Electronics tools

InTheMail | Voltlog #488

In the latest edition of InTheMail, I unbox and review a treasure trove of electronics tools and gadgets from AliExpress and Amazon. From high-quality pliers to versatile USB-C connectors and even a unique IR pre-heater, this video is packed with valuable insights and recommendations for hobbyists of all levels.

Kicking things off, I share my honest thoughts on a set of pliers that failed to meet expectations, followed by a handy pair of scissor-type cutters perfect for trimming heat shrink and enamel wire. Next up, a carbon fiber spudger adds an anti-static and ESD-safe option to my toolkit. The video also showcases the compact and open-source olmBoard modules, featuring impressive specs like a wide input voltage range and low power consumption.

USB-C connectors, a magnetic rotary position sensor breakout, and a digital speaker amp board are also highlighted. For those working with DC motors, I review breakout boards for the DRV8871 H-bridge driver, offering overcurrent and over-temperature protection. Practical accessories like a tactical shoulder strap, corkscrew bottle opener, and wetsuit hanger are also covered.

One standout item is the IR pre-heater, which has revolutionized my soldering and desoldering workflow. By pre-heating PCBs, I can minimize stress on surrounding components and achieve better results, especially for double-sided or heavily populated boards. Finally, I explore the potential of syringe filters for cleaning and reusing ultrasonic cleaner liquids more effectively.

RIGOL DM858 Multimeter Review | Voltlog #485

The Rigol DM858 is a high-quality multimeter from a reputable manufacturer, boasting a 7-inch touchscreen display and a sleek form factor reminiscent of their oscilloscope line. With a wide range of measurement capabilities, including 10A current, 10mF capacitance, and 0.03% accuracy on DC voltage, it certainly packs a punch in terms of specifications.

One of the standout features is the web view and control interface, allowing you to access and control the multimeter remotely from any computer or mobile device connected to your local network. This level of convenience is a welcome addition to any modern lab setup. However, the DM858 is not without its flaws.

During testing, a concerning auto-ranging bug was discovered, where the meter fails to detect the need to switch to a higher voltage range, potentially leading to incorrect readings and even internal damage. Rigol has been notified, and a firmware fix is hopefully on the way. Another disappointment is the lack of a built-in data logging feature, which seems counterintuitive for a multimeter in this price range.

While the user manual mentions data logging capabilities, the implementation appears incomplete and unintuitive. Other minor gripes include the inability to use math functions in auto-range mode, the lack of a thermocouple probe or USB cable in the package, and the recommended software being outdated and incompatible with modern Windows versions.

Despite these drawbacks, the DM858 remains a compelling option for those seeking a multimeter with a large touchscreen display and remote control capabilities. Its unique form factor may appeal to those with limited bench space or a preference for monitor-mounted instruments. Priced at around $500 (or €440 in the EU), the DM858 competes with alternatives like the UNI-T UT8805E, which offers better specifications at a lower cost but lacks the touchscreen and web control features.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Rigol DM858 will depend on your specific needs and priorities. If the touchscreen, remote control, and unique form factor outweigh the concerns raised in this review, it could be a worthwhile investment for your workbench.

VESA Mount Arm For Rigol DHO800 Series | Voltlog #474

Elevate your workbench ergonomics with a simple yet ingenious solution – mounting your Rigol DHO800 oscilloscope on an articulated monitor arm. In this innovative setup, I’ll guide you through the process of maximizing your workspace while improving your workflow efficiency. The key to this hack lies in the Rigol DHO800’s standard VESA mount, allowing you to seamlessly integrate it with a monitor arm.

Imagine having your oscilloscope swing in and out of your work area effortlessly, freeing up valuable bench space for other tools and projects. No more awkward positioning or constant rearranging – just a clean, organized setup tailored to your needs. Choosing the right monitor arm is crucial. While high-end options with gas struts and multiple articulating points exist, a simple, spring-based arm like the Maclean MC-458 can be a cost-effective solution.

At just $30, it offers a weight range of up to 7kg, perfect for the lightweight Rigol DHO800 (approximately 1.5kg). If your oscilloscope is too light for the arm’s tension, a clever hack is to add artificial weight using wheel weights from a tire shop. Simply attach them to the VESA mount, and voilà – your oscilloscope will balance perfectly with the arm’s force.

Integrating the monitor arm into an aluminum profile workbench is a breeze, thanks to the standard channel spring nuts and M8 bolts. Adjust the height, angle, and rotation to suit your preferences, and enjoy a truly ergonomic viewing experience.

This Soldering Iron Is Actually Nice | Voltlog #471

In recent years, the majority of soldering iron manufacturers have switched to using cartridge-style tips, which integrate the heater and thermocouple for optimal thermal conductivity and fast response. As a result, most soldering irons and stations that use these tips offer adequate soldering performance for the average user.

While reviewing thermal performance in great detail may not be as crucial nowadays, aspects like usability and accuracy are more important to consider. The FNIRSI HS-01 soldering iron is a portable and capable option that impresses with its excellent build quality and functionality. It comes with a 65W GaN USB-C charger, a flexible silicone-insulated USB-C cable, and a compact holder for the iron.

