Silicon ChipMarket Centre - July 2021 SILICON CHIP
  1. Outer Front Cover
  2. Contents
  3. Publisher's Letter: Software: too many bugs, too many updates
  4. Feature: The 2020 mission to Mars by Dr David Maddison
  5. Project: 20A DC Motor Speed Controller by John Clarke
  6. Feature: How USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) works by Andrew Levido
  7. Feature: El Cheapo Modules: USB-PD chargers by Jim Rowe
  8. Project: Model Railway Level Crossing by Les Kerr
  9. Project: Silicon Labs-based FM/AM/SW Digital Radio by Charles Kosina
  10. Review: Tecsun PL-990 radio receiver by Ross Tester
  11. Project: Advanced GPS Computer – Part 2 by Tim Blythman
  12. Serviceman's Log: I’ve repaired planes before, but never tanks by Dave Thompson
  13. Vintage Radio: The Rowe AMI JAL-200 jukebox by Jim Greig
  14. PartShop
  15. Product Showcase
  16. Market Centre
  17. Advertising Index
  18. Notes & Errata: Advanced GPS Computer, June 2021; Mini Arcade Pong, June 2021; Refined Full-Wave Motor Speed Controller, April 2021; USB Flexitimer, June 2018
  19. Outer Back Cover

This is only a preview of the July 2021 issue of Silicon Chip.

You can view 41 of the 112 pages in the full issue, including the advertisments.

For full access, purchase the issue for $10.00 or subscribe for access to the latest issues.

Items relevant to "20A DC Motor Speed Controller":
  • 20A DC Motor Speed Controller PCB [11006211] (AUD $7.50)
  • PIC16F1459-I/P programmed for the 20A DC Motor Speed Controller [1100621A.HEX] (Programmed Microcontroller, AUD $10.00)
  • Firmware and source code for the 20A DC Motor Speed Controller [1100621A] (Software, Free)
  • 20A DC Motor Speed Controller PCB pattern (PDF download) [11006211] (Free)
Articles in this series:
  • The History of USB (June 2021)
  • The History of USB (June 2021)
  • How USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) works (July 2021)
  • How USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) works (July 2021)
Articles in this series:
  • El Cheapo Modules From Asia - Part 1 (October 2016)
  • El Cheapo Modules From Asia - Part 1 (October 2016)
  • El Cheapo Modules From Asia - Part 2 (December 2016)
  • El Cheapo Modules From Asia - Part 2 (December 2016)
  • El Cheapo Modules From Asia - Part 3 (January 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules From Asia - Part 3 (January 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules from Asia - Part 4 (February 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules from Asia - Part 4 (February 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules, Part 5: LCD module with I²C (March 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules, Part 5: LCD module with I²C (March 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules, Part 6: Direct Digital Synthesiser (April 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules, Part 6: Direct Digital Synthesiser (April 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules, Part 7: LED Matrix displays (June 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules, Part 7: LED Matrix displays (June 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules: Li-ion & LiPo Chargers (August 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules: Li-ion & LiPo Chargers (August 2017)
  • El Cheapo modules Part 9: AD9850 DDS module (September 2017)
  • El Cheapo modules Part 9: AD9850 DDS module (September 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules Part 10: GPS receivers (October 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules Part 10: GPS receivers (October 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules 11: Pressure/Temperature Sensors (December 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules 11: Pressure/Temperature Sensors (December 2017)
  • El Cheapo Modules 12: 2.4GHz Wireless Data Modules (January 2018)
  • El Cheapo Modules 12: 2.4GHz Wireless Data Modules (January 2018)
