hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Good Books/Resources - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: Seph.b
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2018, 11:36:06 pm
content: Hi,I have been designing electronics for escape rooms for the past few years. My background is in CS, but I am happy that programming is only a part of my job now. My skills have been steadily advancing and I can design circuits and PCBs that are functional now without much effort.My problem is not having classical training in EE I don't know the edge cases and weird problems that arise when someone that doesn't even know how to check continuity with a DMM gets a hold of my circuits. I would love to be able to have circuits that were robust against incorrect wiring and being attached to very long runs of wires. Also be able to read though datasheet easier and implement the reference designs while actually knowing what each thing is doing and have a better feeling for the equations that govern what I am doing.I am getting better at all of this stuff, but mostly just putting together information from various informal sources online and trying not to let the magic smoke escape.Can anyone recommend any books that would fit this description? Something above a 101 level, but not targeted at EE pros?Thanks and please let me know if you need any clarification on what I am looking for.

author: ez24
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2018, 01:38:30 am
content: --->

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2018, 05:08:48 am
content: The Art of Electronics is generally considered a good one.

author: Seph.b
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2018, 07:32:48 pm
content: Thanks.

author: tpowell1830
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2018, 07:50:08 pm
content: Welcome to the forum Seph.b, do a search (Amazon, Google, etc) for Forrest Mims. Good beginner, but not necessarily newbie books.

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2018, 08:03:05 pm
content: I'd almost forgotten about those, I had the green Mims book when I was a kid, I got a lot of use out of that.

author: Seph.b
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2018, 09:13:06 pm
content: Thanks for the welcome. I will look for both of those books.

author: sintax69
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 25, 2018, 03:23:52 am
content: This is also a good book,Practical Electronics for Inventors (4th Edition 2016) by Paul Scherz, Simon MonkThis and the art of electronics and the googles is all you need to start

author: rdl
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2018, 03:49:04 am
content: A very good textbook is "Electronic Principles" by Dr. Albert Malvino. I wouldn't spend the money for the latest edition though, being a textbook means it will be expensive. The older editions are fine and you can pick up a copy cheap.
Good buy ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: Gp!
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2018, 01:19:43 pm
content: Hi,I am beginning to piece together my beginners hobbyist lab and I was wondering if this is a good offer ...https://www.batterfly.com/shop/rigol-ds1054zThanks for your opinion.

author: hexreader
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2018, 01:24:50 pm
content: IMHOYes, good offer....Sadly I bought without free options. Could hack all options for free, but nicer to be legitimate.Assumes hobby use. Not a professional tool IMHO.

author: Adrian_Arg.
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2018, 02:06:16 pm
content: It is a good offer, I buy it here and from there I send it to Argentina.https://www.tequipment.net/Rigol/DS1054Z/Digital-Oscilloscopes/. price student

author: mauroh
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2018, 02:27:19 pm
content: You can't go wrong with the Rigol DS1054z and at the moment batterfly has the lowest price with free options in EU, AFAIK. Bought mine from batterfly few years agoI don't agree on the non professional use. If you stay within the bandwidth limit it is a perfectly capable tool.I use it at work every day without any issue.Mauro

author: Gp!
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2018, 02:53:12 pm
content: Thanks !I am only "worried" about it being obsolete. As Batterfly has reduced the price twice just recently I am wondering if something new is one the way with better performance but at the same price. That would annoy me somewhat,Having said that the reviews are generally very good and more than adequate for my os why not ?Am I right ?

author: mauroh
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2018, 10:37:09 pm
content: Ok, this is another story...I can't call it obsolete and I think it is a really good tool for the price, but you could be right an rigol, siglent an some other player can release a new competitor scope in the near future.See this for instance...https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/what-new-in-the-$400-dso-world-for-20172018/msg1334104/#msg1334104Or this...https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/siglent-sds1204x-e-released-for-domestic-markets-in-china/msg1459256/#msg1459256So if you are not in hurry waiting few months it could be a good idea.Mauro

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2018, 10:39:27 pm
content: Just be aware Batterfly tends to advertise prices without VAT. That puts the prices on par with other sellers. Buying locally can often be more interesting due to warranty being less of a hassle.

author: rstofer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2018, 01:57:40 am
content: Quote from: mauroh on March 31, 2018, 10:37:09 pmAnd then wait another few months just to see if something else comes along...Drive a stake in the ground and move on! This just isn't a big decision in the scheme of things and something new will always be right around the corner.

author: Gp!
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 09, 2018, 04:27:07 pm
content: Drove the stake into the ground and moved on !Very happy man!Thanks to all for the nudge !
Good cheap place to order 12 AWG 680/0.08 cable? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: SharpEars
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 03, 2015, 01:15:59 pm
content: I ordered from Ali Express and got 65/0.25 (known as 65/30 in the US) under the guise of 680/0.08. Paid about $2.10 USD per meter. Resistance measured horribly, but the wire was at least the right diameter.Is there a good (perhaps Chinese seller) that people have ordered fine stranded tinned copper wire from and gotten what they ordered? Ebay and ali-express are OK, as long as you've dealt with the company before and they've actually sent you the cable you ordered.Thanks in advance for any advice.

