19 May 2008

Need to operate a CD, DVD or MP3 player from the cigarette lighter socket in your car? Or perhaps run a digital still or video camera or some powered speakers from the power supply inside your PC? This Low-Voltage Adjustable Regulator will step the voltage down to what's needed. It has jumper shunts to select one of six common output voltages (from 3-15V) and depending on the input voltage and the heatsink(s) you use, it can deliver an output current of just over 4A.

19 May 2008

Since our debunking of the "Electricity saving box" in the November 2007 issue, another device along the same lines has appeared in Harvey Norman stores. Called the "Enersonic Power Saver" it claims potential power savings of up to 24%. At $59.00, it is considerably more expensive than the previous device but just like that one, it won't save you a cent on your electricity bills.

19 May 2008

This low-cost unit can program all dsPIC30F series microcontrollers in the DIP package, along with most PIC microcontrollers. It's easy to build and uses standard parts.

19 May 2008

Here's a handy piece of test gear you can build for yourself - a Digital LC Meter for measuring inductance and capacitance over a wide range. It's based on an ingenious measurement technique, delivers surprising accuracy and is easy to build.

19 May 2008

If the CDI module in your motorbike, outboard, ride-on mower or other small petrol motor fails, you could be in for a shock. Depending on the brand or model, they can cost up to $400. You can build this one for less than $50 and it will do the same job for most engines.

08 May 2008

The first all-electric production road vehicle available in Australia

01 April 2008

And you always thought that the Farad was a ridiculously large unit... Start thinking in KILOFarads!

01 April 2008

Last month, we described the circuit and software features of our new High-Current DC Motor Speed Controller. This month, we show you how to build and test it.

01 April 2008

Last month, we introduced the topic of Digital TV and strongly advocated the purchase of a High-Definition Set-Top Box or Personal Video Recorder. In this second part, we discuss the antenna installation and what you need to do to ensure the most reliable and interference-free reception.

01 April 2008

Upgrade your standard 12V lead-acid battery charger or solar cell booster to a complete 2 or 3-step charger using this Charge Controller. It includes temperature compensation and LED indication. All parameters are adjustable for charging lead-acid or Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries.