11 October 2008

While sales of large-screen plasma and LCD TV sets are booming, people are still confused as to the choice: plasma or LCD? This situation has recently become a little clouded as "Mura" faults become evident on some LCD panels. The real kicker is that Mura faults may not be evident when you buy your set.

09 October 2008

Last month we presented the circuit, specifications and parts list for our new high-performance Railpower IV model train controller. Now it's time for the construction details - and we show you how to set it up for best performance.

07 October 2008

Hooked up to a desktop or laptop computer, this USB oscilloscope and its supplied PC software provide a large range of functions, including data logging. With the optional signal generator you can also test audio equipment, measure THD and do frequency sweeps.

16 September 2008

Did you know that it's now mandatory for electricians to provide a written safety test report when they install new wiring or do repairs to your home, office or factory? That is quite an onerous and time-consuming task but the Metrel Instaltest 3017 does all the tests specified in the AS/NZS3017 standard. As well, it provides a step-by-step guide for electricians when they are doing visual checks as well as the electrical tests.

11 September 2008

Last month, we published the circuit of our new LED Strobe & Tachometer and showed how to build the main unit and the strobe light. This month, we describe the assembly of the optional Photo-Interruptor and IR Reflector Amplifier boards. We also describe how the unit is used.

10 September 2008

With a small and low-cost add-on PC board, the DSP Musicolour can be operated via an infrared remote control - very handy if you want to use it in hard-to-reach places.

09 September 2008

Last month, we introduced our new Ultra-LD Mk.2 200W Amplifier module and described the circuit. This month, we give the assembly details and describe a suitable power supply.

08 September 2008

There's an old saying that "one man's trash is another man's treasure". Personally, I think it's all treasure so you can imagine my overwhelming joy when a friend recently found an old valve car radio for me to fix!

05 September 2008

The LM3909 was a legendary IC, which the designers (National Semiconductor) modestly described as a "LED Flasher/Oscillator". Its popularity was surely due both to its great simplicity and versatility. It could flash a LED off a wide range of voltages, at a wide range of frequencies. It could also flash LEDs in parallel, could produce a tone in a loudspeaker, trigger a Triac or pulse an incandescent bulb - among other things. Sadly, though, the LM3909 has been discontinued and is now very difficult to find.

03 September 2008

This ultra-high performance model train controller features infrared remote control. We believe it's the best build-it-yourself train controller ever published!