Tag: screwdriver bits

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.

InTheMail | Voltlog #446

Welcome to another exciting edition of “In The Mail” where we unbox and explore the latest electronics goodies that have arrived at my doorstep. This time around, we have a diverse array of items ranging from radio modules to antennas, charging solutions, wiring essentials, and even some handy tools.

Let’s kick things off with the CC1101 sub-GHz radio module, a popular choice for wireless communication projects. I plan to connect this module to an ESP32 and explore platforms like Tasmota, ESPHome, or others to create an RF bridge to Home Assistant. This will allow me to capture signals from devices like smoke detectors with built-in radio signaling capabilities.

Moving on, we have a couple of USB-C charging modules that promise to upgrade our charging game. The TP4057 module with a USB-C connector and an integrated battery protection chip looks promising, while the second module offers switch-mode charging and boosting capabilities, all packed into a tiny SOT23.5 chip.

Speaking of USB-C, I’ve also got some handy adapters to bridge the gap between USB-C and USB Type-A, ensuring seamless connectivity across devices. And for those times when you need to extend your charging reach, I’ve got a couple of 1-meter USB-C extension cables, albeit a bit thicker than expected due to their high-speed data and power delivery ratings.

Wiring is an essential part of any electronics project, and I’ve stocked up on some silicone and PVC wires in various colors and gauges. These will come in handy for quick prototyping and testing, and having multiple color options makes it easier to keep track of connections. For my LoRa and LoRaWAN adventures, I’ve acquired a couple of antennas, including a beefy 55cm 12dBi 868MHz antenna and its smaller 37cm sibling.

I plan to put them through their paces with a nano VNA to test their center frequencies and SWR performance. Rounding out the mailbag, we have some handy tools like a J-Link PCB adapter for ARM microcontroller debugging, specialized screwdriver bits for electrical work and security screws, an electric engraving tool for PCB modifications, a sturdy syringe booster for dispensing viscous materials, and a multifunctional flume wrench kit for tight spaces.