hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
voltage for electrolictic condensers - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 15, 2010, 04:44:17 pm
content: what sort of margin should be used in selecting capacitor voltages ? I opened up a peice of equipment at work meant to go on 24 V vehicle systems and found a 25 V capacitor on the inputme figures it's a time bomb ? maybe 35 V is ok but perhaps 50 being a vehicle with spikes floating around ?

author: mlaargh
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2010, 06:17:39 pm
content: For anything more than a one of, I think the standard is to double the expected voltage value. I've seen some pretty tight margins in commercial products as well, though.Have also seen a lot of exploded caps...

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 15, 2010, 06:28:31 pm
content: and you don't really want an exploded cap on a circuit in an air con system in a military vehicle !

author: jahonen
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2010, 06:29:03 pm
content: 25 V rated caps are definitely not enough for a 24 volts nominal system, as the actual voltage can be quite a bit higher (more likely something like 28 volts). And, for critical automotive systems, there is a requirement for tolerance of so-called load dump, which can generate transients of 200 volts (during the test). For normal use, 50 volts rated voltage would be ok for a conservative design.Regards,Janne

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 15, 2010, 06:45:22 pm
content: yea well as it is we know there is a "spiky" power supply and as far as i know 24 V vehilcle = 30 V full charge power before you think of spikes etc
DivX convertion software - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 11, 2010, 02:00:39 pm
content: Well I thought I'd ask, I prefer to keep films on my pc and watch them that was as DivX files, if anything it means I don't have to listen to the DVD player making a lot of noise. but my old simpledivx software is so slow and a bit touchy, is there a freeware one anyone can recomend ?

author: djsb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 11, 2010, 03:09:34 pm
content: Hi,This software claims to convert just about every format and it's free.http://www.erightsoft.com/SUPER.htmlDownload link is herehttp://www.erightsoft.biz/GetFile.php?SUPERsetup.exeLet me know if it worksDavid

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 11, 2010, 03:15:39 pm
content: well after going through 3 pages and hunting for links while dodging adverts I'm downloading "the one" I'll let you know how it turns out

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 11, 2010, 03:59:33 pm
content: well I've had to manually add each individual DVD file and I think it will convert them as such, I beleive that this is more of a format to format converter than a DVD ripping software, there seem to be a lot of transcoders around these days but not a lot of programs that will convert a DVD to DivX but then I think since blank DVD's and DVD writers are cheap now no one really bothers to DivZX their films anymore
Recommend me a LC/LCR Meter! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: domm123
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2010, 04:37:18 am
content: Hi guys, i am now in search of a handheld inductance meter. probably something not so expensive? and do those chinese meter works?

author: migsantiago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2010, 03:40:27 pm
content: You could build one yourself...http://www.todopic.com.ar/foros/index.php?topic=26840.0

author: Anders
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2010, 05:59:58 pm
content: There’s a nice project (LCF meter) in the February 2004 issue of Everyday Practical Electronics.

author: mttee2
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2010, 12:36:00 am
content: If you really want to buy one, you can buy the TH2821A, TH2821B, or TH2821 from TongHui in Ebay. Personally, I never heard that company name but I bought one. The meter construction looks cheap but its' capacitance and resistance measurements are as accuracy to the fluke I have.Anyway, if you running in low budget. You better build your own. You will learn more by building one.Feel free to share your experience building one.
How to kill a major IT project without killing your career - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Ferroto
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2010, 06:00:08 pm
content: http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/tech-manager/?p=3275

author: DJPhil
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 06, 2010, 01:09:50 am
content: Yikes!Reading stuff like this reminds me that I'm not cut out for management. I can't imagine having to worry about people and politics, it's just an alien landscape for me. I'm a born technician, I'd much rather have a frustrating problem to deal with than a frustrating person. To each their own, I suppose.If anyone needs me just follow the smell of burnt flux and solvents. I'll be adding RFID capability and a 'this jerk didn't make a new pot' alarm to the coffee machine.

author: RayJones
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 09, 2010, 11:49:14 pm
content: More important is the "jug ready" alert
Fluke 87V Industrial True RMS Multimeter Special Edition - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: karthik4096
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 08, 2010, 01:53:06 pm
content: http://www.myflukestore.com/p7964/fluke_87v_multimeter_special_edition.phpwith clear plastic cover for $299.

author: logictom
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 08, 2010, 02:30:43 pm
content: Not as sexy as I was hopinglol

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2010, 03:44:30 pm
content: Just got my 87 V ( or 5 ) , before 6 hours on ebay ..At 225$ , sparkling one ..With some extra leads , that I do not know their value yet ..Here is the link ..http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270555009910

