This dual-level float charger was designed for a 6V (three 2V cells) 2.5Ah battery. D2 LED was added for visual indication of charge completion, D3 indicates power, D4 LED presents overcharge condition, etc. 6V lead-acid battery charger is built using the UC3906 chip. UC3906 contains all of the necessary circuitry to optimally control the charge and hold cycle for sealed lead-acid batteries. UC3906 IC monitors and controls both the output voltage and current of the charger through three separate charge states; a high current bulk-charge state, a controlled over-charge, and a precision float-charge, or standby state. Optimum charging conditions are maintained over an extended temperature range with an internal reference that tracks the nominal temperature characteristics of the lead-acid cell. A typical standby supply current requirement of only 1.6mA allows these ICs to predictably monitor ambient temperatures. Separate voltage loop and current limit amplifiers regulate the output voltage and current levels in the charger by controlling the onboard driver. Voltage and current sense comparators are used to sense the battery condition and respond with logic inputs to the charge state logic.
This is a Full wave rectifier project built using MAX44267 dual OPAMP which provides true zero output with a single supply. The circuit converts Bipolar/AC input into full-wave output. CN1 is provided for sinewave input, CN2 helps to connect the power and output. Operating supply 15V DC, D1 power LED.
The MAX44267 precision, low-noise, low-drift dual operational amplifier offers true-zero output that allows the output to cross zero maximizing the dynamic range of an ADC and increasing resolution. In addition, the input common-mode range extends from +13.5V down to -12V. The MAX44267 integrates charge-pump circuitry that generates the negative voltage rail in conjunction with external capacitors.
Full Wave Rectifier Using Single Supply OPAMP – [Link]
Are you also sometimes not sure whether you are using the correct data cable acronyms that are mostly used for Ethernet? UTP vs FTP, STP vs FTP. Let’s have a look at the difference between them.
Today we already know that if someone 20-30 years ago felt that the Internet would be a “big thing”, they were right.
However, only few seem to have assumed that the Internet would have such a strong impact on industry and the private sector.
In case of industrial applications, the currently evolving “Single Pair Ethernet” (SPE) technology is even more advantageous. It is mainly due to the simplification of installation and significant space and cable costs savings.
Despite the rise of wireless technology, wired installations have their advantages and they remain a major pillar for data communications, especially in industry.
Construction of data cables can be made of solid conductors as well as stranded ones. Solid core cables are suitable especially for fixed installations. Cables with a stranded construction are much more flexible and are especially suitable for flexible installations, production of patch cables and the like.
Thanks to the Internet being used at work and also at home, perhaps everyone has at least heard acronyms used for cables, such as UTP or FTP. However, many times we use the same acronym to refer to quite different cables, which we encounter especially in various articles, blogs, Internet discussions and elsewhere.
Let’s have a brief recap of the meaning and differences between the individual cables, as it is defined in ISO/IEC 11801:200. An explanation of the nomenclature, as well as a clear table, will certainly be of help.
ROHM’s linear charger for low-voltage batteries achieves low-voltage charging over a wide range by improving the stability of the internal circuit
ROHM has developed a battery charger IC that supports low-voltage charging of not only lithium-ion but also all-solid and semi-solid state rechargeable batteries that use novel materials for the electrode part and batteries that adopt different terminal compositions. The BD71631QWZ achieves low-voltage charging over a wide range from 2.0 V to 4.7 V by improving the stability of the internal circuit.
Features
Compatible with all-solid/semi-solid state rechargeable batteries requiring low-voltage charging
Package size optimized for applications equipped with thin rechargeable batteries
Achieves optimal CCCV charging according to the characteristics of the rechargeable battery
Abracon’s precision SMD VC/TCXO devices are designed to meet emerging 5G infrastructure requirements
Abracon’s AST3TDA and AST3TDA53 temperature-controlled oscillator (TCXO) series deliver reliable, high-precision timing operation in compact form factors for emerging 5G applications facing increased performance demands and space constraints.
The AST3TDA and AST3TDA53 devices are ideal for meeting design requirements for 5G infrastructure applications such as macro base stations (AAU, DU/CU), small cells (micro, pico, femto), and Wi-Fi 6/6E networking.
Rising data capacity needs of connected, cloud-driven technology is propelling 5G network densification. These developing telecom and networking equipment require components that can support the heightened quality of service (QoS) demands over extended temperature operation while alleviating increased board space pressures.
The ultra-precision reference oscillators are designed to provide superior frequency stability performance (sub ±100 ppb) over wide operating temperatures (-40⁰C to +105⁰C) for emerging 5G-centric systems. Additionally, Abracon has optimally configured these solutions to simultaneously provide state-of-the-art, close-in phase noise performance. For example, the AST3TDA53 series exhibit ±280 ppb stability over temperature with better than -150 dBc/Hz @ 10kHz offset in a miniature 5.0 mm x 3.2 mm package. The AST3TDA series can sustain frequency stabilities as tight as ±50 ppb in a 7.0 mm x 5.0 mm x 2.2 mm package size.