author: Fank1
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2015, 11:30:41 pm
content: Try searching for "SIS" wire.Switchboard and Instrumentation Service

author: rickselectricalprojects
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 04, 2015, 08:59:55 am
content: Ebay is your best friend (well maybe not actually) but they might have the gauge you are looking for but i would recommend your local electronics store if they have itHope this helpsSent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

author: notsob
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 04, 2015, 09:08:03 am
content: try hobbyking.com they have various sizes and colours in silicon wire and sell by the metre

author: SharpEars
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 10, 2015, 06:04:44 pm
content: Quote from: rickselectricalprojects on August 04, 2015, 08:59:55 amThe biggest problem with eBay is people advertising copper and selling you CCA or steel. They get away with this because most people do not measure the resistance of the wire they receive.
Good Courses for LTspice and cricut design - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: Xenon_K
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 21, 2025, 02:12:50 pm
content: Hi,I would like to learn LTspice. I'm currently at a beginner level and would like to understand the program very well, since I will probably be working on part of my bachelor's thesis with it next semester. Can anyone recommend a good course? I would prefer to take a structured course rather than searching for individual videos on YouTube. Does anyone have any recommendations?Additionally, I’m looking for a course that teaches how to properly design circuits — such as how to read datasheets, how to select the correct values for resistors, etc., and how to build circuits in general.Thanks a lot!

author: hugo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2025, 12:59:45 am
content: To get the wheels spinning:LTspice Tutorial by Simon Bramble:https://www.simonbramble.co.uk/lt_spice/ltspice_lt_spice.htmlLTspice tutorial by FesZ Electronics:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLT84nve2j1g_wgGcm0Bv3K4RSl2JdjseyLTwiki for LTspice:https://ltwiki.org/index.php?title=Main_Page

author: djsb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2025, 04:30:40 am
content: https://groups.io/g/LTspice
good entry level power supplies - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: ckuhn1
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 27, 2013, 03:31:47 am
content: Hey I was wondering if anyone had any good suggestions for an entry level bench power supply. I shouldn't need more than 15 volts at 1 amp, but it should have a digital display to view both. Thanks for your suggestions.
Good Function Generator to buy nowadays for USD $300 or thereabouts? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: hurricanehenry
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2014, 08:20:02 pm
content: Hi - I read some threads here on FG purchase but they were a few years old.Considering this industry, I'd like to know what is a decent buy nowadays?Budget $300 USD or thereabouts.A bit about where I'm at: I have read a number of intro electronics books, and I keep reading them even though a lot of the material is just repeated for me, but I can pick up new bits from each book. Now I am more on the hands on stage and experimenting with diodes, transistors, etc. After this fooling around stage I will get into micro controller hobbyist programming and experimentation (definitely), and also HAM radio (maybe). And maybe try to fix some devices I have around the home, etc.So I have an oscilloscope (Rigol DS2000 series) and want a FG so that I have a known signal source with which I can better understand the basic discrete components, and also prototype things I think of.Advice appreciated.Thanks.

author: valentinc
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 19, 2014, 02:26:39 am
content: Hi,For that money you could buy a Hantek HDG2002B... It is hackable and it has digital outputs too... Which can be handy... The software is not the best, but I think for the money is a good choice...Another option is a Siglent SDG1020... Which has pretty much the same functions except the harmonic... and the digital... It depends what frequency range do you want to cover...

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 19, 2014, 02:37:41 am
content: The Siglent SDG800 series(1 output) is a cheaper version of the SDG1000 series(2 outputs)The Siglent SDG810 (10MHz) is just under US$300 and SDG830(30MHz) just over.They both seem well accepted as good AWG's on EEVblog.

author: hurricanehenry
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 19, 2014, 07:58:42 am
content: Thanks; having trouble getting price on the Hantek (to compare) or where to buy new one with authorized warranty.

author: valentinc
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 19, 2014, 09:59:16 am
content: The Hantek can be found on ebay... About the authorized warranty, if you're outside China... There is a problem with the shipping... Same about the Siglent... But I wouldn't worry about that...
Good magnetometer for the esp32 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: Rapidice
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 06, 2021, 03:53:14 pm
content: Hi,For the project, I'm currently working on I am looking for a magnetometer. For my prototype, I have used an HMC5883L(breakout board), which worked pretty well. Now, I would like to design a PCB. For this reason, I am looking for a magnetometer(SMD), which is similar to the HMC5883L and would work with an ESP32(3.3v). I would prefer to buy it from lcsc.com, which is where I buy most of my components. I don't need this specific one, just one that is easy to use (and preferably have an arduino library).Thanks

author: BitsnBytes
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2021, 05:23:02 pm
content: You know ESP32 has an internal Hall effect sensor?Did you try that for your application?

