Workbench Wednesdays on Bald Engineerhttps://www.baldengineer.com/category/element14/workbench-wednesdaysRecent content in Workbench Wednesdays on Bald EngineerHugoen-USWed, 16 Apr 2025 16:46:05 +0000Can Polymer Capacitors Replace MLCCs?https://www.baldengineer.com/adsf.htmlWed, 16 Apr 2025 16:45:32 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=9106Multi-layer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) are so ubiquitous that you see them on almost every printed circuit board. Engineers and supply chain managers often ask whether polymer electrolytic capacitors can replace MLCCs. The replacement could be because of availability, or an application cannot tolerate the extreme capacitance loss with MLCC’s DC Bias Effect. This video demonstrates what happens when you replace MLCCs with Polymer Tantalum (KO-CAP) capacitors.

Can Polymer Capacitors Replace MLCCs?

Hands-on with PicoScope 7https://www.baldengineer.com/hands-on-with-picoscope-7.htmlFri, 26 Jul 2024 15:16:47 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=9037I dive into Pico Technology’s latest PicoScope oscilloscope software, PicoScope 7. Using a PicoScope 2000A (from the element14 Community), James walks through key measurements and demonstrations using the built-in arbitrary waveform generator. He explores new functionalities in PicoScope 7, such as the improved UI, a unique feature called DeepMeasure, and decoding I3C traffic. I have been using the Pico Technology PicoScope 2000A for years. (Here is my older review!) It is an entry-level oscilloscope with 10 MHz bandwidth, 100 megasamples per second sample rate, and 8 kilosample of acquisition memory. Since it is USB-based, it has companion software running on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Hands-on with PicoScope 7

B&K Precision DAS60 Hands-Onhttps://www.baldengineer.com/bk-precision-das60-hands-on.htmlWed, 05 Jun 2024 16:42:26 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8985The B&K Precision DAS60 is a data recorder. It features 6 wide-range voltage inputs, 16 digital channels, and RTD thermal sensor inputs and comes in a small compact form factor. In this video, I show what it can do. The DAS60 is designed for lab and fieldwork. Its built-in battery means you can deploy it in a facility and let it log data. It has built-in ethernet and support for generic Wi-Fi dongles. The computer runs Windows CE and has RealVNC pre-installed. This combination lets you connect remotely to configure the instrument, check its status, or review recorded data.

B&K Precision DAS60 Hands-On

NXP's MCX FRDM Board Hands-Onhttps://www.baldengineer.com/nxps-mcx-frdm-board-hands-on.htmlWed, 01 May 2024 16:59:43 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8970Check out NXP’s latest microcontroller boards. These boards of their new MCX-A and MCX-N microcontrollers. The form factor is what NXP calls Freedom (FRDM.) The MCX line of microcontrollers, each with its unique set of features, caters to a wide range of projects. The MCX-A, a general-purpose microcontroller, is ideal for entry-level projects, while the high-performance MCX-N is designed for advanced AI/machine learning tasks. NXP recently started shipping the MCX-N, adding to its versatility and appeal.

NXP's MCX FRDM Board Hands-On

Picking I2C Pull-Up Resistors (Correctly)https://www.baldengineer.com/picking-i2c-pull-up-resistors-correctly.htmlThu, 07 Mar 2024 13:22:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8909A long time ago, I made a video suggesting math was unnecessary to determine proper pull-up resistor values. Like most generalized statements, that suggestion is not always true. For example, in data buses like I2C, speeds like 400 kHz and 1 MHz are common. At those speeds, the pull-up resistor and the bus capacitance form an RC filter that fundamentally limits the data transmission speed. Or. It limits the range of pull-up resistor values. In this Workbench Wednesdays video, I show how to estimate I2C bus capacitance, measure that capacitance, and pick pull-up resistor values.

Picking I2C Pull-Up Resistors (Correctly)

nRF7002 DK vs EK vs EB Hands-Onhttps://www.baldengineer.com/nrf7002-dk-vs-ek-vs-eb-hands-on.htmlThu, 01 Feb 2024 13:53:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8884In August 2022, Nordic Semiconductor announced its first Wi-Fi product. The nRF7002 is a dual-band (2.4 and 5 GHz) Wi-Fi 6 compatible companion IC. It does not have a general-purpose microcontroller built-in. Instead, Nordic intends for you to combine it with another microcontroller, like one of their nRF52 or nRF53-series system on chip (SoC). Nordic and the element14 Community sent me an nRF7002 Development Kit (DK), Evaluation Kit (EK), and some nRF7002 QFNs. I reviewed the nRF70 variants in this video and looked at the various boards. As the thumbnail suggests, I connected the Wi-FI transceiver to a FPC1500 spectrum analyzer.

nRF7002 DK vs EK vs EB Hands-On

RP2040 Debug and Turn-On Tipshttps://www.baldengineer.com/rp2040-debug-and-turn-on-tips.htmlWed, 31 Jan 2024 17:35:18 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8882During the component shortage, I got to know Raspberry Pi’s RP2040 microcontroller. It is a dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+ with about 262 kilobytes of RAM. The feature I like most is the programmable IO pins. These are small state machines that run independently of the Arm cores. They allow for some clever tricks. For example, I used them extensively on the Mega IIe project. This video was supposed to be a project I thought of during the Mega IIe. I call it a state-mode logic analyzer. However, it took me several days to turn on and debug four boards. Time ran out, so I focused the video on debugging custom RP2040-based boards. These are all lessons I have learned from this project, plus about another dozen RP2040 boards I have built over the past couple of years.

