hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Some questions about my recording audio - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: aifang
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 24, 2017, 08:57:37 am
content: I am trying to record audio using theMAX4466op-amp andVS1053shield that I bought fromKynix. I am able to record audio by connecting OUT --> MICP, GND --> MICN, GND -> GND.The recorded audio seems to have a very low gain i.e. I am barely able to hear what has been recorded in a room. I tried varying the gain using a potentiometer. The recordings are generally noisy so I’m not able to listen to what is actually being recorded.The recordings are marred by some noise (Link for the sample). While I am not trying to achieve high quality audio using an arduino + a breakout on a breadboard, I would like to record any conversation within a few feet (of course with the consent of people being recorded).My questions are:a) How do I avoid the noise that is affecting the quality of the recording?b) How do I improve the gain of the recording so that I am able to hear something when I play the recorded file?c) If it is not possible using theMAX4466breakout, is there an alternative to record the audio?

author: aifang
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 24, 2017, 09:02:55 am
content: Oh,sorry to post on the wrong forum...but I don't know how to delete itOf course , if anyone can help me ,I'll be very grateful!

author: The Soulman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2017, 01:44:03 am
content: If there is some audio but to low volume you'd probably need a pre amplifier, what microphone are you using?elektret type need a bias voltage to function properly.disclaimer: I didn't look into the hardware you're using.
Filter Wiz Pro anyone? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 06, 2017, 02:06:58 am
content: I was just looking at Filter Wiz Pro (http://www.schematica.com/active_filters/fwpro.html), and wondered if anyone has given this a serious try?

author: ajawamnet
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2017, 08:58:44 pm
content: Yea - I use it. Works well for what I've had to do. I verify it in a few different SPICE sims; usually agrees with it
Tina - TI and LM7805 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Fistr
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 10, 2017, 02:46:13 pm
content: Hi, I began to use the Tina-Ti for simulating circuits. It works well, but now I need to use the LM7805. I searched everywhere, but I can't find it anywhere. Could you help me please? Thank you!

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2017, 02:51:52 pm
content: What do you want to simulate on the most basic circuit ever? Connect input to input, output to output, put some bad elcos on bot sides, ground the gnd pin, and you have 5v. The frequency characteristics of power supplies, and effects of these is ignored in Tina anyway, because the Spice models are missing all the relevant information.
Autotrax Dex - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mswhin63
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2017, 12:16:00 am
content: Greeting all,In the past I have been quite tolerant with Autotrax Dex giving Iliya plenty of opportunity of the last 3 years. I know a lot on this board are are objectionable to Autotrax Dex but that was in my opinion based on instant dislike and obvious bias towards a particular methodology from other software without considerable time to evaluate. Maybe I am a lot more patient than most.After some time I decided that Autotrax Dex has some serious flaws a lot that was mentioned on the previous post, but the most concerning is Iliya attempt to cover up negativity and reluctance to provide reasonable support.The EDA software in itself has improved leap and bounds over the last years but one thing has not changed and that is his reluctance to resolves some bugs for some users.My final post on his forum was a bit of constructive criticism with a simple statement "Concentrate on fixing bugs than trying to develop new features"Iliya response "to deleted forum post"I can only warn users that purchasing this software after I have been using it for the last 3 years is that don't. It is not rubbish as some have suggested, the aggression of Iliya and his ongoing favouritism to some members are in mostly disgusting. Iliya in most wont care. He has a substantial number of users and mostly posts like mine are either deleted or forgotten about over time.I gave him a chance although I have been using KiCad and other EDA software at the same time, KiCad is improving although has some quirky processes.I am now evaluating Altium Designer and although I have an installation problem the Schematic Editor is by far rewarding to use. There a plenty of tips and trick for using it and it is feature rich. Although I am technician for over 30 years I have gone back to Uni to earn a degree. The student licence for Altium is cheaper than the full version of AutoTrax Dex so it was the logical next step for me.OK enough of a Rant, I may post a video about this rant on YouTube but a bit busy with my degree and health as well so it may or may not come.In summary use AutoTrax Dex with absolute caution. It has continuous bugs that need constant updating and only a single developer make the software mediocre at best. The latest bug is the search feature. In the end designing a schematic would take hours instead of minute purely from this bug, and there was no resolution at the end of my subscription (convenient eh!).MalcolmPS: My subscription lapse for only 1 day and I was immediately locked out of using Dex. that is another consideration especially if you may go away on holidays while subscription renewal process comes up. I wasn't informed of the subscription ending till about 2 day prior (That was also a feature I tested deliberately).