  • El Cheapo Modules 13: sensing motion and moisture (February 2018)
  • El Cheapo Modules 13: sensing motion and moisture (February 2018)
  • El Cheapo Modules 14: Logarithmic RF Detector (March 2018)
  • El Cheapo Modules 14: Logarithmic RF Detector (March 2018)
  • El Cheapo Modules 16: 35-4400MHz frequency generator (May 2018)
  • El Cheapo Modules 16: 35-4400MHz frequency generator (May 2018)
  • El Cheapo Modules 17: 4GHz digital attenuator (June 2018)
  • El Cheapo Modules 17: 4GHz digital attenuator (June 2018)
  • El Cheapo: 500MHz frequency counter and preamp (July 2018)
  • El Cheapo: 500MHz frequency counter and preamp (July 2018)
  • El Cheapo modules Part 19 – Arduino NFC Shield (September 2018)
  • El Cheapo modules Part 19 – Arduino NFC Shield (September 2018)
  • El cheapo modules, part 20: two tiny compass modules (November 2018)
  • El cheapo modules, part 20: two tiny compass modules (November 2018)
  • El cheapo modules, part 21: stamp-sized audio player (December 2018)
  • El cheapo modules, part 21: stamp-sized audio player (December 2018)
  • El Cheapo Modules 22: Stepper Motor Drivers (February 2019)
  • El Cheapo Modules 22: Stepper Motor Drivers (February 2019)
  • El Cheapo Modules 23: Galvanic Skin Response (March 2019)
  • El Cheapo Modules 23: Galvanic Skin Response (March 2019)
  • El Cheapo Modules: Class D amplifier modules (May 2019)
  • El Cheapo Modules: Class D amplifier modules (May 2019)
  • El Cheapo Modules: Long Range (LoRa) Transceivers (June 2019)
  • El Cheapo Modules: Long Range (LoRa) Transceivers (June 2019)
  • El Cheapo Modules: AD584 Precision Voltage References (July 2019)
  • El Cheapo Modules: AD584 Precision Voltage References (July 2019)
  • Three I-O Expanders to give you more control! (November 2019)
  • Three I-O Expanders to give you more control! (November 2019)
  • El Cheapo modules: “Intelligent” 8x8 RGB LED Matrix (January 2020)
  • El Cheapo modules: “Intelligent” 8x8 RGB LED Matrix (January 2020)
  • El Cheapo modules: 8-channel USB Logic Analyser (February 2020)
  • El Cheapo modules: 8-channel USB Logic Analyser (February 2020)
  • New w-i-d-e-b-a-n-d RTL-SDR modules (May 2020)
  • New w-i-d-e-b-a-n-d RTL-SDR modules (May 2020)
  • New w-i-d-e-b-a-n-d RTL-SDR modules, Part 2 (June 2020)
  • New w-i-d-e-b-a-n-d RTL-SDR modules, Part 2 (June 2020)
  • El Cheapo Modules: Mini Digital Volt/Amp Panel Meters (December 2020)
  • El Cheapo Modules: Mini Digital Volt/Amp Panel Meters (December 2020)
  • El Cheapo Modules: Mini Digital AC Panel Meters (January 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: Mini Digital AC Panel Meters (January 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: LCR-T4 Digital Multi-Tester (February 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: LCR-T4 Digital Multi-Tester (February 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: USB-PD chargers (July 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: USB-PD chargers (July 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: USB-PD Triggers (August 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: USB-PD Triggers (August 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: 3.8GHz Digital Attenuator (October 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: 3.8GHz Digital Attenuator (October 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: 6GHz Digital Attenuator (November 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: 6GHz Digital Attenuator (November 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: 35MHz-4.4GHz Signal Generator (December 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: 35MHz-4.4GHz Signal Generator (December 2021)
  • El Cheapo Modules: LTDZ Spectrum Analyser (January 2022)
  • El Cheapo Modules: LTDZ Spectrum Analyser (January 2022)
  • Low-noise HF-UHF Amplifiers (February 2022)
  • Low-noise HF-UHF Amplifiers (February 2022)
  • A Gesture Recognition Module (March 2022)
  • A Gesture Recognition Module (March 2022)
