DIY – Page 2 – VoltLog

Tag-Connect To ST-Link or J-Link Adapter PCB | Voltlog #460

In the ever-evolving world of electronics engineering, efficient and cost-effective solutions are always in high demand. One such innovation that has gained traction is the Tag-Connect JTAG connector, a game-changing alternative to traditional connectors. These pogo pin-style connectors offer a standardized form factor, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of PCB designs.

Tag-Connect connectors boast several advantages over their traditional counterparts. Firstly, their compact size saves valuable PCB real estate, allowing for higher component density and more efficient layout. Secondly, their simplicity eliminates the need for additional components, reducing overall manufacturing costs.

Furthermore, their durability and ease of use make them an ideal choice for both manual and automated production lines, streamlining the manufacturing process and minimizing labor costs. One of the challenges faced by electronics enthusiasts and professionals alike is interfacing Tag-Connect connectors with programming tools like ST-Link or J-Link, which often have different connector types.

To address this issue, a custom adapter PCB was designed, bridging the gap between these connectors and ensuring seamless integration. This adapter PCB not only solves compatibility issues but also showcases the versatility of Tag-Connect connectors. By incorporating footprints for various connector types, such as the 10-pin Tag-Connect model and a VoltLink connector, the adapter PCB becomes a versatile debugging interface, capable of supporting UART, GPIOs, and even flashing ESP32 modules through a Tag-Connect wire.

The design process of the adapter PCB highlights the importance of careful footprint selection and the ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges. Even when a footprint error occurred, the modular nature of the design allowed for a workaround, ensuring the PCB’s usability and demonstrating the resilience of the electronics engineering community.

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.

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.

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.

How To Disable Apple AirTag Speaker | Voltlog #440

Apple’s AirTag has been a game-changer in the world of tracking devices, allowing users to keep tabs on their belongings with precision and ease. However, one feature that has proven to be a double-edged sword is the AirTag’s speaker, which emits sounds to alert users of its presence. While this feature is designed to prevent illegal tracking, it can also be a nuisance for those using AirTags for legitimate purposes.

In this blog post, we’ll explore a simple and effective way to disable the AirTag’s speaker, giving you the freedom to track your belongings without unwanted audible alerts. By following a few straightforward steps, you can safely disassemble the AirTag and remove the magnet from the speaker, effectively silencing it.

The process involves carefully prying open the AirTag’s enclosure with a utility knife, taking care not to damage the retaining clips. Once opened, you’ll have access to the speaker assembly, where you can gently remove the magnet using the knife blade. This simple modification will prevent the AirTag from emitting sounds, allowing you to track your items discreetly.

It’s important to note that this modification should only be performed on AirTags you own and for legitimate tracking purposes. Misusing AirTags for illegal tracking activities is strictly prohibited and can have serious legal consequences. By disabling the AirTag’s speaker, you’ll be able to take full advantage of its tracking capabilities without the risk of unwanted audible alerts, ensuring a seamless and discreet experience.

Whether you’re tracking your bicycle, luggage, or any other valuable possession, this simple hack will give you peace of mind and control over your AirTag’s functionality.

Microscope Power Distribution Unit | Voltlog #436

If you’re an electronics hobbyist or a professional working with intricate setups like trinocular microscopes, you know the struggle of dealing with a mess of wires and multiple power adapters. Voltlog’s latest project, the “Microscope Power Distribution Unit,” offers an ingenious solution to this common issue.

In this project, Voltlog designed a compact PCB that takes a single 12V DC input and distributes power to three individual channels, each with its own protection and voltage regulation. One channel is configured to output 5V for powering LED lights, while the other two channels provide 12V outputs for the monitor and camera.

The beauty of this design lies in its simplicity and versatility. By consolidating multiple power adapters into a single unit, Voltlog has effectively decluttered their workstation and reduced the tangle of wires. Additionally, the open-source nature of the project allows others to replicate or modify the design to suit their specific needs.

Voltlog’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the choice of components, such as the use of PTCs for overcurrent protection and the inclusion of filtering capacitors for clean power delivery. The sleek green soldermask and ENIG gold plating on the PCBs add a touch of elegance to the functional design.

But the project’s true value extends beyond its practical application. It serves as a testament to the ingenuity and problem-solving skills of the maker community. By identifying a common pain point and developing a tailored solution, Voltlog has demonstrated the power of DIY electronics and the potential for streamlining complex setups.