author: Excavatoree
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2017, 02:37:26 pm
content: My software never would update. He suggested a couple of trivial things, but then simply stopped responding to me. When it was time to renew, I didn't.
Altium -Copy schematic symbol but reset the designator  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: halexa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2017, 08:07:02 am
content: Hi,Is there a way to configure Altium to reset the schematic designator to "?" when you copy a symbol that has been anotated?

author: Mattylad
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2017, 08:59:27 am
content: You can do that manually.Then any more that are copied from that retain the ?

author: enz
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2017, 09:12:57 am
content: Goto: DXP -> Preferences -> Schematic -> Graphical EditingUnder Options you should find a check box named "Reset Parts Designators On Paste"Should normally be checked by default.Martin

author: halexa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2017, 11:25:34 am
content: @enz thank you. Now it works like i want it to.
CircuitMaker - Library workflow - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Harvs
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 04:44:36 am
content: I'm taking a look at CircuitMaker since I was thinking of recommending it to some folks at the local hackerspace to learn. Mostly because I'd be able to help them out knowing CircuitStudio very well.Overall I kind of like it, it retains a lot of power if a little obfuscated, but I'm struggling with the concept of component libraries for it. Please correct me if I'm wrong but it appears that you either use some component out of their community vault (of which every component symbol and footprint I looked at seemed like absolute garbage.) Or you create a component, then upload it for everyone to use before you can even put it on a PCB doc. No sandbox area for components, straight to release.I'm all for sharing and community, but my general rule is before I put stuff out for others to use (and spend money using in this case) I will build it to make sure I haven't screwed something up.I was thinking this was a pretty good tool for the hacker community, but what were they thinking? Do they seriously think component footprints are akin to some piece of Arduino code?

author: ludzinc
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 09:21:02 am
content: I use Circuit Maker for my tinkering at home.I'm about half as quick as compared to using Altiun Designer, and I do not trust any community parts.For regular generic parts I have a project that holds these (0605 and 0805 resistors and caps etc) and just fork this to start a new project and copy / paste parts.When I spin a new part (or update a community part) I may copy it to my starring project but I check everything.I agree this library management is a PITA but hey, it's free!
Altium 17 : Length tuning issue - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: SreejitS
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 08:02:33 am
content: Hello everyone!!I am facing a strange issue with the interactive length tuning in Altium17. It is showing different lengths in different dialog boxes for the same net.Well, the Net 21_1 has 62.20mm routed length in the PCB window, 98.909mm in heads up display, and 113.86mm in the length guage. Which one is the actual length??.Can someone suggest what could be the problem. Below is the screenshot....
Any one using Freeroute? I have a question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: julian1
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2017, 05:16:20 am
content: I know the general advice is to avoid the autorouter, but I have also read enough contrary opinion suggesting that Freeroute actually does a pretty reasonable job.Before I go about building the Java app and exporting and importing the specctra design files, I would be interested if anyone knows -If it is possible to constrain the routing of netlists to specific layers? I have a four layer board, with dual power supplies and would like the IC supplies/ and decoupling to be immediately routed to the reference planes with vias.Also, is it possible to specify that signal routing should only use the outside layers?

author: julian1
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2017, 11:22:07 am
content: To answer my own question - It looks like I can de-select routing for the middle reference layers, so it only routes top and bottom. Then re-import back into kicad and do the power and gnd vias manually.
Another new ( sort-of) PCB package - Ingenium PCB - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2017, 10:06:44 pm
content: This is something I'd seen mentioned on the PCAD mailing list a while ago but was skeptical as to whether it would ever appear - a "clone" of PCAD2006, which Altium abandonedhttp://www.ingeniumpcb.com/Products.aspxAs PCAD user I'm interested to see how this develops, but I'm not sure if there's a viable market for what is basically a ten year old ( though still perfectly useable) package outside of existing PCAD users.

