The newcomer to Microchip’s PIC microcontrollers invariably gets an LED to flash as their first attempt to master this technology. You can use just a simple LED indicator in order to show that your initial attempt is working, which will give you confidence to move forward. This is how the book begins — simple programs to flash LEDs, and eventually by stages to use other display indicators such as the 7-segment display, alphanumeric liquid crystal displays and eventually a colour graphic LCD.
As the reader progresses through the book, bigger and upgraded PIC chips are introduced, with full circuit diagrams and source code, both in assembler and C.
In addition, a small tutorial is included using the MPLAB programming environment, together with the EAGLE schematic and PCB design package to enable readers to create their own designs using the book’s many case studies as working examples to work from.
Over 180 Projects with Raspberry Pi, Pico W, Arduino, and ESP32
This bundle contains the Universal Maker Sensor Kit, which consists of many sensors, actuators, displays, and motors. It’s perfect for environmental monitoring, smart home projects, robotics, and game controllers.
The new Elektor book describes the design of many projects using the kit together with the popular Raspberry Pi, Raspberry Pi Pico W, Arduino Uno, and the ESP32 family of development boards. You can choose any of these development boards for your projects and either use the provided programs as they are, or modify these programs to suit your applications.
This bundle contains:
NEW Book: Universal Maker Sensor Kit (normal price: €45)
Universal Maker Sensor Kit (for Raspberry Pi, Pico W, Arduino, ESP32) (normal price: €70)
Raspberry Pi Pico W (normal price: €8)
Book: Universal Maker Sensor Kit
Learn to use more than 35 Sensors and Actuators with C++, Python, and MicroPython
This book contains over 180 projects for all four major development boards (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Pico W, and ESP32). Depending on the development board, projects are available in the C, Python, or MicroPython programming languages.
The project titles, brief descriptions, wiring diagrams, and full program listings together with their detailed descriptions are given in the guide.
Universal Maker Sensor Kit (for Raspberry Pi, Pico W, Arduino, ESP32)
Discover endless creativity with the Universal Maker Sensor Kit, designed for use with Raspberry Pi, Pico W, Arduino, and ESP32. This versatile kit offers compatibility across popular development platforms, including Arduino Uno R4 Minima/WiFi, Uno R3, Mega 2560, Raspberry Pi 5, 4, 3B+, 3B, Zero, Pico W, and ESP32.
Featuring over 35 sensors, actuators, and displays, it's perfect for projects ranging from environmental monitoring and smart home automation to robotics and interactive gaming. Step-by-step tutorials in C/C++, Python, and MicroPython guide beginners and experienced makers alike through 169 exciting projects.
Features
Wide Compatibility: Fully supports Arduino (Uno R3, Uno R4 Minima/WiFi, Mega 2560), Raspberry Pi (5, 4, 3B+, 3B, Zero, Pico W), and ESP32, enabling extensive flexibility across numerous development platforms. Includes instructions for building 169 projects.
Comprehensive Components: Features more than 35 sensors, actuators, and display modules suitable for diverse projects such as environmental monitoring, smart home automation, robotics, and interactive game controllers.
Detailed Tutorials: Provides clear, step-by-step tutorials covering Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Pico W, ESP32, and each included component. Tutorials are available in C/C++, Python, and MicroPython, catering effectively to both beginners and experienced makers.
Suitable for All Skill Levels: Offers structured projects designed to guide users seamlessly from beginner to advanced proficiency in electronics and programming, enhancing creativity and technical expertise.
