hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Payments to RS Components - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: macks
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 07:27:51 am
content: So far VISA payments to RS have been quirky, I have been caught out not having more funds in my checking account than the order amount as RS seems to draw more than that (at first anyway). I must keep up to double the order price available as seemly random amounts will be drawn days later to then be refunded (with parts yet to be delivered).My question is, what are they doing? I haven't, ultimately been over charged but is this usual VISA charge behavior?

author: Len
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 03:14:13 pm
content: This is not usual behaviour, IME. I haven't ordered from RS Components, but Digi-key, Mouser and element14/Newark have never done that to me. Some sites have donesmalltrial charges (like $1) to verify my card or bank account but never a significant amount.

author: MrsR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 03:53:05 pm
content: RS have been good as far as charges on my credit card. They can be a bit of a pain when they show parts in stock but fail to deliver and place them on back order.This is typical of other firms also eg Element14 is the worst for this in Australia.Rachael

author: dannyf
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 03:57:29 pm
content: QuoteIf your balance is that borderline, maybe you shouldn't be buying until you have more funds available.

author: macks
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 06:17:23 pm
content: QuoteJust the balance of the checking account, usually keep unused funds an interest account which I can't perform external transactions with.Oh this is RS Australia I should add.It is of course completely workable but rather irritating if I happen to forget about it and end up having to make calls to get them of continue the transaction after finding limited funds. It does look as if someone has made off with my details and gone on a spending spree at times as well.
Carbon 3D Printing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 04:52:47 pm
content: Pretty cool -QuoteVideo -

author: miguelvp
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 07:33:31 pm
content: Is it something like stereo lithography for carbon?That's pretty awesome, (didn't have a chance to see the video yet)When can we print our own graphene, nanotubes and buckyballs?Forget that, when can we print our own diamonds!

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 07:48:49 pm
content: Basically you are limited to UV curable materials which are inhibited by oxygen, so that the active surface is at the middle of the liquid layer. Solves a problem, but the material choices are going to be very limited, seeing as you need a specific organic polymer. Also likely to have a problem with longevity, as warming it up in air will likely degrade it back to liquid or just make it crumble. Might be workable as a very quick prototyping method or a way to make a lost wax casting very fast.

author: Mr.B
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 07:59:17 pm
content: I don't see how this device differs very much from the Formlabs Form 1+.Except that Formlabs are using laser to cure the resin.

author: PA0PBZ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 08:03:41 pm
content: Quote from: Mr.B on March 22, 2015, 07:59:17 pmIt's fast. The thing in the video was printed in 7 minutes (1 minute video, 7 x speed).

author: Mr.B
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 08:09:45 pm
content: Quote from: PA0PBZ on March 22, 2015, 08:03:41 pmOk... I will give you that... It is fast.

author: miguelvp
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2015, 12:06:14 am
content: Stereo lithography is fast not just because of the process but you can print the whole plane at the same time.Some use DLPs some use displays that are reflective when on/off and with optics you can both cure that plane and use a prism so you can monitor what is going on at the same time via a camera.some others scan with a raster.nano stereo lithography is just even coolerDemo:Advert:They seem to be still in business.http://www.nanoscribe.de/en/But I've heard the resins used for both the macro and nano systems can be very toxic so unless you want cancer make sure you use the right materials and protective gear.There was a clever kickstarter but not sure how that end up. he used water drips to control the height and a speaker to control the laser, the water drips were counted because they would make contact in a sensor as they were dripping. That was supposed to be an inexpensive macro level stereo lithography
Two Stage Amplifier Lab - Help - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: otpowell
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 05:54:26 pm
content: Everyone, I need a little help. I am doing a lab on two stage amplifiers using 2N3904 transistors. If you look at the attached pic, there's a VINindicated on the negative pole of the capacitor. When building the circuit, where does the VINconnect to? Or is is open? I connected it to ground. In the next circuit we have a sine wave coming in through this Vin, but in this stage of it I am supposed to take measurements without the Vin connected to the a sine wave signal. Any clarification or suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks!