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2017, 10:40:00 pm
content: The site says that beta version is available, but no download link or any sort of registration form can be found.

author: scopeman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2017, 01:54:03 am
content: I believe that the author is promoting beta by invitation. See/post on the Yahoo! P-CAD group and see what happens.SamW3OHMScopeman

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2017, 09:00:06 am
content: Pricing 2700 Euro ( but 30% discount 1st year = 1890) 500 Euro maintanance per year for updates
Schematic Symbol Design for Complex (High Pin Count) Connectors - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: arbartz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 30, 2017, 03:46:53 am
content: Hey all,I'm in the process of my first large design (engineering capstone project) and I'm at the point where I need to pick connectors. I've settled on the specific connectors that I'm going to use, but I'm a bit unsure of how to eloquently design the schematic symbol. I could always go ahead and just make a long block with each pin in a row, but that looks ugly and isn't too intuitive to someone else looking at the schematic. So I'm just looking for any suggestions from those more experienced.For reference, here's one of the connectors I'm using:http://www.molex.com/pdm_docs/sd/5007620481_sd.pdfThanks,Austin

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2017, 03:55:21 am
content: Typically connectors like this are made so that each row is its own "gate".

author: arbartz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 30, 2017, 04:02:40 am
content: Quote from: ataradov on January 30, 2017, 03:55:21 amSo does that mean I'd have a separate block for each row then? For example, a block containing Pins A,B,C,D,E,F,G,H,J,K,L,M for Row 1, then another for Rows 2,3,4?

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2017, 04:07:14 am
content: Correct. Don't make them all as one symbol, look at how ICs with multiple gates are done. You make a symbol for one row of pins (A-M), and then combine 4 such gates into a component. This way you can position each row anywhere you want on the schematic.

author: arbartz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 30, 2017, 04:08:56 am
content: Alrighty, makes sense to me. Thanks!

author: Mattylad
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2017, 10:45:51 am
content: And for a connector like a DIN41612 96 pin (rows A1-32, B1-32, C1-32) you can always (if you software allows) use an individual symbol per pin.This allows you to place the connector pins near the circuitry that they are joined to. This will remove the need to have a single sheet with all 96 pins on and lots of links off to other sheets, which can be hard to follow.
SnapEDA - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bghende
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2017, 10:40:02 pm
content: Hey Everyone -I just pulled the trigger on a schematic symbol and footprint from SnapEDA. It is a SOM board with three connectors (PicoZed Zynq SOM), so we will see how it goes. Any thoughts from the community about their experiences with SnapEDA? $30 seems like a pretty good deal. I'll let everybody know how it works out.Thanks!

author: KE5FX
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2017, 10:57:40 pm
content: It does look like a very nifty service. I'd like to hear some firsthand accounts from their users as well.
IBIS simulation - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: vpetrog
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2017, 10:02:33 pm
content: Hello guys, i' m working on a new project, (called ArduGen, if anyone is interested), and one IC i want to use comes with an IBIS model. I understand that IBIS is equivalent to SPICE, but faster, the solution almost always converges blah blah, blah.My question is, does anyone know a Software Simulator for IBIS models, preferably Open SourceThank you in advance,PS. First subject ever yeah

author: tggzzz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2017, 09:20:43 am
content: Have a look inside the IBIS model file, and see what components it contains.Normally IBIS models are used to assure signal integrity, not device function. I would expect the IBIS models to describe the I/O characteristics of the pins: inductance, capacitance, voltage-vs-current.
What design software was used to create this diagram? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: wblackledg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 06:12:59 pm
content: does anybody know what software was used to create these circuit diagrams?https://robrobinette.com/images/Guitar/5E3P_Build/SS_Spring_Reverb.pnghttp://ua726.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/tombolaSpringReverb.pngsecond question, is this the best free/low cost design software for a software dummy (me) to do remedial hardware design / layouts?thanks in advance..

author: TheAmmoniacal
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 06:20:22 pm
content: I believe those diagrams are drawn, but you can make similar pictures with Fritzinghttp://fritzing.org/home/For more professional circuits you can use DipTrace, Eagle, KiCad etc.

author: 4cx10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 07:37:38 pm
content: Could be a software - LochMaster - by a German company named Abacom, it looks pretty close, have a look:http://www.abacom-online.de/uk/html/lochmaster.htmlOf course there are, as TheAmmoniacal wrote, other and better schematic drawing software to choose, but still it is an option if you work with small, quick built circuits.

author: TheAmmoniacal
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 07:38:56 pm
content: Does indeed look very much like LochMaster. Great

author: wblackledg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 07:48:06 pm
content: Found it.Its called diy layout.https://github.com/bancika/diy-layout-creator/releases

author: wblackledg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 30, 2016, 07:50:09 pm
content: thanks to all!