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 08, 2010, 09:36:20 pm
content: Ah, so they are selling it now.I thought you could only get one through contests and promos.I agree, not as sexy as you'd expect, kinda looks cheap and fake. And seems distractingly reflective, but that could just be the photo.Dave.

author: Kiriakos-GR
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2010, 10:50:26 pm
content: Even if I dislike the look of the " special offer " , there is something positive to it ..You could possibly add green led 's , as back light around the selector ..This could be possibly named as the ( Fluke back light Mod )
Charming electronic antique magazines - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: celsung
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 06, 2010, 01:07:07 pm
content: Sorry, its in italian, but they are very charming:http://www.introni.it/riviste_radiorama.html

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 06, 2010, 03:35:53 pm
content: Very interesting link, Italian ? no problem I'm fluentthey remind me of a lot of the mags my dad used to have, maybe we should have a specific thread that only dave can edit with a list of stuff like this, or better still a page for it on the main website

author: celsung
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 06, 2010, 08:02:31 pm
content: Good idea!!!
Anyone getting Bad Request error messages on the blog? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 03, 2010, 04:07:12 am
content: Is anyone else getting the following error when trying to view specific pages on the blog?"Bad RequestYour browser sent a request that this server could not understand.Size of a request header field exceeds server limit."Dave.

author: desolatordan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2010, 04:23:53 am
content: Nope.

author: armandas
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2010, 09:46:08 am
content: Had it a couple of times.And checked just now - yes, I do get an error.

author: qno
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2010, 12:03:13 pm
content: Yes me too!

author: csadzuki
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 03, 2010, 02:56:25 pm
content: Me too. I had to delete some of the cookies, that solved the problem.

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 03, 2010, 03:46:21 pm
content: don't recall the exact text but i got an error

author: rossmoffett
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2010, 06:14:00 pm
content: I can't read the comments on your newest Rigol modification blog because of that error. It's been annoying since the day after you posted it.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 03, 2010, 09:54:31 pm
content: Hmm, interesting.At first I thought it was a bandwidth issue with the server, but now it does appear to be some sort of issue with Wordpress in some way.Might have to ask the Wordpress geeks.Thanks.Dave.

author: RayJones
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2010, 01:27:23 am
content: Yep, can't dig up your first video blog, as spurred on by your latest effort.

author: XynxNet
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2010, 07:04:39 pm
content: Got one too, while/after writing a comment.A restart of firefox solved the problem.Here is the error message. If you don't need it, feel free to delete the quote.Quote
PIC / AVR showdown: which should I use ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 26, 2010, 02:22:27 pm
content: Ok now I'm not after starting a fight, but after daves PIC versus AVR blog I got thinking, I have a power management project for vehicles that requires an ADC and PWM output, as it is for a car which has an ever constant variation in operating conditions it needs to operate quikly to adapt, a 12F615 @ 8 MHz just handled this but I wanted to make it a bit more robust, would an AVR uC be better for this sort of thing ? I remeber Dave saying in his blog that AVR's are more efficient although who cares because of the speed of any uC anyhow, well in my case it is the determining factor.OK so please a civil discussion about this

author: armandas
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2010, 06:24:45 pm
content: I'd like to restate what Dave said: it does not matter. You already got a PIC, and since you run it at only 8 MHz, I'd say get a faster clock.Get an AVR, when you're ready for something new.

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 26, 2010, 06:30:33 pm
content: the faster the pic runs the higher the minimum PWM frequency is, idealy I need a 125 Hz PWM output but can settle for 250, but that means running the pic at 4 MHz, my thought was if the pic takes 4 cycles / instruction and the AVR takes 1 then in a similar situation with the AVR I would have the same PWM frequency but effectively 4 time the code speed,after looking into it a bit more I think that I may be able to pull it off with a pic which is the best was as I already have the pic's and the programmer and the knowledge needless to say I have already developed the program.

author: David
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2010, 06:56:59 pm
content: If you want a quick way to produce a faster clock, use the internal PLL (If its supported).Dave

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 26, 2010, 07:04:53 pm
content: how do I do that ? are you refering to chips like the 18F1220 that has a X4 PLL, will the PWM run off the crystal clock and the pic core off the PLL simulataneously ?, if I increase the clock in other devices like the 12F615 I now use the PWM minimum frequency also increases.

author: Anders
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2010, 06:17:24 pm
content: I tried AVR’s when I started with micros a few years ago but I found the ADC’s much too slow for many apps. I have used PIC’s ever since and I don’t look back. Hopefully the AVR ADC’s have improved since then but I’m not sure.

