hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
How much to ask - ZYGO PTI interferometer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: daqq
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2017, 04:19:06 pm
content: Hi guys,I've obtained a ZYGO interferometer, type PTI, built in 1987. It's a fairly old machine, but the laser works. There's also a CCD camera inside, but I have not connected to it yet. Essentially, I can't guarantee any parameters. The optics seem to be in working order. There are also some accessories (piezo power supply, transmission lenses kinda like reference devices as far as I understand, misc.). Basically, it's either for someone who'd hack it into something fun (use the optics as something fun, nanometer measurement thingamajig, that sort of thing) or someone looking for spare parts for their device.Now, I wanted to ask an estimate as to how much I could ask for it? It's completely out of my area of expertise, so, while it's a very nice device, and I'd love to play with it a bit more, it's wasted on me.See the photos:https://goo.gl/photos/apraB3ttie6ujqEw6The device is solidly built, they knew what they were doingThe thing ways a lot.Best regards,David

author: daqq
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 22, 2017, 08:33:51 am
content: I've uploaded some photos of the insides.

author: Philtron
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 28, 2019, 11:01:12 am
content: Unfortunately the link does not work. But usually the old PTIs from the 80ies have no PMR eg no phase shifting option. Even if the Laser is lit, it can be unstable with changing phase. Decoherence would ruin your fringes.If there is a CCD Camera in it, the Vidican has been replaced. You should have a manual shutter control now.The optical alignment of the system is a nightmare and requires special tooling. First thing to check are the mecanical stops of the Levers that swich aperture and align mode. They wear out first.You can clean the optics inside with dry cloth but be aware not to touch the quaterwaveplate in front of the big beamsplitter. It can kill your system!The value is between €100 for dameged PTI02 Systems and 4-8K€ for working Instruments in shmick condition (crisp, clean image and good focus).Usually the Zygo Reference Spheres have more value if in good condition. Reference Flats are between 1K and 2K (4ich)
RS solder - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Robonz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 24, 2019, 05:23:06 am
content: This might be a good topic for a rant. It really is pathetic. Radio Spares RS New Zealand will not sell leaded solder to my company because it is classed as "prohibited goods" they say I need to make a registration just to purchase a roll of solder!I have provided them links showing we are a legitimate business in New Zealand. I also sent them a copy of my electrical certification.Here is their last response which is absolute bullsh!t. Anyway I just went down to Jaycar and bought a roll after 10 emails of pathetic ness.I spoke to you late last week in regards to the solder line on the order. I have confirmed the following with our internal UK & AUS compliance teams. I am afraid the only way we can supply it to you is that if your account becomes a business type. The explanation I’ve given below was from our internal teams, the Hazardous Chemicals Compliance Manager, and as he stated, if we were to make an exemption of lifting the exclusion, there’s a big risk of letting orders from the general public around the world getting process which will result in our non-compliance.Sonny FaizRS Customer Care Executive

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 24, 2019, 08:39:45 pm
content: Defpom had the same problem."Non-compliance" to which law, and when was it introduced I wonder.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 26, 2019, 09:22:00 pm
content: It's called "REACH". I guess that as a UK-headquartered company, RS doesn't want to risk becoming noncompliant.

