Repair – VoltLog

Victron BlueSolar MPPT Repair | Voltlog #487

Are you a DIY enthusiast or a renewable energy hobbyist? If you’ve ever encountered issues with your Victron BlueSolar MPPT75/10 charge controller, this repair guide is just what you need. In this comprehensive tutorial, we’ll walk you through the process of disassembling, diagnosing, and fixing a common problem with these popular charge controllers – a blown fuse.

The video begins by introducing the Victron BlueSolar MPPT75/10, a budget-friendly yet capable charge controller that can handle up to 75V solar panel input and 10A of current. Despite its affordability, this unit packs a punch with features like a serial interface for configuration and compatibility with the Victron Connect app.

The disassembly process is meticulously explained, highlighting the challenges of working with a glue-sealed enclosure. Using a spudger, the presenter carefully separates the blue plastic case from the black acrylic back panel, revealing the internal components and the conformal coating that protects the PCB.

Upon closer inspection, the root cause of the issue becomes apparent – a blown 20A automotive fuse responsible for protecting the battery port. The presenter replaces the fuse, and voilà, the charge controller springs back to life, much to the relief of DIY enthusiasts everywhere. But the tutorial doesn’t stop there.

It also addresses a potential design flaw in the terminal arrangement, which could lead to accidental polarity reversal and subsequent fuse blowouts. The presenter offers valuable insights and tips to avoid such mishaps in the future.

InTheMail | Voltlog #482

Welcome to another exciting InTheMail unboxing extravaganza! In this episode, we dive into a treasure trove of gadgets, tools, and components perfect for any electronics tinkerer or maker. From mechanical fasteners and wiring accessories to unique finds like magnetic multimeter leads and a PoE detector, this mailbag is brimming with surprises.

One highlight is the heartwarming story of upgrading a toy excavator for a 2-year-old construction machinery enthusiast. By incorporating LEDs, sound effects, and vibrations, an ordinary toy was transformed into an interactive delight, sparking joy and wonder. This project showcases the magic of combining electronics with creativity.

Another intriguing item is the set of sodium-ion 18650 batteries. While still in the early stages of adoption, these safer and longer-lasting alternatives to lithium-ion batteries hold promise for future designs. The possibility of destructive testing (with caution, of course) adds an element of excitement and curiosity.

From essential components like standoffs and screws to specialized tools like the drain cleaning brush and countdown timer, this mailbag caters to a wide range of needs. Whether you’re prototyping, repairing, or simply exploring new technologies, there’s something for everyone. So, join us on this adventure as we unbox, explore, and dream up new projects with the latest additions to our ever-growing collection of electronics goodies.

InTheMail | Voltlog #461

As the 11.11 festival approaches, bringing with it a wave of tantalizing discounts, it’s the perfect time to explore some exciting new electronics and tools. This latest InTheMail video showcases a diverse range of products that cater to both the passionate hobbyist and the professional technician. One standout item is the smart UV curing lamp, a game-changer for PCB repairs.

Designed specifically for curing UV-curable solder masks, this lamp offers convenience and efficiency. No more tedious aiming of a UV flashlight – simply place your PCB under the lamp, set the timer, and let it work its magic. The raised corners ensure compatibility with various PCB sizes, making this a must-have tool for any electronics enthusiast.

For those seeking a lithium-ion battery solution, the featured battery pack case is an intriguing option. Designed to mimic the form factor of a standard 12V lead-acid battery, it offers the ability to create custom lithium-ion packs using 18650 cells. While the charging capabilities of the included BMS board raise some questions, this product opens up exciting possibilities for upgrading devices with improved capacity and discharge rates.

Cable management is a recurring theme, with the introduction of screw-hole cable ties and cable combs. The former offers a neat solution for routing wires and cables, while the latter promises to bring order and organization to even the most chaotic cable installations. Safety is also a priority, with the inclusion of a face protection mask.

While its intended use in the kitchen may be questionable, it could prove invaluable for tasks like Dremel work or polishing, shielding your face from airborne debris.

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.

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.

Infiray P2 PRO Good Yet Affordable Thermal Camera | Voltlog #442

Thermal imaging has become an indispensable tool for electronics enthusiasts and professionals alike, allowing for detailed inspection and analysis of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and electronic components. In this review, we take a closer look at the Infiray P2 PRO, a compact and affordable thermal camera that promises to deliver impressive performance for PCB inspection tasks.

Designed specifically for PCB work, the Infiray P2 PRO stands out with its high-resolution 256×192 pixel sensor and a blistering 25Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth and detailed thermal imaging. With a temperature range spanning from -20°C to a scorching 550°C, this camera is well-equipped to handle even the most demanding applications.