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2015, 07:12:38 pm
content: In the absence of an input signal, a short circuit, matched impedance termination, or open circuit may be appropriate. Depends on what you're analyzing.For "this stage of it", you should be able to determine, analytically, whether it makes a difference.Tim

author: otpowell
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 12:10:08 am
content: Thanks Tim, It's open.

author: dom0
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 12:27:00 pm
content: I'd take a guess and say this exercise is supposed to introduce you to the DC working point of this amplifier.

author: otpowell
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2015, 05:05:07 pm
content: Quote from: dom0 on March 24, 2015, 12:27:00 pmThe DC voltage stays static. It's the resistance on the emitter that changes which feeds into the collector of the 2nd transistor. This is a 2 stage CE CC feedback amplifier, I think. I'm not really sure what changing the resistance does lol, but the gain seems to be biggest when the resistance is at maximum around 5k ohm. I'm getting about 1.5 volts RMS @ output when gain is at maximum. Which doesn't seem like much gain since we have 12v dc going in. I'm pretty sure I have it hooked up properly.. I guess it's the 100mV pp AC signal that's getting amplified, not the DC voltage. My gain is calculated to be 48, is that 48 times the input voltage? So if I convert the 1.5 to P to P, that's 4.29volts. 100mv *48 is 4.8 volts so that's approximately correct?
Official information/ White Paper / Standard for DSUB connectors - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Cicada
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2015, 08:33:12 am
content: HelloI am sure most people never pay a lot of attention to details regarding DSUB connectors. I know I have searched for a industry standard on DSUB Connectors. I did not find any satisfactory answer but I did find that there is a lot of confusion and misconceptions about the terminology used regarding these connectors.Anyway I want to know what the difference between European footprint and US footprints are. I see many manufacturers refer to these two footprints but there is no consistency in the dimensions from different manufacturers.Any advice or pointer to a source of good info would be appreciated.Cicada

author: AndyC_772
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2015, 08:51:35 am
content: The best source of information I can suggest would be the manufacturer of whichever specific connector you're looking to use.If you think D-type connectors vary between manufacturers, try looking at RJ45, especially those with Ethernet transformers built in. Last time I checked, there were no two manufacturers making Gbit Ethernet connectors the same.
Looking for transport from Finland to Slovenia - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Cloud
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2015, 02:26:33 pm
content: Hello,I am looking forward to bid on a few items on an auction but the problem is the seller says pick up only. So I am looking for a company which will pack things and send it to me. Do you have any recomendations?
What? You can still get Tandy in Australia? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: aargee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2015, 07:16:39 am
content: I know Dick Smith purchased Tandy here in Aus, but this technology certainly post dates that (10years ago?)?!?http://search.dicksmith.com.au/search#w=tandyAhhh... probably purchased from Taandee factory in China.

author: aargee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2015, 11:13:16 am
content: Yes, that's what I was online for. A couple of packs of Eneloops. One day only pricing, 8 x AA or AAA for around $15
Amazon is coming to Oz finally - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: AHT52
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2015, 11:21:16 pm
content: Hello to all the eevblog people n Dave.I had a interesting conversation the other day with a person from a large electrical manufacturer. He mentioned that Amazon are currently procuring plant & equipment for data centres in Melbourne & Sydney.
Where do microwave engineers publish? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mechknoll
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2015, 01:44:55 am
content: The subject pretty much sums it up, but to be a little less vague. I was wondering what are good journals where antenna simulations can be published and also simulations with experimental data. I have been using CST MW studio and have access to a nice anechoic chamber with network analyzer

author: KJDS
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2015, 06:04:31 am
content: Decent stuff gets into IEEE trans MTT

author: TSL
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2015, 06:09:55 am
content: You can also try here...http://www.microwaves101.com/cheersTim

author: German_EE
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2015, 08:20:36 am
content: http://www.highfrequencyelectronics.com/They also do a paper edition.
search engines and their results when searching for electronics - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Neganur
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 17, 2015, 05:30:35 pm
content: I used to quite reliably be able to find relevant information about something when I entered a part number / model number etc. Nowadays it seems there are more websites that just reply to anything you search for with generic "copy paste" replies like:search for: "xyz" -> result : "Did you look for xyz ?", "here's xyz and your mom", "sucky sucky five dollah xyz in south Germany", "best xyz, we have it"Now they even start to just generate PDF files with your search term embedded. Wading through tons of fake and made up search hits is absolutely irritating.This is one of the days that this topic really irritates me again. What are the alternatives?

author: edavid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2015, 05:42:22 pm
content: I find Google Hit Hider very helpful in suppressing bogus search results:http://www.jeffersonscher.com/gm/google-hit-hider/
Goodyear BH03, a tyre that generates electricity! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: fubar.gr
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 16, 2015, 08:04:40 pm
content: http://www.autoblog.com/2015/03/06/goodyear-imagines-a-tire-that-can-charge-your-ev/Oh boy, there aren't enough facepalms in the world for this!For those who can't see the video:QuoteHow do you transform waste heat to electricity?The so-called piezoelectric material is going to increase rolling resistance, therefore the car will spend more fuel to counteract the resistanceEven if this does manage to generate electricity, how do they plan to transfer it from the tyre to the car?

