59 Experiments with Arduino IDE and Python The main aim of this book is to teach the Arduino IDE and MicroPython programming languages in ESP32 based projects, using the highly popular ESP32 DevKitC development board. Many simple, basic, and intermediate level projects are provided in the book using the Arduino IDE with ESP32 DevKitC. All projects have been tested and work. Block diagrams, circuit diagrams, and complete program listings of all projects are given with explanations. In addition, several projects are provided for programming the ESP32 DevKitC using MicroPython. The projects provided in this book are designed to teach the following features of the ESP32 processor: GPIOs Touch sensors External interrupts Timer interrupts I²C and I²S SPI PWM ADC DAC UART Hall sensor Temperature sensor Infrared controller Reading and writing to SD card Reading and writing to flash memory RTC timer Chip ID Security and encryption Wi-Fi and network programming Bluetooth BLE programming Communication mobile devices Low power design ESP-IDF programming The projects have been organized with increasing levels of difficulty. Readers are encouraged to tackle the projects in the order given. A specially prepared hardware kit (SKU 18305) is available from Elektor. With the help of this hardware, it should be easy and fun to build the projects in this book.

Read (+) (–)

Over 45 Builds for the Legendary 555 Chip (and the 556, 558) The 555 timer IC, originally introduced by the Signetics Corporation around 1971, is sure to rank high among the most popular analog integrated circuits ever produced. Originally called the IC Time Machine, this chip has been used in many timer-related projects by countless people over decades. This book is all about designing projects based on the 555 timer IC. Over 45 fully tested and documented projects are presented. All projects have been fully tested by the author by constructing them individually on a breadboard. You are not expected to have any programming experiences for constructing or using the projects given in the book. However, it’s definitely useful to have some knowledge of basic electronics and the use of a breadboard for constructing and testing electronic circuits. Some of the projects in the book are: Alternately Flashing Two LEDs Changing LED Flashing Rate Touch Sensor On/Off Switch Switch On/Off Delay Light-Dependent Sound Dark/Light Switch Tone Burst Generator Long Duration Timer Chasing LEDs LED Roulette Game Traffic Lights Continuity Tester Electronic Lock Switch Contact Debouncing Toy Electronic Organ Multiple Sensor Alarm System Metronome Voltage Multipliers Electronic Dice 7-Segment Display Counter Motor Control 7-Segment Display Dice Electronic Siren Various Other Projects The projects given in the book can be modified or expanded by you for your very own applications. Electronic engineering students, people engaged in designing small electronic circuits, and electronic hobbyists should find the projects in the book instructive, fun, interesting, and useful.

Read (+) (–)

Getting started with the world’s best open-source PCB tool The latest iteration of KiCad, the world’s best free-to-use Printed Circuit Board tool, is packed with features usually found only in expensive commercial CAD tools. This modern, cross-platform application suite built around schematic and design editors, with auxiliary applications is a stable and mature PCB tool. KiCad 8 is a perfect fit for electronic engineers and makers. Here are the most significant improvements and features in KiCad 8, both over and under the hood: Modern user interface, completely redesigned from earlier versions Improved and customizable electrical and design rule checkers Theme editor allowing you to customize KiCad on your screen Ability to import projects from Eagle, CADSTART, and more Python scripting API Improved integrated SPICE circuit simulator Multi-sheet schematics Filters define selectable elements Enhanced interactive router helps you draw single tracks and differential pairs with precision New or enhanced tools to draw tracks, measure distances, tune track lengths, etc. Advanced interactive router Built-in bill of materials generator Realistic ray-tracing capable 3D viewer Customizable teardrops Plug-in manager for quick installation of themes, libraries and functionalities such as autorouters and BOM generators This book will teach you to use KiCad through a practical approach. It will help you become productive quickly and start designing your own boards. Example projects illustrate the basic features of KiCad, even if you have no prior knowledge of PCB design. The author describes the entire workflow from schematic entry to the intricacies of finalizing the files for PCB production and offers sound guidance on the process. Further full-fledged projects, of incremental difficulty, will be presented in a second book, together with a variety of advanced recipes.

