hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Looking for a vice to hold PCBs and components for soldering. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mint.
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2012, 09:08:21 am
content: Hey fellas,I'm in need of a quality vice for holding PCBs and components so I can solder easier. Preferably the price 50$ or under, but I can go up to 100$ if I really like it. What do people use on this forum, any recommendations?

author: IanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2012, 09:21:49 am
content: PanaVise is the "go to" recommendation:http://www.amazon.com/PanaVise-Model-201-Junior-Miniature/dp/B000B61D22

author: dfnr2
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2012, 05:15:00 pm
content: I have a panavise, with special circuit-board holder attachement:(link), and also a general holder attachment, shown here with the base:(link). However, lately, I've been too lazy to use either. The main issue is when you are doing through-hole, and you have to remove the board to add new parts, then put it back. That gets to be a pain with the panavise and similar holders where you have to adjust a part to lock the board in. The dedicated panavise PCB holder above does have a "quick-release" to remove and insert the board once you are adjusted, but I find it to be a bit squirrely.I prefer to just lay the board on the bench top, especially if everything is surface mount, and the opposite side doesn't have a bunch of lumpy protruding parts. However, I've seen people use jigs to hold boards level, which may be helpful. I've seen jigs that are pretty expensive, but for me the ideal is the little PCB-holder built into the top of the Auoye 853 IR board warmer. However, looking through ads for an example, it seems they have changed it in the current revision of the warmer. They have something similar on the 883 model:(example here). Ideally, I'd like to have something likethis one, but made out of aluminium or something sturdy that won't warp.By the way, if you are doing through-hole, a very valuable accessory ispainters' tape. It's great for holding parts in place when you turn the board over. Some people bend the leads, but that can result in variable component heights if you don't bend aggressively, and makes the parts harder to remove. Also, it reduces the number of parts you can install at once, because the leads interfere.Dave

author: 0xdeadbeef
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2012, 06:29:49 pm
content: The Weller Solder Fix 120 looks nice (especially for through-hole), but it's pretty expensive.http://priceprobe.co.uk/weller-component-mounting-frame-euro-solder-fix-120.p4958246For SMD stuff with hot air, this one looks quite handy and it's pretty cheap, too:http://www.pcb-soldering.co.uk/aoyue-326-versatile-pcb-working-platform-.html
Soldering station on sureelectronics.net - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: rounsmith
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2012, 10:27:36 pm
content: http://www.sureelectronics.net/goods.php?id=1593Can this be legit? 40 us dollars is too low for this (i can't calculate shipping). But i was wondering if anyone ordered from this place before and such

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2012, 10:29:26 pm
content: I've ordered from them before, they're legit.

author: DaJones
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2012, 12:17:22 am
content: I ordered one of these units from a different source ( paid $70 ) and am very happy with it.The only real complaint I have is that the soldering iron doesn't really fit very well into the holder. Meaning thatthe part on the iron that's supposed to fit into the holder doesn't really fit - it's a little too large, and therefor kindof flops around a little and isn't held firmly.I don't really care for the default tip that comes with these units ( conical ), but you can get replacement tipsfrom Hakko-us for about 6 bucks each.I think that 40 bucks is a great deal!

author: metalphreak
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2012, 12:33:16 am
content: Express Shipping will probably add another $20-30 to the price.Looks pretty nice for a "Crystal Clock Oscillator"

author: harnon
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2012, 12:46:42 am
content: I got a pickit2 clone off these guys on eBay. It took forever to ship and the case doesn't quite fit together properly but it works fine and was less than £10!

author: rounsmith
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2012, 05:34:48 am
content: Thank you guys , i might considering getting one of those.40 dollars for a combo station(soldering+hot air) is a bargain( i live in greece so you can imagine , no money no fun)

author: cybergibbons
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2012, 05:39:57 am
content: The site is fine - I have bought components off them, with the usual slow shipping from HK.The station looks similar to the Yihua 898BD+ I have just bought with some small differences. The Yihua has a genuine Hakko heating element which I think would be hard to fit into a $40 price point, but who knows?

author: cybergibbons
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2012, 07:48:40 am
content: Sorry, typo corrected.Are you sure that is the reason for the failure? They look adequately sized to me.

author: Mint.
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2012, 10:14:48 am
content: Has anybody got this station? I might want to buy this since it is so cheap. What is it like?
Eico 1171 vintage resistance decade box restoration - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Wartex
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 09, 2012, 12:52:59 am
content: So I saw this old broken decade box on eBay and decided it must be mine. This box was made circa 1955. Old school design and hammered metal paint job are pure porn, look at it:It only uses 4 resistors per decade and 11-positions 2-contact switch, resistors are 1*10^n, 2*10^n, 3*10^n and 6*10^n value, and are cleverly switched into series to get all 10 values.Some resistors are badly burned but are still proper values! Switches are shot tho, some positions go to ~500k if you nudge the switch, already ordered new switches.rest of pics:http://imgur.com/a/sZ2W4#0