author: Zero999
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2015, 08:17:17 pm
content: Sigh, already been posted. Yes, it's bullshit.https://www.eevblog.com/forum/chat/goodyear-shows-off-tires-that-produce-electricity/msg624892/#msg624892
Downloads from this site became extremely slow - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MrAl
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2015, 12:52:02 pm
content: Hello,Recently when someone posts a photo for viewing in a thread the download is extremely slow, for example 10k every 10 minutes. Before it worked fine, maybe a few days ago.Any ideas what happened?Thanks :-)
ESD Proofing Production Area - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Pack34
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2015, 01:39:41 pm
content: I'm in the slow process of building up a small batch production area and I'm having some concerns regarding ESD. The area I'm forced to use is carpeted with computer chairs at the pick and place station and the inspection / rework station. Now, occasionally I will get a shock when I touch the metal chassis of the machine so I'm wanting to try to mitigate issues in the future.I'm looking into getting a decently priced ESD mat for the inspection / rework station but what I'm concerned with is the floor. I'm not able to pull up the carpet so I'm looking at other options. Would some anti-static slip covers for shoes be enough to solve this problem? Or do I really need to look into the expensive process of tiling up the area with ESD floor matting?I've never actually fried a chip due to ESD but I'm concerned that it could happen in the future. Does anyone have any thoughts they would be willing to share?Anti-Static Boots:https://www.all-spec.com/products/ESD-Safe_Garments%7CGarment_Accessories_and_Cloth%7CGAR-06/69254-XL.html

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2015, 02:05:56 pm
content: Rolling ordinary furniture castors on non-ESD safe flooring can build up very high static charges, and if the flooring isn't static dissipative, anti-static footwear wont be any help at all. You may be able to reduce the problem to manageable levels with frequently tested wrist straps, anti-static carpet treatment spray + maintaining an adequate humidity level, but at the end of the day if you need assurances that your production environment is always static safe, you need both antistatic flooring and furniture. You may be able to secure anti-static floor matting local to the bench over the existing carpet so that the edges don't become a trip hazard (it will need a ground strap).
Cleaning Anti-Static Mats - No Acetone Please - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: German_EE
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2015, 03:32:39 pm
content: Viewers may remember a recent video where Dave got some marker pen on an anti-static mat. Isopropyl alcohol may remove the ink but if it does not please do not be tempted to try acetone. I just tried using acetone to remove some spray paint from a mat and the mat melted.

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2015, 03:40:41 pm
content: I am using this one. Desco is also ESD mats vendor so I presume they know what they are doinghttp://desco.descoindustries.com/DescoCatalog/WorksurfaceMats/MatAccessoriesCleaners/ReztoreAntistatic/10435/

author: wraper
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 15, 2015, 03:58:23 pm
content: Is it rubber mat or some vinyl crap?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2015, 05:27:32 pm
content: the desco stuff , or Chemtronics Static Free.

author: babysitter
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2015, 07:31:48 pm
content: Mats at work regularly survive acetone. As usual "Try it on a invisible spot", ymmv.

author: pickle9000
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2015, 07:42:59 pm
content: Marks on a mat are no big deal, shows it's used.
Status message for shipment from China just made me laugh. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JoeN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2015, 04:10:27 am
content: I only wonder if this was a screw-up in China or here at the US Postal Service, the brainiacs they employ. One would think these messages would be a specific list of statuses, but I guess there is a free-form entry somewhere in this system.Well, at least they did deliver it in one piece.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2015, 04:19:10 am
content: The "Acceptance" date is always first, it signifies the pickup date/time from the point of shipping.DHL do it very similar but call it "picked up" and the timeline reads from bottom of page up.

author: JoeN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2015, 04:37:04 am
content: That's not what I am taking issue with.Look closer...

author: RJFreeman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2015, 04:57:50 am
content: I think it is just a Lie....

author: mtdoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2015, 05:13:54 am
content: Quote from: RJFreeman on March 16, 2015, 04:57:50 amNa, it's the British spelling...