Included
Breadboard
Button Module
Capacitive Soil Moisture Module
Flame Sensor Module
Gas/Smoke Sensor Module (MQ2)
Gyroscope & Accelerometer Module (MPU6050)
Hall Sensor Module
Infrared Speed Sensor Module
IR Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module
Joystick Module
PCF8591 ADC DAC Converter Module
Photoresistor Module
PIR Motion Module (HC-SR501)
Potentiometer Module
Pulse Oximeter and Heart Rate Sensor Module (MAX30102)
Raindrop Detection Module
Real Time Clock Module (DS1302)
Rotary Encoder Module
Temperature Sensor Module (DS18B20)
Temperature and Humidity Sensor Module (DHT11)
Temperature, Humidity & Pressure Sensor (BMP280)
Time of Flight Micro-LIDAR Distance Sensor (VL53L0X)
Touch Sensor Module
Ultrasonic Sensor Module (HC-SR04)
Vibration Sensor Module (SW-420)
Water Level Sensor Module
I²C LCD 1602
OLED Display Module (SSD1306)
RGB LED Module
Traffic Light Module
5 V Relay Module
Centrifugal Pump
L9110 Motor Driver Module
Passive Buzzer Module
Servo Motor (SG90)
TT Motor
ESP8266 Module
JDY-31 Bluetooth Module
Power Supply Module
Documentation
Online Tutorial
Discover endless creativity with the Universal Maker Sensor Kit, designed for use with Raspberry Pi, Pico W, Arduino, and ESP32. This versatile kit offers compatibility across popular development platforms, including Arduino Uno R4 Minima/WiFi, Uno R3, Mega 2560, Raspberry Pi 5, 4, 3B+, 3B, Zero, Pico W, and ESP32.
Featuring over 35 sensors, actuators, and displays, it's perfect for projects ranging from environmental monitoring and smart home automation to robotics and interactive gaming. Step-by-step tutorials in C/C++, Python, and MicroPython guide beginners and experienced makers alike through 169 exciting projects.
Features
Wide Compatibility: Fully supports Arduino (Uno R3, Uno R4 Minima/WiFi, Mega 2560), Raspberry Pi (5, 4, 3B+, 3B, Zero, Pico W), and ESP32, enabling extensive flexibility across numerous development platforms. Includes instructions for building 169 projects.
Comprehensive Components: Features more than 35 sensors, actuators, and display modules suitable for diverse projects such as environmental monitoring, smart home automation, robotics, and interactive game controllers.
Detailed Tutorials: Provides clear, step-by-step tutorials covering Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Pico W, ESP32, and each included component. Tutorials are available in C/C++, Python, and MicroPython, catering effectively to both beginners and experienced makers.
Suitable for All Skill Levels: Offers structured projects designed to guide users seamlessly from beginner to advanced proficiency in electronics and programming, enhancing creativity and technical expertise.
Included
Breadboard
Button Module
Capacitive Soil Moisture Module
Flame Sensor Module
Gas/Smoke Sensor Module (MQ2)
Gyroscope & Accelerometer Module (MPU6050)
Hall Sensor Module
Infrared Speed Sensor Module
IR Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module
Joystick Module
PCF8591 ADC DAC Converter Module
Photoresistor Module
PIR Motion Module (HC-SR501)
Potentiometer Module
Pulse Oximeter and Heart Rate Sensor Module (MAX30102)
Raindrop Detection Module
Real Time Clock Module (DS1302)
Rotary Encoder Module
Temperature Sensor Module (DS18B20)
Temperature and Humidity Sensor Module (DHT11)
Temperature, Humidity & Pressure Sensor (BMP280)
Time of Flight Micro-LIDAR Distance Sensor (VL53L0X)
Touch Sensor Module
Ultrasonic Sensor Module (HC-SR04)
Vibration Sensor Module (SW-420)
Water Level Sensor Module
I²C LCD 1602
OLED Display Module (SSD1306)
RGB LED Module
Traffic Light Module
5 V Relay Module
Centrifugal Pump
L9110 Motor Driver Module
Passive Buzzer Module
Servo Motor (SG90)
TT Motor
ESP8266 Module
JDY-31 Bluetooth Module
Power Supply Module
Documentation
Online Tutorial
The unPhone is an open-source IoT development platform powered by the ESP32S3 microcontroller. It features integrated LoRa, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, a touchscreen, and a LiPo battery, offering a robust and versatile solution for IoT development. Its compatibility with Adafruit's FeatherWing standard enables easy expansion, making it an ideal choice for educators, makers, and developers seeking a flexible and user-friendly platform.
