As demand for solar panel installation has risen sharply, especially for installations larger than balcony power plants, the order books of solar companies are full. If you ask for a quote today, you may have to wait a while, if your request isn't simply postponed indefinitely. Another consequence of the solar boom is that some companies are charging very high prices for installations. Yet there is an obvious and radical solution to the problem of excessive prices: Do it yourself, as the English say. The price of materials is currently affordable, and it's the ideal time for those who do the work themselves. They couldn't save more. Add to this the satisfaction of doing something useful, both economically and ecologically, and the pleasure of building yourself. In this special issue, you'll find a wide selection of Elektor assemblies, from solar panel controllers to solar water heaters and solar panel orientation systems. The issue also contains practical information on solar panel installation and the technology behind them. Finally, there are a number of articles on the subject of balcony power plants, from how to install them to how to connect them to the Internet... Contents BASICS Dimensioning Photovoltaic Panel ArraysAn introduction to photovoltaic energy and the commonest techniques,followed by simplified calculation models and setup guidelines. Light Sensor TechnologyMeasuring daylight using LEDs. Solar Power Made SimpleSolar charging with and without a controller. Cable Cross-sections and Energy Losses in Solar SystemsKey considerations on the minimum values to respect for electricalcurrent in solar panel cabling. Solar ModulesEverything you always wanted to know about solar panels... Ideal Diode ControllerDiode Circuits with Low Power Dissipation. TIPS Tracking for Solar Modules zBot Solar/Battery Power Supply Solar Cell Array Charger with Regulator Solar Cell Voltage Regulator Solar-Powered Night Light Alternative Solar Battery Charger PROJECTS Energy LoggerMeasuring and Recording Power Consumption. Tiny Solar SupplySunlight In, 3.3 V Out. A Do-It-Yourself DTURead Data from Small Inverters by μC. Solar ChargerPortable energy for people on the move. Solar Thermal Energy RegulatorMaximum power point tracking explored. 2-amp Maximum Power Tracking ChargerSolar Power To The Max. Computer-driven HeliostatFollow the sun or the stars. Garden LightingUsing solar cells. Solar Panel Voltage Converter for IoT DevicesYes we CAN exploit indoor lighting. Travel ChargerFree power in the mountains. Solar Cell Battery Charger/MonitorWith protection against deep discharge. Solar-powered Battery ChargerPIC12C671 avoids overcharging and deep charging. Converters for Photovoltaic PanelsContributed by TME (Transfer MultisortElektronik). Solar Charging RegulatorFor panels up to 53 watts. Solar-Powered ChargerFor lead-acid batteries. CAN Bus + Arduino for Solar PV Cell MonitoringDetect and locate serviceable panels in large arrays. Balcony Power Plant 2.0The latest: solar panels, installation and inverters

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Now you can connect your Arduino boards with the official Arduino USB cable. Through a USB-C to USB-C with a USB-A adapter connection, this data USB cable can easily connect your Arduino boards with your chosen programming device. The Arduino USB cable has a nylon braided jacket in the typical Arduino colors white and teal. The connectors have an aluminum shell that protects your cable from harm at the same time as looking cool. Length: 100 cm Aluminium shell with logo Nylon braided jacket white and teal

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Principles, Design, and Real-World Applications of Modern Photonics Light shapes our world—from the glow of a simple LED to the precision of a laser beam and the immense power of the sun. LEDs, Lasers, and Sunlight – Principles, Design, and Real-World Applications of Modern Photonics is your comprehensive guide to understanding, designing, and applying modern light technologies. This book takes you on a journey from the fundamentals of photonics—covering the nature of light, optical laws, and color theory—to real-world engineering with today’s most important light sources. You’ll explore how LEDs work, how to design efficient lighting systems, and how to tackle practical challenges such as thermal management, power supply design, and optical performance. Beyond illumination, the book opens doors to specialized applications: horticultural lighting for plant growth, infrared and ultraviolet technologies, modern display systems from LCD to MicroLED, and the fascinating world of lasers—from their physics to their use in medicine, industry, and communication. It also connects light engineering to sustainability through solar energy and thermal radiation. Written with a strong practical focus, this book bridges theory and application. Whether you are an engineer, student, or advanced hobbyist, you’ll gain the tools to turn concepts into working solutions—from selecting components to building complete systems. If you want to understand light not just as a phenomenon, but as a powerful engineering tool, this book will illuminate the way.

