The Peak Atlas DCA55 is great for automatically identifying the type of semiconductor on the test leads as well as the pinout and many other parameters.
Supports transistors MOSFETs, JFETs (gate pin only can be identified), diodes, LEDs and lots more. Automatically identifies type of component, pinout and other important parameters. Now features transistor leakage measurement and Germanium/Silicon identification.
Component Support
Bipolar transistors (NPN/PNP inc Silicon/Germanium)
Darlington transistors (NPN/PNP)
Enhancement mode MOSFETs (N-Ch and P-Ch)
Depletion mode MOSFETs (N-Ch and P-Ch)
Junction FETs (N-Ch and P-Ch). Only gate lead identified
Diodes and diode networks (2 and 3 lead types)
LEDs and bi-colour LEDs (2 lead and 3 lead types)
Low power sensitive Triacs and Thyristors (<5 mA trigger and hold)
Measurements
Part type identification
Pinout identification
BJT current gain (hFE)
BJT base emitter voltage (Vbe)
BJT collector leakage current
MOSFET gate threshold voltage
Diode forward voltage drop (Vf)
Specifications
Analyzer type
Transistors, Diodes, LEDs, MOSFETs, JFETs
Pinout detection
Full pinout (only Gate on JFETs)
Pinout configuration
Connect any way round
Transistor measurements
Vbe, hFE, Iceo
MOSFET measurements
Vgs(on)
Diode measurements
Vf
Probe type
Universal grabber type
Battery
Single AAA cell (supplied). Life typically 1300 ops
Test conditions
Typically 5 mA, 5 V peak
Display type
Alphanumeric LCD (with backlight)
Included
Peak Atlas DCA55 Semiconductor Analyzer
Comprehensive illustrated user guide
Fitted universal hook probes
AAA Alkaline battery
Downloads
Datasheet (EN)
User Guide (EN)
User Guide (IT)
For Raspberry Pi, ESP32 and nRF52 with Python, Arduino and Zephyr
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio chips are ubiquitous from Raspberry Pi to light bulbs. BLE is an elaborate technology with a comprehensive specification, but the basics are quite accessible.
A progressive and systematic approach will lead you far in mastering this wireless communication technique, which is essential for working in low power scenarios.
In this book, you’ll learn how to:
Discover BLE devices in the neighborhood by listening to their advertisements.
Create your own BLE devices advertising data.
Connect to BLE devices such as heart rate monitors and proximity reporters.
Create secure connections to BLE devices with encryption and authentication.
Understand BLE service and profile specifications and implement them.
Reverse engineer a BLE device with a proprietary implementation and control it with your own software.
Make your BLE devices use as little power as possible.
This book shows you the ropes of BLE programming with Python and the Bleak library on a Raspberry Pi or PC, with C++ and NimBLE-Arduino on Espressif’s ESP32 development boards, and with C on one of the development boards supported by the Zephyr real-time operating system, such as Nordic Semiconductor's nRF52 boards.
Starting with a very little amount of theory, you’ll develop code right from the beginning. After you’ve completed this book, you’ll know enough to create your own BLE applications.
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.
For Raspberry Pi, ESP32 and nRF52 with Python, Arduino and Zephyr Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio chips are ubiquitous from Raspberry Pi to light bulbs. BLE is an elaborate technology with a comprehensive specification, but the basics are quite accessible. A progressive and systematic approach will lead you far in mastering this wireless communication technique, which is essential for working in low power scenarios. In this book, you’ll learn how to: Discover BLE devices in the neighborhood by listening to their advertisements. Create your own BLE devices advertising data. Connect to BLE devices such as heart rate monitors and proximity reporters. Create secure connections to BLE devices with encryption and authentication. Understand BLE service and profile specifications and implement them. Reverse engineer a BLE device with a proprietary implementation and control it with your own software. Make your BLE devices use as little power as possible. This book shows you the ropes of BLE programming with Python and the Bleak library on a Raspberry Pi or PC, with C++ and NimBLE-Arduino on Espressif’s ESP32 development boards, and with C on one of the development boards supported by the Zephyr real-time operating system, such as Nordic Semiconductor's nRF52 boards. Starting with a very little amount of theory, you’ll develop code right from the beginning. After you’ve completed this book, you’ll know enough to create your own BLE applications.
