hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
What is this weird component in my new hot air handle? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Joebeazelman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2023, 11:43:55 pm
content: While probing the wires on a new handle for my Quick 856D hot air station, I got confused wondering why the reed switch is in series with the heater instead of the thermocouple like my original handle did. When I pulled back the terminal tabs for further inspection, it turns out the reed switch was indeed wired in series with the thermocouple but hidden inside a thermal sleeve.Now I am left wondering what is the weird component I mistook for a reed switch. It's hard to read the inscription, but it says YCW on one side and 250V on the other. Any clues?

author: nigelwright7557
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 26, 2023, 12:15:38 am
content: Probably a temperature sensor, maybe a thermistor.

author: themadhippy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 26, 2023, 12:46:37 am
content: what is this looks suspiciously like a thermal fuse

author: Joebeazelman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 26, 2023, 01:45:01 am
content: Bingo! Thanks. Just did a search for "metal thermal fuse" and found several that looked like it. This is the first time I've seen one inside a hot air wand. I wonder if it has any advantages.

author: helius
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 26, 2023, 05:22:43 am
content: The main advantage is preventing fires. If through some fault, the heater is energized without airflow, the temperature of the handpiece will rise until the plastic melts and ignites. There are videos of this happening to (badly designed) hot air stations that are switched off; but it is a potential fault with any unit left switched on. The temperature control loop with the thermocouple does not provide fire safety: something more reliable is required.These thermal fuses also find application in plug-in power meters such as the Kil-A-Watt where they are used for similar reasons.
Sale on Larson cutters pliers  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Wallace Gasiewicz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2023, 11:37:08 pm
content: Other stuff also including solder wickhttps://www.edsyn.com/category/CLEARCP.html

author: Microdoser
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2023, 05:11:24 pm
content: Shame delivery to the UK is $122, or I would have bought 10 pairs of pliers for $7. If they sent it via Evri, it would be close to $18...

author: Veteran68
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2023, 05:41:48 pm
content: Delivery within the US is pretty bad also. I went through their clearance list and added 7 small flush cutters, 3 soldering braids, and 2 small scissors to my cart for a total of $32.Cheapest shipping is $45.17.That's probably not more than 2-3 pounds in weight and would fit into a flat rate USPS Priority Mail box for $11 retail (less with the commercial rates I'm sure they have). Being a domestic company, that reeks of price gouging on shipping to make up for their "clearance" prices.Thanks, but no thanks.

author: Wallace Gasiewicz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 24, 2023, 02:31:09 pm
content: The shipping cast is terrible. I did email them to ask why. I use their products and the Loner is a great soldering station.They have another sale.Wally
Recommendations on Metcal DS1 accessories? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: CoffinDodger
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2023, 06:50:43 pm
content: Picked up an STDS-DS1. For a little bit I've been seeing ebay listings parting out the hand piece separate from the air line, power socket and cartridge. Finally someone posted the whole assembly for something reasonable (and of course after I picked it up a couple more cropped up, one even came with a stand... Missed out on that one.)The real hero of the story is Metabo's tiny EC28M going for $130 for black Friday. Originally wanted a California air 1P1060SP, but the metabo came out a bit cheaper, and for once the lower HP was appealing. My little lab/office/fab/server room is on a single 20amp, so half the current draw and smaller foot print were appealing. Thing is whisper quiet. The office is maybe 15 ft from the bedroom and directly over our livingroom, and the wife approves.This thing has made part removal/recovery a freaking breeze and, dare I say it, enjoyable.Now that I'm past the gloating, what are some must have cartridges? It came with an STDC-104 and so far it's done everything but the largest leads. Even then there's enough suction I can just about suck it all up from the edges like a vacuum cleaner. All I can think of is a long nose 104 and one/two larger cartridges for heatsink anchors.Any alternatives for Metcal/thermaltronics chamber liners? Kinda wondering if I can get away with duck cloth/canvas since the chamber is insulated from the element.I did have a small issue where I was repeatedly getting the amber lock out on my supply. Then it started getting more frequent to the point it wouldn't supply power any more. Switched channels to my other handpiece worked fine. Put the STTC cartridge into the DS1 and worked fine. Put the STDC back into the DS1... And worked just fine. No more light. *Shrug*
TS101 soldering iron schematic? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: gwideman
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 30, 2023, 11:42:16 am
content: I see that there's a schematic for the TS100 findable by Google, but I couldn't get google to find one for the TS101.Anyone know if there is one publicly available, and if so where?Thanks!

