hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Single Component Stainless Steel Stencil - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: s1ig0
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 30, 2020, 02:29:07 pm
content: Hi,Every so often I need to produce a home-made pcb for prototyping. I try to stick with through-hole stuff when I can, but every so often I have no option but to work with smd. Last weekend I had the displeasure of having to hand-solder a 16 pin thin-lead tssop part. I hand-roll my footprints in Kicad to give me the best chance of success (fatter, longer pads when that makes sense), but even so it's a total pain.Thinking about alternative ways to get the job done, I thought: wouldn't it be cool if you had a set of multiple-use, single component stainless steel stencils for more awkward package types. I'm actually OK to hand-solder quite a few smd package types, but the smaller ones are always a nuisance. The point is, I wouldn't need a complete board stencil, just ones that help me with the awkward ones.So, I had a look around this morning and I came across these guys (http://www.proto-advantage.com/store/index.php?cPath=3000_3200_3230), Proto Advantage stencils. I'm just wondering if anyone has used these and what their experience has been? One obvious disadvantage is that you need some clearance for the stencil. That might be OK, provided you remembered to get the stencil parts done first and I typically don't have crowded boards anyway. Thoughts?

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2020, 02:39:39 pm
content: Well you'd need something suitably small to squeegee it with, from an arts supplies or cake decorating kit perhaps but otherwise rework stencils aren't that uncommon if it floats your boat. Of course you could stick a whole bunch of these footprints into a cheapy floppy stencil from china and then cut them out for a saving. That said, TSSOP16 should be fairly easy by hand with a decent flux, solder & iron combo SSOP are the bigger stinkers because they have fat legs with small gaps between, which sadly also makes them more prone to shorts when using a stencil if you don't tweak the apertures.

author: s1ig0
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 30, 2020, 03:16:10 pm
content: It's funny, they always turn out OK after hand-soldering. I mean, there's little you can't do with flux and braid. But, I always face into it feeling that I'm going to mess it up, bridge the pins and spend 20 minutes longer trying to sort it out. I reckon two out of three times that's precisely what happens. It'd be nice to have a method that just "works". Ordering a cheap multi-part stencil and cutting it up is a good idea. Has anyone ordered one recently and can share a link?

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2020, 06:40:30 pm
content: I considered those ProtoAdvantage stencils, but for the price, you could design one with several footprints and have it made in China or OSHStencils.Oops, I just saw your location. For me the biggest advantage of OSHStencils is shipping. They can be big,
Hakko 707 question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Alex Eisenhut
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2020, 02:12:56 am
content: Anyone know if the diaphragm needs replacing and how often? The manual says the pump can do "600mm Hg " of vacuum, can this dingus read thathttps://www.ebay.ca/itm/Digital-0-30inHg-0-1bar-Mini-2-Dial-Air-Vacuum-Pressure-Gauge-Meter-Manometer/223336458971?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649600mm is 23 inches, so it should. Do I simply stick this gauge right at the vacuum port of the station with an adapter and read the meter? It's that simple?I already had to make a new valve for the thing, if the vacuum isn't strong enough I can only guess it's the diaphragm or the exhaust filter.Or should I get a newer gun? I only desolder DIPs on vintage computers on two layer boards.
Registered Airmail from China - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: TimCambridge
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2020, 04:49:41 am
content: LCSC have this notice:QuoteLots of flights have been cancelled and most airmail is carried in the holds of passenger planes. Possibly the problem?

author: olkipukki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2020, 08:54:42 am
content: My latestest order (14/3) has been dispatched and handover today to 'service provider', at least left LCSCAlso, I noticed - UPS has changed an usual route from Shenzhen, everything is going through Thailand / India

author: rea5245
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2020, 12:52:15 pm
content: So registered air from China can be even slower? Who knew?!

author: Stray Electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2020, 02:09:36 pm
content: Is Air Mail even a thing any more? MOST first class mail goes by air even if you don't pay for Air Mail. In fact, we rarely use mail at all except for packages and I certainly wouldn't pay the exorbitant rates for AM for those.

author: chickenHeadKnob
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2020, 11:52:57 pm
content: Quote from: olkipukki on March 15, 2020, 08:54:42 amIndia is shutting down as well, but don't know if it is a total ban yet. Worst case your package can get stuck in some intermediate location.
Where to get very advanced spec pcbs? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Gibson486
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2020, 09:01:43 pm
content: Anyone know where I can get very advanced spec pcbs made? I am talking copper 1.5 mils apart. Everywhere seems to says 3 mils unless you do HDI, which I have no idea why that would make a difference. Does HDI just have less copper weight so they can get it closer?

