Author: voltlog

Excellent Build Quality Inside The UNI-T UDP3305S | Voltlog #479

If you’re an electronics enthusiast or professional, you understand the importance of having a reliable and high-quality power supply on your workbench. The UNI-T UDP3305S has been making waves in the industry, and after using it for a month, I can confidently say it’s my favorite bench power supply.

However, a thorough review wouldn’t be complete without a deep dive into its inner workings. In this blog post, I’ll share my findings from tearing down this impressive device. The teardown process revealed a level of build quality that exceeded my expectations. From the matte green FR4 PCB, which is a hallmark of high-end production lines, to the tidy wiring and locking connectors, every aspect screamed attention to detail.

The toroidal transformer, mounted on a solid bracket with rubber insulation, is a testament to the engineering prowess behind this power supply. One of the standout features is the modular design. The back IO panel, main body, and front panel are separate modules, making servicing and maintenance a breeze.

The power stage module, which houses the independent channels, is a marvel of engineering. It features current shunts, bridge rectifiers, MOSFETs for regulation, and relays for input voltage transformer tap selection. The front panel is where the real magic happens. It houses the brains of the operation – an STM32H750 microcontroller, a powerful Cortex-M7 with a floating-point unit and advanced peripherals.

Complementing this is a trio of high-precision DAC (DAC8562) and ADC (ADS1118) chips, ensuring accurate voltage and current regulation across all channels. Throughout the teardown, I was impressed by the attention to detail and the use of high-quality components. From the Fujicon and Macon capacitors to the Hongfa relays, every component has been carefully selected to deliver exceptional performance.

In conclusion, the UNI-T UDP3305S is not just a powerhouse on the outside; it’s a masterpiece of engineering on the inside as well. The build quality, modular design, and top-notch components make it a worthy investment for anyone seeking a reliable and precise bench power supply.

Is the UNI-T UDP3305S the BEST Programmable Power Supply? Find Out! | Voltlog #478

Are you tired of juggling multiple power supplies on your workbench? The UNI-T UDP3305S could be the solution you’ve been waiting for. This programmable DC power supply unit combines four independent channels into one sleek and powerful package, making your life easier and more productive. With three independently programmable outputs (two at 0-30V 5A and one at 0-6V 3A) and a fixed 5V 2A USB output, the UDP3305S offers a total combined power output of 348W.

Its 1mV/1mA resolution and low ripple voltage of less than 350uV (measured at 1MHz bandwidth) make it suitable for powering even the most sensitive analog circuits. One of the standout features of this unit is its ability to internally switch channels 1 and 2 to series or parallel mode, eliminating the need for external wiring and separate adjustments.

Need more than 30V? Switch to series mode for up to 60V at 5A. Need more current? Parallel mode delivers 30V at 10A. The 4.3-inch TFT display provides a clear and intuitive graphical user interface, allowing you to monitor and adjust settings with ease. The unit also offers advanced features like waveform viewing, programmable sequences, monitoring, triggering, and data logging.

With a robust build quality, rubber corner protection, and a carry handle, the UDP3305S is designed for the demanding workbench environment. Connectivity options include USB, Ethernet, RS232, and digital I/O, enabling remote control and integration into automated test setups. While the included Windows software could be more polished, the instrument itself excels in usability and performance.

Compared to alternatives from Rigol, Siglent, and others, the UNI-T UDP3305S offers more features at a lower cost, making it an attractive choice for professionals and hobbyists alike.

Raspberry Pi 5 on Steroids: The NVMe Upgrade | Voltlog #477

Are you looking to supercharge your Raspberry Pi 5’s performance? Look no further than upgrading to an NVMe SSD drive! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to configure and boot your Pi 5 from a blazing-fast Samsung MVME Drive. Forget the sluggish performance of traditional SD cards – an NVMe SSD will take your Pi 5 to new heights of speed and reliability.

While there are different tutorials out there, we’ll provide you with the most up-to-date method for March 2024, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience. We’ll be using the Raspberry Pi 5, along with the official cooling kit and power supply, the Geekworm P580 metal case, and the Geekworm X1002 PCIe shield.