author: SteveyG
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 01, 2019, 01:45:48 pm
content: Yep, it's pretty common. REACH prohibits the sale of lead solder to the general public. Only professionals may buy it - it's up to a seller to determine the best method to achieve compliance
Buyer beware: Negative voltage DC-DC buck converter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JBourke
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2019, 07:57:47 pm
content: Hi all,A word of warning if you are looking for such a converter. I bought a couple of these:https://www.ebay.com/itm/Negative-Voltage-DC-DC-ADC-DAC-LCD-Boost-Buck-Converter-Module-Durable/202665083535?_trkparms=ispr%3D1&hash=item2f2fc7c28f:m:mXzXpEljar75KEQKAXvFvAg&enc=AQADAAACEKX%2FKt4E1xf3SDqEdBclaYbLJQZIjQ3PC5SdXJ%2BUfKVdJfigMK4rkzRFSuwwGE3h6H4F%2Fwv47TB95hwYxIEWYVKqL%2FaISeGDEVzfOr3b%2FOtGoQXUna39xX8Qz8u53mCwcBiDQGGYECZqLrFpBrjXXvuQw3KapD333J8SxSdAa9FJc5FgFYQ2k0tHFiMac5y9IW9h18Yhw2MHUbRlHAjw6SGmI3jo%2BaSOnlgVq%2BfDQSgUWm9%2FtlAiBUVLYe52t9g42oCRlcyAFqQpqUlcnOuSKrfoeDBt1oro%2FWKFvN5j40V4lPzgEhYfFVOGIJUMtWsiHQHB77Btwomyq9LETfPytZNIZGTP1tli5833mj%2BDu4u6qmoKwMCP7hbK8%2Fq%2FAkyvexaslDY6L8Erawo7qxsYBfMQLfLqI98mLsrwk%2Fhcos9N8tQOhW1MiOhhJBCRItmu33JAK0yWe8Ll%2F%2BsdYugYZi47%2BSLdeWl1OEi3iPaqjIXgVBoYaOxAulWrhypFvQYWfcj3ed3Dk1VJD0qvrjrTGBlp%2FHdpDWrho36FJDlcj6uzhKxBGq3GRK%2BQ6Ev438Ks6VyIz06Bg%2Fp0fLtk7ipP2lD5TNgqqD4SjQ8tlLBT%2F9k2P9rcma22I0pkR9Wdp%2B%2FadgyH4Jl%2Bt3WuAQYoZxZrZyYtE6ikI5YS7gKQSlCKo0nqAEpu9RQLM6WtLzCrhonA0Q%3D%3D&checksum=202665083535ca3e2e8fde2f47ed98a18655199132b6I opted for the -5V version (they come in different flavours). Both of them only output -2.14V and after further testing and looking at the datasheet for the controller (MC34063A) I noticed the R1/R2 resistor divider using the wrong resistance values. By changing R2 for a 25-turn pot I could get the required -5V. Given I had a couple with the same fault there must be more around.Cheers,John
PACE HS-150: User Manual - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: shuvodutta
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2019, 09:01:15 pm
content: Hi,I've recently acquired a PACE HotSpot HS-150 P.C.B. Pre-Heater. I could not locate it's User Manual anywhere (even PACE doesnotlist this Equipment anymore on their website. I've sent email to PACE Customer Support requesting for the Manual but yet to receive any reply from them.).It'll be great if someone can point me to right direction for getting the Manual. (The Unit works perfectly fine though.)
home automation compatible wired smoke detector? looking for products - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: leif
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 21, 2019, 06:16:01 pm
content: Hi,I wan't to upgrade my home automation setup with some smoke detector nodes. The offline ones with 9V battery fail usually when we are on vacation...What I'm looking for is a smoke detector with this attributes:runs from 12Vis wired, no 433 MHz stuffhas a build in audible alarmhas an alarm outputhas an alarminputis available (preferable in China or Europe) and affordable < 20 USDhas acceptable build qualityI want to feed the alarm of one sensor to all other sensors so they start the audible alarm as well. The "bus"-signal should be able to be sensed/simulated without too much effort.Any product recommendations?ThanksLeif

author: sokoloff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2019, 09:27:47 pm
content: For a life safety system like smoke detectors, I'd be inclined to buy off the shelf, not modify, and be reluctant to even interface with.The good news is that interconnected smoke alarms are readily available in the market and quite cheap (~$10/unit in small quantities), provided you're willing to go to mains power rather than 12VDC power. Typical install is a 3-wire install, two wires for AC  power, one wire for interconnect [so they all sound when one alarms], and many have a local battery backup.I would be comfortable buying any brand-name product off the shelf for this. I happened to find this listing first, but there are dozens, so find one that works for your area:https://www.homedepot.com/p/Kidde-FireX-Hardwire-Smoke-Detector-with-9V-Battery-Backup-Ionization-Sensor-and-2-button-test-hush-6-pack-21005927/100655553?

author: floobydust
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2019, 04:15:26 am
content: You can use pick off a mains smoke alarm signal using the (third wire) Interconnect Signal, for home automation or alarm system tie-in.There is a safety risk in that you're not supposed to connect things to smoke detectors that are not safety-agency approved, to prevent the gizmo from disabling it. Careful construction techniques and testing are a must.A smoke alarm interconnect signal is a CMOS I/O pin, typically a weak 9VDC signal as an OR'd bus so that any smoke detector on it can trigger or monitor all.It has around a 3V trigger threshold and output is around 7V at 4-7.5mA depending on the manufacturer. The fanouts are usually ridiculous, nobody would connect 100 smoke detectors on one interconnect bus. CO alarms pulse the line.I find you can safely take ~1-2mA to drive a sensitive optoisolator and then connect this to the home alarm system or monitoring.Since the smoke detector is mains powered, the output common is AC mains neutral. So you treat all smoke detector wiring as hazardous live, you must not connect anything directly to them. This optoisolator also works on dual-power (mains and 9V battery) powered smoke detectors.Just as important in an automation/alarm system is low temperature (freezing) alert if the furnace conks out during winter, and a water/flood sensor somewhere in the basement.
Acoustic brand G10, G20 guitar amplifiers - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: alsetalokin4017
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2019, 11:50:45 pm
content: These are small solidstate practice amps. The G10 is rated at 10 watts output and has an 8 ohm, 8 inch diameter speaker. The G20 is rated at 20 watts and has a 6 ohm, 10 inch speaker. I have one of each on my bench at the moment. There is nothing at all wrong with them but I am curious: they both appear to have the exact same circuit board, which is populated with 7 each TL072CP opamps and one 5-pin amplifier chip that is unmarked, on a heatsink. I suppose this amp chip could be different between the two units but since it is unmarked I can't tell. As far as I can see all the other components are the same between the two boards. The boards are silkscreened "RG15 XD01 V1.7 PCB" and have all thru-hole components, no surface mount that I can see. The quality of the electronics work and the cabinetry is outstanding, actually surprisingly fine for these low-end products.Is simply dropping the load impedance from 8 ohms to 6 ohms sufficient to allow double the rated power output? Or is it likely that the amp chips are different but require exactly the same peripheral circuitry?