RP2040 Debug and Turn-On Tips

Difference between flux (for soldering)https://www.baldengineer.com/difference-between-flux.htmlWed, 17 Aug 2022 13:17:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8686Often I hear this question: “how can I get better solder joints?” Without looking at anything they are doing, I already know that they could be using more flux. Or, as I point out in this video, perhaps the correct type of flux! Flux removes oxide layers, gets contaminants out of the way, and makes for better solder joints. But there are so many different types of flux and even more ways to apply it.

Difference between flux (for soldering)

Oscilloscope Trigger Primerhttps://www.baldengineer.com/oscilloscope-trigger-primer.htmlThu, 04 Aug 2022 17:54:34 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8680A powerful, but an underused feature of digital oscilloscopes is the trigger circuit. Learn from James how to use an oscilloscope’s trigger to find glitches, measure pulse widths, see transients, and stabilize a scope’s screen. This video explains the difference between Auto and Normal sweep modes, shows how to use a Pulse Width trigger, and explains how to use Hold-Off.

Oscilloscope Trigger Primer

How to Profile Battery Usage for IoT Deviceshttps://www.baldengineer.com/how-to-profile-battery-usage-for-iot-devices.htmlSat, 25 Jun 2022 13:08:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8664When running on a battery, it is important to know what parts of your circuit draw the most current. Profiling is a process where you look at sections of code or interactions with hardware to see how much power each requires. In this video, James shows four tools (and their tradeoffs) when profiling IoT or Edge Machine Learning devices. See if it makes more sense for you to use a Digital Multimeter (DMM), Power Supply with history graphs, an oscilloscope

How to Profile Battery Usage for IoT Devices

Do ALL Scope Probes Need Ground?https://www.baldengineer.com/do-all-scope-probes-need-ground.htmlFri, 24 Jun 2022 13:05:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8661When connecting multiple oscilloscope probes to a circuit, does each probe need to connect to ground? The short answer is yes! Why? The long answer is kind because of the ground loop. Remember, a circuit needs a closed path. And while on DC circuits we may rarely think about the distance of that path, it absolutely matters when there is an AC or frequency component. When you do not connect each probe’s ground, the signal path because enormous since it must connect to the circuit’s ground through another probe. (See the animation in the video above.)

Do ALL Scope Probes Need Ground?

How Oscilloscope Acquisition Modes Workhttps://www.baldengineer.com/how-oscilloscope-acquisition-modes-work.htmlThu, 23 Jun 2022 13:38:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8658Every digital oscilloscope I have ever used has a menu or dialog for “acquisition modes.” And depending on the current settings, changing that acquisition mode does not seem to have an effect on the signal. Or sometimes, changing to something like Average mode can completely destroy your measurements. It turns out, that the analog-to-digital converters in digital oscilloscopes can do more than just “sample” the data. Well, the ADCs just samples. The controller behind the ADC offers modes like Peak Detect and Average and High-Resolution.

How Oscilloscope Acquisition Modes Work

Hands-On with B&K Precision 9140 Power Supply | Workbench Wednesdays #53https://www.baldengineer.com/hands-on-with-bk-precision-9140-power-supply-workbench-wednesdays-53.htmlWed, 22 Jun 2022 15:36:22 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8654Bench power supplies are an essential piece of test equipment gear. And like most test gear, they have a wide range of capabilities. For example, the B&K Precision 9140 is a triple output supply that can output up to 300 watts. But, the basic capability isn’t what interested me about the supply. Instead, it was advanced features like rear panel triggers, adjustable slew rate, and built-in sequencing. The element14 Community arranged for a B&K Precision 9140 power supply to be sent to me for a hands-on overview of those features.

Hands-On with B&K Precision 9140 Power Supply | Workbench Wednesdays #53

Three Tips to Improve Your Soldering | Workbench Wednesdays #52https://www.baldengineer.com/three-tips-to-improve-your-soldering-workbench-wednesdays-52.htmlFri, 11 Mar 2022 00:25:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8367Using a Metcal GT120, we look at three ways to improve your soldering skills. Using flux, setting a correct temperature, and selecting the proper tip all result in better solder joints. See how well the GT120 works while learning (or reviewing) some basics to improve your soldering skills. This episode was sponsored by Metcal.

Three Tips to Improve Your Soldering | Workbench Wednesdays #52

How to Measure Ripple Voltage on a Switch-Mode Power Supply | Workbench Wednesdays #51https://www.baldengineer.com/how-to-measure-ripple-voltage-on-a-switch-mode-power-supply-workbench-wednesdays-51.htmlTue, 01 Mar 2022 00:23:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8365Measuring a switch-mode power supply (SMPS) with a DMM might show a stable voltage. But the same DC rail on an oscilloscope can show a completely different story! In this video, learn how to correctly set up an oscilloscope to characterize the noise an SMPS creates in a circuit.