These accessories, designed to work seamlessly together, will make the entire process a breeze. However, feel free to use alternative hardware, as the instructions provided should apply to most setups. The Raspberry Pi 5 is the first Pi to officially expose a PCIe interface, enabling a significant performance boost.

While not as fully-featured as desktop PCIe interfaces, the single PCIe 2.0 lane is still a game-changer. We’ll guide you through adapting the Pi 5’s flat flex connector to the M.2 form factor using the Geekworm X1002 shield, supporting various SSD sizes. One caveat to note is the current issue with Phison-based SSD controllers.

While progress is being made, for a plug-and-play solution, we recommend using a Samsung SSD or other reported-working drives. We understand the temptation of cheaper Phison-based options, but a little extra investment ensures a smooth sailing experience. Once the hardware is assembled, we’ll walk you through the software configuration, including updating your Pi OS, flashing the image to the NVMe drive, and setting the boot order to prioritize the PCIe drive.

We’ll even cover an experimental step to switch to PCIe Gen3 for an additional speed boost (though results may vary). By the end of this guide, you’ll have a Raspberry Pi 5 running at blistering speeds, perfect for demanding tasks or simply enjoying a snappier overall experience. We’ll share benchmark results, community comparisons, and tips for ensuring your setup runs optimally.

InTheMail | Voltlog #476

Gear up, electronics enthusiasts! In this installment of InTheMail, we’re diving deep into a treasure trove of tech goodies that are sure to elevate your workshop game. From cutting-edge ESP32-C3 development boards to sleek braided heat shrink tubing, we’ve got you covered. First up, we’re exploring the world of the ESP32-C3, a powerful microcontroller based on the RISC-V architecture.

We’ve got not one, but three dev boards to showcase, each with its unique features and form factors. Whether you need a compact solution or a board packed with extras like USB-C ports and status LEDs, we’ve got you covered. But that’s not all! We’re also taking a closer look at braided heat shrink cable sleeving, a professional-grade solution for your wiring projects.

While it comes with a few caveats, like a higher price tag and stiffer finish, the braided look is undeniably sleek and polished. Continuing our exploration, we stumble upon a rather intriguing (and slightly concerning) product – a pet positioning GPS locator with a built-in microphone. While its tracking capabilities are questionable, the ability to listen in on conversations raises some ethical concerns.

We’ll leave it up to you to decide how to utilize this technology responsibly. Moving on to more practical solutions, we’ve got our hands on a nifty hand wave sensor and a touch sensor designed for furniture integration. These clever devices allow you to control lighting and other low-voltage DC applications with a simple wave or touch, adding a touch of convenience and modernity to your projects.

And speaking of lighting, we’re diving into the world of LED tape controllers, specifically one powered by an ESP8266 module. While it may not be the ideal choice for driving analog LED tapes due to potential flickering issues, it’s a fantastic option for digital LED tapes, offering seamless integration with popular open-source firmware platforms like Tasmota, WLED, and ESPHome.

But wait, there’s more! We’re also exploring a budget-friendly Apple Watch charger clone and a unique stainless steel scrub cleaner for those who value a sparkling workshop (and cast iron pans!).

Designing An Automated PCB Test System | Voltlog #475

In this captivating project, Voltlog takes us on a journey to revolutionize the testing and programming process for their VoltLink boards. Tired of the repetitive and time-consuming manual approach, they set out to design a semi-automated test and programming fixture called VoltHub7. The VoltLink, a reliable USB-to-Serial adapter designed to solve the inconsistencies of cheap alternatives, is a crucial component in Voltlog’s electronics design work.

However, manually testing and flashing each board one by one proved tedious and error-prone, leading to the need for an automated solution. Enter the VoltHub7, a ingenious system that combines a custom-designed USB hub and a Raspberry Pi Zero 2W. At the heart of the design lies the Microchip USB2517, a configurable 7-port USB 2.0 Hi-Speed hub controller, carefully chosen for its capabilities and minimal external circuitry requirements.

Voltlog meticulously crafted the USB hub PCB, incorporating features like power distribution switches, status LEDs, and multiple power input options for flexibility. The integration of the Raspberry Pi Zero 2W directly onto the PCB, with its GPIO interfacing with the hub controller, streamlines the setup and enhances reliability.