author: ThomasDK
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2020, 10:55:29 pm
content: Quote from: Gibson486 on March 04, 2020, 09:01:43 pmYou have it back to front:HDI=High Density Interconnect, IE many thin traces with narrow gaps.Going below 3 milsisHDI.

author: TheUnnamedNewbie
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 05, 2020, 01:17:00 pm
content: What applications are you talking about? What region did you have in mind?Places I can think of:Optiprint in SwitserlandStevenage in the UKECS in IrelandACB in BelgiumAT&S in Austria.Have to say, 1.5 mil is already quite small (35 um or something like that). A lot of manufactures I have talked to tend to go to 4, maybe 3 mil for proto/low volume. Guys like optiprint can go finer.Are these really PCBs or rather something like interposers? Interposer technology like silicon/glass interposers tend to go down to 5um tracewidth/spacing sometimes.

author: Gibson486
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 05, 2020, 03:45:38 pm
content: It is for an application where the consumable is on a PCB. Yes, you can think about it as an interposer. We do it on glass now, but it is not really scalable for us. Thanks for that list!

author: OwO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 05, 2020, 04:26:29 pm
content: What's the typical cost for a chip-on-glass prototype? It's probably cheap in volume because it's used in LCD displays, so it might be a possible way to do HBM (high bandwidth memory) using ordinary off-the-shelf DDR chips.

author: TheUnnamedNewbie
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 06, 2020, 08:09:40 am
content: Quote from: OwO on March 05, 2020, 04:26:29 pmMy experience with any kind of interposer technology is that the cost for setup is quite high, similar to that of older silicon technologies. That makes sense when you consider some of the silicon-based interposer stuff manufactured is actually an older technology's metal stackup (I know of one vendor that uses a 4-metal stackup of their .35um process for this).Problem is that there are few MPW-style prototype services. Same issue with lots of LTCC stuff.Quote from: OwO on March 05, 2020, 04:26:29 pmI'm no expert but I thought HBM required special kinds of dies too (with TSVs that can be stacked)?

author: Gibson486
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 11, 2020, 06:24:07 pm
content: Anyone ever deal with PCBs that are done with nano ink? It's an additive process instead of subtractive. Seems really new...so new that no PCB manufacture has really started doing it and it is done via the hacker community.
Anyone used Hackvana recently? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: 741
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2018, 11:54:16 am
content: Normally Mitch is very good at responding, this time he replied "not able to help you at this time" (with my request for PCB manufacturing).- I infer it's not likely to be worth my asking the same thing soon ?

author: emsnickw
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2020, 01:37:03 am
content: From Hackvana's site "After eight years, thousands of orders, and hundreds of thousands of boards, I've closed the doors of Hackvana."

author: Bud
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2020, 02:31:48 am
content: There was no way he could compete with factory direct orders. He charged a premium.

author: OwO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2020, 02:32:48 am
content: Isn't oshpark the continuation of hackvana?
is there any guide for the solder bridge ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: czorgormez
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2020, 10:08:30 am
content: is there any guide/calculation method for the solder bridges, gap vs bridge length also flat bridge vs triangular bridge ? i have very limitet space and my minimum gap is 4 mil (0.1 mm) i am trying to figure out bridge shape and dimension. pcbs are FR4 and 1 oz (35 um) copper if means anything.

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2020, 07:30:49 pm
content: I don't know about any calculations. I checked the most recent ones I have done. I have an 8 thous gap with rectangular pads. Maybe 40 thousandths or so wide pad on either side of the 8 mil gap. Swipe on, swipe off.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2020, 09:07:40 pm
content: I prefer the triangular bridge. If min trace/space is 4mil maybe make the gap 5mil.I had issues with JLC where I believe it was too close to the spacing spec, so the whole polygon was removed.Don't forget to add the solder mask cutout as well.
Rechargeable Soldering Iron LOL - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 12:50:55 am
content: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32715080964.html

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 12:57:40 am
content: Nothing new.I had a couple way back in the 80's, one was a pistol type with a drill attachment, torch and the soldering head.The other was a proper pencil type and iron only and both were stuffed with NiCad C cells.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 01:02:47 am
content: Its not that its new or not, the jank factor is off the charts.Clearly a reused case from another instrument, loose 18650 cells taped together with cheap yellow tape, random soldered and taped wires hot glued in place, no heatshrink used. The wallwart could even be transformer based.And they supposedly have 998 pieces on hand, right.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 01:26:08 am
content: Quote from: thm_w on February 25, 2020, 01:02:47 amMaybe I should order one

author: TERRA Operative
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 05:40:20 am
content: Dooooo eeettttYou can set it on the shelf of shame alongside your worst tablet in the world.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2020, 10:53:25 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on February 25, 2020, 01:26:08 amYeah! Who needs a silly collection of Pace, JBC and Hakko when you can have THIS raging stallion of a device!

