# Bald Engineer > Electronics tutorials, projects, videos, and reviews. ## Search - [Search](https://www.baldengineer.com/search/): browser-based full-text search powered by Pagefind. - The search page loads a static index from `https://www.baldengineer.com/pagefind/`; there is no server-side `/api/search` endpoint or documented query URL. - Agents that cannot execute the Pagefind JavaScript should use the [XML sitemap](https://www.baldengineer.com/sitemap.xml), [RSS feed](https://www.baldengineer.com/index.xml), category and tag indexes, or the Markdown URLs listed below. ## Editorial pages - [Bald Engineer Live Stream](https://www.baldengineer.com/live.md): ## Thursday 6 p.m. / 18:00 US Central Time (GMT -6h) Bald Engineer's live streams happen each week around the same time. VODs are available in this… - [Contact](https://www.baldengineer.com/contact.md): Contact James the Bald Engineer about content creation, project collaboration, or to get your product reviewed. - [Privacy Policy](https://www.baldengineer.com/privacy-policy.md): How Bald Engineer processes hosting logs and information associated with Google Fonts, YouTube embeds, and Google Analytics. - [About baldengineer.com](https://www.baldengineer.com/about.md): Hi there, my name is James! For a long time, I used "cmiyc.com" for my blog and personal brand. It all started back when I was a kid and used BBSes running at the blazing speed… ## Posts - [Make Waveforms Misbehave on Purpose with ArbDraw](https://www.baldengineer.com/arbdraw-intro.md): 5 ways to create, edit, and export arbitrary waveforms with the browser-based ArbDraw editor. - [Replacing Electrolytic Capacitors | VCF Midwest 2025 Talk](https://www.baldengineer.com/vcfmw2025.md): - Slides PDF: (/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Electrolytics-are-Ticking-Time-Bombs-v2.pdf) - Bit Preserve: (https://bald.ee/bitpreserve) - Bald Engineer's… - [Can Polymer Capacitors Replace MLCCs?](https://www.baldengineer.com/adsf.md): Multi-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… - [Exploring DIY PCB Assembly versus Turnkey Services with MacroFab and Bald SENSE](https://www.baldengineer.com/exploring-diy-pcb-assembly-versus-turnkey-services-with-macrofab-and-bald-sense.md): Experience comparing DIY and Turnkey PCB assembly with the (https://github.com/baldengineer/BaldSENSE_Sensor_Feather_Wing). This journey started almost four years ago. Thanks… - [Hands-on with PicoScope 7](https://www.baldengineer.com/hands-on-with-picoscope-7.md): I dive into Pico Technology's latest PicoScope oscilloscope software, PicoScope 7. Using a PicoScope 2000A (from the element14 Community), James walks through key measurements… - [Python to set 8th bit in ASCII String](https://www.baldengineer.com/python-to-set-8th-bit-in-ascii-string.md): The Apple II's ROM has the 8th bit set for all of its ASCII strings. This convention makes it difficult to search the ROM for hex strings quickly. This Python script takes an… - [STOP! Using the Wrong Capacitors | Teardown 2024](https://www.baldengineer.com/stop-using-the-wrong-capacitors.md): (https://www.crowdsupply.com/teardown/portland-2024) ## Google Slides (/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Stop-Using-the-Wrong-Capacitors-Teardown-2024-v1.pdf) ## Links - Circuit… - [B&K Precision DAS60 Hands-On](https://www.baldengineer.com/bk-precision-das60-hands-on.md): The (https://www.bkprecision.com/products/data-acquisition-recorders-loggers/DAS60?change_language=en) is a data recorder. It features 6 wide-range voltage inputs, 16 digital… - [Retro Repairs RoundUp Appearance](https://www.baldengineer.com/retro-repairs-roundup-appearance.md): The (https://www.youtube.com/@RetroRepairRoundup) crew invited me to be a guest on episode 56 of their livestream. As their name implies, they discuss retro computers and, in… - [Mega IIe Supercon 2023 Talk is now Live!](https://www.baldengineer.com/mega-iie-supercon-2023-talk-is-now-live.md): I must extend a big "Thank You!" to (https://hackaday.com/2024/05/14/supercon-2023-building-the-ultimate-apple-iie-decades-later/). Accompanying the post is an archived… - [NXP's MCX FRDM Board Hands-On](https://www.baldengineer.com/nxps-mcx-frdm-board-hands-on.md): Check 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… - [WiFi-Enabled LED detector tells me when my Dehumidifier is Full!](https://www.baldengineer.com/wifi-enabled-led-detector-tells-me-when-my-dehumidifier-is-full.md): I created a Wi-Fi-enabled LED Detector using Nordic's nRF7002 Design Kit (DK). Using this box, I can detect when LEDs on appliances, like my lab's dehumidifier, are on. In… - [From MLCC to Polymer: Unlocking Capacitor Impedance Plot Secrets](https://www.baldengineer.com/from-mlcc-to-polymer-unlocking-capacitor-impedance-plot-secrets.md): ## April 17, 2024, at 1:00 pm CDT (https://bald.ee/mlcc2polymer) Capacitors are deceptively complex devices. It is why I love talking about them so much! Hioki USA loaned me an… - [Measuring Apple II CPU's Glitchy Clock](https://www.baldengineer.com/measuring-apple-ii-cpus-glitchy-clock.md): The Apple II's CPU clock has jitter or a glitch. This issue is not new—it has been present since its original design in 1977! Bald Engineer uses an oscilloscope to show how… - [Picking I2C Pull-Up Resistors (Correctly)](https://www.baldengineer.com/picking-i2c-pull-up-resistors-correctly.md): A 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… - [A Vintage Computing Adventure (Mega IIe)](https://www.baldengineer.com/a-vintage-computing-adventure-mega-iie.md): (https://twitter.com/LnghrnEngineer) and (https://twitter.com/analogeng) invited me back to discuss the (/category/projects/golden-delicious) project on the… - [Eight KiCad 8 features I like](https://www.baldengineer.com/eight-kicad-8-features-i-like.md): KiCad 8 just dropped. Here's an (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ohxlmy0p7FE) covering eight must-try features! The February 2024 release brings a whole host of new stuff to… - [Accessing USB instruments with pyvisa on Linux](https://www.baldengineer.com/accessing-usb-instruments-with-pyvisa-on-linux.md): USB-Based instruments that do not appear to the host as a virtual com port (VCP) usually use libusb for communication. The pyvisa-py driver for pyvisa can communicate with… - [nRF7002 DK vs EK vs EB Hands-On](https://www.baldengineer.com/nrf7002-dk-vs-ek-vs-eb-hands-on.md): In 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… - [RP2040 Debug and Turn-On Tips](https://www.baldengineer.com/rp2040-debug-and-turn-on-tips.md): During 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… - [Mega IIe Picture Album](https://www.baldengineer.com/mega-iie-picture-album.md): Most of these pictures from the Mega IIe project did not make it into a video or talk. There were many "behind the scenes" style shots. Some of the pictures have titles and… - [Use Your Scope! | Unnamed Reverse Engineering Podcast](https://www.baldengineer.com/use-your-scope-unnamed-reverse-engineering-podcast.md): (https://mastodon.social/@alvaro) and (https://infosec.exchange/@RebelbotJen) invited me to discuss the reverse engineering aspect of the Mega IIe project on the… - [Mega IIe Supercon Links](https://www.baldengineer.com/mega-iie-supercon-links.md): Links related to James (Bald Engineer) presentation at Supercon 2023. He talked about the Mega IIe (Golden Delicious) project. - [Hamvention 2023 Pick Ups](https://www.baldengineer.com/hamvention-2023-pick-ups.md): See what Bald Engineer found at Hamvention 2023 - the largest annual gathering of amateur radio operators. - [Difference between flux (for soldering)](https://www.baldengineer.com/difference-between-flux.md): Often 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… - [Oscilloscope Trigger Primer](https://www.baldengineer.com/oscilloscope-trigger-primer.md): A 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… - [How to Profile Battery Usage for IoT Devices](https://www.baldengineer.com/how-to-profile-battery-usage-for-iot-devices.md): When 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… - [Do ALL Scope Probes Need Ground?](https://www.baldengineer.com/do-all-scope-probes-need-ground.md): When 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… - [How Oscilloscope Acquisition Modes Work](https://www.baldengineer.com/how-oscilloscope-acquisition-modes-work.md): Every 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… - [Hands-On with B&K Precision 9140 Power Supply | Workbench Wednesdays #53](https://www.baldengineer.com/hands-on-with-bk-precision-9140-power-supply-workbench-wednesdays-53.md): Bench 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… - [KiCad: Connect Polygon Lines](https://www.baldengineer.com/kicad-connect-polygon-lines-and-fix-edge-cut-problems.md): In KiCad 6, using the Polygon tool makes square boards easy. Just select the `Edge.Cuts` layer, then the polygon tool, and draw a square. However, if you want custom shapes,… - [Three Tips to Improve Your Soldering | Workbench Wednesdays #52](https://www.baldengineer.com/three-tips-to-improve-your-soldering-workbench-wednesdays-52.md): Using 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… - [How to Measure Ripple Voltage on a Switch-Mode Power Supply | Workbench Wednesdays #51](https://www.baldengineer.com/how-to-measure-ripple-voltage-on-a-switch-mode-power-supply-workbench-wednesdays-51.md): Measuring 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… - [DIY Solder-In Oscilloscope Probes | Workbench Wednesdays #50](https://www.baldengineer.com/diy-solder-in-oscilloscope-probes-workbench-wednesdays-50.md): When 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… - [Instrument Basics: Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) with PicoVNA | Workbench Wednesdays #49](https://www.baldengineer.com/instrument-basics-vector-network-analyzer-vna-with-picovna-workbench-wednesdays-49.md): Vector 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… - [Exploring the Digilent Analog Discovery 3000 Pro Series | Workbench Wednesdays #48](https://www.baldengineer.com/exploring-the-digilent-analog-discovery-3000-pro-series-workbench-wednesdays-48.md): Analog 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… - [What does Bandwidth mean for Oscilloscopes? | Workbench Wednesdays #47:](https://www.baldengineer.com/what-does-bandwidth-mean-for-oscilloscopes-workbench-wednesdays-47.md): Using the Rohde and Schwarz (https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/products/test-and-measurement/oscilloscopes/rs-scope-rider-handheld-oscilloscope_63493-156160.html), James talks… - [Pros and Cons of Low-Temp Solder Paste | Workbench Wednesdays #46](https://www.baldengineer.com/pros-and-cons-of-low-temp-solder-paste-workbench-wednesdays-46.md): Low-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… - [160 MHz Arbitrary Waveform Generator Review | Workbench Wednesdays #44:](https://www.baldengineer.com/160-mhz-arbitrary-waveform-generator-review-workbench-wednesdays-44.md): Arbitrary 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… - [The Origins of Delayed Timings on Oscilloscopes | Workbench Wednesdays #43](https://www.baldengineer.com/the-origins-of-delayed-timings-on-oscilloscopes-workbench-wednesdays-43.md): Almost 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… - [Compare Ideal vs. Real Filter with an LCR Meter | Workbench Wednesdays #42](https://www.baldengineer.com/compare-ideal-vs-real-filter-with-an-lcr-meter-workbench-wednesdays-42.md): Compare 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… - [MC1377 Measurements on Mini Apple IIe Prototype video board](https://www.baldengineer.com/mc1377-measurements-on-mini-apple-iie-prototype-video-board.md): ## Out of context screenshots are out of context On the Mini Apple IIe project, I am testing the composite/sync amplifier, which is an (/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/MC1377.pdf).… - [How Eaton's Power Defense Circuit Breakers Work | Workbench Wednesdays #41](https://www.baldengineer.com/how-eatons-power-defense-circuit-breakers-work-workbench-wednesdays-41.md): Circuit 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… - [Measurements with an SMU | Workbench Wednesdays #40](https://www.baldengineer.com/measurements-with-an-smu-workbench-wednesdays-40.md): Source 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… - [Op Amps Without Op Amps | Workbench Wednesdays #39](https://www.baldengineer.com/op-amps-without-op-amps-workbench-wednesdays-39.md): Okay, 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… - [Which Oscilloscope Form Factor Is Best For Me? | Workbench Wednesdays #38](https://www.baldengineer.com/which-oscilloscope-form-factor-is-best-for-me-workbench-wednesdays-38.md): Oscilloscopes 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… - [Desoldering Wick Tips and Tricks with Superwick | Workbench Wednesdays #37](https://www.baldengineer.com/desoldering-wick-tips-and-tricks-with-superwick-workbench-wednesdays-37.md): Desoldering 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… - [Essential Logic Families | Workbench Wednesdays #35](https://www.baldengineer.com/essential-logic-families-workbench-wednesdays-35.md): Did 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… - [Triggering And Decoding Serial Protocols On An Oscilloscope | Workbench Wednesdays #34](https://www.baldengineer.com/triggering-and-decoding-serial-protocols-on-an-oscilloscope-workbench-wednesdays-34.md): Everything 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… - [Measuring A 555 On An Oscilloscope | Workbench Wednesdays #33](https://www.baldengineer.com/measuring-a-555-on-an-oscilloscope-workbench-wednesdays-33.md): The 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… - [UPS ESR Battery Measurements | Workbench Wednesdays #32:](https://www.baldengineer.com/ups-esr-battery-measurements-workbench-wednesdays-32.md): As 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… - [Essential Consumables for Building Circuits | Workbench Wednesdays #31:](https://www.baldengineer.com/essential-consumables-for-building-circuits-workbench-wednesdays-31.md): Obviously, 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… - [Ceramic Capacitor Voltage Effect | Workbench Wednesdays #30](https://www.baldengineer.com/ceramic-capacitor-voltage-effect-workbench-wednesdays-30.md): Ceramic capacitors change capacitance with applied voltage, temperature, and age. They are the most popular electronic component, yet many do not understand what causes this… - [What Active Components Do You Need? | Workbench Wednesday #29](https://www.baldengineer.com/what-active-components-do-you-need-workbench-wednesday-29.md): Active 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… - [What Passive Components Do You Need? | Workbench Wednesdays #28](https://www.baldengineer.com/what-passive-components-do-you-need-workbench-wednesdays-28.md): Whether 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… - [Instrument Basics: Logic Probe | Workbench Wednesdays #27](https://www.baldengineer.com/instrument-basics-logic-probe-workbench-wednesdays-27.md): Logic 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… - [How to Measure Sound with a Handheld Meter | Workbench Wednesday #26](https://www.baldengineer.com/how-to-measure-sound-with-a-handheld-meter-workbench-wednesday-26.md): One of the loudest pieces of equipment on Bald Engineer's electronics workbench is the (/electronic-load-basics.html). James has finally had it with its noise and decided to… - [Measuring a MOSFET's Miller Plateau | Workbench Wednesdays #25](https://www.baldengineer.com/measuring-a-mosfets-miller-plateau-workbench-wednesdays-25.md): Turning 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… - [No-Contact Current Measurements | Workbench Wednesday #24](https://www.baldengineer.com/no-contact-current-measurements-workbench-wednesday-24.md): One 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,… - [What that DMM Beep Means - A Continuity Mode Tutorial | Workbench Wednesdays #23](https://www.baldengineer.com/what-that-dmm-beep-means-a-continuity-mode-tutorial-workbench-wednesdays-23.md): Chances 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,… - [Instrument Basics: LCR Meter | Workbench Wednesdays #22](https://www.baldengineer.com/instrument-basics-lcr-meter-workbench-wednesdays-22.md): Learn how to use an LCR meter, such as the Tenma (https://www.element14.com/community/view-product.jspa?fsku=2667184&nsku=NULL&COM=noscript), to measure reactive components. An… - [DMM Half-Digits Explained | Workbench Wednesdays #21](https://www.baldengineer.com/dmm-half-digits-explained-workbench-wednesdays-21.md): What 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… - [Thermal Tools for Circuit Measurements | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/thermal-tools-circuit-measurements.md): Digital multimeters are the go-to tool for measurements. Learn the DMM basics with this Bald Engineer video tutorial. It