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 09, 2012, 01:10:25 am
content: Nice one. Somebody obviously used it as a room heater

author: FenderBender
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 09, 2012, 04:16:17 am
content: Good luck with that! i guess you're really only keeping the box now, but hey, that's 5 less holes you don't have to drill and of course the box.

author: Wartex
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2012, 02:33:22 am
content: Ok, found the proper switches and cleaned the box face plate. Now off to buy resistors. Couple of questions:1. The knobs are original Daka-ware from 1955. They are made of bakelite, I read that it's toxic as a particulate, causing lung cancer. Should I replace them with modern ABS equivalent?2. Should I buy 1% resistors or should I buy hundreds 5% resistors and find one that is closest to marked value amongst 5%? I looked on digikey and 1-3 watt 1-0.1% resistors could run up to $16 a piece. I need a total of 20 resistors.

author: sonicj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2012, 10:25:34 am
content: Quote from: Wartex on February 21, 2012, 02:33:22 amdo you plan on grinding them up and snorting them?bakelite knobs have a way better look & feel than ABS imo...-sj

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2012, 11:22:52 am
content: I agree with sonicj, bakelite is only toxic if you actually ingest it or burn it and inhale the vapors. Probably not even as toxic as lead solder which most people here have probably handled quite a bit.
Desoldering tool with silicon nitride heater - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: nukie
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 18, 2012, 03:35:10 am
content: Sorry no review here, I thought it's interesting so I shared.Hozan HS-401 Hot TweezersBuy one herehttp://www.ikaswebshop.com/hohsdesthpin.htmlHS-401???

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2012, 09:31:15 am
content: Those are very handy installing chip capacitors or SMD resistors. Put solder on pads and just lift the component in place. But you are right, limited thermal capacity, so not good for much else.
Atten 8502D Pro hot air +solder station? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jasonh
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2012, 05:45:04 am
content: A search for this on these forums doesnt find a thing but when searching for the 858D a number of them come up in associated searches.I was wondering if they are any good? I assume that the hot air station is at least as good as the 858D but I am not sure about the solder station. It's just something I would use a second iron.An example of one is here.http://www.ebay.com/itm/SMD-Rework-Station-ATTEN-AT8502D-220V-/130603078726?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e688cd446#ht_1549wt_1175Looks like it would run you about $220USD but I guess at that price you could get the 858D+ and a second soldering station that you knew was of quality..

author: PeterG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2012, 07:14:03 am
content: The only issue with this model is the diaphragm air pump. This type of pump tends to be noisy.You should be able to do better on price for this type of setup.Regards

author: jasonh
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2012, 08:34:12 am
content: Thanks Peter. I am more and more thinking to just get the 858d+ and do a search of another rental storage place that could have a few weller soldering stations. They must be somewhere!
Melles-Griot HeNe laser teardown - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: wkb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 18, 2012, 08:21:40 pm
content: I just stumbled on the pictures of my teardown of a Melles-Griot helium-neon gas laser. I got it from a friend of mine, it wasfound defective in some chemical analysis lab instrument. The friendly service guy who left it behind also replaced the high-voltage power supply, that one proved working without trouble. Along with the defective laser tube I got a working one, with working power supply which was preventively swapped.Anyway, it proved an entertaining project to take it apart. The glass tube is housed in an aluminium tube, and is centered/mounted using some tar-like glue. Thanks to Sam's Laser FAQ (http://www.repairfaq.org/sam/lasersam.htm) I got the right tip-off: slightly cook it in an oven in (I think it was) 80C or so. The actual tube is doomed, due to sputtering effects (thanks Sam, for the explanation :-)

author: wkb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 18, 2012, 08:26:05 pm
content: Some short movies of the laser tube under powerhttp://wkb.home.xs4all.nl/Laser-hacking/no-start-HeNe-laser.avihttp://wkb.home.xs4all.nl/Laser-hacking/non-starting-HeNe-laser.aviWith a slightly-higher value ballast resistor the tube looks better (but it does not laser, it is too far gone for that)http://wkb.home.xs4all.nl/Laser-hacking/higher-ballast-R.avi