How to Measure Ripple Voltage on a Switch-Mode Power Supply | Workbench Wednesdays #51

DIY Solder-In Oscilloscope Probes | Workbench Wednesdays #50https://www.baldengineer.com/diy-solder-in-oscilloscope-probes-workbench-wednesdays-50.htmlThu, 03 Feb 2022 00:19:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8363When you cannot get an oscilloscope probe into a tight spot, can you just use a piece of wire? Sometimes. When signal integrity matters, you CAN use a low-cost DIY solder-in probe. These probes attenuate the signal and use an oscilloscope’s high-bandwidth 50-ohm input. James shows how to build some solder-in probes when they work and when they do not work in this video. Special thanks to Shabaz on the element14 community for the guide used here.

DIY Solder-In Oscilloscope Probes | Workbench Wednesdays #50

Instrument Basics: Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) with PicoVNA | Workbench Wednesdays #49https://www.baldengineer.com/instrument-basics-vector-network-analyzer-vna-with-picovna-workbench-wednesdays-49.htmlWed, 19 Jan 2022 00:15:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8360Vector network analyzers (VNAs) measure how a “network” of components changes the amplitude and phase of signals. By measuring across a wide frequency range, VNAs can create S-Parameters that fully describe the behavior of a circuit. This video uses a PicoVNA 106 to show the basics of what a VNA measures, how they work, and a brief overview of how to use one. I made a mistake on the explainer graphic for S-parameters. The annoying thing is that I think it was a really good explanation!

Instrument Basics: Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) with PicoVNA | Workbench Wednesdays #49

Exploring the Digilent Analog Discovery 3000 Pro Series | Workbench Wednesdays #48https://www.baldengineer.com/exploring-the-digilent-analog-discovery-3000-pro-series-workbench-wednesdays-48.htmlWed, 15 Dec 2021 00:11:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8357Analog Discovery Pro from Digilent comes in a 2-channel (ADP3250) or 4-channel (ADP3450) version. These all-in-one instruments work with a PC over USB or can run entirely standalone. On the PC the excellent Waveforms software provides virtual instruments like an Oscilloscope, Logic Analyzer, Power Supply, Spectrum Analyzer, Curve Tracer, Network Analyzer, and Impedance Analyzer. Just to name a few. See what this new instrument offers in this hands-on review. This episode was sponsored by Digilent.

Exploring the Digilent Analog Discovery 3000 Pro Series | Workbench Wednesdays #48

What does Bandwidth mean for Oscilloscopes? | Workbench Wednesdays #47:https://www.baldengineer.com/what-does-bandwidth-mean-for-oscilloscopes-workbench-wednesdays-47.htmlFri, 12 Nov 2021 00:08:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8354Using the Rohde and Schwarz RTH1004 ScopeRider, James talks about oscilloscope bandwidth. In this video, learn what oscilloscope bandwidth is, and what it is not, and see two measurements that help you tell if you are being band-limited by an oscilloscope. The episode was sponsored by Rohde & Schwarz.

What does Bandwidth mean for Oscilloscopes? | Workbench Wednesdays #47:

Pros and Cons of Low-Temp Solder Paste | Workbench Wednesdays #46https://www.baldengineer.com/pros-and-cons-of-low-temp-solder-paste-workbench-wednesdays-46.htmlMon, 25 Oct 2021 23:03:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8352Low-temperature solder paste makes it easier to reflow-solder and re-work surface mount circuit boards. MG Chemicals offers a Bismuth-based paste that works great from larger passive components to fine pitched packages, like QFN. In this video, learn what solder paste is, what it means for a paste to be “low temperature,” and some things to watch out for when using it. This episode was sponsored by MG Chemicals.

Pros and Cons of Low-Temp Solder Paste | Workbench Wednesdays #46

160 MHz Arbitrary Waveform Generator Review | Workbench Wednesdays #44:https://www.baldengineer.com/160-mhz-arbitrary-waveform-generator-review-workbench-wednesdays-44.htmlMon, 20 Sep 2021 22:59:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8349Arbitrary waveform generators can generate almost any waveshape. In this video, see how the MP750290 from Multicomp Pro performs. Its key specs are 160 MHz, 14-bit 1.25 Gigasample per second digital-to-analog converter, 1 million point memory, and over 150 built-in waveforms. The episode was Sponsored by Multicomp Pro.

160 MHz Arbitrary Waveform Generator Review | Workbench Wednesdays #44:

The Origins of Delayed Timings on Oscilloscopes | Workbench Wednesdays #43https://www.baldengineer.com/the-origins-of-delayed-timings-on-oscilloscopes-workbench-wednesdays-43.htmlTue, 31 Aug 2021 22:57:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8347Almost everyone uses a digital oscilloscope’s zoom features. However, did you know that 40-year-old analog oscilloscopes can do something similar? Delayed time bases on analog scopes sweep twice so that the user can see a slow and fast sweep. In this video, see where “zoom” came from and how engineers accomplished the same measurement back in the day.

