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Two Good Reasons To Attend Tech Conferences | Voltlog #458

Going to tech conferences and events can be an incredibly rewarding experience, both professionally and personally. As someone who has attended several such events, I can attest to the invaluable benefits of networking and knowledge gain. Firstly, let’s talk about networking. These events bring together professionals from various companies and backgrounds, creating a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals.

It’s a chance to exchange ideas, share experiences, and potentially forge new partnerships or collaborations. In fact, I’ve found that around 80% of the value I derive from attending conferences comes from the networking aspect. During my recent visit to The Things Conference in Amsterdam, I had the pleasure of meeting and conversing with representatives from companies like RAKWireless and Voltaic Systems.

These interactions not only allowed me to learn about their cutting-edge products but also opened doors for potential future collaborations or consulting opportunities. Moreover, the connections made at these events can be invaluable in solving technical challenges. I vividly recall an instance where reaching out to an STMicroelectronics engineer I met at the Embedded World conference in Nuremberg helped me resolve a complex issue within 24 hours – a task that would have taken significantly longer through traditional support channels.

Secondly, attending conferences is a fantastic way to gain knowledge and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in your field. The presentations, workshops, and exhibitions provide a wealth of information from industry experts and thought leaders. At The Things Conference, for example, I learned about Echostar’s innovative LoRa modules that can seamlessly switch between terrestrial and satellite communication, offering unlimited range capabilities.

In addition to the formal sessions, the informal conversations and networking opportunities often lead to valuable insights and knowledge sharing. I’ve made great friends, like Orkhan, a hardware engineer and fellow viewer of the Voltlog channel, with whom I’ve even collaborated on projects after meeting at a conference.

Overall, attending tech conferences and events is an investment in your professional growth and personal network. The knowledge gained and connections made can open doors to new opportunities, solve complex problems, and foster collaborations that might not have been possible otherwise.

InTheMail | Voltlog #457

In the latest edition of the beloved “InTheMail” series, our host unveils an exciting array of gadgets and tools sourced from the ever-reliable AliExpress. From practical accessories to cutting-edge electronics, this mailbag caters to both the passionate hobbyist and the professional tinkerer. Kicking things off, we explore a nifty threaded inserts tool kit, designed to seamlessly integrate threaded inserts into 3D printed parts.

Next up is a game-changing wireless adapter that brings the convenience of Apple CarPlay to your vehicle, eliminating the need for cumbersome wired connections. The mailbag also unveils a sleek carbon fiber EVA carry case, perfect for organizing and transporting your electronics tools on the go. Pill organizer boxes offer a versatile storage solution for small components, while waterproof Apple AirTag cases promise to extend the functionality of these handy trackers to aquatic environments.

Practical items like neoprene repair patches, adhesive-backed silicone rubber, and emergency signaling mirrors cater to a wide range of outdoor and survival needs. Battery terminal insulator sleeves and a miniaturized USB-C heating plate demonstrate the versatility of the offerings. For the tech-savvy, the mailbag includes a generic ESP32 development board with an OLED screen, as well as the tiny ESP8685-WROOM-07-H4 module, a potential replacement for Tuya CBLC5 modules.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the rugged 12KN carabiners and a handy aluminum bottle opener tool. Last but not least, a wall socket power analyzer promises to provide detailed insights into energy consumption, making it an invaluable tool for energy-conscious individuals and professionals alike.

AllPowers R600 LiFePo4 Power Station Review & Teardown | Voltlog #456

Welcome to an in-depth review and teardown of the AllPowers R600 LiFePo4 Power Station. This robust power station is a true powerhouse, designed to cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and those seeking a reliable backup solution during power outages. Boasting a substantial 299Wh capacity, the R600 is built around LiFePo4 battery cells, offering several advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries.

These cells provide an impressive cycle life of 3,000-4,000 cycles before losing 20% capacity, a wider operating temperature range, better depth of discharge tolerance, and enhanced safety due to their inherent chemistry. Despite its impressive capacity, the R600 is a heavyweight contender, tipping the scales at 7.3kg – nearly double the weight of its lithium-ion counterpart, the R600.