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 18, 2012, 10:28:42 pm
content: Thanks for the pics. Nice to see a teardown of one.
Yet another 50$ multimeter, Ohmeron mt488e - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: rollatorwieltje
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 10, 2012, 11:12:25 pm
content: I had to swap the batteries on my multimeter, and as a regular viewer of Daves blog I decided to take a quick look inside and post the results.These multimeters are offered over here at several dump stores for roughly 50$. I mainly bought it (a few years ago) for it's large display.Basic specs:40mV/400mV/4V/40V/400V/1000V DC40mV/400mV/4V/40V/400V/750V AC400µA/4mA/40mA/400mA/20A DC400µA/4mA/40mA/400mA/20A AC400?/4k?/40k?/400k?/4M?/40M?40nF/400nF/4µF/40µF/200µF100Hz - 30MHz-40°C - 1000°CDiode testercontinuity beeper2 off positionsThe manual can be found here:Manual4 self tapping screws hold it together. There's a seperate battery area, but the cover is also held on by a self tapping screw.A spring connects the rear shield to the main board.Board layout. Notice that the terminals are on a seperate board and are full tubes. Interestingly for every resistor and capacitor the value is printed on the silkscreen. The chip is aFS9922-DMM3.A quick look through the datasheet reveals that this chip actually supports RS232 data output. I don't see RS232 on the display when I try to enable it by holding the REL button for 2 seconds, but Auto Power Off does turn off. The LCD doesn't seem to have the RS232 "segment" (when you turn the meter on all the segments go black for a second). There is a segment for hfe though, but this model has no transistor tester.The through-hole resistors on the left are placed quite poorly. the blue and brownish one on the left are almost touching.There appears to be no real fuse inside. The 20A lead has no fuse as stated on the front panel.A little surprise here, the signals are actually carried by the standoffs / screws, including the 20A range (the shunt is on the main board). I have never seen anything like that. Not sure if it's brilliant or insanely stupid.Not really much to say about it. It works, no surprise there. Component layout looks quite ok to me, although the through hole component placing could use some attention. Thumbs down for not gluing the battery leads in place, I just don't like wires being soldered directly on the board without mechanically fixing them in place. Thumbs up for the large clear display. The stand is just one of those 90 deg flimsy plastic tab type, it sits just a little too flat for my taste. However, it doesn't rock sideways and the mode selection can be easily operated.Using standoffs as conductors...I couldn't really be bothered to thoroughly check the accuracy of the different modes. I tried some genuine onehunglow 56k 5% resistors and they all measured well within spec. Voltage looks ok as well, similar to my Graupner Ultramat 12 battery charger and a (cheap) Turnigy high current measurement tool within 0.01V. That's good enough for me, I mainly use it for R/C related stuff.I guess it's now time to get the soldering iron and start hacking a serial port on it

author: Mint.
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2012, 07:59:56 pm
content: Nice one!
Cool chips - thermoelectric coolers - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: damo
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2012, 02:08:44 am
content: http://www.coolchips.gi/Gibraltar based company developing ultra efficient thermoelectric devices with projected Carnot efficiency of 55% (compared to 5-8% for traditional Peltier devices). Uses a concept known as a vacuum diode which thermally insulates the hot and cold sides while still allowing current to flow.Not available to the unwashed masses yet. Sounds to good to be true and we all know what that usually means.Any thoughts on these devices? Do you think the claims are true or false?

author: DavidDLC
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2012, 02:15:47 am
content: Quote from: damo on February 10, 2012, 02:08:44 am55% is not too good to be true !Of course much better compared to 5-8 %I will say too good to be true when they are >99%

author: Zad
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2012, 03:43:52 am
content: If they really are 55% efficient then they would be better off devising a system of heat-pumping the waste heat from refrigerators, freezers, aircon etc into the domestic hot water system. It could save a fortune.

author: damo
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2012, 05:23:51 am
content: Quote from: Zad on February 10, 2012, 03:43:52 amOr they could use the waste heat from fridges, freezers and aircons to generate electricity. I would imagine the efficiency heat to electricity mode of this device would be less than it's electricity to cooling as per normal Peltier devices. Heck, mount them on a roof with an appropriate cold side heat sink to convert the suns heat directly into electricity. Potential competitor for PV?

author: wkb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2012, 07:43:11 am
content: Quote from: damo on February 10, 2012, 05:23:51 amGet some plutonium, and wrap them together in an insulation shell. That is how NASA powers deep space probes.
V&A520 Another low cost LCR meter? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: muvideo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 10:47:13 am
content: Hello,does anyone have info about this?http://www.eleshop.nl/va-va520-automatische-lcr-meter-p-481.htmlhttp://www.mastech.com.cn/html/en/products-va520.htmFor curiosity I'd like to find the specs of these meters,but no luck, maybe are rebranded products?V&A (http://www.mastech.com.cn) is related tohttp://www.mastech-hy.com?They have also some lcr meters that look similar to tonghui:http://www.mastech.com.cn/html/en/products-va511.htmhttp://www.tonghui.com.cn/en/goods/index/73.htmlSo maybe they rebrand products from others and this VA520 issimilar to some other product with full specs (too optimistic?)Fabio.edit:more info here, i'm starting to read it, hope to understand trough online translator:http://md4u.ru/forum/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=5799