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2015, 09:52:20 am
content: lol typo...?
Private messages on this forum - sent message doesn't show up in sent box? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: nitro2k01
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2015, 11:30:04 pm
content: I just sent a PM, which was apparently successfully according to the page. However, the sent items page (https://www.eevblog.com/forum/pm/?f=sent) lists nothing. Is this normal behavior? Was my message actually delivered? Is the PM function here as dicky as the internal search function?

author: Mechanical Menace
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2015, 11:31:20 pm
content: There's a tickbox to save them just under the content box.

author: nitro2k01
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2015, 11:32:23 pm
content: Ah, you have to choose to save the message when sending it. Thanks.

author: AlfBaz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2015, 12:02:33 am
content: To set that behaviour as default, hover over Profile, select Account Settings. On that page, hover over Modify Profile and select Personal Messaging and click the box "Save a copy of each personal message in my sent items by default"
QUCS overview video from FOSDEM 2015 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: djsb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2015, 12:46:47 pm
content: Just thought someone would be interested in this QUCS open source simulator overview video from FOSDEM 2015http://mirror.as35701.net/video.fosdem.org//2015/devroom-electronic_design_automation/qucs_overview.mp4Hope you all find it interesting.

author: JohnnyBerg
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2015, 01:05:09 pm
content: Very interesting!Until now I use LTSpice, but I seem to be the only person in the world that can not cope with the user interface

author: codeboy2k
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2015, 04:14:37 pm
content: I'd like to revisit it. I first downloaded Qucs about 2 years ago and tried it out then. It was a little quirky, many things didn't work, and it crashed alot (which made it tedious to use) but I was most impressed the RF features and s-parameter features, which I ended up using the most.I watched the video. It was not really a great demo, but I see that it's improved, and there are active developers so that's good.I'll give it a try again.
Analog Aficionados dinner  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Rupunzell
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2015, 06:15:55 am
content: A few images from Analog Aficionados dinner 2015.http://www.edn.com/design/analog/4438782/1/Analog-Aficionados-dinner-2015--The--Rock-Stars--of-AnalogAnalog Aficionados dinner images from years past:http://s1298.photobucket.com/user/Analog_Aficionados/library/?sort=2&page=0Bernice

author: Vgkid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2015, 07:33:53 am
content: That would be an interesting event to attend. I almost bought some of LIS dual j-fets.
Lock mouse and keyboard via smart card or similar - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2015, 12:13:50 am
content: I'm looking for a way to lock a mouse and keyboard's access but not the display. Meaning no form of messing with the USB ports will gain you mouse or keyboard access. (including plugging in your own)Ideally by HID iClass cards since we could re-use existing hardware. (I.E. we already have readers)Basically the idea is securing console access to a computer that controls some machinery. We can't use use a normal windows lock screen because that would cover any safety related warnings that should be visible at all times. There are a lot of non-employees (cleaning crew, suppliers etc) that pass through the area after hours that need to be kept safe.An ability to set a password bypass would be needed as well for remote support purposes.Anything similar that you guys have used? Normal windows smart card services don't suit this because of it locking the screen which we can't do for safety reasons.

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2015, 03:28:57 am
content: Quote from: Stonent on March 13, 2015, 12:13:50 amHow about making a sign with those warnings and attaching it somewhere near the monitor?

author: pickle9000
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2015, 05:45:26 am
content: Is it a regular pc usb keyboard and mouse? A key operated switch connected to a usb hub inside the case.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2015, 08:59:49 am
content: Quote from: amyk on March 13, 2015, 03:28:57 amThe warnings are coming from the computer. They aren't static. Plus one of the screens displays what is being built next.
Cisco CallManager On-hold Music - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 12, 2015, 08:55:46 am
content: It's been kicking around for a while and was created back in 1989; most of us have heard it.This is the story behindOpus No. 1created by Tim Carleton and Darrick Deel.Here's a copy of the full-length track (for the geeks):https://db.tt/v2Ap8JA0

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2015, 05:29:53 pm
content: Most of us have been on hold to have heard the entire symphony at least 15 tis in a row, with only the odd automated" we are aware of your call, please hold on for the next available operator", as a change from routine.I have it on my phone, a cruel joke to play on the helldesk staff by playing it into the phone while waiting for them, so they get the hold instead.
Aussie model rocket for the record books - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JonnyBoats
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2015, 02:37:24 am
content: The World's Biggest Amateur Rocket Is About To Blast Offhttp://makezine.com/2015/03/09/biggest-amateur-rocket-ever-built/

author: KD0CAC John
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2015, 03:10:53 am
content: I got in enough trouble in the 60s + 70s with Estes rockets when I was a kid , something that size .Would have really gotten me in trouble .

author: Mechanical Menace
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2015, 11:19:45 am
content: I wouldn't count taking a commercial motor and shoving it in a case as building a rocket, that's just pimping your commercial rocket motor.EDIT: FFS it's not even liquid fuel!!! So not only have they not made their own motor but they aren't even using the right type and then they call it a replica V2? That's like painting a phoenix on an Fiat 500 and calling it a replica Firebird...
Playback resume from previous stop point. Do Ebay voice recorders do this? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: wilfred
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 11:11:25 am
content: /.

author: Towger
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 12:05:33 pm
content: I use Podcast Addict on my phone. Restarts from were it stops and what's more downloads and manages them to begin with.

