Elektor GREEN and GOLD members can download their digital edition here. Not a member yet? Click here.

Read (+) (–)

Elektor GREEN and GOLD members can download their digital edition here. Not a member yet? Click here.

Read (+) (–)

Practical Projects in Analog, Audio and Beyond Discover a remarkable collection of more than 450 electronics projects published in Elektor Magazine and carefully selected by renowned Elektor Lab engineer Ton Giesberts. The USB drive brings together a wide variety of circuits, designs, and practical project ideas created by numerous Elektor authors and engineers over the years. Covering a broad range of electronics topics, this extensive archive is a valuable source of knowledge and inspiration for engineers, makers, students, and electronics enthusiasts. More than 450 selected Elektor projects Carefully compiled by Elektor engineer Ton Giesberts Ideal for building, experimenting, and discovering new ideas Explore decades of Elektor expertise in one comprehensive project collection. Highlights Q-Watt Audio Power Fortissimo-100 High-End Amplifier Buffer Board for the Raspberry Pi 400 USB-to-Multi-Protocol Serial Converter DDS Function Generator AC/DC Power Meter Charge-a-Phone Specifications Storage 8 GB Connectors 1x USB-A1x USB-C System requirements PC with Adobe Reader 7.0 or higher Web browser

Read (+) (–)

Elektor GREEN and GOLD members can download their digital edition here. Not a member yet? Click here. MultiRF Dev BoardA Platform for Evaluating Short- and Long-Range Wireless Protocols Elektor at 65Disrupting Electronics Since 1961 Wi-Fi-Based Person Detection on an ESP32When Your Router Becomes a Motion Sensor Wireless ScalesFour Small Scales = One Big Scale Walter, the Compact IoT ModuleESP32-S3 SoC, LTE-M/NB-IoT 5G Modem, and GNSS Receiver 3- and 4-Wire RTD Sensors ConditioningWith Full-Scale Adjustment and Cable Compensation 3-in-1 2-Channel Oscilloscope/Generator/MultimeterA Review of The Fnirsi 2D15P electronica Fast Forward 2026 Invites Startups and Industry Partners EcologgingA Modular Environmental IoT Station for Field Research Wireless Connectivity in Medical ApplicationsAlways on the Pulse with Bluetooth LE AudiotronicsHum Reduction Increasing Agricultural Efficiency with AI Modeling and SensorsBoosting Agricultural Productivity OPC UA — An OverviewPlatform-Independent Data Exchange Redox Meter Instrumentation Amplifier for Physics and Engineering Experiments Active Differential Audio FiltersFor Professional Crossovers and More Elektor Community Perspectives on IoT & Sensors Telegram-Controlled Water Heater Interface ModuleA Solution Based on an ESP32 and Arduino Software 2026: An AI OdysseyWhatever Happened to Fuzzy Logic? Err-lectronics Alarm Signal Injector Plus PowerTools for Finding Broken Wires

Read (+) (–)

Elektor GREEN and GOLD members can download their digital edition here. Not a member yet? Click here. MultiRF Dev BoardA Platform for Evaluating Short- and Long-Range Wireless Protocols Elektor at 65Disrupting Electronics Since 1961 Wi-Fi-Based Person Detection on an ESP32When Your Router Becomes a Motion Sensor Wireless ScalesFour Small Scales = One Big Scale Walter, the Compact IoT ModuleESP32-S3 SoC, LTE-M/NB-IoT 5G Modem, and GNSS Receiver 3- and 4-Wire RTD Sensors ConditioningWith Full-Scale Adjustment and Cable Compensation 3-in-1 2-Channel Oscilloscope/Generator/MultimeterA Review of The Fnirsi 2D15P electronica Fast Forward 2026 Invites Startups and Industry Partners EcologgingA Modular Environmental IoT Station for Field Research Wireless Connectivity in Medical ApplicationsAlways on the Pulse with Bluetooth LE AudiotronicsHum Reduction Increasing Agricultural Efficiency with AI Modeling and SensorsBoosting Agricultural Productivity OPC UA — An OverviewPlatform-Independent Data Exchange Redox Meter Instrumentation Amplifier for Physics and Engineering Experiments Active Differential Audio FiltersFor Professional Crossovers and More Elektor Community Perspectives on IoT & Sensors Telegram-Controlled Water Heater Interface ModuleA Solution Based on an ESP32 and Arduino Software 2026: An AI OdysseyWhatever Happened to Fuzzy Logic? Err-lectronics Alarm Signal Injector Plus PowerTools for Finding Broken Wires

Read (+) (–)