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 01:48:47 pm
content: Quote from: muvideo on February 09, 2012, 10:47:13 amAFAIK they are not related others than V&A being cheeky and grabbing the mastech.com.cn domain, leaving Mastech with the p-mastech.com and mastech-hy.com domains (mastech.cn is in the hands of some dubious SEO, while mastech.com seems to belong to an unrelated US recruiting company).There is nothing special about the V&A meters. Some other no-name companies rebrand them. You can e.g. find their rebranded multimeters in other colors on ebay.I think someone once showed the inside of a V&A multimeter here, and it looked rather cheap and not well made.QuoteThat could be. V&A bench multimeters (VA80, VA81) look very much like Tonghui meters. But since Tonghui offers more versions of that bench multimeter it is likely that Tonghui makes them, and V&A just rebrands them.The question with that LCR meter is who makes it, Tonghui or V&A, and who is just rebranding it, V&A or Tonghui? This is difficult to say. Both companies apparently do produce their own meters. V&A might enhance their product portfolio with stuff from other manufacturers, like the VA80. So a random guess would be that Tonghui also makes these LCR meters.

author: muvideo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 04:50:24 pm
content: BoredAtWork, you are right, it's difficult to understand who produces what.If only they had decent specs (I don't ask muck, at least rangesand resolution), I could have risked the 130euro.Reading the russian topic I understand that now there is this cyrustek asicthat makes the production of these 100kHz rcl meters cheap,so we could hope that the prices go down, and specs go up in the future.If this V&A 520 is based on ES51920 the ranges and resolution should belisted here:http://www.cyrustek.com.tw/spec/ES51920.pdfFabio.
Greenlee DM-510A Multimeter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Boris
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 02, 2012, 10:22:11 pm
content: I bought this multimeter recently for about $133 (USD) , and still havent decided if i overpaid or not, my newbie opinion that its a good multimeter, but i could be very wrong, maybe for that price i could get better?Am not very qualified to "review" it myself or see whats good and whats bad about itso if anybody can tell me if i bought the right thing or not!here are some of the technical details:High visibility 6000 count LCD displayAuto power off, display backlight, analog bar graphPC interface capability using optional USB RS-232 cable with data recording PC softwareCapacitance and temperature measurement capabilityAutoCHECK feature provides automatic selection of AC volts, DC volts, or resistance with low impedance for ghost-voltage eliminationhere is the amazon link:http://www.amazon.com/Greenlee-DM-510A-Professional-Digital-Multimeter/dp/B003TO5YU0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1328220675&sr=8-1

author: ilikepez
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2012, 06:08:08 am
content: It seems pretty good. Its a rebranded Brymen BM-510. You might be able to do better for the money but not still have RS-232 link.
Stupid case/antenna design - HTC Desire HD (also called Ace) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ndictu
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2012, 06:05:10 pm
content: Few weeks ago I've noticed that the GPS performance of my phone was getting worse. It started as a gradual decline in signal strength, lock times and so on. Probably was going worse from the day one but I didn't notice that until recently. Then it started losing signal completely at random intervals, and just two weeks ago it died completely. No signal at all, standing outside with a clear sky.It was actually shortly after a software update so I though they messed something up, but after some searching for a patch I found that it was actually a HW issue. A pretty common one.The back cover is made of two parts (+2 sliding covers for battery and for sdcard/sim card). See that thing on the left? It's a separate piece of plastic that is held in place with a few plastic clips around the edges. It contains the lens for the flash and the GPS antenna with contact pads (that touch a pair of those springy contacts on the PCB below). Why? No idea.Now, every time you put any torque on the phone (eg. walking, sitting down, ... while it's in your pocket), the antenna cover moves a bit and the contacts slide against each other. After about a year (in my case), this is what you end up with:Luckily, you can buy replacement covers on ebay, got mine in the mail today. Took a few minutes to replace, works like when it was newAny ideas why they would make that cover a separate piece? Takes extra assembly step and isn't very durable. The space taken up by the springy contacts is about the same as the size of the antenna.

author: nukie
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2012, 04:30:51 am
content: I have the Ace. The antenna is printed on the plastic piece, look at the darken traces. Same as the bottom and side covers. I hate the battery cover. The unibody is alloy, placing the antenna close to the metal part is not suitable? I am not rf engineer this is my guess.I placed a copper foil in between the connections.

