Build Your Own Vintage Radio Broadcaster
The Elektor AM Transmitter Kit allows streaming audio to vintage AM radio receivers. Based on a Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller module, the AM Transmitter can transmit on 32 frequencies in the AM band, from 500 kHz up to 1.6 MHz in 32 steps of approx. 35 kHz.
The frequency is selected with a potentiometer and shown on a 0.96" OLED display. A pushbutton allows toggles the transmitting mode between On and Off. The range of the transmitter depends on the antenna. The onboard antenna provides a range of a few centimeters, requiring the AM Transmitter to be placed close to or inside the radio. An external loop antenna (not included) can be connected to increase the range.
The Elektor AM Transmitter Kit comes as a kit of parts that you must solder to the board yourself.
Features
The board is compatible with a Hammond 1593N enclosure (not included).A 5 VDC power supply with micro-USB connector (e.g., an old phone charger) is needed to power the kit (not included). Current consumption is 100 mA.
The Arduino software (requiring Earle Philhower’s RP2040 Boards Package) for the Elektor AM Transmitter Kit plus more information is available at the Elektor Labs page of this project.
Component List
Resistors
R1, R4 = 100 Ω
R2, R3, R8 = 10 kΩ
R5, R6, R9, R10, R11 = 1 kΩ
R7 = optional (not included)
P1 = potentiometer 100 kΩ, linear
Capacitors
C1 = 22 µF 16V
C2, C4 = 10 nF
C3 = 150 pF
Miscellaneous
K1 = 4×1 pin socket
K2, K3 = 3.5 mm socket
Raspberry Pi Pico
pushbutton, angle mount
0.96" monochrome I²C OLED display
PCB 150292-1
The Elektor Super Servo Tester can control servos and measure servo signals. It can test up to four servo channels at the same time.
The Super Servo Tester comes as a kit. All the parts required to assemble the Super Servo Tester are included in the kit. Assembling the kit requires basic soldering skills. The microcontroller is already programmed.
The Super Servo Tester features two operating modes: Control/Manual and Measure/Inputs.
In Control/Manual mode the Super Servo Tester generates control signals on its outputs for up to four servos or for the flight controller or ESC. The signals are controlled by the four potentiometers.
In Measure/Inputs the Super Servo Tester measures the servo signals connected to its inputs. These signals may come from for instance an ESC, a flight controller, or the receiver or another device. The signals are also routed to the outputs to control the servos or the flight controller or ESC. The results are shown on the display.
Specifications
Operating modes
Control/Manual & Measure/Inputs
Channels
3
Servo signal inputs
4
Servo signal outputs
4
Alarm
Buzzer & LED
Display
0.96' OLED (128 x 32 pixels)
Input voltage on K5
7-12 VDC
Input voltage on K1
5-7.5 VDC
Input current
30 mA (9 VDC on K5, nothing connected to K1 and K2)
Dimensions
113 x 66 x 25 mm
Weight
60 g
Included
Resistors (0.25 W)
R1, R3
1 kΩ, 5%
R2, R4, R5, R6, R7, R9, R10
10 kΩ, 5%
R8
22 Ω, 5%
P1, P2, P3, P4
10 kΩ, lin/B, vertical potentiometer
Capacitors
C1
100 µF 16 V
C2
10 µF 25 V
C3, C4, C7
100 nF
C5, C6
22 pF
Semiconductors
D1
1N5817
D2
LM385Z-2.5
D3
BZX79-C5V1
IC1
7805
IC2
ATmega328P-PU, programmed
LED1
LED, 3 mm, red
T1
2N7000
Miscellaneous
BUZ1
Piezo buzzer with oscillator
K1, K2
2-row, 12-way pinheader, 90°
K5
Barrel jack
K4
1-row, 4-way pin socket
K3
2-row, 6-way boxed pinheader
S1
Slide switch DPDT
S2
Slide switch SPDT
X1
Crystal, 16 MHz
28-way DIP socket for IC2
Elektor PCB
OLED display, 0.96', 128 x 32 pixels, 4-pin I²C interface
Links
Elektor Magazine
Elektor Labs
The DIY Mini Digital Oscilloscope Kit (with shell) is an easy-to-build kit for a tiny digital oscilloscope. Besides the power switch, it has only one other control, a rotary encoder with a built-in pushbutton. The kit's microcontroller comes preprogrammed. The 0.96" OLED display has a resolution of 128 x 64 pixels. The oscilloscope features one channel that can measure signals up to 100 kHz. The maximum input voltage is 30 V, the minimum voltage is 0 V.
