By languer, Electro-Tech-Online community member I was pressed to find a solution for a test automation need that needed to be simple and inexpensive. This led me to research for an inexpensive GPIB controller I could interface via USB and would allow me to control test equipment with. I planned to control the test equipment […]
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Power-saving DC solenoid driver provides initial full power actuation followed by PWM hold
by crutschow, Electro-Tech-Online community member To save power and reduce temperature rise, a solenoid or relay coil can be initially energized with full power to rapidly complete the solenoid stroke, and then reduce its voltage (current) to just what’s required to maintain the solenoid position. Often the voltage can be lowered to 35-50% of the nominal […]
A low-dropout CC/CV 12V lead-acid battery charger with auto trickle-charge
by Crutschow, Electro-Tech-Online community member For the best charging of lead-acid batteries a three-step technique is often used, consisting of an initial constant-current charge, then a high constant-voltage top-off, and finally a lower constant voltage trickle-charge. But a simpler two-step technique can also work fairly well, which is to start with a constant-current until the […]
Getting started in electronics: core equipment
by Spec This article gives a list of equipment and material needed to get started in electronics. The essential equipment needn’t be expensive. Where to do your electronics project At its most elementary, all you need is a board of some kind, a table, and a mains supply. You also need a suitable room, which […]