author: ndictu
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2012, 10:03:37 am
content: Quote from: nukie on February 07, 2012, 04:30:51 amWell they could put it in the exact same spot by having a stand-off on the board and just cover it with a single piece of plastic afterwards. Battery cover is terrible, nearly broke it trying to get it off.I thought about putting a thin solder layer over the pads, but the whole thing was very loose. The plastic clips get weak after some time and it was moving around in there. The new one holds firmly in place (for now...).
REVIEW - Microchip Support Service - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kaz911
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2012, 04:47:50 am
content: Hi Guys,this will be a multi part review :-)Anyway - I am a bit of an eBay sucker... and I am working on some PIC16 and PIC18 designs for various products related to "clean water" in Marina's. Anyhow I bought a "used" C18 compiler on eBay for an okay price - and I lately bought 6 x ICD3's and 1 x ICD2 plus a PIC32 Startkit in a "for parts auction".Anyway - the ICD2 and 2 x ICD3's are working. The rest of the items are not. That made the eBay deal "reasonable"But I thought - what the heck... So I wrote Microchip support and told them honestly about my situation - and that I have 4 broken ICD3's - and I bought them 2nd hand - and if I could pay to have them fixed.And Microchip came back and said "As pr. company policy we replace defective development tools - you just have to pay shipping of the defective units to Dublin - then we will ship you new ones"I was surprised - and amazed. This is great customer service. Now I asked if they will exchange the PIC32 Starter kit. And lets see what they say.Anyhow - that kind of customer service deserves a praise - and made me feel a lot better about choosing Microchip PIC for my Marina Cleaner.But I'll follow up on my "review" once I have the new items in hand. I don't really need 6 ICD3's but since I am working on a UAE Hackerspace project - some of them will be donated if things work out well.Have a great day!/Kaz

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2012, 09:12:17 am
content: For comparison, try the same with AtmelUnless they have a very good day, or recognize you as a million dollar customer ...

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2012, 11:03:20 am
content: Donating ? ...

author: wkb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2012, 02:19:20 pm
content: Good to hear that there are still companies out there that really care about their customers. We (me included) tend to focus on whining about not-so-good companies, it is only just that kudo's are handed out to the professional companies out there!

author: McMonster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2012, 09:09:37 pm
content: This story really made me think about trying some PICs, especially PIC32s really look interesting. I'm tired of Atmel's limited choice of 8-bit AVRs and not giving a rats ass about hobbyists.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2012, 09:29:39 pm
content: Quote from: McMonster on March 07, 2012, 09:09:37 pmYeah ... my thoughts .But PIC's entire range is just ... i don't like them .Sure they aren't ARMs but they are a huge company and they can stay afloat .

author: kaz911
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2012, 06:46:42 am
content: And I am still impressed. This morning FedEx knocked on my door with 4 new ICD3's and a new PIC32 starter kit. Now I just need to ship the defective items back (or it will impact future SAR requests)That is so great support - thanks Microchip!
Oscilloscope Parameters - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: olsenn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2012, 06:59:42 pm
content: My question for you today is how important are things like screen update rate and memory depth? I currently own a Rigol DS1102E (100MHz) and am thinking of buying a Rigol DS4000 or DS6000 series scope (hopfully 500MHz) but I notice that even the 100MHz version of the DS4000-series scope is 4 times the price of the DS1102E... can anyone tell me if (in your opinion) the extra features like memory depth and screen update rate are worth the extra money?

author: wkb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2012, 08:00:58 pm
content: Basically the only one who can answer these questions is you. What do you want to measure determines what instrument you need.If you are doing (say) audio stuff the Rigol you have is already overkill. If you want to design GHz circuits obviously the Rigol isnot suitable.

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2012, 08:01:45 pm
content: Dave discussed the value of memory depth and update rate in the video review of the Agilent Infinivision scopes, back when they were first introduced.

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2012, 08:04:17 pm
content: Quote from: olsenn on February 03, 2012, 06:59:42 pmit will give you extravanganza... ego
U173xC firmware update - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Rufus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 12:56:59 pm
content: Just a heads up there is a version 00.21 firmware update available. Looks like it is 6 months old but I'm sure it hasn't been posted on the Agilent web site for that long.Only documented change says "Improve 10kHZ measurement stability".Fimware updating was pretty painless but does require a USB interface (specific to the LCR meters and 1401 calibrators not same as the multimeters).Good to know it is updatable so they might improve other things like the stupid ESR mode and flakey relative mode.

author: DonRon
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2012, 10:10:59 pm
content: Hi Rufus,thank's for the info.Bought my 1733C in August 2011 and it has firmware version 00.20.So made the update .. can be done very easy.RegardsRonald
fluke 8024 B/Extech 530 multimeter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cowboy303
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 03:40:50 pm
content: Has any body heard of the fluke 8024 B or the Extech 530 and if so whats your take on them.I'm not wanting to compare them I just want to know your opinion on them.thank you very much for you time.