The kit consists of through-hole components (THT) are surface-mount devices (SMD). Therefore, assembling the kit means soldering SMD parts, which requires some soldering experience.
Specifications
Vertical range: 0 to 30 V
Horizontal range: 100 µs to 500 ms
Trigger type: auto, normal and single
Trigger edge: rising and falling
Trigger level: 0 to 30 V
Run/Stop mode
Automatic frequency measurement
Power: 5 V micro-USB
10 Hz, 5 V sinewave output
9 kHz, 0 to 4.8 V square wave output
Display: 0.96-inch OLED screen
Dimensions: 57 x 38 x 26 mm
Downloads
Documentation
The Arduino Student Kit is a hands-on, step-by-step remote learning tool for ages 11+: get started with the basics of electronics, programming, and coding at home. No prior knowledge or experience is necessary as the kit guides you through step by step. Educators can teach their class remotely using the kits, and parents can use the kit as a homeschool tool for their child to learn at their own pace. Everyone will gain confidence in programming and electronics with guided lessons and open experimentation.
Learn the basics of programming, coding and electronics including current, voltage, and digital logic. No prior knowledge or experience is necessary as the kit guides you through step by step.
You’ll get all the hardware and software you need for one person, making it ideal to use for remote teaching, homeschooling, and for self-learning. There are step-by-step lessons, exercises, and for a complete and in-depth experience, there’s also extra content including invention spotlights, concepts, and interesting facts about electronics, technology, and programming.
Lessons and projects can be paced according to individual abilities, allowing them to learn from home at their own level. The kit can also be integrated into different subjects such as physics, chemistry, and even history. In fact, there’s enough content for an entire semester.
How educators can use the kit for remote teaching
The online platform contains all the content you need to teach remotely: exclusive learning guidance content, tips for remote learning, nine 90-minute lessons, and two open-ended projects. Each lesson builds off the previous one, providing a further opportunity to apply the skills and concepts students have already learned. They also get a logbook to complete as they work through the lessons.
The beginning of each lesson provides an overview, estimated completion times, and learning objectives. Throughout each lesson, there are tips and information that will help to make the learning experience easier. Key answers and extension ideas are also provided.
How the kit helps parents homeschool their children
This is your hands-on, step-by-step remote learning tool that will help your child learn the basics of programming, coding, and electronics at home. As a parent, you don’t need any prior knowledge or experience as you are guided through step-by-step. The kit is linked directly into the curriculum so you can be confident that your children are learning what they should be, and it provides the opportunity for them to become confident in programming and electronics. You’ll also be helping them learn vital skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving.
Self-learning with the Arduino Student Kit
Students can use this kit to teach themselves the basics of electronics, programming, and coding. As all the lessons follow step-by-step instructions, it’s easy for them to work their way through and learn on their own. They can work at their own pace, have fun with all the real-world projects, and increase their confidence as they go. They don’t need any previous knowledge as everything is clearly explained, coding is pre-written, and there’s a vocabulary of concepts to refer to.
The Arduino Student Kit comes with several parts and components that will be used to build circuits while completing the lessons and projects throughout the course.
Included in the kit
Access code to exclusive online content including learning guidance notes, step-by-step lessons and extra materials such as resources, invention spotlights and a digital logbook with solutions.
1x Arduino Uno
1x USB cable
1x Board mounting base
1x Multimeter
1x 9 V battery snap
1x 9 V battery
20x LEDs (5x red, 5x green, 5x yellow & 5x blue )
5x Resistors 560 Ω
5x Resistors 220 Ω
1x Breadboard 400 points
1x Resistor 1 kΩ
1x Resistor 10 kΩ
1x Small Servo motor
2x Potentiometers 10 kΩ
2x Knob potentiometers
2x Capacitors 100 uF
Solid core jumper wires
5x Pushbuttons
1x Phototransistor
2x Resistors 4.7 kΩ
1x Jumper wire black
1x Jumper wire red
1x Temperature sensor
1x Piezo
1x Jumper wire female to male red
1x Jumper wire female to male black
3x Nuts and Bolts
The Smart USB Soldering Iron Kit is a compact, cordless solution designed for precision and portability. Featuring intelligent three-speed temperature control (300-450°C) with an easy-to-read LED display, it heats up in just 10 seconds and melts solder in as little as 6 seconds.