Read (+) (–)

Program and Build Raspberry Pi 5 Based Ham Station Utilities with the RTL-SDR The RTL-SDR devices (V3 and V4) have gained popularity among radio amateurs because of their very low cost and rich features. A basic system may consist of a USB based RTL-SDR device (dongle) with a suitable antenna, a Raspberry Pi 5 computer, a USB based external audio input-output adapter, and software installed on the Raspberry Pi 5 computer. With such a modest setup, it is possible to receive signals from around 24 MHz to over 1.7 GHz. This book is aimed at amateur radio enthusiasts and electronic engineering students, as well as at anyone interested in learning to use the Raspberry Pi 5 to build electronic projects. The book is suitable for both beginners through experienced readers. Some knowledge of the Python programming language is required to understand and eventually modify the projects given in the book. A block diagram, a circuit diagram, and a complete Python program listing is given for each project, alongside a comprehensive description. The following popular RTL-SDR programs are discussed in detail, aided by step-by-step installation guides for practical use on a Raspberry Pi 5: SimpleFM GQRX SDR++ CubicSDR RTL-SDR Server Dump1090 FLDIGI Quick RTL_433 aldo xcwcp GPredict TWCLOCK CQRLOG klog Morse2Ascii PyQSO Welle.io Ham Clock CHIRP xastir qsstv flrig XyGrib FreeDV Qtel (EchoLink) XDX (DX-Cluster) WSJT-X The application of the Python programming language on the latest Raspberry Pi 5 platform precludes the use of the programs in the book from working on older versions of Raspberry Pi computers.

Read (+) (–)

Hands-on in more than 50 projects STM32 Nucleo family of processors are manufactured by STMicroelectronics. These are low-cost ARM microcontroller development boards. This book is about developing projects using the popular STM32CubeIDE software with the Nucleo-L476RG development board. In the early Chapters of the book the architecture of the Nucleo family is briefly described. The book covers many projects using most features of the Nucleo-L476RG development board where the full software listings for the STM32CubeIDE are given for each project together with extensive descriptions. The projects range from simple flashing LEDs to more complex projects using modules, devices, and libraries such as GPIO, ADC, DAC, I²C, SPI, LCD, DMA, analogue inputs, power management, X-CUBE-MEMS1 library, DEBUGGING, and others. In addition, several projects are given using the popular Nucleo Expansion Boards. These Expansion Boards plug on top of the Nucleo development boards and provide sensors, relays, accelerometers, gyroscopes, Wi-Fi, and many others. Using an expansion board together with the X-CUBE-MEMS1 library simplifies the task of project development considerably. All the projects in the book have been tested and are working. The following sub-headings are given for each project: Project Title, Description, Aim, Block Diagram, Circuit Diagram, and Program Listing for the STM32CubeIDE. In this book you will learn about STM32 microcontroller architecture; the Nucleo-L476RG development board in projects using the STM32CubeIDE integrated software development tool; external and internal interrupts and DMA; DEBUG, a program developed using the STM32CubeIDE; the MCU in Sleep, Stop, and in Standby modes; Nucleo Expansion Boards with the Nucleo development boards. What you need a PC with Internet connection and a USB port; STM32CubeIDE software (available at STMicroelectronics website free of charge) the project source files, available from the book’s webpage hosted by Elektor; Nucleo-L476RG development board; simple electronic devices such as LEDs, temperature sensor, I²C and SPI chips, and a few more; Nucleo Expansion Boards (optional).