author: Rapidice
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 06, 2021, 07:40:51 pm
content: I want to use the sensor as a compass, to measure the robot's rotation, for which the internal hall effect sensor is not accurate enough.
Good PC software for basic audio spectrum visualization. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: buck converter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2017, 03:36:35 pm
content: I am looking into doing a science fair to see what a fan does to audio at various speeds. (if you don't know what i'm talking about, go talk into a fan). I don't have a digital oscilloscope, but I found a nice app for my Android that looks nice, but i'm looking for a basic software that could work with my laptops audio input. I does not have to be free, but less than $10 or free trial.

author: PChi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2017, 04:23:33 pm
content: A couple of options are Audacityhttps://sourceforge.net/projects/audacity/and Artahttp://www.artalabs.hr/. They can both show an FFT plot of level versus frequency. There are others as well.

author: jimmc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2017, 04:39:47 pm
content: Another free one... Visual Analyserhttp://www.sillanumsoft.org/

author: g0mgx
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2017, 06:50:30 am
content: This is a ham radio targeted app but its very good:http://www.rfspace.com/RFSPACE/SpectraVue.html

author: ruairi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2017, 08:38:21 am
content: Room EQ Wizard (REW) is my favorite. It's free, very very powerful and looks great. It also have a very large user community so the support is good.https://www.roomeqwizard.com

author: macboy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2017, 04:02:26 pm
content: Look for something that does a spectrum "waterfall". You may be able to see the modulating effect over time.

author: b_force
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2017, 06:58:49 pm
content: ARTA is all you need for all your acoustic measurements.Much better than REW (imo)http://www.artalabs.hr/index.htm

author: ruairi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2017, 07:32:11 pm
content: Quote from: b_force on September 18, 2017, 06:58:49 pmNot to derail the O.P.'s thread but I'm curious what you find better about Arda (genuinely). I've used Arta for some acoustic work but it was an older version and while it worked I didn't find it to be great, I was a Fuzzmeasure user at the time. REW is my go to and I haven't found anything I wanted to do that I couldn't.

author: b_force
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2017, 07:42:33 pm
content: Quote from: ruairi on September 18, 2017, 07:32:11 pmI guess more freedom, but mostly it simple has more under the hood so to speak.So you can use ARTA also for general electronics (amplifiers and so on) and acoustics.REW is/was a bit more focused on speaker measurements only.I never liked the REW interface and looks, very confusing and not professional looking.But things have changed a lot the last few years to be very honest.So my advice is try them both.
Good places to buy practice SMD boards - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: alice_chain
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 27, 2018, 04:42:03 am
content: Hey guys, I have been buying practice kits for through-hole component practice from places like Jaycar Electronics and they have helped with my soldering technique but I want to get better at SMD soldering and Jaycar doesn't really have kits for this. I did buy a cheap on off Ebay but the chips were pretty bad as they wouldn't sit flush with the board etc. I really want to improve my drag soldering and the board itself doesn't have to function(ie light up, make a beeping sound etc) like the Jaycar kits. Any good online vendors or local places(I live in Melbourne, Australia) have something like this? I saw a good Elecrow board that Dave used in an SMD video but the actual board I couldn't find on their website. Something like this:Thanks heaps in advance!

author: whalphen
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2018, 05:08:51 am
content: Search for 'Welding Practice Board' at AliExpress. You'll find lot's of them. I use them with grade school students while teaching them about electronics. Another way is to layout a circuit, get some boards made, buy some cheap chips and go at it. I sometimes use reject or leftover blank PCBs when teaching the students.
Good places to post your product - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: JamesP
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 25, 2018, 07:52:05 am
content: I've started selling my first product on tindie (https://www.tindie.com/products/11279/, for those who are interested). And i was wondering if there are any good places to post this kind of thing?
Good quality cutters for Kynar, general PCB tidy-up? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: alanambrose
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2019, 05:39:39 pm
content: Recommendations anyone? Small-ish, flush-ish, hard-wearing?Swanstrom? Wiha? It doesn't look like Knipex do small cutters...

author: TERRA Operative
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2019, 06:31:03 pm
content: http://www.engineer.jp/en/products/nz03_e.htmlI love the NZ-05 cutters, tiny, flush and good quality.I use them all the time for small wire, SMD stuff and cutting small details in plastic and copper etc.