Programming with GNU Radio HackRF is an open-source hardware platform developed by Great Scott Gadgets and serves as a versatile front end for software-defined radio (SDR). With HackRF One and its successor, HackRF Pro, users can develop their own SDR applications, build powerful receivers and transmitters, and tackle demanding RF measurement tasks. This book provides a practical introduction to the world of SDR. Step by step, the author shows how powerful SDR projects can be implemented with HackRF – from the fundamentals of RF technology to advanced applications using GNU Radio. In addition to working with SDR Sharp (SDR#), RadioConda, and GNU Radio, the book also covers the fundamentals of modern digital signal processing. Numerous experiments and easy-to-follow practical examples guide readers through topics such as AM, FM, and SSB reception, digital filters, shortwave radio, amateur radio, signal generators, and custom RF projects up to 6 GHz. Whether you are a maker, radio amateur, electronics enthusiast, or SDR beginner, this book provides solid knowledge, practical applications, and the motivation to creatively explore the possibilities of modern SDR technology.

Read (+) (–)

Programming with GNU Radio HackRF is an open-source hardware platform developed by Great Scott Gadgets and serves as a versatile front end for software-defined radio (SDR). With HackRF One and its successor, HackRF Pro, users can develop their own SDR applications, build powerful receivers and transmitters, and tackle demanding RF measurement tasks. This book provides a practical introduction to the world of SDR. Step by step, the author shows how powerful SDR projects can be implemented with HackRF – from the fundamentals of RF technology to advanced applications using GNU Radio. In addition to working with SDR Sharp (SDR#), RadioConda, and GNU Radio, the book also covers the fundamentals of modern digital signal processing. Numerous experiments and easy-to-follow practical examples guide readers through topics such as AM, FM, and SSB reception, digital filters, shortwave radio, amateur radio, signal generators, and custom RF projects up to 6 GHz. Whether you are a maker, radio amateur, electronics enthusiast, or SDR beginner, this book provides solid knowledge, practical applications, and the motivation to creatively explore the possibilities of modern SDR technology.

Read (+) (–)

This bundle contains the AI Fusion Lab Kit – which includes over 450 components – and the book Physical AI with Raspberry Pi, offering a comprehensive, hands-on introduction to AI, electronics, and Python programming. Build practical projects that combine computer vision, voice interaction, sensors, motors, and large language models. The included book guides you step by step from Raspberry Pi setup and hardware control to advanced applications using OpenCV, MediaPipe, YOLO, OpenAI services, and local Ollama models. SunFounder AI Fusion Lab Kit for Raspberry Pi (450+ parts) The AI Fusion Lab Kit transforms a Raspberry Pi into a complete platform for learning artificial intelligence, electronics, and Python programming. It supports Raspberry Pi 5, 4B, 3B+, 3B, and Zero 2 W, as well as popular AI models and services including ChatGPT, Gemini, Grok, DeepSeek, Qwen, Doubao, and Ollama. With its camera, Pan-Tilt HAT, 10-axis sensor module, microphone, speaker, and electronic components, the kit enables users to build interactive AI projects that combine voice, vision, movement, and sensor data. It is suitable for beginners, students, makers, and anyone who wants to explore practical AI applications. Build Multimodal AI Projects Combine large language models with speech recognition, text-to-speech, camera vision, sensors, and breadboard circuits. Create projects that can listen, speak, see, react, and interact with their environment while learning how modern AI systems work. Explore AI Vision and Object Tracking Use YOLO, OpenCV, and MediaPipe to detect and track objects, colors, faces, and human movement. The motorized Pan-Tilt HAT allows the camera to follow targets automatically, demonstrating how computer vision and motion control work together. Voice AI with the Fusion HAT+ The Fusion HAT+ simplifies hardware control through a unified Python library and supports safe Raspberry Pi shutdown. Its integrated microphone and speaker make it easy to develop voice-controlled assistants and other conversational AI applications. Compatible with Raspberry Pi 5, 4B, 3B+, 3B, and Zero 2 W Supports multiple cloud-based and local AI models Includes camera, Pan-Tilt HAT, 10DOF module, microphone, and speaker Projects covering voice AI, computer vision, sensors, and electronics Video lessons, documentation, and sample code Book: Physical AI with Raspberry Pi Using the Raspberry Pi and the AI Fusion Lab Kit, this book takes you step by step from the fundamentals of hardware interfacing to the development of intelligent systems capable of seeing, listening, speaking, and making decisions. Whether you are a student, educator, maker, or professional engineer, you will gain valuable experience through projects designed to build both knowledge and confidence. Beginning with system setup, GPIO programming, sensors, displays, motors, and automation techniques, the book gradually introduces more advanced topics, including speech recognition, text-to-speech synthesis, conversational AI, object recognition, and machine learning. Along the way, you will learn how to create voice-controlled devices, intelligent assistants, camera tracking systems, environmental monitoring solutions, and AI-powered embedded applications. Explore modern technologies such as OpenAI services, Ollama local large language models, OpenCV, MediaPipe, and YOLO object detection while gaining practical experience with real-world applications used in robotics, industrial automation, smart devices, and autonomous systems. You’ll discover how intelligent software can interact with sensors, cameras, motors, and displays to create systems that respond naturally to the world around them. Rather than simply following code examples, you will be encouraged to experiment, customize, and expand every project. The techniques and skills developed throughout this book provide a solid foundation for future innovation, rapid prototyping, research, and product development. If you are ready to move beyond traditional electronics and explore the future of intelligent embedded systems, this book will guide you every step of the way. This bundle contains: SunFounder AI Fusion Lab Kit for Raspberry Pi (normal price: €100) Book: Physical AI with Raspberry Pi (normal price: €45) Not included Raspberry Pi