But the true innovation lies in the use of pogo pins to interface with the Pi Zero’s test pads, eliminating the need for fiddly micro-USB cables and ensuring a robust connection. Voltlog’s attention to detail in the mechanical design, ensuring precise component alignment and fit, is a testament to their commitment to excellence.

The assembly process, complete with a black soldermask and yellow silkscreen for a visually striking result, culminated in a successful power-on and initialization of the hub and Pi Zero. Voltlog’s joy at witnessing the seamless integration of the components is palpable, inviting viewers to share in their excitement.

With the VoltHub7 up and running, Voltlog demonstrated its capability to connect and flash six VoltLink boards simultaneously, a task that would have been significantly more time-consuming with manual intervention. The future holds the promise of a custom test jig, further streamlining the process and eliminating the need for individual USB cables.

VESA Mount Arm For Rigol DHO800 Series | Voltlog #474

Elevate your workbench ergonomics with a simple yet ingenious solution – mounting your Rigol DHO800 oscilloscope on an articulated monitor arm. In this innovative setup, I’ll guide you through the process of maximizing your workspace while improving your workflow efficiency. The key to this hack lies in the Rigol DHO800’s standard VESA mount, allowing you to seamlessly integrate it with a monitor arm.

Imagine having your oscilloscope swing in and out of your work area effortlessly, freeing up valuable bench space for other tools and projects. No more awkward positioning or constant rearranging – just a clean, organized setup tailored to your needs. Choosing the right monitor arm is crucial. While high-end options with gas struts and multiple articulating points exist, a simple, spring-based arm like the Maclean MC-458 can be a cost-effective solution.

At just $30, it offers a weight range of up to 7kg, perfect for the lightweight Rigol DHO800 (approximately 1.5kg). If your oscilloscope is too light for the arm’s tension, a clever hack is to add artificial weight using wheel weights from a tire shop. Simply attach them to the VESA mount, and voilà – your oscilloscope will balance perfectly with the arm’s force.

Integrating the monitor arm into an aluminum profile workbench is a breeze, thanks to the standard channel spring nuts and M8 bolts. Adjust the height, angle, and rotation to suit your preferences, and enjoy a truly ergonomic viewing experience.

High Current Cigarette Lighter Connector Test | Voltlog #473

In the quest for reliable power accessories, Voltlog embarked on a comprehensive testing journey to evaluate the performance of various cigarette lighter connectors. These unassuming components play a pivotal role in powering our on-the-go devices, but cheap options from online marketplaces often fall short of their advertised current ratings, posing potential safety risks.

The lineup consisted of five connectors, ranging from budget-friendly AliExpress offerings to reputable brands from distributors like Digikey. Through a series of rigorous tests, each connector was subjected to its claimed current rating, with temperatures meticulously monitored using a thermal camera.

The results were eye-opening. Connectors rated for 10A and 15A from AliExpress quickly succumbed to the heat, emitting foul odors and melting within minutes. Even the Digikey connector, boasting a 20A rating and a datasheet, struggled to maintain safe temperatures, with internal components soldering themselves together due to the excessive heat.

Surprisingly, an unassuming AliExpress connector, rated for 20A, emerged as the unexpected winner. Its robust construction and thick middle pin seemed to dissipate heat more effectively, outperforming its pricier counterparts. However, the true lesson learned was that for continuous usage at high currents, a heavy-duty female socket with ample heatsinking capabilities is essential.

Voltlog discovered sockets designed specifically for this purpose, featuring ceramic bases, double metal shells, and extended lengths to maximize heat dissipation. This comprehensive testing underscores the importance of scrutinizing advertised specifications and prioritizing safety when it comes to electrical components, especially those handling high currents.

Voltlog’s dedication to uncovering the truth behind these unassuming accessories is a valuable contribution to the DIY electronics community.

InTheMail | Voltlog #472

Welcome to the first InTheMail episode of 2024 on Voltlog! In this installment, we dive into the latest gadgets and tools that have arrived at the lab, perfect for DIY enthusiasts, electronics hobbyists, and tech explorers alike. Kicking things off is a handy 24-pin ATX power supply on/off switch, a game-changer for anyone working with ATX PSUs.