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 30, 2023, 10:22:31 pm
content: You can see the comment here:https://github.com/Ralim/IronOS/issues/1420"Trying to source one. Miniware so far have not shared any details (firmware, schematics)."You'll have to reverse engineer it if you want one.

author: gwideman
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 30, 2023, 11:14:05 pm
content: Quote from: thm_w on November 30, 2023, 10:22:31 pmThanks! That thread is fascinating!
Hilda CJ369 Laser distance meter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: PinheadBE
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 14, 2023, 02:27:21 pm
content: Hi,Has anyone got the opportunity to test this device (The CJ369 version) ? What about the precision ?Thankshttps://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005005782599907.html
Dyson battery capacity test - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Manuel Wald
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 16, 2023, 11:21:08 am
content: Hello,I would like to start a new topic here because I couldn't find anything anywhere:I've been repairing Dyson batteries for some time now, now the one with V6 and V7 batteries works very well thanks to the help of @Tinfieber and @NeilP and other people.Now I have some batteries that have little power or when I have balanced the cells and installed the new firmware I would like to know what the condition of the battery is.During the test I would like to find out what the current performance is, how I can find out if there are defective cells or I would like to avoid passing on a repaired battery where after a short time the cell voltage becomes unbalanced again.Simply install the battery in the vacuum cleaner until it is empty and charge it again and repeat that often is actually too easy for me, right?Please give your opinion, experiences, thanks.BR, Manuel​

author: Ugur
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 16, 2023, 11:59:19 am
content: Hello,I have never had a chance to review it before.Is 18650 battery used in the Dyson battery box?There are battery testers that give you information about the battery, but these devices are expensive.The easiest and cheapest method is to measure the battery discharge time and power by making a load circuit. Or with an electronic load device.
TEK465 leaf contact - missing - bad .2 2.0 and 20v range...one channel - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: termen11243
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 13, 2023, 03:16:37 am
content: I opened up a tek465 to fix the offset knob which came loose. Also expected to find a burned resistor that would cause this symptomConnect ch1 to calibrator. Run v/div through all settings 50mv to 50 volts.The 0.2 2 and 20 volt scales all read high like they were on a lower 50mv scale.Inspection revealed the problem. The input attenuation switch runs a cylinder with 'bumps' to deflect and open/close the leaf switches,a small flat spring with insulator and two pair of gold plated spring fingers touch the board to close a connection.I rotated the input range between the bad and good setting so I saw which leaf is going on and off.Ah hah the leaf is missing on the end of the spring on the bottom of the board. It looks like a pain to get to it as in dissasemble alll the parts off the front of the input board for ch1. I lifted the emi cover and all is fine there, but there are contacts on both top and bottom of this board.So if I can find a leaf spring to put in there, it would fix the attenuation problem. Are there any 465 part out units a spring contact can be lifted from?Or a source of these parts? Maybe I can fabricate one from another source. Otherwise I marked what ranges do not work on the scope.Ch2 operates normally. Maybe this is why the surplus got rid of this unit. The manual does not seem to ducument these input boards at all.The resistors seem OK per markings but there is no schematic of this input attenuator . Lots of pots trimmers caps and switched in x10 x100 stages.

author: tggzzz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 13, 2023, 08:35:52 am
content: It will be easier to find a parts mule and simply replace the attenuator assembly.Save the attenuator "blocks", since they often need replacing.When cleaning the attenuator fingers, use a strip of paper soaked in IPA, switch to a range where the fingers are lifted, switch to a range where the fingers are down, and gently pull the paper in the obvious direction.
Silicone cable for solder handles? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Jono434
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2023, 03:53:48 pm
content: I'm looking for 2M of 4 or 5 core silicon soldering wire for wiring/handle modifications and I found theKSGERcable.Very expensive, but then I foundthis cableand they look the same. But the price is very different. The only difference I can see is that one says 5.68mm overall diameter and one says 5mm but can that even be trusted? They both say "0.08MM * 35 shares * 5-pin". Even in the KSGER one, lower down the page.. it says 5.0mm.Has anyone found any good cables to use for AliExpress that fit the specifications of the original cables that come with the T12 or T245 soldering handles? The feedback on the reviews doesn't reveal much information, and often people leave positive reviews before they even try it.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2023, 12:28:53 am
content: I'm sure its the same stuff. Its cheap enough to buy some to try out. There are other generic vendors if you just look around for multicore silicone wire (https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256801085130585.html).For T12 the thickness will be a non-issue. For T245 I don't know what the original spec is.Do some calculations to see how much loss will be in the cable depending on the AWG.For the price its good and totally usable, though not on the same level as the premium wire that Hakko/metcal/etc use which is super soft and flexible. I'm not sure if any alix suppliers offer that.