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 04, 2010, 06:25:52 pm
content: well I'm already pic prepared so might as well stick with them
Slashdot - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 03, 2010, 11:16:01 pm
content: In a shameless attempt to get more hits and viewers I've submitted the Rigol Hack to Slashdot:http://slashdot.org/submission/1208312/Serial-port-command-hack-for-Rigol-OscilloscopeIs anyone in a position to help approve stuff on Slashdot by any chance?I've tried a few times times before and all have been rejectedThanks.Dave.

author: desolatordan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2010, 11:33:04 pm
content: I hope your web server will actually be able to withstand it...

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 03, 2010, 11:40:36 pm
content: Quote from: desolatordan on April 03, 2010, 11:33:04 pmI liken it to Tax, it's a good problem to have!Dave.

author: rossmoffett
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2010, 12:05:39 am
content: Slashdot is crowd-sourced. There's a firehose channel where you can rate things if you are a member. I have excellent karma at Slashdot but I don't think I (nor anyone here) am in a position to help you with that because of the nature of the beast. Only an editor could do that for you, I think.Try other sites, like reddit, delicious and digg for better luck. Stumbleupon draws lots of hits for niche users, I'll tag it in electronics engineering for you.edit: I take that back.. I still can't view the page because of the error it throws, so I can't grab a link for it.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 04, 2010, 12:13:19 am
content: Quote from: rossmoffett on April 04, 2010, 12:05:39 amGrr, that message is getting annoying, but worked for my half an hour ago!You can still right click and copy/paste the link:http://www.eevblog.com/2010/03/31/eevblog-70-turn-your-rigol-ds1052e-oscilloscope-into-a-100mhz-ds1102e/A get a fair few hits from Stumbleupon, so I'm on there somewhere.ThanksDave.
Daves New Blog - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Rowland
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 01, 2010, 06:14:41 pm
content: Well done on the new format blog Dave! This must be an exciting opportunity for you.More resources will be good for the blog, BUT will this to some extent narrow things down a bit ie only one manufacturers products? Hmm lets wait and seeMy money is on Fluke 8-) 2:1Rigol 1000:1

author: Rowland
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 01, 2010, 06:22:37 pm
content: UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUgh, Im thick! Just seen the other comments.Please excuse The new subject postings.Sorry Guys Do I win any prize?

author: TheDirty
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2010, 06:36:14 pm
content: This makes the joke twice as funny.

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 02, 2010, 07:16:28 am
content: Quote from: Rowland on April 01, 2010, 06:22:37 pmUh do you think you would like the prize for falling for an april fools ? can't beleive dave kept a straight face for 2 min 40 sec, don't worry it could be worse, you could be born on april fools day like me
pocket version of spice for android smartphones - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: KTP
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2010, 04:42:16 pm
content: LTspice is required for use in my EE undergrad classes (mostly on the labs). I have found it quite useful also to double check a homework answer (for instance verifying I did the inverse Laplace transform of a given circuit correctly) to the point where I made a perfect score in the class (thanks Linear Tech!)It may sound a bit geeky, but I was wondering if someone is working on a lite version of spice that would work on an Android smartphone (specifically my 1Ghz snapdragon Nexus One). It has the processing power probably of a late 90s era Intel class desktop machine and I know spice has been around a lot longer than that. My wife was asking if there were any apps I would like written for the phone as she is interested in doing some development (she is a brilliant software engineer). Asking her to develop a full blown android spice simulator might be a bit much

author: DJPhil
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2010, 06:16:06 pm
content: That's an interesting idea! I'd be a bit worried about the data entry, but the power is very likely there.The only thing that comes to mind is the work ofPaul Falstad, specifically hisjava circuit sim applet. It's functionality is not designed to be as extensive as spice, but it's still very useful for tinkering with small, primarily analog circuits. There's a lot of hidden functionality within, like the ability to redraw the examples, change values, and so on. He does include thesource codeon his site as well.At very least it may make a good starting point, and perhaps he'd be willing to collaborate.Hope that helps.
TV tuners for PC - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Auggie
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2010, 05:59:14 am
content: Does anyone know if HD pc tv tuners get satellite channels even if you don't have a satellite service?