New Joulescope JS220 Better Specs Same Cost | Voltlog #433

The world of energy measurement and analysis just got an exciting upgrade with the launch of the new Joulescope JS220. This cutting-edge instrument promises to revolutionize the way we monitor and optimize power consumption in modern electronics, particularly in the realm of IoT and low-power devices.

Developed by the brilliant mind of Matt Liberty, the creator of the original Joulescope, the JS220 builds upon the success of its predecessor while offering improved specifications and enhanced capabilities. Despite the global challenges, Liberty has managed to maintain the same affordable price point, making the Joulescope an even more compelling choice for engineers, researchers, and hobbyists alike.

The Joulescope JS220 boasts an impressive array of features, including the ability to measure current, voltage, power, energy, and charge with unparalleled accuracy and reliability. Its autoranging shunt ammeter supports an exceptional dynamic range, ensuring precise measurements across a wide spectrum of power consumption levels.

One of the standout features of the JS220 is its improved ADC performance, with an increase in effective bits and bandwidth, enabling more detailed and accurate data capture. Additionally, the instrument now offers more general-purpose inputs, a new trigger in/out function, and a software-controlled fuse, enhancing its versatility and ease of use. But the improvements don’t stop there.

The JS220 also boasts an extended dynamic range, with a measurement range of ±3A sustained and ±10A pulse, as well as improved resolution down to 0.5nA. The voltage measurement range has also been expanded to ±15V, providing even greater flexibility in analyzing diverse electronic systems.

Perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of the Joulescope JS220 is its open-source drivers, which enable users to automate test measurement setups using their preferred software, streamlining the process and maximizing efficiency.

VoltLink Shelly Adapter Test Jig | Voltlog #426

Welcome to a new video it’s been a while since I’ve done a project video on the channel and it’s not that I’ve not done any projects, I’ve designed lots of things this year it’s just that they’re part of my consulting business, under an NDA so they can’t be shared.

You may be familiar with the VoltLink, the usb to serial adapter that I designed a while ago, it’s quite popular on my Tindie store with lots of orders coming in and for good reason if you ask me, this is an awesome, reliable usb to serial adapter. To extend its functionality I also created this Shelly relay adapter which can be used to flash shelly relays, in a safe and reliable way by also powering the relay during the flashing procedure so you don’t need to have it connected to mains.

If you would like to order a VoltLink, you can find these on my Tindie store, there will be a link in the description of the video so check it out.

So far I haven’t any issues, not one single module with problems and I’ve probably made several hundreds of these. It’s a pretty simple design in terms of PCB, the components are 0603 so there isn’t much that can go wrong but recently I’ve started thinking about testing these.

Now the topic of test jigs and testing electronics in general can get pretty deep, especially if you need to implement it in the manufacturing process and keep track of the test results in an automated fashion but for hobby level it can be much simpler.

For example, depending on the number of units you manufacture, you can also skip testing all together, because if I sell 100 boards and 1 of them ends up defective, I can live with that 1 failure rate and I can cover the cost of shipping another board to that customer and all of this with zero resources wasted testing these but at the expense of one unhappy customer who needs to wait for another unit to be shipped.

So mainly for me that was the main factor for wanting to test these, to avoid having unhappy customers that might end up getting a bad unit. And I don’t really need to test for all of the things working, I just need to figure out if I have a working connection from the USB side all the way up to the shelly relay and also verify that the path can be used to communicate over serial and toggle the reset lines.

This kind of test would eliminate for example a lot of the most common issue like soldering problems with the USB Type-C connector or with the QFN chip, or with the PCB copper layers, or with the JST-SH pigtail connecting the adapter board, or soldering issues on the small adapter board so all of these would be eliminated.

So here is what I came up with, a series of 6 total shelly adapters, chained together in series with an ESP32 at the end of the chain. I would be connecting a VoltLink at the start of the chain, UART signal would then go through 6 of these adapters, connectors, pigtails and it would end up at the ESP32 side for either flashing the ESP32 or writing a small test firmware that would just communicate over serial to verify the whole chain is connected correctly.

ESP32 WLED Driver Board With USB Type-C Power Delivery | Voltlog #419

Same as most people these days I do have a couple of LED tapes in my apartment to provide some ambient or work area illumination. The ones I have are warm white 12V tapes and they’re typically controlled via some sort of touch dimmer which again is a pretty typical low cost commercially available solution.