author: Jono434
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 26, 2023, 12:38:37 pm
content: Thanks for your input, yeah it's cheap enough to try and see how it is. The other advantage is being able to build the right length of cable to suit the bench it's being used on, because others are usually a fixed size. For C245 I can use 3 core that should be fine to handle the current, it's mainly about T12 and C210.
ARGUS AAD - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MitkoDyakov
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 11, 2023, 07:12:51 pm
content: Hey everyone, I made a video about a AAD from ARGUS. Enjoyhttps://youtu.be/5KszLDabH2o?si=x5Fzu67QTYcKEB3N
T962A reflow oven smell even after modding - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: newtekuser
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2023, 04:32:21 am
content: As the title says, I’ve replaced all the white masking tape with Kapton tape as per the many posts on the internet. That should have fixed the awful smell but it didn’t.I actually smell the bad odor coming from the white steel insulating wool rather than the masking tape which is now gone. That’s unless there’s a lot more of the white masking tape under… don’t know.And yes, I did find and replace the long strip covered in masking tape underneath the front.Anyone run into the same after performing this mod?

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2023, 11:21:15 am
content: I can't smell anything obnoxious from mine. When first used, there was a slight smell from manufacturing oils, just like a new toaster or electric space heater might smell. I only use mine for a few, small boards occasionally. So, my experience may not apply to anything like continuous productionIs the smell while doing soldering or during a blank run? Does it smell like overheated electronics? What is your maximum temperature setting?

author: DavidAlfa
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2023, 11:55:37 am
content: Have you tried cranking it to the highest temperature for 20 minutes to burn everything off?

author: newtekuser
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2023, 10:17:20 pm
content: I could only leave it at 300C for about 10 mins, white smoke was starting to come out of the back and wasn't comfortable leaving it on for much longer. The large fan wasn't spinning very fast either, the lamp light was just pulsating.However, the smell was different this time, more like the burnt electronic/heater smell when I did the dry run without anything in the oven, than when I was soldering stuff.Of course, I turned it back on immediately to let the large fan kick in and cool it off.

author: djacobow
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2023, 11:40:19 pm
content: I have this oven and I use it primarily with GC10 solder paste which works great.The smell ofthatwill knock you on your ass and leave you questioning your life choices. How do you even notice the oven at all?

author: newtekuser
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2023, 05:38:02 pm
content: It's not a very big deal as I'm planning to run it in the garage with the doors open. I am actually surprised how well the oven performed even stock, without the cold junction mod and was able to get decent results even when using lead-free (low melt) solder.I did get some occasional solder joints but that was when I was applying solder manually and not using stencils, otherwise everything else was even and not burnt.However, my experience is pretty limited to only a handful of runs and my boards are never larger than 100mmx100mm.
T962A reflow oven cold junction mod - temperature sensor part - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: newtekuser
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2023, 02:53:19 am
content: Got my T962A oven flashed with the latest FW from unified engineering and soldered a DS18B20 thermal sensor to the pads as per the github page:https://github.com/UnifiedEngineering/T-962-improvements/wikiI'm using a 4K7 THT resistor as I didn't have it in SMT size.The oven is reading cold junction temp at 21C which makes me think the sensor is not working.The part I used was DS18B20+PAR purchased directly from Digikey:https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/analog-devices-inc-maxim-integrated/DS18B20-PAR/1197285Can someone please point me to the exact part used successfully to do this mod?

author: newtekuser
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2023, 04:22:55 am
content: Hmm, maybe the cold junction mod is working.According to this post I found, it should have not gotten a reading without the sensor:https://domoticx.com/t-962-reflow-oven-31-cold-junction-compensation/LE: yup, it is working. I moved the oven to the garage and the cold junction temp dropped to 19C
Rigol DP832 and DP832A startup spike still an issue with newer versions? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Nrkb
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2023, 01:40:27 am
content: HelloDoes the Rigol DP832 and DP832A startup spike still an issue with newer versions?I'm in the market for a bench psu, i dont have any yet, i'd like one that has no issues but i dont want to pay more than 1000$. At least 2 channels.Thanks

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2023, 10:39:00 pm
content: I don't think it was ever changed, the only change was to the regulator inside. But you shouldn't have any problems unless you are working on incredibly sensitive parts.https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/is-rigol-dp832-output-voltage-spikes-when-unit-is-turned-on-an-real-problem/There are some newer models that would be worth looking at instead (DP900 and DP2000):https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/rigol-dp2000/
Hakko Vs JBC Tool Size Comparison Video. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: KG7AMV
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2023, 05:37:10 pm
content: Someone Needed to Make this Video So I Did.. Hope it is Informative.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2023, 09:20:15 pm
content: Good video. Though you've compared stickout on the two handpieces which doesn't really matter, what matters is fingertip grip position to iron tip.See the red line here:edit: heres a comparison of MX-H1-AV, FM-2027 (T12), and FX1001. I don't know how the new FX-9701 compares but it looks similar to T12 or worse.

author: KG7AMV
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 04, 2023, 05:41:40 pm
content: thm_w,thanks for watching.Stick out matters when you have to venture in to a space where extra length is required between transformer, relays, etc.