Read (+) (–)

AVR Architecture and Programming An in-depth look at the 8-bit AVR architecture found in ATtiny and ATmega microcontrollers, mainly from a software and programming point of view. Explore the AVR architecture using C and assembly language in Microchip Studio (formerly Atmel Studio) with ATtiny microcontrollers. Learn the details of how AVR microcontrollers work internally, including the internal registers and memory map of ATtiny devices. Program ATtiny microcontrollers using an Atmel-ICE programmer/debugger, or use a cheap hobby programmer, or even an Arduino Uno as a programmer. Most code examples can be run using the Microchip Studio AVR simulator. Learn to write programs for ATtiny microcontrollers in assembly language. See how assembly language is converted to machine code instructions by the assembler program. Find out how programs written in the C programming language end up as assembly language and finally as machine code instructions. Use the Microchip Studio debugger in combination with a hardware USB programmer/debugger to test assembly and C language programs, or use the Microchip Studio AVR simulator. DIP packaged ATtiny microcontrollers are used in this volume for easy use on electronic breadboards, targeting mainly the ATtiny13(A) and ATtiny25/45/85. Learn about instruction timing and clocks in AVR microcontrollers using ATtiny devices. Be on your way to becoming an AVR expert with advanced debugging and programming skills.

Read (+) (–)

The FNIRSI DWS-200 is a powerful 200 W smart soldering station, ideal for electronic soldering applications. Powered by a switch-mode power supply, it operates smoothly with a wide voltage input range of 100-240 V. The station provides an adjustable temperature range from 100°C to 450°C (212°F to 842°F) and allows for easy switching between °C and °F. To enhance efficiency, it supports up to three preset temperature values and can connect to a soldering iron stand for standby mode activation. The station also features a dynamic temperature curve mode for real-time data monitoring, ensuring precise and consistent performance in demanding soldering tasks. Features Maximum power output of 200 W, allowing for fast heating Wide adaptive voltage input of 100-240 V 2.8" HD color TFT display with intelligent control Multiple preset groups to switch between different settings quickly Supports F245 and F210 soldering handle types, offering flexibility for different soldering applications Real-time sleep mode to extend the life of the soldering tip Multi-mode real-time monitoring for power and temperature status, enhancing safety and precision Specifications Peak Power 200 W (max) Temperature Range 100°C~450°C (212°F~842°F) Display 2.8" TFT HD Color Screen Heating Time 1 sec Melting Time 3 sec Input Voltage 100-240 V (AC) Input Fuse 3 A Soldering Handle Type F245 Dimensions (Station) 156 x 96 x 103 mm Weight (Station) 475 g Included 1x FNIRSI DWS-200 Soldering Station 1x Soldering Handle F245 6x Soldering Tips (B, KU, K, C2, I, JS) 1x Connecting Cable 2x Helping Hands 1x Power Cable (EU) Downloads Manual Firmware V1.3

Read (+) (–)

Although the Arduino isn’t a novelty any longer, there are still many beginners who want to try programming and development with a microcontroller, and to them, it is all new. All beginnings can be difficult, though they should be light and enjoyable. You do not need much or expensive equipment for the examples. The circuits are built on a small breadboard, and, if necessary, connected to an Arduino Uno, which you can program on a Windows PC. You will find clear examples of how to build all circuits, ensuring easy and error-free reproduction. Projects Discussed Current & Voltage – How it all began Arduino Hardware Arduino Programming The Electrical Circuit Measuring with the Multimeter Circuit Diagrams and Breadboards Creating Circuit Diagrams Breadboard Views with Fritzing Online Circuit Simulation Indispensable: Resistors (Part 1) Hands-on with Resistors (Part 2) Variable Resistors Diodes: One-way Street for Current The Transistor Switch Electromagnetism Relays and Motors op-amps: Operational Amplifiers Capacitors The NE555 Timer PWM and Analogue Values with Arduino 7-Segment Temperature Display Introduction to Soldering and LCDs

Read (+) (–)

This book is about DC electric motors and their use in Arduino and Raspberry Pi Zero W based projects. The book includes many tested and working projects where each project has the following sub-headings: Title of the project Description of the project Block diagram Circuit diagram Project assembly Complete program listing of the project Full description of the program The projects in the book cover the standard DC motors, stepper motors, servo motors, and mobile robots. The book is aimed at students, hobbyists, and anyone else interested in developing microcontroller based projects using the Arduino Uno or the Raspberry Pi Zero W. One of the nice features of this book is that it gives complete projects for remote control of a mobile robot from a mobile phone, using the Arduino Uno as well as the Raspberry Pi Zero W development boards. These projects are developed using Wi-Fi as well as the Bluetooth connectivity with the mobile phone. Readers should be able to move a robot forward, reverse, turn left, or turn right by sending simple commands from a mobile phone. Full program listings of all the projects as well as the detailed program descriptions are given in the book. Users should be able to use the projects as they are presented, or modify them to suit to their own needs.

