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InTheMail | Voltlog #476

Gear up, electronics enthusiasts! In this installment of InTheMail, we’re diving deep into a treasure trove of tech goodies that are sure to elevate your workshop game. From cutting-edge ESP32-C3 development boards to sleek braided heat shrink tubing, we’ve got you covered. First up, we’re exploring the world of the ESP32-C3, a powerful microcontroller based on the RISC-V architecture.

We’ve got not one, but three dev boards to showcase, each with its unique features and form factors. Whether you need a compact solution or a board packed with extras like USB-C ports and status LEDs, we’ve got you covered. But that’s not all! We’re also taking a closer look at braided heat shrink cable sleeving, a professional-grade solution for your wiring projects.

While it comes with a few caveats, like a higher price tag and stiffer finish, the braided look is undeniably sleek and polished. Continuing our exploration, we stumble upon a rather intriguing (and slightly concerning) product – a pet positioning GPS locator with a built-in microphone. While its tracking capabilities are questionable, the ability to listen in on conversations raises some ethical concerns.

We’ll leave it up to you to decide how to utilize this technology responsibly. Moving on to more practical solutions, we’ve got our hands on a nifty hand wave sensor and a touch sensor designed for furniture integration. These clever devices allow you to control lighting and other low-voltage DC applications with a simple wave or touch, adding a touch of convenience and modernity to your projects.

And speaking of lighting, we’re diving into the world of LED tape controllers, specifically one powered by an ESP8266 module. While it may not be the ideal choice for driving analog LED tapes due to potential flickering issues, it’s a fantastic option for digital LED tapes, offering seamless integration with popular open-source firmware platforms like Tasmota, WLED, and ESPHome.

But wait, there’s more! We’re also exploring a budget-friendly Apple Watch charger clone and a unique stainless steel scrub cleaner for those who value a sparkling workshop (and cast iron pans!).

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.

Inside the RAK7289v2 LoRa Gateway & TTN Setup Tutorial | 465

In this engaging video, we embark on an insightful journey through the installation and setup process of the RAK7289v2 LoRa Gateway. The video begins with a captivating teardown, unveiling the intricate design and components that make this gateway a powerhouse in IoT connectivity. The disassembly reveals a meticulously engineered system, with multiple antennas strategically positioned for optimal performance.

The layered metal shielding not only provides a robust mounting point but also creates a solid ground plane, minimizing electronic interference and ensuring seamless antenna functionality. As we delve deeper, we uncover the core components that drive this gateway’s capabilities. The RAK634 WiFi Module ensures reliable wireless connectivity, while the RK5146 LoRa Concentrator module, with its 8-channel capacity, forms the backbone of the LoRaWAN communication.

The RAK8213 module, housing the Quectel EG95-E LTE modem, enables cellular connectivity, further expanding the gateway’s versatility. The video also sheds light on the power input circuitry, meticulously analyzing the components to ensure compatibility with various voltage inputs, including lead-acid batteries.

This attention to detail ensures reliable operation in diverse environments, including remote installations. Moving beyond the hardware, the video provides a comprehensive tutorial on configuring the RAK7289v2 gateway to connect to The Things Network (TTN). From initial setup to remote management using RakWireless’ WisDM interface, every step is carefully explained, empowering viewers to seamlessly integrate their gateways into the IoT ecosystem.

Tag-Connect To ST-Link or J-Link Adapter PCB | Voltlog #460

In the ever-evolving world of electronics engineering, efficient and cost-effective solutions are always in high demand. One such innovation that has gained traction is the Tag-Connect JTAG connector, a game-changing alternative to traditional connectors. These pogo pin-style connectors offer a standardized form factor, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of PCB designs.

Tag-Connect connectors boast several advantages over their traditional counterparts. Firstly, their compact size saves valuable PCB real estate, allowing for higher component density and more efficient layout. Secondly, their simplicity eliminates the need for additional components, reducing overall manufacturing costs.

Furthermore, their durability and ease of use make them an ideal choice for both manual and automated production lines, streamlining the manufacturing process and minimizing labor costs. One of the challenges faced by electronics enthusiasts and professionals alike is interfacing Tag-Connect connectors with programming tools like ST-Link or J-Link, which often have different connector types.

To address this issue, a custom adapter PCB was designed, bridging the gap between these connectors and ensuring seamless integration. This adapter PCB not only solves compatibility issues but also showcases the versatility of Tag-Connect connectors. By incorporating footprints for various connector types, such as the 10-pin Tag-Connect model and a VoltLink connector, the adapter PCB becomes a versatile debugging interface, capable of supporting UART, GPIOs, and even flashing ESP32 modules through a Tag-Connect wire.

The design process of the adapter PCB highlights the importance of careful footprint selection and the ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges. Even when a footprint error occurred, the modular nature of the design allowed for a workaround, ensuring the PCB’s usability and demonstrating the resilience of the electronics engineering community.