author: Arts
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 06, 2023, 10:59:55 pm
content: Good video!I'm using most of the stuff you discussed; Hakko FM-2027 & FM-2030, JBC C245, and a huge old DR-5600 desoldering tool. That DS360 looks awfully tiny by comparison.

author: KG7AMV
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2023, 08:13:04 pm
content: Arts,The DS360 is very comfortable and so far quite effective equal to of not ever so slightly better then the FM-2024.Still wish I had the JBC Pneumatic Vacuum Source.
Digital microscope camera - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: funky2x
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 06, 2023, 08:59:01 pm
content: Hi,Is it possible to ascertain the actual sensor type used in a digital microscope camera? The manufacturer claims it to be a Sony IMX291, but I have doubts about the accuracy of this claim.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 06, 2023, 11:21:49 pm
content: If you google 291 you can find images of the sensor, it seems to match:https://ipcameraboard.com/product/ip16as291d-1080p-50fps-1-2.8-2mp-sony-imx291-hi3516a-ip-starlight-security-cctv-hd-cameraYou can measure the sensor size and verify it is 1/2.8"Here the guy was able to hook up a debug serial connection:https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=1jV7Qzr3OQ0It looks like you already have the thing apart, so I would look around for that debug output. It wouldn't be 100% guarantee but probably good enough.

author: magic
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2023, 08:56:08 am
content: As an aside, this doesn't look like a great choice of microscope sensor. Very small area, wide aspect ratio, kinda meh.Do you actually want to use the NIR capability?
Heat sink recommendation for Dale RH50 power resistor - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: matthuszagh
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2023, 05:47:41 pm
content: I'm looking for a heat sink for Dale RH-50 power resistors, since the power ratings must be derated quite a bit without the heat sink. Does anyone have anything they use and can recommend? Thanks!
Any opinion Mechanic C211?  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ndarjo21
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2023, 02:10:16 pm
content: Hello all, i plan to buy aixun t3b or mechanic c211. it seems the aixun t3b didnt have really critical problem. but i also really look into mechanic c211 cause it cheaper in my place. i have watch Steve video,The problem is, he havent reply to my comment, is this soldering station have grounded tip or not. i have bad experience with mechanic t12 pro which is not grounded. Also, Steve didnt test this station in coin test like another jbc clone which make me curious, is this station really can deliver the power to the board properly or not. is this station have overshooting temperature or not, or it have big ΔT around the set temperature like show in Tony video about aixun T3A in stability part.i hope if you have this station, u wanna answer my question.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2023, 10:59:35 pm
content: Its going to do poorly on the coin test because its a much smaller tip size. If you care about power you get the T245.That said, T210 is fine for 99% of soldering tasks.Kind of on you if you want the smaller handle and tip sizes or not.

author: ndarjo21
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2023, 12:12:35 am
content: But based on our friend videoshttps://youtu.be/MJoKvbq-rU8?si=-NIR-uMmvx5CDx13The c210 able to melt solder to the coin. I am not planning to buy the c245 soldering station. Cause need nice pointy tips to soldering 0201 capacitor. My current t12 pro still capable for through hole soldering.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2023, 11:26:29 pm
content: Quote from: ndarjo21 on November 09, 2023, 12:12:35 amThat video is T245. If you want small tips for 0201 then yes the T210/T115 will be great.There was another station mentioned here that came with both T210 and T115:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/gvm-h3-jbc-clone-with-three-handles-a-transformer-driven-heater-for-136-bucks/You could try asking the seller in both cases, sometimes they are helpful.

author: ndarjo21
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2023, 01:38:54 am
content: Ah my bad. I thought it is a c210 tip. Maybe i will wait for more time, until someone review another soldering station or answering my question
KSGER T12 what is the R11 value ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: alpher
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2023, 08:21:40 pm
content: I've been trying to convert it to C245 tips but as expected the PSU cuts out on overcurent.So wanted to go back to original setup using T12 tips but, before i removed R11 i seem to remember measuring it to something like ~4.7K.Umfortunately not sure about it as I promptly lost it right away, now on every schematic I see it calls for 0or just plain short.Just wandering if anyone noticed KSGER variant with R11 being a few k?