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 05:21:28 pm
content: The 8024B was among the first true DMM, manual ranging and by today's standards, has no CAT protection. Its from the early 1980s. eBay they sell in the $50-100 range. The 77, or 80 series are a better buy for a used old Fluke, as it sells for the same amount. Any design before 2000 doesn't have CAT protection built in.The Extech 530 is ~ 5 years old, and a reputation for toughness, and a few Amazon users complain the accuracy is lower than its spec sheets, something I've never seen in any Fluke DMM. About $200, new.

author: cowboy303
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 10:39:03 pm
content: what does it mean that it Doesn't have CAT protection built in?Does that mean it's not as safe?I f it's rated 750volts then whats the MAX voltage I should read with this meter (Friend gave this meter to me)Thanks again

author: IanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 11:00:30 pm
content: Quote from: cowboy303 on January 30, 2012, 10:39:03 pmThe IEC category ratings are about safely measuring energetic circuits and being protected from hazards. The higher categories like CAT II, CAT III and CAT IV are about using the meter to measure mains voltages on circuits where a high energy voltage spike or surge could cause a hazard (such as making the meter explode).If a meter does not have a CAT rating (or is marked CAT I), then it cannot safely be used to measure mains circuits. Its use should be confined to low energy circuits such as on the secondary side of an isolation transformer, or with low energy voltage step-up or boost circuits where there is only low power available.Here's a link with background information:http://www.plantservices.com/articles/2004/232.html
Commercial Electric (Home Depot) MAS830B Multimeter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: FenderBender
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 03:38:10 am
content: Hey guys,I needed 2 more multimeters quickly, and I really don't trust Radio Shack meters at all, besides being overpriced, so I decided to go out on a limb and check out Home Depot's offerings. I got this for $19.What do I think of it?Pros-1.) Pretty cheap2.) Doesn't feel too bad in the hand3.) Seems fairly accurate actually, up against my other meters4.) Internal build isn't terrible considering the price. Could be better, could be worse5.) Test probes are short, but pretty reasonableCons-1.) No decisive click when you change ranges- You don't know what range you are on2.) Manual ranging- but to be expected3.) Supplied battery friggin sucks4.) Kickstand also friggin sucks5.) Sometimes just doesn't work (could be the range switch)6.) No backlight

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 05:18:04 am
content: Quote from: FenderBender on January 30, 2012, 03:38:10 amAgain, thanks for sharing the photos and review.If it just doesn't sometimes work, I would definitely return it.

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 11:59:55 am
content: Rebranded Mastech MAS830B? Even the model number is the same, although this one has both inputs fused and is missing the hFE function.Probably based on the same ICL7106 as all the other cheap ones like the DT830.

author: ModemHead
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 05:27:24 pm
content: I would be curious to know what it reads if you probe a 9V battery with the 200 VACrange. Switch the probes around both ways.
A look inside the Agilent MSO6034A Scope - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 11:59:49 am
content: Thanks Mike, really enjoying the teardown, also those knobs look shiny !

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 12:36:18 pm
content: Thanks Mike. Luckily the grime on knobs and body is commonly due to our body oils by touching it; luckily most of such grime we create can easily be washout out with just regular soap and water. I do the same, soak in soap, to save labor; another item that helps is warm water. If you have one handy, a burst with ultrasonic cleaner will loosen anything further.Always good to see a well made device. The scope is made in Malaysia too isn't it? It lists for about $12K US, has the price changed markedly in all that time?

author: Rufus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 12:54:42 pm
content: Thanks for the show. Makes a change seeing you tear down something you have to put back together afterwards

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 08:46:34 pm
content: Quote from: saturation on January 27, 2012, 12:36:18 pmThink it was about GB£6500 when I bought it about 8 yrs ago, but a year or two later they made 8M RAM and 3yr warranty standard and increased the price.

author: Kibi
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 09:46:34 pm
content: Thanks for this Mike. Very informative, as is to be expected of your video's.

author: Drirr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2012, 05:27:16 pm
content: Nice video, thank you !

author: kaz911
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2012, 05:57:49 pm
content: Yes thanks for the video that was great as usual.I usually use crushed dishwasher tabs for hard cleaning / soaking. I have not tried washing powder. :-) but will try that next time.Regarding normal soap: Dishwasher tabs and washing powder contains enzymes that break down organic matter. That is why they usually work better than normal soap.
multimeters - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: siliconmix
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2012, 10:15:15 pm
content: i dunno about anyone else but i prefer a meter with an off /on push button instead of turning the rotary switch to the off posision.i recently been thinking of he wear and tear on the wiper connectors everytime the meter is turned off with the rotary switch.i've had a few meters that have worn out this way.what u think ?

author: amspire
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2012, 11:10:55 pm
content: I prefer a dedicated ON/Off switch myself, but I guess that multimeter designers may prefer using the rotary switches for the reason that in the OFF position, the input terminals can be switched off.If I am using 5 multimeters on a bench, I like having them all set to the function and range (if it is not auto ranging) that I want, and having the option of just turning off the meters when I take a break.Richard

