've attached pics of my stash

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 04:09:00 am
content: I was reminded of card skimmers using heads from audio tape players, but then I looked it up and magstripe cards are only 210bpi. Floppy drive heads might be able to handle the density.

author: albert22
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 04:47:42 pm
content: It has been decades since I worked with those tapes.You will need a 9 track head to read the tape. Or perhaps a combination of single track heads and a method of deskewing the tracks. Although it seems very difficult at 6250bpi, IRCC you can take advantage of horizontal and vertical parity to valid the data you get.
Current state of battery technology - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MrOmnos
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2017, 03:41:49 pm
content: I working on a project and I was in need a of a small form factor battery but I was not able to find one. Until I noticed my old my pink NOKIA express music slider phone which I don't used anymore. So I charged it and turns out it still works. It's a BP-5M battery which was used in quite a few models of NOKIA. I still remember as a teenager I would sleep with earplugs in my ear blasting sweet music and when I woke up in the morning it would have lost 1-2 bars of battery which was quite impressive.Which makes me think we mostly take batteries for granted. I know absolutely nothing about batteries but I use them every day in my projects. So, I have decided to start a discussion on batteries. Anyone working in battery industry or anyone with knowledge on batteries,where are we today when it comes to batteries? What's the power to weight ratio? How long will it last? How expensive? What are the promising advanced in the fields? What can we expect in the future?
weird network behavior, am I being hacked? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MrOmnos
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 11:24:14 am
content: So, I was browsing internet on my laptop using chrome and suddenly everything except YouTube stopped working. I was not able to open any other site except YouTube. I use wifi and share internet with 2 other room mates. First I thought it must be the network so, I asked my friend whom I share my internet with, he was able to load sites my browser was not loading. Then I suspected it must be chrome, so opened IE and it wasn't working either. Only site I was able open was YouTube. SO, I restarted my laptop and everything was back to normal again.Anyone has any idea what can cause something like that? Am I being hacked?

author: Ampera
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 12:24:45 pm
content: Sounds like the worst hacker ever.No, your not, in no way, shape, form, or level of possibility are you being "Hacked". If you were, you'd likely experience a brick instead of a bug.Not to mention PC's aren't easy to straight up head in and hack. It can be done, but it's not something your average Joe can do. (I sure can't)It's a bug, Windows just screws up occasionally and does some weird shit. It's possible that the DHCP client bugged out and refused to negotiate a new IP. If it happens again, give yourself a DHCP reservation on your router, and set your computer to always manually connect using that IP, netmask, gateway, DNS, etc. DHCP is normally pretty cool, but it can bug out from time to time.

author: madires
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 01:05:55 pm
content: Most likely a DNS problem. That could be simply a windows hiccup or something playing with DNS. If it happens again please check the DNS settings via the command shell and try to resolve a few FQDNs (ping/nslookup). There are several known attacks trying to change the nameservers.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 04:28:39 pm
content: Yeah, DNS. If it's not a network outage, then it's probably something like DNS cache. Flush that (I forget what command) and you'll probably get back.Or reboot, which will refresh everything.Tim

author: Halcyon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 06:51:52 pm
content: Quote from: T3sl4co1l on January 15, 2017, 04:28:39 pmipconfig /flushdnsat the command prompt. Sounds like a DNS glitch as others have already pointed out. Something could be misconfigured either in your router or on your machine. I occasionally get issues with web browsers refusing to load anything, but closing all the windows and re-opening fixes that, it only happen to me at work so it's probably just something on that machine.I'd also check Antivirus (especially those that have web filtering and all that other "safety" stuff), they are a common cause of random issues. If it happens again, disable the AV and see if that fixes the issue (without a reboot).
what pi should i buy - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sony mavica
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 14, 2017, 09:34:43 am
content: looking at these 2 not sure what one to get i have points on my account i can use to get around 5nzd offhttp://www.banggood.com/Orange-Pi-One-H3-Quad-core-Support-Ubuntu-Linux-And-Android-Mini-PC-p-1101747.html?rmmds=categoryandhttp://www.banggood.com/Orange-Pi-Lite-with-Quad-Core-1_2GHz-512MB-DDR3-WiFi-Mini-PC-p-1101903.html?rmmds=categoryhaving a hard time desiding was thinking of going for the c.h.i.p because of the built in memory but i probly have to wait a lot longer for my order plus the suppot for the c.h.i.p is no where near as good as the pi