covers voltage, current, and more. - [DMM Basics Video Tutorial | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/dmm-basics-video-tutorial.md): Digital multimeters are the go-to tool for measurements. Learn the DMM basics with this Bald Engineer video tutorial. It covers voltage, current, and more. - [4-Wire Resistance Tutorial | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/4-wire-resistance-tutorial.md): Why do some multimeters have extra banana jacks for 4-wire resistance measurements? This method accurately measures resistors less than 100 ohms. - [Digilent Analog Discovery 2 Review | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/digilent-analog-discovery-2-review.md): The Analog Discover 2 is an all-in-one measurement device powered by USB. Carry an entire electronnic workbench in your pocket. See what I think about it. - [Function Generator Basics | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/function-generator-basics.md): Function Generators create waveforms for use in circuits. You can create a clock, test a filter, or see if an oscilloscope works correctly. - [Logic Analyzer Basics | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/logic-analyzer-on-wbw.md): Logic analyzers display the ones and zeros of a digital system. Modern logic analyzers are USB-based. See how to use one in this tutorial. - [Spectrum Analyzer Basics | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/spectrum-analyzer-basics.md): Learn the four basic controls you need to use to make measurements with any spectrum analyzer. You'll also see some advanced measurements as well. - [Electronic Load Basics | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/electronic-load-basics.md): Learn how to use an electronic load as a constant current, voltage, and resistance source in this short element14 tutorial by the bald engineer. - [Bench Power Supply Basics | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/bench-power-supply-basics.md): A bench power supply is a must-have for any electronics workbench. There is more to them than just turning the knob. Get their basics down with this video. - [DCA Pro Transistor Tester Review | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/dca-pro-review-tests-transistors.md): The DCA Pro from PEAK Electronics makes semiconductor, or transistor, measurements a snap. Find pinouts, get the hFE, or see if a part is good. - [7+ Python Engineering Modules for Electronics Engineers](https://www.baldengineer.com/7-python-engineering-modules.md): Here are seven python engineering modules that help to design electronics. You can describe a schematic, simulate a node, and calculate values with these. - [Hakko FX-888D Review](https://www.baldengineer.com/hakko-fx-888d-review.md): \ My friend Pablo recently upgraded his firestarter iron to a Hakko FX-888D. Because of its popularity and his relative newness to the iron, I asked if he'd like to write up a… - [Measuring ESR with the PEAK ESR70 | Workbench Wednesdays Review](https://www.baldengineer.com/esr70-measures-esr.md): Reviewing the PEAK ESR70. It is a compact instrumament that measures a cap's capactiance and ESR. Plus ,it can work while the capacitor is still in-circuit. - [Raspberry Pi 4 Armchair Datasheet Evaluation](https://www.baldengineer.com/raspberry-pi-4-armchair-datasheet-evaluation.md): With the introduction of the Raspberry Pi 4, I dug into the announcement and datasheet while waiting for mine to arrive. Well, "datasheet" might be an exaggeration, but there… - [Introducing Bit Preserve](https://www.baldengineer.com/bit-preserve-vintage-schematics-with-kicad.md): PDF schematics are great, blut tough to work with. Bit Preserve is a project to capture vintage electronics (computers and video game) schematics in KiCad - [Bald Engineer's ESD Must-Haves | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/bald-engineer-esd-must-haves.md): ESD can destory devices, circuits, or even components. Prevent this dangerous discharge by equipping your bench with the right equipment. - [New Arduino Nano board from Maker Faire 2019](https://www.baldengineer.com/new-arduino-nano-boards-from-mfba-2019.md): I had the chance to spend some time with the Arduino team before and during Maker Faire Bay Area 2019. I also attended Massimo's "State of Arduino" talk. In short, there are… - [6 things I learned about KiCad at KiCon 2019](https://www.baldengineer.com/6-things-i-learned-about-kicad-at-kicon-2019.md): In April 2019, hardware hackers, hobbyist, and engineers joined together for the first KiCon. A couple of people asked me, "why is there a conference for KiCad?" Some… - [Tenma 72-2660 Portable Hand Held Supply | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/tenma-72-2660-supply-review.md): The Tenma 72-2660 portable power supply features variable voltage, variable current limiting, and USB support. Bald Engineer reviews it in this video. - [Health and Solder Fumes | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/health-and-solder-fumes-workbench-wednesdays.md): An 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… - [7 MOSFET Myths and Misconceptions Addressed](https://www.baldengineer.com/7-mosfet-myths-and-misconceptions-addressed.md): The most popular AddOhms video is my short tutorial on (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrvvkYTW_0k). In the years since I posted the video, people have sent me many questions.… - [Preserving history with KiCad - KiCon 2019](https://www.baldengineer.com/preserving-history-with-kicad-kicon-2019.md): \ https://www.slideshare.net/baldengineer/preserving-history-with-kicad\ Classic, vintage, or retro computer systems are well documented on sites like Wikipedia. Their historic… - [Low side vs. High side transistor switch](https://www.baldengineer.com/low-side-vs-high-side-transistor-switch.md): When using a transistor as a switch, there are two configurations to consider. Do you use a low-side or a high-side transistor switch? And why? - [KiCon 2019 - Preserving history with KiCad](https://www.baldengineer.com/kicon-2019-preserving-history-with-kicad.md): Bald Engineer is speaking at the first KiCad confererence, KiCon 2019. His talk is the importance of preserving historic schematics in a readable format. - [High-end Oscilloscope report on Evaluation Engineering](https://www.baldengineer.com/high-end-oscilloscope-report-on-evaluation-engineering.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/high-end-oscilloscopes-evaluation-engineering.jpg)](https://www.evaluationengineering.com/instrumentation/oscilloscopes/article/21071056/special-rep… - [Surface Mount Rework Tools | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/surface-mount-rework-tools-workbench-wednesdays.md): In this (https://www.element14.com/community/docs/DOC-91429/l/workbench-wednesday-05-surface-mount-rework-tools), I review tools provided by Weller which are suitable for… - [Polymer Capacitor Introduction on e14s The Learning Circuit](https://www.baldengineer.com/polymer-capacitor-introduction-on-e14s-the-learning-circuit.md): If I were a professional actor, I would feel typecast at this point in my career. Whenever someone wants to talk about Arduino, Oscilloscopes or Capacitors, they call me! In… - [Soldering Tool Upgrade Paths | Workbench Wednesdays](https://www.baldengineer.com/soldering-tool-upgrade-paths.md): Right 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… - [Answering BJT questions with Karen on element14's The Learning Circuit](https://www.baldengineer.com/bjt-questions-element14-tlc.md): Over on (https://www.element14.com/) Karen hosts (https://www.element14.com/community/community/experts/benheck/thelearningcircuit). It is a tutorial show geared towards… - [Connect pins with KiCad Bus, Labels, and Global Labels](https://www.baldengineer.com/kicad-bus-labels-and-global-labels.md): \ 2020-04-04: This tutorial is based on KiCad 5. With KiCad 6, the bus feature works a little different (so I'm told.)\ When your schematic has a large number of related… - [What is the Apple IIgs? - AddOhms Live Clip](https://www.baldengineer.com/what-is-the-apple-iigs.md): During a live stream, I was asked: "What is the Apple IIgs?" In this (https://www.twitch.tv/videos/337742621), I answer the question. The Apple IIgs was the last of the highly… - [Creating Custom KiCad Schematic Symbol in 5 Steps](https://www.baldengineer.com/custom-kicad-schematic-symbol.md): Don't get overwhelmed with KiCad. Creating a custom KiCad schematic symbol by following these 5 easy steps. You'll have a custom library in no time. - [Drawing Apple MEGA-II Breakout in KiCad](https://www.baldengineer.com/drawing-apple-mega-ii-breakout-in-kicad.md): There is a project that has been sitting on my "to do" list for too long. My lab notebook has several dedicated pages for it. But I have not made progress. I decided to take… - [How to pick from all the Arduino boards](https://www.baldengineer.com/how-to-pick-from-all-the-arduino-boards.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Pick-an-Arduino-1024x531.jpg)](https://blog.hackster.io/picking-the-right-arduino-341a0a9550c7) Looking through my parts boxes, I have counted at… - [Arduino millis() plus addition does not add up](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-millis-plus-addition-does-not-add-up.md): When using Arduino millis(), you need to use subtraction. Here's a common fault I see where addition will fail roll over (and how to avoid it.) - [Penguin Bot from elegoo hands-on review of the kit build](https://www.baldengineer.com/penguin-bot-from-elegoo-hands-on-review-of-the-kit-build.md): When you combine an Arduino and Servo motor you get a robot. Add some music and a cute face, and you get the adorable dancing Penguin Bot. A robot kit. - [Learn Oscilloscope Basics with an Arduino Uno](https://www.baldengineer.com/learn-oscilloscope-basics-with-an-arduino-uno.md): Learning to use a new oscilloscope can be daunting. In this video, I show 5 measurements you can make using just an Arduino as your DUT. Learn how to offset voltage, setup… - [Bank to the Future on element14 presents](https://www.baldengineer.com/bank-to-the-future-on-element14-presents.md): &t=12s Making tutorial videos and project videos is a very different process. It is very easy to script a tutorial. In fact, I think it is a necessary step. Project videos, on… - [Arduino MKR Vidor 4000 Hands-On](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-mkr-vidor-4000-hands-on.md): Earlier this week, I looked at the (/videos/mkr-4000-vidor-hands-on-video). My goal was to understand the Vidor better. It is the new FPGA-based Arduino which started shipping… - [MKR 4000 VIDOR Hands-On Video | AddOhms Live](https://www.baldengineer.com/mkr-4000-vidor-hands-on-video.md): As promised, the Arduino team shipped the MKR 4000 VIDOR by the end of July. The graphical editor is still missing in action, but you can check out the board now. I received… - [Standalone Arduino Turn-On and Debug](https://www.baldengineer.com/standalone-arduino-turn-on-and-debug.md): The Pyramiduino gets populated, reflow soldered, and turned-on. Learn how to debug a standalone Arduino and program a boot loader in this AddOhms project.. - [Five Arduino math fixes for when it is wrong](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-math-fixes.md): While the Arduino library does an excellent job of hiding some of C/C++'s warts, at the end of the day, it is still just C/C++. This fact causes a few non-intuitive issues for… - [Arduino EEPROM stores any datatype](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-eeprom-stores-any-datatype.md): Funny how a simple idea can spider out into multiple paths. Arduino EEPROM seemed like a straightforward concept. A few a years ago it was as easy as having either 512 or 1024… - [Programming Adafruit Coin Acceptor on AddOhms Live](https://www.baldengineer.com/programming-adafruit-coin-acceptor-on-addohms-live.md): This week the bald engineer unboxes swag from (http://electromaker.io/), programs the (https://www.adafruit.com/product/787), with a… - [Learn Six Oscilloscope Measurements with an Arduino DUT](https://www.baldengineer.com/six-oscilloscope-measurements-using-arduino.md): Grab an Arduino Uno and follow these 6 oscilloscope measurements to learn how to use your scope. Tutorial covers triggers, measurements, and persistence. - [5 LDO Regulator Considerations other than voltage and current](https://www.baldengineer.com/5-ldo-regulator-considerations.md): Understanding how to choose an LDO regulator goes beyond voltage and current. I misread a sentence on a datasheet for one, which resulted in it being permanently disabled.… - [Creating an AddOhms Animations - Behind The Scenes](https://www.baldengineer.com/creating-addohms-animations.md): Pretty often I am asked about how I create the AddOhms animations. Currently, I'm working on the final part of the DIY Arduino Series. In the first part, I showed the elements… - [Maker Faire 2018, Bald Engineer's Highlights](https://www.baldengineer.com/maker-faire-2018-baldengineer-highlights.md): The Bay Area Maker Faire 2018 is one of my favorite shows to attend. This year I saw a quantum computer, tons of robots, experiments for space, and a bunch of other amazing… - [Bay Area Maker Faire 2018 Photo Gallery](https://www.baldengineer.com/bay-area-maker-faire-2018-photo-gallery.md): With the Bay Area Maker Faire over, I'm wrapping up my coverage with a photo gallery of my favorites. Some of these have been covered in my other (/tag/maker-faire-2018). So… - [5 Unexpected Brands at Maker Faire 2018](https://www.baldengineer.com/5-unexpected-brands-at-maker-faire-2018.md): Maker Faire, like any festival, is a combination of passion products, startups, and larger companies generating awareness. As I walked around, I noticed many logos and brands.… - [Arduino Uno WiFi Rev 2 Features I noticed](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-uno-wifi-rev-2-features-i-noticed.md): The new Arduino Uno WiFi Rev 2 updates the 8-bit family of boards with the new Microchip ATMEGA4809. 5 volt, 16 MHz, and a unique header pin layout are the only things in… - [MKR Vidor 4000 brings FPGA to Makers](https://www.baldengineer.com/mkr-vidor-4000-brings-fpga-to-makers.md): Arduino announced several new products at the (https://makerfaire.com/bay-area/). One of those products is the MKR Vidor 4000, an FPGA-based board. You can read their official… - [Picking Pull-Up Resistor Value | AO #25](https://www.baldengineer.com/picking-pull-up-resistor-value.md): How you pick a pull-up resistor value and why can't you just use a wire? This AddOhms electronics tutorial video dives into the range to pick from. - [Oscilloscope Probes Primer - Why so many types?](https://www.baldengineer.com/oscilloscope-probes-primer.md): Need to measure your circuit with a scope? Here's a quick guide to the most common different types of oscilloscope probes available. With this primer you'll know why you should… - [EAGLE 9 First Look - Couple of things I noticed](https://www.baldengineer.com/eagle-9-first-look.md): EAGLE 9 is Autodesk's latest version of the infamous ECAD package. The Bald Engineer goes through basics and checks out significant features of this release. It's been almost… - [FPC1500 Review, a Rohde & Schwarz Spectrum Analyzer](https://www.baldengineer.com/fpc1500-review.md): A R&S FPC1500 review. This instruament combines a spectrum analyzer, RF signal source, and Vector Network Analyzer into one low-cost package. If you're ready to enter the… - [IoT: Intelligent Outsourcing](https://www.baldengineer.com/iot-intelligent-outsourcing.md): Outsourcing gets a bad rep. Instead, think of it as Delegation. Here's how a distribution partner can help you ship your IoT product faster and cheaper than if you try to… - [Weller Zero Smog EL Review on element14](https://www.baldengineer.com/weller-zero-smog-el-review.md): After years of smell solder fumes, I tried out a Weller Zero Smog EL fume extractor. The way I solder has been changed for forever. - [DIY Arduino PCB Pryamiduino (Video)](https://www.baldengineer.com/diy-arduino-pcb-pryamiduino.md): Creating a KiCad PCB can be challenging. Here is how the Bald Engineer creates an Arduino Nano in the shape of a Pyramid. His name for it? The Pryamiduino! - [Debug SONOFF AC Relay with a Thermal Camera](https://www.baldengineer.com/debug-sonoff-ac-relay-thermal-camera.md): My recent SONOFF WiFi Switch experience reminded me of something from high school. I attended an off-site electronics class with my best friend. As teenage boys, we were prone… - [Circuit Python adds Python to Microcontrollers](https://www.baldengineer.com/circuit-python.md): Back in 2013, a Kickstarter ran for a project to put a python interpreter on a microcontroller. At the time I could not see the benefit. Cool project, but I asked myself:… - [Hologram.io connects Adafruit FONA](https://www.baldengineer.com/hologram-io-connects-fona-mqtt.md): While the buzzword "IoT "is relatively new, there has been a long time "internet of things" in operation. Those devices are called the far less sexy term "M2M" or… - [Signetics Write Only Memory 25120 Datasheet](https://www.baldengineer.com/signetics-write-memory-25120-datasheet.