Features
ESP32S3 microcontroller (with 8 MB flash and 8 MB PSRAM)
LoRaWAN licence-free radio communication (plus the ESP32's excellent wifi and bluetooth support)
3.5" (320 x 480) LCD capacitive touchscreen for easy debugging and UI creation
IR LEDs for surreptitiously switching the cafe TV off
1200 mAh LiPo battery with USB-C charging
Vibration motor for notifications
Compass/Accelorometer
A robust case
SD card slot
Power and reset buttons
Programmable in C++ or CircuitPython
Expander board that supports two Featherwing sockets and a prototyping area
Open source firmware compatible with the Arduino IDE, PlatformIO and Espressif's IDF development framework
Included
unPhone (assembled)
Expander board
FPC cable (to link the expander board to unPhone)
Self adhesive mounts for the expander board
Code Examples
C++ library
Kick the tyres on everything in the box
The main LVGL demo
CircuitPython
Support forum
Textbook (especially chapter 11)
This upgraded version 2.0 (available exclusively from Elektor) contains the following improvements:
Enhanced protective earthing (PE) for furnace chassis
Extra thermal insulation layer around furnace to reduce odors
Connection to a computer, allowing curve editing on a PC
Features such as constant temperature control and timing functions
The infrared IC heater T-962 v2.0 is a microprocessor-controlled reflow oven that you can use for effectively soldering various SMD and BGA components. The whole soldering process can be completed automatically and it is very easy to use. This machine uses a powerful infrared emission and circulation of the hot air flow, so the temperature is being kept very accurate and evenly distributed.
A windowed drawer is designed to hold the work-piece, and allows safe soldering techniques and the manipulation of SMDBGA and other small electronic parts mounted on a PCB assembly. The T-962 v2.0 may be used to automatically rework solder to correct bad solder joints, remove/replace bad components and complete small engineering models or prototypes.
Features
Large infrared soldering area
Effective soldering area: 180 x 235 mm; this increases the usage range of this machine drastically and makes it an economical investment.
Choice of different soldering cycles
Parameters of eight soldering cycles are pre defined and the entire soldering process can completed automatically from Preheat, Soak and Reflow through to cool down.
Special heat up and temperature equalization with all designs
Uses up to 800 Watts of energy efficient Infrared heating and air circulation to re-flow solder.
Ergonomic design, practical and easily operated
Good build quality but at the same time light weight and a small footprint allows the T-962 v2.0 to be easily bench positioned transported or stored.
Large number of available functions
The T-962 v2.0 can solder most small parts of PCB boards, for example CHIP, SOP, PLCC, QFP, BGA etc. It is the ideal rework solution from single runs to on-demand small batch production.
Specifications
Soldering area (max)
180 x 235 mm (7.1 x 9.3")
Power (max)
800 W
Temperature range
0-280°C (32-536°F)
Heating method
Infrared
Processing time
1~8 minutes
Power supply
220 V AC/50 Hz
Display
LCD with Backlight
Control mode
8 intelligent temperature curves
Dimensions
310 x 290 x 170 mm (12.2 x 11.4 x 6.7")
Weight
6.2 kg
Included
1x T-962 v2.0 Reflow Soldering Oven (Elektor Version)
1x USB Stick (with Manual and Software)
2x Fuses
1x Power cord (EU)
Downloads
Manual
This USB Logic Analyzer is an 8-channel logic analyzer with each input dual purposed for analog data recording. It is perfect for debugging and analyzing signals like I²C, UART, SPI, CAN and 1-Wire. It operates by sampling a digital input connected to a device under test (DUT) at a high sample rate. The connection to the PC is via USB.
Specifications
Channels
8 digital channels
Maximum sampling rate
24 MHz
Maximum input voltage
0~5 V
Operating temperature
0~70°C
Input impedance
1 MΩ || 10 pF
Supported protocols
I²C, SPI, UART, CAN, 1-Wire, etc.
PC connection
USB
Dimensions
55 x 28 x 14 mm
Included
USB Logic Analyzer (8-ch, 24 MHz)
USB Cable
Jumper Wire Ribbon Cable
Downloads
Software
USB-A to Micro USB-B power cable (power supply only) 1.5 m length with ON/OFF switch Add the ability to control the power to your USB-powered project simply by plugging a cable with a switch between the USB power port and the USB cable. There's no more need to pull the cable to restart or reboot your devices, just press the button to turn on and off, which helps to prevent the USB connector from wear and tear due to frequent pulling and inserting the USB cable. It can be used as a power supply up to 2 A. Not applicable for data transfer.