author: floobydust
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2023, 08:51:01 pm
content: What version controller is this?R11 is 4k7 on OLED V3.0, V3.1 (black pcb), near the EEPROM.On V2.1, V2.12, V2.1S - R11 is a 0R jumper it has a trace to cut to use JBC. Near the GX connector. Like pic.You open-circuit R11 (cut trace) for JBC, short-circuit it for T12.The 245 thermocouple output is too much, it's almost two TC junctions worth, saturates the T12 clone controller's TC amp. You'd have to mod it.For that reason, I don't know of anyone that has actually successfully used a clone T12 controller with JBC cartridge

author: alpher
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2023, 01:13:51 pm
content: Much appreciated, mine it's an OLED version. Running back to T12 now.
Camcorder for desktop electronics demo's - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: keef46
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2023, 11:07:10 am
content: I need a camcorder for creating product demo's, training video's... I want to produce these in a similar format to EEV blog / Big Clive desktop video's.Can any recommend a camera for this?Looking at some of the cheaper ones on Amazon - but i worry the focus might be crap as the abjects will be fairly close to the camera.Needs a remote and or Wifi control via an App. I don't want to spend massive £'s if i can help it.Thanks!

author: coppice
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2023, 11:12:18 am
content: The last time I saw Big Clive talk about his setup he was just using an iPad. I expect he uses some pretty strong lighting, to get the best noise performance from that camera, but his final results are pretty good.

author: Wallace Gasiewicz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2023, 11:34:01 am
content: There are different "Document Projectors" that are used in school to project onto a monitor.They are quite expensive new but as school surplus quite affordable. I believe they can record in real time also.I use an ELMO Document Projector. Try ebay. Lots here in US.Mine is quite good at viewing PCBs etc and has lots of magnification.

author: wilfred
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2023, 12:36:23 pm
content: Big clive doesn't use a fancy setup but he does seem to work within the limitations of the camera he uses. I once knew he used a smartphone, someone else has said he used an Ipad. I would try using your smart phone and try to make a few videos. Camcorders are getting hard to come by at the cheaper end and will have limitations in macro close focusing. You'd get some kind of zoom capability but from what little you've said that may not be useful.A bluetooth selfie stick may be useful as a stand and may provide the remote control to start and stop recording. Kmart in Australia sell them for A$10-$15. So they are cheap.If you're using the remote because you're in front of the camera then smartphone audio might be sub-optimal. With decent lighting any camera can produce good video. By decent, I mean lighting that is bright and you have control of the shadows.Try what you have and let that experience guide you.
Latest Battery Soldering Irons TS series October 2023 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ianscott
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2023, 11:59:11 pm
content: What is the latest/ best model of the TS & PINECIL series battery soldering irons? TS80 TS100 PINECIL Etc

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2023, 09:39:39 pm
content: Does it have to be in that form factor?KSger C210 is a hell of an iron for the price:https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005005519807256.htmlTip is smaller though, not a T245. I don't know if a good T245 USBC/battery iron exists.Of the ones you listed, pinecil v2 is the top.Sequre:TS101:
Using the Pro'sKit SS-331H desoldering station on 110v 60hz - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: salbando
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2020, 08:48:47 pm
content: Banggood sells the SS-331H model of Pro'sKit desoldering station designed for 220V and 50Hz, but one user reported just using a US cord and running it at 110V and 60Hz. Is there anyway to know if this is a good idea or not?Thanks

author: dirtcooker
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2020, 04:21:26 pm
content: I purchased one from aliexpress. The power cord has a europlug on it, but there is NEMA adapter in the box, suggesting that it should work on 120vac. I tested the unit at both 120v and 230v, and it seems to function identically on either voltage. Temperture regulation is lousy either way, the tip heats to 240c when set to 300v, for example. The heater is underpowered, slow to heat up, with 10s or so to heat back up after desoldering a pin. I've written prokit about this, and am going to see if I can get a higher wattage heater for it.

author: salbando
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 03:41:40 am
content: Thanks. Good to know.

author: burro
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 13, 2023, 12:35:52 am
content: Hi DirtcookerI realize this is an old thread but I have been scouring the web in hopes I can find what is wrong with my Pro'skit ss-331H.I have had this thing for more than a year (warranty now expired) and all it has caused me is grief and aggravation, meanwhile I see videos on-line using it and setting it at the same temperature as mine and working just fine. I thought it was inexperience on my part or maybe these new metal alloy mixes that that are harder to melt. However, I recently discovered that my desoldering station is only heating up to 240c max, no matter what temperature you ser it at.I have seen videos on YouTube of people changing the 2 pin power switch with a 3 pin to add grounding, and they say this makes the machine work better and heat up faster, but I do not know if that will be the solution.Were you able yo fix yours? if so, how did you do it? Did Pro'skit help you at all?
Mantis Elite-Cam HD Baseplate - Cautionary Tale - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sdscotto
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2023, 07:24:10 pm
content: I was able to purchase a Mantis brand new a couple of years ago. It does not get used too often so it sits where I first mounted it a couple of years ago.This afternoon when I came to my bench it was laying on it's side, on top of my soldering stations. Broke the holder on both, but luckily it wasn't on the concrete floor.Part of the base plate was still clamped to the table, the rest was still attached to the Mantis arm.Nicely built arm made of aluminum, nicely built metal clamp, and thin plastic base. I have an e-mail in to Vision to see of there is a heavy duty base, because a replacement plastic part is $65. If they don't, I'm going to machine my own from aluminum.Only posting so others can check for cracking in that plastic base before potentially losing your investment. It took me three years of saving and I'm lucky it isn't in pieces.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2023, 09:25:05 pm
content: Cheap plastic indeed.You can also bolt it to the desk right, but you don't want to drill through your desk I guess?

author: jc101
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2023, 11:44:08 am
content: Nasty, good to hear it survived. My base plate is screwed to the bench, but I'll pop it off to check it anyway.My biggest pain is that the power switch sometimes pops out, so I have to pop it back in. Might put a switch on the cable instead at some point.

author: sdscotto
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2023, 09:30:04 pm
content: Update: The folks at Vision Engineering are great!They responded to small time me and we discussed my situation. They have not received a report of this happening before, and I believe them to be sincere. They are sending me a new base which I will use until I make my own.scotto
Looking for parts to build/repair Dupont connectors myself - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: VinzC
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2023, 04:50:15 pm
content: Hi all.My Dupont male connectors break one by one. They just bend then break and the wire becomes completely useless. Consequently I decided to repair them and shop for parts, especially the male pins... I thought it'd be relatively straightforward. Good joke! I can't figure out for the life of me the name/brand/model of the parts involved in building those connectors. I spent hours and hours searching DigiKey and Mouser, in vain. I could find French articles (example:https://www.gotronic.fr/cat-he14-2-54-mm-891.htm) for doing your wires but either the kits don't specify the constituting parts or I can't find the part names by DigiKey or Mouser. Absolutely none of my searches returned the parts I wanted.I'm about to go nuts. I give up.What shall I look for on Mouser or Digikey?Thanks a whole lot in advance,V.

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2023, 06:00:49 pm
content: This came up last week:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/where-to-find-male-dupont-crimp-pins/Another problem is the tooling required. The official crimp tool for any of the leading brand contacts will cost you an arm and a leg. The cheap knockoff tools for 'duPont' contacts generally don't do the job properly. Seehttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/crimpin-aint-easy-(or-best-hobbyist-crimping-toolsystem)/

author: VinzC
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2023, 08:26:03 pm
content: Thanks a lot.I indeed have a multi-use crimp tool. So far I'm more interested in repairing my wires for occasional use than a reliable crimping. None of my "crimps" are for heavy usage, especially given that the male pin breaks rather than the wires get off.Now I finally can order parts, so a million thanks for that
victron ip65-8-24 battery-charger - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: robint
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2023, 06:04:01 pm
content: Im re listing this topic after 18 months (as advised by Mod) to see if there is any interest in Lead acid battery chargers (LAB). Unfortunately I didnt set up my post properly and didnt get notified of any response (its still the same with other topics, dont know what Im doing wrong? - I have to manual visit topics to review replies - boards usually make this a default setting)https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/victron-ip65-8-24-battery-charger-for-lab-and-lion-packs/msg4314037/#msg4314037Anyway after 18 months I have some usage notes FWIWupdateI visited my profile and realised I had old mail from 2014 to a dead link, so all suitably put right now Im electrically activated
[WANTED] JBC T245-A genuine handle teardown - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: c0d3z3r0
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2023, 10:15:18 am
content: Does anyone own a genuine T245-A, willing to provide a teardown?(Maybe a defective one, since it's unclear if it can be opened as easy as the chinese clones)
Advice - Quicko T12 vs Aixun T3A, specifically tip selection - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: djc6
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 04, 2023, 03:42:57 am
content: I'm looking for an upgrade to my Weller WLC100 soldering iron, I mainly want better temperature control. My use case is mostly fixing old 8-bit retro computers, building retrocomputing related kits I buy on tindie/ebay, etc.. and stuff around the house like car repair and appliance repair.I'm considering two upgrades. One is this particular Quicko T12-952. Reasons I like it:https://www.aliexpress.us/item/2251832616981204.html?spm=a2g0o.cart.0.0.2ded38Says it comes with a STM32 - probably a clone, but there is a chance of 3rd party firmware support.Listing shows and states the case is already grounded, so no mods needed.It has a DC input jack so I could bypass the internal power supply entirely if it fails or is sketchy.The big one - Cheap T12 tips available!!The other option being the Aixun T3A with the new stand and T245 handle:https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256802796840905.html?gatewayAdapt=glo2usaIt gets great reviews and is still affordable, though triple the cost of the T12.My hesitation with the Aixun T3A is the lack of cheap JBC clone T245 tips for it, and the reviews say the T245 handle is the one to get. Real JBC tips are as much as the Quicko station! Am I missing where to search for cheap tips? All I find on Aliexpress are really fine tips or knife edge tips, when I prefer beveled tips or chisel shape tips. I'd probably get the Aixun T3A w/T245 handle if not for the tip situation just based on all the glowing youtube video reviews.A compromise option is getting the Aixun T3A and adding the T12 handle, though not sure how well that handle works with the new stand that is a clone of JBC stand.I've searched a lot on the forum, but most posters are excited that real JBC tips are compatible. I'm interested in the cheaper stuffThanks!

