MEP EP#276: Skippy Documentation

Circuit Break - A MacroFab Podcast

MEP EP#276: Skippy Documentation

• Fake LM338 Voltage Regulators?
  
  • X-RAY results
  • Should we Xray legit LM137 and see if the XRAY matches?
• SCPI or Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments
  • IEEE 488.2-1987
  • Send command strings over serial to configure and get results from test equipment
  • Test equipment mostly adhere to this with some weird gotchas
• COM port snooper / sniffer?
  • Is there good software out there that can sniff the buffers / communication string between Windows and a hardware device?
• Is bad documentation worse than no documentation?
  • “With no documentation you know immediately you're fucked.”
• Bringing back the Tasty Chips segment - E-Z Hook Insulation Piercing Wire Clamp - 8507
  • Spring loaded clamp that has teeth
  • When you insert a wire the teeth slice into the insulation making contact
  • Datasheet specifications are interesting to say the least!
  • Max Current 1 AMP
  • Max Voltage 0 V ?!?
• Covering the Amplifier
  • Update on Parker’s Amp “refinishing” project
• Adventures in plastic molding
  • Getting custom actuator parts injection molded
  • First prototype parts got shot this week
  • What to expect
    • Provide model to company
    • Initial review
    • DFM report
    • Release for prototype
      • 5 to 6 weeks for the initial mold to be cut
      • Prototype units are shot and sent for approval
      • Second round of mold adjustments are cut - 2 weeks
      • Second prototype units are shot and sent for approval
      • Mold is sent to US
      • Production is run
    • Mold cost ~12k
      • Half up front
      • Remainder at time of delivery
      • Includes all DFM and both prototypes
  • Previous solution was about $35/unit
    • New solution with dome snap switches and injection molded plastic is about $23 to $27/unit