Read (+) (–)

Sound Secrets and Technology What would today’s rock and pop music be without electric lead and bass guitars? These instruments have been setting the tone for more than sixty years. Their underlying sound is determined largely by their electrical components. But, how do they actually work? Almost no one is able to explain this to the true musician with no technical background. This book answers many questions simply, in an easily-understandable manner. For the interested musician (and others), this book unveils, in a simple and well-grounded way, what have, until now, been regarded as manufacturer secrets. The examination explores deep within the guitar, including pickups and electrical environment, so that guitar electronics are no longer considered highly secret. With a few deft interventions, many instruments can be rendered more versatile and made to sound a lot better – in the most cost-effective manner. The author is an experienced electronics professional and active musician. He has thoroughly tested everything described here, in practice.

Read (+) (–)

The Peak Atlas ESR70 gold is an enhanced version of the previous Peak Atlas ESR70 Plus. It does everything that the ESR70 Plus did but better. It now measures capacitance up to 10x faster, and over a wider range, thanks to new test algorithms. The capacitance measurement is also much less influenced by parallel resistances or leakage current thanks to our new Triple-Slope measurement system. Using the supplied gold plated probes (removable), the Atlas ESR70 gold can measure ESR down to a resolution of 0.01 ohms, up to 40 ohms. It can even measure ESR for capacitors that are in-circuit. Probes are removable, allowing 2 mm compatible probes to be fitted. Audible alerts are produced for various ESR levels allowing you to perform many tests in succession without having to look at the display. The ESR70 automatically takes capacitive reactance into account, so even low value capacitors (down to 0.3 uF) can have the ESR measured accurately. Features Uses a single AAA Alkaline cell (included) Alphanumeric LCD with backlight Automatic analysis-start when you apply the probes Automatic capacitor discharge using controlled discharge function ESR (and low DC resistance) measurement (even in-circuit) Capacitive reactance automatically taken into account to ensure accurate ESR Capacitance measurement (if testing out-of-circuit) Audible alerts for various ESR levels Extended ESR measurement range up to 40 Ohms Optional probe alternatives easily fitted New gold Features Improved LCD with better backlight 10x faster capacitance measurement for large capacitors Enhanced user options system New triple-slope measurement system to vastly reduce the influence of parallel resistance and/or leakage current on capacitance measurements Much wider capacitance measurement range now 0.3 uF to 90,000 uF (was 1uF to 22,000uF) Specifications Analyzer type ESR and Capacitance Component types Capacitors (>0.3 uF) ESR range 0.00 Ohms to 40.0 Ohms ESR resolution From 0.01 Ohms In-circuit use ESR only Capacitance range 0.3 uF to 90000 uF Battery type 1.5 V Alkaline AAA Cell (supplied). Life typically 1500 ops Display type Alphanumeric LCD (with backlight) Included Peak Atlas ESR70 gold Extra-long and extra-flexible test cables (450 mm of Silicone covered cable) 2 mm gold plated plugs and sockets with removeable gold plated crocodile clips Comprehensive illustrated user guide AAA Alkaline cell Downloads Datasheet (EN) User Guide (EN) User Guide (FR) User Guide (IT)

Read (+) (–)