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2017, 03:26:02 am
content: I hate drawings like that, they're so much harder to read than a regular schematic. It's probably easier for a 10 year old to breadboard a circuit that way but after the first or second project one really ought to learn to read a schematic.
Learn PCB/CAD design and Standards - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: birlac
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 22, 2017, 11:13:12 pm
content: Hello EveryoneI am new to PCB design and i am using ORCAD PCB editor and Eagle. The tutorial videos on youtube seem to be fine to start with. Can you suggest me some more tutorials or documentations to start with?Also, i was looking for standards for designing a PCB but got mixed up. A little help with this too would be really appreciated.

author: Mattylad
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2017, 06:00:45 pm
content: As your in the states, then looking up IPC-7351 should be easy enough.This is the standard for component footprints, also look at IPC-600\610.Look up your countries specific EMC and low voltage standards.
Is my Boost Converter schematic alright? [Those who help get a virtual cookie]  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EdimarDigital
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 22, 2017, 05:22:36 pm
content: Hello everyone, I'm new to electronics and i want to create a digital watch just like the ChronodeVFDhttp://www.johngineer.com/blog/?p=1595. I will be using a AA battery as my source but we all know micro-controllers need at least 3.3V or more to work and a single cell just delivers 1.5V which is not enough. So i selected a Texas Instruments TPS61070http://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/tps61070.pdfto deliver the necessary voltage. I created a schematic which i believe should output 3.3V according to the datasheets, but being the total amateur i am to this (since I'm only 17 years old with barely any experience) i need a professional to take a look at the schematic and point out the flaws and what can i do to make work efficiently.

author: Warhawk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2017, 01:50:58 pm
content: Hi,see below:add junctions in your schematic (green dots)add optional capacitors (like 100nF) in paralel with C1 and C2. It is a good engineering habit. You don't need to assembly them unless you need to.your voltage divider is set wrong. Use formula 1 from the datasheet. R2 should be 180k in your case.don't forget to read the PCB layout guidelines in the datasheet. You can also get some inspiration from here:http://www.ti.com/tool/PMP8523?keyMatch=TPS61070&tisearch=tidesignsI suggest you build a small PCB and test the circuitry first. A board from oshpark.com will be very cheap. Place your board here (web-friendly format) before ordering so we can review it.
Circuit Maker - Little red line stopping me from drawing trace over it. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Jackster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 22, 2017, 07:26:38 pm
content: I am sure it is something like a drill line or something? I forked this project and completely redesigned the layout but this is still there.What is it?ThanksJack,

author: Jackster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 22, 2017, 09:50:46 pm
content: Was the Keep out layer./thread
Can't Find IR2304 in Multisim (13) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: johnnyblaz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 26, 2017, 02:13:43 pm
content: Hi there.I'm unable to find IR2304 in Multisim (version 2013). Kindly help me out as i don't want to redesign my circuit just because I can't find the MOSFET Driver in Multisim.Or is there another MOSFET Driver that I can use as a replacement ?Thanks in advance
Flexible polyimide PCBs - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: LukeW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2016, 08:59:13 am
content: I'm looking for some board fab in flexible polyimide.Small batch of about 10 boards for prototyping, or even just a few, depending on the economics.135 x 17mm dimensions.2 layer copper, and "typical" cheap design rules, i.e. 6/6 with 13 thou smallest drills.Can anyone recommend a cheap place?

author: LukeW
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2017, 07:13:04 pm
content: I need a flexible PCB in 135mm x 17mm, and Seeed apparently only supports a width up to 100mm.(2-layer needed, and nothing really tight in design rules.)Any other recommendations?

author: miceuz
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 03:45:36 pm
content: Try Elecrow. I was quoting them for custom PCBs recently, I'm not sure, but I think they have a custom size flex PCB service.

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2017, 12:44:25 pm
content: Just have a look at this also,http://www.technotronix.us/flex-rigid-flex-technology.html
Soldering small wires to very small connections (such as unused pins on QFPs) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2016, 05:28:54 pm
content: What's the best way to do it and have them remain there? Thats the typical use case - sometimes I want to have a test point so I can view a waveform - sometimes its to extract a timing signal, mostly just a one time thing. I would like to know how to do this better.Currently I use teflon coated or magnet wire, I try to tin just a tiny bit, I use lots of flux, I inspect afterward in microscope. The problem is the area available for soldering is often really tiny. Typically I'll succeed but then the wire just doesn't stay in place, nomatter how well I fasten it.For example, I have one board that needs to have two tiny wires connected to a chip and that space is just almost nothing. Its very difficult to get it to stick for good. Even with hot glue anchoring the wires.Are there any products designed to press a test lead to a specific spot and hold it there that don't cost an arm and a leg?