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2020, 12:44:14 pm
content: It's not hard to do a proper job.

author: SiliconWizard
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2020, 04:19:14 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on February 25, 2020, 12:50:55 amNice product.
Hakko ceramic paper filters - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Alex Eisenhut
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2020, 01:21:54 am
content: Anyone have an idea why these things are so expensive? What can be used as a substitute? This is for my Hakko 707 I use at home.https://www.ebay.ca/itm/10pcs-For-HAKKO-Ceramic-Paper-Filter-A5044-Replacement-to-A1033/233432361958?hash=item3659a72be6:g:-SMAAOSwabBd8eHnAnd I need the other thinner one (A1611) too, I change them as a set.https://www.ebay.ca/itm/10pcs-1bag-For-Hakko-Replacement-Ceramic-Paper-Filters-A1009/273561061983?hash=item3fb1828a5f:g:KNMAAOSw35hcd43nWhat's the big deal here? (Besides the fact I have absolutely no idea what "ceramic paper" is)

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2020, 05:06:24 am
content: It's probably mineral wool, the same stuff used sometimes for insulation and gaskets in fireplaces.As for the price, they're not trivially cheap but $12 for 10 doesn't seem all that bad to me, I change the filter in my 808 once a month up to once every 3-4 months depending on how heavily I'm using it. That works out to about the cost of a couple beers once a year or so.

author: all_repair
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2020, 05:41:56 am
content: There are compatible available.And to conserve the earth, I replace only after the filter get too thin after few tearing of the top layer.

author: ANTALIFE
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2020, 10:28:19 pm
content: Like others have said, for 10pcs the price does not seem too badI learned that sometimes it's not worth it to cut corners, and if you use a cheaper substitute then you risk reducing the lifetime of your equipment

author: Alex Eisenhut
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2020, 02:43:00 am
content: Yes I'm probably making a fuss for nothing here. I just enjoy complaining.

author: all_repair
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2020, 08:38:22 am
content: No you are not. Filter is like ink, that is there the manufacturer goes for the kill. The difference here is printer is much more complex and is sold at hardly any profit. The function of this filter is to protect suction vacuum. Even with very thin filter, the inner side is absolutely clean and stain-free. I am using compatible and tearing them by layer (most can tear about 3 times), my gears are as good as they can be. Problem with my desoldering station is with the inside plastic piping that has become hardened with age, and so affect the suction power. Buying this piping is a hassle.

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2020, 06:28:33 pm
content: I think if they were that overpriced with that much profit potential then the market would be flooded with aftermarket filters. I have not seen this so I can only assume that the price is not too unreasonable. Like I said, I spend the cost of a hamburger about once a year or two on filters, it's just not a big deal.
No clean AND water soluble flux - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jeremy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 01:48:44 pm
content: I’ve been using this no clean, water soluble flux for a few months now, and it seems too good to be true? I’m guessing that absorption of humidity is a problem given it is water soluble, but I haven’t noticed any yet (and where I live is pretty humid). Does anyone else know of fluxes like this or have experience with this one? I’m guessing the idea is that you should probably wash it, but if you don’t get the board 100% clean it’s still ok.https://www.chipquik.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=310004

author: Rat_Patrol
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 06:44:29 pm
content: I use that exact flux.BUTIt doesn't clean 100% easily. There still seems to be a film. Best I've found to was it of is "Flux-Off Aqueous" in an ultrasonic cleaner at 60c temp for about 10 minutes.My current workflow:TS391AX10 solder paste (leaded, no clean) for use on populating the SMD components.Reflow, both sides if PCB calls for it.Soak PCB with SMD components reflowed in 91% IPA in a gasketed container for about 10 minutes.Wash in ultrasonic cleaner with Branson EC for 8 minutes at 60c.Rinse/dryAssemble THT components, I use Loctite HYDX SN63 3C 0.56mm R solder wire.Wash in ultrasonic cleaner with Flux-Off.Rinse/drytest PCBRe-work as needed, using the flux you use as needed.Re-wash in Flux-OffRinse/dryRe-testIf pass, final assembly for shipment.
PNP Neoden does not detect WSON-6 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: maykol
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 21, 2020, 01:14:10 am
content: The camera of my machine does not recognize this component that is 1.5X1.5 mm, I have already configured it in the component library and even so it does not.I don't know if this happened to you, the version of my machine is V4.1.3 B8. please help me!!!I am attaching an image of a VQFN-14 that also detects badly.

