Tag: Maker Community

InTheMail | Voltlog #468

Welcome back to another exciting mailbag video! In this edition, we’ve got a fantastic selection of electronics modules, tools, and accessories that are sure to pique the interest of any hobbyist or tech enthusiast. From practical storage solutions to unique bargraph displays and rapid prototyping boards, this video is packed with gems that might just inspire your next project.

Kicking things off, we have a pair of EVA storage cases that are perfect for safely storing and transporting small devices like logic analyzers or firmware debug tools. These compact and affordable cases are a must-have for anyone who values organization and protection for their electronics. Next up, we have a fascinating LED bargraph module that caught my eye.

This round, 31-segment display is a true eye-catcher and can be used in various projects, such as level indicators or visual displays. With options for different colors like green, red, and yellow, these modules offer versatility and a touch of retro charm. For those who frequently work with ESP32 or compatible modules, the prototyping PCBs featured in this video are a game-changer.

These boards allow for rapid prototyping and easy access to all pins, making them invaluable tools for any maker or developer. But that’s not all! We also explore a range of other exciting products, including a bicycle pump valve replacement, pneumatic fittings, high-quality cigarette lighter connectors (with a rant about delivery restrictions), connector adapters, USB Power Delivery decoy modules, and even an EMI filter module for power supply noise suppression.

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.