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The Siglent SDL1020X-E DC Load leads with measurement resolution of 0.1 mV/0.1 mA and the base SDL1000X-E series resolution is 1 mV/1 mA and adjustable current rise times from 0.001 A/μs~2.5 A/μs. For remote communication and control, the SDL series includes S232/USB/LAN interface types. The SDL1020X-E delivers stability over a wide range of applications and can meet all kinds of testing requirements. including: Power, battery/handheld device design, industry, LED lighting, automotive electronics, and aerospace. Features SDL1020X-E (Single channel): DC 150 V/30 A, total power 200 W 4 static modes / Dynamic mode: CC/CV/CR/CP CC Dynamic mode: Continuous, pulsed, toggled CC Dynamic mode: 25 kHz, CP Dynamic mode: 12.5 kHz, CV Dynamic mode: 0.5 Hz Measuring speed of voltage and current: up to 500 kHz Adjustable current rise time range: 0.001 A/us~2.5 A/us Min. readback resolution: 0.1 mV, 0.1 mA Short-circuit, Battery test, CR-LED mode, and factory test functions 4-wire SENSE compensation mode function List function supports editing as many as 100 steps Program function supports 50 groups of steps OCP, OVP, OPP, OTP and LRV protection External analog control Voltage, Current monitoring via 0-10 V 3.5 inch TFT-LCD display, capable of displaying multiple parameters and states simultaneously Built-in RS232/USB/LAN communication interface, USB-GPIB module (optional) Waveform trend chart and easy-to-use file storage and call functions Includes PC software: Supports SCPI, LabView driver Included 1x Siglent SDL1020X-E DC Programmable Load 1x Quick start guide 1x Guarantee Card 1x Power Cord 1x USB Cable Downloads Datasheet Manual Programming Guide PC Software

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The FNIRSI DPS150 is a high-performance adjustable DC power supply that features a USB-C input interface and multiple power supply modes, allowing precise adjustment of output voltage (0-30 V) and current (0-5 A). It provides efficient, low-consumption, and stable output, equipped with multiple safety protection functions including overvoltage, overcurrent, overload, overheating, and reverse connection. It can be flexibly applied to serial connection of multiple devices, with rich and user-friendly display and operation, compact and portable design, meeting various application needs. Features 30 V, 5 A, 150 W variable DC power with 0.01 V, 0.001 A precision, CC/CV modes, and <20 mV ripple to protect sensitive electronics. Supports PC, QC, and DC inputs with programmable outputs and 6 preset voltage/current settings. Compatible with 4 mm banana plugs, U-shaped terminals, and copper wires for various equipment. 8 safety mechanisms including overvoltage, current, short circuit, and overheating protection. 2.8-inch HD IPS screen with 90° flip, numerical and curve displays for easy monitoring. Small, space-saving design for use in labs, repairs, and DIY projects. Specifications Input Voltage 5~32 V DC Input Current 100 mA-5 A Output Voltage 0-30 V Output Current 0~5 A Output Power 0-150 W Input Way PD fast charger QC fast charger Power bank DC power adapters Operating Environment 0-40°C Load Regulation 0.49% Full Load Efficiency 96.30% Display 2.8 inch (320 x 240) Dimensions 106 x 76 x 28 mm Weight 178 g Included 1x DPS150 Power Supply 2x Alligator clip wires (black & red) 1x Micro USB cable 1x Manual Downloads Manual Firmware V0.0.1

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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 Nucleo development board. In the early chapters of the book, the architecture of the Nucleo family is briefly described. Software development tools that can be used with the Nucleo boards such as the Mbed, Keil MDK, TrueSTUDIO, and the System Workbench are described briefly in later Chapters. The book covers many projects using most features of the STM32 Nucleo development boards where the full software listings for Mbed and System Workbench are given for every project. The projects range from simple flashing LEDs to more complex projects using modules and devices such as GPIO, ADC, DAC, I²C, LCD, analog inputs and others. In addition, several projects are given using the Nucleo Expansion Boards, including popular expansion boards such as solid-state relay, MEMS and environmental sensors, DC motor driver, Wi-Fi, and stepper motor driver. These Expansion Boards plug on top of the Nucleo development boards and simplify the task of project development considerably. Features of this book Learn the architecture of the STM32 microcontrollers Learn how to use the Nucleo development board in projects using Mbed and System Workbench Toolchains Learn how to use the Nucleo Expansion Boards with the Nucleo development boards Update The Mbed compiler has been replaced with two software packages: The Mbed Studio and Keil Studio Cloud. Both of these software packages are free of charge and are available on the Internet. If you need assistance using the Keil Studio Cloud, please download the Guide below.