The Origins of Delayed Timings on Oscilloscopes | Workbench Wednesdays #43

Compare Ideal vs. Real Filter with an LCR Meter | Workbench Wednesdays #42https://www.baldengineer.com/compare-ideal-vs-real-filter-with-an-lcr-meter-workbench-wednesdays-42.htmlThu, 05 Aug 2021 22:51:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8344Compare the ideal and measured cut-off frequency for a filter with a handheld LCR meter. Unlike a DMM, these meters apply an AC signal (from 100 Hz to 100 kHz) to determine the reactive component of an inductor, capacitor, or resistor. A simple example here is a low-pass filter. See how the ideal and measured cut-off frequency varies. And THEN, see how it compares between a PCB and a Breadboard.

Compare Ideal vs. Real Filter with an LCR Meter | Workbench Wednesdays #42

How Eaton's Power Defense Circuit Breakers Work | Workbench Wednesdays #41https://www.baldengineer.com/how-eatons-power-defense-circuit-breakers-work-workbench-wednesdays-41.htmlThu, 15 Jul 2021 22:45:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8342Circuit breakers make electricity safe in everyday life. The miniature breakers found in your home are relatively simple devices. Commercial units like the Eaton Power Defense with PXR Trip units are found everywhere, even if we do not see them. Learn how a basic circuit breaker works and get some insight into these advanced electronic controlled Circuit Breakers. In this video, I got to interview Andy at Eaton. He was an interesting person and very knowledgeable about circuit breakers. I had no idea how much technology went into them.

How Eaton's Power Defense Circuit Breakers Work | Workbench Wednesdays #41

Measurements with an SMU | Workbench Wednesdays #40https://www.baldengineer.com/measurements-with-an-smu-workbench-wednesdays-40.htmlTue, 22 Jun 2021 22:43:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8340Source Measurement Units, or SMUs, combine an accurate power supply, high-power electronic load, and precise digital voltmeter into a signal unit. They are a four-quadrant source. That means they can provide power to a circuit or consume it. With an SMU you can characterize semiconductor devices (like Diodes), monitor the power consumption of a circuit, or simulate a battery. In this video, see the difference between an SMU and a Power Supply.Op Amps Without Op Amps | Workbench Wednesdays #39https://www.baldengineer.com/op-amps-without-op-amps-workbench-wednesdays-39.htmlTue, 08 Jun 2021 22:35:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8338Okay, technically, this circuit *does* use Op-Amps. However, the ones shown here are integrated into an ATmega128DB microcontroller from Microchip. The DIP package breaks out two operational amplifiers that are controllable entirely by software. Even better, you can program them like they are an Arduino!

Op Amps Without Op Amps | Workbench Wednesdays #39

Which Oscilloscope Form Factor Is Best For Me? | Workbench Wednesdays #38https://www.baldengineer.com/which-oscilloscope-form-factor-is-best-for-me-workbench-wednesdays-38.htmlFri, 21 May 2021 22:30:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8336Oscilloscopes are available in many shapes and sizes. After figuring out how much bandwidth you need (or want), the next step is to choose the form factor. Do you go with the traditional bench style? When does it make sense to use a USB-based scope with your PC? And what about these newer tablets or battery-powered oscilloscopes? Learn the difference between them and see which one is best for you.

Which Oscilloscope Form Factor Is Best For Me? | Workbench Wednesdays #38

Desoldering Wick Tips and Tricks with Superwick | Workbench Wednesdays #37https://www.baldengineer.com/desoldering-wick-tips-and-tricks-with-superwick-workbench-wednesdays-37.htmlMon, 12 Apr 2021 22:14:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8330Desoldering braid removes surface solder from a circuit board. It makes reworking PCBs easy and quick. With a few tips and tricks, products like MG Chemical’s Superwick can work like magic. You can remove solder from surface mount parts, wick away excess solder blobs, and repair boards using it. In this video, James shares tips and tricks from the element14 community for using desoldering braid. (Please note: the makers of Superwick, MG Chemicals, sponsored this video)

Desoldering Wick Tips and Tricks with Superwick | Workbench Wednesdays #37

Essential Logic Families | Workbench Wednesdays #35https://www.baldengineer.com/essential-logic-families-workbench-wednesdays-35.htmlTue, 02 Mar 2021 23:07:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8328Did you know that TTL chips do not output 5 volts? 74LS, 74HC, and 74HCT all have different input and output thresholds. Switching between logic families can be difficult if you are not careful. In this video, learn how different 7400-series logic families compare with input threshold, output voltage, frequency, rise time, and propagation delay. Check out this TI Application Guide for a great resource on logic families.

Essential Logic Families | Workbench Wednesdays #35

Triggering And Decoding Serial Protocols On An Oscilloscope | Workbench Wednesdays #34https://www.baldengineer.com/triggering-and-decoding-serial-protocols-on-an-oscilloscope-workbench-wednesdays-34.htmlTue, 02 Feb 2021 23:03:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8326Everything with a microcontroller has serial buses in it. Busses like UART, I2C, and SPI are very popular choices. When you have a problem with a sensor that uses one or the bus itself, you can use an oscilloscope or logic analyzer to “decode” the traffic. These decoders convert the 1s and 0s into readable HEX or ASCII characters. I am not sure how I thought of the “multiple” James idea for the thumbnail. The concept had something to do with “serial,” but I am not sure what.

Triggering And Decoding Serial Protocols On An Oscilloscope | Workbench Wednesdays #34

Measuring A 555 On An Oscilloscope | Workbench Wednesdays #33https://www.baldengineer.com/measuring-a-555-on-an-oscilloscope-workbench-wednesdays-33.htmlFri, 01 Jan 2021 23:00:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8324The 555 is a very popular chip, and for good reason. It is such a versatile timer. Learn about 555 measurements like how to measure the voltage divider inside the chip and what is going on with the signals in an astable multivibrator (clock) circuit. The key to a 555 circuit is connecting the threshold and trigger pins together. But, until you see the schematic and waveforms it may not be obvious why.

Measuring A 555 On An Oscilloscope | Workbench Wednesdays #33

UPS ESR Battery Measurements | Workbench Wednesdays #32:https://www.baldengineer.com/ups-esr-battery-measurements-workbench-wednesdays-32.htmlTue, 15 Dec 2020 22:57:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8322As batteries age, their ESR goes up. Eventually, they will no longer be serviceable. A battery measurement tool like the Hioki BT3554 lets field service technicians monitor the help of batteries over time. In this video, see how it can be used to measure a live UPS battery. This episode was sponsored by Hioki.

UPS ESR Battery Measurements | Workbench Wednesdays #32:

Essential Consumables for Building Circuits | Workbench Wednesdays #31:https://www.baldengineer.com/essential-consumables-for-building-circuits-workbench-wednesdays-31.htmlWed, 18 Nov 2020 22:48:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8319Obviously, you need solder to build most circuits. However, before and after soldering a circuit, there is a bunch of other stuff. In this Workbench Wednesdays episode, James looks at the solder, flux, wick, and cleaning supplies needed when working with electronics. Make sure your lab is stocked with these must-have consumables.

Essential Consumables for Building Circuits | Workbench Wednesdays #31:

Ceramic Capacitor Voltage Effect | Workbench Wednesdays #30https://www.baldengineer.com/ceramic-capacitor-voltage-effect-workbench-wednesdays-30.htmlWed, 28 Oct 2020 21:46:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8317Ceramic capacitors change capacitance with applied voltage, temperature, and age. They are the most popular electronic component, yet many do not understand what causes this capacitance to change. In this video, James teams up with Murata to see what happens to a simple timer circuit when changing a capacitor from a 1206 case size to a much smaller 0201.

Ceramic Capacitor Voltage Effect | Workbench Wednesdays #30

What Active Components Do You Need? | Workbench Wednesday #29https://www.baldengineer.com/what-active-components-do-you-need-workbench-wednesday-29.htmlThu, 08 Oct 2020 21:43:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8315Active components like transistors, BJTs, MOSFETs, and integrated circuits (ICs) make it possible to control circuits. This video explains the must-have NPN and PNP BJTs. For MOSFETs there are a couple of N-Channels and P-Channels to consider. Basic ICs include some digital logic stuff from the 7400-family as well as the venerable 555-timer to have on-hand. We did not forget Op-Amps either. Spoiler: We do not recommend the ua741!

What Active Components Do You Need? | Workbench Wednesday #29

What Passive Components Do You Need? | Workbench Wednesdays #28https://www.baldengineer.com/what-passive-components-do-you-need-workbench-wednesdays-28.htmlWed, 09 Sep 2020 21:41:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8313Whether you are just getting started in electronics or you have boxes of parts, it is good to know what are the most critical parts to have in your kit. James asked the element 14 community for what they considered to be essential passive components like resistors, capacitors, switches, wires, and even diodes. In this video, he consolidated their puts and explains what to think about when buying these parts for your kit.

What Passive Components Do You Need? | Workbench Wednesdays #28

Instrument Basics: Logic Probe | Workbench Wednesdays #27https://www.baldengineer.com/instrument-basics-logic-probe-workbench-wednesdays-27.htmlThu, 13 Aug 2020 21:36:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8309Logic probes are great for debugging 7400 series logic chips and digital circuits. In this video, James makes a counter circuit and debugs each stage as he builds, with a Logic Probe. If you are wondering, “do I need a logic probe” this video shows how one can be used and even answers when you should consider buying one.