The flexibility of the Artemis module starts with SparkFun's Arduino core. You can program and use the Artemis module just like you would an Uno or any other Arduino. The time to first blink is just 5 minutes away! We built the core from the ground up, making it fast and as lightweight as possible.
Next is the module itself. Measuring 10 x 15 mm, the Artemis module has all the support circuitry you need to use the fantastic Ambiq Apollo3 processor in your next project. We're proud to say the SparkFun Artemis module is the first open-source hardware module with the design files freely and easily available. We've carefully designed the module so that implementing Artemis into your design can be done with low-cost 2-layer PCBs and 8mil trace/space.
Made in the USA at SparkFun's Boulder production line, the Artemis module is designed for consumer-grade products. This truly differentiates the Artemis from its Arduino brethren. Ready to scale your product? The Artemis will grow with you beyond the Uno footprint and Arduino IDE. Additionally, the Artemis has an advanced HAL (hardware abstraction layer), allowing users to push the modern Cortex-M4F architecture to its limit.
The SparkFun Artemis Module is fully FCC/IC/CE certified and is available in full tape and reel quantities. With 1M flash and 384k RAM, you'll have plenty of room for your code. The Artemis module runs at 48MHz with a 96MHz turbo mode available and with Bluetooth to boot!
The BSIDE U0 digital clamp meter multimeter is a versatile tool designed for measuring AC current, AC/DC voltage, and resistance with high accuracy. Equipped with features like an on/off buzzer, alarm alert, automatic shutdown, and V-alert detection, it ensures user safety and ease of operation. Compact, precise, and user-friendly, it’s an ideal troubleshooting tool for quickly and safely addressing electrical issues in vehicles, industrial settings, and home environments.
This multimeter is widely used across various fields, including electric power, telecommunications, railways, construction, oil and gas, metering, scientific research, education, as well as industrial and mining enterprises.
Specifications
Function
Range
Accuracy
DC Voltage
0.800~610 V
±(0.8%+3)
AC Voltage
0.800~610 V
±(1.0%+3)
AC Current
1~100 A
±(2.5%+5)
DC Current
1~100 A
±(2.5%+5)
Resistance
5~40 MΩ
±(1.2%+3)
Display
4000 Counts
Battery
Built-in 3.7 V 4000 mAh Lithium battery
Automatic Shutdown
After 15 minutes of inactivity
LED Light
Yes
Dimensions
192 x 36 x 30 mm
Weight
100 g
Included
1x BSIDE U0 Clamp Meter
2x Test leads
1x USB cable
1x Manual
Recently, the development of a tiny chip called the ESP8266 has made it possible to interface any type of microcontroller to a Wi-Fi AP. The ESP8266 is a low-cost tiny Wi-Fi chip having fully built-in TCP/IP stack and a 32-bit microcontroller unit. This chip, produced by Shanghai based Chinese manufacturer Espressif System, is IEEE 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi compatible with on-chip program and data memory, and general purpose input-output ports. Several manufacturers have incorporated the ESP8266 chip in their hardware products (e.g. ESP-xx, NodeMCU etc) and offer these products as a means of connecting a microcontroller system such as the Android, PIC microcontroller or others to a Wi-Fi. The ESP8266 is a low-power chip and costs only a few Dollars.
ESP8266 and MicroPython – Coding Cool Stuff is an introduction to the ESP8266 chip and describes the features of this chip and shows how various firmware and programming languages such as the MicroPython can be uploaded to the chip. The main aim of the book is to teach the readers how to use the MicroPython programming language on ESP8266 based hardware, especially on the NodeMCU.
Several interesting and useful projects are given in the book to show how to use the MicroPython in NodeMCU type ESP8266 hardware:
Project “What shall I wear today?”: You will be developing a weather information system using a NodeMCU development board together with a Text-to-Speech processor module.