author: Andy Watson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 22, 2019, 12:27:12 am
content: Do they have the same power supply ?
Pace might need to remove its Made in USA badge - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bleckers
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2019, 12:11:12 pm
content: Just looking at the new ARM-EVAC 150 fume extraction system and noticed something odd. The LCD/Remote has the typical look and chintzy feel of most Chinese designed hardware:-https://www.paceworldwide.com/products/fume-extraction-systems-and-accessories/fume-extraction-systems/arm-evac-150-fume-extractor-https://www.amazon.com/PACE-Arm-Evac-150-Extractor-SteadyFlex/dp/B07QF3KMFY- better imagesJust doing a little digging it looks like it is being made in China by your typical re-badging suppliers:-https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Caster-Equipped-KS-1002-Portable-Smoke_60651083771.html?spm=a2700.icbuShop.41413.17.66012a69eIj4Ym-https://kingsom.en.alibaba.com/product/60649017936-804856669/Soldering_Smoke_Absorber_KS_1002_Portable_Welding_Fume_Extractor.html?spm=a2700.icbuShop.41413.19.66012a69eIj4Ym-https://kingsom.en.alibaba.com/productgrouplist-804856669/For_Soldering_Smoke_Absorber.html?spm=a2700.details.pronpeci14.2.5fa21576JC4WxeGoing deeper, the sales rep in this video is a bit reluctant to announce that it's not made by Pace, but made under licence for Pace:So just a warning, this unit is probably not.What gives Pace?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2019, 11:08:14 pm
content: Well spotted. Was going to say, it doesn't matter since they didn't specify "Made in USA" on the product page, but then they have that logo implying all parts on their site are.On the plus side maybe that means you can buy generic filters for a lower price.Apparently its good for nail salons too: "3, Mainly for hair salon, beauty salon, nail salon, manual soldering, solder pot."

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 18, 2019, 04:11:45 am
content: Nicely spotted.That's looks like a pretty good price on AliexpressI've been looking for one so might have to pick one up. I must be decent is Pace a rebadging it.EDIT: Just noticed the postage

author: bleckers
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2019, 04:56:48 am
content: Quote from: thm_w on June 17, 2019, 11:08:14 pmThey are slightly different dimensions, so filters might not be interchangeable. Pace looks to be using the same design with their own chassis specifications in this instance (probably to prevent you from sourcing cheaper filters), unless there are other models out there that aren't coming up in the search (the terminology seems to be "smoke absorber", rather than fume extractor).It was more that there's the logo on their footer on every page that implies everything is proudly made in the <DAVE VOICE>Yew-nighted steats awv ahhh-mericah</DAVE VOICE>.
Tweezer degausser for the lazy - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: rounin
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2019, 10:21:39 pm
content: So my favorite tweezers got magnetized somehow, which is rather annoying. Commercial degaussers on amazon seems to be either really dodgy 10$ mains powered ones that look like they will catch fire, or 100$ ones that look identical to the 10$ ones.So, I decided a total overkill solution was needed.Got a 24V 200N electromagnethttps://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JL4QNVD/And a 13A H bridge (Cytron MD13S)https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M4PXZFZand PWM'd the dir pin @ 100Hz with my function generator.Works great, degausses on one or two passes, only draws 5W and doesn't look like it'll electrocute me. I was worried that I would need a lot more power then this, but the tweezers were barely magnetic. A lot of the dodgy ones said things like "only run for 10s per minute" implying they drew many amps and got rather hot.Maybe it is a amps vs amp-turns tradeoff. This magnet has a lot of turns rather than a lot of amps...

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2019, 11:01:01 pm
content: Rating: Input Voltage: DC 24V Power Consumption: 3W Peak Force 100N Suction: 10kg;So you are running it slightly over, but shouldn't get too hot.Nice solution. And that is not just an electromagnet, it says "suction magnet" so maybe it can be used for other purposes...

author: Hydron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2019, 09:49:59 pm
content: Probably could also run it off 24VAC transformer and either slowly move the degausee away from the magnet, or hook up the transformer mains input to a variac and ramp it down.

author: coppercone2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2019, 03:16:25 am
content: can you slap a hard drive magnet on a drill to be even lazier?

author: rounin
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2019, 11:11:20 pm
content: Hmm. I suppose it would just stick to a steel drill bit, don't even need anything special to mount it.
nozzle size - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: HB9EVI
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 13, 2019, 06:12:31 am
content: so I'm looking for the right nozzle to de/solder a 208-pin QFP; I just got a 28x28 nozzle which turned out to have a too wide spacing likely going to cause tombstoning of all the surrounding caps.