author: netdudeuk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2019, 06:52:54 pm
content: I like thesehttps://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Adafruit-Hakko-Professsional-Quality-20-30-AWG-Wire-Strippers-ADA527/232427227895?epid=1243527532&hash=item361dbe0af7:g:hWwAAOSwA35ZeyKW#rwidHowever, I mostly use the cutter on one these when I use that wirehttps://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/WSU-Wire-Wrap-Strip-Unwrap-Tool-For-AWG-30-Wire-Cable-Prototyping-Wrapping-Hand/382095185432?epid=1494852087&hash=item58f6a5d618&enc=AQADAAADAFjVrDbVsZ8oH%2F8PNHtt9VX4%2Fw7FZcmMuqsX8uaFEduVXSSd%2B5xwisvXK5HQm3re5%2FRMUpPlVwq8IO3P7FyX9h4%2FqzzqmexB2Lei1dtwvC%2BkOhIa429De7XPajM9hcOUckDhImaSmGEtG6QUb5i8uqtU3TSvfV3KW9JtuJL9%2B7PahrKPi1rwV10DwP6Uz9Myd9tx%2FBPwT%2FW5p47Ia4n0qo5TFfReI2Izr%2BJf1LkV3slmek5x6VObl1CiJhZ0%2FDjH6TcxdAfSmDT5ZLewnMpR65llwjvaUUC11YPwbXQtpHdXz00AbURARTg7ZuvdQmff%2BMPG0HaRuHZ%2BAXNDqD4Hjd%2BgX05pRqCbIaYqto25T9T6%2FEVrt1Y1YUrSFzSesplmeTPW4E0Dj4fvRaq%2FiRPucvrvuk7IdWWQv%2FOBvZ32kkUdC6VEOF7n9kg85YkJOgb%2FnkVoe7NGpa3z6Gs5xxNcBwWeUoz%2BO5DyIoHJr3pg3hHWGOH%2F4ogn2GowupP%2BluoEjFUsU5RjmYlakJBwgXH5tI4CS5%2BByV3A5ckj660x2zNQUVdUE7bclUPtVJ4htijCHakNhCEKK98SeUPFH%2FPz6z1cgGF5NmHDqJt1fJwz9TjmHFEmaDRdY5OLlxXErlLcNG1B4CXlFd1TZ5zaYNkt6rhP3D5q90dwk8dYnxX57LtCLwguRqXJEyYPaoc7qOUeWVp6zKGqrcY3rs11K0%2Fwi2snWYsCOpVedYP7vKodzjsuclfw6mJl0cNWTiFb49586zIi0h29%2B%2FgnnuGWpeM%2BUu34ufYvSdhviwypKR4IXnTqmK3M%2BlkfVyDD8ncCsmjlAYn48MkZiz3Gu4cn3V0AC7FBWkf24L5%2FyVOepvy5Uh4tBUHEyPFv%2BIg%2BbBxPxA7eQlS38OqtiLJv%2B%2BIBYQhIy1ARNybLCEB4WrBl9gq2t99eMdrK6o8E3w1qO%2BBzs7XbJ0i0A65MdKBgnDKeu4XRKvp%2B%2F14XAZBHV97sptpE7IYpJYA1zOLkiblABE3DEW6nkQ%3D%3D&checksum=3820951854329728b57afbfa45eeb0cc4d0d7f89ad96
Good quality test hooks for LA - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: dav
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2016, 07:30:56 am
content: I just bought a LA which comes with a few 1 cent poor quality test hooks, so I would buy a new good quality set.Any suggestions?Thanks

author: Signal32
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2016, 08:00:07 am
content: I would recommend thesehttp://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/teledyne-lecroy/PK400-3/PK400-3-ND/2796194for probing down to .2mmHowever if you don't want to spend more on the probes than you did on the LA the best option I found is:http://www.ebay.com/itm/-/291782132186-- Wide opening, low resistance(not that you should care for logic), thin shaft, and perhaps most importantly strong metal so it won't become useless after a few uses. You probably won't find better for less than 5x the priceThis also is worth considering:http://www.ebay.com/itm/-/272155619895They are rebranded E-Z Hooks(http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/e-z-hook/XKMGRY/461-1011-ND/528232) , they have lower quality plastic & softer, lower quality metalThis model is quite bad, stay away,http://www.ebay.com/itm/-/361317838309PS: These TPI Nano-Pincers seem decent for the price, anyone have experience with them:http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/tpi-test-products-int/NC1R/290-1108-ND/299989?

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2016, 08:11:52 am
content: The standard Tek grabbers work fine down to SOIC but struggle to be fine/small enough for finer pitch SMD IC's.http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tektronix-TEK-SMT-KlipChip-Adapter-Mini-Test-Grabber-40V-206-0364-01-/191815713568?hash=item2ca91b8320:g:KuoAAOSwPc9W04fLThey have 0.025" pins for cable connection and these can be sourced from the likes of Digikey.