Learn RC and RL Filters with Hands-On Circuits and Simulation Introduction to Electronic Filters is your comprehensive guide to understanding, designing, and applying first-order electronic filters using resistors, capacitors, and inductors. Whether you are a student, maker, or educator, this book demystifies the theory behind RC and RL filters and bridges the gap between concepts and real-world applications through simulation and experimentation. From the basics of frequency response and phase shift to hands-on breadboard builds and Python-based simulations, this book offers a deeply practical learning experience. You will learn to analyse filters using Bode plots and phasors, and explore applications in audio tone shaping, sensor signal conditioning, noise reduction, and power supply filtering. As you progress, you’ll build, measure, simulate, and tune filters using modern tools like CircuitLab, Python, and the Analog Discovery 3. Each chapter includes thoughtfully crafted activities that reinforce learning by doing – designing filters for specific tasks, simulating dynamic behaviour, and observing how theory translates into performance. Inside you’ll find: A clear introduction to the fundamentals of electronic filters Detailed explanations of RC and RL filters, cutoff frequency, and phase Guided activities using both simulation and hardware tools Real-life applications in audio, sensors, power supplies, and more A beginner-friendly primer on Python and algebra for electronics Whether you’re working through simulations or experimenting with real components on your workbench, this book will help you develop a solid understanding of electronic filters and their role in practical circuits.

Read (+) (–)

Plot, Cut, Drill, Mill and Laser with the Z99 This book covers the construction, hardware, software, and operation of the Z99 – CNC machine. This is a multifunctional 4-axis machine for home construction. The capabilities of the Z99 machine include: large-format schematic plotting PCB plotting with etch-resist pens schematic plotting with conductive-ink pens letter cutting out of vinyl paper cutting PCB/substrate drilling PCB/substrate milling text milling laser engraving laser cutting of solder paste masks By making the support software available as freeware, readers of the book are challenged and encouraged to develop new applications for the Z99. The machine would not be of much use if the user has no option to create suitable files for the designs in mind. A large part of this book is dedicated to creating source files in a variety of freeware software packages, including Inkscape, DesignSpark PCB, KiCad, and FlatCAM. The book is also useful for readers keen to comprehend and then master the basic structure of HPGL, Gerber, Drill, and G-code files, as well as to have a go at deciphering them using software.

Read (+) (–)

With this 65 W USB-C PD power supply (with GaN technology) you can start using the FNIRSI HS-01 soldering iron straight away. Of course, you can also use this charger to fast charge your tablets and smartphones via USB-C and USB-A. Included 65 W USB-C PD GaN Power Supply (EU)

Read (+) (–)

Ready-to-use devices and self-built Arduino nodes in the 'The Things Network' LoRaWAN has developed excellently as a communication solution in the IoT. The Things Network (TTN) has contributed to this. The Things Network was upgraded to The Things Stack Community Edition (TTS (CE)). The TTN V2 clusters were closed towards the end of 2021. This book shows you the necessary steps to operate LoRaWAN nodes using TTS (CE) and maybe extend the network of gateways with an own gateway. Meanwhile, there are even LoRaWAN gateways suitable for mobile use with which you can connect to the TTN server via your cell phone. The author presents several commercial LoRaWAN nodes and new, low-cost and battery-powered hardware for building autonomous LoRaWAN nodes. Registering LoRaWAN nodes and gateways in the TTS (CE), providing the collected data via MQTT and visualization via Node-RED, Cayenne, Thingspeak, and Datacake enable complex IoT projects and completely new applications at very low cost. This book will enable you to provide and visualize data collected with battery-powered sensors (LoRaWAN nodes) wirelessly on the Internet. You will learn the basics for smart city and IoT applications that enable, for example, the measurement of air quality, water levels, snow depths, the determination of free parking spaces (smart parking), and the intelligent control of street lighting (smart lighting), among others.

