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Build a Thermocouple Amplifier and Custom KiCad Libraries

Build a Thermocouple Amplifier and Custom KiCad Libraries

Building on skills developed in the introductory KiCad tutorial, this article will focus on creating custom parts and adding them to a local library, expanding the default libraries to include community repositories, and contributing parts back into the open source ecosystem. The end product will be a MAX31855 K-type thermocouple amplifier which can be used for a huge array of temperature sensing projects.


Projects Aug 10, 2015 by Patrick Lloyd
Nodal Analysis and Dependent Sources

Nodal Analysis and Dependent Sources

The use of dependent sources when using Nodal Analysis.


How to Use a DHT11 with a PIC16F628A and LCD

How to Use a DHT11 with a PIC16F628A and LCD

How to read humidity and temperature from a DHT11 and display it on a LCD with a PIC microcontroller. In this example we're going to use a PIC16F628A.


PICAXE to PC Connections

PICAXE to PC Connections

This article describes in detail the connections necessary for two way communications between PICAXE microcontrollers and personal computers. Both serial connections and USB to serial conversion connections are covered.


Electronics Design on Linux

Electronics Design on Linux

Interested in using Linux for your everyday tasks, but worried about compatibility? This article will provide a brief overview of the new tools available to you.


Introduction to KiCad on Ubuntu

Introduction to KiCad on Ubuntu

Learn how to install the new and improved KiCad on Ubuntu 15.04 and then build a simple microcontroller board to blink an RGB LED.


Communicating with an EFM8 Microcontroller via USB

Communicating with an EFM8 Microcontroller via USB

Many embedded applications benefit from a communications interface that allows for convenient data transfer between a PC and a microcontroller. This article explains how to use the virtual COM port library from Silicon Laboratories to send data from a Windows application to an EFM8 microcontroller.


Projects Jul 17, 2015 by Robert Keim
Raspberry Pi – Setup and Management

Raspberry Pi – Setup and Management

When you buy a Raspberry Pi, you just buy a printed circuit board which doesn’t even come with a power supply or operating system. This tutorial is concerned with getting your Raspberry Pi set up and ready to use.


Projects Jul 15, 2015 by Tim Youngblood
Build Your Own Alarm System with an LM386 Amplifier and an NPN Transistor

Build Your Own Alarm System with an LM386 Amplifier and an NPN Transistor

Build an analog booby-trap alarm system with an LM386 amplifier and an NPN transistor. This alarm system is activated by a trip sensor that sets off a screeching noise, alerting everyone and scaring off thieves.


Projects Jul 13, 2015 by Patrick Lloyd
Fritzing Takes Your Design from Concept to PCB

Fritzing Takes Your Design from Concept to PCB

Fritzing is an open-source software package that makes designing a PCB a more attainable reality.


Special Cases in Nodal Analysis

Special Cases in Nodal Analysis

This article describes certain special cases when performing nodal analysis.


Controlling an LCD via SPI: An Introduction to Project Development with an EFM8 Microcontroller

Controlling an LCD via SPI: An Introduction to Project Development with an EFM8 Microcontroller

A simple LCD control project with an EFM8 evaluation board demonstrates basic principles of embedded development.


Projects Jul 08, 2015 by Robert Keim
Five Places to Find Part Info Online

Five Places to Find Part Info Online

These online sources not only help you find part data quickly, but can also help you determine availability and manage bills of materials.


Remote Viewing: Communicating with an Arduino via Infrared Light

Remote Viewing: Communicating with an Arduino via Infrared Light

An infrared (IR) light sensor allows the use of an Arduino to receive and decode signals from a TV remote control.


Projects Jun 14, 2015 by Tim Youngblood
Beginner’s Guide to the Arduino

Beginner’s Guide to the Arduino

This project will help you get started with the Arduino, including a description of the different types of Arduinos, how to download the Arduino software development environment, and describe the different shields that are available for the Arduino along with the accessories you will need to develop Arduino projects.


Projects Jun 12, 2015 by Tim Youngblood
Interface a Seven Segment Display to an Arduino

Interface a Seven Segment Display to an Arduino

For many applications, there's no need to use a more expensive liquid crystal display to display data. A simple seven-segment display is sufficient.


Projects Jun 02, 2015 by Tim Youngblood