author: wraper
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 02, 2016, 08:32:03 am
content: Watch for cheap surplus HP/Agilent hooks appearing on ebay. Few years ago got pack of 20 Agilent branded for around $16 IIRC. If you compare, most of the cheap micrograbbers have cloned outer look.http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2047675.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.H0.X5090-4356+agilent.TRS0&_nkw=5090-4356+agilent&_sacat=0
Good quick/simple over voltage solutions? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2014, 05:50:10 pm
content: This is something I've begun to wonder about recently, are there any fairly simple DIY over voltage solutions you can rig up yourself without using something like a fuse? I have a replica portal gun I want to add a DC power jack to at some point when I have a display case, rigging up some over voltage protection to cut out if the input went over 4.6 volts would be handy.If I used an LM317 to do this it would be simpler (and allow a much larger range of power supplies to be hooked up, not precisely the right one), but if there was a smaller solution, I could probably fit it in the battery compartment, and not need to take the whole thing apart which would mean breaking the plastic welds holding the shell on. That would allow for some more customization but I am still having trouble bringing myself to do it. if I did neodymium magnets would probably work fairly well to keep it on, that first step of cutting it off though (and getting a small blade up in there to do it) is something I am squeamish about doing.I'm guessing there are maybe some small IC's or a small board on ebay that you can program to cut off power if the voltage exceeds a specific amount, just not sure what exactly to search for.

author: theatrus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2014, 06:25:45 pm
content: Zener diode and a PTC/Fuse. PTC first, zener to clamp the voltage.

author: Holograph
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2014, 06:27:57 pm
content: Quote from: theatrus on April 22, 2014, 06:25:45 pmThis is exactly what I was thinking - assuming the thing isn't drawing a whole lot of current. Is it basically just to run some LED lighting?

author: Unixon
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2014, 06:34:53 pm
content: A proper TVS instead of zener would work even better.

author: theatrus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2014, 07:13:00 pm
content: A TVS would be better, as they're designed to absorb more energy in short durations.http://www.digikey.com/product-search/en/circuit-protection/tvs-diodes/655429Take your pick!

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 22, 2014, 08:06:39 pm
content: PTC fuse, zener diode and crowbar thyristor. Add reverse voltage protection diode as well.
Good sites for beginners - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: McPete
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 28, 2010, 08:56:11 am
content: Perusing these and other forums, we all occasionally see a beginner who need some basic theory help to get rolling. I'm no different, having absolutely no class time on analogue electronics. I had access to a few very maths-heavy theory books, and not a lot else. While I now have the "The Art of Electronics" and the student manual to go with it, I found this site very helpful;http://electronics.wisc-online.com/Having no traction of analogue electronics, finding this website, along with "The Art" is a substantial leg-up onto understanding analogue circuits.If anyone else has some sites that may offer insights to those new to the game, please post them up!P.

author: easilyconfused
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 29, 2010, 03:12:30 am
content: That is a helpful site. Thank you for posting it.

author: djsb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 29, 2010, 09:38:52 pm
content: These free pdf books may also be usefulhttp://www.ibiblio.org/kuphaldt/electricCircuits/index.htmDavid.

author: Johnny26
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 31, 2010, 08:04:57 am
content: Thanks djsb for those resources.
Is soldering flux with zinc chloride harmful for the soldering joints? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: robsims
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2022, 11:53:30 am
content: Hi, i have a pot of soldering flux. The description says that it is acid free, but it contains zinc chloride. I attached the PDF with the specs. The residue can be washed off with water. Can i use it for soldering electronics? If not what are the specs of a good soldering flux for electronics. Many thanks

author: bidrohini
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2022, 01:06:42 am
content: As far as I know, zinc chloride is acidic in nature and not recommended for electronics.

author: Stray Electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2022, 01:25:30 am
content: It works but it does lead to corrosion of steel. I've used it just to experiment but I wouldn't recommend it. You can't wash it all out, trust me!Table salt is "acid free" too but I'm sure you already know how corrosive it is.

author: jonpaul
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2022, 01:37:31 am
content: use only rosin flux designated for electronicsj

author: wraper
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 14, 2022, 01:43:54 am
content: Not suitable for electronics. It's very conductive and corrosive. Also chlorine ions will embed into PCB and you won't be able to wash them out.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2022, 11:01:38 am
content: Quote from: jonpaul on December 14, 2022, 01:37:31 amIncorrect.Here’s a better statement: “use only flux designated for electronics”. Not all electronics fluxes are rosin-based. Many no-clean fluxes are use synthetic resin instead of rosin, or contain no resin or rosin at all!The only electronics flux to avoid for hobbyist/nonexpert use is water-soluble flux.