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Signetics-25120-Page-1-torn.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/25120-bw.pdf) Signetics started as an IC manufacturer. In 1975 they were bought by… - [Live millis() tutorial: AddOhms Live #5](https://www.baldengineer.com/live-millis-tutorial-addohms-live-5.md): &t=158s When it is time to move away from delay(), it's time to learn how to properly use millis(). If you've had trouble following my millis() examples, maybe a live tutorial… - [Adafruit Feather Review and Selection Guide](https://www.baldengineer.com/adafruit-feather-review.md): Four days ago, I found out I needed to make a piece of a costume. The idea was to combine a TFT LCD with a microcontroller and Bluetooth Low Energy. I checked my… - [DIY Arduino Schematic board and Checklist](https://www.baldengineer.com/diy-arduino-schematic-checklist.md): If you are doing a DIY Arduino board or embedded your project into a custom PCB, here's the things to consider and what not to forget. Both video and written tutorial. - [What is the Bald Engineer doing?](https://www.baldengineer.com/what-is-the-bald-engineer-doing.md): ! (/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1ECD3721-57DF-474D-9ACC-FA823E6C01A8-1024x574.jpeg) The next (https://youtube.com/addohms) is how to design a DIY Arduino board. What are the… - [Unboxing Hackerboxes and more Q&A on AddOhms Live](https://www.baldengineer.com/unboxing-hackerboxes.md): \ \ Watch Archived Video: Unboxing Hackerboxes \ Over the past year, I have been a (https://hackerboxes.com). When the first couple arrived, I opened them up immediately. In… - [2017's Best Bald Engineer Tutorials, Articles, and Reviews](https://www.baldengineer.com/2017-bald-engineer-reviews.md): Look back at the most popular Bald Engineer Tutorials, Articles, and Reviews from 2017. Popularity is based on almost 2 million page impressions. - [7 Arduino LCD display tips and tricks](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-lcd-display-tips.md): 7 tips and tricks for driving a Arduino LCD Display like the common 2x20 and 4x20 screens. Learn how to use a buffer, sprintf(), and printing floats! - [Crazy Circuits Hands-On and Q&A (AddOhms Live!)](https://www.baldengineer.com/crazy-circuits-hands-on.md): Watch a 30 minute hands-on with the Crazy Circuits LEGO compatible kit. Afterwards James answers electronics (and capacitors questions.) - [Arduino Keyboard Matrix Code and Hardware Tutorial](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-keyboard-matrix-tutorial.md): A Keyboard Matrix adds a bunch of buttons to your project without burning up all of your I/O pins. Here's how to build a pushbutton matrix for an Arduino. - [Open Source Hardware Summit 2017 Recap](https://www.baldengineer.com/open-source-hardware-summit-2017-recap.md): This year Denver hosted the 2017 Open Source Hardware Summit. It's a one-day seminar with talks, demos, and a couple of drinks. The day after the official show Sparkfun and… - [PicoScope 2204A Review on element14](https://www.baldengineer.com/picoscope-2204a-review-element14.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/picoscope-2204a-on-element14-1024x633.jpg)](https://www.element14.com/community/roadTestReviews/2530/l/picoscope-2204a-usb-oscilloscope-review)… - [Aluminum Polymer Capacitors on EE Journal's Chalk Talk](https://www.baldengineer.com/aluminum-polymer-capacitors.md): Learn about Aluminum Polymer Capacitors from James at KEMET in this EE Journal Chalk Talk. This video is co-sponsored by Mouser Electronics. - [Voltage Dividers as Regulators?! | AddOhms #22](https://www.baldengineer.com/voltage-dividers-as-regulators.md): Can you use voltage dividers as regulators? In this AddOhms Episode James shows what happens with both a resistor divider and a Zener divider. - [FleaFPGA Ohm is a crowdsource project worth considering](https://www.baldengineer.com/fleafpga-ohm-campaign.md): The FleaFPGA Ohm is a compact FPGA development board. It's being backed by enthusiast on Indigogo. Here are answers to the questions I had. - [Op Amp Circuits by Bob Pease](https://www.baldengineer.com/op-amp-circuits-bob-pease.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/TI-AN-31-Torn-Paper.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/TI-AN-31-Torn-Paper.jpg) Op amps are one of the most versatile ICs in electronics. A purely… - [Zener diode makes for a lousy regulator](https://www.baldengineer.com/zener-diode-regulators.md): A Zener Diode makes for a lousy voltage regulator, but an excellent voltage reference. Here's what happens when you try to regulate an ESP8266 with a Zener. - [Op Amps featuring the XL741 (and Q&A) on AddOhms Live!](https://www.baldengineer.com/op-amps-featuring-xl741-qa-addohms-live.md): \ Download AddOhms Live iCal Reminder\ Sunday September 24, 2017, I will host the 2nd live stream of AddOhms. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfcf317-KZs&t=112s) was a test… - [PicoScope 2204 Review and Hands-On](https://www.baldengineer.com/picoscope-2204-review.md): Quick Hands-On and PicoScope 2204 Review. My first impressions of this portable 10 MHz USB oscilloscope. It has some great software features for 140 bucks. - [Enterprise SSD Capacitor Chalk Talk](https://www.baldengineer.com/enterprise-ssd-capacitor-chalk-talk.md): &t=69s In this video, I discuss considerations for SSD Capacitors, with a focus on enterprise applications. (No, not the ship kind, the business kind.) As more consumer devices… - [5 Voltage divider circuits that go beyond dividing](https://www.baldengineer.com/5-voltage-divider-circuits.md): Turns out, voltage dividers aren't just for dividing. Here are five Voltage Divider Circuits that give this simple circuit a lot of functionality. - [Pi Cap Hands On Review](https://www.baldengineer.com/pi-cap-hands-review.md): Pi Cap adds capacitive touch buttons to your Raspberry Pi project. Here are a few things to know before you buy one. (And a warning.) - [Brushless DC Motor Introduction | AddOhms #21](https://www.baldengineer.com/brushless-dc-motor-introduction.md): This AddOhms Tutorial looks at a Brushless DC Motor and how to control it. These motors spin faster and last longer than cheaper Brushed motors. - [Top of the P(acq) - Oscilloscope Talk](https://www.baldengineer.com/top-of-the-pacq-oscilloscope-talk.md): James, the bald engineer, giving a talk on oscilloscopes with a specific focus on how a digital oscilloscope's triggers work. - [Aeroscope Review](https://www.baldengineer.com/aeroscope-review.md): This Aeroscope Review answers whether you can replace your bench scope with this single channel Bluetooth-based instrument. - [PWM a 3-pin PC fan with an Arduino](https://www.baldengineer.com/pwm-3-pin-pc-fan-arduino.md): Use a PNP transistor to PWM a 3-pin PC Fan with an Arduino. Because of how PNP transistors work, you'll need to use a NPN driver as well. - [Oscilloscope Triggering: HDDG #22 Presentation](https://www.baldengineer.com/oscilloscope-triggering-hddg-22.md): During #22 of the (https://www.meetup.com/Hardware-Developers-Didactic-Galactic/) meetup, I discussed Oscilloscopes. (Previously (/videos/they-are-just-capacitors).) In the… - [Raspberry Pi Startup Script Tutorial](https://www.baldengineer.com/raspberry-pi-startup-script-tutorial.md): The only correct Raspberry Pi Startup Script Tutorial. Also, covers how to run a program at shutdown and how to monitor a GPIO pin to shut down a Pi. - [Signals Abound - #22 Hardware Developers Didactic Galactic](https://www.baldengineer.com/signals-abound-hddg-22.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hddg22-banner.png)](https://www.meetup.com/Hardware-Developers-Didactic-Galactic/events/241020075/) Oscilloscopes belong on the desk of every… - [Soft Power Controller State Machine](https://www.baldengineer.com/software-power-controller-state-machine.md): Previously I looked at the hardware needed to build a Raspberry Pi soft power supply. This week I'm looking the state machine for the microcontroller. Why is such a complicated… - [Raspberry Pi Soft Power Controller - The Circuit](https://www.baldengineer.com/raspberry-pi-soft-power-controller-circuit.md): Build an Arduino-based raspberry pi soft power controller, that draws (almost) no current when off. This first part of the tutorial describes the circuit. - [Share projects on one of these 4 platforms](https://www.baldengineer.com/share-projects-four-platforms.md): When you share projects with others, you contribute to the open source hardware community. Consider sharing on one of these 4 platforms. - [Detect short and long button press using millis](https://www.baldengineer.com/detect-short-long-button-press.md): Detect short and long button press using millis. This code can be used as-is or you can use the line-by-line explanation to understand millis better. - [7805 is at the heart of a Super Famicom / Super NES](https://www.baldengineer.com/7805-heart-super-famicom-super-nes.md): When I made the AddOhms Tutorial on Linear Regulators, I made a comment about the 7805. I said it may be one of the most important Integrated Circuits (ICs) ever made. That's a… - [Best Sorting Resistors Method](https://www.baldengineer.com/sorting-resistors.md): Need help sorting resistors? Here's how the bald engineer sorts a random pile of resistors into an easy to find system. Tutorial includes free downloads! - [Arduino Data Logger: Serial Monitor Alternatives](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-data-logger-options.md): Don't use the serial monitor to create an Arduino data logger. These alternatives: SD Cards, PuTTY, screen, MQTT, and Python at work better to capture data. - [Sending simple serial commands to an Arduino](https://www.baldengineer.com/simple-serial-commands-arduino.md): Sending simple serial commands to an Arduino is the easiest way to communicate between an Arduino and a computer. The computer could be a PC, a Raspberry Pi, or any device that… - [Multiple MQTT Topics with Arduino PubSubClient](https://www.baldengineer.com/multiple-mqtt-topics-pubsubclient.md): In my (/mqtt-tutorial.html), I kept things simple by only subscribing to a single topic. One of the strengths of (/mqtt-introduction.html) is that a device can subscribe (or… - [Why ceramic capacitors change capacitance](https://www.baldengineer.com/ceramic-capacitors-change-capacitance.md): It is commonly known that ceramic capacitors change capacitance with applied voltage. What isn't always as well known is how strong this effect can be and why it occurs. At… - [2016 Great Year for Enginerds](https://www.baldengineer.com/2016-great-year-enginerds.md): While many want to call 2016 the worst year ever, I feel that is an entirely undeserved title. It certainly could have been a better year, but it wasn't the worst that I can… - [Ripping apart soda cans with an Electromagnet](https://www.baldengineer.com/ripping-apart-soda-cans-electromagnet.md): ArcAttack is a band that performs at the (http://makerfaire.com/bay-area/), among other places. They feature massive signing Telsa coils. (Here's a video I show when I saw… - [Wolfenstein 3D on Gameboy Color](https://www.baldengineer.com/wolfenstein-3d-gameboy-color.md): \ (http://store.steampowered.com/app/2270/) defined the FPS genre in a way no one could have predicted. Just like the (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Game_Boy) defined portable… - [If the Moon Were Only 1 Pixel](https://www.baldengineer.com/moon-1-pixel.md): ## A tediously accurate scale model of the solar system… - [Mooshimeter Review - Smartphone Multimeter](https://www.baldengineer.com/mooshimeter-review.md): For fifteen years I used my (/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/22-168a-owners-manual.pdf) as my go-to meter. A couple of years ago I bought a (http://amzn.to/2h0KIIT). Not because… - [Fading LED: analogWrite millis() Example](https://www.baldengineer.com/fading-led-analogwrite-millis-example.md): Fading a LED with analogWrite. A quick explanation of how to add a fading LED to your Arduino code without using delay(). - [Insert Caption Here](https://www.baldengineer.com/insert-caption-here.md): # (/?post_type=photo&p=6260\#respond) Took this screenshot while I waited for the (http://addohms.com/qa02) to finish rendering. What could I be pondering? - [Electron Microscope Analyzing Vinyl Records (and other Spinning Media)](https://www.baldengineer.com/electron-microscope-analyzing-spinning-media.md): (https://twitter.com/BenKrasnow) from (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCivA7_KLKWo43tFcCkFvydw) uses his Electron Microscope to compare spinning media. The part of the video… - [Neil deGrasse Tyson's 4th Nerdist Interview](https://www.baldengineer.com/neil-degrasse-tyson-4th-nerdist-interview.md): You are probably familiar with (https://twitter.com/neiltyson). He is as brilliant as he is entertaining. That fact is why I was so excited when I saw his name pop-up on my… - [Measure PWM Current with a Modified Moving Average](https://www.baldengineer.com/measure-pwm-current.md): This tutorial explains how to measure PWM current and voltage, using a Modified Moving Average (MMA) algorithm. Suitable for Uno and ESP8266. - [Brushed DC Motor Video Tutorial](https://www.baldengineer.com/brushed-dc-motor-video-tutorial.md): Brushed DC Motor Video tutorial. Briefly explains what a *brushed* dc motor is and then explains a couple of ways to control them with an Arduino. - [Social Media Guide for Engineers, a How-To](https://www.baldengineer.com/social-media-guide-engineers.md): The first Social Media Guide for Engineers. Start becoming part of the conversation by saying nothing at all. Just listen, and follow these key people. - [3D Printer Tips I wish I knew 3 years ago](https://www.baldengineer.com/3d-printer-tips.md): 5 simply 3d printer tips I wish someone had told me (or I had listened to) a long time ago. Level bed is obvious, but there are 4 other critical tips. - [5 Common Arduino Programming Mistakes](https://www.baldengineer.com/5-common-arduino-programming-mistakes.md): Whenever someone sends me some code that doesn't work, there are a few common Arduino programming mistakes that I check. Some of these mistakes I make myself. In most cases my… - [3 Way Camera Shoe](https://www.baldengineer.com/3-way-camera-shoe.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/aa15c4f0d32956b47015505ad85ffe38_preview_featured-300x225.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/aa15c4f0d32956b47015505ad85ffe38_preview_featured-300x22… - [Test Equipment Alternatives (Suggested By You!)](https://www.baldengineer.com/test-equipment-alternatives.md): Limited budget? Need a quick test? Here are some test equipment alternatives to outfit your lab. Plus, these were suggested by subscribers! - [Adafruit Temperature Sensor Comparison](https://www.baldengineer.com/adafruit-temperature-sensor-comparison.md): 10 different sensors? This Adafruit Temperature Sensor Comparison provides all the main details you need to chose one for your project. - [IEEE EMC 2016 in Ottawa, ON](https://www.baldengineer.com/ieee-emc-2016-ottawa.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/emc2016-interior-header.