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 18, 2010, 07:49:21 am
content: I doubt it they work the same as conventional receivers but just make the PC do all the work as they are juast a tuning box with relevant circuitry

author: desolatordan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2010, 05:10:54 am
content: Quote from: Auggie on March 18, 2010, 05:59:14 amI think you'll need to illegally decode/decrypt the satellite signals if you're not paying for the service.

author: Zero999
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2010, 09:07:50 am
content: Quote from: desolatordan on March 19, 2010, 05:10:54 amWhy would you need to do that?You can get HD for free legally.

author: desolatordan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2010, 03:29:26 pm
content: Quote from: Hero999 on March 19, 2010, 09:07:50 amHe's asking about satellite, not terrestrial broadcast.

author: Zero999
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2010, 10:50:20 pm
content: You can get satellite TV for free legally. Maplin sell kits.http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=218642&C=SO&U=strat15

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 19, 2010, 10:53:04 pm
content: maybe he is refering to the channels you have to pay for ?

author: desolatordan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2010, 01:13:17 am
content: Quote from: Hero999 on March 19, 2010, 10:50:20 pmCool, never seen those before. Looks like what he's looking for.

author: Auggie
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2010, 07:17:30 am
content: What I am trying to do is watch satellite tv on my laptop. I know I need to get a PC tv tuner but I want to know if I can watch channels received by direct tv for example Discovery channel even if I dont pay for direct tv or have any kind of those services.

author: Zero999
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2010, 12:31:47 pm
content: I found lots of products using Google.Obviously, this will only work for free channels, if it's a pay channel, forget about it.Google for satellite TV tuner PChttp://www.ebuyer.com/product/159413

author: desolatordan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2010, 11:18:17 am
content: Quote from: Auggie on March 20, 2010, 07:17:30 amNo. Here are some of the free english channels, and their availability.http://www.lyngsat.com/freetv/United-States.html

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 21, 2010, 11:47:11 am
content: posted in wrong thread ignore or remove as applicable
ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE!!! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Ferroto
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2010, 03:01:03 pm
content: So what's your survival plans for when zombies attack. What kind of weapons could you create in a post-apocalyptic landscape. Use your imagination this could save your life one day.

author: migsantiago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2010, 10:37:39 pm
content: I don't know, maybe I won't be attacked by a zombie... I'll be the zombie

author: Emyr
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2010, 11:57:54 am
content: Rail gun.
Fluke VoltAlert Voltage Tester Recall March 2010: Model 1AC-I - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: comox
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2010, 10:44:02 pm
content: For those that may have a Fluke VoltAlert (Dave and myself included), Fluke announced a recall of a recent model of the VoltAlert this week. See the following site for further details:http://us.fluke.com/fluke/usen/support/safety/1acrecall.htmI have a Fluke VoltAlert, but not this particular model.
FE exam  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 24, 2010, 05:16:53 am
content: Can someone share ones thoughts about FE exam.Is it worth it? Is thee any return on the time invested?How hard is it?Is it better to take FE or wait a few years and go for PE or forget about it altogether?

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 08, 2010, 06:52:22 am
content: Does anyone know anything about FE exam?

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 08, 2010, 07:35:51 am
content: I may just be having a blonde moment, but what is FE and PE exam ?The only PE exam I am aware of is using CTPA (Computer aided Tomogrophy Pulmonary Angiogram) and QV (Ventilation-Perfusion Scan) scans for Pulmonary Embolisms

author: rossmoffett
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 08, 2010, 08:34:12 am
content: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fundamentals_of_Engineering_examhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Principles_and_Practice_of_Engineering_Exam

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 08, 2010, 05:59:04 pm
content: It depends on what you want, if you explain your circumstances and aspirations in the field people may be able to help

author: Junkey
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 09, 2010, 04:59:01 am
content: It depends on your major. Some degrees such as Civil and Mech it's much more recommended. As far as EE and CpE I haven't seen any jobs that require it.
David's red multimeter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Squirrel
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2010, 03:06:43 pm
content: I'm wondering. what multimeter is that red one, whitch David sometimes uses?It is shown example here:http://www.eevblog.com/2009/04/29/eevblog-6-part-2-of-2-why-cheap-chinese-multimeters-suck/

author: armandas
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2010, 06:39:09 pm
content: Here is the review of it:http://www.eevblog.com/2009/04/29/eevblog-6-part-1-of-2-meterman-37xr-multimeter-review/

author: PetrosA
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2010, 09:14:56 pm
content: Now sold by Amprobe.http://www.tequipment.net/Amprobe37XR-A.html
Dinosaur Electronics - It keeps going and going... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Veramacor
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2010, 10:11:45 pm
content: I was thinking about hacking into an old Hayes modem and I came across this beast! a 1964/65 acoustic modem that STILL WORKS.This guy shows it browsing Wikipedia at 300 baud using lynx (a text only browser)If anyone can share dinosaur electronics that still work I'd love to see it. I'd even accept a circa 1905 Light bulb that still turns onHave at it....

author: Zero999
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2010, 10:58:16 pm
content: The 741 op-amp, totally obsolete and still made!I have loads in my junkbox I'll probably never use.

author: Ferroto
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 10:24:06 pm
content: That's freekin awesome, always nice to see retro electronics still in use. That's by far the oldest piece of gear I've ever seen still working.He did mention it's analog. Since Its a digital circuit going into it, and since it's just 1's and 0's going out of it. Couldn't they have just used a tube to switch between two circuits. One producing a high and one low. and have an RJ-11 jack on the back.

author: Zero999
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2010, 12:27:17 pm
content: I've just watched the Youtube video, it's amazing that it still works!