Instrument Basics: Logic Probe | Workbench Wednesdays #27

How to Measure Sound with a Handheld Meter | Workbench Wednesday #26https://www.baldengineer.com/how-to-measure-sound-with-a-handheld-meter-workbench-wednesday-26.htmlTue, 07 Jul 2020 21:31:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8305One of the loudest pieces of equipment on Bald Engineer’s electronics workbench is the Electronic DC Load. James has finally had it with its noise and decided to swap the fan out. To see (and not just hear) an improvement, he uses a Tenma 72-942 handheld sound meter to compare before and after. Full notes on element14 community

How to Measure Sound with a Handheld Meter | Workbench Wednesday #26

Measuring a MOSFET's Miller Plateau | Workbench Wednesdays #25https://www.baldengineer.com/measuring-a-mosfets-miller-plateau-workbench-wednesdays-25.htmlTue, 07 Jul 2020 21:28:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8303Turning on a MOSFET takes more than knowing the threshold voltage. A special event occurs when a FET turns on, which is called the Miller Plateau. The gate voltage sticks to the threshold voltage while the drain opens up. In this video, James shows how to measure the Miller Capacitance, using an oscilloscope and custom MOSFET test board. This video came from some measurements I did on a live stream. I had intended to demonstrate something else, but the board I created was such a great demo board for the Miller Effect.

Measuring a MOSFET's Miller Plateau | Workbench Wednesdays #25

No-Contact Current Measurements | Workbench Wednesday #24https://www.baldengineer.com/no-contact-current-measurements-workbench-wednesday-24.htmlTue, 05 May 2020 21:25:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8301One of the safest ways to measure current is with a clamp. Clamps do not require you to break the circuit and they safely measure wires with thousands of amps. In this video, we measure DC current in the lab, AC current of a reflow oven controller, and the DC current in a car using a Tenma 72-7226 True RMS Clamp Meter. This video was the last one I did before moving to a new house / lab.

No-Contact Current Measurements | Workbench Wednesday #24

What that DMM Beep Means - A Continuity Mode Tutorial | Workbench Wednesdays #23https://www.baldengineer.com/what-that-dmm-beep-means-a-continuity-mode-tutorial-workbench-wednesdays-23.htmlTue, 28 Apr 2020 21:23:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8298Chances are, you have used the continuity mode of your digital multimeter. But how much do you understand about how it works? In this video, we break down how the mode works, what the beep means, and show examples of how to use it (correctly.) It might seem silly to spend so much time on such a simple mode. However, I have run across a few posts on the Internet, including the element14 Community where people do not understand continuity mode. Sometimes it is just a lack of experience and sometimes it is a total lack of understanding of what is happening. The biggest mistake, of course, is trying to measure continuity on a powered circuit. That is just a no-go. So in this video, I wanted to show what the meter is actually doing, how it sees different components, and give a couple of real-life examples of how to use it.

What that DMM Beep Means - A Continuity Mode Tutorial | Workbench Wednesdays #23

Instrument Basics: LCR Meter | Workbench Wednesdays #22https://www.baldengineer.com/instrument-basics-lcr-meter-workbench-wednesdays-22.htmlWed, 01 Apr 2020 23:31:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8369Learn how to use an LCR meter, such as the Tenma 72-10465, to measure reactive components. An LCR meter uses an AC signal at different frequencies to characterize capacitors, inductors, and even resistors. They can also provide impedance measurements. These include phase angle, ESR, quality factor, and dissipation factor. You can even use the 72-10465 to sort components by their tolerance range.

Instrument Basics: LCR Meter | Workbench Wednesdays #22

DMM Half-Digits Explained | Workbench Wednesdays #21https://www.baldengineer.com/dmm-half-digits-explained-workbench-wednesdays-21.htmlThu, 05 Mar 2020 22:20:00 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?p=8296What does it mean for a DMM to have 3.5 digits? How much more accurate is a 5.5 digit multimeter versus a 4.75 digit meter? Many people assume that more digits mean more accuracy. However, these numbers express the precision of the meter, not its accuracy! In this video, learn about a DMM’s accuracy, and what does “half a digit” mean. As I often do, I messed up the decimals in this one.

DMM Half-Digits Explained | Workbench Wednesdays #21

Thermal Tools for Circuit Measurements | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/thermal-tools-circuit-measurements.htmlSun, 23 Feb 2020 17:48:14 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=post&p=7994Measuring the effectiveness of a heatsink or the thermal load of a CPU requires thermal test tools. In this episode, learn how an IR Thermometer and a Thermocouple could be used on an electronics workbench. Many multimeters (DMMs) include the ability to measure temperature with a K-type thermocouple. See examples of when each measurement could be used. Behind the scenes of Thermal Tools Tutorial Originally intended to use the episode to show how hot the Pi 4 would get. However, by the time I got around to producing it, a new version of Raspbian came out, resolving the temperature issues. To heat up the Pi, I used this toolset from GitHub: XXXXX.

Thermal Tools for Circuit Measurements | Workbench Wednesdays

DMM Basics Video Tutorial | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/dmm-basics-video-tutorial.htmlSun, 23 Feb 2020 16:47:49 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7991A multimeter is the go-to-tool for electronics measurements. Knowing how to use it to measure voltage, current, diodes, and transistors can save time (and frustration) while troubleshooting. In this video, James explains how the multimeter works, so that you can understand them better. After watching, you will gain a solid DMM basics understanding. Behind the scenes of wbw’s DMM Basics The first Workbench Wednesdays episode covered a pen-style DMM. Back when we were first developing the show, the intent was to be more of a review show and less of a tutorial show. That episode became a mix of both. So we decided to do a straight-up tutorial on DMM basics. Measuring voltage usually has not tripped up too many people, especially on an auto-ranging meter. The main thing to remember with current is to move the red lead back to the voltage input immediately after making a measurement. I touched on continuity briefly but hope to come back and cover that more in the future.