Read (+) (–)

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.

Read (+) (–)

Elektor GREEN and GOLD members can download their digital edition here. Not a member yet? Click here. PbMonitor v2.0 UpdateBattery Monitoring with Improved Analog Design Audio Latency MeasurementA Standalone Tool for Evaluating Errors and Latency in Audio Transmission Square Wave vs. Bode PlotChecking the Performances of an Audio Device embedded world 2026 Clever Coding with AIAI in Software Development for Electronics Engineers QA403 Audio AnalyzerAffordable Precision for Audio Professionals and Hobbyists EasyGimbalAutonomous Camera Tracking with AI, Stepper and Servo Motors Sigfox Breakout Board (2)Sending Messages Circuit ProtectionControlling Overvoltages with TVS Diodes Emerging Battery Testing ApproachesA New Era of Diagnostics AudiotronicsA First Preamplifier CANopenTermAn Open-Source Tool That Brings CAN to Makers and Engineers Alike Stabilization of Operational AmplifiersAvoiding Feedback Instability Err-lectronicsCorrections, Updates, and Readers’ Letters Signal ConditioningTips and Tricks to Fit Voltage Ranges TDR Attachment for OscilloscopesLength, Short Circuit, Mismatch: Measure Cables Using Reflections! From Life's ExperienceLED It Be Speaker Oscillator and Resonance TesterA Fully Experimental Project for Your Speakers Elektor Community Perspectives on Test and Measurement ESP32 Audio Transceiver Board (Part 5)Audio Processing and Remote Control 2026: An AI OdysseyAI Has a Context Problem Battery Storage for Balcony Power PlantsSmall Batteries, Big Impact

Read (+) (–)

Elektor GREEN and GOLD members can download their digital edition here. Not a member yet? Click here. PbMonitor v2.0 UpdateBattery Monitoring with Improved Analog Design Audio Latency MeasurementA Standalone Tool for Evaluating Errors and Latency in Audio Transmission Square Wave vs. Bode PlotChecking the Performances of an Audio Device embedded world 2026 Clever Coding with AIAI in Software Development for Electronics Engineers QA403 Audio AnalyzerAffordable Precision for Audio Professionals and Hobbyists EasyGimbalAutonomous Camera Tracking with AI, Stepper and Servo Motors Sigfox Breakout Board (2)Sending Messages Circuit ProtectionControlling Overvoltages with TVS Diodes Emerging Battery Testing ApproachesA New Era of Diagnostics AudiotronicsA First Preamplifier CANopenTermAn Open-Source Tool That Brings CAN to Makers and Engineers Alike Stabilization of Operational AmplifiersAvoiding Feedback Instability Err-lectronicsCorrections, Updates, and Readers’ Letters Signal ConditioningTips and Tricks to Fit Voltage Ranges TDR Attachment for OscilloscopesLength, Short Circuit, Mismatch: Measure Cables Using Reflections! From Life's ExperienceLED It Be Speaker Oscillator and Resonance TesterA Fully Experimental Project for Your Speakers Elektor Community Perspectives on Test and Measurement ESP32 Audio Transceiver Board (Part 5)Audio Processing and Remote Control 2026: An AI OdysseyAI Has a Context Problem Battery Storage for Balcony Power PlantsSmall Batteries, Big Impact

Read (+) (–)

Build Smart Applications with Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and ESP32 Discover how easy and exciting mobile app development can be with MIT App Inventor. This hands-on guide takes you from basic concepts to building real-world mobile applications using a simple visual programming approach—no prior coding experience required. You will create IoT and AI-powered apps for Android devices and explore how App Inventor can also be used with iPhones and iPads. Connect your applications to platforms such as Arduino UNO R4 WiFi, ESP32, Raspberry Pi Pico (2)W and Raspberry Pi 5, enabling you to build smart, connected systems. Inside the book, you will learn how to: Build interactive apps using buttons, images, sound, and multimedia Create text-to-speech and speech-recognition applications Develop camera-based and location-aware (GPS) apps Design useful tools such as calculators and educational apps Work with smartphone sensors like accelerometers and light sensors Build AI-powered applications, including voice assistants and image-generation features Send and receive messages, and create communication-based apps Connect mobile apps to hardware using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Control real devices such as LEDs, motors, and sensors Designed for beginners, students, and hobbyists, this book focuses on learning by doing. By the end, you will have the skills and confidence to create your own innovative applications that interact with both the digital and physical worlds. Start building and turning your ideas into reality.