MDP701 New Micsig High Voltage Differential Probe Series | Voltlog #459

Welcome to a new Voltlog episode! Today, we’re diving into the world of high-voltage differential probes with the Micsig MDP701. This latest offering from Micsig builds upon the success of their renowned DP series, delivering impressive upgrades and cutting-edge features. Derived from their innovative SigOFIT optical fiber isolated probe technology, the MDP701 boasts an expanded bandwidth of up to 200MHz, with a 500MHz version on the horizon.

This increased bandwidth ensures accurate and detailed measurements, even in high-frequency applications. Additionally, the Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR) has been significantly enhanced, reaching an impressive -26dB at 100MHz and better than -80dB at DC, ensuring precise differential measurements.

Micsig’s commitment to quality is evident in the MDP701’s premium build. The probe features a sleek metal enclosure for the oscilloscope interface and a smooth matte black plastic body, exuding a professional and durable feel. The high-quality cables and strain reliefs further reinforce the product’s robustness.

In our hands-on review, we showcase the MDP701’s performance in a high-voltage measurement scenario, highlighting its ability to safely measure active switching devices in a power supply operating on mains voltage. The probe’s 5MHz bandwidth limit switch effectively reduces unwanted noise, ensuring clean and accurate waveform displays.

While the MDP701 lacks the hard carry case of its predecessor, it compensates with a comprehensive accessory kit, including test clips and a USB-C cable for convenient connectivity. Whether you’re an electronics enthusiast or a professional engineer, the Micsig MDP701 is a valuable addition to your toolkit.

Available through distributors like eleshop.eu, this high-performance differential probe is now within reach for a broader audience.

Two Good Reasons To Attend Tech Conferences | Voltlog #458

Going to tech conferences and events can be an incredibly rewarding experience, both professionally and personally. As someone who has attended several such events, I can attest to the invaluable benefits of networking and knowledge gain. Firstly, let’s talk about networking. These events bring together professionals from various companies and backgrounds, creating a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals.

It’s a chance to exchange ideas, share experiences, and potentially forge new partnerships or collaborations. In fact, I’ve found that around 80% of the value I derive from attending conferences comes from the networking aspect. During my recent visit to The Things Conference in Amsterdam, I had the pleasure of meeting and conversing with representatives from companies like RAKWireless and Voltaic Systems.

These interactions not only allowed me to learn about their cutting-edge products but also opened doors for potential future collaborations or consulting opportunities. Moreover, the connections made at these events can be invaluable in solving technical challenges. I vividly recall an instance where reaching out to an STMicroelectronics engineer I met at the Embedded World conference in Nuremberg helped me resolve a complex issue within 24 hours – a task that would have taken significantly longer through traditional support channels.

Secondly, attending conferences is a fantastic way to gain knowledge and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in your field. The presentations, workshops, and exhibitions provide a wealth of information from industry experts and thought leaders. At The Things Conference, for example, I learned about Echostar’s innovative LoRa modules that can seamlessly switch between terrestrial and satellite communication, offering unlimited range capabilities.

In addition to the formal sessions, the informal conversations and networking opportunities often lead to valuable insights and knowledge sharing. I’ve made great friends, like Orkhan, a hardware engineer and fellow viewer of the Voltlog channel, with whom I’ve even collaborated on projects after meeting at a conference.

Overall, attending tech conferences and events is an investment in your professional growth and personal network. The knowledge gained and connections made can open doors to new opportunities, solve complex problems, and foster collaborations that might not have been possible otherwise.

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.

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.

Active-Pro The Most Powerful Firmware Debug Tool | Voltlog #451

Are you a hardware or firmware developer struggling with debugging complex systems? Look no further than the Active-Pro, a powerful real-time firmware and hardware debugger that promises to revolutionize your debugging experience. In this Voltlog review, I take a deep dive into the capabilities of the Active-Pro, and I must say, I was truly impressed.

This little tool packs a punch, offering a level of debug capability that is unmatched in the market. One of the standout features of the Active-Pro is its Active Debug interface, which allows you to integrate a snippet of code into your firmware. This code enables you to output any data you want via a standard printf, which is then captured and analyzed in the provided software.

Imagine being able to visualize digital inputs, analog inputs, various triggers, current waveforms, debug messages, and internal variables all within the same interface, all time-synced. It’s a game-changer! But that’s not all. The Active-Pro also functions as a logic analyzer, allowing you to capture and analyze digital inputs, digital outputs, and analog inputs in a familiar logic analyzer style.

Additionally, it supports hardware decoding for various protocols, including I2C, SPI, CAN, and LIN, with future support promised for USB and more. During my review, I put together a simple test setup involving an ESP32 reading an accelerometer over I2C. I was able to monitor the I2C traffic, debug messages, and internal variables simultaneously, all while leveraging the software’s powerful Packet Presenter feature, which decoded the raw data into meaningful information.

One of the most impressive aspects of the Active-Pro is its ability to monitor multiple devices simultaneously. You can have different processors, programmed with different IDEs, communicating with each other and other peripherals, and monitor the data flow between them on a single interface. It’s a level of integration that I haven’t seen in any other product.