author: GEORGE12
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2020, 03:15:58 pm
content: go to the System setup and change the uplooking camera brightnessif the Flash light PCB of uplooking camera have adjustable Dip Switches, that also need to change and checkfrom the pic it seems the brightness of the flash light is not sufficient ...

author: maykol
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 22, 2020, 11:50:28 pm
content: Yes, with this I solved it. Thanks a lot..

author: Harjit
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2020, 08:07:01 pm
content: Can you show a picture of the same component with the new settings?
Buying a PnP that needs to be fixed? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mendez
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2020, 08:00:05 pm
content: Hey Guys,I have an opportunity to buy a Manncorp MC386 PnP for a reasonable price. Reasonable price means that I can probably brake even if I sell the feeders and parts of the machine individually.The Pnp is belt driven and the machine was working fine until the X-Y Homing failed. Basically it looks like a driver/servo problem. I was told that Manncorp are easy to work because most of their components can be found online by other vendors.I like the idea that the machine runs in 110V; has vision, and seems to be a good entry level machine for production. I built my own pnp last year and it works well but its slow and I have to babysit her a lot!My question is; how hard to fix a servo/driver on a Manncorp pnp ? Anyone?

author: SMdude
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2020, 10:28:51 pm
content: Well it depends how lucky you are at fixing stuff!When I want something, I often look for things that don't work in the hopes that I can fix them. So far this has worked really well!I bought an old Juki that had a problem. By the time it had shipped 2000klm it had more problems! So that became a bit like unscrambling an egg!I first fixed the obvious problems(leaked bios battery on mother board), including the original problem(bad/cracked solder on fet attached to power supply case, for main computer), but was still left with a communications fault between the user interface computer and the main machine CPU. I think it may have just been a board that had come out of it's socket a little while in transit. After I removed the main CPU board and checked out the comms area and soldered a few wires in place to check with a scope, it just worked, which I was very happy about!Had I not been able to sort it out, I would have been left with a very expensive to remove boat anchor!!!For the xy homing failed of the mancorp, homing sensors? Supply voltage lost to sensors?Do the x y axis still move?

author: mendez
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2020, 10:37:41 pm
content: The owner told me that there is a "test" software in the machine and he is able to send step/dir to X-Y and it moves but sometimes will fail in either axis. I wonder if is worth swaping the old servos, power supply and drivers and installing the a newer integrated servo/driver on it would work.
Machine parts - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: grimmjaw
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 07:06:08 am
content: Hi everybody,Anyone has suggestion for supplier of custom machine parts?I'm trying to get custom heatsink and plastic part manufactured, for prototype and mid-volume production

author: digsys
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 07:14:54 am
content: Not knowing what country you're in - but in aussie, our Aluminium supply centers will custom extrude pretty much any size shape you want, and cut it to length. Very reasonable charges. We'd also need more info about the size / shapes / type of plastic etc but country would help a lot :-)

author: grimmjaw
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 07:28:36 am
content: oooppss..just notice there is no flag under my name.Malaysia is the countryTypically I do ordered locally, but for some reason , the price for such customization have increased. Perhaps because of the Covid19 outbreak, limited raw material

author: emsnickw
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2020, 01:33:01 am
content: Quote from: blueskull on February 25, 2020, 07:37:47 am^great advice

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2020, 01:56:17 am
content: Quote from: emsnickw on March 09, 2020, 01:33:01 amexactly what i did. i keep few heatsink sizes. i bought 50x25x10mm heatsink so i can cut or combine them to suitable size, and some salvaged very large heatsink from old hifi unit, they are not cheap if buy new. any trashed electronics are gem, they like to trash money that they dont know how to reuse.

author: EEEnthusiast
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2020, 02:15:56 am
content: For prototype and mid volume production, I recommend to choose an existing enclosure from vendors and modify the PCB accordingly. This works out much cheaper.you can search on popular distributors for enclosures. There are thousands of them. I'm sure one of them will suit your size.
Alignment Holes in an Unframed Stencil - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: TimCambridge
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2020, 12:32:03 pm
content: For prototyping, I would like to order a PCB/stencil pair with matching 2mm or 3mm alignment holes in the PCB and the stencil.It's easy enough to add non-plated holes to the PCB and set the solder paste layer so there are matching holes, but will JLCPCB produce a stencil from the solder paste (GTP/GBP) gerber or do they process the solder mask gerber (GTS/GBS) gerber and use that?If they use the solder mask gerber(s) to produce stencils I expect I can get round that by ordering the stencil separately, but it would be good to know.Thanks.