Read (+) (–)

Build Smart Applications with Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and ESP32 Discover how easy and exciting mobile app development can be with MIT App Inventor. This hands-on guide takes you from basic concepts to building real-world mobile applications using a simple visual programming approach—no prior coding experience required. You will create IoT and AI-powered apps for Android devices and explore how App Inventor can also be used with iPhones and iPads. Connect your applications to platforms such as Arduino UNO R4 WiFi, ESP32, Raspberry Pi Pico (2)W and Raspberry Pi 5, enabling you to build smart, connected systems. Inside the book, you will learn how to: Build interactive apps using buttons, images, sound, and multimedia Create text-to-speech and speech-recognition applications Develop camera-based and location-aware (GPS) apps Design useful tools such as calculators and educational apps Work with smartphone sensors like accelerometers and light sensors Build AI-powered applications, including voice assistants and image-generation features Send and receive messages, and create communication-based apps Connect mobile apps to hardware using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Control real devices such as LEDs, motors, and sensors Designed for beginners, students, and hobbyists, this book focuses on learning by doing. By the end, you will have the skills and confidence to create your own innovative applications that interact with both the digital and physical worlds. Start building and turning your ideas into reality.

Read (+) (–)

This hands-on bundle lets you build real Edge AI applications with the Raspberry Pi Raspberry Pi AI HAT+ (13 TOPS) The Raspberry Pi AI HAT+ (13 TOPS) is an expansion board designed for the Raspberry Pi 5, featuring an integrated Hailo AI accelerator. This add-on offers a cost-effective, efficient, and accessible approach to incorporating high-performance AI capabilities, with applications spanning process control, security, home automation, and robotics. The AI HAT+ connects via the Raspberry Pi 5’s PCIe Gen3 interface. When the Raspberry Pi 5 is running a current version of the Raspberry Pi OS, it automatically detects the onboard Hailo accelerator, making the neural processing unit (NPU) available for AI tasks. Additionally, the rpicam-apps camera applications included in Raspberry Pi OS seamlessly support the AI module, automatically using the NPU for compatible post-processing functions. Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 is a compact camera from Raspberry Pi. It offers an IMX708 12-megapixel sensor with HDR, and features phase detection autofocus. Camera Module 3 is available in standard and wide-angle variants, both of which are available with or without an infrared cut filter. Camera Module 3 can be used to take full HD video as well as stills photographs, and features an HDR mode up to 3 megapixels. Its operation is fully supported by the libcamera library, including Camera Module 3’s rapid autofocus feature: this makes it easy for beginners to use, while offering plenty for advanced users. Camera Module 3 is compatible with all Raspberry Pi computers. Book: Edge AI Made Practical – AI Projects for the Raspberry Pi with the AI HAT+ Edge AI is transforming everyday devices by putting intelligence where it matters most: directly inside the hardware. With on-device inference, a camera can recognize a visitor instantly, a phone can translate speech without streaming audio to the cloud, and a wearable can detect anomalies in real time—fast, private, and reliable even when the network disappears. This book is your practical guide to building exactly those kinds of systems with the Raspberry Pi AI HAT+ and the Hailo-8L accelerator. You’ll start with clear foundations: core AI and machine-learning concepts, how neural networks work, and what truly distinguishes Edge AI from cloud AI—plus an honest look at ethical considerations and future impacts. This bundle contains: Book: Edge AI Made Practical Raspberry Pi AI HAT+ (13 TOPS) Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 Active Cooler for Raspberry Pi 5 FPC Display Cable for Raspberry Pi 5 (300 mm) Elektor Component Kit 40-pin GPIO Header Traffic Light Module LED red 5 V with built-in resistor LED yellow 5 V with built-in resistor LED green 5 V with built-in resistor LED blue 5 V with built-in resistor Breadboard (400 Tie-points) 10 Dupont wires male-female DHT22 sensor module Servo motor Required Raspberry Pi 5

Read (+) (–)