Project “The Temperature and Humidity on the Cloud”: You will be developing a system that will get the ambient temperature and humidity using a sensor and then store this data on the cloud so that it can be accessed from anywhere.
Project “Remote Web Based Control”: You will be developing a system that will remotely control two LEDs connected to a NodeMCU development board using an HTTP Web Server application.
A Handbook on DIY
Nowadays, security problems are rarely properly solved or correctly addressed. Electronic security is only part of the chain in making a system secure. Electronic security is usually addressed as network or software security, neglecting other aspects, but the chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
This book is about electronic hardware security, with an emphasis on problems that you can solve on a shoestring DIY budget. It deals mostly with secure communications, cryptosystems, and espionage. You will quickly appreciate that you can’t simply buy a trustworthy and reliable cryptosystem off the shelf. You will then realise that this applies equally to individuals, corporations, and governments.
If you want to increase your electronic security awareness in a world already overcrowded with networks of microphones and cameras, this is a book for you. Furthermore, if you want to do something DIY by designing and expanding upon simple electronic systems, please continue reading. Some of the devices described are already published as projects in the Elektor magazine. Some are still ideas yet to be worked out.
Complexity is the main enemy of security, so we'll try to keep to simple systems. Every chapter will analyse real-life espionage events or at least several hypothetical scenarios that will hopefully spark your imagination. The final goal is to build a security-conscious mindset (or “to get into a head of a spy”) which is necessary to recognise possible threats beforehand, to design a truly secure system.
Don’t bother reading if:
you think you and your secrets are 100% safe and secure
you think somebody else can effectively handle your security
you think conspiracy theories only exist in theory – Telefunken’s masterpiece the “FS-5000 Harpoon” was built on one!
Kick off with the MAX1000 and VHDPlus
Ready to Master FPGA Programming? In this guide, we’re diving into the world of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) – a configurable integrated circuit that can be programmed after manufacturing. Imagine bringing your ideas to life, from simple projects to complete microcontroller systems!
Meet the MAX1000: a compact and budget-friendly FPGA development board packed with features like memory, user LEDs, push-buttons, and flexible I/O ports. It’s the ideal starting point for anyone wanting to learn about FPGAs and Hardware Description Languages (HDLs).
In this book, you’ll get hands-on with the VHDPlus programming language – a simpler version of VHDL. We’ll work on practical projects using the MAX1000, helping you gain the skills and confidence to unleash your creativity.
Get ready for an exciting journey! You’ll explore a variety of projects that highlight the true power of FPGAs. Let’s turn your ideas into reality and embark on your FPGA adventure – your journey starts now!
Exciting Projects You’ll Find in This Book
Arduino-Driven BCD to 7-Segment Display Decoder
Use an Arduino Uno R4 to supply BCD data to the decoder, counting from 0 to 9 with a one-second delay
Multiplexed 4-Digit Event Counter
Create an event counter that displays the total count on a 4-digit display, incrementing with each button press
PWM Waveform with Fixed Duty Cycle
Generate a PWM waveform at 1 kHz with a fixed duty cycle of 50%
Ultrasonic Distance Measurement
Measure distances using an ultrasonic sensor, displaying the results on a 4-digit 7-segment LED
Electronic Lock
Build a simple electronic lock using combinational logic gates with push buttons and an LED output
Temperature Sensor
Monitor ambient temperature with a TMP36 sensor and display the readings on a 7-segment LED
Downloads
Software
,
by Jean-François Simon
The DE-5000 LCR Meter (Review)
The DER-EE DE-5000 is a streamlined, portable LCR meter ideally suited for precise measurements of inductance, capacitance, and resistance in electronic components. Dive into its...
,
by Clemens Valens
Unveiling the Precision of the Fnirsi HRM-10 Battery Resistance Tester
As the world shifts towards battery-powered devices, the demand for tools to test and repair these batteries is skyrocketing. After previously reviewing the Fnirsi SWM-10...