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/emc2016-interior-header.jpg) The (http://www.emc2016.emcss.org) is sponsored by, no… - [Arduboy Review and Hands-On](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduboy-review-hands.md): In this Arduboy Review James looks at how this awesome board combines the simplicity of old-school 8-bit video games with the Arduino platform. - [Current Flow Direction](https://www.baldengineer.com/current-flow-direction.md): Current flow direction confusing you?. How did we get it wrong from the start, what is the right answer, any why stick with the old? This video explains. - [Arduino Bootloader, What is it?](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-bootloader.md): With each power-on the Arduino bootloader goes to work. But what does it do? How does it work? and why do you need it? A quick explanation from James. - [KiCad BOM: Don't Bomb your BOM!](https://www.baldengineer.com/kicad-bom-introduction.md): Don't gloss over details when drawing a KiCad Schematic. When you try to generate a KiCad BOM, you'll be sorry. Here's 3 methods to keep your BOM clean. - [They're JUST Capacitors?](https://www.baldengineer.com/they-are-just-capacitors.md): Think capacitors are a simple device? This capacitor talk by James Lewis might make you think differently. Shot at Supplyframe in San Francisco. - [6 Electronic Safety Tips I learned while Mountain Climbing](https://www.baldengineer.com/6-electronic-safety-tips.md): Electronic safety tips from mountain climbing? Here are 6 things I remembered about working with electronics while climbing Kampenwand in Bavaria. - [Baldengineer at PCIM 2016](https://www.baldengineer.com/pcim-2016.md): Come see the Bald Engineer at PCIM 2016 in Nuremberg Germany. This show is the largest power electronics show in the world. - [Four Current Flow Myths Addressed](https://www.baldengineer.com/current-flow-myths.md): Current flow direction isn't the only myth out there. Here's 4 other things to think about regarding electricity and current. - [Why do engineers (love to) hate Arduino?](https://www.baldengineer.com/engineers-hate-arduino.md): Do Engineers hate Arduino? Yes. Also, engineers love Arduino. Why? Let's look at a couple of common reasons for this misplaced hatred. - [Top 25 Websites, Tools and Resources for Hardware Startups](https://www.baldengineer.com/top-25-websites-tools-resources-hardware-startups.md): Check out (https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/270410). Hardware startups have the unique challenge of having to spend real money, to physical products, with the end product… - [Switching Voltage Regulator Tutorial](https://www.baldengineer.com/switching-voltage-regulator-tutorial-addohms.md): A switching voltage regulator is a very efficient way to convert from one DC voltage to another. This tutorial introduces switching regulator basics. - [Hands-on with Arduino Create and Arduino IoT](https://www.baldengineer.com/hands-arduino-create-arduino-iot.md): Arduino and Genuino have a new platform for your IoT projects: Arduino Create. Here's my first look at Arduino IoT and the new Arduino Project Hub. - [How to Turn Your Arduino Prototype Into a Manufacturable Product](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-prototype-into-product.md): \ This week's post is from my friend John Teel. I asked him to help answer a common question I receive: " _How do you make an Arduino project into a product_?" His experience… - [Energy Density of 9V battery vs. AA batteries](https://www.baldengineer.com/9v-battery-energy-density.md): The 9V battery sucks when it comes to energy density. In this post I compare them to the superior solution: 6AA batteries. - [Review of The Innovators: How a Group of Hackers, Geniuses, and Geeks Created the Digital Revolution](https://www.baldengineer.com/the-innovators.md): Twenty years ago, reading a blog post didn't exist. "The Innovators..." tells about the players involved with computers from Ada Lovelace to Eric Schmidt. - [KEMET Adds AEC-Q200 Capability](https://www.baldengineer.com/kemet-adds-aec-q200-capability-plus-higher-breakdown-voltages-polymer-electrolytic-capacitors.md): # KEMET Adds AEC-Q200 Capability… - [Chuck Norris On Pull-Up Resistors](https://www.baldengineer.com/chuck-norris-pull-resistors.md): Think you can do without Pull-Up Resistors? Only Chuck Norris doesn't need them. - [Logic Analyzer Tutorial and Introduction](https://www.baldengineer.com/logic-analyzer-tutorial-introduction.md): Simple overview of what a Logic Analyzer does, some considerations with when you to use one, and then give some terms to know when looking at them. - [Arduino to ESP8266, 5 reasons to switch](https://www.baldengineer.com/esp8266-5-reasons-to-use-one.md): Here's the 5 reasons the ESP8266 has become my go-to "Arduino" board. These features are enough or any project, not just IoT. - [MQTT Tutorial for Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and ESP8266](https://www.baldengineer.com/mqtt-tutorial.md): This week's MQTT Tutorial connects a Raspberry Pi, ESP8266 (or Arduino), and a PC together. Remember last week's post provided an overview of message broker - [Hardware Developers Didactic Galactic 0xb: Capacitors (HDDG11)](https://www.baldengineer.com/hddg11.md): Slides for the capacitor presentation at HDDG11. This session included a presentation by SnapEDA CEO on footprints and by me on Capacitors. - [MQTT Introduction and Tutorial Part One](https://www.baldengineer.com/mqtt-introduction.md): This MQTT Introduction shows why you should use message brokering in your Raspberry Pi and Arduino IoT Projects. - [HDDG #11 - Capacitors and Footprints](https://www.baldengineer.com/hddg-11-capacitors-and-footprints.md): James is speaking about capacitors at Hardware Developers Didactic Galactic (HDDG) #11 on Feburary 18, 2016. - [Raspberry Pi GUI Tutorial](https://www.baldengineer.com/raspberry-pi-gui-tutorial.md): Create a Raspberry Pi GUI using just Python and Qt5. This tutorial shows how to get up and running fast! - [Full Size LEGO BB-8 time lapse build by Bright Bricks](https://www.baldengineer.com/life-size-lego-bb-8-by-bright-bricks.md): Quick timelapse video of (http://bright-bricks.com) building a life-size BB-8 unit. Surprising to me was that I always imagined these builds solid with LEGO pieces. Turns out,… - [IoT: Internet Of Nothing](https://www.baldengineer.com/iot-internet-of-nothing.md): IoT (n): Internet of Things. No wait, it's the Internet of Nothing. Why can't two things talk to each other? - [Use Arduino millis() with buttons to delay events](https://www.baldengineer.com/use-millis-with-buttons-to-delay-events.md): Delay different events in your code by combining millis(), states, and flag variables in this line by line tutorial. - [Bald Engineer's Top 2015 Stuff](https://www.baldengineer.com/baldengineer-top-2015-posts.md): As 2015 wraps up, I took a look at baldengineer.com's traffic for the past year. Here's some of the most popular stuff from my blog, in case you missed it. Everyone with a blog… - [Is the Raspberry Pi Zero worth $5?](https://www.baldengineer.com/raspberry-pi-zero-is-not-worth-5-dollars.md): The Raspberry Pi Zero has the same processing capabilities as its predecessors and only costs $5! Does that make it a slam dunk? Well, here's a few applications to help decide… - [Getting PCBs from KiCad to X-Carve](https://www.baldengineer.com/kicad-to-x-carve-pcb-workflow.md): How do you get a PCB from KiCad to X-Carve? Here's an overview of the workflow for creating PCBs with open source tools. - [Need a G-code Viewer? Check out this Open Source CAM Simulator](https://www.baldengineer.com/open-source-gcode-viewer-camotics.md): gCode viewers are essential when doing anything with a CNC. Camotics is an open source gcode viewer. - [Four ESP8266 Gotchas and a tip for a first time users](https://www.baldengineer.com/four-esp8266-gotchas.md): Thinking about using an ESP8266? Check this list of 4 things to know, before using it in your project. - [2015 Holiday Gift Guide](https://www.baldengineer.com/2015-holiday-gift-guide.md): This week marks the start of the 2015 Holiday Shopping Season. Being a short week for me, I thought I'd offer up some gift suggestions for engineers. Being the only engineer in… - [The Martian](https://www.baldengineer.com/the-martian.md): (http://www.amazon.com/Martian-Andy-Weir/dp/0553418025) is an engineer's dream story. The story opens with Mark Watney being stranded on Mars after an accident occurs. The book… - [Difference between Programming and Native Ports](https://www.baldengineer.com/difference-between-programming-and-native-ports.md): Confused about the difference between programming and native ports on the Arduino Zero? Learn which to use when and why. - [Build a proper R-2R DAC](https://www.baldengineer.com/build-a-proper-r-2r-dac.md): R-2R DAC. What is a DAC? The letters stand for Digital to Analog Converter. An R-2R DAC is built using resistor ladders. - [FleaFPGA Introduction](https://www.baldengineer.com/fleafpga-introduction.md): "Build" your own chips with the FleaFPGA. New to FPGAs? Check out this tutorial of what they are and how to make your own chips with one. - [Learn the basics of Acrylic](https://www.baldengineer.com/learn-the-basics-of-acrylic.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/acrylic-differences-300x165.jpg)](http://makezine.com/2015/10/29/skill-builder-acrylic/) One of the most popular materials to use with a laser… - [A Whole New Engineer](https://www.baldengineer.com/a-whole-new-engineer.md): A couple of weeks ago I was invited to join (http://theengineeringcommons.com) to talk about (http://theengineeringcommons.com/episode-93-capacitors/). I had been a listener of… - [The Isolated Engineer](https://www.baldengineer.com/the-isolated-engineer.md): Guest post from Crash Bang Prototypes. Think you're isolated from engineering? Imagine being a maker, in Africa. - [Learn the difference between laser types](https://www.baldengineer.com/learn-the-difference-between-laser-types.md): One of the most versatile tools in a shop or makerspace is a laser cutter. The recently funded (http://glowforge.com) makes having one in your garage a possibility. With so… - [Print your own Graph Paper](https://www.baldengineer.com/print-your-own-graph-paper.md): Ever need graph paper for a project, but can't wait for Amazon Prime? This free online tool generates configurable graph paper on demand. - [Proper Larson Scanner with Software PWM (Repost)](https://www.baldengineer.com/proper-larson-scanner-with-sw-pwm.md): Larson Scanner tutorial for Arduino, using only millis() and micros(). No delays here. 20+ I/O Pins Supported. - [Additive Manufacturing (aka 3D Printing) Infographic](https://www.baldengineer.com/additive-manufacturing-infographic.md): Shapeways put together this incredible infographic on Additive Manufacturing (aka 3D Printing.) - [Capacitor Interview on The Engineering Commons Podcast](https://www.baldengineer.com/capacitor-interview-on-the-engineering-commons-podcast.md): In Episode 93 of The Engineering Commons, the guys interview the bald engineer (James) about Capacitors! - [Huge archive from Project Apollo now on Flickr](https://www.baldengineer.com/project-apollo-now-on-flickr.md): The Project Apollo Photo Archive is a curated Flickr collection of NASA photographs and related Apollo mission history. - [The War On Science - AsapSCIENCE](https://www.baldengineer.com/the-war-on-science-asapscience.md): The latest video from (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC552Sd-3nyi_tk2BudLUzA), (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8e1XX-ngJcc), addresses the preverbal war between science and… - [Elegant and cheap storage solutions for your shop](https://www.baldengineer.com/elegant-and-cheap-storage-solutions-for-your-shop.md): The article caught my eye because I'm about to make a move, and I'll be setting up my shop soon. Seeing these clever alternate uses is already giving me some ideas. The perfect… - [Arduino Software PWM with millis()](https://www.baldengineer.com/software-pwm-with-millis.md): Use this Software PWM to turn any Arduino I/O pin into a PWM Pin. You can use all 20 I/O if you want! - [How Arduino digitalWrite Works – and why AVR is Faster](https://www.baldengineer.com/how-arduino-digitalwrite-works-and-why-avr-is-faster.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Cogs-Arduino-263x300-263x300.jpg)](http://www.crash-bang.com/arduino-digital-io/) Previously I looked at the… - [Build your own Ghostbusters Trap](https://www.baldengineer.com/build-your-own-ghostbusters-trap.md): Deck out the rest of your Ghostbuster gear with a Ghost Trap. (https://twitter.com/dustfilms) from (http://bit.ly/AWEsub) builds a trap in this quick 12-minute video. The build… - [EngineerDog explains why stressed plastic turns white](https://www.baldengineer.com/stressed-plastic-turns-white.md): Ever notice when you over-stress plastic, the stress points tend to turn white? The color or type of plastic doesn't seem to matter, does it? So what is going on? This awesome… - [My Modular Soldering Station for the Space Limited](https://www.baldengineer.com/my-modular-soldering-station-overview.md): Cramped workbench in need of a modular soldering station? Here's what the bald engineer does for his station using PanaVise. - [Capacitor reliability can be improved with the right materials](https://www.baldengineer.com/capacitor-reliability-can-be-improved-with-the-right-materials.md): ## Capacitor lifetime depends on the materials (/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/ceramic-capacitor-cutaway-300x157.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/ceramic-capacitor-cutaway.jpg)… - [Corner Case: 90-deg turns for WS2812](https://www.baldengineer.com/corner-case-90-deg-turns-for-ws2812.md): If you're working with the WS2812B and need to turn corners, you'll want to check out this… - [Makers keep your eyes out for these 8 "Trash" Types](https://www.baldengineer.com/8-trash-types-for-makers.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/computer-in-the-snow-300x239.jpg)](http://makezine.com/2015/09/04/trash-every-maker-should-be-stoked-to-score/) Dumpster diving can be a rewarding… - [Cool learning resource: KEMET Engineering Center](https://www.baldengineer.com/about-kemet-engineering-center.md): Questions about how to pick the right capacitor or when to use different types? Here's why KEMET Engineering Center is going to help. - [Review of EMSL's XL741](https://www.baldengineer.com/review-of-emsl-xl741.md): Learning about an LM741 is a lot of fun with EMSL's XL741 kit. See what I think about this fully functional super-sized op-amp. - [Periscope demo: Pros and Con](https://www.baldengineer.com/periscope-demo-pros-ands-con.md): Here's the good and bad a Periscope demo for your hardware project. It works, but you need to think ahead before hitting broadcast. - [Circuit Trading Cards Review](https://www.baldengineer.com/circuit-trading-cards-review.md): Want to brush up quickly on basic electronic circuits? Check out my review of these Circuit Trading Cards from Arachnid Labs. - [AddOhms #15: Pull-Up Resistors (and buttons)](https://www.baldengineer.com/addohms-15-pull-up-resistors-and-buttons.md): Pull-Up Resistors, can be a difficult topic for to understand. That's why I made this video. - [Blink without delay() explained line-by-line](https://www.baldengineer.com/blink-without-delay-explained.md): When your Arduino code needs to grow beyond using delay, most people turn to the blink without delay example. Here's how it works, one line at a time. - [Microcontroller state machine with enum tutorial](https://www.baldengineer.com/state-machine-with-enum-tutorial.md): Most Arduino projects will benefit from using a state machine with enum. This tutorial shows how to create a simple one. - [Benchmarking Arduino's digitalWrite() with a Logic Analyzer](https://www.baldengineer.com/digitalwrite-on-a-logic-analyzer.md): Arduino's digitalWrite() is a great function, but slow with multiple pins. Check out these measurements comparing digitalWrite to direct PORT-access. - [Engineers](https://www.baldengineer.com/engineers.md): Found this one while going through some old files. One of my favorite volunteering activities is introducing kids to engineering. After judging a FIRST competition, I learned… - [Flag variables are not evil (for Microcontrollers)](https://www.baldengineer.com/flag-variables-are-not-evil-for-microcontrollers.md): In embedded programming, flag variables are a common practice. Here are some examples for Arduino and LaunchPad. - [P-Channel MOSFET Tutorial with only Positive Voltages](https://www.baldengineer.com/p-channel-mosfet-tutorial-with-only-positive-voltages.md): Quick explanation on using only positive voltages in this p-channel MOSFET tutorial - [Which Arduino Starter Kit is the Best?](https://www.baldengineer.com/which-arduino-starter-kit-is-the-best.md): Ready to dive into electronics and Arduino? Wondering which arduino starter kit to buy? Check out these 4 mini-reviews on the most popular kits. - [Check out the 240p Test Suite](https://www.baldengineer.com/check-out-the-240p-test-suite.md): Learned about it in this video from the YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpvtp7mH0Cdq8FQUxcjDq0Q). Some of their videos are a bit more technical than the… - [The Bernoulli Box - Where Physics Met Storage](https://www.baldengineer.com/the-bernoulli-box-where-physics-met-storage.md): Back in the 1990s, a 1.44mb floppy disk was a reasonable storage size for most documents. For bigger documents or backing up an internal hard drive, other options were… - [How to find parts for your electronics projects and designs](https://www.baldengineer.com/how-to-find-parts.md): There are a couple of places that can answer the question: how to find parts for your project. This list goes over those with idea of when to use which. - [Machine Learning with Super Mario Brothers](https://www.baldengineer.com/machine-learning-with-super-mario-brothers.md): Using a learning algorithm known as NEAT, this Super Mario World play through is an example of a machine learning how to beat the level on its own. Using an evolutionary… - [Control a Rigol Scope with Linux](https://www.baldengineer.com/control-a-rigol-scope-with-linux.