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The Most Iconic Oscilloscopes in Electronics History The 7000 Series was the most iconic family of oscilloscopes in the history of technology. Introduced in 1969 by Tektronix, the sector’s leader at the time, this remarkable line of instruments defined an era and became a benchmark for generations of engineers, researchers, and technicians. Throughout the 1970s and well beyond, 7000-Series oscilloscopes were a constant presence in laboratories, universities, and industrial facilities around the world. Their modular plug-in architecture, exceptional flexibility, and outstanding performance embodied the engineering philosophy that made Tektronix synonymous with accuracy, innovation, and reliability. This book offers an in-depth exploration of the 7000-Series oscilloscopes, combining historical context, technical analysis, and practical insight into their design and restoration. Conceived as a continuation of Tektronix Epic Oscilloscopes, this work expands the subject into two volumes: the first devoted to mainframes and core technologies, the second focused entirely on plug-ins.

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This book is for people who want to understand how AC drives (also known as inverter drives) work and how they are used in industry by showing mainly the practical design and application of drives. The key principles of power electronics are described and presented in a simple way, as are the basics of both DC and AC motors. The different parts of an AC drive are explained, together with the theoretical background and the practical design issues such as cooling and protection. An important part of the book gives details of the features and functions often found in AC drives and gives practical advice on how and where to use these. Also described is future drive technology, including a matrix inverter. The mathematics is kept to an essential minimum. Some basic understanding of mechanical and electrical theory is presumed, and a basic knowledge of single andthree phase AC systems would be useful. Anyone who uses or installs drives, or is just interested in how these powerful electronic products operate and control modern industry, will find this book fascinating and informative.

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OWON VDS1022I 2-channel USB oscilloscope (25 MHz) is a oscilloscope for use with a computer. It is powered by USB and has a small size, making it easy to take it with you. The oscilloscope is very economical. It has a shielded USB connection, reducing interference and protecting the computer against over-voltage. The multi port on the scope can be used for external triggering, trigger out or Pass / Fail output. Features 25 MHz bandwidth, and max 1 GS/s real-time sample rate 10M record length Friendly UI: FFT, or X-Y, and waveform 2 views displayed on the same screen Multi-trigger option: edge, video, slope, pulse, and alternate USB isolation – less signal inference, more PC protection USB bus powering, and LAN remote control (optional) Ultra-thin body design, easy portability Specifications Bandwidth 25 MHz Channel 2+1 (multi) Sample Rate 100 MSa/s Horizontal Scale (s/div) 5 ns/div～100s/div, step by 1～2～5 Record Length 5K Max Input Voltage 400 V (PK - PK) (DC+AC, PK - PK) 40 V (PK - PK) (DC+AC, PK - PK) Vertical Resolution (A/D) 8 bits (2 channels simultaneously) Model VDS1022I Vertical Sensitivity 5 mV/div～5 V/div Trigger Type Edge, Pulse, Video, Slope, and Alternate Trigger Mode Auto, Normal, and Single Acquisition Mode Sample, Peak Detect, and Average Waveform Math ＋, －, ×, ÷, invert, FFT Communication Interface USB 2.0 (isolation) Multi-function Interface Signal Type Level Standard TTL Power Supply 5.0 V/1 A Power Consumption ≤2.5 W Dimensions (W × H × D) 170 x 120 x 18 mm Weight 0.26 kg Included 1x OWON VDS1022I oscilloscope 1x CD-ROM 1x Quick start guide 2x Oscilloscope probe 1x Probe tool 1x Power adapter 1x USB cable 1x Silicone case protectors 1x Power cable Downloads Datasheet User manual SCPI protocol USB driver