This bundle includes the Arduino UNO Q (2 GB) and the book "Arduino UNO Q and AI". The Arduino UNO Q is the first UNO board with a hybrid dual-brain architecture, combining a powerful Linux processor with a real-time microcontroller – bringing advanced computing and precise control together on one board. Powered by a Qualcomm Dragonwing QRB2210 MPU running Debian Linux and a STM32U585 MCU for real-time tasks, the UNO Q is built for next-generation applications. From Edge Computing and AI to robotics and automation, it delivers high performance without sacrificing ease of use. Simply connect your peripherals and get started – no extra hardware required. Features Dual-core architecture: Linux MPU + real-time MCU Qualcomm Dragonwing QRB2210 with Debian Linux support STM32U585 microcontroller for deterministic control Runs Arduino sketches via Zephyr OS Ideal for AI, IoT, robotics, and industrial projects Specifications Microprocessor (MPU) Qualcomm Dragonwing QRB2210:Quad-core Arm Cortex-A53 @ 2.0 GHzAdreno GPU 3D graphics accelerator2× ISP (13 MP + 13 MP or 25 MP) @ 30 fps Microcontroller (MCU) STM32U585Arm Cortex-M33 up to 160 MHz2 MB flash memory786 KB SRAM RAM 2 GB LPDDR4 Power Supply From USB-C connector 5 V max at 3 AInput Voltage (VIN): 7-24 V Storage 16 GB eMMC USB 1× USB-C port with host/device role switching, power role switch and video output Connectivity Wi-Fi 5 (2.4/5 GHz) with onboard antennaBluetooth 5.1 with onboard antenna Interfaces I²C/I³CSPIPWMCANUARTPSSIGPIOJTAGADC Video Video output support via USB-CMIPI DSI pins on JMEDIA header Extra 4× RGB user-controllable LEDs8×13 Blue LED Matrix1× Qwiic connector voltage 3V3, I²C1× User push-buttonJCTL: MPU Remote Debug connector Audio Microphone IN / Headphone OUT / Line OUT on JMISC MPU Operating System Linux Debian OS with upstream support Real-time Operating System Arduino Core on Zephyr OS Containerization Docker and Docker Compose support Support Operating Systems for Arduino App Lab Windows: Windows 10 or later (64-bit)macOS: macOS 11 or later (64-bit)Linux: Ubuntu 22.04 or later, and Debian Trixie (64-bit) Dimensions 68.85 × 53.34 mm (UNO form factor) Downloads Datasheet User Manual Pinout Schematics Book: Arduino UNO Q and AI – Learn to Build Intelligent Embedded Systems Build smarter embedded systems with Arduino UNO Q. This book gives you the tools, knowledge, and confidence to turn ideas into intelligent, working solutions using the Arduino UNO Q platform. Discover how to build intelligent embedded systems with the Arduino UNO Q and AI. Unlock the full potential of the Arduino UNO Q, a next-generation platform that combines the real-time power of the STM32U585 microcontroller with the flexibility of a Qualcomm Dragonwing QRB2210 microprocessor. Learn how to rapidly prototype real-world applications using the Arduino IDE for low-level embedded control and Python in Arduino App Lab for high-level development. Build confidence through hands-on projects that guide you step by step from basic board features to complete working systems. Explore ready-to-use, AI based Arduino App Lab examples and see how they can jump-start your development and reduce time to deployment. Step into the world of Edge AI with a clear, practical introduction to Edge Impulse Studio—no prior AI experience required. Follow a complete, real-world workflow to create a Keyword Spotting AI application, covering data collection, model training, optimization, and on-device inference using the Edge Impulse Studio. Bridge the gap between embedded systems and machine learning and learn how to bring intelligence directly onto your hardware. Perfect for embedded engineers, educators, students, and makers looking to stay ahead in AI-enabled product development. This bundle contains: Arduino UNO Q (2 GB) (normal price: €50) Book: Arduino UNO Q and AI (normal price: €35)

Read (+) (–)

More than 475 Audio Circuits from 30 Years of Elektor This USB Stick contains over 475 different audio circuits from the volumes 1995-2025 of Elektor. The article search feature allows you to search full-text content. The results are always displayed as pre-formatted PDF documents. Highlights Surround-sound decoder Compact amp Sampling rate converter Battery powered preamplifier Titan 2000 amplifier Crescendo Millennium amplifier Audio-DAC/ADC IR-S/PDFI receiver and transmitter High-End Power Amp Hi-fi Wireless Headset Paraphase Tone Control and more… On the Stick you will also find a folder with additional material such as PCB layouts, Gerber files and software. Specifications Storage 16 GB Interfaces 1x USB-A1x USB-C System requirements PC with Adobe Reader 7.0 or higher Web browser

Read (+) (–)

Practical Low-Cost Methods for Reliable PCB Production This book explains how to carry out reliable SMD assembly using affordable tools and small-scale equipment. It follows the complete workflow step by step, including tool selection, solder paste handling, stencil use, component placement, reflow methods, inspection, and rework. The focus is on bench-level and small-lab production rather than industrial assembly lines. It shows practical methods for building single and double-sided SMD boards with repeatable results. Topics include solder paste and flux, temperature profiles, hot air and hotplate techniques, small reflow ovens, inspection methods, and defect correction. Checklists and example workflows are included to help reduce errors and improve consistency. Key features: Tools and supplies for SMD assembly and rework Solder paste types, storage, and handling Stencils and paste application methods Pick and place workflow and component orientation Temperature profiles and reflow methods Hot air, hotplate, and reflow oven processes Inspection and quality control Common defects such as tombstoning and solder bridges Practical rework and component replacement Bench-level professional workflows and checklists This book is designed as a practical bench reference for anyone who wants to assemble and troubleshoot their own SMD boards with reliable results.

Read (+) (–)

Practical Low-Cost Methods for Reliable PCB Production This book explains how to carry out reliable SMD assembly using affordable tools and small-scale equipment. It follows the complete workflow step by step, including tool selection, solder paste handling, stencil use, component placement, reflow methods, inspection, and rework. The focus is on bench-level and small-lab production rather than industrial assembly lines. It shows practical methods for building single and double-sided SMD boards with repeatable results. Topics include solder paste and flux, temperature profiles, hot air and hotplate techniques, small reflow ovens, inspection methods, and defect correction. Checklists and example workflows are included to help reduce errors and improve consistency. Key features: Tools and supplies for SMD assembly and rework Solder paste types, storage, and handling Stencils and paste application methods Pick and place workflow and component orientation Temperature profiles and reflow methods Hot air, hotplate, and reflow oven processes Inspection and quality control Common defects such as tombstoning and solder bridges Practical rework and component replacement Bench-level professional workflows and checklists This book is designed as a practical bench reference for anyone who wants to assemble and troubleshoot their own SMD boards with reliable results.

Read (+) (–)

From SRPP and Mu-Follower to OTL Designs Tube amplifiers suffer from distortion. Fortunately, circuits such as the SRPP amplifier, mu-follower, and beta-follower produce minimal distortion even at output voltages of 50 to 100 Vpeak. These designs are often published with errors. Without a sound understanding of the theory, it is easy to arrive at a flawed design. In the first section of this book, we investigate the origin of distortion, while in the second we investigate the design of and SRPP and a mu-follower. On the internet we can find the most exotic designs. Evaluating them teaches us that these designs often make matters worse rather than better. In the chapter on incorrect SRPPs and mu-followers, we sometimes see bizarre and misguided designs where using a simple single-triode amplifier would perform much better. Push-pull output stages also exist. A great number of them are examined, and their similarity to the SRPP is discussed. This is done especially with the help of the theory behind the OTL based on the ‘mother’ of all OTLs, the Philips HF303. Finally, attention is given to frequency characteristics and technical matters such as the supply voltage and the filament power supply. To illustrate these points, there are a few designs covering the subjects discussed. This book presents much new theory that has not been published before. It is often an eye-opener, showing that many things have a beautiful and unexpected simplicity.

Read (+) (–)

From SRPP and Mu-Follower to OTL Designs Tube amplifiers suffer from distortion. Fortunately, circuits such as the SRPP amplifier, mu-follower, and beta-follower produce minimal distortion even at output voltages of 50 to 100 Vpeak. These designs are often published with errors. Without a sound understanding of the theory, it is easy to arrive at a flawed design. In the first section of this book, we investigate the origin of distortion, while in the second we investigate the design of and SRPP and a mu-follower. On the internet we can find the most exotic designs. Evaluating them teaches us that these designs often make matters worse rather than better. In the chapter on incorrect SRPPs and mu-followers, we sometimes see bizarre and misguided designs where using a simple single-triode amplifier would perform much better. Push-pull output stages also exist. A great number of them are examined, and their similarity to the SRPP is discussed. This is done especially with the help of the theory behind the OTL based on the ‘mother’ of all OTLs, the Philips HF303. Finally, attention is given to frequency characteristics and technical matters such as the supply voltage and the filament power supply. To illustrate these points, there are a few designs covering the subjects discussed. This book presents much new theory that has not been published before. It is often an eye-opener, showing that many things have a beautiful and unexpected simplicity.

Read (+) (–)

The Elektor Zener Diode Tester is essentially a constant-current source that can be switched in steps from 1 to 50 mA. It can be used to test Z-diodes up to a maximum of 54 V. Thanks to a 60-V step-up converter, the device can be powered by the usual 5 to 12 V. The principle of this tester is straightforward. A Z-diode or other DUT (device under test, such as an LED) is biased by an adjustable current source. The voltage across the DUT can be measured with a multimeter. The voltage of most (small) Z-diodes is specified at a current of 5 mA. Depending on the application, the voltage at other currents can also be of interest. That is why six current settings are available: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 mA. LEDs are often specified at a current of 20 mA. What can be tested is: Whether a Z-diode is defective (short circuit or high impedance). Whether a Z-diode exhibits the correct Z-voltage. How a Z-voltage changes with different currents. What exact voltage is present at an integrated voltage reference. Whether LEDs in a series chain differ in brightness (hence the 20 mA current). What the current gain is for different base currents in (power) transistors. The kit contains all parts listed in the bill of materials including PCB and enclosure. Specifications Supply voltage 5…12 V/2 A (USB-C) Supply current (Itest = 50 mA) 1.1 A @ 5 V / 412 mA @ 12 V Selectable currents 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 mA Max. test voltage >54 V @ Itest ≥1 mA Max. output voltage 60 V @ Itest = 0 mA Voltage limit at 5 V 4.5 V @ Itest = 1 mA / 5.18 V @ Itest = 50 mA Enclosure dimensions 110 x 82 x 44 mm PCB size 105.4 x 67.3 mm Connections 4 mm banana sockets for multimeter 2 mm banana sockets for test clips USB-C socket for power supply Included Resistors R1 = 3.3 kΩ, 600 mW, 1% R2 = 0.15 Ω, 1 W, 5%, LS 12.7 mm, ø 3.5 mm R3, R8 = 180 Ω, 600 mW, 1% R4, R6, R16 = 1 kΩ, 600 mW, 1% R5, R19 = 47 kΩ, 600 mW, 1% R7 = 3.9 kΩ, 1 W, 5%, LS 12.7 mm, ø 3.5 mm R9, R10, R12 = 10 kΩ, 600 mW, 1% R11, R13 = 100 Ω, 600 mW 1% R14 = 249 Ω, 600 mW, 1% R15 = 499 Ω, 600 mW, 1% R17 = 2.49 kΩ, 250 mW, 1% R18 = 4.99 kΩ, 250 mW, 1% Capacitors C1 = 470 uF / 35 V, 20%, Ir = 1.86 A, ø 12.5 mm, LS 5 mm, ESR = 0.038 Ω (Panasonic EEUTP1V471) C2 = 1 uF / 100 V, 10%, X7R, LS 5 mm C3 = 2.2 nF / 50 V, 10%, X7R, LS 5 mm C4, C7 = 100 nF / 100 V, 10%, X7R, LS 5 mm C5 = 100 uF / 100 V, 20%, ø 14 mm max., LS 5 mm C6 = 1 nF / 100 V, 10%, X7R, LS 5 mm Inductor L1 = 100 uH, Irms = 2.4 A, Isat = 3.5 A, 0.09 Ω, radial, pitch 2.5/5/10 mm, ø 14 mm max. (Kemet SBC8-101-242) Semiconductors D1 = MUR120G, DO-41 D2, D4 = STPS3150RL, DO-201AD D3 = Z-diode, 18 V, 1.3 W (BZX85C18) D5 = Z-diode, 5.1 V, 0.5 W (1N5231B) LED1 = LED in pushbutton S1 LED2 = LED, green, 3 mm IC1 = MC34063, DIP-8 IC2 = LM4040BIZ-5.0/NOPB, TO-92 (TO-226AA-3) IC3 = TL051CP, DIP-8 T1 = BC327.25, TO-92 T2 = STP40NF10L, TO-220 T3 = IRF9510PBF, TO-220 T4 = 2N7000, TO-92 Others K1, K2, S1, S3 = 2-way screw terminal block, LS 3.5 mm, max. 1.5 mm² connected to K1 = USB-C socket, 30 V/3 A, chassis mounted, wired, 9 x 16 mm connected to K2 = Banana Connector, 2 mm, Socket, 60 VDC, Panel Mount, red (Multicomp 24.102.1) connected to K2 = Banana Connector, 2 mm, Socket, 60 VDC, Panel Mount, black (Multicomp 24.102.2) Test clip, red, 30 VAC/60 VDC (Hirschmann 931467101) Test clip, black, 30 VAC/60 VDC (Hirschmann 931467100) S1 = Pushbutton, panel mount, SPST-NO, 30 DC/100 mA, with red LED S2 = Rotary Switch, 6 position, 2 pole, 30°, 250 V/150 mA S3 = Toggle switch, panel mount, SPDT, solder lugs, 28 VDC T2, T3 = Heat sink, 15°C/W, FK 214 SA-CB Enclosure Hammond 1591XXSSBK, ABS, 110 x 82 x 44 mm Knob for S2, round shaft 6 mm, ø 21 mm, with indicator line (Multicomp CP-LB21-6-6D) 4 x Self-tapping screw #4-1/4", carbon steel, pan head Banana plug, red, 2 mm, 60 VDC (Multicomp 25.205.1) Banana plug, black, 2 mm, 60 VDC (Multicomp 25.205.2) Banana socket, black 4 mm, panel mount Banana socket, red 4 mm, panel mount for LED1, LED2 = Pin header, 1 x 2, vertical, pitch 2.54 mm for LED1, LED2 = Pin socket, 1 x 2, vertical, pitch 2.54 mm for T2, T3 = M3 screw, 10 mm, steel, pan head 2 x M3 washer, plain, steel 4 x M3 nut for IC1, IC3 = DIP-8 socket Wire, black, 0.25 mm² (24 AWG), stranded 14 x 0.15 mm, 1 m Wire, red, 0.25 mm² (24 AWG), stranded 14 x 0.15 mm, 1 m PCB 250772-1 v1.1 Links Elektor Labs