author: Koen
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2020, 12:40:55 pm
content: Yes, order the stencil on the side by supplying a GTP or GBP. And add this in the comments :"按我的贴片层做，不要修改文件，谢谢！Please do not edit stencil ! 3mm holes are important ! Thank you !"

author: TimCambridge
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 12:23:41 am
content: I've just spotted this on the JLCPCB "How to order a stencil" page. That's what I want, custom tooling holesQuote

author: Koen
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2020, 09:42:44 am
content: Quick note : I ordered a stencil only from JLCPCB and it's been waiting for pickup for four days. If you only need that, maybehttps://portal.multi-circuit-boards.eu/Stencilwould be smarter.
PCBs not stored very well - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mpbrock
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2020, 02:30:49 pm
content: So I’ve had some bare PCBs stored for over 12 months just on a shelf in a damp environment and they’ve gone a bit crusty. What’s the best way of bringing them back to useable condition? Not sure if ultrasonic cleaning them might be an idea / pondering if they need baking etc as it’s probably absorbed lots of moisture

author: DenzilPenberthy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2020, 02:36:35 pm
content: What kind of 'crusty'? If the pads are tarnished and you've not got thousands to clean up then an abrasive rubber will clean them up ok.Something likehttps://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/pcb-cleaning-scrub-blocks/

author: GerardG
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2020, 03:25:23 pm
content: Hi,Crusty?Depends completely on the used finish. HASL will solder without any problem after a year.Immersion Ag will give you a problem.Gold finish can be cleaned. (if 2µ" gold thickness is used)

author: jmelson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2020, 11:25:55 pm
content: Quote from: mpbrock on February 14, 2020, 02:30:49 pmIf you will be reflowing them, then ABSOLUTELY baking is required. otherwise, they are VERY likely to blister. I bake boards at 50 C for one hour, then 70 C for 1-2 hours. Never had a blister after that treatment. If hand-soldering, don't worry about the bake-out.Jon

author: CharlieWorton
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2020, 10:48:18 pm
content: Acetone is my go-to for cleaning up PCBs. Not knowing what sorta crusty is on them makes it difficult to be more specific. If you need to brighten up the copper, autosol metal polish is absolutely amazing. I think every human should be issued a tube at birth, the stuff is so good. It will put a mirror finish on any metal. Check Amazon. And, of course, standard abrasive products like sandpaper and 3M potscrubbers.
Vicor DCDC modules on PCB....heatsink mounting method needed. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ocset
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2020, 08:41:46 pm
content: Hi,We are doing a Test PCB containing one Vicor BCM4414xH0E5035yzz module, which will feed 4 paralleled Vicor DCM3623x50M53C2yzz modules. (these are all DCDC modules)The BCM module will dissipate 84W. Each DCM module will dissipate 43W.We are going to need heatsinks on them. We think the best way would be to put 3mm NPT holes near the 4 corners of each module….and then use these to fit an aluminium heatsink plate over each module’s surface….ie screws and nuts/washers, to pressurize an aluminium plate against each module surface. Would you say this is the cheapest way to do it for this test (only) PCB?Also, the BCM module that we are using is the “board mount” version. (pg 39 and 40 of the datasheet). It appears that holes 10,11,12 & 13 are for screwing the module to the PCB…..then PTH pads 1,2,3 & 4 are for power input and output. But what are the screws for on pads 1,2,3 & 4?.......since the “board mount” version "solders" into the PCB…so why does it have these 4 screws at pad positions 1,2,3 & 4?Also, the BCM module diagram on page 40 of the datasheet appears to be trying to inform us what are the dimensions of the PTH pads……..can you tell what the PTH pad dimensions are from that diagram?.......surely a round PTH pad should be described by its drill diameter and its outer diameter. Unfortunately I cannot ascertain that info from that diagram, can you?DCM3623x50M53C2yzz Datasheet:http://www.vicorpower.com/documents/datasheets/DCM3623x50M53C2yzz_ds.pdfBCM4414xH0E5035yzz datasheet:http://www.vicorpower.com/documents/datasheets/ds-BCM4414xH0E5035yzz-VICOR.pdf
Electrical CL-Feeder how do they work? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2020, 11:58:13 am
content: Hi,can anyone describe how electrical cl-feeders work?I'd like to integrate a few 12/16/24mm wide feeders (although I'm looking for more information before I'm going to buy them).
Wiggly resistor legs - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mpbrock
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2020, 07:55:26 am
content: Why do some components (see the middle resistor) get formed with the "wiggly" or a "curved" part at the base, is this so when its pushed through the PCB its held into place before wave-soldering etc.. (kind of like clinching?). Also can anyone explain the difference between an F-type and a U-type bend?Many thanks in advance

author: donotdespisethesnake
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2020, 11:06:03 am
content: There are two reasons, stress relief and/or heat dissipation.

author: Kleinstein
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2020, 11:12:48 am
content: AFAIK the extra bends are there to have the wires no pushed all the way in to get some distance over the board. This could improve heat flow.The F bend form uses less board space, but can be a problem in precision circuits, as both ends of the resistor see a different temperature and this can cause some thermal EMF.