author: Karel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 14, 2017, 09:58:16 am
content: This one:http://www.banggood.com/Raspberry-Pi-3-Model-B-ARM-Cortex-A53-CPU-1_2GHz-64-Bit-Quad-Core-1GB-RAM-10-Times-B-p-1041862.html

author: sony mavica
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 14, 2017, 10:06:18 am
content: Quote from: Karel on January 14, 2017, 09:58:16 amshould have said i really only want to spend like $30nzd one one as it will just be someting to play around with

author: jaromir
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 14, 2017, 02:18:16 pm
content: Amount of material, support, help and ready to go programs, scripts and utilities for raspberry pi is really huge. For orange pi (or other pi-s), not that much. And don't get fooled by the fact a lot of people will tell you "it's almost the same".Go for raspberry pi and once you get familiar with it, experiment with other platforms.

author: Karel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 14, 2017, 02:56:11 pm
content: Quote from: jaromir on January 14, 2017, 02:18:16 pmThis.

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 14, 2017, 03:12:57 pm
content: The (quad core) RPI 3 model B is markedly faster than previous iterations, so much so that it makes a passably fast "desktop" which takes up almost no precious desktop space. If you do that, however, try to use a real (USB) hard drive, because flash cards don't like being written to a lot, and likely will eventually fail in that scenario.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 04:59:36 am
content: Quote from: Karel on January 14, 2017, 02:56:11 pm+1Even if it's only for playing around, when something you try goes sideways, the amount of available resources and people familiar with the platform could make the difference between happiness and throwing the thing in the trash (letting it gather dust on a shelf or in a drawer is about the same ending).

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 05:04:30 am
content: Say no to Broadcom.
Thanks to TopLoser  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: biabeniamin
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 05, 2017, 03:50:02 pm
content: Hi,Few weeks ago, I asked if someone has an oscilloscope to donate because I don't have enough money to buy a new one.Few guys offered to give me one:mk_,Giovanni ,TopLoser and Isad .I want to thank you for yours offers and help.I decided to get the TopLoser offer and today the oscilloscope arrived.Thank you very very much TopLoser,you made me very very happy.If you need help at programming or any other think I can do for you,just let me know.You are a great guy.This is it:

author: Ampera
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2017, 04:19:55 pm
content: Tenma?Like Dr. Boynton?If you get that reference you officially have more useless information than I do.

author: RGB255_0_0
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2017, 04:28:04 pm
content: TopGuy

author: KhronX
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 10:07:10 am
content: I know it's a really old video, but....

author: VK3DRB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 12:38:46 pm
content: TopLoser is a Top Winner. Very generous and kind.

author: deephaven
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 12:48:48 pm
content: Quote from: VK3DRB on January 12, 2017, 12:38:46 pm+1

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 09:53:27 pm
content: I wish he was on this side of the pond with the awesome deals he comes up with.

author: electr_peter
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 13, 2017, 11:02:31 pm
content: I give anotherforTopLoser, he is a great person to deal with.
Testing ESD with insulation tester? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: corrado33
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2017, 03:56:15 pm
content: I remember watching a video where someone shocked a bunch of PCBs with an insulation tester (or perhaps a different high voltage generating device (tesla coil?)) to see if the high voltage spark would break any components. I thought it was Dave, but I couldn't find the video.Anybody know the video I'm talking about?
Any other good general electronics forums other than EEVBlog.com and Arduino.cc? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JoeN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 03:53:26 am
content: Those are the two I read, and AVRFreaks sometimes. Any other good ones out there? Just wondering if there is anything else I should be paying attention to. Heck, post any good ones that you like that are about really specific electronics or vendor dependent if you know about them if you want. Thank you.