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2023, 10:14:38 pm
content: Given your use case you can get away with the T12 station. I'm not a fan of the 907 handle, and use one of the thinner handles but up to you.I'm sure you can read through the documentationhttps://github.com/deividAlfa/stm32_soldering_iron_controllerBut there are plenty of various T245 clone tips on aliexpress, the quality may vary so do some research first.https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805327737292.htmlhttps://www.aliexpress.us/item/2255800952303268.html
Digikey claims shorter lead time (LOL) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Bud
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2023, 08:24:31 pm
content: Oh, really?Seems someone took the already changing situation and turned it into a marketing stunt.@Digikey- tell you a little secret if you promise to not tell anyone: 13 weeks lead time Sucks!Quote

author: exe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 06, 2023, 09:27:11 pm
content: What was lead time before current shortage?

author: Daixiwen
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2023, 09:03:58 am
content: I've sampled a few components from our database from 2019 and we had about 10-12 weeks lead time for some components from Linear and 7-9 weeks for some components from Analog Devices.13 weeks is not good, but it's not that bad either.

author: exe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 07, 2023, 10:32:16 am
content: For me as a hobbyist the most annoying part is when I make an order, there is always something out of stock. I'll get those parts if I wait, but something else will be out of stock.

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2023, 02:34:36 pm
content: 13 weeks is about normal for the semiconductor industry. Remember, this is talking about the huge volumes that Digi-Key deals with not the 1 or 2 off they sell hobbyists. If Digi-Key gets large demand for a component then they have to push an order downstream to ADI, etc. and they're saying that they can get replenished within 13 weeks now so that's about right.

author: Stevedefacto
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 04, 2023, 08:18:13 am
content: Digi-Key will have you waiting weeks for parts to arrive only to find that they canceled your order because they have a past order on file at a different address, and they wanted you to tell them what your old address was.(I've lived at 3 different addresses since I placed my order over 5 years ago. I have no idea which one they were asking about...)

author: Microdoser
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2023, 12:41:42 pm
content: Quote from: Stevedefacto on October 04, 2023, 08:18:13 amYou've been waiting 5 years to have an order delivered? WTH did you order?
BTX-208 solder fume extractor not working - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2023, 10:13:54 am
content: Hi,BLDC driver FET has blown on BLDC driver.Do you know how to remove the driver PCB?https://uk.farnell.com/metcal/btx-208/filter-unit-tip-ext-8-stations/dp/1010138?CMP=KNC-GUK-GEN-KWL-MAN-L5Pages-New-Structure-CatchAll-Test991&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIsrvKuP7HgQMVMjsGAB2sdwNdEAAYASAAEgJgqfD_BwE

author: tggzzz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2023, 10:20:38 am
content: Quote from: Faringdon on September 26, 2023, 10:13:54 amBased on the (lack of) information in those photos, the surest way to remove the PCB would be to use a crowbar.More sensibly, your company should simply buy another.(I say "company" since your questions traditionally are "we" rather than "I", and I'm sure you wouldn't be so presumptious to use the "Royal we".)

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2023, 09:44:36 pm
content: Is that silicone covering the screws? Probably just some screws to take it off.Then measure the FETs to see if its just one or all shorted. The gate driver may have failed as well.
Weller soldering iron not hot enough - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2023, 03:45:54 pm
content: Hi,Struggling to solder with Weller WTCP51 soldering power supply, and TCP-S solder pencil, with adapter and tip (LT C 3.2mm) as attached.I went through all the proper ordering numbers....is it just always rubbish due to the adapter?

author: GLouie
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2023, 04:58:23 pm
content: Is this a used, vintage unit?I would first check the pencil cable. I had an older WTCP unit where the cable wire strands were broken and making intermittent contact, and the internal insulation was disintegrating (it was a very old unit). Sometimes the iron would seem to work fine, sometimes not. I used a very flexible microphone cable as a replacement, losing the silicone jacket feature.

author: Messtechniker
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2023, 05:44:31 pm
content: Quote from: GLouie on September 19, 2023, 04:58:23 pmHad the same problem with my WECP of 1975 or so. Initially also replaced the silicone cable with a microphone cable, because it is hard to find a 5 core silicone cable.Because of my self frequently bruising the cable, I eventually had to bite the bullet and got the proper silicone cable for some 25 EURs quite some time ago. From a source which no longer exists. Replacement cable is still going stong.