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2020, 03:07:47 pm
content: It is also a very old fashioned thing to do and of questionable utility. If you are dropping a lot of power through a resistor (i.e close to its limit) get the next size up or if its a big resistor you should probably be putting it on ceramic spacers anyway. If its a precision/sensitive circuit, SMT is calling you.
TQFP128 to PQFP128 smd adapter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: swag
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 04, 2020, 12:42:53 pm
content: I recently ran in to a little snafu at work and am trying to put it right. I was looking for an Isplsi 1048EA-100LQ and got an offer from infinite-electronics.hk who stopped answering emails after we paid. Further, it appears they offered me a 1048E and not a 1048EA and I overlooked that. So, worst case, they skip out with my €300, best case, they send the part and it doesn’t actually work.Anyway, I found a different supplier with some 1048EA-100LT parts which are TQFP128 instead of PQFP128. I wonder if anyone knows of an SMD Adapter from TQFP128 to PQFP128?The reason I need to do this is for an old semiconductor processing tool. This controller board is buried deep in the system and has one of these on it. It’s funny because on the PCB there are resettable polyfuses on nearly every output with the exception of the outputs to the darlington array going to the light tree. And when they moved the tool last, nobody noticed that the riggers smashed the light tree and caused a short which fries. The array and the FPGA. And since the company that made the tool doesn’t exist anymore, I’m trying to fix it.I know. Long shot and a long story. Sorry.If anyone knows of such an adapter, though, I would be much appreciative.-Sam

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2020, 01:40:59 pm
content: Sounds like a job for one of those masochistic modders who likes soldering 100s of leads/balls with enameled wire, an adapter between two such similar packages does seem a stretch.

author: Koen
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2020, 02:08:52 pm
content: Quote from: swag on February 04, 2020, 12:42:53 pmI searched reviews ofinfinite-electronics.hksix months ago and nearly all reviews claimed it was a scam.Like so :https://www.trustpilot.com/review/infinite-electronic.com

author: swag
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 04, 2020, 02:54:45 pm
content: I wish I had thought to search for reviews prior to ordering. I was just so happy to find some NOS that I fell for it hook line and sinker. It seems like rather a lot of effort for the scam, though reading that some people have wired thousands of dollars to them, maybe it is lucrative enough.Well, I've ordered a pack of five TQFP128s. Either we solder direct with wire, or create a fanout adapter. The new order was with paypal on ebay, so at least I have a chance of recouping it if its another scam. Fingers crossed.-Sam

author: hli
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2020, 08:46:07 pm
content: Since the TQFP body is 14mm wide, and the PQFP 28mm, an adapter board does not seem to be complicated. Probably use castellated holes for the PQFP part so you can solder it more easily to your PCB. Or use a flexible PCB (instead Dave did a recent video on just that use-case...)
Digi-key now offerring surplus parts - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2020, 12:21:15 am
content: Digi-key now sells parts from a seller "Chip Outpost":https://www.digikey.ca/en/chip-outpostIts very clear when you order, they will warn you that the product is coming from another seller.I'm assuming all of the parts are NOS. I've ordered a few and see what shows up.You'll have a few years to test it at least:QuoteQuoteNot sure why it needs to be categorized differently.I guess there is a risk with older date codes and receiving obsolete parts or not properly stored components?edit: I thought at first it was a third party company, but it is owned by digikey,https://trademarks.justia.com/779/80/chip-77980516.html
Panelized board with Kicad : duplicated references - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ratatax
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2020, 11:12:59 pm
content: I'm facing a little problem with Kicad, my project has 4 different PCBs and to save cost I'm preparing a panel containing 2*4 PCBs with breaking tabs.I use pcbnew and the "Append board" feature to add my boards into a bigger one.It seems to work fine but the component designators are conflicting with each other, since each board has been designed as a separate project so I end up with several C1, C2, C3 etc. in the Pick&Place file:Theoritically, since each line has the package, component value and position, there is no confusion possible even with the identical names. But it feels a bit weird.Should I do something about it ? Or can I submit it to a PCB assembly service like PCBWay without them complaining about it?