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 04:12:43 am
content: I'd suggest having a look at the list in this thread for starters...List Of Electronics Youtubers

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 04:21:47 am
content: From Dave's Wiki:http://www.eevblog.com/wiki/index.php?title=Electronics_Related_Blogs

author: JoeN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 04:31:33 am
content: Thanks. That's a start. But I mean forums specifically if any others exist.

author: LHelge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 08:27:43 am
content: If you understand Swedish:http://www.elektronikforumet.comIs really good

author: JoeN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 08:59:52 am
content: I love Swedes. I am 100% totally racist in a pro-Swedish way.I consider them to be industrious and good-looking, like Germans, just without the propensity to start epic wars.(note: I'm half German myself). Too bad I don't speak it. I should work on finding a Swedish girlfriend who can help me translate.

author: hexreader
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 09:35:50 am
content: How about these forums....http://forum.allaboutcircuits.com/http://www.edaboard.com/forum.phphttp://www.electro-tech-online.com/https://www.electronicspoint.com/Register to get rid of the most annoying advertisements

author: LHelge
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 01:26:15 pm
content: Quote from: JoeN on January 12, 2017, 08:59:52 amThat's something I can highly recommend!

author: JoeN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 02:27:33 pm
content: Hex, good suggestions. Thanks.

author: Cubdriver
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 04:23:08 pm
content: I like diyaudio, diytube and audiokarma - they're all more audio related, but (the first two especially) have a strong electronics bent to them.-Pat
IGBT package WTF? Hole in the middle... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: daqq
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 07:01:17 am
content: Hi guys,I've received an IGBT brick for a project - it's really big, sturdy and such. But for some reason you can see right through one of the screw terminals - the other ones are covered. You can see the part of the internal layout - as such the innards are not sealed. There's some gunk on the actual dies probably, but still...Why was this done? It seems like a bad idea to allow for such a hole to exist in the first place - all sorts of (conductive) crap can get through into the brick and good luck getting them out. Depending on the internal structure of the brick (whether or not there is anything conductive is exposed inside) this could lead to all sorts of nasty.Is this common?Thanks,David

author: jaromir
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 07:34:20 am
content: Don't know if common or good in any way, but I have some IGBT modules where a bit longer bolt could collide with and screw up the IGBT guts, as the screw terminals has open bottom, with silicon just under it.Sometimes I wonder how could anybody design the expensive module for industrial applications with such as low level fool-proof-ness. Not sure what is the deal here - it's relatively big and heavy brick, few grams of plastics to separate screw terminals from silicon shouldn't hurt.

author: PartialDischarge
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 07:41:36 am
content: That's normal, I've seen it many times

author: MagicSmoker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 11:38:37 am
content: Holes in IGBT modules are very common and the clear gunk inside is a fairly tough silicone potting compound that remains sticky/flexible (it feels like it hasn't finished curing if you touch it). The silicone has the dual function of maintaining a high dielectric strength between the bondwires and opposing dice, as well as catching shrapnel if the module fails (which tends to be an explosive event); similarly, the holes provide an exit for gasses produced by rapid decomposition.The newest generation of LV (rated for 1.7kV or less) modules have the power terminals outside of the die attach area, so using too long of a bolt is less of a potential problem (still possible to crack the plastic housing, though). See Semikron's SEMiX or Fuji's V(J) series modules.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 02:45:29 pm
content: Either it's like that for venting (unlikely?), or someone ran too long of a bolt into it, at some point (are these used..?).If you probe into the hole (that area with traces on it, away from the die, is safe to touch; really, just avoid bending bondwires or scratching dies), you will find it's gooey to a modest depth (a few mm). As mentioned, it's "potted" in a sort of "gorilla snot" silicone gel.Tim
TI.com vs Chrome - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: senso
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 09, 2017, 04:59:42 pm
content: Is it just me or TI site is broken past being usable when using Chrome even with all my extensions disabled I have to use IE to be able to use the parts selectors..EDIT: Well, today not even IE is helping...This is all I can see

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 09, 2017, 07:02:34 pm
content: Works fine for me.Chrome Version 56.0.2924.51 beta (64-bit) on Manjaro Linux LXQT.

author: Monkeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 09, 2017, 07:04:46 pm
content: This is just TI's website being TI's website. It regularly breaks partially in one browser or another and works fine a few hours later.

author: Dago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 04:39:14 am
content: Previously I was also getting "Malicious website detected" when trying to access a datasheet on TI.com. That was weird too...

author: ebclr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 04:45:56 am
content: Clear all browser cache . will sove the issue
Hi guys, new user! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: djicode
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 14, 2017, 02:25:26 am
content: I'm an EEVblog subscriber on YouTube but this is my first time on the forums. I love the videos. I've always been a computer and electronics enthusiast and enjoying learning how things work. I look forward to reading all your enlightening posts.So who else reads the forums in an Australian accent?

author: sony mavica
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 14, 2017, 03:08:36 am
content: welcome

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 14, 2017, 04:56:08 am
content: Quote from: djicode on January 14, 2017, 02:25:26 amWhat accent?

author: Ampera
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 14, 2017, 07:16:24 pm
content: I read it in an American/British/German/French accent.And if you can imagine what that is, you are doing better than me.

