Fullscreen HTML5Med Res (??MB)HTML4

Contents Vol.39, No.09 September 2026 12 Improvised Electronics, Part 1 Hobbyists can fabricate valves, transistors and even simple integrated circuits in their own home. So let’s take a look at how people can make basic electronic parts and even advanced electronic components. By Dr David Maddison, VK3DSM DIY components 48 How Induction Motors Work Improvised Electronics Part 1: Page 12 Commodore PET Page 58 Induction motors are used to power many devices such as lathes, fans, pool pumps and more. In this short article we describe how they work and what differences exist between the various subtypes. By Andrew Levido Electric motors 58 The Commodore PET Display It is very difficult to troubleshoot these types of older computers due to the number of logic ICs involved. To make things easier, this article will explore how the Commodore PET’s video hardware works in detail. By Dr Hugo Holden Vintage computers 90 Braybon Bros Voltage Regulator This automatic voltage regulator from the 1940s was used to control alternators to produce a mostly constant AC output voltage. With some original parts on hand, I decided to make a replica. By Fred Lever Vintage electronics 28 Semiconductor Analyser This analyser automatically identifies most two- or three-terminal discrete semiconductor devices (diodes, bipolar transistors, JFETs, Mosfets, IGBTs and thyristors). It automatically measures and displays critical parameters. By Andrew Levido Test & measurement project 52 Stereo FM Transmitter With frequency, gain and output power controls, this low-power, digitallycontrolled FM transmitter is a compact and inexpensive device. It can be powered by one to three AA or rechargeable cells. By Charles Kosina, VK3BAR Radio transmitter project 70 Phenomenal Pinball Machine The Display System Battery BackPack for GPS Clocks and more Page 78 2 Editorial Viewpoint 4 Mailbag 45 Circuit Notebook 83 Subscriptions 84 Serviceman’s Log 1. Remote control tester 2. Bluetooth selfie camera 3. Magnetic power switch This series explains how to design and build every part of your own Pinball Machine. This month we cover building and testing the flippers, bumpers, kickers, ball return mechanism and associated parts. Part 4 by Phil Prosser Gaming project 98 Online Shop 100 Ask Silicon Chip 78 Battery BackPack for GPS Clocks 101 Silicon Chip Kits 103 Market Centre 104 Advertising Index 104 Notes & Errata While you might think this project can only be used for clocks, by providing a regulated output from a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, it can be used whenever you need an uninterrupted low-voltage power source. By Tim Blythman Battery project