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 26, 2010, 08:45:05 pm
content: what about all the 1960's quad amps still being used daily (albeit with replacement caps as they were not very clever at putting the right volateg ones in in those days). I have or did have when i lived in Italy a 1940's radiogram which eventually was reduced to just the radio/amp, I actually set it up as pc speakers at one point, it was the very best radio I'd ever used to pick up the BBC WWS on AM SW radio far superior sensitivity than the modern garbage you buy.If it wasn't for the fact that the people that rented our house while we were in Italy wrecked everything most of my dad's Valve radios would still work

author: abbtech
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 27, 2010, 01:34:55 am
content: That's amazing that it still works! What a piece of furniture, these days it would be made out of injected molded plastic.

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 03, 2010, 12:28:31 am
content: awesome...

author: ArtemisGoldfish
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2010, 11:53:29 pm
content: I quite like the dovetailing, very classy.

author: Neilm
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2010, 08:18:44 pm
content: When I saw that my first thought was of something I found at work - a box very similar to that with some very low value resistors (highest value 10 mohms) 0.1% accuracy. They were custom built by the company 40 years ago.
Check out this comic - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: armandas
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2010, 07:40:52 pm
content: Check out this comic:http://www.smbc-comics.com/index.php?db=comics&id=1829#comicHover your mouse pointer on the red dot at the bottom-left corner after you've finished reading!
the tiny hide symbol in eevblog site... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 03:23:43 am
content: jajajajajajjajajaja...i found this tiny symbol in almost every eevblog site it's on the south left corner of the site...jajajajaj...here is the link...http://stats.wordpress.com/g.gif?host=www.eevblog.com&rand=0.05892510898411274&blog=7306500&v=ext&post=582&ref=http://www.eevblog.com/episodes/i don't know if someone saw it but i think that fans will love to now about this curiosity...regards...

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 05:37:15 am
content: Huh?I don't see the smiley face.Anyone else?It's not something I put in if it's there.Dave.

author: rossmoffett
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 05:43:45 am
content: I see it.

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 07:04:34 am
content: you can't see it in the forum you got to go to the main or home site i don't know how to call it...

author: DJPhil
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 09:04:11 am
content: I see it as well, on theeevblog main page.I did notice it before, I just thought Dave was being cheeky.

author: Murphy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 09:45:17 am
content: Shows up in Chrome but not Firefox. (on either computer)Weird

author: joelby
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 10:12:25 am
content: It's a Wordpress.com statistics thing. Not sure why they have a smiley face - usually you'd just use a 1x1 transparent image, or more commonly these days, a bit of JavaScript and no image at all.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 10:30:01 am
content: Quote from: Murphy on February 25, 2010, 09:45:17 amAh, that explains it. I use Firefox. Shows up in IE.Kinda apt really, the smiley face has been my signature for decades!Dave.

author: jimmc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 12:00:58 pm
content: Shows up in Firefox 3.6 here.Jim

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 01:59:55 pm
content: yes it's a wordpress auto-symbol...it's sad when the legend dies...well thanks to my girlfriend to advice my about it...here are some examples...http://solitariogeorge.wordpress.com/http://ubuntulife.wordpress.com/thank you all to care about it...regards...

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 25, 2010, 06:35:27 pm
content: yep me sees it too in firefox
PCB etching problems in cold weather - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 21, 2010, 03:54:12 pm
content: Well obviously I etch in my shed to avoid damaging my house carpet. but with subzero temperatures (naturally just at the weekends) I've found it impossible to etch, it just does not happen. now I did forget my presensitized board in the shed so will this have harmed it ? I developed the exposed board in fairly cold caustic soda, will this have been an issue ? I did have my etching chemical heated with a heater and after a few days the entire board was etched but I could not get it to etch there and then and it started to eat everything including the copper i needed to keep. the board was well exposed.

author: fsleeman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2010, 04:40:27 pm
content: I think etching sub-zero temps is probably a deal breaker. I have etched at temps in the low 50Fs with room temp ferric chloride without problems, but at some point the reaction just won't work. Maybe you just need to get a space heaters in your shed or do it inside over a large plastic sheet.