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/qrigol-waveform-plot-e1434838160267.png)](https://github.com/wd5gnr/qrigol) The… - [X-Carve CNC Review and Hands-On with PCB Milling](https://www.baldengineer.com/x-carve-cnc-review.md): This X-Carve CNC Review goes one step further and talks about my hands-on experience with my first PCB milling attempt. - [How do you remove Jitter from a signal?](https://www.baldengineer.com/how-do-you-remove-jitter-from-a-signal.md): With decaffeinated Silicon. - [Get electronics help with the right question](https://www.baldengineer.com/get-electronics-help-with-the-right-question.md): Answers are easy to find, when you ask the right questions. These 4 tips will give you an edge in getting the electronics help your project needs. - [What's the difference between Series and Parallel Circuits?](https://www.baldengineer.com/series-and-parallel-circuits-tutorial.md): A basic skill in reading schematics is understanding the difference between series and parallel circuits. This tutorial covers this schematic basic. - [Add wireless with one of these five wireless modules](https://www.baldengineer.com/five-wireless-modules-for-wireless-projects.md): Check out this list of 5 wireless modules and reasons why you may or may not want them in your project. - [DIY Battery Powered Apple Watch Charger](https://www.baldengineer.com/diy-battery-powered-apple-watch-charger.md): Using an (https://www.adafruit.com/products/1944 "Ada Adafruit Battery Charger board"), a cut-up… - [Pushbutton and Flashing LED tutorial with millis()](https://www.baldengineer.com/pushbutton-and-flashing-led-tutorial-with-millis.md): As part of the baldengineer's millis() cookbook, this tutorial shows how to use a pushbutton to flash a LED - [Cutting Perfect Breadboard Jumper Wires](https://www.baldengineer.com/cutting-perfect-breadboard-jumper-wires.md): Learning to use breadboard jumper wires correctly is important. This video from Make is a great tutorial for beginners or advanced electronics hobbyist. - [Five ways to make a schematic (quickly)](https://www.baldengineer.com/five-ways-to-make-a-schematic-quickly.md): Need to make a schematic? Here's five tools that can help you... especially if you are in a hurry - [Learn Arduino Programming](https://www.baldengineer.com/learn-arduino-programming.md): When learning to use an Arduino, you have two things to learn: programming and hardware. In the past, I've taught some classes on how to program the Arduino. These are the… - [Getting started with Energia and the MSP430](https://www.baldengineer.com/getting-started-with-energia-and-the-msp430.md): An Open Source IDE for TI's line of MSP430-based boards. Based on the same software as the Arduino project, Energia brings easy of use to an awesome family of microcontrollers. - [Apple ][ Watch and It is Real](https://www.baldengineer.com/apple-watch-and-it-is-real.md): Today "regular" people will start receiving their pre-ordered Apple Watch. Whether they spent $350 or over $10,000 dollars, they'll now have a device that connects to their… - [Energia and MSP430: Arduino Alternative](https://www.baldengineer.com/energia-and-msp430-arduino-alternative.md): Energia and the MSP430 is one of the Arduino alternatives that packs a lot of punch in a small package. Check out my take on the board. - [Arduino pinMode on Analog Inputs](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-pinmode-on-analog-inputs.md): Quick tip on when you use pinMode with analog inputs on an Arduino board. - [An Open Letter to Arduino LLC and Arduino SRL #OneArduino](https://www.baldengineer.com/open-letter-to-arduino-llc-and-arduino-srl.md): Video Letter to the members of Arduino LLC and Arduino SRL from James, the baldengineer. - [Don't be afraid of learning a new tool](https://www.baldengineer.com/learning-a-new-tool.md): Sometimes as engineers we think that there is a sunk cost associated with learning a new tool. Here's an example where this limiting belief almost hurt me. - [Can a 1µF decoupling capacitor be too much?](https://www.baldengineer.com/a-1uf-decoupling-capacitor-is-too-much.md): A decoupling capacitor or two are important. Sometimes. Too much can actually hurt. Check out this simple test with a breadboard Arduino and a 100nF cap. - [Case Study in Optimization: Faster SPI on AVRs](https://www.baldengineer.com/case-study-in-optimization-faster-spi-on-avrs.md): The Arduino Library provides functions like (http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/shiftOut "Arduino reference for shiftOut()") and (http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/digitalWrite… - [Vintage Turntable Repaired with Arduino (via pitface123)](https://www.baldengineer.com/vintage-turntable-repaired-with-arduino-via-pitface123.md): element14 is running a (http://www.element14.com/community/community/design-challenges/enchanted-objects "More about element14's Enchanted Objects contest") called… - [Sleep Infographic Using Raspberry Pi and Fitbit API](https://www.baldengineer.com/sleep-infographic-using-raspberry-pi-and-fitbit-api.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/sleep_raspberrypi_infographic.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/sleep_raspberrypi_infographic.jpg) The (https://dev.fitbit.com "Fitbit API") allows… - [Check-out these seven new features in the Arduino 1.6 release](https://www.baldengineer.com/seven-new-features-in-arduino-1-6-release.md): Check out what 7 new features the baldengineer thinks about the Arduino 1.6 IDE release. Find out if you should upgrade. - [Arduino Compiler for LabVIEW](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-compiler-for-labview.md): So if you have a copy of LabVIEW with an Arduino on your desk, you might want to checkout the Arduino Compiler for LabVIEW. - [Video Review of NI's VirtualBench](https://www.baldengineer.com/video-review-of-virtualbench.md): See what the bald engineer thinks about VirtualBench in this review video. Spending some time with the VB gave me a chance to provide real feedback. - [Five Raspberry Pi Alternatives (via makeuseof)](https://www.baldengineer.com/5-raspberry-pi-alternatives.md): Want to learn a new board? Check out these 5 Raspberry Pi Alternatives. Maybe one will be a better fit of your awesome project. - [Awesome 3D Board (BRD) Viewer for EAGLE](https://www.baldengineer.com/awesome-3d-board-brd-viewer-for-eagle.md): Laying out a PCB in 2D sometimes leads to problems when the board comes back. This Cytec tool helps you visualize an EAGLE PCB in 3D. - [Come See The Baldengineer's Presentation at APEC 2015](https://www.baldengineer.com/baldengineer-presents-at-apec-2015.md): Meet the baldengineer and learn about Supercapacitors in the Transportation industry at APEC 2015 in Charolette, NC. - [Funny video from Rockwell Automation on their "Encabulator"](https://www.baldengineer.com/funny-video-from-rockwell-automation-on-their-encabulator.md): A comical video demonstration by Rockwell Automation on the technology of one of their cabinets. - [PCB Checklist - What to check before you submit](https://www.baldengineer.com/pcb-checklist-what-to-check-before-you-submit.md): Before submitting your PCB to OSH Park or Dirty PCBs, run through this tested PCB Checklist to make sure your board comes back in a usable state. - [Autorouters Suck: Autorouter: 0. Baldengineer: 1](https://www.baldengineer.com/autorouters-suck-autorouter-0-baldengineer-1.md): Never trust the autorouter. When laying out a PCB, sometimes it is better to just spend a few extra minutes and do it yourself. - [Check out a SDR based on the Teensy](https://www.baldengineer.com/check-sdr-based-teensy.md): Found rheslip's Open Emitter blog post on his Teensy based SDR Project. - [How 3D Printing Filament is Made](https://www.baldengineer.com/3d-printing-filament-made.md): Check out the process to make 3D Printing Filament from start to finish with makergeeks.com and Make. - [AddOhms Electronics Tutorials DVD Now Available](https://www.baldengineer.com/addohms-electronics-tutorials-dvd-now-available.md): The popular electronics tutorials from AddOhms are now available on DVD. This post introduces them and provides a link to the store on Tindie. - [ECN's 14 Best Engineering Shows on Netflix](https://www.baldengineer.com/ecns-14-best-engineering-shows-on-netflix.md): ECN Magazine has put together 14 Engineering Shows available on the streaming video service, Netflix. Looks like Mythbusters isn't the only option. - [Awesome Look at Olympic-Class ships (aka Titanic)](https://www.baldengineer.com/awesome-look-olympic-class-ships-aka-titanic.md): Bill Hammock looks at the Olympic-class ships, aka the Titanic in this excellent video. - [5 (Electrical) Engineering Podcasts You Should Subscribe](https://www.baldengineer.com/5-electrical-engineering-podcasts.md): Stay up to date with electrical engineering podcasts from the baldengineer's favorite producers. - [Review of NI's VirtualBench, All-In-One Instrument](https://www.baldengineer.com/review-nis-virtualbench-one-instrument.md): James gives a Baldengineer Review of the VirtualBench from National Instruments. - [PacMan theme in 10 different styles](https://www.baldengineer.com/pacman-theme-in-10-different-styles.md): In the mood for some retro game music? Check out D Wave's YouTube Channel for a fresh take on some retro game tunes. The PacMan melody is good. You might also like his take on… - [Help Adafruit test their #RaspberryPi Bootstrap](https://www.baldengineer.com/help-adafruit-test-raspberrypi-bootstrap.md): When you first get started with a Raspberry Pi, there are a number of operating system images already available. The one most people start with is (http://www.raspbian.org),… - [Neodymium Magnets - Will It Blend?](https://www.baldengineer.com/neodymium-magnets-will-blend.md): In this "Will It Blend?" Tom takes on neodymium magnet balls. This is a fun one to watch because the balls spark up while flying around. Some really good slow motion replay… - [Capacitor Questions Answered on The Spark Gap Podcast](https://www.baldengineer.com/capacitor-questions-answered-spark-gap-podcast.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/The_Spark_Gap-300x300.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/The_Spark_Gap.png) Karl and Corey run The Spark Gap Podcast which is focused on embedded… - [iCircuit's circuit simulator goes from iOS to Desktop](https://www.baldengineer.com/icircuits-circuit-simulation-moves-ios-desktop.md): Circuit simulation on the Mac just got Awesome with this great circuit simulator - [DIY Active Differential Probe Project](https://www.baldengineer.com/diy-active-differential-probe-project.md): Back when I worked for an Oscilloscope company, we were pretty proud of our differential probes. Even the "low-bandwidth" probes were still around 1GHz of bandwidth.… - [HPDisk - GPIB Disk Emulator](https://www.baldengineer.com/hpdisk-gpib-disk-emulator.md): Popular on eBay are old test equipment like Spectrum Analyzers, Oscilloscopes, and Multimeters. (http://www.dalton.ax/hpdisk/) by Gustafsson Anders creates a virtual… - [Bill Gates talks about the Altair 8800](https://www.baldengineer.com/bill-gates-talks-about-the-altair-8800.md): Go back to 1975. The idea of a computer at home was something that only happened in Science Fiction books. When the (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Altair_8800) was introduced,… - [Is Graphene Unobtanium?](https://www.baldengineer.com/graphene-unobtanium.md): Graphene is misunderstood by most, the baldengineer tries to break it down for all. - [10 Popular EAGLE Libraries](https://www.baldengineer.com/10-popular-eagle-libraries.md): Having good libraries in EAGLE is critical to making schematic capture and PCB design fast. Dave at… - [Role of EMI X1, X2, Y1, Y2 Capacitors Ratings](https://www.baldengineer.com/role-of-emi-x1-x2-y1-y2-capacitors-ratings.md): X2 Capacitor Ratings don't give the capacitor magical properties, instead, it means it is only safe for use in across-the-line applications. - [Captain Picard on Decoupling Caps](https://www.baldengineer.com/captain-picard-decoupling-caps.md): Fun with the meme generating. When it comes to (http://www.thebox.myzen.co.uk/Tutorial/De-coupling.html), Make It So. - [Space Invaders on Gecko EFM32](https://www.baldengineer.com/space-invaders-on-gecko-efm32.md): The (http://www.silabs.com/products/sensors/infraredsensors/Pages/zero-gecko-sensor-exp-evb.aspx "Zero Gecko Starter Kit with Weather Station Demo") from (http://www.silabs.com… - [Clean Ground Planes on DIY Boards](https://www.baldengineer.com/clean-ground-planes-on-diy-boards.md): If you're making your own PCB with the toner transfer method, you might find that getting nice clean ground planes is difficult. John on twitter (@… - [CES 2015 Highlights](https://www.baldengineer.com/ces-2015-highlights.md): An engineer's review of CES 2015. - [Eight Amazing Engineering Stories: Using the Elements to Create Extraordinary Technologies](https://www.baldengineer.com/eight-amazing-engineering-stories-using-the-elements-to-create-extraordinary-technologies.md): (http://www.engineerguy.com "Bill Hammock's Video and Audio on Engineering") podcast series was one of my first video podcast subscriptions. His explanation videos hit the… - [Capacitor innovations address emerging opportunities on PSD](https://www.baldengineer.com/capacitor-innovations-address-emerging-opportunities-on-psd.md): (http://www.powersystemsdesign.com/capacitor-innovations-address-emerging-opportunities) on some innovations (http://www.kemet.com/?utm_source=baldengineer) has implemented in… - [Quake on an Oscilloscope](https://www.baldengineer.com/quake-on-an-oscilloscope.md): Video is rendered on a PC and provide to the analog scope for X/Y graphing. - [Installing Arduino Library from GitHub](https://www.baldengineer.com/installing-arduino-library-from-github.md): What happens when you have a random chip or sensor you want to interface with an Arduino, but don't know how? You search for a pre-existing library of course. And where are… - [[TIP] Fixing Garbage Serial / UART Communication](https://www.baldengineer.com/tip-fixing-garbage-serial-uart-communication.md): If you're using serial (or UART) communication between two devices and seeing data corruption, there could be a simple fix. For example you might be trying to communicate… - [Rigol Offers 100MHz and MSO for $1,000 USD](https://www.baldengineer.com/rigol-offers-100mhz-and-mso-for-1000-usd.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/MSO1104Z-300x167.jpg)](http://www.rigolna.com/products/digital-oscilloscopes/mso1000z/mso1104z/) Oscilloscopes are the most critical tool when it… - [Astronomically Correct Twinkle Twinkle | MinutePhysics](https://www.baldengineer.com/astronomically-correct-twinkle-twinkle.md): (https://www.youtube.com/user/minutephysics "MinutePhysics YouTube Channel"), one of my favorite YouTube channels, has done a collaboration project to provide an animated short… - [[App Note] Extending Soldering Iron Tip Life from OKI/Metcal](https://www.baldengineer.com/app-note-extending-soldering-iron-tip-life.md): Metcal, the standard in soldering irons, put together a nice application note discussing tips for soldering. Crucial for beginners or experts! - [My Top 10 Posts from 2014](https://www.baldengineer.com/my-top-10-posts-from-2014.md): From Jan 1 2014 until today, baldengineer.com's traffic has increased 150%. With so many new readers, I thought about how to make better posts for you. That lead me to look at… - [Brass Sponge over Wet Sponge](https://www.baldengineer.com/brass-sponge-over-wet-sponge.md): Keep your soldering iron tip from oxidizing. As it gets dull and gray, it'll be harder to make good solder joints. My favorite tool to clean a tip is a Brass Sponge. The other… - [Signal and Power Integrity - Simplified (2nd Edition)](https://www.baldengineer.com/signal-and-power-integrity-simplified-2nd-edition.md): Let me start by saying, this book is not for new comers, or (ugh) "newbies", to electronics. This book is intended for those who have a solid understanding of electrical… - [How does a transistor work by Veritasium](https://www.baldengineer.com/how-does-a-transistor-work-by-veritasium.md): One of the best ways to describe a transistor is as an "electronic switch." They are solid state devices that make up almost everything in our world. This video by… - [Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas](https://www.baldengineer.com/happy-holidays-and-merry-christmas.md): Minecraft animation from (https://twitter.com/PoetPlays). Happy Holidays Everyone. - [An example of when comments would have helped](https://www.baldengineer.com/comments-can-help.md): What was one of the first things you were taught, when learning to program? "Comment Your Code!" And of course, like all programming students, you ignored that advice. Or, if… - [Software Defined Radios are Awesome](https://www.baldengineer.com/software-defined-radios-are-awesome.md): Early in my engineering career, I worked for an oscilloscope company in the high performance product line. The last project I worked on was defining the features and… - [Open Vapors (Reflow Oven) Controller Update](https://www.baldengineer.com/open-vapors-reflow-oven-controller-update.md): \ The (/projects/reflow-oven/ "Reflow Oven") has taken some big steps forward recently. The controller's enclosure is now a custom box, has a front panel, and the LCD's menu… - [Behind the scenes of AddOhms #11 (MOSFETs)](https://www.baldengineer.com/behind-the-scenes-of-addohms-11-mosfets.md): The 11th AddOhms Video is live and the subject is (http://www.addohms.com/ep11 "AddOhms #11 - MOSFETs"). This turned out to be the longest video I've made so far. In fact, I… - [Hands On: National Instrument's VirtualBench](https://www.baldengineer.com/hands-on-national-instruments-virtualbench.md): Modern smartphones have eliminated the need for a number of devices. Often I use my smartphone as a scanner (CamScanner), car GPS, voice recorder, security token, pedometer,… - [First Impressions of Electron, a new Node.js IDE for Arduino](https://www.baldengineer.com/first-impressions-of-electron-a-new-nodejs-ide-for-arduino.md): The (http://www.arduino.cc "Arduino Project Web site") is great in that with a single download on any PC platform, new users can start writing code and see immediate results.