The 1000 mAh rechargeable battery delivers up to 30 minutes of continuous use, making it ideal for quick repairs, electronics projects, and DIY tasks. With a plug-and-play, replaceable tip and a high-temperature-resistant insulated shell, it’s safe, user-friendly, and perfect for both beginners and professionals on the go.
Features
Three-Speed Intelligent Temperature Adjustment: Features an LED display screen with adjustable temperatures between 300-450°C (572-842°F). Easily switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit.
Integrated Plug-In Soldering Iron Tip: Plug-and-play design. The tip can be replaced by simply unscrewing it, ensuring quick and convenient operation.
Safe and Durable Design: High-temperature-resistant, insulated shell for enhanced safety during use.
Battery Capacity: Equipped with a rechargeable 1000 mAh battery that supports up to 30 minutes of continuous operation on a full charge – ideal for everyday tasks.
Efficient Performance: 8 W power with an integrated heating core for rapid heat-up. Melts tin in just 6 seconds, providing excellent thermal conductivity.
Easy to Use: After powering on via USB, set your desired temperature. The soldering iron heats up in 10 seconds. Once finished, place the tip on the stand—it cools down within 1 minute. Perfect for beginners, hobbyists, basic home repairs, and training engineers.
Cordless Innovation: This cordless soldering kit includes a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, eliminating the need for cables. Versatile use for circuit board soldering, electrical repairs, jewelry making, metal crafts, computer maintenance, and DIY projects.
Specifications
Adjustable Temperature: 300-450°C (572-842°F)
Tin Melting Time: <15 seconds
Working Voltage: 5 V
Power Output: 8 W
Battery Capacity: 1000 mAh
Auto Sleep Function: Activates after 10 minutes of inactivity
Charging Time: Approx. 90 minutes
Battery Life: Up to 30 minutes continuous use
Charging Interface: USB-C
Main Material: Aluminum alloy
Dimensions: 190 x 16 mm (7.4 x 0.6")
Included
1x USB Soldering Iron
1x Soldering Tip
1x Soldering Rosin
1x Soldering Iron Holder (with Sponge)
1x USB-C Charging Cable
1x Solder Wire
1x Storage Box
This hardware kit is especially prepared for 'The Official ESP32 Book'. The kit contains all the components used in the projects in this book. With the help of this hardware kit it should be easy and fun to build the projects in the book.
Included
1x ESP32 DevKitC
8x LEDs (RED)
1x LED (GREEN)
2x push-button
8x 330 ohm resistors
1x Buzzer
1x RGB LED
1x TMP36 temperature sensor chip
1x DHT11 temperature and humidity chip
1x MCP23017 (DIL 28 package)
1x LDR
1x BC108 (or any other PNP) transistor
1x 7 segment LED
1x Small Microphone Module
1x I²C LCD
1x SG90 servo
1x 4x4 Keypad
8x Female-Male jumpers
4x Male-Male jumpers
1x Small breadboard
The Elektor Laser Head transforms the Elektor Sand Clock into a clock that writes the time on glow-in-the-dark film instead of sand. In addition to displaying the time, it can also be used to create ephemeral drawings. The 5 mW laser pointer, with a wavelength of 405 nm, produces bright green drawings on the glow-in-the-dark film. For best results, use the kit in a dimly lit room. Warning: Never look directly into the laser beam!
The kit includes all the necessary components, but soldering three wires is required.
Note: This kit is also compatible with the original Arduino-based Sand Clock from 2017. For more details, see Elektor Magazine 1-2/2017 and Elektor Magazine 1-2/2018.
Your gateway to IoT and microcontroller programming
With 450+ components and 117 online projects, this comprehensive kit ignites your creativity. The tutorials by Paul McWhorter make learning enjoyable for beginners and advanced users. This kit supports MicroPython, C/C++, and Piper Make, offering diverse programming options.
Explore sensors, actuators, LEDs, and LCDs for endless project possibilities. From home automation to robotics, this kit empowers your tech journey.
Features
IoT Starter Kit for Beginners: This kit offers a rich IoT learning experience for beginners. With 450+ components, 117 projects, and expert-led video lessons, this kit makes learning microcontroller programming and IoT engaging and accessible.
Expert-Guided Video Lessons: The kit includes 27 video tutorials by the renowned educator, Paul McWhorter. His engaging style simplifies complex concepts, ensuring an effective learning experience in microcontroller programming.