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 24, 2010, 05:10:31 pm
content: well it's not so much the etching it's I think the photoresist not developing, the etching solution was heated up

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 24, 2010, 09:45:12 pm
content: I used to use hot water and then add my amonium persulphate to that. And to keep it warm I sat the plastic tub in the sink with hot water in the bottom.Dave.
Need help! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Auggie
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2010, 04:23:04 am
content: What is better? Meterman CR50 Capacitance/Resistance Meter - Brand New for $40 US or Meterman 30XR Digital Multimeter - Brand New -Fact.Seal for $35 US or Meterman 33XR Digital Multimeter Used for 30? Let me know what you think asap please thank you.Auggie

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 24, 2010, 05:43:51 am
content: How can you compare a dedicated capacitance and resistance meter to a multimeter?The 30XR and 33Xr are both manual ranging meters. I'd suggest you get auto ranging, manual range is a pain in the butt.Dave.

author: Auggie
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2010, 06:34:57 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on February 24, 2010, 05:43:51 amSorry Dave, but I am new to all of this I have no idea about multimeter s. I am just getting started in my second year of college and haven't even started my major courses. Don't mean to offend anyone.
Magazines, books.... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Auggie
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2010, 01:14:27 am
content: Does anyone know of some good and interesting magazines and books about electrical and electronic engineering?

author: djsb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2010, 11:49:52 am
content: Hi,Magazine (UK based and international) I read.1/ Everyday Practical Electronics (I buy back copies when needed).2/ Elektor (I buy any article of interest using online credits).3/ Circuit Cellar (I have every issue up to 2008 on cdrom, cheapest way to buy the magazine)Books.1/ The Art of Electronics, Horowitz and Hill.2/ Digital Signal Processing, Steve Smith.3/ The Circuit Designers Companion, Tim Williams.4/ Digital Electronics-A practical Approach, William Kleitz.5/ Programming 16 bit microcontrollers in C (PIC24), Lucio Di JasioLoads of others on programming.David.

author: rossmoffett
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2010, 02:15:53 pm
content: Go to your college library while you can, they'll be subscribed to every major EE journal there is. IEEE Spectrum is one that has some interesting circuits from time to time. There should be a few rows of EE books. I learned electronics from making vacuum tube guitar amps, so I had a blast in mine when I found all of the old tube electronics books.

author: djsb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2010, 09:23:23 pm
content: Hi,How did you get a start making the guitar amps? I'd like to try out making a valve guitar or power amp for fun.I've messed about with valves/tubes in the past when I was a teenager but not built/designed anything from scratch.Any good books on the subject?Thanks.David.

author: rossmoffett
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2010, 10:22:17 pm
content: offtopic/AX84.com. It all boils down to just a few things.. keep your input, output and power supply sections in their respective zones, twist all of your AC heater wires and place your transformers at right angles to one other with their bells facing different directions. There are a bunch of guides there for all sorts of other things in the project docs.I also hung out at theampage.orgforums a lot to glean extra knowledge, but I never bought a book. There are some great free ones on Google books, I'm sure. (EDIT: not to say I didn't read any, as I said, I checked a lot out in the library, but they weren't audio-centric, just to clear that up. I looked mostly at analog computing)/offtopic

author: Auggie
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2010, 06:58:36 am
content: Quote from: djsb on February 22, 2010, 11:49:52 am

author: Neilm
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2010, 07:36:07 pm
content: If you want a good guide to laying out PCBs which will improve the EMC performance and SNR go tohttp://www.compliance-club.com/and look for articles by Keith Armstrong. It is free to subscribe and download issues.
Thanks Dave!! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Auggie
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2010, 09:28:15 pm
content: Today was my writing proficiency exam for Cal State Long Beach University and the topic for my essay was about youtube, myspace, facebook, and twitter and how do they impact society, how they are beneficial and how they are harmful. I am thanking Dave because he made my beneficial paragraph so easy to write about. I mentioned his last video blog and how he says he has benefited from the income he gets from the ads and from the publicity he gets for his career. So thanks again Dave you made my essay much easier to write about.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 22, 2010, 12:05:48 am
content: Glad to be of assistance!Dave.
holes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Gamal
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 06, 2010, 01:44:39 am
content: What really are holes, and how are they different from current, I know they flow in opposite direction.

author: desolatordan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 06, 2010, 02:57:16 am
content: Holes flow in the direction of conventional current. Opposite the flow of electrons. You can best describe a hole as the absence of an electron. They behave somewhat differently from electrons on a microscopic level. Speaking in terms of electrons and holes make it easier to explain how semiconductors operate.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 06, 2010, 04:33:52 am
content: Quote from: desolatordan on January 06, 2010, 02:57:16 amAnd then once you learn it you realise that for all practical purposes you didn't really need to know it :->Dave.