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2012, 11:19:59 pm
content: I do like the idea of a separate On/Off switch, but so far I haven't had a dead rotary selector switch (I'm not using mine 8+ hrs a day though). In my case, I seem to kill mine by dropping them one time too many (I'm a walking disaster in terms of clumsiness).

author: siliconmix
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 21, 2012, 07:59:45 pm
content: maybe i had a few dud ones.or a bit rough with them

author: PStevenson
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 22, 2012, 10:25:43 pm
content: I hadn't thought of it myself but yes a dedicated on/off clunker would be nice however I don't think I can live without the auto shut-off feature these days, I am terrible for forgetting I've left battery things turned on.
MSA personal gas alarm teardown - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2012, 11:29:43 am
content: Learn about the wonders of Intrinsically Safe design!

author: mobbarley
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2012, 12:16:51 pm
content: Nice ending

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2012, 03:11:27 pm
content: I got it all wrong! I thought it was for testing personal gas!VK6ZGO

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 10, 2012, 03:32:11 pm
content: I'd like to see a piss poor chinese one

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2012, 03:50:50 pm
content: I think the use a different approach. E.g. for explosive atmospheres the use something like the image bellow. If there is a leak you will notice it.Alexander.Quote from: HAL-42b on January 10, 2012, 03:32:11 pm

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 10, 2012, 04:10:10 pm
content: Quote from: firewalker on January 10, 2012, 03:50:50 pmSo the bang at the end is the chinese alarm going off? Makes sense now:D

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2012, 08:59:17 pm
content: Wonderful video Mike. It really helps any understand why Ex devices are so much more expensive, its what's the under hood. Contrast the 87VEx versus the 87V in terms of price, for example. The ending is hilarious and unexpected!

author: Chet T16
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2012, 09:19:46 pm
content: Mike, when i'm looking for work experience can i comeworkplay with you?

author: siliconmix
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2012, 10:07:04 pm
content: nice vid mike.learnt a lot about safety .a bit bewildered tho.i didn't see one canary in there .

author: wkb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2012, 10:25:28 pm
content: Quote from: siliconmix on January 19, 2012, 10:07:04 pmCan't : RSPCA...

author: Frenchie
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2012, 04:20:53 pm
content: Nice to see the insides of the sensor cells - I'm a Chemical Engineer so I use these things fairly frequently when I have to go climbing into vessels and other fun places. It's always nice to know what you're trusting your life to.As you speculated, the sensors do drift quite a bit and they have a regular calibration requirement (done with a gas standard and can be done in-house). The MSA units often have a model specific field 'calibration' station which allows you to have longer durations between full blown cals. The idea is you test them against a small amount of cal gas each use and as long as the units are within spec, it'll pass them and 'bump' their cal.The settings are typically impossible modify on the units themselves to prevent bored individuals (ie the confined space sentry) tinkering with them in the field. I'm not sure whether or not the alarm ranges are changeable as they're usually standardised ranges and I've never had need to tinker with them.
Defibrillator teardown - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Greg J
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2012, 06:30:12 pm
content: Good stuff Mike. Been fan of yours for a while now

author: FenderBender
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2012, 09:34:43 pm
content: One of the most interesting videos I've ever seen Mike!

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2012, 09:46:26 pm
content: Quote from: FenderBender on January 01, 2012, 09:34:43 pmYou should get out more.. Then again so should I

author: FenderBender
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2012, 09:53:50 pm
content: Haha. No really. I always wanted to know how they worked.

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2012, 10:00:37 pm
content: BTW if you want that flipdot indicatoir :http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Flipdot-go-nogo-indicator-flip-dot-mechanical-/200695374776?pt=UK_BOI_Electrical_Components_Supplies_ET&hash=item2eba6063b8

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2012, 10:10:11 pm
content: That ceramic cap really is massive

author: hacklordsniper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 02, 2012, 04:57:14 pm
content: Quote from: FenderBender on January 01, 2012, 09:34:43 pmI can confirm it, great. I like the indicator, i hope i will get it

author: Agent24
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2012, 09:44:00 am
content: Great video, loved the ending

author: sonicj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2012, 11:05:19 pm
content: Quote from: mikeselectricstuff on January 01, 2012, 10:00:37 pmdayum! that thing is cool! any idea who the manufacturer is/was?-sj

author: hacklordsniper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2012, 10:50:35 am
content: I played with it yesterday in evening and for fun hooked it up to a FG. It works up to 20 Hz and after it gets in middle position.Quite nice indicator to save battery
Little teardown of 5€ Conrad multimeter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ElectroElvis
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2012, 09:25:54 pm
content: Well here is just few photos of Cheapest Digital Multimeter from Conrad that doenst really "shine"It is jumping up and down on readings...It is powered from 1 12V battery. Well for 5€ few years ago it is only good to see its insidesBattery almost costs more then whole multimeter:D