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2020, 11:23:05 am
content: Either generate pick and place files for each PCB in the panel or make your PCB references contiguous instead starting from 1 each time. You can't have duplicates unless by some miracle their software/P&P uses someting other than the designator as a index, and why would it when that's what its for?

author: kylehunter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2020, 01:30:34 am
content: Yeah, I do the same in KiCad, and it does the same for me. You can do what SMTech suggests with separate data, or just leave it. Our assembleon pick and place doesn't mind that there's duplicates, but ymmv.

author: SMTech
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2020, 06:40:40 pm
content: Our Essemtec certainly would mind, and our previous machine would have minded too. As standard I would expect p&p data to be for a single PCB design it makes life easier in many ways and going forwards makes it simpler to track changes or add those designs into other panels, handle crossouts, share that data with AOI etc etc. In your example its particularly unfriendly as its not like they are ordered by sub-assembly, you can't tell quickly which device is on which board.Various assembly houses can be different kinds of fussy, PCBWay/JLC seem to have a very set way of working and you match up with their rules and data formats or nothing happens (no doubt helps with the training/automation). However they aren't really looking at creating a product in their systems and tracking changes like a normal assembly house might so whose to say? However you also don't know if they are putting your panel inside yet another larger panel and if the tools they use to do that dislike your duplicate idents.In our place, we (well, I) would edit your file and add my own reference in place of yours, it would be slightly annoying if you then wanted to tweak values as I'd need to cross reference whatever you told us with the original data but not a huge issue and it would save me having to setup the locations of each board within your panel.Look what Gemini wantshttps://www.geminitec.co.uk/images/Customer_Files/G-Tec_Engineering_Data_Packs_Issue_1.pdf
PNP ZB4050LS & SMT660  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: TIOUK
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2020, 07:44:36 pm
content: So, the SMT660 is oem Huawei Beijing Guochang, does anyone know if the ZB4050LS is an oem or produced internally by Huaqi Zhengbang?Thanks

author: 48X24X48X
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2020, 07:59:47 pm
content: Last I checked with HWGC, ZB is no longer their OEM partner somewhere around 2019. The ZB4050LS was released end of 2019.Oddly enough, ZB sales person denied they were using HWGC machine.

author: TIOUK
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2020, 02:41:28 pm
content: Thanks for the info.
Leads on PCB manufacturer that does Z-milling? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: shai
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2020, 03:22:50 pm
content: I'm looking to get some PCBs made and would like to do z-milling on them to a certain depth like the attached picture. I know PCBWay does this. Does anyone know any other GOOD suppliers that do this? It seems to be hard to come by (at least for me).I would also imagine if I wanted to buy a CNC machine designed for PCB milling (desktop type) and mill these myself for a larger production run, it would probably not be the best idea since I am using FR4 and it is hazardous to inhale due to the micro fiberglass dust? Anyone have experience milling PCBs to comment on this?Thanks!

author: Alex Eisenhut
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2020, 02:08:50 am
content: ICAPE can tell you if they have a factory that can do that. They are a broker and I've sent out a couple of designs to them and the result is very good.https://www.icape-group.com/

author: ANTALIFE
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2020, 03:45:14 am
content: Silly question, if you are trying to achieve what's on your picture, why not just use a rigid-flex PCB?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2020, 12:20:38 am
content: Quote from: shai on January 20, 2020, 03:22:50 pmYou'd want a good vacuum ventilation system to remove any dust created and filter with HEPA filter.Its hazardous to inhale and will also destroy the machine if it starts to fall into the leadscrews/internal areas of the CNC.https://community.carbide3d.com/t/is-machining-printed-circuit-board-pcb-material-e-g-fr4-garolite-dangerous/167/6I would speculate that its not worth it for a large production run, it may be worth it for prototyping small volumes or testing various cut designs.
Looking for Fischer Elektronik KOW2 case - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: thinkfat
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 28, 2020, 09:26:54 am
content: Hi,does anyone know a distributor, preferably in the EU, who stocks Fischer Elektronik KO W 2 aluminium housing parts?I checked the usual suspects already: RS, TME, Distrelec, Conrad, Farnell, Reichelt, Pollin.