… - [6 Simple Mistakes Electronics Beginners Make](https://www.baldengineer.com/6-simple-mistakes-electronics-beginners-make.md): Sometimes the hardest lessons are the ones you have to learn multiple times. When getting started with Electronics circuits, there's a handful of things that can ruin a day (or… - [Please take my 2014 Reader Survey](https://www.baldengineer.com/survey-2014.md): I want to make my blog a better for your interests. That means, I need to know about YOU! Would you please take a few minutes and (https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/VLHQSZJ "2014… - [Are you an engineer?](https://www.baldengineer.com/are-you-an-engineer.md): One of the recent changes in pop-culture is that "nerds are cool." Most people who claim to be a nerd like to wear 1950s (non-corrective) glasses and download Apps on their… - ["Post your code" to the style of "Let it Be"](https://www.baldengineer.com/post-your-code-to-the-style-of-let-it-be.md): A friendly reminder (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdQL_7osGzc) to everyone asking for help in a programming forum. \ Lately I've been looking for ways to expand on the… - [Well formatted Arduino code in one click](https://www.baldengineer.com/one-click-clean-arduino-code.md): Warning, the title of this post is a little bit misleading. It isn't just one-click to get cleanly formatted code, it's actually two. There are two things seasoned programmers… - [Review: The Art of Electronics [Book]](https://www.baldengineer.com/review-the-art-of-electronics-book.md): Title: The Art of Electronics by Paul Horowitz and Winfield Hill.… - [AddOhms #10: BJTs as Transistors](https://www.baldengineer.com/addohms-10-bjts-as-transistors.md): \ Every Addohms project follows the same pattern. About 80% of my original idea makes it into the video while the remaining 20% I make up on the fly. Of course, when I do that,… - [The 4 best transistors to keep in your parts kit](https://www.baldengineer.com/the-best-4-transistors-to-keep-in-your-parts-kit.md): With so many choices, you might wonder: "what are the best transistors to keep in my toolbox?" The Bald Engineer goes thorugh his favorite four. - [Let's connect on element14](https://www.baldengineer.com/lets-connect-on-element14-2.md): What does Silicon have to do with Social Media? Silicon's Atomic Number is 14. Wait what? Oh... (http://element14.com) is, basically, a social media site for electrical… - [Teach your Arduino to listen with µSpeech](https://www.baldengineer.com/teach-your-arduino-to-listen-with.md): When most people say "Arduino" they mean an ATmega328 based board like the Uno. This means a simple 8-bit microcontroller with only 2K of RAM. That's 2,048 _bytes_ of memory to… - [Arduino: Assignments != Comparisons](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-assignments-do-not-equal-comparisons.md): There is one mistake that all C programmers make, regardless of experience. You'll do it often when you get started, but never completely stop. The mistake? Confusing the… - [April Fools' 2014 Jokes for Enginerds](https://www.baldengineer.com/april-fool-2014-for-enginerds.md): Each year it is fun to see who gets "got". With Twitter fever getter hotter each day, people can't help but spread juicy news details. Here's a running list of the April Fool's… - [AddOhms: Questions and Answers #1](https://www.baldengineer.com/addohms-questions-and-answers-1.md): AddOhms Answers three viewer questions 1) LEDs and Batteries, 2) How AddOhms is made and 3) AC + DC = What?! - [9V Batteries Suck -- And why you shouldn't use them.](https://www.baldengineer.com/9v-batteries-suck.md): Smoke detectors beep when their backup battery dies, which always seems to occur in the middle of the night (at least for me.) These backup batteries are usually a small… - [3 Options for Keeping Track of your Parts](https://www.baldengineer.com/options-for-keeping-track-of-your-parts.md): As your electronics hobby grows, so does your parts collection. Eventually the growing number of Mouser boxes with crudely written labels just won't cut it. Also, you're tired… - [AddOhms #8: LEDs and Current Limiting Resistors](https://www.baldengineer.com/addohms-8-leds-and-current-limiting-resistors.md): \ The idea for AddOhms #8 has been around for quite some time. I'm always trying to find ways to explain why current limiting resistors are necessary. So while working in the… - [Stuff from Tokyo](https://www.baldengineer.com/stuff-from-tokyo.md): It's been a little quiet on the blog because I spent the last three weeks in Asia. There's some electronics enginerd stuff coming next week. Until then, I hope you'll excuse… - [EAGLE Trivia Challenge: Why the ratnest?](https://www.baldengineer.com/eagle-trivia-challenge-why-the-ratnest.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/EAGLE_GND_Plane_Ratsnest_Challenge-300x203.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/EAGLE_GND_Plane_Ratsnest_Challenge.png) Your challenge, if you chose… - [EAGLE: Creating a Custom Library for your own components](https://www.baldengineer.com/eagle-create-custom-library.md): When you start creating your own parts in EAGLE, you're going to want to store them somewhere. Here's how to setup EAGLE to use custom directories and how to create your own… - [When do you use the Arduino's Serial.flush()?](https://www.baldengineer.com/when-do-you-use-the-arduinos-to-use-serial-flush.md): In the Arduino library, the Serial object has a method called "flush()." Often users go throwing it into programs without fully understanding what it does. It doesn't help that… - [5 Myths Everyone Believes about Arduino (that aren't true)](https://www.baldengineer.com/5-arduino-myths.md): Having spent the past 6 years writing code for the Arduino platform, I've noticed a trend in myths from both newcomers and veteran users. Here are the Top 5 Myths I see come up… - [Unlike Speed Limits, Ohm's Law isn't a Suggestion](https://www.baldengineer.com/unlike-speed-limits-ohms-law-isnt-a-suggestion.md): Ohm's law is critical to understanding electronics. This tutorial breaks down the basics of Ohm's law and how it applies to simple circuits. - [Electronics: Introduction to Breadboards](https://www.baldengineer.com/electronics-introduction-to-breadboards.md): Soldering every circuit you build probably isn't practical. At some point you are probably going to want to use some type of temporary method to connect different components… - [AddOhms #7 - Comparing Arduino and Raspberry Pi](https://www.baldengineer.com/addohms-7-comparing-arduino-and-raspberry-pi.md): The seventh AddOhms TutorialCast has gone "live". (Gone "uploaded" sounds wrong.) Being able to understand difference between an Arduino and a Pi is a critical point for many… - [Arduino: De-Bounce a Button with micros() or millis()](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-de-bounce-a-button-with-micros.md): The Arduino is fast, humans are slow. When you push down a button, what seems like a single change to slow humans is really multiple presses to an Arduino. This is known as… - [Arduino: Chasing LEDs with millis()](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-chasing-leds-with-millis.md): A popular LED project is the "Larson Scanner." This scanner emulates the effect seen on KIT from Knight Rider and the Cylons in Battlestar Galactica. The code is usually… - [Arduino: Timing Code with Millis() as a Stopwatch](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-timing-code-with-millis-as-a-stopwatch.md): Since most Arduino boards do not have debug capability, this limits the programmer to using Serial.prints. A useful piece of information might be knowing how long certain parts… - [Arduino: Independent On-Off Times with Millis()](https://www.baldengineer.com/millis-ind-on-off-times.md): When using delay() to flash a LED there is a time for the LED to be on and then off. This makes it easy to have independent control of the "on" and "off" times. The standard… - [Arduino Millis() Examples](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-millis-examples.md): You've recently learned about millis() and can't way to delete all of your references to delay(). The problem is that you don't know quite how to convert your code into… - [A week of Arduino Millis()](https://www.baldengineer.com/a-week-of-arduino-millis.md): By far one of the most powerful functions of the Arduino library is the millis() counter. It is also one of the most misunderstood functions. Mastering millis() can unlock… - [EAGLE: Clean up the parts list by disabling libraries](https://www.baldengineer.com/eagle-clean-up-the-parts-list-by-disabling-libraries.md): Does it take a few seconds every time you click the "ADD PART" button on EAGLE? Tired of scrolling through an enormous list of parts just to find a capacitor? Here's how you… - [The sounds of dialup on a Spectrogram](https://www.baldengineer.com/the-sounds-of-dialup-on-a-spectrogram.md): \ This beautiful Spectrogram video is instant nostalgia for any of us who used BBSes back in the 80s and 90s. The video comes from (https://www.youtube.com/user/bitcoredotorg… - [The hidden Arduino Macro F() fixes random lock ups](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-f-macro.md): It's 3am but you are not going to bed until you squash this last bug. You sprinkle Serial.print() statements everywhere you can think of, and then that's when all hell breaks… - [Three Alternatives to Arduino's Serial Monitor](https://www.baldengineer.com/alternatives-to-arduinos-serial-monitor.md): Alternatives to the Arduino IDE's built-in Serial Monitor. Tools for Windows, OS X, and Linux which are compatible with all serial-based Arduino boards. - [EAGLE: Using the Add Part's Search](https://www.baldengineer.com/eagle-using-the-add-parts-search.md): If you are anything like me, your copy of EAGLE has an extensive list of libraries. Most of them probably came with the installer, some which you have added. This, of course,… - [Using Adobe Illustrator to Create A Sine Wave](https://www.baldengineer.com/using-adobe-illustrator-to-create-a-sine-wave.md): When working on the (http://www.addohms.com/ep5), I needed a vector diagram with a sine wave. Using Adobe Illustrator, I tried with a Bézier tool, but it didn't look quite… - [Const vs #define - When do you use them and why?](https://www.baldengineer.com/const-vs-define-when-do-you-them-and-why.md): Arduino boards have microcontrollers with notoriously small amounts of RAM. The Uno only has 2,048 bytes of static RAM available for your program to store variables. So when… - [AddOhms #6: Analog and Digital](https://www.baldengineer.com/addohms-6-analog-and-digital.md): \ It isn't always clear what is meant by calling a device or a signal "analog" and "digital". This AddOhms tutorial explains the difference between analog and digital by using… - [Introduction to Polymer Capacitors](https://www.baldengineer.com/introduction-to-polymer-capacitors.md): November 2013's issue of (http://www.electronicproducts.com/) features an article on the cover titled " (http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/hearst/ep1113/#/32)." The author is,… - [Arduino pinMode(): When to use and why](https://www.baldengineer.com/when-to-use-arduinos-pinmode-and-why.md): A quick look at how the Arduino pinMode() function works and why you should use it. Many people unnecessarily call it or misunderstand what happens when they do. - [Understand the difference between DC and AC](https://www.baldengineer.com/understand-the-difference-between-dc-and-ac.md): \ The fifth episode of AddOhms tackled the difference between AC and DC. One of the things I wanted to stress in this tutorial is that even though the acronyms stand for… - [Learn how to use a Mixed Signal Oscilloscope](https://www.baldengineer.com/learn-how-to-use-a-mixed-signal-oscilloscope.md): When I teach the Electronics Measurements class at the TechShop in Austin, I take a lot of pride in showing off the Mixed-Signal Oscilloscope. We have a… - [Ouch. The Arduino GSM shield has a pretty serious design flaw, with its capacitors.](https://www.baldengineer.com/ouch-the-arduino-gsm-shield-has-a-pretty-serious-design-flaw-with-its-capacitors.md): Tantalum is a really misunderstood capacitor. Well, all capacitors are misunderstood, but that's a subject for another post. I ran across… - [Minor updates to the Open Source Reflow Oven Project](https://www.baldengineer.com/minor-updates-to-the-open-source-reflow-oven-project.md): The next stage of the reflow oven project is moving to a custom PCB for the controller electronics. Overall the board is based on the ATmega32u4 with a DS3231 RTC. The LCD… - [MSO Demo Board](https://www.baldengineer.com/mso-demo-board.md): Last Update: 09/24/2013 Status: Done Github: (https://github.com/baldengineer/Mixed-Signal-Oscilloscope-Demo-Board) # Abstract As a member of the TechShop in Austin, TX I teach… - [EAGLE: Introduction Class Resources](https://www.baldengineer.com/eagle-introduction-class-resources.md): The following resources compliment my EAGLE Introduction Classes and eBook. Files mentioned in those resources will be provided here, although, the original creators may have… - [A new series on AddOhms, Electronics basics, starting with: Voltage, Current, and Power Explained.](https://www.baldengineer.com/a-new-series-on-addohms-electronics-basics-starting-with-voltage-current-and-power-explained.md): Starting with this new AddOhms TutorialCast series, we are taking a look at Electronics Basics. The first topic is on the differences between Voltage, Current, and Power. The… - [EDN: What size and type of output wires should I use?](https://www.baldengineer.com/edn-what-size-and-type-of-output-wires-should-i-use.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/T1x600.