1 Jun, 2010

Not all faults in equipment are hardware or software based but are instead due to carbon-based failures or CBFs, as in carbon-based life forms. Unfortunately, CBFs can really waste your time.

3 Jun, 2010

Most readers would be aware that UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) are used extensively for surveillance and for bombing missions in Afghanistan and Pakistan. But did you know that UAVs are being made in Australia? Not only that but they are being sold around the world for a range of applications. The manufacturer is Silvertone, a company with decades of experience and run by Bob Young.

5 Jun, 2010

This two-channel, 100MHz Digital Storage Oscilloscope takes up to 500 million samples per second, has comprehensive USB connectivity and a wide range of features in a stylish, compact package

7 Jun, 2010

Got a technical problem? Can’t understand a piece of jargon or some technical principle? Drop us a line and we'll answer your question. Write to: Ask Silicon Chip, PO Box 139, Collaroy Beach, NSW 2097 or send an email to silicon@siliconchip.com.au

9 Jun, 2010

This Air Quality Monitor indicates carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) levels on a dual bargraph and sounds an alarm when either level reaches a preset concentration. You should use it if you have an unflued heater in your home, boat, caravan or any indoor space.

11 Jun, 2010

Letters and emails should contain complete name, address and daytime phone number. Letters to the Editor are submitted on the condition that Silicon Chip Publications Pty Ltd may edit and has the right to reproduce in electronic form and communicate these letters. This also applies to submissions to "Ask SILICON CHIP" and "Circuit Notebook".

13 Jun, 2010

This linear bench supply can deliver up to 1.6A from positive and negative outputs with a range of ±0-19V. It has adjustable current limiting for both outputs and can display the voltage or current reading for either rail. If powered from an AC plugpack, no mains wiring is required, although less current is available. It also has a 5V 750mA output for powering digital logic ICs and microcontrollers.

15 Jun, 2010

In Pt.1, we looked at the origins of automatic gain control (AGC) systems and described some of the techniques that have been used over the years. This month, we look at simple, delayed, quiet and amplified AGC systems and describe some common faults in these circuits.

17 Jun, 2010

While there has been a lot of publicity around the latest introduction of 3D movies and the accompanying 3D screens and glasses, 3D movie production is very expensive. In fact, it comes as a surprise to most people to find that the blockbuster “Alice in Wonderland” was actually shot in conventional 2D and labouriously converted to 3D later! Now there is a new Australia camera rig, the SpeedWedge, which promises to streamline the whole process.

19 Jun, 2010

Interesting circuit ideas which we have checked but not built and tested. Contributions from readers are welcome and will be paid for at standard rates.

21 Jun, 2010

Think all your double-insulated power tools are safe, just because they are double insulated? As many have found to their ultimate cost, wear and tear on tools can mean that they become decidedly unsafe. Here's a meter that will give you back your peace-of-mind – on tools and many other electrical and electronic devices.

23 Jun, 2010

Last month we described the operation of our new off-grid lighting system, featuring free power courtesy of the sun! Now we move on to the fun part: building it!