This added heft is a trade-off for the increased energy density of lithium-ion cells. The R600 is a versatile powerhouse, offering a plethora of output options. It features two AC outlets (600W max, 1200W peak), two USB-C ports with Power Delivery up to 200W, two USB-A ports with Quick Charge support, and two DC outputs (12V, 10A max).

This wide range of outputs ensures compatibility with various devices, from laptops and smartphones to power tools and appliances. One of the standout features of the R600 is its built-in UPS functionality. With a claimed 10ms switchover time, the R600 can seamlessly transition from grid power to battery power, ensuring uninterrupted operation during power outages.

This feature is a game-changer for those who rely on consistent power for critical tasks or equipment. The R600 also offers solar charging capabilities, with support for up to a 200W solar panel and a maximum input of 300W. This eco-friendly charging option makes the R600 an ideal companion for off-grid adventures or sustainable living.

In terms of build quality, the R600 exudes a premium feel. Its robust enclosure, reinforced with ribs and stiffening rods, ensures durability and protection for the internal components. The attention to detail is evident in the use of high-temperature silicone wiring, labeled connectors, and a modular design for easy maintenance or repairs.

While the R600 boasts impressive features and capabilities, it’s important to note that its larger form factor and increased weight may not suit everyone’s needs, especially for those prioritizing portability. However, for stationary use or short-distance transportation, the R600 is an excellent choice, offering a reliable and safe power solution with ample capacity and versatility.

KAISI TX-350E Soldering Microscope Review | Voltlog #455

In this comprehensive review, we take an in-depth look at the Kaisi TX-350E soldering trinocular microscope, an affordable and high-quality tool that can significantly enhance your soldering and inspection work. With a 7-50X zoom capability and a 100mm working distance, this microscope offers a clear and detailed view of even the smallest components.

One standout feature of the Kaisi TX-350E is its built-in fume extractor, a unique addition that helps remove solder fumes from your work area, ensuring a safer and more comfortable working environment. The microscope also comes with a camera port, allowing you to connect a separate camera for documentation or video purposes.

Unboxing the microscope reveals a well-designed and sturdy build, with all the necessary components neatly packaged. Assembly is straightforward, even without consulting the user manual, thanks to the intuitive design. The included ring light and adjustable brightness control ensure optimal illumination for your work surface.

While the working distance of 80mm may not be the most generous, it is still practical for most soldering and inspection tasks. The clear and crisp image through the eyepiece, combined with the stereoscopic view, provides excellent depth perception and detail, making it easier to work with tiny components and intricate repairs.

For those interested in using a camera with the microscope, the provided adapter allows for adjustments and focus fine-tuning, although parfocaling (achieving focus in both the eyepieces and camera port simultaneously) may require some effort. Overall, the Kaisi TX-350E soldering trinocular microscope is a well-built and feature-rich tool that offers excellent value for its price point.

Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional in the electronics industry, this microscope can be a valuable addition to your workbench, simplifying soldering and inspection tasks with its magnification capabilities and unique fume extraction feature.

Laser Fume Extractor Used As Solder Fume Extractor? | Voltlog #454

As an electronics enthusiast or professional, maintaining a safe and clean work environment is crucial, especially when dealing with soldering fumes. While DIY fume extractors can be a cost-effective solution, commercial systems offer convenience and enhanced performance. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of a commercial fume extractor from VEVOR, originally designed for laser engraving but repurposed for soldering fume extraction.

The VEVOR fume extractor, priced at around €220 shipped to the EU, boasts impressive specs with an 80W power rating, 180m³/h airflow, and a claimed 99.97% filtration level for PM2.5 particles. Upon unboxing, the unit’s sturdy metal construction and substantial weight (15kg) are immediately noticeable, hinting at its industrial-grade build quality.