Features Type C cable USB type C is suitable for new version Raspberry Pi 4 No need to pull the cable to restart or reboot your Pi, just press the button to turn your Pi on and off Can be used as power supply for the Pi up to 2 Amp Help prevent the Pi's USB connector from wear and tear due to frequently pulling and inserting the USB cable Specifications Interface: USB Type C Current: 3 A Length: 1.5 m Use for: Raspberry Pi 4 Model B Packing List: 1x USB Type C power cable
USB-C to LoRa Dongle is a powerful and versatile LoRa device that lets you connect beyond boundaries. With its exceptional range and easy connectivity, it allows you to seamlessly communicate with devices up to 5 km away. LoRa Dongle is the perfect solution for anyone looking to establish long-range wireless communication in a variety of applications.
This dongle provides direct USB interface control, eliminating the need for a deep understanding of LoRa transmission concepts. They seamlessly connect with devices like Raspberry Pi, SBCs, PCs, and laptops, simplifying the creation of IoT LoRa gateways. The USB LoRa Dongles function as transmitters and receivers, accommodating various message formats, including text, hexadecimal, and decimal.
Features
Device with the most recent LoRa module, offering up to a 5-kilometer data transmission range and higher speeds.
Use new generation LoRa spread spectrum to ensure stable communication
Type C interface for LoRa configuration/Power
Status LED for power and data transmission
Serial TX/RX pin breakout in Header and Screw terminal form
Onboard jumper for operating mode selection
Specifications
Carrier Frequency (License Free ISM): 868 MHz
Chip: Based on SX1262 RF chip
Range: 5Km
Transmitting Power: 22 dBm
Receiving Sensitivity: -147 dbm
Data Rate: Up to 62.5 kbps
Interface: Type C
Communication Port: UART serial
Supply Voltage: 5 V
Operating Voltage: 3.3 V
Operating Temperature: -20 to 70°C
Included
1x USB-C to LoRa Dongle
1x Antenna (868 MHz)
What kind of device is this? And what can you do with it? Well, this device doesn't need much explanation.
The most useless device in the world!
The Useless Box literally serves no purpose, but at the same time it's so hilarious that you'll want to show it to everyone. With this kit you have the opportunity to build your own Useless Box and expand your technical knowledge. Ultimately, this device switches off every time it is switched on and therefore performs a completely pointless function.
Still curious? Then watch the video below. A must-have for every office: at home or at work!
Learn to program displays and GUIs with Python
This book is about Raspberry Pi 4 display projects. The book starts by explaining how to install the latest Raspbian operating system on an SD card, and how to configure and use the GPIO ports.
The core of the book explains the following topics in simple terms with fully tested and working example projects:
Simple LED projects
Bar graph LED projects
Matrix LED projects
Bitmap LED projects
LED strips
LCDs
OLED displays
E-paper displays
TFT displays
7-inch touch screen
GUI Programming with Tkinder
One unique feature of this book is that it covers almost all types of display that readers will need to use in their Raspberry Pi based projects. The operation of each project is fully given, including block diagrams, circuit diagrams, and commented full program listings. It is therefore an easy task to convert the given projects to run on other popular platforms, such as Arduino or PIC microcontrollers.
Python program listings of all Raspberry Pi projects developed in this book are available for download at Elektor.com. Readers can use these programs in their projects. Alternatively, they can modify the programs to suit their applications.
Menno van der Veen is well known for his research publications on tube amplifiers used in audio systems.
In this book he describes one of his research projects which focuses on the question of whether full compensation for distortion in tubes and output transformers is possible.
In the past, a variety of techniques have been developed. One of them has largely been forgotten: trans-conductance, which means converting current into voltage or voltage into current. Menno van der Veen has breathed new life into this technique with his research project titled “Trans”. This book discusses all aspects of this method and discusses its pitfalls. These pitfalls are addressed one by one. The end result is a set of stringent requirements for Trans amplifiers.
Armed with these requirements, Menno then develops new Trans amplifiers, starting with Transie 1 and Transie 2. These DC-coupled, single-ended tube amplifiers have unusually good characteristics and are suitable for hobbyist construction. Next the Trans principle is applied to amplifiers with higher output power.