DMM Basics Video Tutorial | Workbench Wednesdays

4-Wire Resistance Tutorial | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/4-wire-resistance-tutorial.htmlSun, 23 Feb 2020 16:31:31 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7990Bench DMMs have an extra set of banana jacks called “sense.” Known as a Kelvin or 4-wire resistance measurements, these inputs accurately measure small resistors. Like, milliohms small. This video shows how to make a 4-wire measurement, prove when it is accurate, and alternatives to 4-wire. See below for an explanation of the alternative method shown. Behind the scenes Doing yet another DMM episode was a tough call for me. However, I am working on a project that requires me to characterize both a 1 ohm and a 100 milliohm resistor. The element14 community was kind enough to send me an MP720028 bench DMM. As shown in the picture, it has an extra set of banana jacks called “4-wire sense.” These connections make 4-wire resistance measurements. In this video, I show the same resistor measured with the traditional 2-wire and advanced 4-wire configuration. (Spoiler Alert! The 2-wire measurement was almost twice as big as the 4-wire!)

4-Wire Resistance Tutorial | Workbench Wednesdays

Digilent Analog Discovery 2 Review | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/digilent-analog-discovery-2-review.htmlSun, 29 Dec 2019 18:44:50 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7976The Analog Discovery 2 combines all the equipment found on a typical electronics workbench into one small package. It packs an oscilloscope, logic analyzer, power supplies, spectrum analyzer, and so much more. As impressive as the hardware is, the Analog Discovery 2’s software, called Waveforms, is fantastic as well. You can configure it for any measurement situation, and it has extensive scripting capability. See if you should be considering adding the Analog Discovery 2 to your electronics workbench.

Digilent Analog Discovery 2 Review | Workbench Wednesdays

Function Generator Basics | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/function-generator-basics.htmlSun, 29 Dec 2019 18:32:19 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7974Generating signals with a waveform, function, or arbitrary generator lets you test all kinds of circuits. Learn how to get a function generator to output a signal, the 3 types of waveforms you can create, and which controls matter. James, the Bald Engineer, explains the difference between analog and digital generators. The video introduction is my first attempt at doing an LGR style “Tech Tales” story. It is short with only a few images. However, it is something I would like to do more of in the future. My professional career started at Agilent right when they split off from Hewlett Packard. Most of my co-workers had been there while Bill and Dave still worked at the company. Even though the computer division took the name, Agilent was HP’s core: test and measurement.

Function Generator Basics | Workbench Wednesdays

Logic Analyzer Basics | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/logic-analyzer-on-wbw.htmlSun, 29 Dec 2019 18:28:48 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7973Logic analyzers capture digital signals and then display a waveform or list. Serial busses like I2C, SPI, or UART (Serial) can be decoded or triggered on when there are problems in your circuit. In this video, learn the basic controls you need to use (almost) any logic analyzer. You’ll learn how to set up a simple trigger, make measurements, and set things like sample rate or memory depth. When I first graduated from college, I started as an Application Engineer for Agilent Technologies. Based in Austin, I supported computer companies like Dell, Compaq, HP, IBM, and Tandem. I helped their engineers set up million-dollar logic analyzer configurations to measure various PC busses.

Logic Analyzer Basics | Workbench Wednesdays

Spectrum Analyzer Basics | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/spectrum-analyzer-basics.htmlThu, 17 Oct 2019 02:06:58 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7953A spectrum analyzer displays signals in the frequency domain. To use one, you only need to know about four controls: reference level, center frequency, and resolution bandwidth. In this episode, see how to use a spectrum analyzer and determine the transmitting frequency of a device. The example device is my microphone transmitter. It operates around 500 MHz with FM modulation. You’ll see how I step through the spectrum analyzer controls to find the exact frequency. At the end of the episode, I show some advanced measurements you can do with a modern spectrum analyzer. My favorite one is the demodulation.

Spectrum Analyzer Basics | Workbench Wednesdays

Electronic Load Basics | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/electronic-load-basics.htmlWed, 18 Sep 2019 15:15:24 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7950During the Bench Power Supply basics video, I made use of my electronic load. An electronic load can sink current from power sources such as power supplies or batteries. Loads are useful to test a power supply’s design margin or verify a battery’s capacity. See how three different instrument options from ultra low-end to midrange to high-end compare. After this element14 Presents Workbench Wednesday video, you will understand how to use modes on an electronic load like constant current and constant resistance to make different measurements.