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 13, 2019, 07:17:11 am
content: And your question is?If you gave the make and model of the hot air tool you are using, the dimensions of the QFP and the distance to the nearest of the surrounding caps you'd probably get a more useful response.Toombstoning isn't the end of the world - just measure the offending cap with a cap meter in case you damage it and need to replace it, desolder it and refit it correctly.

author: martin1454
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 13, 2019, 07:30:03 am
content: Tombstoning is cause you are heating to much to wide, so either you have to turn down the temperature or use a smaller nozzle.Do you use a underheater for soldering? If so, try to reduce the airflow/temperature a little bit on you hot air station

author: HB9EVI
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 13, 2019, 08:03:22 pm
content: sorry for not being precise enough; so far: nothing happened yet; the nozzle I got seems to be for QFP 32x32 - this is actually the width between the slots, but it's declared as 28x28the rework station is a Xytronic LF-852D-ESD; I got confused; but when studying their website only the A1129B matchesseems to be clear now, thanks anyway...

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 14, 2019, 12:22:44 am
content: You are aware that QFP packages come in different pin pitches and therefore different sizes for the same pin count? You still haven't told us the 208 pin QFP package size. I assume the nozzle sizes above are in mm.According to their website A1129B should measure 29mm between the inside edges of the slots:http://www.xytronic-usa.com/shop/category.aspx?catid=29
BMS connecting up - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: najrao
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 08:36:27 am
content: Would there be anyrequiredorder in wiring up a 3 or more S Li ion BMS to the already series connected battery? I refer to the + and -,andthe taps meant for individual cell monitoring.If this is already answered earlier, I beg forgiveness. Thanks.
500W+ Offline offtheshelf SMPS's witrhout fans (240VAC) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ocset
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2019, 05:37:51 pm
content: HiWe would like to see examples of offtheshelf SMPS's of 500W up to 1kW that have no fan cooling, to look at the sizings.By "no fan", we mean no fan inbuilt into them, and no fan meant to be mounted externally of them.Also they must not be water cooled.Do you know of any?We cant find any on the web

author: mariush
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2019, 06:03:22 pm
content: Too lazy to search?1.https://www.digikey.com/short/pm5q4j2.https://www.digikey.com/short/pm5q4d3. atx power supplieslinkA lot of platinum / titanium atx power supplies rated for 750w or more will generally work passively up to around 4-500 watts.My gold efficiency Seasonic X-650 (650w) can function passively up to 170w.. nowadays platinum and titanium are way more efficient

author: ocset
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2019, 07:17:36 pm
content: Thanks,Thanks, i notice digikey doesnt allow you to search for IP66 (and above) rated power supplies of power 500w-1kw.I wish i could find these.Any ideas?

author: ebastler
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2019, 07:01:51 am
content: No personal experience, but I can Google e.g. "ip66 power supply 500w" and find stuff like this:https://absopulse.com/ip66-rated-power-solutions/https://www.meanwell.com/productPdf.aspx?i=473Do these fit the bill?

author: beanflying
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2019, 07:59:46 am
content: And yet another seemingly random Power Supply topic from TreezNo mention of the random 'friend' this time or LED lighting (so far)Seriously if and or others are looking to setup your own company or have them built to your spec and you are going to USE the members of this forum to do it then don't mind us if we let other know of your recent history of topics.Seriously if you are a startup then do YOUR OWN RESEARCH or at least have a clue before you go broke before you start!Quote from: treez on April 19, 2019, 12:17:05 pmQuote from: treez on April 19, 2019, 10:58:52 amQuote from: treez on April 06, 2019, 06:11:06 pmQuote from: treez on April 08, 2019, 07:17:42 am

author: ocset
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2019, 05:35:46 am
content: Thanks...i mst admit i used to want that...but know now that its too expensive to set up.The underwriting is too costly.So i am just knowledge hunting.BTW, my free SMPS course for all is here..https://drive.google.com/open?id=1cmk81KxXA7-EliHHWr8ZimpEp7HCMIcY..help yourselfi always try and give back at least one post for every post that i ask.ie, answer other peoples querys.
858D Hot Air Station and Asbestos Concern - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: atw58
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 24, 2019, 03:00:19 am
content: I bought just the handle of the hot air station to match my own controller. When it was open I found a yellow fibrous thin insulating sleeve between the heating element and tube. There was some fibre strands along the edges of the sheet. Then when it was first turned on quite a bit of dust was blown out then smoke from the element. The insulation sheet looked a lot like the asbestos Bunsen burner mat in chemistry class eons ago.Knowing China's record of dangerous materials, has anyone verified this isn't asbestos. A search of "asbestos" in the forum shows nothing related to this hot air handle.

author: ironsniper1
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 06:08:12 pm
content: i know this thread is a little old but can anyone confirm or deny what the op is saying? i have the same unit and want to be sure it and me are safe

author: bob91343
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 06:24:10 pm
content: I wouldn't worry. The way asbestos becomes unsafe is when it is handled. It tends to flake apart and the dust can mess up your lungs.Should you need to disassemble the unit, wear a face mask and eye protection and work in a well ventilated area.