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2016, 07:19:43 pm
content: You can DIY a tripod holder or just buy one (probe tip makes the tripod). Personally, I'd recommendProbemaster's Spring Loaded Probes(pogo pin) as they're sharp enough to engage a single pin. Weight of the tripod configuration keeps it in place.Here's a few threads...Oscilloscope Probe Holder With Visionprobe positioners: any good recommendations?I need a better (cheap) probe(holder) for measuring signals on arbitrary devices

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2016, 10:32:07 pm
content: pogo pins would definitely help a lot. It would be very useful - just for troubleshooting, to have the ability to position probes precisely without fear of shorting something. I am going to try to make something out of a cheap focusing rail attachment.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 31, 2016, 02:45:10 am
content: Very thin (like a hair) enamel coated wire works when using a reasonably small soldering tip. You have to use leaded solder though because this will pull the enamel wire right onto the center of the pin or pad.

author: donmr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2017, 10:07:18 pm
content: First tin the connection point.Then I take fine stranded wire and pull out one strand.Glue or tape it to the board (with tape under if needed for insulation) so the end goes past where it will connect.Then, working under the microscope, bend/cut the wire so it ends at the right place.Finally apply a little flux and heat.
Considerations for outsourcing PCB manufacturing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: VinzC
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 01:32:52 pm
content: Hi all.I'm planning to have my boards assembled outside. Since gEDA is my current development suite are there any considerations I need to follow? My first thought is about footprints and the reference point — I have created most of my footprints and not all do have the reference point in the middle of the case but on a pin, for instance, which I suspect it matters. Also, what about the use of attributes in the schematics? Are there any recommendations, guidelines...?Thanks for any hint/suggestion.

author: ScribblesOnNapkins
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 05:25:18 pm
content: The reference point should be design be in the "centroid" of the part for the pick and place to best grab it. Sometimes the manufactures specify an alternative spot. For more info on this try the geda mailing list.

author: VinzC
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 11:02:49 am
content: Quote from: ScribblesOnNapkins on January 15, 2017, 05:25:18 pmThanks ScribblesOnNapkins. This means I need to pay a visit to all of my custom footprints, as I expected. So my assumption was right then?I also found apick and place helperscript by Russ Dill — haven't tried it yet though. Do you think it also works with pcb-rnd? Do you think it's still useful at all?

author: ScribblesOnNapkins
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2017, 08:37:38 am
content: As with any random code you find on the internet: Ask the author.
Is it posible to make a board at cheap manufacturer suitable to 0.8mm pitch BGA - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Miyuki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 03:07:31 pm
content: HelloI want to ask if someone have an experience with trying to put 0.8mm pitch BGA on pcb from any cheap Chinese manufacturer with 6/6 mil routes and 0.3mm drillI can easy route 1mm pitch BGA on this specs, but as all RAM chips are at 0.8mm pitch I cant route track between pads and via will too bigIs here any other solution than to put via in pad and try luck ?Any real experience or advice than use better manufacturing process ?

author: wraper
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 12, 2017, 03:56:35 pm
content: PCBWIN has 5/5mil and 0.25mm hole by default. Edit, though, price wise they shine when you are making a larger order. For a few proto PCBs, they are not the cheapest. Still 5/5 mil from them is significantly cheaper that the same from PCBway even at low quantities.

author: Miyuki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2017, 08:42:26 am
content: As I need just one piece PCBWIN price is huge

author: jc101
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2017, 11:18:46 am
content: Have you looked at Eurocircuits?If you're using Eagle you can just upload the .brd file to get a price.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 11:18:39 am
content: Quote from: Miyuki on January 12, 2017, 03:07:31 pmOptimise the connections to the memory in a way you don't need vias even if it means placing the memory further away. This may take a couple of hours of trying various part orientations but IMHO it is well worth it. On dense boards vias are always huge obstacles.
Nonzero voltage accross opamp inputs (LTSpice) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Brutte
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 11:12:48 am
content: I am simulating a modified follower circuit in LTSpice 4.20 (XP) and I have no idea why differential input voltage Ua-Ub jumps around by 10mV here. As a consequence in such follower an output voltage Uout=Ua does not follow input Ub..I use a generic ideal ".include op-amp.sub" here. The GBW is 1MHz. Aol=100dB so with 10mV input the output should go to 1kV while only 10V is required here so that looks like finite Aol is not the cause. The load is an ideal current source, 1mA amplitude 1kHz sine. I expected the Uout to be near 0V.Where does that "offset voltage" come from? Is it from LTSpice or that is the physics of an opamp?BTW, I do not want to remove R2 but to understand where that discrepancy comes from. This is a part of bigger circuit.

