Tag: test fixture

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.

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.