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 12:21:41 pm
content: Quote from: wilfred on March 09, 2015, 11:11:25 amThat's surprising. Even the cheapest "s1mp3" players that were popular in the last decade did this - pressing play/stop would resume at the last point you stopped.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 04:59:08 pm
content: I use a cheap transcend media player, and it will resume at the last place when you power it on again after stopping and turning it off. Cheap, reliable and mounts as a drive ( no flaky drivers needed as it is a plain mass storage device) or as a generic media player, selectable in settings. 2g of on board memory ( current versions are 8G) and easy to use, with voice recorder, line in and a FM radio. Nice OLED display as well.http://au.transcend-info.com/product/multimediaThe MP330 is what I use.http://au.transcend-info.com/Products/No-262
Nice set of probes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: rollatorwieltje
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 03:56:28 pm
content: For some reason this seller of one of those diy curve tracers decided to make his own probes. Does anybody know the CAT rating of a ballpoint pen?http://www.ebay.com/itm/Transistor-Diode-Capacitor-Tracker-Curve-Tracer-Tester-With-Probes-BNC-Cables/161294643173?_trksid=p2050601.c100272.m3467&_trkparms=aid%3D111001%26algo%3DREC.SEED%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140813112422%26meid%3D5e124ea55d3b46569d1a459017278b75%26pid%3D100272%26rk%3D4%26rkt%3D4%26mehot%3Dag%26sd%3D281541424561%26clkid%3D4608131061025209736&_qi=RTM2062267

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 04:07:46 pm
content: Cat1, he must have gotten a big box of free pens somewhere to use to make them as well.

author: Mark
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 08:37:37 pm
content: I've done the same when making home-made H and E field probes for EMC diagnostic work!

author: max666
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 08:55:11 pm
content: Here, you can get CAT, rated, ballpoint pens from aliexpress:http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-Shipping-24pcs-lot-Korea-Style-Cute-Cat-Ballpoint-Pen-Creative-Cartoon-Ball-Pen-Study-Stationary/1824303895.htmlI will show myself out ...

author: lowimpedance
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 11:49:40 pm
content: And here I am just tossing out my empties ...., would have had a trailer load of probes by now if only I had the for thought !

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 11:51:24 pm
content: Very pretty.

author: dannyf
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2015, 12:08:58 am
content: I have seen people making solder irons from ball pens.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2015, 12:20:24 am
content: Quote from: max666 on March 09, 2015, 08:55:11 pmIs that a CAT I pen or a I CAT pen.
Another nonsense BS - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: IvoS
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 11, 2015, 09:14:10 pm
content: I am looking for capacitors for my amplifier (I am not one of those audio fools) and I just came across this from ELNA, you have to love it!http://www.elna.co.jp/en/capacitor/onkyou/index.html

author: Phaedrus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 11, 2015, 09:19:02 pm
content: It's like reading an ad lib. Total word salad.

author: dannyf
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2015, 11:20:16 am
content: QuoteI love people loving it.QuoteWhat would be the mechanism for that?

author: CatalinaWOW
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2015, 03:59:19 pm
content: First two columns seem to be factually correct. Third column actually seems more right than wrong. Then the fourth column fades off into something. Word salad isn't a bad description.

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2015, 04:34:12 pm
content: Quote from: dannyf on March 12, 2015, 11:20:16 amDepends on wheres in circuitry the cap is used. On power supply, it means that current drawn at the output stage will couple to input stage. This is made worse because ESR usually is not linear, but frequency dependent. I'm not sure where the distortion comes when a cap is used in the signal path, only that it can be bad. Maybe high ESR indicates other problems with the part.
Blu-ray to Digital File (M2TS) Muxing Issue - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 08, 2015, 04:26:05 am
content: Before I begin, I'd like to be clear that I own the rights to the content in question. I don't want this thread turning into a legal argument about Copyright law or any of the sort -- I'm allowed to be doing what I'm doing here with this particular material. I don't endorse the unlawful copying of Copyrighted works or illegal file sharing. Onto my problem...I have some video content recorded on Blu-ray disc. It's as close to the original shot footage as I can get my hands on now. The media itself was mastered and recorded onto the Blu-ray media by a third-party who I am not in contact with. There's nothing special about the content, it's a standard 1080i H264 stream using the High@4.1 profile. Audio is 5.1 DTS-HD. Everything complies with the Blu-ray spec.I'm trying to extract the stream out to an M2TS file which is just a straight copy of the tracks that I'm after (video and audio only minus the presentation graphics) so essentially it'll be a standalone video file. The Blu-ray plays fine from start to finish both on PC and in a Blu-ray player. The moment I try and copy it using DVDFab/AnyDVD HD and tsMuxeR, the resulting video plays but stalls, skips, drops frames and audio is out of sync almost as if the file is corrupt or incomplete. All I'm doing is demuxing the video and audio streams then muxing them back into their native M2TS file format (there is no conversion or manipulation of the codecs at all).I've done it a hundred times before and this is the first disc I have had issues with. Has anyone come across some strange encryption or copy protection method on BD discs? It's not a system performance issue or a disc read error. I'm stumped.
"Expedition Overland" - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dannyf
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 08, 2015, 02:06:47 pm
content: Here is a youtube show of a group of guys driving through Alaska in their trucks:They appear to have made quite a few other episodes - I just finished the Alaska series. Really amazing scenery. I have been to Alaska as a tourist but never saw it the way those guys did.Fascinating.
Mechatronics or Mechatronic - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Sbampato12
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 12:38:33 pm
content: Hello,I know this isn't the most electronic related doubt, but I don't know a better place to ask.Should I say "I'm a mechatronic technician" or "I'm a mechatronicstechnician"?