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2017, 12:43:25 pm
content: Open Loop Gain=100K, Gain*bandwidth=1MHz =>3dB Corner frequency=10Hz.At 1KHz the effective open loop gain is only 1K (60dB).To produce 1mA through a 10K resistor (R2) the OPAMP must output 10V (relaqtive to its - in) 10V. At a frequency where its gain is 1K, it needs 10mV input differential to do so.
Would it be worth it to learn Electric VLSI (GNU electric) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cbgpedalmaker
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 28, 2016, 12:39:58 pm
content: I'm already half way decent at using Kicad and LT Spice. Being a Linux user, I was checking the Debian software packages a few months ago and came across Gnu Electric VLSI. I have it installed and have played with it somewhat, but I am unsure if it would be worth the time and effort to devote to learning to use it(I work 40 hrs a week, go to school part time, and have 4 kids. Hence, why I don't have all the free time in the world. Are there any other GNU/fsf Pcb/cad packages available that anyone could recommend to me over (or alongside) any of the other aforementioned software?
Altium/Protel - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Productions0Red
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 21, 2016, 10:25:27 pm
content: Hello Everyone!This is a humble corner for people who want to talk about Altium/Protel stuff.[/FEEL FREE TO POST ANYTHING YOU WANT!b]

author: Bud
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 21, 2016, 10:47:51 pm
content: We already have Altium message board, why we need one more.

author: SimonR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2016, 08:07:58 pm
content: I can't enter the poll I don't use any of the options

author: julianhigginson
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2016, 08:52:08 am
content: Quote from: SimonR on December 22, 2016, 08:07:58 pmwell maybe you should!

author: maggotronix
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2016, 03:09:40 pm
content: Kicad
Looking for a 3d model for kicad, 24 pin connector - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Doc Daneeka
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 29, 2016, 12:13:09 pm
content: Hi all,This is probably just wishful thinking, but would anyone by chance know of 3d models for these kind of connectors?http://docs-europe.electrocomponents.com/webdocs/0d7b/0900766b80d7b2b7.pdfor any more info at all really on them?It seems hard to find much info on them unfortunately (every single connector manufacturer's website has a search function that seems returns 'no result' regardless of what you type in, even for current product lines and 'invalid part number' for any part number...), i guess they are discontinued although there are plenty of 'copies' out there.

author: Farley
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 29, 2016, 02:44:25 pm
content: You could try calling FCI. Many manufacturers have 3D models available but they aren't always available on their website.
Arrow Orcad - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Bassman59
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 16, 2016, 09:54:31 pm
content: Yet another entry into the cloud-based design arena:https://www.arrow.com/en/research-and-events/videos/introducing-orcad-capture-cloud

author: PCB.Wiz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2016, 02:26:59 am
content: The driving force behind these fluffy marketing directions, seems to be purely capture of customers, nothing to do with the design flow itself.Hasanyoneon hereeverdesigned a product that could be sensibly sourced from only one Disti ?We find those pesky non-cloud and non-warm-fuzzies intrusions calledPriceandAvailabilitydictate what we can make, more than any logo on a website.Engineering is the art of making what you want, from what you can get.
LTspice step parameter data in .mout files - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: not1xor1
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2016, 12:02:17 pm
content: I could not find a way to get the values of stepped parameters in the .mout file (i.e. the file produced when running .meas scripts in LTspice).It was not a problem for voltages:.meas Vdd param (V(VDD))but the only workaround I found so far for resistors was to just use the ohm law:.meas tran Rstep avg (V(n_x, n_y)/I(R_z)) from 30m to 31mI wonder if anybody knows a more direct waythanks
What old software is used? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: 001
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2016, 05:08:38 pm
content: What software is used to draw this 'pixelised' schematic? Is it vintage (1990th probably)?

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2016, 07:05:26 pm
content: Ha. I played with a program that did something like that on BK-0010. It had no notion of electrical connection, you just place things graphically and that's it. It was more than 20 years ago, so I don't remember the name, obviously.