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A Practical Guide to AI, Python, and Hardware Projects Welcome to your BeagleY-AI journey! This compact, powerful, and affordable single-board computer is perfect for developers and hobbyists. With its dedicated 4 TOPS AI co-processor and a 1.4 GHz Quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU, the BeagleY-AI is equipped to handle both AI applications and real-time I/O tasks. Powered by the Texas Instruments AM67A processor, it offers DSPs, a 3D graphics unit, and video accelerators. Inside this handbook, you‘ll find over 50 hands-on projects that cover a wide range of topics—from basic circuits with LEDs and sensors to an AI-driven project. Each project is written in Python 3 and includes detailed explanations and full program listings to guide you. Whether you‘re a beginner or more advanced, you can follow these projects as they are or modify them to fit your own creative ideas. Here’s a glimpse of some exciting projects included in this handbook: Morse Code Exerciser with LED or BuzzerType a message and watch it come to life as an LED or buzzer translates your text into Morse code. Ultrasonic Distance MeasurementUse an ultrasonic sensor to measure distances and display the result in real time. Environmental Data Display & VisualizationCollect temperature, pressure, and humidity readings from the BME280 sensor, and display or plot them on a graphical interface. SPI – Voltmeter with ADCLearn how to measure voltage using an external ADC and display the results on your BeagleY-AI. GPS Coordinates DisplayTrack your location with a GPS module and view geographic coordinates on your screen. BeagleY-AI and Raspberry Pi 4 CommunicationDiscover how to make your BeagleY-AI and Raspberry Pi communicate over a serial link and exchange data. AI-Driven Object Detection with TensorFlow LiteSet up and run an object detection model using TensorFlow Lite on the BeagleY-AI platform, with complete hardware and software details provided.

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Program, build, and master over 50 projects with MicroPython and the RP2040 microprocessor The Raspberry Pi Pico is a high-performance microcontroller module designed especially for physical computing. Microcontrollers differ from single-board computers, like the Raspberry Pi 4, in not having an operating system. The Raspberry Pi Pico can be programmed to run a single task very efficiently within real-time control and monitoring applications requiring speed. The ‘Pico’ as we call it, is based on the fast, efficient, and low-cost dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ RP2040 microcontroller chip running at up to 133 MHz and sporting 264 KB of SRAM, and 2 MB of Flash memory. Besides its large memory, the Pico has even more attractive features including a vast number of GPIO pins, and popular interface modules like ADC, SPI, I²C, UART, and PWM. To cap it all, the chip offers fast and accurate timing modules, a hardware debug interface, and an internal temperature sensor. The Raspberry Pi Pico is easily programmed using popular high-level languages such as MicroPython and or C/C++. This book is an introduction to using the Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller in conjunction with the MicroPython programming language. The Thonny development environment (IDE) is used in all the projects described. There are over 50 working and tested projects in the book, covering the following topics: Installing the MicroPython on Raspberry Pi Pico using a Raspberry Pi or a PC Timer interrupts and external interrupts Analogue-to-digital converter (ADC) projects Using the internal temperature sensor and external temperature sensor chips Datalogging projects PWM, UART, I²C, and SPI projects Using Wi-Fi and apps to communicate with smartphones Using Bluetooth and apps to communicate with smartphones Digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) projects All projects given in the book have been fully tested and are working. Only basic programming and electronics experience is required to follow the projects. Brief descriptions, block diagrams, detailed circuit diagrams, and full MicroPython program listings are given for all projects described. Readers can find the program listings on the Elektor web page created to support the book.

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Features Build in USB to Serial interface Build-in PCB antenna Powered by Pineseed BL602 SoC using Pinenut model: 12S stamp 2 MB Flash USB-C connection Suitable to breadboard BIY project On board three color LEDs output Dimensions: 25.4 x 44.0 mm Note: USB cable is not included.

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Projects Using Arduino IDE and the LVGL Graphics Library The ESP32 is probably one of the most popular microcontrollers used by many people, including students, hobbyists, and professional engineers. Its low cost, coupled with rich features makes it a popular device to use in many projects. Recently, a board called the ESP32 Cheap Yellow Display (CYD for short) is available from its manufacturers. The board includes a standard ESP32 microcontroller together with a 320x240 pixel TFT display. Additionally, the board provides several connectors for interfaces such as GPIO, serial port (TX/RX), power and Ground. The inclusion of a TFT display is a real advantage as it enables users to design complex graphics-based projects without resorting to an external LCD or graphics displays. The book describes the basic hardware of the ESP32 CYD board and provides details of its on-board connectors. Many basic, simple, and intermediate-level projects are given in the book based on the ESP32 CYD, using the highly popular Arduino IDE 2.0 integrated development environment. The use of both the basic graphics functions and the use of the popular LVGL graphics library are discussed in the book and projects are given that use both types of approaches. All the projects given in the book have been tested and are working. The block diagram, circuit diagram, and the complete program listings and program descriptions of all the projects are given with explanations. Readers can use the LVGL graphics library to design highly popular eye-catching full-color graphics projects using widgets such as buttons, labels, calendars, keypads, keyboards, message boxes, spinboxes, sliders, charts, tables, menus, bars, switches, drop-down lists, animations, and many more widgets.