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 14, 2017, 08:39:57 pm
content: I am surprised that you all can read my posts as I have a New Jersey accent and still have it after almost 30 years in Florida. Fuggeddiboudit!
cool - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: grifftech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2017, 05:50:38 am
content: https://youtu.be/vKCeYurFwKw5:47

author: ovnr
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2017, 12:48:48 pm
content: Spectacular thread title. Good job.
Why are electronic clock mechanisms so fragile? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: IanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2017, 10:01:55 pm
content: I've read before that letting the battery run too low can damage a clock (a typical garden variety quartz mechanism as found in most clocks).Well today I had a different experience. I tried to measure the current consumption of a clock I really like, and maybe I fumbled a bit inserting the break in the battery circuit for the meter, but before I knew it I found the clock no longer working. As far as I can tell the electronics are fried inside the mechanism. The second hand doesn't go and the alarm doesn't beep. All that happens is the clock makes a forlorn scratching noise out of the alarm buzzer every few seconds.Anyone know what gives? Is it because the electronics are made so cheaply they can't withstand a bit of noise on the power supply?

author: MK14
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2017, 10:48:01 pm
content: This seems to look good:http://www.wikihow.com/Maintain-a-Battery-Powered-Quartz-Wall-Clock

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2017, 10:55:26 pm
content: They probably don't bother with ESD or reverse protection. It's sealed inside a plastic enclosure for years at a time, why bother wasting whole cents on that?Speculation is about all we can offer (unless someone happens to have direct design experience making the chip used inside one!).Tim

author: IanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2017, 11:19:43 pm
content: Yes, I understand about the speculation part. I'm just letting off steam really.It's extra frustrating because this particular clock is not available in the USA and now I have to pay international shipping charges to get a replacement. It's only a few bucks but I hate it when perfectly good things get trashed because one tiny little part has failed.

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 08, 2017, 12:10:55 am
content: There are several different types of mechanical clock movements that can be called "quartz", is this the stepper-motor type? As long as the motor coil(s) are still OK, it should be possible to replace just the IC (salvage from another cheap movement) or even make your own...

author: Assafl
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 08, 2017, 10:49:08 am
content: I never saw a fried one. Almost always a contact.The last 10 years they did away with soldering. It is all little pieces of chrome plated metal held against other pieces of metal. Any wiggling of the body can get one loose.Try rebuilding it. It may still work (as long as the coil is intact as amyk stated).
Repair Burnt 1984 Montgomery Ward Sharp Color Television - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Homer J Simpson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 09, 2017, 11:04:04 pm
content: For entertainment from shango066.

author: raspberrypi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2017, 08:21:44 am
content: Love his channel.He put one of my comments about changing the caps in one of his videos recently. He called me the F word.
Not sure if new thread went through or not - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: lordvader88
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2017, 10:04:06 am
content: I typed up a new thread and I know to save the text to notepad........because after finishing it and adding pictures, I hit post, and then it half hangs then took me to a blank "new topic" screen. So I waited 5 minutes and re-tried. So it will probably get double posted.Does that happen to u often on forums ? Same thing happens on OCN (overclock.net)

author: lordvader88
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2017, 10:05:37 am
content: see and this small 1 went through fine, and immediately posted, the other was longer about a radio repair I'm starting

author: slicendice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2017, 11:17:10 am
content: Yes it is common for post sometimes to get lost in cyberspace or the response back to the sender gets lost. This can be caused by timeouts and many other network related factors.As you mentioned, type your message in notepad or at least copy your message including formatting to notepad for backup before you click post button. If something goes wrong, first check if your post got stored in the forum. If you can't find it, then try again from your notepad copy until it goes through.

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 07, 2017, 01:21:17 pm
content: At the very least do a Ctrl+A and Ctrl+C before hitting the Post button.It's saved me a couple of times (and several times I've cursed because I didn't).

author: slicendice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2017, 02:50:17 pm
content: Quote from: Brumby on January 07, 2017, 01:21:17 pm+1 on that!