Read (+) (–)

AI in Practice Dive into the fascinating world of robotics and automation! This Elektor Special shows you how to build your own robots with creativity, a little know-how, and affordable technology. From your first DIY project with Arduino or Raspberry Pi to intelligent systems with AI – this issue makes modern robotics understandable and accessible. Discover practical instructions, inspiring projects, and exciting insights into the maker scene. Learn how experimentation, community, and openness give rise to true innovation – and why robotics is so much more than just a technical hobby. Contents Imagination turns into reality Arduino-controlled Drawing Robot GalaxyRVR Mars Rover Kit for Arduino YDLIDAR X4Pro Lidar xHuskyLens AI Camera DOF Robot Arm with Raspberry Pi Pico Manufacturing Robots with Fischertechnik Pneumatic Industrial Robot Why Do We Keep Building Robot Dogs? Elektor Mini-Wheelie Robot Vehicles and Autonomous Driving

Read (+) (–)

AI in Practice Dive into the fascinating world of robotics and automation! This Elektor Special shows you how to build your own robots with creativity, a little know-how, and affordable technology. From your first DIY project with Arduino or Raspberry Pi to intelligent systems with AI – this issue makes modern robotics understandable and accessible. Discover practical instructions, inspiring projects, and exciting insights into the maker scene. Learn how experimentation, community, and openness give rise to true innovation – and why robotics is so much more than just a technical hobby. Contents Imagination turns into reality Arduino-controlled Drawing Robot GalaxyRVR Mars Rover Kit for Arduino YDLIDAR X4Pro Lidar xHuskyLens AI Camera DOF Robot Arm with Raspberry Pi Pico Manufacturing Robots with Fischertechnik Pneumatic Industrial Robot Why Do We Keep Building Robot Dogs? Elektor Mini-Wheelie Robot Vehicles and Autonomous Driving

Read (+) (–)

Elektor GREEN and GOLD members can download their digital edition here. Not a member yet? Click here. PIO Programming on the Raspberry Pi PicoNine Instructions, Many Possibilities Breaking AI Out of the BrowserUsing AI CLIs to Code, Compile, and Validate Embedded Projects The Scrutiny DebuggerDebug, Visualize, and Test Embedded C/C++ Code Sigfox Breakout Board (1)A Self-Built Radio BoB Low-Noise Power Supply (2)Construction, Assembly, and Practical Implementation Simple Signal Generator Using the RP2040Analog and Digital Signals for Around €10 Navigating the Future of Smart Homes with Matter and Edge AIAre Matter’s Latest Updates and the Rise of Edge AI Finally Giving Engineers the Tools to Build the Intelligent, Seamless Smart Homes Users Have Been Promised? Differential Pressure SensorsPredictive Maintenance in HVAC-Systems Security by DesignEngineering Fundamentals Limit Failure Embedded Security Is No Longer Optional CRA and PQC Are Rewriting Embedded Security PrioritiesWhy Even Small IoT and Industrial Firms Need an Upgrade Plan embedded world 2026An Interview With Benedikt Weyerer, Executive Director of embedded world Hands on with I3CUsing Hardware from ST and Microchip The BLEnky ProjectRapid Prototyping of Bluetooth Low Energy Applications Pulse Width ModulationFrom a Simple On/Off Thermostat to a Smoothed DC Analog Signal AudiotronicsEar-Pleasing Electronics for DIY Construction From Life’s ExperienceRead The F...ing Manual! ESP32 Audio Transceiver Board (Part 4)Tuning the Clocks - And a Wired Option 2026: An AI OdysseyThe 2025 Vibe-Coding Hangover Symmetrical DC LoadDC Load, Static or Dynamic, and Symmetrical Counting Faces with MaixCAMAn Easy Way to Capture Audience Sizes

Read (+) (–)