Wide Range of Hardware: The kit includes a diverse array of components like sensors, actuators, LEDs, LCDs, and more, enabling you to experiment and create a variety of projects with the Raspberry Pi Pico W.
Supports Multiple Languages: The kit offers versatility with support for three programming languages - MicroPython, C/C++, and Piper Make, providing a diverse programming learning experience.
Dedicated Support: Benefit from our ongoing assistance, including a community forum and timely technical help for a seamless learning experience.
Included
Raspberry Pi Pico W
Breadboard
Jumper Wires
Resistor
Transistor
Capacitor
Diode
Li-po Charger Module
74HC595
TA6586 – Motor Driver Chip
LED
RGB LED
LED Bar Graph
7-segment Display
4-Digit 7-Segment Display
LED Dot Matrix
I²C LCD1602
WS2812 RGB 8 LEDs Strip
Buzzer
DC Motor
Servo
DC Water Pump
Relay
Button
Micro Switch
Slide Switch
Potentiometer
Infrared Receiver
Joystick Module
4x4 Keypad
MPR121 Module
MFRC522 Module
Photoresistor
Thermistor
Tilt Switch
Reed Switch
PIR Motion Sensor Module
Water Level Sensor Module
Ultrasonic Module
DHT11 Humiture Sensor
MPU6050 Module
Documentation
Online Tutorials in 3 languages (EN, DE and JP)
The ICL8038 signal generator delivers versatile waveforms, including sine, triangle, square, and forward/reverse sawtooth, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Powered by the ICL8038 chip and high-speed operational amplifiers, it ensures exceptional precision and signal stability.
With a frequency range of 5 Hz to 400 kHz, it supports applications from audio to radio frequencies. Its adjustable duty cycle, ranging from 2% to 95%, allows for precise waveform customization to meet various needs.
The DIY kit is beginner-friendly, featuring through-hole components for easy assembly. It includes all necessary parts, an acrylic shell, and a detailed manual, providing everything required to build and use the signal generator efficiently.
Specifications
Frequency range
5 Hz~400 KHz (adjustable)
Power supply voltage
12 V~15 V
Duty cycle range
2~95% (adjustable)
Low distortion sine wave
1%
Low temperature drift
50 ppm/°C
Output triangular wave linearity
0.1%
DC bias range
−7.5 V~7.5 V
Output amplitude range
0.1 V~11 VPP (working voltage 12 V)
Dimensions
89 x 60 x 35 mm
Weight
81 g
Included
PCB incl. all necessary components
Acrylic shell
Manual
This RC522 RFID Kit includes a 13.56 MHz RF reader module that uses an RC522 IC and two S50 RFID cards to help you learn and add the 13.56 MHz RF transition to your project. The MF RC522 is a highly integrated transmission module for contactless communication at 13.56 MHz. RC522 supports ISO 14443A/MIFARE mode. The module uses SPI to communicate with microcontrollers. The open-hardware community already has a lot of projects exploiting the RC522 – RFID Communication, using Arduino. Features Operating Current: 13-26 mA/DC 3.3 V Idle Current: 10-13 mA/DC 3.3 V Sleep Current: <80 uA Peak Current: <30 mA Operating Frequency: 13.56 MHz Supported card types: mifare1 S50, mifare1 S70 MIFARE Ultralight, Mifare Pro, MIFARE DESFire Environmental Operating Temperature: -20-80 degrees Celsius Environmental Storage Temperature: -40-85 degrees Celsius Relative humidity: relative humidity 5% -95% Reader Distance: ≥50 mm/1.95' (Mifare 1) Module Size: 40×60 mm/1.57*2.34' Module interfaces SPI Parameter Data transfer rate: maximum 10 Mbit/s Included 1x RFID-RC522 Module 1x Standard S50 Blank Card 1x S50 special-shaped card (as shown by the keyring shape) 1x Straight Pin 1x Curved Pin Downloads Arduino Library MFRC522 Datasheet MFRC522_ANT Mifare S50
The Elektor ESP32 Energy Meter is a device designed for real-time energy monitoring and smart home integration. Powered by the ESP32-S3 microcontroller, it offers robust performance with modular and scalable features.
The device uses a 220 V-to-12 V step-down transformer for voltage sampling, ensuring galvanic isolation and safety. Its compact PCB layout includes screw-type terminal blocks for secure connections, a Qwiic connector for additional sensors, and a programming header for direct ESP32-S3 configuration. The energy meter is compatible with single-phase and three-phase systems, making it adaptable for various applications.
