Soldering – VoltLog

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.

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.

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.

Mastering PCB Cleaning with an Ultrasonic Cleaner! | Voltlog #467

Keeping your Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) in pristine condition is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. While no-clean solder products are available, many fluxes and soldering materials leave residue that can corrode components, cause leakage currents, and compromise the overall aesthetics of your projects.

Fortunately, an ultrasonic cleaner offers a convenient and effective solution for thorough PCB cleaning. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of using an ultrasonic cleaner, essential safety precautions, and a step-by-step process for achieving impeccable PCB cleaning results. The principle behind ultrasonic cleaning is a phenomenon called cavitation.

High-frequency sound waves create rapid pressure changes within the cleaning solution, generating countless microscopic bubbles that form and implode. As these bubbles collapse near the surface of the PCB, they release intense energy, dislodging dirt, contaminants, and residue from even the most hard-to-reach areas.

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s crucial to observe a few safety precautions. Firstly, never run an ultrasonic cleaner dry, as it can overheat and damage the unit. Secondly, avoid using flammable liquids, as they pose a fire risk when heated. Lastly, consult component datasheets to ensure that the parts can withstand ultrasonic cleaning and submersion in liquids.

To achieve optimal cleaning results, choose a high-quality ultrasonic cleaner like the VEVOR Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine, which offers adjustable temperature, cleaning time, and ultrasonic power settings. Pair it with a suitable cleaning solution and deionized water for best results. The cleaning process itself is straightforward: fill the cleaner with the appropriate solution, submerge the PCB, and let the ultrasonic waves work their magic.

Post-cleaning steps include rinsing the PCB in deionized water and drying it with compressed air. One of the significant advantages of ultrasonic cleaning is its ability to dislodge residue from hard-to-reach areas, such as between component leads and under IC packages, ensuring a level of cleanliness unachievable through manual brushing alone.

2023’s Best Electronics Engineer Gifts | 462

As an electronics engineer, having the right tools can make all the difference in productivity and efficiency. With the 11.11 Shopping Festival just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to upgrade your workbench or surprise your engineer friend with a thoughtful gift. In this guide, we’ve curated a list of top-notch products that are sure to delight any tech enthusiast.

First on the list is high-quality ESD protection from Welectron. Their anti-static mats are not only durable and chemical-resistant but also free from unpleasant odors, ensuring a comfortable working environment. Whether you need a large mat for your workbench or a compact one for your computer desk, Welectron has got you covered.

Next up is the highly anticipated Raspberry Pi 5, a true powerhouse for any electronics engineer or hobbyist. With a significant performance boost and new features like PCIe Gen2 and an RTC module, this little computer packs a punch. As an official Raspberry Pi distributor, Welectron is the go-to source for snagging one of these coveted devices.

For those in need of a thermal camera, the options are diverse and tailored to different use cases. The DytSpectrumOwl is a top choice for PCB inspection on your workbench, while the UNI-T UTi260B and Infiray P2 PRO offer portability and macro lens capabilities, respectively. Whichever you choose, a thermal camera can unlock new levels of productivity and troubleshooting prowess.

The Sugon 8650 Hot Air Station is a game-changer for soldering and rework tasks. With its precise temperature regulation, massive power output, and user-friendly interface, this station can handle even the most demanding jobs with ease. Investing in this top-of-the-line tool is a surefire way to elevate your soldering skills.

Last but not least, the FNIRSI USB power monitors (FNB58 and FNB48) are sleek and highly capable tools for measuring USB power delivery. With their exceptional resolution, cable chip detection, and Bluetooth data logging, these monitors are a must-have for any engineer working with USB-C and power delivery protocols.

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.

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.