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 20, 2023, 08:30:42 pm
content: Those separate tips and adaptors are rubbish for thermal conductivity. Find some original all-in-one tips (PT series - RS and Farnell sell them).

author: Stray Electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2023, 02:21:04 am
content: I have the same WTCP-51 iron and used it for many years and it wored fine for small stuff. But I always use Weller tips with it. GLouise is also right, all of those old Weller irons are prone to failed wire conductors. But you can often hold them in a different position and they will work so it's pretty easy to tell when it's a broken lead.Is it heating at all or is it just not getting hot enough? When you say that it's not getting hot enough do you mean that it wouldn't heat your solder joint or will it not even melt solder from the roll? Those irons are very low powered and they will easily get hot enough to melt solder from a roll but then if you try to solder large joint of something that can dissipate a lot of heat the solder freezes because the joint or the device draws the heat from the soldering tip. If that's the case, then you need to use a higher wattage (not higher temperature!) iron.
"Always on top" for electronics part numbering - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Faringdon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2023, 11:33:18 am
content: Hi,Are you ever doing hundreds of part number searches and have to keep stopping to write down a part number...?.woudlnt it be easier to just have like a notepad that you could keep "always on top" on the screen, and you coudl just paste the part number on to it?Do you know how to do/get this?I just downloaded Turbotop and it didnt work...then downloaded "deskpins", and some other application downloaded instead.

author: themadhippy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2023, 12:52:37 pm
content: Quote1)format c drive2)install ubuntu,other flavours of linux are available3)start up the text editor/spreadsheet/whatever4)right click the top bar and select "always on top"

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2023, 01:23:06 pm
content: In Windows, it is called "Notepad." Ironic?

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2023, 01:36:21 pm
content: If you use a Windows PC, create a text file containing:Code:.LOGas its first line, and create a shortcut to open it in Notepad, placed wherever best suits your workflow. When you open it, Notepad adds a date/time stamp at the bottom of the file and positions the cursor below it ready for you to add new notes. When you close it you'll be asked if you wish to save or discard any changes, including the new timestamp.If you are doing a lot of copy/pasting from your web browser or other documentation,Microsoft Powertoysoffers an 'Always on Top' function, which if enabled is activated by keying Win+Ctrl+T (unless you change that) while the window you want to keep on top is in focus. You can also automate setting a window always on top with various macro or scripting utilities, e.g. AutoIt 3 or AutoHotkey, if you want the window to be always on top automatically when first opened.

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2023, 02:29:38 pm
content: There are many post-it type utils, but the one I use (in preference to the one I paid for) is Stickies:https://www.zhornsoftware.co.uk/stickies/index.html
Sanity check my soldering station plan? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: chconnor
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2023, 06:25:17 pm
content: Hi! DIY/home-hobbyist type here. I'm designing a 4-layer PCB (2Oz external, 1.5Oz internal, with some fat traces, bus wires, relays, etc.) and am upgrading from my cheap/old Weller to a modern and more powerful soldering station (per good advice from this forum). More generally, I do through-hole soldering, occasionally on burly tube audio gear, but mostly modern PCB stuff with little/no SMD work. I'm hoping to spend <$150 all in.So far I've settled on an Aixun T3A + an OEM tip or two, and I just had a few questions to run by the crowd wisdom:- I'm trying to decide which handle/tip system to get with it. My understanding is that C245 tips are in some senses better but more $, and the T12 are cheaper but that the clone T12s are better than the clone 245s? Is there any other distinction I should know about? Would choosing either system make much difference to the likes of me? (I'm not planning to buy clone tips in general but might do it now and then.)- is there a recommended source to make a trusted T3A purchase to avoid counterfeits? (I'm in the US)- anything else I should be looking at?I plan to give the unit an inspection once I have it -- I've seen advice that you need to do your own QC on these.Thanks for any perspectives.

author: chconnor
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2023, 09:30:24 pm
content: Ah, found thebig T3A thread, and in there the easy100fix store is mentioned as being apparently reliable.Any thoughts on the tip type would still be welcome; I think I've learned that the 245 tips are generally the better choice and can make use of the T3A's power more effectively.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2023, 10:58:13 pm
content: There is no point getting the T3A for T12 use. T245.

author: chconnor
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2023, 12:36:16 am
content: Thanks! I have settled on that plan; appreciate the feedback.
Is the Xgecu T48 EPROM/Flash/etc programmer worth buying? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MarkS
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 13, 2023, 01:47:06 pm
content: I'm finding this all over Amazon:T48. They seem to be rebranded quite a bit, but all are made by Xgecu. The price is right, but I'd like to know anyone's personal experiences with it.

author: MarkS
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 13, 2023, 01:50:41 pm
content: Never mind! I should have read further down the forum before posting.