author: floobydust
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 07:32:55 pm
content: 858D wand heating element is ceramic or mica sheet, and the insulator for the tube/sleeve is mica paper. It's the same construction as hairdryers, which no longer use asbestos.Nothing yellow. Post pics.
HP-85 tape drive lamp replacement - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MBY
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 06, 2019, 06:21:34 pm
content: I have a HP-85 and I successfully repaired the capstan in the tape drive. It worked for a while but suddenly stopped working with the error "STALL" on all tape command. After a bit of troubleshooting I discovered that the lamp in the end-of-tape detection circuit has broken. Physically, the lead is broken at the glass, probably due to vibration. This lamp is in series with the lamp for the position encoder disk.The lamps seems only to be on during tape operation, and since tape operation immediately stops due to error, I haven't managed to measure the lamp voltage. The lamp for the encoder wheel still works, and it starts to glow at about 1-2 volts. But I have no good idea if the lamp circuit is 12 volts (two 6 volt lamps in series) or 5 volts. I don't know the polarity either, so I don't know if it is worth it to replace with LEDs. I don't know a suitable color as the lamp is lamps for a reason (otherwise the designers probably would have chosen LEDs instead).Do anyone know the specs of these lamps, the voltage or has heard about any modification or repair? Instructions to replace the capstan is easy to come by, but I haven't found anything about the lamps...

author: MBY
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2019, 01:35:23 pm
content: Ok, I've solved it. So, for future reference:Many hours invested in debugging a circuit containing two lamps and a transistor!It had probably taken the age of the universe if it was three lamps in series...Anyhow, the driving voltage is 12V and the lamps thus are 6V lamps. The current is about 70 mA. I replaced both with white LEDs but could not get it to work, so I ended up with a circuit with one LED and one lamp and resistors parallel with the LED and its series resistor in order to keep the current at 70 mA (it ended up being 60 mA, but it works) for the lamp and about 5 mA for the LED. First after many hours I discovered that the motor was stuck via its encoder disk. So the two-LED circuit probably should work fine and I switched back to the LED-lamp combo for nothing.So, if anyone else happens to have a problem with the lamp circuit in the tape drive, the lamps are in series, a replacement lamp should glow and draw ~70 mA at 6 volt. And LEDs probably works just fine.
proper selection of grease for gears? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: coppercone2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 05, 2019, 06:06:06 am
content: With two gears that interface each other, what criterion are there for selection of optimal grease?Like, surface finish, operating temperature, operating pressure (based on precision of gear geometry and contact area during rotation), rotational speed (relates to kinematic viscosity of grease?), gear material?Is there really a optimal grease or do you need to make a decision based on some other design choice?

author: mgraves235
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 07, 2019, 03:09:43 am
content: In my experience, there is no single "optimal grease" for every application. everything thing you mentioned is a factor that needs to be considered. Gear material being primary, IMOin my career i've worked with and had lots of training and experience with drive mechanisms with various type of plastic gears. nylon gears, in most uses, need to extra lubrication, where as Pet or PETE gears will eat themselves in short order if run dry. plastics on the more brittle end will shed particles as it wears and will mix with lube to make an abrasive paste that will cause premature gear failure.sintered bronze gears only need slight lubrication, if any, but there generally used in service replaceable environments, and have a rated cycle life.hardened steel gears are usually ok with a conventional hypoid lube, but the method in how they mesh becomes a factor, i.e. a ring and pinion setup requires a different lubrication method than vertical drive gears.long story short, you are correct in that there are many variable in determine what lube to use in which scenario, and i'm certainly not the authorty to list all the conditions and uses. i remember in machinists school, in one of our textbooks it had a chapter devoted to that subject, i would suggest heading to your library, or looking around online for a similar updated text, and it will educate you far more than someone here can, in a single post.
Crimping 3 or 4 wires together - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ezalys
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 04, 2019, 01:57:04 pm
content: Hey all,I’m looking for the most reliable, milspec, aerospace, NASA approved way to join 3-5 stranded 24 AWG wires together where there’s likely to be a lot of vibration. I understand that solder has a nasty habit of wicking up the strands, and the point at which the unwetted wire meets the wetted wire can be brittle and unreliable. I also understand that solder isn’t a great mechanical joint. I’m therefore looking for a good crimp I can use to splice several wires together. Any recommendations? Also, if I’m wrong about solder joint reliability, I’d be interested too!Thanks!

author: Neilm
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 04, 2019, 06:37:46 pm
content: Given the vibration requirements in that sort of application, I doubt you will find a single crimp that could go that. I have seen crimps that look like a Y and will join three wires together. You could use several of them if you can find one that will crimp the metal wire and hold the insulation as a support as well.

author: No.Mad
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 04, 2019, 07:29:49 pm
content: Hi ezalys,answer for your question is in IPC 620A standard. It covers all topics regarding harness making, looming, splicing and crimping.What is my favourite is soldered splice: simply strip 10 - 12mm of a wire insulation, place it together tightly but don't twist them. To hold them together you should use single strand copper wire to make a braid like in the picture here:https://cdn.instructables.com/FN1/KYZT/JNIRDS9X/FN1KYZTJNIRDS9X.LARGE.jpg?auto=webp&width=599&crop=3:2Apply flux, solder wires and then clean with with proper solvent. After that go for final touch - give it some snugly and warm heatshrinkI'm attaching also two pages from IPC standard so you could have a better understanding of criteria. Have fun and practice bruv!Regards

author: timelessbeing
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 04, 2019, 07:43:16 pm
content: Quote from: ezalys on June 04, 2019, 01:57:04 pmAre you launching a satellite?