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/T1x600.jpg) In an ideal world, wires would be ideal. They'd have no resistance, and therefore, no voltage… - [Introducing the AddOhms TutorialCast](https://www.baldengineer.com/introducing-the-addohms-tutorialcast.md): Over the past several months I have been kicking around a new way to teach non-engineers about electronics. My idea is to use simple language to explain complex engineering… - [Prototyping quadrotor arm mounts with MakerBot Replicator 2](https://www.baldengineer.com/prototyping-quadrotor-arm-mounts-with-makerbot-replicator-2.md): While practicing the (/quadrotor.html "Custom Made Quadrotor – Overview")'s motor mounts on a Shopbot gave me experience in how to register two sides for milling, I didn't want… - [HackEDA: Collecting and Sharing reusable pieces of electronic designs](https://www.baldengineer.com/hackeda-collecting-and-sharing-reusable-pieces-of-electronic-designs.md): HackEDA is a service for reusing EAGLE circuit designs, schematics, and bills of materials instead of redrawing common parts. - [100kGarages: CNC Router Bits Demystified](https://www.baldengineer.com/100kgarages-cnc-router-bits-demystified.md): Early on in planning the design for the (/quadrotor.html "Custom Made Quadrotor – Overview"), we knew that eventually some of the metal parts would need to be milled. Having… - [OSX: Fixing the "Green Screen" issue when capturing your desktop (with Quicktime or other)](https://www.baldengineer.com/osx-fixing-the-green-screen-issue-when-capturing-your-desktop-with-quicktime-or-other.md): After spending too much time waiting for effects to render on my new (http://www.addohms.com/) I decided it was time to upgrade computers. When I went to capture a quick EAGLE… - [Custom Made Quadrotor - Overview](https://www.baldengineer.com/quadrotor.md): Status: Active, In Progress (Updated: 4/18/2013) # Abstract Pictures: (https://www.flickr.com/photos/cmiyc/sets/72157633185131473/with/8653034709/ "Quadrotor Flickr Slideset")… - [Building a custom Quadcopter from scratch](https://www.baldengineer.com/building-a-custom-quadcopter-from-scratch.md): A couple of years ago I started looking at what it would take to make a quadcopter. At the time, I only had the limited tools at the Austin hackerspace available to me (which I… - [Guide for finding the right fastener for your project from BoltDepot](https://www.baldengineer.com/guide-for-finding-the-right-fastener-for-your-project-from-boltdepot.md): BoltDepot.com sells a huge variety of fasteners which can be useful in hardware projects. One of the resources they provide is a… - [EAGLE Tutorial: Copy and Paste](https://www.baldengineer.com/eagle-tutorial-copy-and-paste.md): The concept of "cut copy and paste" goes back to a time when people hand wrote all of their documents. The modern concept was introduced to the computing world by Xerox PARC… - [Simple Effect using Chromokey and Final Cut Pro X](https://www.baldengineer.com/simple-effect-using-chromokey-and-final-cut-pro-x.md): Editing video has been something I enjoyed doing since High School. There I used my first tape-based (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-linear_editing_system "NLE Definition on… - [Sawtooth waveform with the Arduino Due's Built-In DAC](https://www.baldengineer.com/sawtooth-waveform-with-the-arduino-dues-built-in-dac.md): Users of the ATmega328 based Arduino boards will recognize that the analogWrite() function doesn't actually do anything analog. It just sets the duty cycle of a pulse width… - [Math: Animated Factorization Diagram](https://www.baldengineer.com/math-animated-factorization-diagram.md): The web site (http://www.datapointed.net) is run by (http://www.twitter.com/DataPointed) who is an artist and scientist specializing in data visualization research. He has… - [The world's thinnest watch, the CST-01](https://www.baldengineer.com/1508.md): \ Update 03/24/2015: I (finally) got mine after a couple of years. In fact, I completely forgot about it. The watch is crap. I threw it away before ever wearing it out of the… - [Revision 2 of the open source reflow solder oven is done!](https://www.baldengineer.com/revision-2-of-the-open-source-reflow-solder-oven-is-done.md): One of the projects I really wanted to get back to when I joined the (http://www.techshop.ws) was my (/reflow-oven.html "Open Vapors – Open Source Toaster Reflow Oven"). The… - [Laser Cutting Christmas](https://www.baldengineer.com/laser-cutting-christmas.md): For Christmas this year, I decided to do something different for my immediate family. Instead of trading gift cards like we usually do, I decided to put to use the Laser Cutter… - [Creating split net names for EAGLE](https://www.baldengineer.com/creating-split-net-names-for-eagle.md): As your schematics grow in complexity, it isn't always possible to draw simple connections between chips or devices. Sometimes it isn't possible to put two parts next to each… - [Tutorials](https://www.baldengineer.com/tutorials.md): [![arduino\_tutorial\_250px](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/arduino%5Ftutorial%5F250px-150x150.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/arduino%5Ftutorial%5F250px-150x150.png) arduino\_tutorial\_250px … - [Baldengineer's Projects Overview](https://www.baldengineer.com/projects.md): [![open\_vapors\_125px](/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/open%5Fvapors%5F125px.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/open%5Fvapors%5F125px.jpg) open\_vapors\_125px … - [Making a 3D print with the MakerBot Replicator](https://www.baldengineer.com/making-a-3d-print-with-the-makerbot-replicator.md): Recently (http://www.techshop.ws) opened up one of their shops in Round Rock which is just a few minutes from Austin, where I live. (http://www.techshop.ws) with a huge variety… - [First impressions of the Arduino Due](https://www.baldengineer.com/my-first-impressions-of-the-arduino-due.md): I've been working with Arduino boards for a number of years, as shown by the dates on some of my older blog posts. In that time I've only used boards based on the ATmega8 (like… - [How to Fix: Arduino is damaged and can't be opened](https://www.baldengineer.com/how-to-fix-arduino-is-damaged-and-cant-be-opened.md): When OS X tells an application is damaged, like "Arduino is damaged...", that's actually Gatekeeper getting confused. This post tells you how to fix it. - [Reverse Resistor Color Code Generator](https://www.baldengineer.com/reverse-resistor-color-code-generator.md): The other night I happened to see a tweet come across my twitter stream from Joe Walnes ( (http://www.twitter.com/joewalnes)) about a resistor color code tool he created. You… - [Arduino: Fixing "Serial Port in Use"](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-fixing-serial-port-in-use.md): Here's a couple of quick tips to get around the Arduino IDE error message "Serial Port in Use." These mostly apply to OSX, but since it is UNIX based, they may make sense for… - [Voltage Regulator Tutorial and Basics](https://www.baldengineer.com/regulator-basics.md): # Regulator Types Fundamentally there are two types of voltage regulators: linear and switching. The names come from how they operate and how they achieve voltage regulation.… - [LED Matrix Arduino Shield](https://www.baldengineer.com/led-matrix-arduino-shield.md): Status: Completed GitHub: (https://github.com/baldengineer/8x6-LED-Matrix-Shield) ## Abstract After getting a couple of flashing lights working on a microprocessor, the next… - [Tutorial that goes over the basics of different regulators types](https://www.baldengineer.com/tutorial-on-different-regulator-types.md): Digital ICs like microcontrollers, memory, and shift registers need a stable voltage source to make sure they work as expected. Most circuits are designed with a voltage… - [Resonant Frequency Calculator](https://www.baldengineer.com/resonant-frequency-calculator.md): When working with components like capacitors and inductors it is always helpful to know how to calculate a resonant frequency. This (http://www.1728.org/resfreq.htm) is an… - [BoxMaker: Create a new box - perfect for laser cutters!](https://www.baldengineer.com/boxmaker-create-a-new-box.md): When I was working on (/projects/binboo/ "BinBoo – Binary Clock"), I decided I was going to create a custom enclosure with a laser cutter. The process took me a couple of… - [Long Overdue LaunchPad Review](https://www.baldengineer.com/launchpad-review.md): \ Recently I realized most of my projects were all Arduino-based. There are lots of other prototyping platforms available in the market, and the TI LaunchPad, based on the… - [Are you a Scotty or a Geordi?](https://www.baldengineer.com/are-you-a-scotty-or-a-geordi.md): (http://www.twitter.com/measurementblue "Martin's Twitter") over at (http://www.tmworld.com) asks an interesting question: Are you a Scotty or a Geordi? While both were… - [Raspberry coming to a Hackerspace near you](https://www.baldengineer.com/raspberry-coming-to-a-hackerspace-near-you.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Screen-Shot-2012-08-18-at-11.04.47-PM.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Screen-Shot-2012-08-18-at-11.04.47-PM.png) One of the Raspberry Pi… - [Engineering Resource: Web Equation](https://www.baldengineer.com/engineering-resource-web-equation.md): Documentation, Documentation. Documentation. It is always critical to document progress is a log book. If using an electronic tool like (http://www.evernote.com) or a Blog, it… - [Renesas Promotion Board for RL78/G13 | Renesas Electronics America](https://www.baldengineer.com/renesas-promotion-board-for-rl78g13-renesas-electronics-america.md): Renesas is offering a promotion version of their (http://www.renesas.com/products/mpumcu/rl78/). This offer is only available to their Sample Component account holders, but the… - [Updated Eagle Tutorial](https://www.baldengineer.com/updated-eagle-tutorial.md): \ A couple of weeks ago I posted an (/eagle-ground-plane-polygon-fills.html "EAGLE: Ground Plane (Polygon) Fills"). That tutorial has now been updated with the above YouTube… - [Arduino: Getting Real Time Help](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-getting-real-time-help.md): While the Arduino Project Team provides their (http://www.arduino.cc/forum), sometimes real-time help is just a bit better. When that is the case, I encourage you to visit the… - [Arduino: Sending and Receiving Multi-Digit Integers](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-multi-digit-integers.md): When Serial data is transmitted to an Arduino, it is sent one byte at a time. Even though you might type "123" in the Serial Monitor, that's not quite what is sent. Instead the… - [Arduino Example: Police Lights with millis()](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-example-police-lights-with-millis.md): Based on a question from Andrew on the initial (/millis-tutorial.html "millis() Tutorial: Arduino Multitasking"), this example shows how to create a Police-Light like strobe… - [EAGLE: Ground Plane (Polygon) Fills](https://www.baldengineer.com/eagle-ground-plane-polygon-fills.md): \ Creating PCBs in Eagle is a straight-forward process once you understand how EAGLE works. In fact, most users can get up to speed enough to draw a Schematic and then layout a… - [Arduino: Toggling Outputs](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-toggling-outputs.md): Did you know it is possible to toggle the state of a Arduino OUTPUT pin using a single line of code? It's true! It's also possible to use digitalRead() on an OUTPUT pin.… - [Simulation: Java Circuit Simulator](https://www.baldengineer.com/java-circuit-simulator.md): ! (/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Define-Simulation.png) Do you know who (http:///www.falstad.com) is? If not, you really need to get to know him, or at least, his web site. He's… - [OSX: Cathode, Best Terminal Ever!](https://www.baldengineer.com/osx-cathode-best-terminal-ever.md): (http://www.secretgeometry.com/apps/cathode/ "Cathode from Secret Geometry") from (http://www.secretgeometry.com/) is, hands down, my favorite Terminal Emulator for OSX. It is,… - [TMW: What's a half digit, anyway?](https://www.baldengineer.com/tmw-whats-a-half-digit-anyway.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DMM_Ziffernrollen.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DMM_Ziffernrollen.jpg) (http://www.twitter.com/measurementblue) over at… - [Eagle Tip: Command Shortcuts](https://www.baldengineer.com/eagle-tip-command-shortcuts.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Screen-Shot-2012-07-13-at-11.30.25-PM.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Screen-Shot-2012-07-13-at-11.30.25-PM.png) A very little known feature of… - [Arduino: How do you reset millis() ?](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-how-do-you-reset-millis.md): The quick answer to "How do you reset (http://arduino.cc/en/reference/millis "Arduino millis() reference page")" is: **_You Don't_**! And here's why: if you did, it would… - [BinBoo: Building the front panel LEDs](https://www.baldengineer.com/binboo-building-the-front-panel-leds.md): \ Short build-lapse video of building up the front panel "matrix" used in BinBoo. This isn't a true LED matrix. Instead it combining all of the LEDs into a common Anode, since… - [Part Stock Checker: Findchips.com](https://www.baldengineer.com/part-checker-findchips.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/findchips-serachbox-and-logo-300x75.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/findchips-serachbox-and-logo.png) How many times have you been part way… - [(Accurate) RTC Shield Rev2](https://www.baldengineer.com/accurate-rtc-shield-rev2.md): For the past couple of weeks I have been working with the DS3231 Maxim. This chip is a I2C based RTC with an integrated temperature compensated oscillator and crystal.This… - [Soldermask as an air freshener](https://www.baldengineer.com/soldermask-as-an-air-freshener.md): While testing my Toaster Oven's maximum temperature I learned a valuable lesson. Soldermask has a pretty limited lifetime when it is exposed to temperatures above 250C. Looks… - [Arduino Power Simulator](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-power-simulator.md): ## How to use this simulator: 1. Press the power button for the desired connections. For example, for USB-only, press the power button near the USB connector. 1. Enter a… - [Open Vapors - Open Source Toaster Reflow Oven](https://www.baldengineer.com/reflow-oven.md): Last Updated: 2017-SEP-07 Status: Completed \ View Open Vapors Details on Hackster.io\… - [Accurate RTC Shield](https://www.baldengineer.com/accurate-rtc-shield.md): Status: In Progress, Last Update: October 14, 2012 GiHub: (https://github.com/baldengineer/Accurate-RTC-Shield "GitHub Repository for Arduino Accurate RTC Shield") ## Abstract… - [Fuelling Your Arduino - Thermal Look at Arduino Power](https://www.baldengineer.com/fuelling-your-arduino-thermal-look-at-arduino-power.md): There are many options for powering an Arduino board. The designers did a great job of designing an auto-select circuit that makes it simple to power the boards. However, there… - [Build the Enterprise, in 20 Years](https://www.baldengineer.com/build-the-enterprise-in-20-years.md): Can you can imagine what people thought about today, 20 years ago? Think of all the crazy things you (or others) thought we would be doing today. Like... Video phone calls from… - [Binary + Bamboo = BinBoo](https://www.baldengineer.com/binary-bamboo-binboo.md): Several months ago I started a project to build a Binary Clock, using a Laser Cut enclosure. The plan was to use (http://www.ponoko.com) laser cutting service. Looking through… - [Measuring Battery Capacity](https://www.baldengineer.com/measuring-battery-capacity.md): Why is choosing a simple AA battery such a daunting selection process? Manufacturers are keen on giving their products different names and brag about the chemical technology… - [Why You Suck At Changing The World; Try Hardware - Upverter](https://www.baldengineer.com/why-you-suck-at-changing-the-world-try-hardware-upverter.md): (http://blog.upverter.com/why-you-suck-at-changing-the-world-and-other) he iconic picture of a homemade case for the Apple I, the computer that changed the world, is a great… - [The next step in wearable fabrics: fabric batteries](https://www.baldengineer.com/the-next-step-in-wearable-fabrics-fabric-batteries.md): Researchers at the Polytechnic School of Montreal have figured out a way to turn a battery into a flexible material. Each strand of the "battery" is 0.6V. While exciting, it… - [New Digi-Key tool lets Engineers share schematics - Electronic Products](https://www.baldengineer.com/new-digi-key-tool-lets-engineers-share-schematics-electronic-products.md): Tools like (http://webench.ti.com/ "TI (formerly National)'s WEBENCH Design Tool") have allowed engineers to design power supplies without downloading any software for quite… - [MSGEQ7 Simple Spectrum Analyzer](https://www.baldengineer.com/msgeq7-simple-spectrum-analyzer.md): ## Abstract (http://www.mix-sig.com "Mixed Signal Integration") has a cool little chip that has 7 built-in bandpass filters. Run an audio signal through it and you have an… - [Arduino and MSGEQ7: Simple Spec Analyzer](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-and-msgeq7-simple-spec-analyzer.md): Putting music signal into the Analog Input of an Arduino can be pretty boring. That is, unless you use a totally awesome chip like the MSGEQ7. This… - [Arduino Comparison Chart](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-comparison-chart.md): When getting started with the Arduino, the shear number of board options can be intimidating. While the variety is a great option, it can be daunting to a new user. Many people… - [Added a G-Docs comparison chart to help pick an Arduino](https://www.baldengineer.com/picking-an-arduino-board-comparison-chart.md): Can't decide which Arduino Board is for you? Have a board you want others to know about? This Google Docs Spreadsheet (/arduino-comparison-chart.html "Arduino Comparison… - [Arduino Internal Pull-Up Resistor Tutorial](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-internal-pull-up-resistor-tutorial.md): Pushbuttons acting weird? You might need to enable the Arduino Internal Pull-Up Resistor. Here's why you need it and how to to turn them on. - [Spotting Arduino Clones](https://www.baldengineer.com/spotting-arduino-clones.md): Open Source Hardware (OSH) means not only releasing devices, but all of the documentation associated with them. For some projects, this may include the actual CAD files used to… - [LED Tutorial - Learn the basics](https://www.baldengineer.com/led-basics.md): LEDs are super fun devices to add to any project. This LED Tutorial breaks down the basics so any non-engineer can understand them. - [Video Tutorial: Buttons and Pull-Ups](https://www.baldengineer.com/video-tutorial-buttons-and-pull-ups.md): This is a 4-minute video version of the (/arduino-pull-ups.html "Arduino Internal Pull-Up"): \ - [BinBoo - Binary Clock](https://www.baldengineer.com/binboo.md): Status: Completed Hackster.io Project Page: (https://www.hackster.io/baldengineer/binboo) Github Code: (https://github.com/baldengineer/BinBoo "BinBoo on Github")… - [Now that's an Apple Pie! - EMSL](https://www.baldengineer.com/now-thats-an-apple-pie-emsl.md): What is more American than an Apple Pie? Why, a Pie designed in California, made in China. This is one pie I'd like to jailbreak. Is applying too much heat to this pie… - [BinBoo Control Board, Alive](https://www.baldengineer.com/binboocontrol-board-with-leds.