author: BradC
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 12:43:26 pm
content: Quote from: Sbampato12 on March 02, 2015, 12:38:33 pmThat entirely depends on whether you are mechatronic yourself, or you just work on mechatronics

author: Sbampato12
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 12:50:38 pm
content: Even with my wife keep telling I act like a robot, if I get it, I should say mechatronicstechnician, alright?Thank you!

author: Galenbo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2015, 06:03:53 pm
content: As long as it isn't the guy that is putting those bolts and fixing those wires that is calling himself that.

author: calexanian
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 05, 2015, 06:34:17 am
content: It is like asking which is a more proper term. He is an Electronic Technician. Or, He is an Electronics Technician. Both would be understood. Quick, we need a linguist! Or somebody call NIST and see what the standard is!

author: Galenbo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2015, 11:17:12 am
content: Quote from: calexanian on March 05, 2015, 06:34:17 amThe first one is Robot1 that fixes multible Robot2.The second one is the guy they phone when Robot1 is broken.

author: Sbampato12
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2015, 04:49:54 pm
content: Quote from: Galenbo on March 07, 2015, 11:17:12 amNow it is very clear...Anyway, calexanian is more right, my job title is mechatronics technician, but I work more like as electronics techician.....
Dying USB chargers - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: rexxar
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2015, 06:50:57 am
content: So my mom's new iPhone charger died after just a month or two of use, so I sent it in under warranty. I thought it was a bit odd, given it's a legitimate Apple device, but I figured it was just bad luck. She's just brought me the replacement one, and it's dead too, after about two weeks this time.She's convinced that the (very old) extension cord it's plugged into is what killed it, but I'm wondering if there isn't something in the house that's killing these chargers?The outlet it usually stays plugged into also has an old SCR-type dimmer lamp with a cheap LED bulb in it. I wonder if maybe it's putting some sort of EMI back up the line that's killing these chargers? That'd have to be some pretty extreme EMI to do that though, wouldn't it? And for that matter, there's a different USB charger that's been left plugged in there much longer than these iPhone chargers that still works just fine...I'm stumped, what do you guys think?

author: Vgkid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2015, 07:27:42 am
content: Have you tried using a diffrrent outlet on a different circuit.

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2015, 07:27:47 am
content: old extension cord likely has some contact resistance, so if you have those style devices the current spikes are likely resulting in a voltage spike on the charger, they build them withstand normal line voltages, but if its seeing voltage spikes repeatably, that could be upsetting the apple charger more than the much dumber chargers you otherwise likely have,

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2015, 03:59:36 pm
content: To an approximation, it shouldn't matter to an SMPS what the mains waveform looks like since they rectify their input, and should work just as well on pure DC up to the maximum frequency the rectifiers can handle.Open it up and see what has failed.

author: Seekonk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2015, 04:20:31 pm
content: Just how do you know that the charger has failed and not the battery in the iphone?

author: max666
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2015, 04:35:25 pm
content: I can't see how an extension cord, no matter how old, could kill SMPS.SCR-type dimmer and LED bulb can be a very bad combination, if the LED bulb isn't designed to be dimmable. Although then I would still expect either the LED bulb or the dimmer to fail before the SMPS charger.
AT Computer Latching Power Switch - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 05, 2015, 11:37:47 pm
content: Many of you will remember the old latching power switch on old AT computers (see attached image I stole from Google). Rather than using old AT power supplies in my vintage computers, I've been replacing them with new ATX power supplies with an adapter cable but still retaining that old "clunking power switch".My question is: Is there a proper name for these types of switches and are they a part that can be ordered from Element14? I had a brief look under 'pushbutton switches' but they stock over 1800 of those alone.