author: jonpaul
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2022, 11:05:27 am
content: correction, sorry...we have used only rosin based flux in cored solder, eg Kester 44.Solder pot and liquid flux, can be water based or not rosin.For electronics soldering or rework, all flux must be specifically designed for electronics use, not metalworking or plumbing!Jon

author: Benta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2022, 11:28:20 am
content: Zink chloride is for plumbing and roofing, NOT for electronics.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2022, 11:34:29 am
content: Quote from: jonpaul on December 14, 2022, 11:05:27 amSo can flux core in solder wire. It’s not all rosin, far from it.
Good Starting Variable Power Supply - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: ZetaRayZed
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 23, 2023, 06:44:01 pm
content: I am sorry if this has been answered before I tried looking through the beginner post, but came up empty-handed. What would be a reliable Cheaper Option for supplies between 30-60V and 5/10A Switching Power supply.. I had an older one made from straight chineseium but it did its job valiantly..that is until it was stolen. Some options I've been looking at include the DPS6505U 60v/5A (I have attempted to attach a screenshot of the PS with this post), the lowest I would like to go as far as power availability is 30V-5 to 6A preferably.. If anyone can help point me in the right direction for a suitable first-time Variable Power Supply even older ones with more recognizable names would be great... Thanks, everyone glad to be a part of this community and look forward to starting my own adventures with tinkering again!!

author: LooseJunkHater
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 24, 2023, 06:46:25 pm
content: IMO, you should look more toward digital supplies vs analog (potentiometer) supplies, simply for quality of life. I recently purchased the RD6012PW as it's a digital supply, lowish noise (for a switching supply), high power, PC controlled, among other reasons. Korad supplies (ex.https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00G0HAY3U/) are also generally well regarded low-cost supplies, but they're of linear design.
Good way to turn on LED chunks one by one - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: koko0
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 30, 2016, 01:48:58 pm
content: I had a small hackathon where i needed to light many LEDs (about 40-50) from a 5V 0.5A outlet, while keeping an ESP8266 working.AFAIK the best way to do it is to divide them into chunks, and light the chunks one by one fast enough so it will look like they are all on (but dimmed a bit).i wanted to do it with basic components (555, shift registers, MOSFETs and other things i had there), while using1 pinof the ESP8266 (other one was for a servo).i couldn't find a way at the time to do it, so i moved on to a chip with more output pins, but i feel bad for doing it.can you help me think of some creative ways i could have done it?I know it a bit broad question, but it will help me think of ways for doing it next time i will have similar problemsThanks!

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 30, 2016, 02:02:56 pm
content: Roman Black'sShift1system could do it with two 74HC595 SIPO shift registers to control the rows and columns of a multiplexed 8x8 LED matrix. You could afford up to 35mA per column which gives you an average of over 4mA with 1:8 multiplexing, plenty for high efficiency LEDs.Sequence: Shift out a byte for the LEDs to light in one row, followed immediately by a byte with only one bit active to select the correct row, send the Latch pulse to update all the outputs then idle or do other stuff for N milliseconds and repeat for the next row &etc.

author: stj
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 30, 2016, 02:09:15 pm
content: this is already done in some tv and laptop backlights.go look at the stuff sold by Linear Technologies.they have chips designed to drive several strings of led's complete with current regulation and even voltage booster circuits - if needed.

author: koko0
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 30, 2016, 02:38:08 pm
content: Ian.M -Thanks! i will look into it more deeply later.I hear the term high efficiency LEDs a lot, and as a ebay buyer everyone says that.are all the new LEDs high efficiency?stj -That's really cool to know!but i'm looking to learn about the more popular chips.
Good websites - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 06, 2013, 03:07:20 pm
content: you probably all already know of this website I just found it what an inspirational site RF sweep Generator I'm going for that onehttp://www.vk2zay.net/RF sweep Generatorhttp://www.vk2zay.net/article/93

author: johnboxall
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 07, 2013, 07:42:51 am
content: Indeed. Alan's a champ, pity we lost him to the USA.There's a huge list of sites here -http://www.eevblog.com/wiki/index.php?title=Main_Page

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 07, 2013, 09:24:41 am
content: Quote from: tronixstuff on July 07, 2013, 07:42:51 amThank you it's really nice there are channels out their that do good electronics for builders, plus the fun ,Building useful test equipment, is my favourite, I've seen enough multimeter tear downs to last me a life time
Good wire strippers - particuarly for thin wires - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: martfoxy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2025, 02:21:31 pm
content: I am having trouble finding some wire strippers that will strip thin wires - eg in a ribbon cable, they end up cutting the wire, or are not consistent. Has anyone got any recommendations?

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2025, 02:39:58 pm
content: What do you mean by thin? An home electrician might think 16 AWG is thin. Others would say AWG 30. Insulation makes a difference too. PVC is easy to strip by almost any method. Teflon is harder.For ribbon cable (like rainbow) with PVC, I just use heat and strip all the wires at the same time (attachment).EDIT: The spring clip conducts heat from a hot air gun.I heat, pull, and it strips nicely.

author: ahsrabrifat
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2025, 03:56:43 pm
content: You can use WEICON Precision Stripper S.

author: thephil
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2025, 04:00:59 pm
content: Very thin stranded wire can be a challenge. As automatic wire strippers go, I am very happy with my KNIPEX MultiStrip 10. But it isnot cheap. You can find cheap clones on Aliexpress. Those work fine for thicker wire but will butcher very fine wire – your mileage may vary.I believe there was a large thread on automatic wire strippers here not too long ago.