author: Kjelt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 04, 2019, 07:54:41 pm
content: Download NASA-STD-8739.4A – 2016-06-30Page 70 and further.Some of those solutions need special ferrules $0,30 a piece but min order 1000 pcs or such madness.Just use a standard copper tinned Ferule that matches the best of your need and use that.

author: coppercone2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 05, 2019, 05:35:53 am
content: we need to cut costs for the non existing company for no reason at alljust give them a twist and wrap it in electrical tape!1!1
Cheap Chinese alarm - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Martini
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 23, 2019, 12:05:15 pm
content: I bought this alarm:https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32959825719.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.52fb4c4dhuWXJHI really like the fact the fob is a mechanical key that can be cut to your bikeInside, it looks like this:And it's probably the grand daughter of this alarm:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/motorcycle-alarm-teardown-(or-why-you-don_t-want-to-buy-a-cheap-alarm)/Of course, I like to tinker with things so a few questions came up. Any chance someone is familiar with them? I'm mostly wondering if the remote uses a rolling code and if the MCU can be programmed (the alarm chirps when armed and disarmed and that's very loud, I'd like to prevent that)

author: Martini
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2019, 09:25:24 pm
content: Any idea on where I could find information on these?

author: Wilksey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2019, 09:52:20 pm
content: I've seen and had a few of the "cheap Chinese" alarms, I doubt very much if it would have a rolling code, and it might be a Holtek type chip which is an RF decoder, perhaps some better pictures might help people determine.Cheers
Mantis microscope friction clamp - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: nigeb123
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 31, 2019, 05:03:51 pm
content: I managed to pick up two Mantis (original) microscopes which were being thrown out as the business I work for is closing.One has no friction clamp lever, the other has one but no matter how hard I turn it, it doesn't have much effect. (Tried the lever on both, same problem). I suspect it's been dragged about with the clamp closed and caused some wear - but I can't figure out what to do about it. Anyone with any experience of this ?
The most rare DATRON: PGM2000 with RS-232 option - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DC1MC
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 12:00:50 pm
content: The year is 1984, the life is good, the world Datron England and Prema Germany were producing hi-precision and accuracy instruments with GPIB interfaces, but meanwhile in a nice little German village a company was creating and selling the world strangest EPROM gang programmer, PGM2000, this is the story of this strange device, the first programmer that I've seen that has NO RAM BUFFERbut does direct serial-to-EPROM and vice-versa transfers. It does have a LED multiplexer from ICL (talking about über-engineering).So I've got this guy in a non-working condition, looking very good on outside and inside, but seller says: "it does smell like burning, so I'm selling it as defective...", it even comes with a nice user manual (I've scanned it and used Abby online service to OCR it).So, as usual the culprit was a tant, thespawn, re-caped, reassembled and here it is working in his glorious LED light.Now even YOU can copy all the obsolete EPROMS of your TE like a real man, using a full 25PIN serial cable, not the sissies one without RTS/CTS, you can program your DATRON EPROMS with an original DATRON, don't delay, PM today, all offers considered, shipping 5EUR all of Germany and whatever cost to your country, all the extra coming from this project will be used to feed my cat (that is also my assistant).Also I have to say only good words about the Pearl branded desoldering station, I kind of expected to suck, and not in a vacuum way, but hey, it behaves EXCEPTIONALLY, all tants were out in less than 2min without any issues on the PCB.Link to the tool:eBay auction: #372486440404.Cheers,DC1MCSo yes, I'll also add a picture of the said cat

author: Enigma-man
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 09:12:46 pm
content: Nice looking unit. Over the years I have hoarded EPROMS from whatever. Why, I don't know.Probably waiting for "someday I might need one". That day hasn't come yet and likely never will, but I have the EPROMS.
ZD 915 desoldering station 220v to 120v conversion - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: niva
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 31, 2019, 02:45:32 pm
content: Hello! First post here.I am about to buy a ZD 915 desoldering station. The thing is that I could get one from France (to Canada) for much cheaper than any other places...But as you know we have 120v here in Canada.The person at the french company told me that they are often selling those stations to Canada and confirm that they "work". But don't have a precise idea on how to make them work.Did anyone have any experience converting a ZD915 to 120V?Merci beaucoup!Guillaume Simard
Getting Dave's shelving setup in the UK - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ziplock9000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2017, 02:50:19 pm
content: I want to get a shelving system similar to Daves, and I've been looking at B&Q's twinslot system. It looks great, it's cheap and can be picked up anyway. The major problem is that it has to be wall mounted without feet.Can anyone recommend a system in the UK I can use:- Cheap like B&Q's twin slot- Need no wall or front supportPS, Just the shelves behind the benches, not the benches themselves.

author: HwAoRrDk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2017, 04:11:59 pm
content: It's easy to find a large number of places selling that kind of shelving. Just search for "freestanding twin slot shelving". Another term to search for is "gondola" - although that specifically refers to the 'T' shaped uprights that you see forming two-sided isle shelving in stores, some places refer to the kind of uprights you're looking for as 'L' gondola uprights.