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 06, 2015, 11:32:56 am
content: It looks like a typical 240VAC mains switch - you'll find similar ones in old white goods equipment like washing machines and tumble dryers. Maybe ask a spare/repair parts shop.

author: rdl
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 06, 2015, 07:47:39 pm
content: You want a DPST pushbutton switch rated for whatever your mains voltage is. Just as an fyi, when I looked at Mouser, there were a whole lot more choices that were rated 250 VAC than at the lower voltages (220,230,240).
Watch the 'round the world solar powered plane' in flight details - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mr Smiley
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 05:18:20 am
content: http://www.solarimpulse.com

author: PA0PBZ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2015, 10:23:39 am
content: Too much attention already, couldn't get it to work for the past 2 hours.
Anyone see the new Back to the Future trailer? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: radiomog
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2015, 04:50:42 am
content: just you wait till Dave gets here!

author: ELB0DEEP
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 08, 2015, 07:47:41 am
content: Was hoping Dave would see it. It was the first thing I thought when I saw the pic... "Dave would love this."

author: Cside
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 08, 2015, 08:37:28 am
content: Quote from: ELB0DEEP on March 08, 2015, 07:47:41 amThat's a fake. I saw it on Myth Busters

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 08, 2015, 10:05:31 am
content: The topic subject line got my hopes up that it was a new movie trailer or something

author: German_EE
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 08, 2015, 12:34:01 pm
content: That picture is wrong in so many ways
The Grand Rectifier - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: BlueBill
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 06, 2015, 03:34:11 am
content: Funny stuff, don't try this at home.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sI5Ftm1-jik&feature=youtu.be

author: Vgkid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 06, 2015, 03:42:43 am
content: I laughed at that.I read the comments
GCSE Product Design Research Questionaire - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Bexley Talbot
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 01, 2015, 09:05:19 am
content: I am currently undergoing my GCSE Product Design project and i have choosen to focus on electronics, i will be very thankful if you could take the time to answer these questions.1)Which Three tools do you use most often?2)Do you struggle to keep your workspace tidy?3)What kind of projects do you enjoy? (i.e fixing things, robotics)4)Where in your home do you do electronics?5)Do you encounter any problems with the area you work in, if so what are these problems? (i.e not a permanent workspace)6)Do you need to transport you project to other places? (i.e from the shed to the house)Thank You Again!

author: JackP
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2015, 10:35:38 pm
content: I'm only a kid so this might not be that useful, but hey:1) Multimeter, side cutters, scope2)Yes (small desk)3)I like repairing test gear and working with uCs4)My bedroom/conservatory for soldering5)Yes, the desk is small and I have to do school work on it and use it as a bedside table6)Yes, from bedroom to conservatory to solder themHope this helps!

author: rdl
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 04:15:35 am
content: 1) Multimeter, oscilloscope, side cutters2) I struggle to keep my entire apartment tidy3) The ones that work the first time I turn them on4) In a closet5) Yes, no windows and poor ventilation6) If I need to use the milling machine or drill press I go to the kitchen

author: Bexley Talbot
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 06:21:30 pm
content: Thanks to everyone who has posted so far!! Keep the replys coming

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 07:05:16 pm
content: 1) Altium CAD, Visual Studio, Geomagic (mechanical CAD)2) No. (I'm not even trying)3) Those that teach me something, those that go smoothly, those that let me use / get new tools4) One lab in the attic, two Labs in the cellar, workshop in the cellar, one bedroom as a storage room5) Cellar has low headroom at few spots - all other issues I fix.6) Sometimes from one workstation to another.

author: Fsck
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 07:38:07 pm
content: 1) multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies2) technically I don't struggle as I've simply given up on the entire affair3) projects which are heavy on research required4) my "lab" is a repurposed dining table in my living room5) lack of area means that the equipment in my workspace changes organically in response to the project I'm doing. inactive test equipment gets stacked on some shelving a few meters away.6) nope, my apartment isn't large enough for that.