One of the standout features of the VEVOR unit is its multi-stage filtration system, consisting of a pre-filter, activated charcoal filter, coarse filter, fine filter, and a HEPA filter. This comprehensive setup ensures thorough removal of soldering fumes and particulates, providing a clean working environment.

In comparison to a DIY fume extractor costing around €322, the VEVOR unit offers superior suction power and filtration capabilities. However, it comes with a few trade-offs, such as higher noise levels (65dB compared to 55dB for the DIY system) and increased power consumption (145W vs. 22W for the DIY system).

While the VEVOR unit excels in performance, it lacks some user-friendly features tailored for soldering applications. The lack of readily available replacement filters and the potential messiness of handling loose activated charcoal during filter changes are notable drawbacks. Fortunately, VEVOR also offers a specialized soldering fume extractor that addresses these concerns, featuring a flexible desktop duct system, multiple speed levels, and a more user-friendly design specifically tailored for soldering applications.

EastTester ET5410A+ Electronic Load Review | Voltlog #453

In this comprehensive review, we take an in-depth look at the EastTester ET5410A+ Electronic Load, a 400W max, 150V, and 40A fully programmable dummy load. With its 3.2-inch TFT display, this unit promises an improved user interface over the 7-segment display found in the Kunkin KP184. However, as the review unfolds, it becomes clear that while the ET5410A+ has some notable strengths, it also has areas that could benefit from improvement.

One of the key aspects evaluated in the review is the accuracy and precision of the unit. The manufacturer claims a resolution of 1mV and 1mA, but the reviewer found that this was not always the case, with the display sometimes showing only 10mV and 10mA resolution. After some investigation, it was discovered that a setting in the menu allowed switching between a low range (20V, 3A) and a high range (150V, 40A), which affected both the maximum input and the display resolution.

The functionality of the ET5410A+ is impressive, with features like battery testing, LED testing, and transient testing modes. However, the review highlights some potential software bugs, particularly with the battery discharge feature in Constant Resistance mode, which some users reported issues with on older firmware versions.

Build quality is a mixed bag, with both good and bad aspects. The reviewer praises the overall PCB assembly but raises concerns about the mains earth wiring, placement of wires and connectors, and the lack of full plated footprint holes for the MOSFETs. Safety concerns are also raised, with the earth connection passing through the PCB and soldering issues observed during the teardown.

Sugon 8650 Most Powerful Hot Air Station | Voltlog #452

The Sugon 8650 hot air station is a game-changer in the world of soldering and electronics repair. With its impressive 1300W heating power and 200L/min air volume, it outperforms many other stations on the market, making it an excellent choice for professionals and hobbyists alike. One of the standout features of the Sugon 8650 is its user interface.

The large 7-segment display provides a clear and comprehensive view of all the essential information, including the set temperature, actual temperature, and air volume. Additionally, it allows you to store and recall up to four preset configurations, making it easy to switch between different settings for various projects.

The attention to detail in the design and construction of the Sugon 8650 is truly remarkable. The heavy-duty metal enclosure and the high-quality components used in its construction ensure durability and longevity. The included accessories, such as the sturdy tool holder and various nozzles, further enhance the overall user experience.

In terms of functionality, the Sugon 8650 offers several modes, including gentle, normal, and rapid, which adjust the PID parameters to suit your specific needs. This level of customization is rarely found in other hot air stations, making the Sugon 8650 a standout choice for those who demand precision and control.

While the Sugon 8650 may be slightly more expensive than some other options on the market, its superior build quality, advanced features, and impressive performance make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about soldering and electronics repair.

Active-Pro The Most Powerful Firmware Debug Tool | Voltlog #451

Are you a hardware or firmware developer struggling with debugging complex systems? Look no further than the Active-Pro, a powerful real-time firmware and hardware debugger that promises to revolutionize your debugging experience. In this Voltlog review, I take a deep dive into the capabilities of the Active-Pro, and I must say, I was truly impressed.