author: artag
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2017, 12:09:28 am
content: A lot of the DIY shed shelving is very weak. I wouldn't trust a nice selection of test equipment like Dave's on it. The good stuff is Dexion : very much stronger. Expensive, of course - but try auctions. You can often find ex-industrial stuff a lot cheaper.

author: CB
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 25, 2019, 10:48:15 pm
content: The tips about freestanding shelving mentioned in this thread (used in retail shops) has been a very useful to me. After having done a bit of research, I found that this type of shelving is quite flexible. Here's what my bench looks like with a freestanding shelf layout behind it. Notice that spaces between metal back panels allows for power cables to pass from instruments on upper shelves to the power distribution unit screwed into the perforation board. Also, the shelving is a bit wider (200 cm) than the bench (182 cm), and the shelves below the bench were selected to let the legs pass between them and the back panels. This shelving is not attached to the wall, but is very sturdy. It does not move at all. The shelves of this unit are each rated for 100 Kg (uniformly distributed). Shelves come in a wide variety of widths and depths. Anyone interested in this approach to shelving can check out the UK supplier I bought from, Richardsons (UK)https://www.richardsonsuk.co.uk/evolve-shop-shelving/c185.Note that the shelving fits together without any additional hardware. It requires no screws, bolts, or fasteners of any kind. Total cost of this particular configuration: £250
Inside a Hyundia (Yura) EV "Granny charger" EVSE - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 23, 2019, 02:24:39 pm
content: http://electricstuff.co.uk/evse/evse.html

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 23, 2019, 08:35:59 pm
content: QuoteFirst one might be OK if the charger in the car itself has its own undervoltage detection.Second one seems a bit odd, here there has to be an earth ground. So a Nissan charger will show a red light, but you can simply short earth to neutral to bypass this (if you wanted to charge from a gas generator for example).
Weller WHS 40D soldering iron settings / service menu - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Malvineous
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 08:32:23 am
content: I was impatient recently when I switched my Weller 40D iron on, and held the temperature adjustment button too soon. The display stuck on "°C" and intrigued, I pressed the other button (while still holding the first) and "H02" came up on the display.I haven't been able to get it to do anything else however, but it got me thinking - are there any sort of service menus or configuration options on this unit? I presume there would at least be a way of changing it from Celsius to Fahrenheit, but I'm just curious about what else might lurk in there (calibration perhaps?)The manual doesn't mention anything at all so I'm just wondering whether anyone else has one of these units and has done any experimentation.
Teardown of a Cheap Outdoor Light Sensor - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jonovid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 21, 2019, 07:30:30 am
content: BISS0001 datasheethttp://www.ladyada.net/media/sensors/BISS0001.pdfdoes anybody know a link for a datasheet for CO15P or is it C015P ?out-put switch 8pin ic ? I will assume the chip is under 400Ma and needs a reverse blocking diode to drive a relay coil.got two sensor units but distrust the wiring colors, so I needed to take a peek inside one, discovered no relay coil.Teardown of a Cheap Outdoor Light Sensorteardown of a Chinese made outdoor PIR passive infrared motion sensor , this is the 12 volt unit..as sold by e-bay & aliexpress. the electrical wiring colors is some-what odd.maybe potentially dangerous?also sold is a 220 volt unit, that I have not done a teardown on.if your interested here is my video and linksCheap Out-door Light Sensor
HSB8872-03 graphic lcd module Datasheet wanted - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: iMo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2019, 08:53:46 am
content: Searching after a datasheet for theHSB8872-03 ver1.0 module.It has got single Data, RD, WR, CS, LEDA, VCC, VSS(gnd) pins, the communication is through 1 data pin.The glass is from bottom. Blue, graphics, maybe 320x240 or 320x160 or less..Thanks.
Storage for soldering iron field kit - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: artag
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 18, 2019, 11:05:45 am
content: Submitted this to hackaday but maybe it's more interesting here.A cigar tube from ebay (this one cost about £6 and is made from thick, polished, welded stainless steel) is a good length to hold a TS100 soldering iron in a portable repair kit.You can put it away hot without removing the tip, or use it as a heat-proof rest while in use. This twin tube has room for solder, too. A spare tip will fit down the centre of the solder reel. The TS100-specific storage cases I've seen are more compact but require you to wait for the tip to cool and remove it. I leave the clamping screw loose but that still seems a fiddly solution.Cigar tubes with one, two or three-cigar shapes provide a choice of space. My toolkit also includes a length of silicone cable and an HP travel adapter offering both 20V at 65W to power the soldering iron and 5V USB for projects in a small and light unit. A USB power pack with a 12V output can also be used.Improvements might include a heat-resistant silicone lining to avoid rattling, and a similar setup based on the TS80 and USB3 power.https://drive.google.com/file/d/1F48V11BMtx--LpqLeQiHLFiTbLp2NKbl/view?usp=sharing
Greenwich Instruments stepper driver HELP? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cpposteve
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2019, 07:39:16 pm
content: Hi all,not sure if anyone will be able to help. ive bought a few of these new old stock greenwich GSM4 stepper driver boards. but have unfortunatly found out i require software for them to work via an rs232 to pc. the manual states what is needed to make this work via its commands. the manual is here;https://www.digchip.com/datasheets/parts/datasheet/2136/GSM4_PSU2-pdf.phpif anyone would be able to point me in the right direction to get this going or if somehow someone has a copy of the software i would be very greatful. i have messaged the company who still exist but they cant help.many thankssteve

