InTheMail | Voltlog #444

In the latest installment of the popular “InTheMail” series, tech enthusiasts are treated to a diverse array of electronics and accessories straight from the mailbag. From compact chargers and carry cases to specialized tools and sensors, this episode covers a wide range of products that cater to various needs.

Kicking things off is the VOLTME dual USB Type-C phone charger, a compact and powerful solution for charging multiple devices simultaneously. Its small form factor and GaN technology make it an ideal travel companion. Next up are EVA hard shell cases, offering protection for soldering irons and oscilloscopes during transportation.

The Ulanzi VL49 RGB LED light is a versatile addition for photography and videography, boasting impressive specs like high CRI, adjustable color temperature, and long battery life. The episode also showcases a learning RF remote control with an impressive frequency range, perfect for hobbyists and tinkerers.

For those in need of cable management solutions, the video covers keyrings, USB cables (including right-angle and USB Type-B variants), and silicone-insulated cables designed for soldering applications. Fiberglass cable insulation rated for high temperatures is also highlighted, catering to projects involving hot environments.

The mailbag also unveils a hidden GPS tracking device with 4G support and an upgraded USB-to-CAN adapter for CAN bus interfacing. Specialized tools like a BNC T-split connector and ceramic heating plates are also explored, offering potential applications in electronics and temperature control projects.

Finally, the episode touches on a radar sensor module and a waterproof temperature/humidity sensor, both useful for home automation and outdoor sensing applications.

Is The Iwiss 3220M Ratcheting Crimp Tool Any Good? | Voltlog #431

When it comes to crimping small connectors like JST, Molex, or Tyco, having the right tools can make a world of difference. In his latest video, Voltlog takes a closer look at the IWISS IWS-3220M ratcheting crimp tool, which promises an easier and more consistent crimping experience compared to traditional non-ratcheting tools.

One of the standout features of the IWS-3220M is its ratcheting mechanism. This not only makes the crimping process more user-friendly but also helps ensure consistent crimps by preventing over-crimping. The tool also features a dual-crimp design, allowing you to crimp both the insulation and the electrical connection in a single action – a significant time-saver.

During his testing, Voltlog found that the IWS-3220M did indeed offer a notable improvement over the non-ratcheting IWISS mini 2820M he had reviewed previously. The ratcheting action made it much easier to position the crimp and wire correctly before crimping, and the dual-crimp action streamlined the process.

However, as with any budget tool, there are some limitations. Voltlog noted that the precision of the crimping die might not match that of more expensive professional tools from brands like Molex or Tyco. Additionally, finding the right die size and ensuring the correct wire insulation thickness is crucial for achieving a good crimp.

Overall, Voltlog recommends the IWS-3220M for hobbyists and those working on smaller projects. While it may not match the performance of high-end crimping tools, it offers a significant improvement over basic non-ratcheting tools at a very reasonable price point.

Voltlog #223 – Is The Paron JX-D5 Crimping Tool Any Good?

If you are a frequent viewer of the channel you’ve probably heard me say that I need a crimping tool and people recommended I should get the good stuff, Engineer being a recommended brand, those being more expensive but having precision machined jaws that produce perfect crimping every time. Other people recommended some cheaper alternatives but I went with none of those options, I got this Paron branded crimping tool, from banggood which sent the product for free for this review.

This particular crimping tool is model number JX-D5 and has a total of 5 crimping dies in the kit, allowing you to crimp a good majority of the crimps you will encounter and this was the thing that really made me wanna order this tool because I don’t want to keep 5 different crimping tools, it’s more convenient to have one of these with interchangeable heads.

Voltlog #189 – InTheMail

Hello everyone and welcome to a new InTheMail the series that will touch both your passion for electronics and your bank account at the same time.

We’re gonna start with this interesting looking controller type module. So we got what looks like a big switching device here that probably needs a heatsink. Well this is a beefy triac, it can do 100A and can also withstand 1000A non repetitive peaks. We’ve kinda started from the wrong side, from the output but that’s what stands out from this module. We have an opto-isolator which has a triac output driver, separating the two sides of the board. Let’s check the clearance on the back, they have something like 3mm clearance in this area. If I were to design this, I would have done it with at least 5mm, I don’t see the point of extending this ground poor so close to this track which is on the hot side.

Links for all of the items can be found in the video description on the youtube page.

Voltlog #51- InTheMail

Here is a list of the items shown in this video:

  • Led 1w amber
  • 3W cool/warm white LED
  • 6W COB LED
  • 16×2 LCD HD44780
  • CREE XPE-R3 LED Mini Penlight Flashlight AAA
  • Green High Power Burning Laser Pointer
  • Green Laser 473nm Protection Glasses
  • HT7333 LDO Regulator
  • 2xAAA Battery holder
  • AAA 1.2V NiMH Rechargeable Battery
  • Terminal Block Connectors
  • 20 Pcs Gold Plated 4mm Banana Plug
  • Silicone Rubber Fan Mounts
  • 16mm Rotary Knobs
  • Neodymium Countersunk Hole Magnets
  • Dental Mirror
  • New T-Handle Tap Wrench Capacity M3-M6

You can find links to all these products in the video description.