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Contents Vol.39, No.02 February 2026 16 The History of Intel, Part 1 Intel currently makes more desktop, laptop & server CPU chips than any other company. How did Intel get into that position, what did they invent along the way, what challenges did they overcome and what about their future? By Dr David Maddison, VK3DSM Electronics feature 35 Power Electronics, Part 4 The History of Intel Part 1: page 16 Image source: Konstantin Lanzet – https://w.wiki/GVqx In this series of articles, we explore the principles of power electronics. This month, we look in detail at the deceptively simple rectifier type AC-DC converters. By Andrew Levido Electronic design Page 28 Mains Power LED Indicator 70 How to Design PCBs, Part 3 For the final article in the series, we cover advanced techniques and options that you might need to use when designing your own PCBs. We also look into what is required to get an entire PCB assembled. By Tim Blythman Making your own PCBs DCC Remote Controller 80 Tiny QR Code Reader As suggested by the name, this is a tiny module that uses a small camera to decode QR codes. The hardware is based on the same RP2040 processor from a Raspberry Pi Pico. By Tim Blythman Low-cost electronic modules 28 Mains LED Indicator LEDs are much better, and brighter, than neon lamps but need extra circuitry to run from the 230V mains. Our simple circuit lets you operate LEDs from the mains, and it’s not kept floating at a high or dangerous voltage. By John Clarke Lighting project 44 The Internet Radio, Part 1 If you’re looking for a music/streaming audio player or you have poor radio reception in your area, then this project is for you. It’s based on a Raspberry Pi 4B and can play from local files or internet streaming services. By Phil Prosser Radio/audio project 53 Mains Hum Notch Filter This Notch Filter reduces mains hum due to long unbalanced audio signal leads and nearby power wiring. It handles stereo signals and is powered by a separate 9-15V DC plugpack. By John Clarke Audio project 62 DCC Remote Controller Using this DCC Remote Controller, you can control multiple trains at the same time. Any type of DCC packet can be sent via the Controller, and you can even connect up to five of them to a single Base Station. Part 4 by Tim Blythman Model train project Page 62 2 Editorial Viewpoint 4 Mailbag 52 Subscriptions 84 Circuit Notebook 86 Serviceman’s Log 92 Online Shop 95 Vintage Radio 101 Ask Silicon Chip 103 Market Centre 104 Advertising Index 104 Notes & Errata 1. Wireless reed switch 2. Raspberry Pi reflash helper The Columbia TR-1000 portable radio by Ian Batty