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2019, 08:40:05 pm
content: bought? hopefully they were cheaper than free
Need recommendation for replacement for Weller FD21D liquid flux dispenser - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: rbm
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2019, 04:37:39 am
content: Hi,I'm fed up with this s**t Weller product. I've given it two really good tries and both times the bottle has failed in the same way. I'm asking for recommendations for a better more durable liquid flux dispenser for my bench.I regularly use this Weller FD21D dispenser with a 0.010" needle to dispense MG Chemicals 835 no-clean rosin flux on SMD boards for hand soldering. On the FD21D, the needle is fitted to a sealing washer both of which are captured by the bottle's conical lid (instead of using a luer lock or similar). The failure has always been the lid. It is highly stressed in the design and tends to split open because the plastic used by Weller is crap. Ultimately the washer does not seal and fluid leeks past the seal and out the cracked lid, spilling fluid all over the board instead of right where you want it.For any replacement, I'd like to keep the good features of this dispenser if possible- fine 0.010" needle for precise fluid dispensing on SMD pads- squeeze bottle instead of hypodermic syringe- easy to disassemble and clean parts in IPA solution and reassemble- good capacity with ability to store the fluid long termThanks in advance for your help.

author: 0culus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2019, 04:54:36 am
content: I got apair of theseat my local electronics supply joint. I don't know the size of the applicator needles, but perhaps they have other accessories for it. Seem to work rather well.

author: helius
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2019, 05:05:27 am
content: I have an Engineer ZC-71 flux dispenser that uses a 0.25mm steel needle, it looks similar to the Weller FD21. I have not had it fail yet, but I only began using it recently.

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2019, 01:23:11 am
content: Bottles fail. You turn them right side up, and the needle dries out and clogs. And they get gunked up at the top of the bottle where the flux dries out.I use disposable syringes. 100 to a box for like 20 bucks. I use a plastic needle, which I plug up with some cotton or what not, then cut the tip to the size I want for the job. Fill the syringes up a bunch at a time, cap them off with the black caps. Use them up and throw them out. I use 835, too.I just leave the syringe with the plastic tip on it, and it has never totally dried out or clogged that wasn't fixed in a few seconds with a squeeze. I suppose if you left it for months, maybe, but then you just toss it and grab the next syringe.Well, I left a syringe in a bag for over a year or three, and it turned black. It still worked, but I just tossed it.
AmScope SM-4BX-FRL, will ring light work on 240V mains?  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: thinkfat
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 25, 2019, 05:16:24 pm
content: Ahoi,So, after a lot of deliberating and head scratching I ordered said microscope from AmScope. Apparently the set includes a CCFL ring light, does any one know if it comes with an universal power brick or just one for Yankee mains?BR,MatthiasGesendet von meinem Nokia 6.1 mit Tapatalk

author: Thomas
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 27, 2019, 11:21:50 am
content: From the Amscope website:QuoteI guess theymightrealize you want 220V based on your address, but that can't be guaranteed.You might have to replace the bulb/ring with a 220V one. And then you will need to replace it when it dies again. And again. And so on.I don't know how long these things last, but I would get a LED ring. Oh, wait, Igota LED ring

author: thinkfat
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 27, 2019, 06:28:09 pm
content: Quote from: Thomas on April 27, 2019, 11:21:50 amThat might be quite true. I think I will order an LED ring just to be on the safe side. Thanks for the advice.Gesendet von meinem Nokia 6.1 mit Tapatalk

author: agehall
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2019, 12:10:28 pm
content: Get a LED-ring with adjustable power. I tweak the power quite a bit to avoid glares and to see better in different conditions.

author: thinkfat
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 04, 2019, 09:57:29 pm
content: Quote from: agehall on April 28, 2019, 12:10:28 pmThat's what I ended up doing. Now waiting for the microscope to arrive... Boy, the suspense!Gesendet von meinem Nokia 6.1 mit Tapatalk

author: thinkfat
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 09, 2019, 08:38:28 pm
content: aaand its here. which is good. the suspense was killing me.Of course the ring light is 110V (at least that what it reads on the case), though they added a plug adapter for European mains outlets to make it easier to blow it up. Tempting...The microscope seems good. I like it.
Sony NP-BX1 battery C terminal - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: wictor
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2019, 10:42:57 am
content: Hi!Newer Sony batteries like NP-BX1 have four terminals: c, t, + and -. + and - are obvious and T is used for temperature measurement. But does anyone know what is C terminal and how it is used?Wictor

author: macboy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2019, 05:03:46 pm
content: Probably communications. This is an "InfoLITHIUM" battery with built in protection circuitry that the camera and/or charger can access.