Schematics on Bald Engineer

Creating Custom KiCad Schematic Symbol in 5 Steps

Wed, 14 Nov 2018 14:21:23 +0000

A new project I have started working on involves the Apple IIgs. It was Apple’s last 16-bit (and 8-bit) computer. Inside are many application specific integrated circuits, or ASICs, that make the IIgs an extraordinary member of the Apple II family. One chip, in particular, is called the “MEGA-II.” This chip takes all of the individual logic chips from the original Apple II design and incorporates them into a single 84-pin PLCC.

What's the difference between Series and Parallel Circuits?

Wed, 27 May 2015 14:00:28 +0000

Tutorial on schematics basics The funny thing about schematics is that they are much easier to draw than they are to read. There are many common circuits. When an experienced engineer looks at them, it’s like a second language. When someone less experienced looks at them, it looks like random lines and symbols thrown together at the last-minute. (Or maybe that’s just the schematics *I* draw.) Other than reading Schematic Symbols themselves, one of the basic skill necessary to read a schematic is recognizing series and parallel circuits.

Five ways to make a schematic (quickly)

Wed, 29 Apr 2015 14:00:37 +0000

Engineers make a schematic to explain their circuits. One time I was looking for a non-tourist pub in Japan. I asked someone for help. She said, “I’m sorry, but I do not speak good English. I will bring my friend, and she will draw you a map.” (Exact quote!) The map her friend drew, gave directions to a bar with a “Neon Yellow Sing.” She meant “sign.”

EAGLE: Creating a Custom Library for your own components

Fri, 03 Jan 2014 12:00:38 +0000

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 Library, which gets stored in the custom directory. There are a number of steps involved, but once setup custom libraries give you a place to store components you create as well as the ability to copy other parts into your library.

Introducing the AddOhms TutorialCast

Sun, 05 May 2013 20:53:51 +0000

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 subjects. Each video will be in the range of 3-5 minutes. While putting together the first couple of topics I started to realize I wanted this to be something to stand on its own. So I have created a separate webpage, twitter account, and YouTube Channel for this TutorialCast called “AddOhms.”

HackEDA: Collecting and Sharing reusable pieces of electronic designs

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:14:56 +0000

One of the most commonly used phrases when writing software is “reusable code.” From the Wikipedia article on “Code Reuse”. Reusable code is: the use of existing software, or software knowledge, to build new software. Software coders have been sharing and re-using code since they first start programming. So why can’t this same idea be applied to hardware design? Doesn’t it seem silly to redraw the ATmega328 for an Arduino based project or even the really simple linear regulator circuit? Well, it can thanks to HackEDA you can start using reusable code to save time (and from creating mistakes).

Simple Effect using Chromokey and Final Cut Pro X

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 14:30:58 +0000

Editing video has been something I enjoyed doing since High School. There I used my first tape-based NLE video system to make a Jeopardy episode where I played both a contestant and the host. In the skit I got into an argument with myself. Of course that was long before tools like Final Cut, After Effects, or even digital video cameras existed. Now anyone can do cheap effects for fun.

New Digi-Key tool lets Engineers share schematics - Electronic Products

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:33:36 +0000

Tools like National’s (now TI) WebBENCH have allowed engineers to design power supplies without downloading any software for quite some time. Recently I got an account at Upverter.com. This web application is focused schematic capture with social sharing. Just announced this week, Digi-Key is looking to enter this area with their new web based tool to share schematics, Scheme-It(sm). I haven’t had a chance to put it through its paces yet, but I look forward to comparing to Upverter and Eagle version 6 soon.