One of the key highlights of the P2 PRO is its optional macro lens, which allows for incredibly close-up inspections of PCBs and individual components. With a working distance of approximately 30mm, you can easily identify hotspots and thermal anomalies on silicon dies, IC packages, and even tiny 0402 resistors – a capability unmatched by many competing products in this price range.

The camera’s compact size and included USB-C extension cable make it highly versatile, allowing you to easily maneuver it into tight spaces and enclosures for thorough inspections. The intuitive Android app offers a wealth of features, including multiple color palettes, emissivity and ambient temperature adjustments, and advanced measurement tools like spot, line, and area measurements.

While the P2 PRO doesn’t offer image merging capabilities found in higher-end thermal cameras, it does provide a picture-in-picture mode for general orientation. Additionally, the ability to record video and audio simultaneously proves invaluable for documenting your findings and observations. Compared to alternatives like the UNI-T UTI260B, which lacks a dedicated macro lens out of the box, the Infiray P2 PRO shines in its out-of-the-box readiness for PCB inspection tasks.

Its combination of high resolution, macro capabilities, and user-friendly software make it a compelling choice for hobbyists, repair technicians, and electronics professionals on a budget.

InTheMail | Voltlog #437

Welcome to a new edition of InTheMail, where we unbox and explore the latest additions to my ever-growing collection of electronics gadgets and tools. This time around, we’ve got a diverse array of items, from smart home devices to specialized tools for electronics enthusiasts. First up, we have the Aqara Magic Cube, a nifty little Zigbee switch that can be programmed to trigger various actions in your home automation setup.

With its built-in accelerometer, you can simply flip, rotate, or shake the cube to adjust things like lighting or appliances. I’m excited to integrate this into my smart home system and ditch those pesky wall switches. Next, we’ve got a fingerprint lock that I plan to install on a cabinet or drawer. While not meant for high-security applications, it’s a convenient way to keep certain items private without the need for a physical key.

The build quality seems decent, and the external power port is a handy feature. For my electronics workbench, I’ve acquired a silicone mat, clean room wipes, and various cleaning brushes. The mat will provide a nice, non-slip surface for my new digital microscope, while the wipes and brushes will help keep my workspace spotless.

Speaking of microscopes, I’ve also picked up a set of AWG32 stranded wires in various colors. These ultra-thin wires will come in handy for intricate repairs, modifications, and bodges on PCBs. One item that caught my eye is an ingenious Apple AirTag mount designed to fit seamlessly into a bicycle’s water bottle cage.

This clever hiding spot should deter thieves from spotting the AirTag, making it an effective anti-theft solution for my bike. For my electronics tinkering needs, I’ve acquired a set of RFM95W LoRa modules and a DSLogic Plus logic analyzer. The LoRa modules will be useful for wireless projects, while the logic analyzer will allow me to analyze and debug complex digital circuits with its impressive 400MHz sampling rate and 16-channel capability.

Last but not least, I’ve got a unique ESP32-based WiFi display unit that pulls data like weather and time from the internet. While primarily a demo unit, it’s a cool hardware platform that could be repurposed for various smart sensor network applications.

InTheMail | Voltlog #435

Welcome to another exciting edition of InTheMail, where we unbox and explore the latest arrivals in the world of electronics! This time around, we’ve got a diverse array of gadgets and components that are sure to pique your interest. Kicking things off is a compact and versatile COB pocket flashlight that caught our attention with its sleek design and multifunctional features.

Boasting a rechargeable battery, USB-C charging, and a magnetic carabiner attachment, this little powerhouse is perfect for outdoor adventures or everyday use. Next up, we dive into the world of workbench organization with a tool holder rack. While the execution left something to be desired, the concept itself is a game-changer for keeping your tools neatly arranged and within reach.

For all your wire stripping needs, we’ve got the BEST brand BST-5021 tool, which promises to handle a wide range of wire gauges with ease. Pair it with its companion, the BST-5023, and you’ll be fully equipped for any wiring job that comes your way. Switching gears, we explore the realm of sewing with a set of extra-strong nylon upholstery threads, perfect for tackling outdoor projects or heavy-duty materials.

And for those adventurous kitesurf enthusiasts, we’ve got a waterproof pouch to keep your valuables safe and dry while you’re out on the water. Continuing our exploration, we showcase a multimeter belt clip that proved invaluable during a recent field job, ensuring your hands are free to work while your tools remain securely within reach.

We also delve into the world of magnetic field visualization with a tiny film that, while underwhelming in size, still sparks curiosity. Rounding out our mailbag are an array of exciting components, including paper insulating washers, waterproof panel indicator lights, a 433MHz wireless communication module, and compact mono amplifiers perfect for audio projects.

We even venture into the realm of mmWave radar sensors and a four-quadrant photodiode array, opening up new possibilities for experimentation and innovation. Last but not least, we unveil a set of copper pads designed for PCB repair, a must-have for any electronics enthusiast or professional tackling delicate soldering work.