How to Design Different Types of PCBs
Different types of PCBs carry a diverse range of design rules, layout schemes, and sets of components. New designers may not realize that there are generally different types of PCBs, but the same overall process is used to create a PCB layout and other CAD documents in ECAD software. If you’re a new designer and […]
How to Test Electronic Components for Quality and Functionality
There comes a point in every designer’s career where they receive a batch of assembled boards and none of them seem to work. What happens next is a long series of troubleshooting steps to try and locate the source of the problem. It’s natural to suspect that a faulty component is to blame, but this […]
Discover Millions of Verified, Pre-Built Vishay Components
Ultra Librarian is proud to announce a partnership with Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. to provide millions of free symbols, footprints, and 3D models for download. Easily review parametrics, datasheets, and availability of Vishay components right in Ultra Librarian. Symbols, footprints, and 3D models can all be downloaded in over 30 different CAD formats including […]
Standard PCB Reference Designators to Know
PCB reference designators One of the often underutilized tools in a PCB designer’s toolbox is the silkscreen. This top layer of the PCB layout is where component footprints are placed, and is critical for accurate component placement during PCB assembly. However, this is not the only function of the silkscreen. Another important usage is for […]
Comparing the CP2102 vs. CP2104: Highly-Integrated USB-to-UART Bridge Controllers
The QFN package for the CP2102 and CP2104 USB-to-UART bridge controllers. Image from Silicon Laboratories Electronic components that enable interconnection and/or communication between different circuit boards and electronic systems are often referred to as bridges. These devices are essential for telecommunications and other operations, as it is common that connected or networked systems that employ […]
PCB Layout Best Practices to Know
Designing circuit boards has to be one of the most exciting careers that anyone could embark on.
The NTC0805J10K: A Negative Temperature Coefficient Chip Thermistor
An NTC thermistor is one example of an on-board sensor that doesn’t require complex supporting circuitry for precise measurements. One popular thermistor is the NTC0805J10K, a surface-mount chip component in 0805 packaging that can be reliably used from below-freezing to above-boiling temperatures.
The Importance of Testing Electronic Components
When you buy a new electronic product, you might not realize it has been subjected to a battery of tests, from the component level to the finished assembly. Some finished units may have been taken off the line and subjected to rigorous inspection to ensure quality control.
Preventative Motor Maintenance With the STDES-FANPRE01 Reference Design
Reference designs are useful when starting a new product design, but many reference designs can overlap with each other.
The LPC1769 Datasheet: 32-Bit M3 Microcontrollers for Embedded Applications
Build out your embedded ecosystem with LPC1769 MCUs from NXP Each major component maker has produced its own family of microcontrollers for embedded systems, each with its own unique feature set and value proposition. The LPC1769 MCU from NXP Semiconductors is part of a family of products for embedded systems. The LPC1769 MCU offers competitive […]