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 08, 2010, 05:35:06 am
content: Just think of it like a bubble in a glass of water.Usually a water droplet will fall down due to the field (gravity) its in. However, the bubble rises up, in the opposite direction to the droplet!If you're outside modeling/microelectronics and just doing circuit design you should take dave's advice and save yourself heaps of time. You don't need to know it and it'll just slow you down. Just read the specs and enjoy!

author: RayJones
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2010, 01:41:07 am
content: It has always amused me the name electronics, it is accepted that electrons flow the opposite to conventional current.But once you get past that deep geek fact, everybody considers +ve -> -ve is how the current flows, which are the holes.So why isn't it called holtronics?

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 20, 2010, 11:45:34 pm
content: Thing is it took them so long to figure out the bloomer that it was too late to change all current literature and it certainly is now
I need tips! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Auggie
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 18, 2010, 06:34:53 am
content: Hello, my name is Auggie and I am a sophomore at Cal State Long Beach and I am majoring in Electrical engineering. Does anyone have any tips for me regarding studying or getting experience or anything you can think of?

author: Veramacor
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2010, 01:13:56 am
content: I'm afraid you are at a disadvantage Auggie,It looks like you are right in the center of 'silicone valley'I would say if you can get past the many distractions your area, that's a good start!In all seriousness going to college for an engineering degree requires a high degree of focus. The number one tip I can give you is go to EVERY class. I speak from experience on that one. You will get behind so quickly it's almost impossible to catch up unless you are one of those people who never need to study.Now just because you made it to all of your classes doesn't mean you wont fall asleep in them. Some of your courses will with out a doubt be extremely dry and boring to you. You might want to have a coffee or soda to keep you awake and get you through those mega sleepers.You might want to consider studying in the college library or even the public library, I found they were the quietest places on campus.Watch every episode of EEVBlog! I wish Dave were around when I went to college. He makes electronics interesting and fun, not just hard work.Hope this helps,JAddendum:TOP TEN THINGS ENGINEERING SCHOOL DIDN'T TEACH YOU10. There are at least 10 types of capacitors.9. Theory tells you how a circuit works, not why it does not work.8. Not everything works according to the specs in the databook.7. Anything practical you learn will be obsolete before you use it, except the complex math, which you will never use.6. Always try to fix the hardware with software.5. Engineering is like having an 8 a.m. class and a late afternoon lab every day for the rest of your life.4. Overtime pay? What overtime pay?3. Managers, not engineers, rule the world.2. If you like junk food, caffeine and all-nighters, go into software.1. Dilbert is not a comic strip, it's a documentary.Lastly,A set of car battery cables walk into a bar. The battery cables ask the bartender,"Do you serve battery cables here?"and the bartender replies,"We sure do. Just don't start anything."

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 19, 2010, 02:46:37 am
content: Quote from: Veramacor on February 19, 2010, 01:13:56 amLOL!Spot on!Dave.

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 20, 2010, 04:51:02 pm
content: and once your in you nice engineering job or going into it bear in mind you have another option if you take a slightly broader view: quality control - if you like designing don't go there, from the little I know of my own quality job most people that are good in quality are quite good in the particular field but are just bogged down with paperwork and at best testing stuff, no trouble shooting and no designing
Owned by HP's marketing Dept. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: TheDirty
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 18, 2010, 03:24:08 am
content: This is just an amusing thing I found recently and I think this relates to one of Dave's vblogs about interface design.I've owned this HP1012 laser for about 5 years now. I've used it a lot for Toner Transfer PCB's and general printing and it's worked pretty well for a cheap Laser. I've used the buttons on the top for their intended uses; green is the Go button, red is the stop/cancel button (I actually just checked the printers manual to verify what these buttons are called).I had a problem with the printer recently, so I opened it up to find that both of these buttons are actually only one button. It doesn't matter which button you press it only has one physical switch. You can see the pics. They both go to a single plastic actuator that presses one button on the controller PCB. It doesn't do any partial pressure switching, the button is just a simple momentary contact.I guess marketing decided that it would look much more feature rich with two function buttons on the top and possibly confuse people less, but now I feel like an idiot for all those times I made sure I was hitting the correct button.Side note, but why is the 198KB attachment limit per post rather than per individual attachment? Pics are hosted on my home server now, so if they are slow, it's because I'm using the line for other things. *cough* *cough*

author: DJPhil
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 18, 2010, 04:39:33 am
content: This made me smile.I relate to stuff like this as though it were art. It's like a sign that warns you not to hit your head on the sign., and. Admittedly it doesn't have it's roots in marketing, but there's something appealing about it's pointlessness.I will build one some day, and place it prominently in my home.