Features
Wide operating temperature range (-40ºC to +105ºC) with high stability options
Newhaven Display’s TFTs have a powerful backlight to make them visible in bright lighting conditions, including direct sunlight
Newhaven Display’s 5″ TFT LCDs are available with sunlight-readable screen technology and deliver superior brightness. This addition of sunlight readable TFT LCD modules features 3M enhancement film and LED backlights rated up to 1,000 cd/m2 to deliver brightness levels suitable for any environment, including direct sunlight. The 5″ sunlight-readable TFTs are also available with added capacitive touch panel.
Waltham has introduced the ENC series 24-bit photoencoders with integrated pushbuttons.
Based on improvements to the already successful 16-bit optical encoder, we developed this new encoder. In addition to a 50% increase in braking position, the 24-bit encoder also includes a right-angle connector socket (which is often requested by users), making it easier for users to install. The central encoder axis can be rotated smoothly and precisely, making functions such as mode selection and menu navigation easier to operate, as well as fast and accurate responses to user input. Pressing down on the encoder axis activates the integrated button, making the encoder a way of interface control. This all-in-one, clean design makes the operation of the encoder as easy as clicking a button.
The new 24-bitcentral selector switch is smooth to the touch and enables fast rotation. The output of the encoder’s 2-bitrating code makes it very easy to detect the direction and amplitude of rotation by any microcontroller the user prefers.
The ENC series of 24-bitencoders are ideal for applications such as in-car entertainment clustering, navigation and volume control buttons. It is also suitable for applications in medical devices such as menu navigation, power cycling and strength regulation. In industrial environments,it performs well in mode selection and other similar features of the control panel.
“TheENCseries of 24-bitencoders builds on the success of the ENCseries, providing users with more functional and featured products while making installation easier. C&K’scomprehensive focus on user expectations and needs reflects our ongoing commitment to providing the solutions users need to create the high-quality products and services they expect.”
To learn more about C&K’snew ENCseries of 24-bitoptoelectronic switches, including details and specifications, please click on the links below:
ACEINNA announced the high current ±65 Amp MCx1101 Current Sensor, the industry’s most accurate and highest bandwidth current sensor. Designed for WBG (wideband gap) applications, and available in 3.3- and 5-Volt versions, this highly accurate, wide bandwidth AMR-based (Anisotropic Magnetoresistive) current sensor is ideal for a wide range of next generation power systems and applications. Units are now available for sampling and volume shipments.
The MCx1101’s fast response and high bandwidth is ideal for fast switching SiC and GaN based power stages and enables power system designers to make use of the higher speeds and smaller components enabled by wide band-gap switches. Output step response time is just 0.3 µs. The MCx1101 also provides an integrated over current detection flag to help implement the OCD (Over Current Detection) required in modern power systems. Over-current detection response time is a fast 0.2 µs.
“ACEINNA’s MCx1101 current sensors are fully integrated, bi-directional and provide much higher DC and AC accuracy and dynamic range compared with alternative solutions,” says Teoman Ustun, VP of Marketing, ACEINNA. “For example, the new ±65 Amp versions have a typical accuracy of ±3%. This new current sensor utilizes an industry standard SOIC-16 package with a low impedance (0.9 milli-ohm) current path and are UL/IEC/EN60950-1 certified for isolated applications.”
This new current sensor delivers a unique combination of high accuracy, 1.5 MHz signal bandwidth with industry benchmark phase shift vs. frequency, fast output step response and 4.8 kV isolation making them ideal for current sensing in fast current control loops and protection for high performance power supplies, inverters, and motor control applications.
In addition to the new ±65 Amp version, ACEINNA’s current sensor family includes ±50, ±20, and ±5 Amp ranges, and is offered in both fixed gain (MCA1101) and ratiometric gain (MCR1101) versions.
Win 1 of 12 prizes in partnership with Farnell for each of the 12 Days of Christmas
For this year’s Christmas giveaway oemsecrets.com has partnered with Farnell to give away 12 tools for an “engineer’s toolkit” from Multicomp Pro including bench power supplies, soldering stations, and multimeters. Simply use the link below to enter
We’re pleased to announce the 12 winners of the #MulticompPro Products with @Farnell_Avnet are:
1.Dean N.
2.Dwayne F.
3.Dieter E.
4.Zeljko B.
5.Alessandro T.
6.Terry M.
7.Damjan S.
8.John H.
9.Julian Z.
10.Harald A.
11.Pedro C.
12.Jens K.
Congrats! We’ll be in touch via email pic.twitter.com/pH1KdaBAen
Designing a new hardware product is a road filled with potentially expensive twists and turns which if not properly managed could result in heavy losses both in time and money. While designing and manufacturing the electronics unit, in my book, remains the most challenging part, the enclosure and mechanical parts are equally key. Additive manufacturing, via 3D printing, in recent times has provided makers and prototype engineers with an easy way to quickly develop enclosures for their projects, however, often times the quality of the prints are usually low (not so durable and neat) and the production takes way more time than is encouraging, all of this, usually as a result of the limitations of the cheap 3d printers deployed. To solve this, makers, startups, product developers, etc., typically send their designs to Industrial 3D printing service providers like PCBway.