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/6293892798_5eeb282850.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/9849051@N04/6293892798/ "Control Board with LEDs") The control board is up and running,… - [The Making of Arduino - IEEE Spectrum](https://www.baldengineer.com/the-making-of-arduino.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/10NWArduinothumbnail-1319573650417.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/10NWArduinothumbnail-1319573650417.jpg) Even knowing that the name Arduino was… - [Binary Clock Control Board](https://www.baldengineer.com/binary-clock-control-board.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/6287525903_c556459613.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/9849051@N04/6287525903/ "Untitled")… - [One million ARM cores to simulate brain at Manchester](https://www.baldengineer.com/one-million-arm-cores-to-simulate-brain-at-manchester.md): ![](http://www.electronicsweekly.com/assets/getasset.aspx?itemid=54548) The lead hardware designer of both the original (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ARM_architecture) and the… - [Space Shuttle Infographic](https://www.baldengineer.com/space-shuttle-infographic.md): A long time fan of the NASA Space program, the last shuttle going up is a little bit sad. Artist Alberto Cuadra has put together this infographic about the shuttle. Originally… - [Diodes adds 5V capability to Glue Logic](https://www.baldengineer.com/diodes-adds-5v-capability-to-glue-logic.md): These days it is pretty rare to see a press release from a semiconductor company touting 5V TTL capabilities.… - [Tamper resistant memory](https://www.baldengineer.com/tamper-resistant-memory.md): Watch an episode of NCIS or CSI and you might get the impression that hacking electronic devices is a simple way to learn all you need to about a person. While these shows tend… - [NASA Space Shuttle Owner's Workshop Manual Book Review](https://www.baldengineer.com/nasa-space-shuttle-owners-workshop-manual-book-review.md): Over at (http://www.universetoday.com), there is a review of the book titled "NASA Space Shuttle Owner's Workshop Manual." When I first started using the Internet (over dial-up… - [Apple A5 vs A4 Floorplan Comparison](https://www.baldengineer.com/apple-a5-vs-a4-floorplan-comparison.md): Apple's latest magic trick was upgrading their previous A4 chip into a dual core variant, the A5. This chip powers the recently announced iPad 2 and is likely to be in the… - [EW: Single-chip GPS IC](https://www.baldengineer.com/single-chip-gps-teseo-ii.md): Coming Q3 of 2011, ST-Micro will begin selling a Single-Chip GPS IC called the Teseo II. It has an ARM core integrated into it, which should help reduce the time it takes to… - [Arduino UNO SMD Amnesia](https://www.baldengineer.com/arduino-uno-smd-amnesia.md): On the Janurary 15, 2011 edition of (https://blog.adafruit.com "Adafruit Blog") " (http://www.adafruit.com/ask "Ada fruit's Ask an Engineer")" live video chat, I heard LadyAda… - [millis() Tutorial: Arduino Multitasking](https://www.baldengineer.com/millis-tutorial.md): \ After working through these exercises, check out this article on (/arduino-how-do-you-reset-millis.html).\ After learning how to flash a single LED on your Arduino, you are… - [IBM's 2010: 5 for 5](https://www.baldengineer.com/ibm_2010_5_for_5.md): From the company that brought us, "There is a worldwide need for no more than 5 computers". IBM is announcing 5 Innovative Technologies we will see over the next 5 years. \ In… - [iPad/Arduino Controlled KegBot, by Yelp](https://www.baldengineer.com/ipadarduino-controlled-kegbot-by-yelp.md): \ Engineers at (http://www.yelp.com) have put together an Arduino and iPad controlled Keg-o-rator. By swiping their RFID they can track how much a person is drinking, collect… - [Purdue Boilermakers are MAKERS!](https://www.baldengineer.com/purdue-boilermakers-are-makers.md): (http://nbitwonder.com/2010/10/13/purdue-declares-loudly-i-am-a-maker/) caught this outside the Armstrong Hall of Engineering (http://www.purdue.edu) while walking to class.… - [LED Calculator](https://www.baldengineer.com/led-calculator.md): Rob 'linear' Arnold has put together a fantastic (http://led.linear1.org/led.wiz "LED Wizard"). Not only will it calculate the current limiting resistor you need, it will draw… - [What Capacitor Measurements Mean](https://www.baldengineer.com/what-capacitor-measurements-mean.md): ![](/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Computer_sound_card01.JPEG) (http://www.electronicsweekly.com) has invited Dale Cigoy of (http://www.keithley.com) to talk about how… - [EDN: ICs could run on heat waste](https://www.baldengineer.com/edn-ics-could-run-on-heat-waste.md): Joseph Heremans and Roberto Meyrs at the (http://www.osu.edu) have been studying materials that could be used to turn heat from ICs into electricity. The research is focused on… - [8x6 LED Matrix Shield for Ardiuno](https://www.baldengineer.com/8x6-led-matrix-shield-for-ardiuno.md): \ This is a quick video demonstrating the LED Matrix Shield for the Arduino. This Matrix is an 8x6 "Normal" matrix. (It is not (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlieplexing… - [Annotated Arduino UNO](https://www.baldengineer.com/annotated-arduino-uno.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/5027065281_d129dc001f.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/5027065281_d129dc001f.jpg) westfw of the… - [Matrix LED Shield PCB](https://www.baldengineer.com/matrix-led-shield-pcb.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/p_2592_1936_FC265030-9610-4D15-8F6D-25E235989A39.jpeg)](/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/p_2592_1936_FC265030-9610-4D15-8F6D-25E235989A39.jpeg) The PCB… - [EW: True Random Numbers from a handful of gates](https://www.baldengineer.com/ew-true-random-numbers-from-a-handful-of-gates.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Random_1-thumb1.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Random_1-thumb1.png) Random numbers are a relative concept. In general, random numbers used in… - [Inside the iPhone 4 Gyroscope](https://www.baldengineer.com/inside-the-iphone-4-gyroscope.md): One of the major feature updates for the iPhone 4 included a gyroscope. There are two applications that a gyroscope can be used for: keeping an object in balance and providing… - [Flexible Print Circuit version of Arduino](https://www.baldengineer.com/flexible-print-circuit-version-of-arduino.md): (/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/4744921096_8dc51633a1.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/4744921096_8dc51633a1.jpg) The folks over at (http://www.seeedstudio.com) have created a… - [Lighting up fiber with Darkness](https://www.baldengineer.com/lighting-up-fiber-with-darkness.md): Electronic communications systems are made up of three basic components: a transmitter, a receiver, and a transmission medium. Use a video game system with a wired controller… - [RTW Blog](https://www.baldengineer.com/rtw-blog.md): In July, I left on a trip that took my friend and I around the world. While traveling, I kept a blog of the trip at (http://trip.cmiyc.com).We visited New Zealand and Australia… - [TLC5940 Painter PCB](https://www.baldengineer.com/tlc5940-painter-pcb.md): This screen shot is an all-layer view of my TLC5940 painter board. The 1st draft featured two TLC5940s, but I decided it made the board too large. Instead, I wanted the ability… - [Row Your Boat, Part 1](https://www.baldengineer.com/row-your-boat-part-1.md): This pattern is called Row Your Boat. As one of the strips starts to get brighter, a nearby strip will join in the fading. After completing a fade cycle, they start switching… - [Getting gEDA running on OS X](https://www.baldengineer.com/getting-geda-running-on-os-x.md): In an attempt to find a free set of schematic and PCB tools for hobby work, I looked back at (http://www.gpleda.org). The last time I used it was when the project first… - [Captain Awesome: FTW!](https://www.baldengineer.com/captain-awesome-ftw.md): Landing on water isn't easy. In fact, most aerospace engineers never considered it possible.… - [LED Strip Fun, First Try](https://www.baldengineer.com/led-strip-fun-first-try.md): ! (/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/picture-4-300x222.png) Initially I tried to get a LCD screen working with my Illuminato based Arduino. After a couple of attempts I realized two… - [5000 Miles (8050Km) to Snow](https://www.baldengineer.com/5000-miles-to-sno.md): ! (/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/img_0078-225x300.jpg) This morning I woke up somewhere in Southern Austria.When I looked outside my window, I found a very heavy snowfall.My… - [Quick Re-Hello World](https://www.baldengineer.com/quick-re-hello-world.md): After a long time posting to cmiyc.com, an upgrade to Wordpress, and two physical moves I just wanted to make sure the blog still works.... - [MacCaching Build #97](https://www.baldengineer.com/maccaching-build-97.md): Download: (/wp-content/uploads/2007/05/maccaching_build_97.zip "maccaching_build_97.zip")(5.3mb) Minor change in how uploads are handled (to correctly support USB). This is the… - [Serial Port List Utility](https://www.baldengineer.com/serial-port-list-utility.md): Download: (/wp-content/uploads/2007/05/serial-port-check.zip) (1.2mb) A simple utility that checks for all of your Mac's serial ports and copies the information to your clipboard. - [Why are you spamming me?](https://www.baldengineer.com/why-are-you-spamming-me.md): Nobody at "cmiyc.com" or "cmiyc.org" will send you email. In fact, I don't even have an outgoing mail server setup. So if you receive emails from me, a spammer is forging my… - [Announcing: v0.5.0 of MacCaching](https://www.baldengineer.com/announcing-v050-of-maccaching.md): Version 0.5.0 of MacCaching can be downloaded from its own site at maccaching.com. Here is a… - [New Beta Build Available](https://www.baldengineer.com/new-beta-build-available.md): Visit the MacCaching latest-build page for a "Christmas" build. Among the new features is an iPod Paperless Caching feature! - [The Blog Has Moved…](https://www.baldengineer.com/the-blog-has-moved.md): MacCaching has taken off a little faster than I had thought. Turns out many others are interested in Mac-Geocaching software. Since… - [Geocaching 101 by Lifehacker](https://www.baldengineer.com/geocaching-101-by-lifehacker.md): Lifehacker has put together a description of what they call the modern day pirate hunt. This is their way to honor the soon to be DVD, _Pirates of the Caribbean_ movie coming… - [Quick Fix: v0.2.4_r1](https://www.baldengineer.com/quick-fix-v024_r1.md): Turns out my complier isn't creating i386 (Intel) binaries correctly. So this is a quick fix for Intel users. If you already downloaded 0.2.4 and have a PPC-based… - [Unite For Diabetes - Geocaching.com's Travel Bug Promo](https://www.baldengineer.com/unite-for-diabetes-geocachingcoms-travel-bug-promo.md): On today's PodCacher.com pod-cast I heard that Groundspeak launched the Unite For Diabetes Travel Bug Promotion to help raise awareness for… - [v0.2.4 is now available](https://www.baldengineer.com/v024-is-now-available.md): 0.2.4. adds some key functionality while fixing a number of bugs. All reported bugs have been fixed, so if you see a problem, (mailto:byerly0503@gmail.com) know.… - [Child's Play Charity](https://www.baldengineer.com/childs-play-charity.md): This Year's Child's Play Charity is underway. Here is a description from their site: _"Since 2003, gamers have banded together through registered Seattle-based… - [Child's Play Logo](https://www.baldengineer.com/childs-play-logo.md): - [New Latest available.](https://www.baldengineer.com/new-latest-available.md): The new release contains the following major changes: \\* In the Edit Coordinate dialog (double-click on one), links to Google Maps and… - [Get the latest bugs, er, features.](https://www.baldengineer.com/get-the-latest-bugs-er-features.md): Since this software is in constant development, I thought I'd start releasing my "in between versions." These are basically the builds I use while I'm busy breaking the… - [LOC to GPX Converter](https://www.baldengineer.com/loc-to-gpx-converter.md): geocaching.com uses LOC files for its caches. If you are a premium member, then you have access to the GPX files.… - [No caching at the Virgin Island National Parks](https://www.baldengineer.com/no-caching-at-the-virgin-island-national-parks.md): Officials for the Virgin Island National Parks (VINP) are concerned about the (http://www.stjohntradewindsnews.com//index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=888&Itemid=38).… - [MacCaching v0.2.3 Released!](https://www.baldengineer.com/maccaching-v023-released.md): This one took me much longer to complete than I had planned. I decided to go back and fix things I was putting off. For example, the Preferences work now and the program won't… - [Arkansas commissioners not ready for Geocaching.](https://www.baldengineer.com/arkansas-commissioners-not-ready-for-geocaching.md): (http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2006/11/17/News/338554.html) (http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2006/11/17/News/338554.html) not to allow Geocaching permits on agency… - [v0.2.3 is almost ready](https://www.baldengineer.com/v023-is-almost-ready.md): Tonight I spent most of time working on usability issues. For example, now you can select multiple caches to delete or move to a playlist. Also fixed the navigation in the… - [Milestone: Cache named after me.](https://www.baldengineer.com/milestone-cache-named-after-me.md): The other day I had some time between client visits, so I set out to look for a couple of caches. The cache,… - [Paperless by iPod](https://www.baldengineer.com/paperless-by-ipod.md): Next week i start traveling for an extended period. One of the reasons I started this project was to help with caching in new areas. So I'm working on importing a pocket query… - [Bomb Squad Visits a Cemetery](https://www.baldengineer.com/bomb-squad-visits-a-cemetery.md): From the St. Petersburg Times: "The two mysterious visitors huddled around the sign to Dunedin Cemetery, poking and snooping around. Someone at former Dunedin… - [Quick follow-up release: 0.2.1](https://www.baldengineer.com/quick-follow-up-release-021.md): After "releasing" 0.2, I realized there were a couple of hard-coded things which don't work on other systems. I've resolved them. You can now delete waypoints from the library… - [Podcacher Logo](https://www.baldengineer.com/podcacher-logo.md): - [Podcacher - Geocaching Podcast](https://www.baldengineer.com/podcacher-geocaching-podcast.md): The other day I ran across a great podcast called Podcacher. As of this week, they are up to 76… - [Halloween Release](https://www.baldengineer.com/halloween-release.md): The screenshot isn't up to date, I didn't spell check the README, the icon doesn't show up, and the list of known issues is longer than the features. However. If you're looking… - [Progressing toward v0.2](https://www.baldengineer.com/progressing-toward-v02.md): I made significant progress this weekend towards v0.2. I am able to download (transfer) GPS coordinates from my Garmin eTrex Venture and import them into the library. I paused… - [Roadmap to v1.0](https://www.baldengineer.com/roadmap-to-v10.md): 0.1: \- Basic Libary Support \- Basic Playlist Support \- Integrate the coordinate converter utility 0.2: \- Initial gpsbabel support. Upload/Download \- Expanded GPX support… - [Version 0.1](https://www.baldengineer.com/version-01.md): MacCaching is best describe as iTunes for Geocaches. When I received my Garmin eTrex Venture for my birthday, I was dissappointed to see the software selection for my iMac.… - [penny-backer bridge.jpg](https://www.baldengineer.com/penny-backer-bridgejpg.md): - [About CMiYC.com](https://www.baldengineer.com/about-cmiyccom.md): CMiYC is my online name which I have used for over a decade. I first started using my online name during the BBS-era. The cyberspace name meant, good luck finding me since I…