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This complete ESP32 microcontroller programming course features a textbook, a component kit, hands-on projects, and a comprehensive online course with simulations. It is ideal for step-by-step learning of embedded systems programming in MicroPython using a practical, hands-on approach. A Practical Introduction to Embedded Systems with the ESP32 This course is designed for people who are new to embedded systems and looking for a structured, example-driven way to get started. A kit of parts comprising LEDs and resistors, switches, sensors and actuators, displays, a breadboard and wires, and more is included. These are used in the course to illustrate example applications. No prior experience with Arduino or embedded development is required. Each section features hands-on examples and mini projects designed to reinforce key concepts and inspire deeper exploration. By the end of the course, you’ll be able not only to reproduce the examples but also to build on them with your own ideas and applications. What Will You Learn? Microcontroller programming in MicroPython with the ESP32 using the Thonny IDE Working with Digital I/O, read buttons and encoders, control LEDs and relays Read analog inputs, voltages, and analog sensors Generating analog output signals and PWM Use serial communication like UART, I²C and SPI to control displays and read digital sensors and SD cards Managing time Working with interrupts Real-time sensor input and control via buttons, LEDs, and displays Control actuators like relays and servo motors Who Is It For? Students and self-learners exploring embedded systems Makers and IoT enthusiasts looking to improve their hardware skills Educators and trainers seeking ready-to-teach material What's Inside the Box? Access to the full course on the Elektor Academy Pro Learning Platform ESP32 microcontroller board + USB cable Book: Programming Microcontrollers in MicroPython Downloadable project files for every module Component Box: 2× LED, red, 5 mm LED, green, 5 mm 3× Resistor, 470 Ω, 0.25 W LDR Potentiometer, 10 kΩ, linear Pushbutton Rotary encoder module Relay module DHT22 Humidity & Temperature Sensor TM1637-compatible 4-digit 7-segment display MPU-6050 IMU with headers SSD1306-compatible I²C OLED display Micro SD card adapter with header Buzzer SG90 Micro Servo ILI9341-compatible SPI 240×320 TFT display 20× Jumper wires Breadboard All Programming Courses (and differences in content) Course Arduino Raspberry Pi Pico with Arduino C/C++ ESP32 with Arduino C/C++ Raspberry Pi Pico with MicroPython ESP32 with MicroPython Online Course Access to Arduino Course Access to Pico with Arduino C/C++ Course Access to ESP32 with Arduino C/C++ Course Access to Pico with MicroPython Course Access to ESP32 with MicroPython Course Board Uno R3 Raspberry Pi Pico ESP32 Raspberry Pi Pico ESP32 Book Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino Programming Microcontrollers in MicroPython Programming Microcontrollers in MicroPython Kit 40-piece Component Box 40-piece Component Box 40-piece Component Box 40-piece Component Box 40-piece Component Box

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The FNIRSI HS-02A is an improved version of the HS-01 soldering iron with a better grip and a shorter tip for more comfort and precision during use. It features a larger 0.96-inch IPS HD color display that allows for better visibility of settings and status. With an output power of 100 W, the HS-02A heats up quickly and reaches operating temperature in about 2 seconds. The temperature is adjustable in a range of 100-450°C (212-842°F) to meet different soldering requirements. Features Temperature: 100-450°C (212-842°F) Accurate temperature adjusting and control Fast heating CNC Metal Shell Adaptive Power 100 W High Power Protocols: PD, QC Specifications Temperature Range 100-450°C (212-842°F) Working Voltage 9-20 V Display 0.96" IPS HD Color Screen Power Supply USB-C Fast Charging Protocols PD / QC Power 100 W (max) Dimensions 180 x 20 mm Weight 61 g Included 1x FNRISI HS-02A Smart soldering iron 6x Soldering iron tips (HS02A-KU, HS02A-K, HS02A-JS, HS02A-I, HS02A-C2, HS02A-B) 1x Mini soldering iron stand 1x Manual Downloads Manual Firmware V1.7

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An Introduction to Real and Reduced-Scale Autonomous Vehicles Want to cut through the hype and get to the core of autonomous and connected vehicles? Then this book is your clear, accessible guide to a complex and fast-moving field. Starting with Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), it walks you through the essential foundations, including Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) – the stepping stones to full autonomy. Explore how self-driving cars mimic human behavior through a loop of perception, analysis, decision, and action. Discover the key functions that make it possible: localization, obstacle detection, driver monitoring, cooperative awareness – and the most challenging of all, trajectory planning, across strategic, tactical, and operational levels. Will vehicles be connected? The debate is on – but the standards are already here. Learn how connectivity, infrastructure, and vehicles can work in synergy through the innovative concept of floating car data (FCD). Dive into real-world implementation: with embedded electronics account-ing for over 30% of a modern vehicle‘s cost, we unpack the architecture, coordination, and tools required to manage the complexity – brought to life with a hands-on case study. To finish, we open the door to the future: building your own 1:10 scale autonomous vehicle. No plug-and-play solutions – just the foundations for a collaborative, creative, and geek-friendly challenge. Let’s drive the future together.