author: Bexley Talbot
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 05, 2015, 06:53:17 pm
content: Thank you very much for contribution!!If you wish to see my final product I will most likely post pictures in 2-4 weeks.Thanks again,OP
Turning on a lamp the Big Bang Theory way - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: VingTor
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 05, 2015, 07:19:46 am
content: Not sure I would make so much effort to turn on a light, but hey, they got it right back in 2008...http://blog.atmel.com/2015/03/04/video-turning-on-a-lamp-via-the-internet-the-big-bang-theory-way/
Did iTead discontinue small batch boards? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Pack34
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2015, 03:40:00 pm
content: I tend to like to use these guys for low quantity PCBs since they're so cheap and their shopping cart system is mostly hassle free. I was about to place an order today and noticed that all of their small batch 2 layer options are all discontinued. Checking on their blog I didn't see a mention of this.Has anyone heard anything regarding this or have an alternative board house that they wouldn't mind suggesting?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2015, 03:43:53 pm
content: http://imall.iteadstudio.com/open-pcb/small-batches-pcb.htmlthird item.they discontinued the 5x5 5x10 and other 'tiles'.. you now enter the real dimensions of the board.this saves money in the long run.

author: Pack34
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2015, 03:52:26 pm
content: Thank you. It looks like I'm blind as a bat this morning.I like to order stacks of boards that I may use, but didn't quite want to order 300 panels...
iPhone wall wart on Oscilloscope - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: otpowell
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2015, 02:21:59 am
content: I think I know the answer to this question, I just bought a new scope Owon SDS7102 and I'm just experimenting. I thought all DC that comes from an AC signal was pulsating DC or a square wave. I hooked my 5.3 volt wall wart up to my scope and my max voltage was 5.3 volts, but my peak to peak was 300mV. Comparing this to my scopes 5V square wave reference, the signal from the charger is much much smaller. Is this because it's not a square wave but constant voltage? I guess this makes sense when I think back about how rectifiers work and how the capacitors smooths out the wave form. I guess I'm just looking for extra validation. If constant voltage similar to a battery is so easy to attain, then why are square waves so popular in the lab? For learning purposes? Stupid question?

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2015, 02:43:28 am
content: Quote from: otpowell on March 03, 2015, 02:21:59 amThis may explain

author: otpowell
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2015, 03:23:06 am
content: Thank you, yes that's exactly what my signal looked like, the regulated output. Makes sense, thank you!
Infrastructure - The Movie/Trailer (Fun) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: max666
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 04:14:12 pm
content: I would watch that. What's not to love about routine maintenance and repair?!Last Week Tonight with John Oliver: Infrastructure (HBO)And I'm a big sucker for terrible puns about engineering

author: Mechanical Menace
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 04:20:18 pm
content: "The uploader has not made this video available in your country."

author: max666
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 04:42:52 pm
content: Quote from: Mechanical Menace on March 02, 2015, 04:20:18 pmDamn those pesky restrictions!Well if you are interested, here is a way around that:http://www.vpnbook.com/

author: Sbampato12
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 05:01:51 pm
content: Awesome!

author: f1rmb
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 05:10:23 pm
content: Excellent, fun and informative.

author: Mechanical Menace
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 05:23:15 pm
content: "This thing is going to blow!!!In 15 to 20 years, which is why it's so important we caught it early."Quote from: max666 on March 02, 2015, 04:42:52 pmI don't mind it on their own sites but seems to defeat the point of YouTube.QuoteUsed hidemyass's proxy to watch this, but will keep that one in mind thanks.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 05:42:00 pm
content: That was quite good. This should be shown to all politicians and municipal officials, and just to make sure clamp them down to the spike laden chairs with chains , take the phones away and use toothpicks to hold the eyes open, along with periodic shocks to ensure they are awake.

author: lapm
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 05:47:27 pm
content: Damn i might be grazy enought to go watch it, but then everyone arround me would think im grazy and thats not good...

author: calexanian
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2015, 03:12:57 am
content: That was pretty good.
Casio FX61F Calculators (That's the electronics specialist one) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Zad
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2015, 05:55:58 pm
content: I've been tracking these on Ebay, hoping that eventually people would lose interest, or that everyone who wanted one would have bought one and decided to sell it on again. No such luck! I was tracking one on Ebay UK this week, and it was £10 with an hour to go. It went to £15 with 30 seconds to go, so I put in a bid for £22.*Tick*Sorry, you haven't won! Current bid: £23Oh well, I bid what it was worth to me. Not to worry.5 seconds to go.*Tick* Current bid £38Woah!*Tick* Current bid £56Oof!*Tick* Current bid £70-somethingBlimey*Tick* Current bid £82:oO*Tick* Final selling price £91WTF!

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 11:13:03 am
content: Yep, I track them hoping to pick up a 2nd one eventually, but yes, they go for crazy prices.
Mouser 'shipping restricted' - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bitwelder
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2015, 10:56:09 am
content: Does anyone who has used Mouser search tool from outside US if there is a way to exclude from the results any item that is under 'Shipping restricted' conditions (i.e. not available outside US) ?The Quantity column is not even sortable so you cannot push those items down to the bottom.