But given how the rest of my lights are fully dimmable and integrated into HomeAssistant for remote control I started thinking how I could do that for the LED tapes as well. And I think you know where this is going, yup, I’ve designed my own LED driver board, this is it, based on an ESP32 and WLED compatible but more on that in a second.

First let me mention the list of requirements that I had, before I started designing this.

My number #1 requirement was to get rid of the typical LED tape frame style power supply units which are generally big and bulky, pretty noisy in terms of electro-magnetic radiation. I have plans for installing some small lengths of LED tape and there is no point in having like a 20W power supply if I’m only going to need something like 10W at most. So I figured why not design this LED driver board to take in USB Type-C power supply input, with power delivery support. This way I could power it from one of these usb-c wall adapters. Simple, clean and reliable if used with a high quality adapter. In addition to that, I would argue that it’s safer too when used with a high quality adapter because you no longer have to deal with mains wiring.

Number #2 requirement was to have an ESP32 in there so that I could integrate this into my smart home management system. Having an ESP32 will give me plenty of processing power to run either Tasmota or ESPHome or even better WLED which specializes on LED driving capability.

Number #3 requirement was the ability to drive both digital LED tape like SK6812 or WS2812 type and analog type LED tape which you have to PWM on individual channels. I wanted up to 4 analog channels so that I could drive an RGBW tape and at least 2 digital channels but I ended up wiring 4 digital channels because I had more available pins.

Number #4 requirement was to have the whole system small so that it could be put in a small enclosure, maybe even enclosed into a wall distribution box.

Now considering these requirements one by one, I’ve successfully implemented 1 to 3, not so much on #4, because the whole system is not as small as I would have liked it to be. When fitted inside the enclosure it measures roughly 90*70*30mm and ideally I would have like it to be half of this size, something like 90*30*30mm would have been great but I just couldn’t fit everything in that size unless I was going to do a double sided assembly which I tend to avoid because it significantly raises prototyping and manufacturing costs.

So let me start with presenting some of the technical specs that I have on this driver board:

USB Type-C power input with power delivery, based on this dip switch selection, it will negotiate for 5V or 12V. For safety purposes I have also added a manual jumper that needs to be manually selected to route the resulting voltage rail to the 5V side or to the 12V side because I figured there might be edge cases where the user has a 5V led tape connected and then accidentally requests 12V with the dip switch which would result in 12V being applied to the tape.
We have a secondary power input via screw terminal for those that do not want to use USB Type-C.
We have 4 mosfets with PWM for driving RGBW 12V LED tapes.
We have 4 digital LED channels, these are properly connected via a high-speed buffer line driver that also level shifts the signals to 5V.
We have an I2S microphone which WLED supports by default for sound reactive lighting.
We have an integrated IR receiver which once again WLED support by default for remote control.
We have a touch input GPIO where you could connect some improvised touch sensing point if you would like to implement touch control.
With some of the remaining available GPIO I’ve created this I2C standard 0.1 inch header so that you may for example connect additional stuff, like a temperature/humidity sensor.

VoltLink revD USB Serial Bridge & ESP32 Programmer | Voltlog #414

Ever since I’ve started offering the option for the Shelly programming cable, lots of people have ordered one because it makes the job of flashing an otherwise dangerously mains connected relay very safe by not having to power it from mains, but just supply it with DC power from the VoltLink itself.

But this video is not about that, it’s about the latest revision D of the board, the changes that it contains and some future plans.

So as you may have noticed there is no power LED on the VoltLink and to be honest for my personal use case I don’t really need one but I do understand people that want a power status LED so that they get a quick glimpse of whether the board has power or not.

Personally I think that because the VoltLink is so reliable in operation, the power LED is redundant but I do remember the times when I was using other cheap usb to serial adapters, there were the occasional issues with the micro usb connectors failing, with the on board chip failing, so it was nice to be able to see that you still got power to the board at least. Nonetheless, I added one to the new revision, placed it right next to the USB connector.

Now because I added these two extra components to my schematic, the LED and the resistor, I decided to switch to a resistor network to replace 4 x 1kilohm resistors with a single package to further optimize my BOM cost and DFM.

Another small change I did was to bump the 4.7uF decoupling capacitor on the USB to serial chip to 10uF because I was already using that value at the output of the voltage regulator. This once again, optimizes my BOM for using less parts as this will become important later.

And while I was revising the PCB, I also switched to these nice labels created with the Kibuzzard plugin for Kicad. No extra functionality because of these, but they do look nice.