  • Air Quality Sensors (May 2022)
  • Air Quality Sensors (May 2022)
  • MOS Air Quality Sensors (June 2022)
  • MOS Air Quality Sensors (June 2022)
  • PAS CO2 Air Quality Sensor (July 2022)
  • PAS CO2 Air Quality Sensor (July 2022)
  • Particulate Matter (PM) Sensors (November 2022)
  • Particulate Matter (PM) Sensors (November 2022)
  • Heart Rate Sensor Module (February 2023)
  • Heart Rate Sensor Module (February 2023)
  • UVM-30A UV Light Sensor (May 2023)
  • UVM-30A UV Light Sensor (May 2023)
  • VL6180X Rangefinding Module (July 2023)
  • VL6180X Rangefinding Module (July 2023)
  • pH Meter Module (September 2023)
  • pH Meter Module (September 2023)
  • 1.3in Monochrome OLED Display (October 2023)
  • 1.3in Monochrome OLED Display (October 2023)
  • 16-bit precision 4-input ADC (November 2023)
  • 16-bit precision 4-input ADC (November 2023)
  • 1-24V USB Power Supply (October 2024)
  • 1-24V USB Power Supply (October 2024)
  • 14-segment, 4-digit LED Display Modules (November 2024)
  • 0.91-inch OLED Screen (November 2024)
  • 0.91-inch OLED Screen (November 2024)
  • 14-segment, 4-digit LED Display Modules (November 2024)
  • The Quason VL6180X laser rangefinder module (January 2025)
  • TCS230 Colour Sensor (January 2025)
  • The Quason VL6180X laser rangefinder module (January 2025)
  • TCS230 Colour Sensor (January 2025)
  • Using Electronic Modules: 1-24V Adjustable USB Power Supply (February 2025)
  • Using Electronic Modules: 1-24V Adjustable USB Power Supply (February 2025)
Items relevant to "Model Railway Level Crossing":
  • Model Railway Level Crossing PCB [09108211] (AUD $5.00)
  • Pair of PIC12F617-I/P chips for the Model Railway Level Crossing [0910821A/B/C.HEX] (Programmed Microcontroller, AUD $15.00)
  • ISD1820-based voice recording and playback module (Component, AUD $7.50)
  • Firmware, source code and sound recording for the Model Railway Level Crossing [0910211A-C] (Software, Free)
  • Model Railway Level Crossing PCB pattern (PDF download) [09108211] (Free)
  • Mechanical diagrams and label artwork for the Railway Level Crossing (PDF Download) (Panel Artwork, Free)
Items relevant to "Silicon Labs-based FM/AM/SW Digital Radio":
  • SiLabs FM/AM/SW Digital Radio PCB [CSE210301C] (AUD $7.50)
  • ATmega328P programmed with the firmware for the SiLabs FM/AM/SW Digital Radio [CSE210301.HEX] (Programmed Microcontroller, AUD $10.00)
  • Pulse-type rotary encoder with pushbutton and 18t spline shaft (Component, AUD $3.00)
  • Si4732-A10 AM/FM/SW/LW/RDS Radio Receiver IC (Component, AUD $20.00)
  • Firmware and source code for the SiLabe FM-AM-SW Digital Radio [CSE210301.HEX] (Software, Free)
  • SiLabs FM/AM/SW Digital Radio PCB pattern (PDF download) [CSE210301C] (Free)
  • Drilling/cutting diagrams and front panel artwork for the SiLabs-based FM-AM-SW Digital Radio (Free)
Items relevant to "Advanced GPS Computer – Part 2":
  • Advanced GPS Computer PCB [05102211] (AUD $7.50)
  • PIC32MX170F256B-50I/SP programmed for the Advanced GPS Computer [0510221A.hex] (Programmed Microcontroller, AUD $15.00)
  • DS3231 real-time clock IC (SOIC-16) (Component, AUD $7.50)
  • VK2828U7G5LF TTL GPS/GLONASS/GALILEO module with antenna and cable (Component, AUD $25.00)
  • MCP4251-502E/P dual 5kΩ digital potentiometer (Component, AUD $3.00)
  • Micromite LCD BackPack V3 complete kit (Component, AUD $75.00)
  • Matte/Gloss Black UB3 Lid for Advanced GPS Computer (BackPack V3) or Pico BackPack (PCB, AUD $5.00)
  • Firmware for the Advanced GPS Computer [0510221A.HEX] (Software, Free)
  • Advanced GPS Computer PCB pattern (PDF download) [05102211] (Free)
  • Advanced GPS Computer box cutting diagram and lid dimensions (Panel Artwork, Free)
Articles in this series:
  • Advanced GPS Computer - Part 1 (June 2021)
  • Advanced GPS Computer - Part 1 (June 2021)
  • Advanced GPS Computer – Part 2 (July 2021)
  • Advanced GPS Computer – Part 2 (July 2021)

Purchase a printed copy of this issue for $10.00.