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The author, Johan Basse Bergqvist, is an engineer, a musician, and an audiophile with a knack for building projects that produce the desired results. The combination of these skills leads to a uniquely valuable perspective on audio design that is routinely reflected in the book and passed on to the readers. Several design projects are provided, 40 in total. The designs are explained, and the unique features or methods he uses are described in further detail. Each design includes detailed schematics and a complete parts list. Many of the projects also include layout documentation in the form of CAD photos of the PCB layouts. The range of projects is very diverse and includes something that will appeal to everyone. Stereo amplifiers, guitar and bass amplifiers, preamplifiers for phono, and microphones are all covered. Several variants for each type are included, and the power amplifier designs range from a few watts to several hundred watts, which meet almost any power level you might tackle.

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The intention of this book is to offer the reader understandings, ideas and solutions from the perspective of a workbench technician and electronics hobbyist. It is a descriptive text with many tables of useful data, servicing tips and supplementary notes of not so common knowledge. Today there is a re-emerging, nostalgic interest in vinyl records and associated music entertainment gear. With this interest, there is a paralleled market for the repair of this gear. This ‘hands-on’ servicing guide opens with fundamental considerations of the work space of repair and servicing. This includes a comprehensive discussion of essential test equipment and tools. Two chapters are devoted to obtaining servicing information about repair and obtaining spare parts. A key chapter is on general diagnosis and testing and includes the discussion of resistance, capacitance and inductance. These electrical properties are regularly in the mind of the repairer, so understanding of them is a key objective of this book. The next chapter is about time saving repair techniques and ensuring quality repair. The remaining chapters discuss entertainment equipment itself. Each of the chapters begins with an orderly discussion of the theory of operation and common and not so common problems specific to the equipment. All chapters conclude with a summary.

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There are many so-called 'Arduino compatible' platforms on the market. The ESP8266 – in the form of the WeMos D1 Mini Pro – is one that really stands out. This device includes WiFi Internet access and the option of a flash file system using up to 16 MB of external flash memory. Furthermore, there are ample in/output pins (though only one analogue input), PWM, I²C, and one-wire. Needless to say, you are easily able to construct many small IoT devices! This book contains the following builds: A colourful smart home accessory refrigerator controller 230 V power monitor door lock monitor and some further spin-off devices. All builds are documented together with relevant background information for further study. For your convenience, there is a small PCB for most of the designs; you can also use a perf board. You don’t need to be an expert but the minimum recommended essentials include basic experience with a PC, software, and hardware, including the ability to surf the Internet and assemble PCBs. And of course: A handle was kept on development costs. All custom software for the IoT devices and PCB layouts are available for free download from at Elektor.com.