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2016, 07:30:33 pm
content: Its almost certainly created post 1996. This is indicated by the use of the high and low directional curly double quotes below the connector legend 'X1'[.Any schematic capture package will pixelize if its coopy/pasted from a screenshot or rendered to a bitmapped graphics format.The most distinctive thing about that schematic is the LED symbols.

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2016, 07:36:18 pm
content: Quote from: Ian.M on December 11, 2016, 07:30:33 pmI don't follow. Quote marks like this are a requirement of Soviet standards (GOST), so software supported them.

author: 001
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2016, 07:59:05 pm
content: Thanx for allThis is ORCAD for DOS, v3.11 mid 1990thQuoteNo anyway. Soviet and nowday Russian schematics looks like:

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2016, 08:54:59 pm
content: This schematic has no labeled connectors. Here are a few samples from the same BK-0010 schematics with labeled connectors. This schematic was drawn in 1989.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2016, 09:26:00 pm
content: Quote from: 001 on December 11, 2016, 05:08:38 pmOrCad SDT under DOS. this pixelised effect is due to the libraries not being vector but raster based. a symbol was made from * and . and then 'compiled' into a symbol.example :....*******......P**..........*.........*.........***pP**..........*.........*******......

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2016, 09:29:15 pm
content: Quote from: free_electron on December 12, 2016, 09:26:00 pmSupport for Cyrillic letters threw me off. P-CAD 4.5 from the same era had major problems with Russian language.
Cropping Gerbers????.....  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Smokey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2016, 07:27:14 am
content: Is there any way to take the gerbers for a whole multi-layer board and crop one small section of all the layers out? I need to show a section of a design to someone but don't want to give them the full gerbers set for the whole board.If you can do it with Altium, that's perfect. If not, what do you use?

author: janekm
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 22, 2016, 07:30:14 am
content: What's wrong with screenshots?Otherwise I'm sure this is something that could be done in CAM350, but that software is so convoluted that I can't really recommend it for a one-off usecase...

author: Smokey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2016, 07:45:42 am
content: Quote from: janekm on September 22, 2016, 07:30:14 am... Funny. That's what I said.

author: Smokey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2016, 06:25:07 pm
content: bump for the day time crowd....

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 04:46:57 am
content: export Gerber. load gerber in camtastic. (part of altium) crop.or better : plop board in draftsman and make exploded view.

author: Ammar
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2016, 10:44:02 pm
content: Save the screenshots with the gerber extension and then get them to open it with an image viewer

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2016, 02:01:01 am
content: or learn gerber code and crop out unnecessary polygons in notepad

author: bpiphany
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2016, 05:44:54 pm
content: Or use gerbv to select and delete the parts you don't want. Didn't I just answer this in another thread?..
Panel Wiring SW - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: garboui
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2016, 01:18:11 pm
content: Theres many workable free options for schematic capture like eagle, ki can, etc... Is there similar for generating panel wiring diagrams for relay logic, IO points etc...? Or is kludging it in SCH capture still the best option? Something basic would probably suffice as its mostly to document test stand panels/wiring.

author: lwatts666
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 07, 2016, 09:39:55 pm
content: Take a look at the "Elektro" example and associated Library in Eagle.Its all in German, but might be suitable for your needs.

author: cravenhaven
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2016, 09:56:47 pm
content: Doesnt Designspark have an electrical version?.

author: N2IXK
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2016, 03:31:58 am
content: For electrical control panels and ladder logic, I like this one:http://www.wadeinstruments.com/ez_schematics/description.htm

author: LabSpokane
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2016, 04:11:46 am
content: Quote from: N2IXK on December 08, 2016, 03:31:58 amWow! Even the license at $99 is practically free compared to Autodesk's.
Editing and visualizing a bunch of coordinates - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Alex Eisenhut
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 30, 2016, 02:09:28 pm
content: I want to create complex schematic symbol graphics by shoving in my list of coordinates into a EDIF file. It works manually, it's just tedious.Is there a simple utility that can take a text list of XY coordinates, scale and offset them, and output the result back into a text file?From the command line?Otherwise I have to write some scripts and I just don't feel up to it right now.Like there's Dot and a bunch of "graph" utilities, but I want "graphics".I'd love to be able to create a png or gif from the list as well, as a sanity check before I go through the EDIF importing.The coordinates would simply define the vertices of a polygon. It's just point to point lines. Like LOGO I guess.Any leads?
Eagle: holes appearing in the stencils - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: gussabina
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 21, 2016, 09:53:01 pm
content: Hello:I'm using Eagle. I was having an issue with my PCBs when assembling them, where the holes (no trace, just holes for screws) are having solder paste... Checking the stencil, the holes are there. I realized when generating gerbers, the top and bottom solder paste files are configured to include not only the corresponding cream layer but also the Dimension (20) layer, which actually holds the holes.Checking other configurations and tutorials, this seems to be Ok. So I'm wondering if actually the holes shouldn't be in the Dimension layer or what else would be wrong....I would appreciate any help on this.ThanksGus