MARKET CENTRE Advertise your product or services here in Silicon Chip FOR SALE FOR SALE KIT ASSEMBLY & REPAIR LEDsales VINTAGE RADIO REPAIRS: electrical mechanical fitter with 36 years ex­ perience and extensive knowledge of valve and transistor radios. Professional and reliable repairs. All workmanship guaranteed. $17 inspection fee plus charges for parts and labour as required. Labour fees $38 p/h. Pensioner discounts available on application. Contact Alan, VK2FALW on 0425 122 415 or email bigalradioshack<at>gmail. com LEDs and accessories for the DIY enthusiast PMD WAY offers (almost) everything for the electronics enthusiast – with full warranty, technical support and free delivery worldwide. Visit pmdway.com to get started. SILICON CHIP ASSORTED BOOKS FOR $5 EACH Selling assorted books on electronics and other related subjects – condition varies. Some of the books may have already been sold, but most are still available. Bulk discount available; post or pickup. All books can be viewed at: siliconchip.com.au/link/aawx Email for a postage quote, quote the number directly below the photo when referring to a book: silicon<at>siliconchip.com.au LEDs, BRAND NAME AND GENERIC LEDs. Heatsinks, LED drivers, power supplies, LED ribbon, kits, components, hardware – www.ledsales.com.au TRONIXLABS PTY LTD would like to thank all of our customers for their support and feedback. For any enquiries or customer technical support, please email support<at>tronixlabs.com PCB PRODUCTION PCB MANUFACTURE: single to multi­ layer. Bare board tested. One-offs to any quantity. 48 hour service. Artwork design. Excellent prices. Check out our specials: www.ldelectronics.com.au DAVE THOMPSON (the Serviceman from S ilicon C hip ) is available to help you with kit assembly, project troubleshooting, general electronics and custom design work. No job too small. Based in Christchurch, NZ but service available Australia/NZ wide. Email dave<at>davethompson.co.nz KEITH RIPPON KIT ASSEMBLY & REPAIR: * Australia & New Zealand; * Small production runs. Phone Keith: 0409 662 794 keith.rippon<at>gmail.com ADVERTISING IN MARKET CENTRE Classified Ad Rates: $32.00 for up to 20 words (punctuation not charged) plus $1.20 for each additional word. Display ads in Market Centre (minimum 2cm deep, maximum 10cm deep): $82.50 per column centimetre per insertion. All prices include GST. Closing date: 5 weeks prior to month of sale. To book, email the text to silicon<at>siliconchip.com.au and include your name, address & credit card details, or phone Glyn (02) 9939 3295 or 0431 792 293. WARNING! Silicon Chip magazine regularly describes projects which employ a mains power supply or produce high voltage. All such projects should be considered dangerous or even lethal if not used safely. Readers are warned that high voltage wiring should be carried out according to the instructions in the articles. When working on these projects use extreme care to ensure that you do not accidentally come into contact with mains AC voltages or high voltage DC. If you are not confident about working with projects employing mains voltages or other high voltages, you are advised not to attempt work on them. Silicon Chip Publications Pty Ltd disclaims any liability for damages should anyone be killed or injured while working on a project or circuit described in any issue of Silicon Chip magazine. Devices or circuits described in Silicon Chip may be covered by patents. Silicon Chip disclaims any liability for the infringement of such patents by the manufacturing or selling of any such equipment. Silicon Chip also disclaims any liability for projects which are used in such a way as to infringe relevant government regulations and by-laws. Advertisers are warned that they are responsible for the content of all advertisements and that they must conform to the Competition & Consumer Act 2010 or as subsequently amended and to any governmental regulations which are applicable. siliconchip.com.au Australia’s electronics magazine July 2021  111