Read (+) (–)

Make your project dreams come true: an odometer for the hamster wheel, a fully automatic control of your ant farm with web interface, or the Sandwich-O-Mat – a machine that toasts and grills sandwiches of your choice. With the Arduino and the DIY or Maker movement, not only did entry into microcontroller programming become child's play, but a second development also took place: Resourceful developers brought small boards – so-called shields or modules – to the market, which greatly simplified the use of additional hardware. The small modules contain all the important electronic parts to be connected to the microcontroller with a few plug-in cables, eliminating the need for a fiddly and time-consuming assembly on the plug-in board. In addition, it is also possible to handle tiny components that do not have any connecting legs (so-called SMDs). Projects Discussed Arduino seeks connection BMP and introduction to libraries, I²C Learn I/O basics with the multi-purpose shield I²C LCD adapter and DOT matrix displays LCD keypad shield Level converter W5100: Internet connection I/O expansion shield Relays and solid-state relays The multi-function shield: A universal control unit Connecting an SD card reader via SPI Keys and 7-segment displays 16-bit ADC MCP4725 DAC 16-way PWM servo driver MP3 player GPS data logger using an SD card Touch sensor Joystick SHT31: Temperature and humidity VEML6070 UV-A sensor VL53L0X time-of-flight Ultrasonic distance meter MAX7219-based LED DOT matrix display DS3231 RTC Port expander MCP23017 433 MHz radio MPU-650 gyroscope ADXL345 accelerometer WS2812 RGB LEDs Power supply MQ-xx gas sensors CO2 gas sensor ACS712 current sensor INA219 current sensor L298 motor driver MFRC522 RFID 28BYJ-48 stepper motor TMC2209 silent step stick X9C10x digital potentiometer ST7735 in a color TFT display e-Paper display Bluetooth Geiger counter SIM800L GSM module I²C multiplexer Controller Area Network

Read (+) (–)

For Speed, Area, Power, and Reliability This book teaches the fundamentals of FPGA operation, covering basic CMOS transistor theory to designing digital FPGA chips using LUTs, flip-flops, and embedded memories. Ideal for electrical engineers aiming to design large digital chips using FPGA technology. Discover: The inner workings of FPGA architecture and functionality. Hardware Description Languages (HDL) like Verilog and VHDL. The EDA tool flow for converting HDL source into a functional FPGA chip design. Insider tips for reliable, low power, and high performance FPGA designs. Example designs include: Computer-to-FPGA UART serial communication. An open-source Sump3 logic analyzer implementation. A fully functional graphics controller. What you need: Digilent BASYS3 or similar FPGA eval board with an AMD/Xilinx FPGA. Vivado EDA tool suite (available for download from AMD website free of charge). Project source files available from author’s GitHub site.

Read (+) (–)

From Detector to Software Defined RadioRadio frequency (RF) technology is one of the areas which still allows putting your own ideas into practice. Countless circuit variants with special objectives allow space for meaningful experiments and projects. Many things simply aren’t available off the shelf. Crystal detector radios without their own power source, simple tube receivers with a touch of nostalgia, the first reception attempts at Software Defined Radio, special receivers for amateur radio, all this can be realized with little effort and as a perfect introduction to RF electronics.For a long time, radio construction was the first step into electronics. Meanwhile, there are other ways, especially via computers, microcontrollers, and digital technology. However, the analog roots of electronics are often neglected. Elementary radio technology and easy-to-do experiments are particularly well suited as a learning field for electronics because you can start with the simplest basics here.But the connection to modern digital technology is also obvious, for example, when it comes to modern tuning methods such as PLL and DDS or modern DSP radios.This book aims to give an overview and present a collection of simple RF projects. The author would like to support you to develop your own ideas, to design your own receivers and to test them.

Read (+) (–)

Program and Build Raspberry Pi 5 Based Ham Station Utilities with the RTL-SDR The RTL-SDR devices (V3 and V4) have gained popularity among radio amateurs because of their very low cost and rich features. A basic system may consist of a USB based RTL-SDR device (dongle) with a suitable antenna, a Raspberry Pi 5 computer, a USB based external audio input-output adapter, and software installed on the Raspberry Pi 5 computer. With such a modest setup, it is possible to receive signals from around 24 MHz to over 1.7 GHz. This book is aimed at amateur radio enthusiasts and electronic engineering students, as well as at anyone interested in learning to use the Raspberry Pi 5 to build electronic projects. The book is suitable for both beginners through experienced readers. Some knowledge of the Python programming language is required to understand and eventually modify the projects given in the book. A block diagram, a circuit diagram, and a complete Python program listing is given for each project, alongside a comprehensive description. The following popular RTL-SDR programs are discussed in detail, aided by step-by-step installation guides for practical use on a Raspberry Pi 5: SimpleFM GQRX SDR++ CubicSDR RTL-SDR Server Dump1090 FLDIGI Quick RTL_433 aldo xcwcp GPredict TWCLOCK CQRLOG klog Morse2Ascii PyQSO Welle.io Ham Clock CHIRP xastir qsstv flrig XyGrib FreeDV Qtel (EchoLink) XDX (DX-Cluster) WSJT-X The application of the Python programming language on the latest Raspberry Pi 5 platform precludes the use of the programs in the book from working on older versions of Raspberry Pi computers.