A trial-and-error process ultimately leads to the Vanderveen Trans 30 amplifier, which optimizes the features of Trans. The characteristics of this amplifier are so special and unique that Menno believes he has struck gold. To ensure that variations in tube characteristics cannot interfere with optimal Trans behavior, Menno makes use of simulations and comparison with other amplifier types. This book reads like an adventure story, but it is much more – it is an account of solid research into new ways to achieve optimal audio reproduction.
Programmable Robot Kit with 344 Parts
variAnt runs and acts almost like its natural role model. Its patented walking mechanism was especially developed for the fine-boned anatomy of an insect and is driven by compact micro-geared motors.
The autonomous robot ant explores its entire environment with the help of 12 analogue sensors. This allows it to detect obstacles, markings, movements or light sources based on the slightest differences in brightness.
The control unit in the rear, which is equipped with a nano-board, offers a wide range of flexible connection options in combination with the breadboard in the head. After the exciting setup, ready-made and expandable code modules ensure an easy and quick introduction to Arduino programming up to the first experiments with artificial intelligence.
The kit already comes with a USB rechargeable 9 V Li-Ion battery, which supplies the robot ant with power for at least 5 hours.
Robot ant as a programmable kit
Compatible with Arduino IDE
Patented mechanics and sensors
Features of variAnt
24 high-quality acrylic parts
12 variable environmental sensors
2 reed sensors for step counting
2 freely programmable buttons
8 freely usable digital I/Os
15 pluggable status LEDs
Specifications
Content: 344 parts
Construction time: about 4-8 hours (no soldering required)
Dimensions: 25 x 22.5 x 9 cm (L x W x H)
Weight: 210/232 g (without/with battery)
Necessary tools
PC or tablet, micro-USB and USB-C cable, flat pliers, diagonal pliers, carpet knife, permanent marker
Downloads
Manual
Arduino library
Build your 3D led cube and create unlimited 3D effects. The unit comes standard loaded with effects. Connect to your computer (USB) and create your own!
Features
LEDs: 5 x 5 x 5 = 125 LEDs
User programmable via USB (creation of animation/scenes)
Large amount of user programmable frames
Frames are separately dimmable
4 transition speeds
Available frames: 3200
5 levels LED dimming available
No coding skills required
Software similar to (3 x 3 x 3)
Specifications
Regulated power supply: 9 VDC (not incl.)
Power consumption: 300 mA max.
Dimensions: 110 x 110 x 150 mm
Specifications Material: Conductive fastener tape: nylon Interior surface: conductive carbon Grounding cord: PU coil cord with resistor of 1 Mohm Band size: 2 x 23 cm Band resistivity: < 50 Ohm Color: blue
The ATmega328 Uno Development Board (Arduino Uno compatible) is a microcontroller board based on the ATmega328.
It has 14 digital input/output pins (of which 6 can be used as PWM outputs), 6 analogue inputs, a 16 MHz ceramic resonator, a USB connection, a power jack, an ICSP header and a reset button.
It contains everything needed to support the microcontroller; connect it to a computer with a USB cable or power it with a AC-to-DC adapter or battery to get started.
Specifications
Microcontroller
ATmega328
Operating voltage
5 V DC
Input voltage (recommended)
7-12 V DC
Input voltage (limits)
6-20 V DC
Digital I/O pins
14 (of which 6 provide PWM output)
Analogue input pins
6
SRAM
2 kB (ATmega328)
EEPROM
1 kB (ATmega328)
Flash memory
32 kB (ATmega328) of which 0.5 kB used by bootloader
Clock speed
16 MHz
Downloads
Manual
Specifications Lens diameter: 90 mm / 3.54' Dioptre: lens Ø 90 mm: dioptre 3 – magnification: 1.75 Power supply: 3 x 1.5 V AAA battery Dimensions: 210 x 170 x 110 mm / 8.3 x 6.7 x 4.3' Weight: 615 g Material: Stand: stainless steel Lens: glass Connecting parts: copper
Bring your projects to life with this multifunctional precision drill, engineered for a wide range of applications including cutting, drilling, engraving, polishing, and more. Powered by a robust 135 W motor, it offers variable speed control with an impressive range of 10,000 to 32,000 rpm – ensuring precise and consistent performance across various materials and tasks.