author: vzoole
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2016, 07:54:32 am
content: You have to use top or bottom cream layer only to generate stencil gerber.

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2016, 05:03:40 pm
content: Try to generate the gerber files with the cam files in these zips. Work for me.http://www.elecrow.com/wiki/index.php?title=How_to_export_gerber_files_from_eagle_file
how good is the altium simulator? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bnevins
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 30, 2016, 07:16:34 pm
content: I have heard that the altium simulator is not very good, compared to orcad/pspice. Just wonder what people here think.wanted to put his in the altium designer section.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 30, 2016, 09:06:59 pm
content: Average compared with others in the lower range (free to low $k). Numerical stability for trig and PWL functions sucks. PSpice and LTSpice I think both have hacks for convergence and speed, important when working with PWL models (which are dumb, but lots of people write them, so..). Ease of use comparable to most.It's definitely lagging behind the rest of the product. I suppose since no one uses transistors anymore, and IC manufacturers no longer release SPICE models*, that doesn't matter to them.*As in 3f5 or XSPICE compatible models. Sure, lots of companies releaseencryptedmodels. Or proprietary models for high-buck environments (like HSPICE), or their own proprietary environments (TI, AD and LT...). None of those count, none of them are universal.Tim

author: bnevins
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 02, 2016, 11:06:36 am
content: thanks. Hard to justify shelling out $9k when the simulator may be worse than my old orcad.

author: mstevens
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 02, 2016, 02:24:06 pm
content: I made the mistake of purchasing Altium, it was Protel 99 back then, for simulation. Altium's focus is PCB not simulation. If you really need simulation you should use a different package. Don't purchase it in hopes that Altium will eventually provide a descent simulation engine. I have been wishing for that for about 15 years or so.

author: Bud
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 02, 2016, 04:00:06 pm
content: Come on people, For only $9K you get a simulator with non-resizable charts.
EasyEDA vs Upverter  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: vivid
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 16, 2016, 10:35:34 am
content: For the two products, there’s no need to install any software. They all run in any HTML5 capable, standards compliant web browser.Has anyone usedEasyEDA,Upverteror both?I have played around with EasyEDA a little before, this Design and simulation platform have become quite famous over the couple of years. The first thing i noticed is it’s part library is quite massive and there is plenty of parts to pick from. Conversion of PCB design from circuit was actually pretty easy with no hassles. I didn't try Upverter, it looks very impressive,too.I'm wondering what the notable differences are between these free, browser-based EDA packages are. Further, would you recommend EasyEDA or Upverter? Or something else altogether?Thank you.
Micro SD Cards - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: robotix3
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 16, 2016, 12:42:32 am
content: I've always wondered, why do microSD cards look like they were hand-drawn? I guess the obvious answer is that they are indeed hand-drawn, but why?Or I guess impedance matching + teardrops + weird GND plane pattern makes it look hand-drawn.
Altium - Sheet title block in assembly drawing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mad ID
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 31, 2013, 01:39:17 pm
content: Hello, I'm trying to set up sheet title for printing assembly drawings. As used by Altium, my Mechanical layer 16 is linked to sheet.What bothers me is printing of the bottom assembly where I must use the mirror option. In that case the title block is also mirrored.Is there a solution for this? I know I could use two mechanical layers, one with non-mirrored title block and the other with mirrored title block.I appreciate any help.Thank you!

author: Ondre
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 15, 2016, 01:01:04 pm
content: Hi. Same problem here. Have you solved it in the meantime?
Upcoming Auctions - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: chris_leyson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2016, 07:20:56 pm
content: Got an email from X-Line Assets, upcoming auctions this time in US, lot of Hakko stuff and a few stereo microscopes,http://smt.xlineassets.com/Damn it, it's in the wrong catagory should have been in general chat, it's PCB related so I can get away with itI'm registered with X-Line so just a heads up for the guys on the other side of the pond.