author: SteveThackery
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2025, 04:07:56 pm
content: Quote from: thephil on September 29, 2025, 04:00:59 pmI wonder if the OP forgot to do a search.

author: Alex Nikitin
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2025, 06:25:24 pm
content: Quote from: martfoxy on September 29, 2025, 02:21:31 pmI use these:https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B001HQMWNY?CheersAlex

author: richnormand
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 29, 2025, 06:48:44 pm
content: This is what I use.Adjustable and excellent quality.Made in Japan.Typically to prep bodge wires using wirewrap wires or prepping ribbon cables for plugs.In Canada I got them from Lee Valley Tools.www.topman.co.jp/

author: makebit
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 29, 2025, 10:09:05 pm
content: Just very sharp , small, well sprung sidecutters and go carefully, or a kynar stripperhttps://uk.farnell.com/jokari/40025/wire-stripper-30awg-20awg-0-25mm/dp/2613949
Good workinglight? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: FriedMule
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 06, 2018, 06:03:50 pm
content: As a noob I do not have the skills to make the right noise prevention or knowing if it is my light or my project that make the noise on the scope.Therefor am I thinking of getting some good light over my table, that are not interfering as much.Any ideas?Note, do not have any ground in my outlets.

author: Karlo_Moharic
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2018, 04:03:12 am
content: use regular tungsten lightbulb

author: FriedMule
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2018, 09:34:37 am
content: I have tried to investigate the normal tungsten bulbs but it looks like that they are no longer legal to sell or something like that.

author: radar_macgyver
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2018, 10:09:17 pm
content: Quote from: FriedMule on November 06, 2018, 06:03:50 pmUnscrew the lightbulb and see if the noise goes away? If it does, get an in-line EMI filter.

author: FriedMule
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2018, 10:24:36 pm
content: Right now I have the worst possible light so want to bye new, maybe LED, fluorescent light or something else but something that do not pollute everything with electronic noise.

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 08, 2018, 07:56:49 am
content: If you go LED, then make sure there are no switchmode type power supplies involved.

author: FriedMule
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2018, 07:08:54 pm
content: Ok thanks, what about cheap fluorescent light?
:: google drive sharing test :: - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: 3roomlab
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2014, 06:15:24 am
content: woot woot testing 1 2 3https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8yFRtbwGWr5cnRqaXlCTnh3WkE/edit?usp=sharingif you can download this? it is success i guess

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2014, 06:27:12 am
content: yeah, works fine.

author: Noise Floor
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2014, 01:37:01 pm
content: Works here too.

author: JoeO
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2014, 02:49:42 pm
content: Won't download for me.

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2014, 05:27:27 am
content: Quote from: 3roomlab on February 23, 2014, 06:15:24 amAccessed it with Chrome on Max OSX. It shows an html viewer page with the image in the middle and several file related options (download, view revisions, etc.).BTW, a long shot in the dark, did you watch this video recently?(if yes, and if you care about your anonymity, try something else ;-)).
Gordos Relay 741C4 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: BuilderDex
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 25, 2020, 12:41:13 am
content: Greetings! I have come across some components (20) that are marked on one side with GORDOS 741C4 . It is about an inch long and rectangular shape. It has 5 leads that are in-line. three together and two spaced farther apart. I think it is either a solid state relay or just a regular relay but I cannot find any information out there. Anyone have a clue?Thanks

author: JustMeHere
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 25, 2020, 02:31:45 am
content: Photos would help. Sounds a bit like an SSR.

author: vu2nan
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 25, 2020, 02:54:53 am
content: It's a reed relay.Regards,Nandu.
Gossen Metrahit Energy - how are they implementing µA overload protection? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: Felicitus
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 22, 2014, 08:01:32 pm
content: Hi,I've watched the Teardown of the Gossen Metrahit Energy several times in order to figure out how they do µA protection. Yes, I know how to do µA overload protection in theory. Assumptions:Gossen claims that they have a burden voltage of 60mV on the µA range, which results in a shunt resistor of about 100 OhmsI assume that they're using the mosfets to switch off in an overload situation (e.g. sudden rise of current and the meter not switching)I see only one fuse (11A), I assume that the other two 0.5A fuses on-board are not for the amps measurementsIn an overload condition, and assuming a 100 Ohms 3W shunt for the µA range, the maximum current would be 170mA.Here are my questions;How are they actually switching the µA/mA/A ranges? Obviously not the range switch, as you can switch to any mode without turning the knob.How are they implementing overload protection? Do they have a very fast reacting circuit which switches to a higher A range (thus lower current shunt) with a mosfet? I also don't see any diode clamping circuit as shown by Dave in the Fluke 27 input protection explanation.Thanks to anybody who can shed a bit of light on this issue.cheersFelicitus
Got a bk precision 1472b but I am missing some info to use it - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: asgard20032
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 01, 2016, 04:06:11 pm
content: I searched on the web, but I can't find any information on the required probe impedance. I can't find the COMPLETE user manual, the only thing i find again and again is a 10 page from the user manual, including front page, only describing the internal with schematic. What is the maximum voltage I can input?