This little tool packs a punch, offering a level of debug capability that is unmatched in the market. One of the standout features of the Active-Pro is its Active Debug interface, which allows you to integrate a snippet of code into your firmware. This code enables you to output any data you want via a standard printf, which is then captured and analyzed in the provided software.

Imagine being able to visualize digital inputs, analog inputs, various triggers, current waveforms, debug messages, and internal variables all within the same interface, all time-synced. It’s a game-changer! But that’s not all. The Active-Pro also functions as a logic analyzer, allowing you to capture and analyze digital inputs, digital outputs, and analog inputs in a familiar logic analyzer style.

Additionally, it supports hardware decoding for various protocols, including I2C, SPI, CAN, and LIN, with future support promised for USB and more. During my review, I put together a simple test setup involving an ESP32 reading an accelerometer over I2C. I was able to monitor the I2C traffic, debug messages, and internal variables simultaneously, all while leveraging the software’s powerful Packet Presenter feature, which decoded the raw data into meaningful information.

One of the most impressive aspects of the Active-Pro is its ability to monitor multiple devices simultaneously. You can have different processors, programmed with different IDEs, communicating with each other and other peripherals, and monitor the data flow between them on a single interface. It’s a level of integration that I haven’t seen in any other product.

InTheMail | Voltlog #450

Welcome back to another exciting episode of “InTheMail”! In this installment, we’ll be unboxing a treasure trove of electronic gadgets and tools that are sure to pique your interest. From cutting-edge USB testers to compact GPS modules and industrial-grade connectors, this mailbag is packed with goodies that will make any electronics enthusiast’s heart skip a beat.

First up, we have the FNIRSI FNB58 and FNB48P USB testers, which boast impressive specifications and a sleek design. These bad boys can handle a wide range of voltages, currents, and power levels, making them indispensable for any serious tinkerer. But that’s not all – we’ll also be taking a closer look at a nifty GPS module based on the ATGM336H chipset, perfect for prototyping and testing your location-based projects.

Moving on, we’ve got some exciting USB-C chargers and power delivery modules, including a car laptop charger capable of delivering a whopping 100W of power. Prepare to be amazed as we put this beast through its paces and see if it can truly live up to its claims. But that’s not all, folks! We’ll also be exploring industrial-grade circular connectors, Anderson-style connectors, and even a specialized connector for VW rear-view mirrors.

If you’re a fan of automotive projects, this one’s for you. And let’s not forget about the tools and accessories! From self-priming water pumps for your DIY plant watering station to audio modules, diagonal cutters, and a portable soldering iron stand, this mailbag has everything you need to take your projects to the next level.

So, buckle up and get ready for an electrifying ride through the world of electronics! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious newcomer, there’s something in this mailbag for everyone.

4K Dual Lens Security Camera From Reolink RLC-81MA | Voltlog #449

In today’s world, security is paramount, and having a reliable camera system is essential for safeguarding your property. The Reolink RLC-81MA dual lens, dual view, 4K security camera is a game-changer in the world of home and business surveillance. This compact yet powerful device offers a unique feature that sets it apart from traditional security cameras – the ability to capture both a close-up and wide-angle view simultaneously.

The RLC-81MA boasts two lenses, one with a 109-degree field of view for capturing a broad perspective, and another with a 43-degree field of view for zooming in on specific areas of interest. This dual-lens system allows you to monitor both the main entrance and the surrounding area, providing comprehensive coverage without the need for multiple cameras.

Setting up the RLC-81MA is a breeze, thanks to the intuitive Reolink app. With just a few taps, you can connect the camera to your network and start streaming live footage to your smartphone or tablet. The app offers a user-friendly interface, allowing you to switch between the two lenses, enable color night vision, and even sound a siren remotely.

One of the standout features of the RLC-81MA is its color night vision capability. With the built-in white LED, the camera can capture clear, color footage even in low-light conditions, ensuring you never miss a detail. However, it’s important to note that the white light may attract unwanted attention, so it’s best to use this feature judiciously.