Read (+) (–)

Programming and Projects for the Minima and WiFi Based on the low-cost 8-bit ATmega328P processor, the Arduino Uno R3 board is likely to score as the most popular Arduino family member, and this workhorse has been with us for many years. Eleven years later, the long-overdue successor, the Arduino Uno R4, was released. It is built around a 48 MHz, 32-bit Arm Cortex-M4 microcontroller and provides significantly expanded SRAM and Flash memory. Additionally, a higher-precision ADC and a new DAC are added to the design. The Uno R4 board also supports the CAN Bus with an interface. Two versions of the board are available: Uno R4 Minima, and Uno R4 WiFi. This book is about using these new boards to develop many different and interesting projects with just a handful of parts and external modules. All projects described in the book have been fully tested on the Uno R4 Minima or the Uno R4 WiFi board, as appropriate. The project topics include the reading, control, and driving of many components and modules in the kit as well as on the relevant Uno R4 board, including LEDs 7-segment displays (using timer interrupts) LCDs Sensors RFID Reader 4x4 Keypad Real-time clock (RTC) Joystick 8×8 LED matrix Motors DAC (Digital-to-analog converter) LED matrix WiFi connectivity Serial UART CAN bus Infrared controller and receiver Simulators … all in creative and educational ways with the project operation and associated software explained in great detail.

Read (+) (–)

Getting started with the world’s best open-source PCB tool The latest iteration of KiCad, the world’s best free-to-use Printed Circuit Board tool, is packed with features usually found only in expensive commercial CAD tools. This modern, cross-platform application suite built around schematic and design editors, with auxiliary applications is a stable and mature PCB tool. KiCad 8 is a perfect fit for electronic engineers and makers. Here are the most significant improvements and features in KiCad 8, both over and under the hood: Modern user interface, completely redesigned from earlier versions Improved and customizable electrical and design rule checkers Theme editor allowing you to customize KiCad on your screen Ability to import projects from Eagle, CADSTART, and more Python scripting API Improved integrated SPICE circuit simulator Multi-sheet schematics Filters define selectable elements Enhanced interactive router helps you draw single tracks and differential pairs with precision New or enhanced tools to draw tracks, measure distances, tune track lengths, etc. Advanced interactive router Built-in bill of materials generator Realistic ray-tracing capable 3D viewer Customizable teardrops Plug-in manager for quick installation of themes, libraries and functionalities such as autorouters and BOM generators This book will teach you to use KiCad through a practical approach. It will help you become productive quickly and start designing your own boards. Example projects illustrate the basic features of KiCad, even if you have no prior knowledge of PCB design. The author describes the entire workflow from schematic entry to the intricacies of finalizing the files for PCB production and offers sound guidance on the process. Further full-fledged projects, of incremental difficulty, will be presented in a second book, together with a variety of advanced recipes.