The choices when it comes to selecting the right manufacturer can be quite tricky, thus, for today’s article, we will be evaluating the capabilities of one of the most popular names in the business, China-based PCBway. As a tag-along, we will also review their recently launched CNC machining service.
PCBWay is definitely a name familiar to most folks, I dare say everyone, in the maker/hardware community for the excellent PCB-related services they provide, from the manufacturing of different types of PCBs (flex, rigid, multilayer PCBs, etc) to their PCBA, prototyping services. and multiple ecosystem support programs. In March 2021, as a response to requests by customers for them to launch a CNC / 3D printing service to make the development of enclosures easy, PCBWay announced the launch of their 3D printing service with the goal of becoming a one-stop-shop with everything customers need for the manufacturing of new hardware products.
Launched as a rapid prototyping section which features 4 major services category including; CNC Machining, Sheet Metal Fabrication. Injection Molding, 3D Printing. Our focus for this article, however, will be the 3D printing and CNC Machining service.
Our enclosure printed on PCBway.com
Capabilities
With a distributed network of over 50, state-of-the-art, industrial 3D printers with build volumes of up to 600mm x 600mm x 420mm, PCBWay, from the get-go was focused on establishing itself as a leader in the 3D printing ecosystem. Offering services ranging from the manufacturing of prototypes to product grade parts using diverse 3D printing technologies including; Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), Vaccum Casting, Selective Laser Melting (SLM), Digital Light Processing (DLP), Stereolithography (SLA), and selective laser sintering (SLS).
In the same vein, the CNC machining service features state-of-the-art machines capable of diverse operations ranging from 3-axis milling, 5-axis machining, and all shades of turning.
Three things that have come to characterize PCBWay for most makers who have used them for PCB manufacturing include; Intellectual property protection, great turnaround time (especially), and quality outputs. These same standards and characteristics are the hallmark of the 3D printing and CNC machining services. To ensure IP Protection, customers go through an onboarding process where contractual obligations and non-disclosure agreements are signed. As with the PCB service, customers get dedicated support personnel who monitor updates from the factory to ensure both project timelines and quality levels are met.
One of the coolest features of the newly launched services for me is the real-time online quotation system. Similar to the process of ordering PCBs, quotes are provided immediately after your CAD file is uploaded and different parameters like color and material, etc., are selected. In most situations, the price varies based on the type of material and color, but you wouldn’t have to wait or engage in back and forth emails to see what the material you have decided to use will cost you. This helps with decision-making and speeding up project timelines in hierarchical organizations as you can quickly inform the decision-makers about changes in price.
Test Print
To test their service we uploaded our SafeBee – A GPS Tracker for Beehives enclosure to the quotation system. The system provided a quote of 56.33 USD without shipping to our lab. This cost may sound ok for a prototype but not good for a production cycle. The material we choose was Standard Resin Printing in white material with grey paint finishing. You can see the end product in the photos above.
In addition to providing an instant guaranteed quotation, the online ordering system also provides instant DFM feedback which spotlights errors in your design that may prevent you from getting the desired outcome. This reduces the need for multiple iterations on your part, thereby reducing cost, and ensuring you stay on track with timelines.
Once an order is placed, production status, updated in real-time, is available on the order page to help you know the current stage of your production and the next stage. In time-constrained projects, this could be a useful tool for planning the development and delivery of other parts of the project. The average lead time irrespective of volume is usually around 2 days, so you won’t have to follow up for long. The delivery time was about 6-7 days from China to Greece with DHL.
The internal of the 3D Printed enclosure
Materials Available
Support for the material you want to work with is one of the many things to consider when selecting a 3D Printing manufacturer. Across the multiple 3D Printing technologies it supports, PCBWay’s 3D printing service supports different grades of a wide range of materials including;
Resin
Nylon
ABS
PLA
TPU
PC
PETG
ASA
For its Selective Laser Melting based 3D printing service, PCBWay supports metallic materials including:
Aluminum
Stainless Steel
Titanium
Tool Steel
The support for material lines holds true, not just for 3D printing. For the CNC Machining service, PCBWay supports many metals, and elastomers suitable for both prototyping and production including:
Aluminum
Stainless Steel
Brass
Copper
Mild Steel
Alloy Steel
Tool Steel
Spring Steel
For the plastic CNC Machining services, some of the materials supported include multiple types of:
ABS (3 types)
Polycarbonate (PC)
Nylon (2 types)
Polypropylene (PP)
POM (Delrin/Acetal)
PTFE (Teflon)
PMMA (Acrylic)
Polyethylene (PE)
PEEK
Bakelite
Rubber
In situations where your desired material is not on the list, or you can’t seem to decide on the best material to use, the service allows you to select a custom option under the material drop-down on the quotation page. This will provide you with the opportunity to specify the features, tolerances, inspection, and quantity needs.
Conclusion
The delivered enclosure was high quality with a smooth surface finish and our overall experience was positive. The only point we could mention is the high cost of this service that goes up to ~100 USD including shipping with DHL.
Personal experience with the PCBWay 3D printing service makes me want to recommend it, but the experience of others from Youtubers and bloggers who have used the system and have received the same consistent quality delivery, makes me want to go a step higher and endorse the service.
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