author: edavid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 01, 2016, 04:56:19 pm
content: It has normal 1Mohm inputs. For a 15MHz scope, the cheapest Chinese probes will be fine.Did you see this manual for the 1472C? Should be similar in specs:http://bama.edebris.com/manuals/b&k/1477/
got a timer circuit...now I want it to power a LED strip - HELP - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: Trefle10
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 26, 2015, 03:00:17 am
content: Hi, I recently purchase a circuitcreation.com K109 kits to use in my project but I need some help to get it completed.This project will act as a night lamp for my kids, when they press the button it goes ON for let say 15 minutes (configurable) and then turn the lights off.I was able to assemble and test it, it all works fine.the red led goes on when I press the switch and stops after the programmed time.schematics and technical info here:http://www.circuitcreations.com/uploads/K109_Timer_Manual.docnow the documentation indicates that I have 3 output on this... I was sure I had one where I can connect my LED strip to get it powered ON when the circuit was active...OUTPUT OUTPUT DESCRIPTIONLED The LED output illuminates the red ACTIVE LED while the delay timer is activated. This signal can also be used as a timer ON output.LCH The LCH output is initially low when the circuit is powered up and will be set to a high of 2.5V when the timer delay interval has completed. The LCH output will remain high until it is reset by either removing power from J1 or changing any of the S1 switch settings as long as a new timer interval has not been started.OC_OUT The OC_OUT output is an open collector output that is open when the timer delay interval has not completed and is pulled low when the timer delay interval has completed. The OC_OUT output can be used to connect to higher power circuits such as a relay.The fun part where I need help. I want to light-up a strip of LED lights (12volts and max 3A)with this. Basically when the switch is ok the strip of LED should go ON.Now where should I connect these LED strips to?I see there is a note indicating an output on the open collector that could be used for relay...do I have to use that? if so how to use and what relay to get? I never used a relay so any help will be appreciated to select the right one.If there is another way to power these LEDs let me know.Thanks for your help.

author: Zero999
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2015, 08:52:48 pm
content: You need to connect the relay between OC_OUT and +V.The 2N3904 is not designed to switch any more than 200mA.http://www.ece.rice.edu/~jdw/data_sheets/2N3904.pdfAnother way to do this is to use a PNP transistor which is rated to 5A or more (it's wise to leave a fair headroom). Connect the emitter to +V, the collector to the load and the base to OC_OUT, via a 2W 120R resistor.
Got an offer for agilent 34411-A bench meter, is it worth it ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2012, 08:48:50 am
content: Recently thru a friend, got an offer for an agilent 34411A 6½ Digit bench meter, the seller claimed that its brand spanking new and only used for few times, and it was from an abandoned project in building a new electronic testing lab in a huge consumer product electronic factory last year.The offered item includes the original box, complete with genuine agilent probes as stated in check list, documentation + software CD, original power cable and the calibration certificate from agilent factory, but the seller didn't mention the printed date of the certificate. Offered price is close to about 980 in US$ equivalent, while for new price this bugger is around US$ 2100.I'm aware this is definitely gray (or even black) market type of deal, assuming its working properly, is this price worth it ?Btw the seller allows only physical inspection and brief test at his place, say I'm going to pull the trigger, any hints or helps how to check it if its working properly only in a very short time frame, say like in 30 minutes or 1 hour ?Also is there any standard warranty seal from Agilent factory for this kind of equipment that I should aware of ?TIA

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2012, 03:24:24 pm
content: Go to agilent website and download the manual. These machines have a built in selftest.Typically a button you hold in while powering up. Disconnect all cables, hold button and power up. It will run for about a minutes. If the display says PASS it is good.Its that simple.Now, 900$ is a lot of money.... You can get two 34401a for that price.. Which are also 6 1/2 digit. The only advantage of the 411 is that it has lan and usb where the 401 is gpib rs232 , and the 411 measures faster. And the 411 has capacitance, advanced triggering and some extended ranges like current down to microamps and ohms to gigaohms.Its a matter of what you need.

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2012, 08:46:15 am
content: Thanks for the tip, yeah, thats quite sum of money there.Is there any standard warranty seal at the unit from Agilent ?
Got my LCD Working - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: tony3d
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 21, 2014, 12:15:20 am
content: Hi All, I've moved on from the servo experiments, and got my LCD Display working today. Soldered my headers to the board, wired it up, and it worked! I added a switch so I can turn the backlight on, and off. I have also attached a short video of PWM on pin 9, but I checked all the pins, and everything works great!Video of PWMhttp://s46.photobucket.com/user/2001as/media/IMG_3396.mp4.html