author: Ferroto
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2010, 08:15:53 pm
content: Quote from: DJPhil on February 18, 2010, 04:39:33 amThat's like me trying to get out of bed in the morning

author: XynxNet
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2010, 08:55:12 pm
content: Clearly a "Mom"-function."Yes... press the red button to abort printig 100 copies....red for stop vs. green for go....like the traffic lights, mom..."
>>>Help on equipment purchasing (soldering iron and multimeter) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mrpsychotic
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2010, 05:41:16 am
content: My birthday is coming up soon and I am looking for a new multimeter and a new soldering iron.The ones I have found so far are listed below:http://www.amazon.com/Aoyue-937-Digital-Soldering-Station/dp/B000I30QBW/An Aoyue soldering stationandhttp://www.amazon.com/Mastech-Manual-Digital-Multimeter-MS8268/dp/B000JQ4O2U/A Mastech multimeterThe Catch:The price ceiling for each item is $50. Hopefully you guys can help me to find better ones if there are any!P.S. Both units are meant to be my primary device. I want a solder "station" as apposed to an iron.

author: DJPhil
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2010, 06:53:55 pm
content: I understand your trouble, I was recently looking for the same thing with the same limits.In all the research I did on meters I never checked into Mastech, so I can't really say if that's a deal. In my case,I went for a good meterand put the soldering iron off til later.The Aoyue irons seem to get good reviews, and I believe they are part exchangeable for Hakko. If you're determined to get both items, consider picking up the936 model instead. It's essentially the same thing running at 35W instead of 45W, and no extra features like auto shut off. For a slightly more advanced look at the guts of temp controlled soldering irons,see Xani's posts in this thread.Honestly, when you're looking for deals as cheap as this, you're at the limit of value. It becomes easier to save up $30-$50 and get 'good item' x 2 than find two sub $50 deals.
Fluke 83 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Auggie
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 18, 2010, 06:59:56 am
content: I have came upon a used 100% tested and calibrated fluke 83 for $130. is this a good deal?

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 18, 2010, 12:05:33 pm
content: I assume you mean US$Yeah, it's reasonable, although it's possible to get an 87 for the same or less than that on ebay if you are patient. Albeit, most likely not 100% tested and calibrated for that price.I've personally scored a Fluke 87 in the past for under US$100 on ebay.Dave.
Arrgghhhhh BAD Manufacturing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 15, 2010, 09:37:54 am
content: Hi all,A customer bought a Lumatek digital 250W HPS ballast (these are used instead of magnetic ones for lighting)It did not come with an output lead, so I was asked to convert it to an Au round earthed pin socket. I opened it up expecting to see a PCB terminal block, or crimp pins soldered into the PCB, Not the mess I foundThis is brand new.I was going to look at reverse engineering it, but I can not with this messI did notice a vertical PCB in the middle of the main power board, so it seems it has a custom moduleI have looked for schematic on the net and not come accross any for MH or HPS globesExcuse the image quality, it was done with the camera phone

author: DJPhil
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 15, 2010, 04:40:23 pm
content: That's a lot of goo, I wonder if they're trying to make double sure it'll last through it's warranty at 100%RH.I've only dealt with these sorts of ballast once, but I think they might have specific output requirements.I foundthis writeup from ST, will this help you any?
Hakko FX888 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cksa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2010, 01:43:26 am
content: I was thinking of grabbing this iron off farnell.http://au.farnell.com/hakko/fx-888/soldering-station-fx-888/dp/171902101Is it any good for the price? I've used the 936's extensively and they are alright irons, but I dont know if there are better options out there (as a student on a tight budget)?

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 11, 2010, 02:11:41 am
content: No idea, but you can get a Hakko 936 for under $100 on ebay:http://cgi.ebay.com.au/HAKKO-936-ESD-SAFE-iron-Soldering-Station-220V-10-tips_W0QQitemZ280458499631QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item414ca1162fProbably fake tips, but the iron looks genuine.Dave.
Any experience with alibaba / aliexpress ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: madworm
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2010, 05:02:55 pm
content: I need to purchase some SMD RGB LEDs, about 1k plus or minus. Ebay doesn't seem to have what I want, too expensive per piece. I think I've found what I want on aliexpress, but I'm not sure what to think of it.Is this place any good ?

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 06, 2010, 08:24:39 am
content: Avoid alibaba unless you know how to smell a scam and deal with wholesalers.

author: joelby
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2010, 01:01:49 pm
content: I bought a book of inductors from Aliexpress and was very happy with the service from the company I dealt with. I haven't actually tried using any of them yet, but they look very nice in the folder they came in, and were quite cheap.