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As demand for solar panel installation has risen sharply, especially for installations larger than balcony power plants, the order books of solar companies are full. If you ask for a quote today, you may have to wait a while, if your request isn't simply postponed indefinitely. Another consequence of the solar boom is that some companies are charging very high prices for installations. Yet there is an obvious and radical solution to the problem of excessive prices: Do it yourself, as the English say. The price of materials is currently affordable, and it's the ideal time for those who do the work themselves. They couldn't save more. Add to this the satisfaction of doing something useful, both economically and ecologically, and the pleasure of building yourself. In this special issue, you'll find a wide selection of Elektor assemblies, from solar panel controllers to solar water heaters and solar panel orientation systems. The issue also contains practical information on solar panel installation and the technology behind them. Finally, there are a number of articles on the subject of balcony power plants, from how to install them to how to connect them to the Internet... Contents BASICS Dimensioning Photovoltaic Panel ArraysAn introduction to photovoltaic energy and the commonest techniques,followed by simplified calculation models and setup guidelines. Light Sensor TechnologyMeasuring daylight using LEDs. Solar Power Made SimpleSolar charging with and without a controller. Cable Cross-sections and Energy Losses in Solar SystemsKey considerations on the minimum values to respect for electricalcurrent in solar panel cabling. Solar ModulesEverything you always wanted to know about solar panels... Ideal Diode ControllerDiode Circuits with Low Power Dissipation. TIPS Tracking for Solar Modules zBot Solar/Battery Power Supply Solar Cell Array Charger with Regulator Solar Cell Voltage Regulator Solar-Powered Night Light Alternative Solar Battery Charger PROJECTS Energy LoggerMeasuring and Recording Power Consumption. Tiny Solar SupplySunlight In, 3.3 V Out. A Do-It-Yourself DTURead Data from Small Inverters by μC. Solar ChargerPortable energy for people on the move. Solar Thermal Energy RegulatorMaximum power point tracking explored. 2-amp Maximum Power Tracking ChargerSolar Power To The Max. Computer-driven HeliostatFollow the sun or the stars. Garden LightingUsing solar cells. Solar Panel Voltage Converter for IoT DevicesYes we CAN exploit indoor lighting. Travel ChargerFree power in the mountains. Solar Cell Battery Charger/MonitorWith protection against deep discharge. Solar-powered Battery ChargerPIC12C671 avoids overcharging and deep charging. Converters for Photovoltaic PanelsContributed by TME (Transfer MultisortElektronik). Solar Charging RegulatorFor panels up to 53 watts. Solar-Powered ChargerFor lead-acid batteries. CAN Bus + Arduino for Solar PV Cell MonitoringDetect and locate serviceable panels in large arrays. Balcony Power Plant 2.0The latest: solar panels, installation and inverters

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The Andonstar ADSM302 is a versatile digital microscope with an integrated 5-inch LCD display and HDMI output for crystal-clear views in Full HD (1080p). With a 3-megapixel sensor, up to ~560x magnification, and two adjustable LED lights, it reveals the finest details – ideal for PCB inspections, soldering work, jewelry or insect analysis. Features 5" adjustable LCD monitor with adjustable tilt angle High resolution video & photo capture Wide table with comfortable headroom Heavy-weight stable metal stand Tall lifting stand (26 cm) Smooth adjustment wheels for focus and height Buttons on the monitor + remote control AV, USB, HDMI outputs SD card storage <32 GB Specifications Image sensor 3 Megapixels HD Sensor Video output 1080p Full HD (via HDMI)720p (via PC) Video format Real time play via HDMI w/o recordingMJPEG recording via PC/Mac Software Magnification Up to 560 times (HDMI monitor 22") Photo resolution 12M (see pixel formats in following table) Photo format JPEG Focus range 5 to 22 cm Frame rate Up to 30 f/s under 600 Lux Brightness Video-output interface HDMI/AV Storage microSD card, up to 32 GB PC support Windows XP/7/8/10PC software with measurementMacOS successfully tested under OSX with OBSsee video below Power source 5 V DC Light source 2x LED with the stand Screen size 5 inch (12.7 cm) Stand size 20 x 12 x 26.5 cm Resolution Captured Photos 4032 x 3024 3648 x 2736 3264 x 2448 2592 x 1944 2048 x 1536 640 x 480 1920 x 1080 1280 x 960 1280 x 720* Videos 1920 x 1080 640 x 480* * (USB with software) Included 1x Andonstar ADSM302 digital microscope 1x Metal stand with 2 LEDs 1x USB cable 1x HDMI cable 1x Adapter 1x AI remote 1x Instructions Downloads Manual Software

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Valve Amplifiers are regarded by many to be the ne plus ultra when it comes to processing audio signals. The combination of classical technology and modern components has resulted in a revival of the valve amplifier. The use of toraidal-core output transformers, developed by the author over the past 15 years, has contributed to this revival. The most remarkable features of these transformers are their extremely wide frequency ranges and their very low levels of linear and nonlinear distortion. This book explains the whys and wherefores of toroidal output transformers at various technical levels, starting with elementary concepts and culminating in complete mathematical descriptions. In all of this, the interactions of the output valves, transformer and loudspeaker form the central theme. Next come the practical aspects. The schematic diagram of a valve amplifier often appears to be very simple at first glance, but anyone who has built a modern valve amplifier knows that a lot of critical details are hidden behind this apparent simplicity. These are discussed extensively, in connection with designs for amplifiers with output powers ranging from 10 to 100 watts. Finally, the author gives some attention to a number of special valve amplifiers, and to the theory and practice of negative feedback. In summary, this book offers innovative solutions for achieving perfect audio quality. Do-it-yourself builders, as well as persons who want to gain a deeper technical understanding of the complex world of audio transformers, valve amplifiers and audio signal processing, will find this book a rich and useful source of information.