The tips are similar to Hakko T12 or T15 but shorter, allowing for greater precision when soldering small components. One standout feature is the intuitive temperature adjustment in 10-degree increments, making it quick and easy to dial in the desired setting. The iron also offers a sleek OLED display, a power percentage bar graph, and various settings accessible through a menu system.

In testing, the FNIRSI HS-01 handled soldering tasks with ease, from melting solder on large pads to precisely soldering pin headers and SMD components. Its ability to run from a power bank adds to its portability, making it an excellent choice for on-the-go soldering or as a backup to a dedicated soldering station.

Overall, the FNIRSI HS-01 soldering iron is a highly recommended option for those seeking a portable and capable soldering solution, offering excellent value for its performance and features.

The New Rigol DHO800 Series Review | Voltlog #469

The wait is finally over for Rigol enthusiasts! After eight long years, the renowned oscilloscope brand has unveiled the highly anticipated DHO800 series, a remarkable upgrade to the beloved DS1054Z. As a proud owner of the latter, I was thrilled to get my hands on the top-of-the-line DHO814 model, courtesy of Eleshop.eu and Rigol.

Straight out of the box, the DHO814 exudes an air of modernity and refinement. Its compact, featherweight form factor is a stark contrast to its robust predecessor, promising to save precious real estate on your workbench. The glossy, 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1024×600 pixels adds a touch of elegance, while the familiar array of buttons and knobs ensures a seamless transition for seasoned users.

Under the hood, the DHO814 packs a punch with an array of impressive upgrades. The bandwidth now starts at a respectable 70MHz, with the top-tier model boasting a 100MHz capability. The sampling rate has received a modest boost to 1.25GS/s, while the vertical resolution has undergone a game-changing leap to 12 bits, promising unparalleled signal capture and visualization.

One of the standout features is the UltraAcquire mode, which enables a staggering waveform capture rate of up to 1 million waveforms per second, ensuring you never miss a transient event. The memory depth has also increased to 25Mpts, providing ample headroom for intricate signal analysis.

2023’s Best Electronics Engineer Gifts | 462

As an electronics engineer, having the right tools can make all the difference in productivity and efficiency. With the 11.11 Shopping Festival just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to upgrade your workbench or surprise your engineer friend with a thoughtful gift. In this guide, we’ve curated a list of top-notch products that are sure to delight any tech enthusiast.

First on the list is high-quality ESD protection from Welectron. Their anti-static mats are not only durable and chemical-resistant but also free from unpleasant odors, ensuring a comfortable working environment. Whether you need a large mat for your workbench or a compact one for your computer desk, Welectron has got you covered.

Next up is the highly anticipated Raspberry Pi 5, a true powerhouse for any electronics engineer or hobbyist. With a significant performance boost and new features like PCIe Gen2 and an RTC module, this little computer packs a punch. As an official Raspberry Pi distributor, Welectron is the go-to source for snagging one of these coveted devices.

For those in need of a thermal camera, the options are diverse and tailored to different use cases. The DytSpectrumOwl is a top choice for PCB inspection on your workbench, while the UNI-T UTi260B and Infiray P2 PRO offer portability and macro lens capabilities, respectively. Whichever you choose, a thermal camera can unlock new levels of productivity and troubleshooting prowess.

The Sugon 8650 Hot Air Station is a game-changer for soldering and rework tasks. With its precise temperature regulation, massive power output, and user-friendly interface, this station can handle even the most demanding jobs with ease. Investing in this top-of-the-line tool is a surefire way to elevate your soldering skills.

Last but not least, the FNIRSI USB power monitors (FNB58 and FNB48) are sleek and highly capable tools for measuring USB power delivery. With their exceptional resolution, cable chip detection, and Bluetooth data logging, these monitors are a must-have for any engineer working with USB-C and power delivery protocols.

InTheMail | Voltlog #461

As the 11.11 festival approaches, bringing with it a wave of tantalizing discounts, it’s the perfect time to explore some exciting new electronics and tools. This latest InTheMail video showcases a diverse range of products that cater to both the passionate hobbyist and the professional technician. One standout item is the smart UV curing lamp, a game-changer for PCB repairs.

Designed specifically for curing UV-curable solder masks, this lamp offers convenience and efficiency. No more tedious aiming of a UV flashlight – simply place your PCB under the lamp, set the timer, and let it work its magic. The raised corners ensure compatibility with various PCB sizes, making this a must-have tool for any electronics enthusiast.

For those seeking a lithium-ion battery solution, the featured battery pack case is an intriguing option. Designed to mimic the form factor of a standard 12V lead-acid battery, it offers the ability to create custom lithium-ion packs using 18650 cells. While the charging capabilities of the included BMS board raise some questions, this product opens up exciting possibilities for upgrading devices with improved capacity and discharge rates.

Cable management is a recurring theme, with the introduction of screw-hole cable ties and cable combs. The former offers a neat solution for routing wires and cables, while the latter promises to bring order and organization to even the most chaotic cable installations. Safety is also a priority, with the inclusion of a face protection mask.

While its intended use in the kitchen may be questionable, it could prove invaluable for tasks like Dremel work or polishing, shielding your face from airborne debris.