author: fcb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2020, 10:24:05 am
content: I've used DAU in the UK before.https://www.dau-components.co.uk
Ideas for PCB production logging software; components/notes logging - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Rat_Patrol
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2020, 10:05:13 pm
content: Before I go build a spreadsheet, anybody have ideas for software for what I need:I need to track individual PCBs (stickers with SNs), plus components currently in use for PCB production, production notes on individual boards, when I change out a spool of components, etc. Basically, track everything that is going into the production of my product. It will be used for tracking down issues, keeping track of failure rates of components from different suppliers, warranty work done, etc.I use Quickbooks Pro for normal book keeping, but I don't see how that would be applicable here. Once products are sold, they get a new serial number, nothing to do with individual PCB serial numbers, so that is a completely separate system.Anything out there in the open source/cheap category that may do what I need to do w/o me building a spreadsheet from scratch? I just ordered a USB barcode scanner, which should all but eliminate data entry errors.

author: Mangozac
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2020, 10:17:23 pm
content: What kind of volume are you talking (boards per year)?

author: Rat_Patrol
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2020, 10:30:59 pm
content: Maybe 2000/yr if I were optimistic with business growth.Average about 10/wk currently.They just have to be meticulously tested since they are industrial. QC is very important, which means tracking down under-performing components and bad batches of components.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2020, 12:21:38 am
content: such a thing is called a PLM tool. Product Lifecycle Management.Tracks all the subcomponents, what is used where and the final products.you can pick a serial number and see exactly the entire history, what design files were used, what parts, where they were bought , datasheets , manufacturing dates of the parts,pricing...it is a massive relational database running on big iron (Oracle). Windchill, Enovia, Arena.
Trimming screwdrivers - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ivan747
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 22, 2020, 12:32:53 pm
content: So I work with a product that gets manufactured and has to be trimmed by hand. I'm having trimming issues and I think part of the problem is that the design is a single turn pot, yet the screwdrivers I'm using to trim are too long and thin, so I don't have enough precision. Do you guys know where can I get screwdrivers more suited to the task? It's a flathead, about 2mm wide.

author: Pseudobyte
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 22, 2020, 02:53:26 pm
content: I usually can get the job done with either one of these:https://www.amazon.com/Aven-13016-Piece-Anti-Static-Alignment/dp/B001Q4YGQS/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=esd+alignment+tool+set&qid=1579704651&sr=8-2or one of these:https://www.amazon.com/Wera-1578-Electronics-Screwdriver-6-Piece/dp/B001552GOC/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1P6XXURQLRPTD&keywords=wera+esd+screwdriver+set&qid=1579704743&sprefix=wera+esd%2Caps%2C155&sr=8-2

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 22, 2020, 03:07:52 pm
content: +1 for the Weras. They dont flex. Max precision.

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 22, 2020, 09:00:00 pm
content: It sounds as if the trim range of the pot is too wide (assuming that there isn't wide variance in the product requiring a very wide trim range). A modification of the design with end resistors and a lower value pot to reduce the trim range would ease your problems.If you're finding the trim that critical, then the product it may have problems with vibration in the field.Another practical way to improve sensitivity of adjustment is to slip some thick rubber sleeving/tubing over the handle of the trimming too. Then your fingers can roll over a larger distance for a given rotation.
Soldering iron pinout - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kuha
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 14, 2020, 03:52:37 pm
content: I got two soldering irons without controllers and I have a plan to make controller to use these irons. Irons are Weller WSP80 and Ersa pincette 40.Both irons are specified for 24V and have 6 pins in connector and I measured resistance between all pin pair combinations.In WSP80 there is two pin pair with resistance. Resistance in first pair is ~3ohms and in second pair ~22ohms so first pair should be thermocoupler and second pair heating element. But if power of iron is 80W we can get only ~25W power with 24V and resistance only increase when iron heats up. So does anyone know is the heating element burned out or is there something else I dont understand?In picette 40 I found also two pin pairs with resistance. Resistance of the first pair is ~10ohms and in second pair ~1kohms. First pair is clearly heating element and I thought that second pair would be thermistor but when I heated the iron up I couldnt measure any difference in that 1k resistance. Does anyone know how temp measuring of this iron works or is that iron ruined?

author: djnz
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2020, 11:46:14 am
content: Have you seen this:https://www.diyaudio.com/archive/blogs/googlyone/1160-diy-weller-wsp80-wp80-soldering-station.html

author: kuha
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 17, 2020, 05:28:34 pm
content: Thanks! That helped a lot with WSP80.Now I'm just wondering how pincette 40 works. I measured the ~10 ohms resistor again with better multimeter in room temp and in boiling water. Resistances were 4.85 and 5.65 ohms, so it's changing about 0.01ohms/C. Is it possible that same resistance is used both heating and measuring? But then I don't know what is that 1k resistance or is it just burned heating element?