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This complete Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller programming course features a textbook, a component kit, hands-on projects, and a comprehensive online course with simulations. It is ideal for step-by-step learning of embedded systems programming in MicroPython using a practical, hands-on approach. A Practical Introduction to Embedded Systems with the Raspberry Pi Pico This course is designed for people who are new to embedded systems and looking for a structured, example-driven way to get started. A kit of parts comprising LEDs and resistors, switches, sensors and actuators, displays, a breadboard and wires, and more is included. These are used in the course to illustrate example applications. No prior experience with Arduino or embedded development is required. Each section features hands-on examples and mini projects designed to reinforce key concepts and inspire deeper exploration. By the end of the course, you’ll be able not only to reproduce the examples but also to build on them with your own ideas and applications. What Will You Learn? Microcontroller programming in MicroPython with the Raspberry Pi Pico using the Thonny IDE Working with Digital I/O, read buttons and encoders, control LEDs and relays Read analog inputs, voltages, and analog sensors Generating analog output signals and PWM Use serial communication like UART, I²C and SPI to control displays and read digital sensors and SD cards Managing time Working with interrupts Real-time sensor input and control via buttons, LEDs, and displays Control actuators like relays and servo motors Who Is It For? Students and self-learners exploring embedded systems Makers and IoT enthusiasts looking to improve their hardware skills Educators and trainers seeking ready-to-teach material What's Inside the Box? Access to the full course on the Elektor Academy Pro Learning Platform Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller board + USB cable Book: Programming Microcontrollers in MicroPython Downloadable project files for every module Component Box: 2× LED, red, 5 mm LED, green, 5 mm 3× Resistor, 470 Ω, 0.25 W LDR Potentiometer, 10 kΩ, linear Pushbutton Rotary encoder module Relay module DHT22 Humidity & Temperature Sensor TM1637-compatible 4-digit 7-segment display MPU-6050 IMU with headers SSD1306-compatible I²C OLED display Micro SD card adapter with header Buzzer SG90 Micro Servo ILI9341-compatible SPI 240×320 TFT display 20× Jumper wires Breadboard All Programming Courses (and differences in content) Course Arduino Raspberry Pi Pico with Arduino C/C++ ESP32 with Arduino C/C++ Raspberry Pi Pico with MicroPython ESP32 with MicroPython Online Course Access to Arduino Course Access to Pico with Arduino C/C++ Course Access to ESP32 with Arduino C/C++ Course Access to Pico with MicroPython Course Access to ESP32 with MicroPython Course Board Uno R3 Raspberry Pi Pico ESP32 Raspberry Pi Pico ESP32 Book Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino Programming Microcontrollers in MicroPython Programming Microcontrollers in MicroPython Kit 40-piece Component Box 40-piece Component Box 40-piece Component Box 40-piece Component Box 40-piece Component Box

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A Guide to Powerful Programming for Embedded Systems You must be a well-rounded professional to excel in the ever-evolving, rapidly developing embedded design and programming industry. Simply put, when it comes to electronics design and programming, the more topics you can master, the more you’ll flourish at your workplace and at your personal workbench. This shouldn’t be a surprise, as the line between the skills of a hardware engineer and software engineer is blurring. The former should have a good grasp of programming in order to build efficient systems. The latter should understand the details of the design (whether it’s a physical or virtual application) for which he or she is writing code. Thus, to be successful, a modern professional electronics engineer must have a solid grasp of both hardware design and programming. Assembly Language Essentials is a matter-of-fact guide to Assembly that will introduce you to the most fundamental programming language of a processor. Unlike other resources about Assembly that focus exclusively on specific processors and platforms, this book uses the architecture of a fictional processor with its own hardware and instruction set. This enables you to consider the importance of Assembly language without having to deal with predetermined hardware or architectural restrictions. You’ll immediately find this thorough introduction to Assembly to be a valuable resource, whether you know nothing about the language or you have used it before. The only prerequisite is that you have a working knowledge of at least one higher-level programming language, such as C or Java. Assembly Language Essentials is an indispensible resource for electronics engineering professionals, academics, and advanced students looking to enhance their programming skills. The book provides the following, and more: An introduction to Assembly language and its functionality Significant definitions associated with Assembly language, as well as essential terminology pertaining to higher-level programming languages and computer architecture Important algorithms that may be built into high-level languages, but must be done the “hard way” in Assembly language — multiplication, division, and polynomial evaluation A presentation of Interrupt Service Routines with examples A free, downloadable Assembler program for experimenting with Assembly

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