The drill comes in a convenient carry case with a comprehensive 162-piece accessory set, providing the right tool for every job and enabling seamless transitions between different applications. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, this versatile tool delivers the power, control, and reliability you need for high-quality craftsmanship.
Multifunctional Versatility
This all-in-one precision drill comes with 162 accessories, making it perfect for a wide range of applications – from cutting and drilling to engraving and polishing. Effortlessly switch between projects and stay prepared for any task.
Powerful Performance
Featuring a 135 W motor and a variable speed range from 10,000 to 32,000 rpm, this drill delivers consistent, high-performance output. It ensures accuracy and efficiency, even for the most demanding jobs.
Comprehensive Accessory Set
Whether you're a dedicated hobbyist or a professional, the included accessories provide everything you need to get the job done right. Enjoy maximum flexibility and convenience in one complete package.
Ergonomic, User-Friendly Design
Designed for comfort and ease of use, the drill features intuitive controls and an ergonomic grip. It fits comfortably in your hand, allowing for precise work—even during extended use.
Built to Last
Crafted from high-quality materials, this precision drill is built for durability and long-term reliability. Whether you're just starting out or are an experienced maker, this tool is made to deliver outstanding results again and again. Let me know if you'd like a more technical, casual, or sales-focused version too!
Included
1x Electric drill (10000-32000 rpm with on/off switch)
1x Flexible shaft (ideal attachment for precise, detailed work or hard to reach places)
1x Collet nut
4x Collets
10x Diamond wheel points
5x Fiberglass cutting disc
62x Cut-off wheels
1x Rubber polishing disc
2x Sanding drums
22x Sanding bands
1x Sanding flap wheel
12x Polishing stones
9x Wire brushes
7x Polishing felts
1x Silicon carbide grindstone
10x Grinding discs
4x Mandrels
2x Polishing compound
6x Drills (2x 1.5 mm, 2x 2.3 mm, 2x 3.1 mm)
1x Tool
Downloads
Manual
Specifications
Appearance and colour: transparency liquid
Odour: slightly pungent smell
PH value: 4-5
Flammability: non combustible
Density (g/cm³): 0.77-0.795
Boiling point: 235-255°C
Melting point: 130-150°C
Decomposition temperature: does not decompose easily
Solubility: insoluble in water
Weight: 10 g
This set includes all necessary tools to start soldering, plus two festive minikits to put your skills to the test.
The basic tools for soldering are a soldering iron (110 V AC version) and a support piece. We also included lead-free solder which is pretty easy to work with and its fumes are not harmful! Lastly, you’ll need some side cutters to trim the component’s leads.
The first minikit is the electronic candle, it has a warm yellow LED that mimics a real candle! This little solder kit only has 6 components to solder, which makes it the ideal starter kit.
Then it’s time to expand your skills with the original electronic Christmas tree kit. Solder more advanced components and a whopping 16 red LEDs.
Each kit is accompanied by an illustrated and comprehensive manual to make sure that anyone can master the art of soldering.
Features
Soldering iron and support (230 V AC version)
Lead-free solder
Side cutters
2 minikits
Resonances From Aether Days
A Pictorial and Technical Analysis from WWII to the Internet Age
From the birth of radio to the late 1980s, much of real life unfolded through shortwave communication. World War II demonstrated—beyond a shadow of a doubt—that effective communications equipment was a vital prerequisite for military success. In the postwar years, shortwave became the backbone on which many of the world's most critical services depended every day.
All the radio equipment—through whose cathodes, grids, plates, and transistors so much of human history has flowed—is an exceptional subject of study and enjoyment for those of us who are passionate about vintage electronics. In this book, which begins in the aftermath of World War II, you’ll find a rich collection of information: descriptions, tips, technical notes, photos, and schematics that will be valuable for anyone interested in restoring—or simply learning about—these extraordinary witnesses to one of the most remarkable eras in technological history.
My hope is that these pages will help preserve this vast treasure of knowledge, innovation, and history—a heritage that far transcends the purely technical.