Read (+) (–)

Program and build RPi Pico-based ham station utilities, tools, and instruments Although much classical HF and mobile equipment is still in use by large numbers of amateurs, the use of computers and digital techniques has now become very popular among amateur radio operators. Nowadays, anyone can purchase a €5 Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller board and develop many amateur radio projects using the “Pico” and some external components. This book is aimed at amateur radio enthusiasts, Electronic Engineering students, and anyone interested in learning to use the Raspberry Pi Pico to shape their electronic projects. The book is suitable for beginners in electronics as well as for those with wide experience. Step-by-step installation of the MicroPython programming environment is described. Some knowledge of the Python programming language is helpful to be able to comprehend and modify the projects given in the book. The book introduces the Raspberry Pi Pico and gives examples of many general-purpose, software-only projects that familiarize the reader with the Python programming language. In addition to the software-only projects tailored to the amateur radio operator, Chapter 6 in particular presents over 36 hardware-based projects for “hams”, including: Station mains power on/off control Radio station clock GPS based station geographical coordinates Radio station temperature and humidity Various waveform generation methods using software and hardware (DDS) Frequency counter Voltmeter / ammeter / ohmmeter / capacitance meter RF meter and RF attenuators Morse code exercisers RadioStation Click board Raspberry Pi Pico based FM radio Using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with Raspberry Pi Pico Radio station security with RFID Audio amplifier module with rotary encoder volume control Morse decoder Using the FS1000A TX-RX modules to communicate with Arduino

Read (+) (–)

Practical Guide to Modular RF Design Build Your Own Software-Defined Radio combines RF circuitry with hardware programming and PC-based signal processing. The e-book presents a modular approach to building a complete SDR system using RF Bricks – from the mechanical framework and RF modules to measurement tools, PC software, and FPGA implementations. Practical explanations guide readers through real signal paths, construction steps, and measurement routines, linking hardware and software into a flexible SDR platform. Key topics include: Mechanical setup: RF Brick template, chassis, and 19-inch module carrier Bridges: USB isolator, I²C level shifter, I²C power switch, and practical examples Signal-chain design with RF Bricks: antennas, band filters, NanoVNA work, preamplifiers, PLLs, demodulators, direct-conversion chains, multiband options, and narrowband bricks RF measurement Bricks: single- and dual-tone sources, NPR methods, noise generators, notch filters, broadband amplifiers, and impedance bridges Useful accessories: ATU-100 tuner, X-Phase QRM eliminator, and firmware notes PC host software: SoapyAudio adjustments, GQRX, SDR++, and added functionality GnuRadio elements: control blocks, SSB demodulation, GUI components, messaging, and filter handling FPGA-based SDR: VHDL, toolchains, ADC/DAC blocks, oversampling, and a complete SSB/CW signal chain With its modular structure and detailed working examples, this e-book offers a practical path to building and extending modern SDR systems. Downloads Software

Read (+) (–)

From basics to flows for sensors, automation, motors, MQTT, and cloud services This book is a learning guide and a reference. Use it to learn Node-RED, Raspberry Pi Pico W, and MicroPython, and add these state-of-the-art tools to your technology toolkit. It will introduce you to virtual machines, Docker, and MySQL in support of IoT projects based on Node-RED and the Raspberry Pi Pico W. This book combines several elements into a platform that powers the development of modern Internet of Things applications. These elements are a flow-based server, a WiFi-enabled microcontroller, a high-level programming language, and a deployment technology. Combining these elements gives you the tools you need to create automation systems at any scale. From home automation to industrial automation, this book will help you get started. Node-RED is an open-source flow-based development tool that makes it easy to wire together devices, APIs, and online services. Drag and drop nodes to create a flowchart that turns on your lights at sunset or sends you an email when a sensor detects movement. Raspberry Pi Pico W is a version of the Raspberry Pi Pico with added 802.11n Wi-Fi capability. It is an ideal device for physical computing tasks and an excellent match to the Node-RED. Quick book facts Project-based learning approach. Assumes no prior knowledge of flow-based programming tools. Learn to use essential infrastructure tools in your projects, such as virtual machines, Docker, MySQL and useful web APIs such as Google Sheets and OpenWeatherMap. Dozens of mini-projects supported by photographs, wiring schematics, and source code. Get these from the book GitHub repository. Step-by-step instructions on everything. All experiments are based on the Raspberry Pi Pico W. A Wi-Fi network is required for all projects. Hardware (including the Raspberry Pi Pico W) is available as a kit. Downloads GitHub

Read (+) (–)