Electronic Load Basics | Workbench Wednesdays

Bench Power Supply Basics | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/bench-power-supply-basics.htmlWed, 28 Aug 2019 15:36:25 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7944A bench power supply makes powering circuits easy and safe. Learn how to adjust basic controls like voltage. Finally, see how “current limiting” works (and why you should use it.) See how you can use built-in series or parallel tracking to increase a bench power supply’s voltage or current output. Last, if you are in the market for a power supply, do not forget to add some leads like mini-grabbers, alligator clips, and banana plugs.

Bench Power Supply Basics | Workbench Wednesdays

DCA Pro Transistor Tester Review | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/dca-pro-review-tests-transistors.htmlWed, 07 Aug 2019 14:19:09 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7940When it comes to transistors, there are only so many things a multimeter can measure. The DCA Pro from PEAK Electronics makes short work of testing parts like a transistor. This small device can determine pinout, component type, and essential parameters in a matter of seconds. Not only that but it can be connected to a (Windows) PC and draw parameter curves. Check out the video review to see how the device and software work. Then head over to the element14 page where you can download a zip file full of example parts I measured for you. Use the free DCA Pro software to open them.

DCA Pro Transistor Tester Review | Workbench Wednesdays

Measuring ESR with the PEAK ESR70 | Workbench Wednesdays Reviewhttps://www.baldengineer.com/esr70-measures-esr.htmlWed, 26 Jun 2019 14:50:45 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7877There are three capacitor measurements you need to know how to make: capacitance, leakage current, and equivalent series resistance. Capacitance is easy to measure if you have a current limited supply or can use a resistor. Apply a voltage, then time how long it takes to charge up. You might need to use an oscilloscope or even an Arduino for the second part. Leakage current is the easiest of the three, apply a voltage (ideally through a resistor) for a few minutes, and then measure the current. ESR requires some special tricks. Since it is the resistance of the “wires” connecting to the capacitive element’s anode and code, you have to measure resistance without charging up the capacitor. (Otherwise, you get leakage.)

Measuring ESR with the PEAK ESR70 | Workbench Wednesdays Review

Bald Engineer's ESD Must-Haves | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/bald-engineer-esd-must-haves.htmlWed, 05 Jun 2019 23:30:01 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7843Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) damage can occur without you knowing it. That’s bad. However, the good news is that with little effort you can prevent it. Duratool has a kit of the most common tools for any electronics workbench. It includes a large mat, grounding cable, wrist strap, ESD-safe cleaner, and a simple electronic tester. Don’t get shocked by electrostatic discharge; add these simple tools to prevent it. This review is on a kit that includes:

Bald Engineer's ESD Must-Haves | Workbench Wednesdays

Tenma 72-2660 Portable Hand Held Supply | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/tenma-72-2660-supply-review.htmlMon, 13 May 2019 13:25:12 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7783The TENMA 72-2660 portable power supply offers bench supply capability in a backpack-friendly package. The single output is capable of 45 watts with up to 30 volts and 3.75 amps out. The built-in USB ports offer an easy way to power 5 Volts Arduino or Raspberry Pi projects while limiting their current. See how this portable supply performs, the things the Bald Engineer likes about it, and the points to consider before buying

Tenma 72-2660 Portable Hand Held Supply | Workbench Wednesdays

Health and Solder Fumes | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/health-and-solder-fumes-workbench-wednesdays.htmlThu, 09 May 2019 13:18:20 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7781An overlooked danger of electronics soldering is the fumes. While the smell and smoke may not be pleasant, the chemicals in the fumes can be harmful. Is solder made with lead(Pb) your only concern? Learn about where lead-free solder came from, what different flux types mean, and two ways to keep your air (and your lungs clean.) In the video, I show a cheap “smoke eater” and a professional fume extractor. There is a cost difference of $50 and $700 between the two. However, either is better than having nothing.

Health and Solder Fumes | Workbench Wednesdays

Surface Mount Rework Tools | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/surface-mount-rework-tools-workbench-wednesdays.htmlThu, 28 Mar 2019 03:21:42 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7709In this element14 Workbench Wednesdays episode, I review tools provided by Weller which are suitable for surface mount soldering. Throughout the soldering series, I have been using mini-projects to see how the gear works. Making this particular video was special to me. The subject was a TI-85. Back when I was a kid, one of my first soldering projects was to replace a capacitor in the TI-85. At the time, all I knew is that the change would make it run faster. I didn’t know why I just knew it worked.

Surface Mount Rework Tools | Workbench Wednesdays

Soldering Tool Upgrade Paths | Workbench Wednesdayshttps://www.baldengineer.com/soldering-tool-upgrade-paths.htmlSat, 09 Feb 2019 01:45:15 +0000https://www.baldengineer.com/?post_type=link&p=7687Right after the digital multimeter, or DMM, a soldering iron is a must-have tool for electronics work. Like most tools, there is a vast variety of options available. In this episode of element14’s Workbench Wednesdays, I look at a range of instruments from Weller. They offer everything from a cheap $10 “fire starter” (sorry, it is what we call them!) all the way up to a full-blown surface mount rework station. Whether you don’t have a soldering iron or you have a $100 station, this video will show you options to consider when thinking about an upgrade.

Soldering Tool Upgrade Paths | Workbench Wednesdays