author: ipman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2012, 01:42:44 pm
content: It's not bad at all for 5 euros, really. I would expect much worse.I wonder how much the production cost was.
Tonghui Bench LCR Meters, any experience? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bsgd
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2012, 12:23:58 am
content: Hello all,I was wondering if any of you had any experience with Tonghui LCR meters, specially the bench meters, like the TH2811D.I tried to google some reviews but couldnt find any.Thanks for any input!
Metcal APR-5000-DZ - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DaveW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2012, 03:59:50 pm
content: Has anyone had any experiences with a Metcal APR-5000-DZ? I've had one in for demo and it looks pretty good, but I'm trying to find if there are any alternatives with similar functionality or if people have had any problems with the Metcal one. Not particularly fond of that fact it runs on Windows XP still....http://www.okinternational.com/product_advanced/apr5000dzThanks in advance!
Outdoor LED screen teardown - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2012, 11:17:24 am
content: Looking inside the screen that used to be in Piccadilly Circus, plus intimate details of how to drive LED arrays with video.

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2012, 12:37:28 pm
content: Once again really enlightening. Thanks you.Alexander.

author: mobbarley
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2012, 12:47:13 pm
content: you get the best toys!

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 17, 2012, 03:41:53 pm
content: It would make a nice coffee table
"Authentic" Canon power supply from eBay - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 04, 2012, 11:58:22 pm
content: They didn't even fill it with scrap metal to make up the weight like on this one...http://electricstuff.co.uk/acadapter.htmlBTW nothing wrong with that output diode - a single diode rectifier on the output is totally normal on a flyback converter.Liked those PCB filter inductors!

author: Fraser
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2012, 12:15:08 am
content: I liked this chaps comedic description of the assembly with reference to playing darts and a rectifier from a WWII Panzer TankNice video and a warning that is all too familiar to many of us....if its too good to be true, then it probably is ! Its becoming a nightmare to buy OEM mains PSU's from anyone other than a bona fide dealer and they charge crazy pricesI have recently deliberately purchased used OEM PSU's in UK in preference to cheaper new units purporting to be OEM but from HK or China. Used is better than fake !A crap PSU can work out very costly when it fries the kit it is powering....I wouldn't have continued use of that fake OEM PSU.

author: nukie
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2012, 04:33:40 am
content: But I didn't see him solder with his legs at the end of the video! His accent gave away his English 'level' but I understood everything he said. It's very entertaining and informative video.
FLUKE PM3082 - does anybody know anything? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: nicopag
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 07, 2012, 08:20:49 pm
content: Hello everyone!as I moved from my parents' house to my own house I began building my tiny electronics lab...Just got a Fluke 87V and now I'm searching for an analog oscilloscope.On the ebay, in my country (Italy) prices are completely crazy.... it's easy to pay 230€ for a 20MHz dual trace Hameg, 20 years old.. I don't think it worth, given the availablity of a Rigol DS1102E for 350€!I found from a dismantled lab sell a Fluke PM3082..... 4 channel, readout, ecc....I never heard anything about Fluke analog scopes.... plus the name looks like a Philips one..I'm asking if there's anybody who knows the item and can help methank you very much!Nicolo' "Nicko", Venice Italy

author: wkb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2012, 08:38:06 pm
content: Specs are herehttp://www.teknetelectronics.com/DataSheet/FLUKE/FLUKE_308090537.pdfNote the address listed in Eindhoven. You guessed it right: that is were Philips' heartland is, where the famous Natlab ("Physics lab") is etc.OK, they moved their HQ to Amsterdam, but as usual that is a clueless MBA decision.

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 07, 2012, 08:49:06 pm
content: Fluke's bench equipment from that time are almost all Philips designs. Fluke bought Philips's T&M department to get their hands on the ScopeMeter technology. They continued to produce most Philips equipment for a few years but discontinued most of them eventually.

author: wkb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2012, 09:01:00 pm
content: Quote from: alm on January 07, 2012, 08:49:06 pmFinally found the link:http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0EKF/is_n1965_v39/ai_13909191/

author: nicopag
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 07, 2012, 09:04:08 pm
content: Quote from: alm on January 07, 2012, 08:49:06 pmThank you very much for the information... So my next question is... how good are those scopes? :-)I mean... can they stand a Hameg, Tektronix and so on?The unit I saw looks like new, the crt is perfectly focused and very bright, ecc..Should I put it on my wishlist or should I look for something else?My use would be very "hobbysh".. Audio, amplifiers, crossovers, some simple digital circuit...100MHz should be enough ;-)

author: kripton2035
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2012, 10:02:36 pm
content: I have a pm3394 for quite long now and I'm really happy with it...they are good scopeI'm not a pro of oscolliscopes, I didnt use intensely other brands so I cannot compare with other