The energy meter is simple to set up and integrates with Home Assistant, offering real-time monitoring, historical analytics, and automation capabilities. It provides accurate measurements of voltage, current, and power, making it a valuable tool for energy management in homes and businesses.
Features
Comprehensive Energy Monitoring: Get detailed insights into your energy usage for smarter management and cost savings.
Customizable Software: Tailor functionality to your needs by programming and integrating custom sensors.
Smart Home Ready: Compatible with ESPHome, Home Assistant, and MQTT for full Smart Home integration.
Safe & Flexible Design: Operates with a 220 V-to-12 V step-down transformer and features a pre-assembled SMD board.
Quick Start: Includes one Current Transformer (CT) sensor and access to free setup resources.
Specifications
Microcontroller
ESP32-S3-WROOM-1-N8R2
Energy Metering IC
ATM90E32AS
Status Indicators
4x LEDs for power consumption indication2x Programmable LEDs for custom status notifications
User Input
2x Push buttons for user control
Display Output
I²C OLED display for real-time power consumption visualization
Input Voltage
110/220 V AC (via step-down transformer)
Input Power
12 V (via step-down transformer or DC input)
Clamp Current Sensor
YHDC SCT013-000 (100 A/50 mA) included
Smart Home Integration
ESPHome, Home Assistant, and MQTT for seamless connectivity
Connectivity
Header for programming, Qwiic for sensor expansion
Applications
Supports single-phase and three-phase energy monitoring systems
Dimensions
79.5 x 79.5 mm
Included
1x Partly assembled board (SMDs are pre-mounted)
2x Screw terminal block connerctors (not mounted)
1x YHDC SCT013-000 current transformer
Required
Power transformer not included
Downloads
Datasheet (ESP32-S3-WROOM-1)
Datasheet (ATM90E32AS)
Datasheet (SCT013-000)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
From Prototype to Finished Product
What started as an innovative project to create a reliable and user-friendly energy meter using the ESP32-S3 microcontroller has evolved into a robust product. Initially developed as an open-source project, the ESP32 Energy Meter aimed to provide precise energy monitoring, smart home integration and more. Through meticulous hardware and firmware development, the energy meter now stands as a compact, versatile solution for energy management.
A Retro Roll with a Neon Soul
LED-based dice are common, but their light is cold. Not so for this electronic neon dice, which displays its value with the warm glow of neon lamps. It is perfect for playing games on cold, dark winter evenings. The pips of the dice are neon lamps and the random number generator has six neon lamps to show that it is working.
Even though the dice has an on-board 100-V power supply, it is completely safe. As with all Elektor Classic products, the dice too has its circuit diagram printed on the front while an explanation of how the circuit works can be found on the rear side.
The Neon Lamp Dice comes as a kit of easy-to-solder through-hole parts. The power supply is a 9-V battery (not included).
Features
Warm Vintage Glow
Elektor Heritage Circuit Symbols
Tried & Tested by Elektor Labs
Educational & Geeky Project
Through-Hole Parts Only
Included
Printed Circuit Board
All Components
Wooden Stand
Required
9 V battery
Component List
Resistors (THT, 150 V, 0.25 W)
R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R14 = 1 MΩ
R7, R8, R9, R10, R11, R12 = 18 kΩ
R13, R15, R16, R17, R18, R21, R23, R24, R25, R26, R28, R30, R33 = 100 kΩ
R32, R34 = 1.2 kΩ
R19, R20, R22, R27, R29 = 4.7 kΩ
R31 = 1 Ω
Capacitors
C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6 = 470 nF, 50 V, 5 mm pitch
C7, C9, C11, C12 = 1 µF, 16 V, 2 mm pitch
C8 = 470 pF, 50 V, 5 mm pitch
C10 = 1 µF, 250 V, 2.5 mm pitch
Inductors
L1 = 470 µH
Semiconductors
D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7 = 1N4148
D8 = STPS1150
IC1 = NE555
IC2 = 74HC374
IC3 = MC34063
IC4 = 78L05
T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 = MPSA42
T6 = STQ2LN60K3-AP
Miscellaneous
K1 = PP3 9 V battery holder
NE1, NE2, NE3, NE4, NE5, NE6, NE7, NE8, NE9, NE10, NE11, NE12, NE13 = neon light
S2 = Miniature slide switch
S1 = Pushbutton (12 x 12 mm)