An RF detector with a dynamic range of 40 dB can now be obtained from Linear Technology (http://www.lineartech.com/pdf/5505i.pdf). The type LTC5505, housed in a SOT23 SMD package can handle... Read more
The joysticks used in games and modeling contain two potentiometers with a resistance of about 100 kΩ, which turn through 60 to 90 degrees. In fact, only one third to one-quarter of the tota... Read more
Electronics engineers very often need to measure low voltages with great accuracy, for example, the voltage from a pressure or temperature detector, or the output voltage of a Wheatstone bri... Read more
Color LED strips are now available at low cost in all sorts of types and sizes. With the controller circuit described here, you can set your own colors and even configure and run complete li... Read more
In many circuits, we need to generate an internal adjustable voltage. This circuit shows how it is possible to use a trusty old NE555 timer IC and a bit of external circuitry to create a vol... Read more
Current consumption is always an important consideration when designing battery-powered devices. This circuit shows how a seven-segment display can be driven by a microcontroller in a way id... Read more
An LC oscillator is usually adjusted using a variable capacitor. However, for frequencies below around 100 kHz, this calls for a variable capacitor with a value in the nanofarad range, which... Read more
This circuit clearly falls under the heading “Why didn’t I think of that earlier?” Virtually everyone who works with electronics has been faced with the need or desire to limit the inrush cu... Read more
Relays or contractors are often used to switch mains powered inductive loads such as motors, valves or electromagnets. When the device is switched off an arc can form across the relay contac... Read more
These days there are many types of intelligent LEDs available. These LEDs flash or change their color, slowly or quickly and with different color combinations. Those LEDs that gradually chan... Read more