No more fumbling with paperclips or risking short circuits – this nifty device features a dedicated on/off switch and even an LED indicator to signal when the PSU is powered on. Next up, we explore the world of cable sleeving with a nylon braided variety that can transform a mundane wiring job into a professional-looking masterpiece.

While not heat-resistant, these sleeves come in various diameters to accommodate different cable sizes, adding a touch of elegance to your projects. Continuing the theme of project essentials, we have mains voltage neon lamps in panel mount and glass bead variants, perfect for power presence indicators or test fixtures.

And speaking of testing, PTC thermistors offer a convenient way to simulate valve behavior when developing projects like the underfloor heating multi-channel valve controller board. Wireless enthusiasts will appreciate the crimpable N-Type RF connectors compatible with LMR400 cables, along with a press-fit variant that eliminates the need for a crimp tool.

And for those seeking a rugged, magnetic connector solution, the magsafe-style connector with its keyed design and solid construction is sure to impress.

This Soldering Iron Is Actually Nice | Voltlog #471

In recent years, the majority of soldering iron manufacturers have switched to using cartridge-style tips, which integrate the heater and thermocouple for optimal thermal conductivity and fast response. As a result, most soldering irons and stations that use these tips offer adequate soldering performance for the average user.

While reviewing thermal performance in great detail may not be as crucial nowadays, aspects like usability and accuracy are more important to consider. The FNIRSI HS-01 soldering iron is a portable and capable option that impresses with its excellent build quality and functionality. It comes with a 65W GaN USB-C charger, a flexible silicone-insulated USB-C cable, and a compact holder for the iron.

The tips are similar to Hakko T12 or T15 but shorter, allowing for greater precision when soldering small components. One standout feature is the intuitive temperature adjustment in 10-degree increments, making it quick and easy to dial in the desired setting. The iron also offers a sleek OLED display, a power percentage bar graph, and various settings accessible through a menu system.

In testing, the FNIRSI HS-01 handled soldering tasks with ease, from melting solder on large pads to precisely soldering pin headers and SMD components. Its ability to run from a power bank adds to its portability, making it an excellent choice for on-the-go soldering or as a backup to a dedicated soldering station.

Overall, the FNIRSI HS-01 soldering iron is a highly recommended option for those seeking a portable and capable soldering solution, offering excellent value for its performance and features.

Adding WiFi Connection To Rigol DHO800 Series | Voltlog #470

Unleash the Full Potential of Your Rigol DHO800 Series Oscilloscope with this Simple WiFi Hack! If you’ve been frustrated by the lack of built-in WiFi connectivity on your Rigol DHO800 series oscilloscope, fear not! Thanks to the ingenuity of the eevblog forum community, there’s a straightforward solution that will allow you to add wireless connectivity to your device with minimal effort.

The key to this hack lies in the Android operating system running underneath the Rigol DHO800 series oscilloscopes. By leveraging the pre-installed drivers for the Realtek RTL8188 chipset, you can transform your oscilloscope into a WiFi-enabled powerhouse with just a simple USB WiFi adapter. To accomplish this, you’ll need to acquire a TP-Link TL-WN725N USB WiFi Adapter (version 2 or 3), which is widely available and affordable.

These adapters are specifically designed with the Realtek RTL8188 chipset, ensuring seamless compatibility with the Android drivers on your oscilloscope. Once you have the adapter, simply connect it to your oscilloscope using a USB hub (along with a keyboard for initial setup), and follow the step-by-step guide provided in the video.

By accessing the Android operating system’s settings through keyboard shortcuts, you can easily connect to your desired WiFi network and enjoy wireless connectivity. While this hack may not be officially supported by Rigol and may exhibit some quirks (such as the GUI showing “network disconnected” despite being connected), the benefits far outweigh the minor inconveniences.

With WiFi connectivity, you can access the oscilloscope’s web control interface, transfer screenshots seamlessly, and even adjust the display brightness – a feature previously unavailable through the GUI.