EE Movies, Part Rants and SPICE.

The Amp Hour · 16 Nov 2010 · 1h 01m · Episode 17

What this episode covers

Dave Jones from EEVblog and Chris Gammell discuss the frustrations of using online component selection tools like WebMentional, which quote high-volume pricing that is inaccessible to prototypers, and the difficulties of sourcing parts directly from manufacturers. They critique the misleading metrics of electronics community platforms like Element14 and Design Spark, arguing that active user counts are vastly inflated compared to actual engagement. The hosts also debate the utility of SPICE simulation for complex analog designs, the historical evolution of capacitor unit notation, and the prevalence of free energy scams.

Other shows on the same ground, closest first.

  • The Spark Gap · 59m

    The Spark Gap - Episode 41

    Chris Gammell, founder of Parts IO and Contextual Electronics, joins hosts Carl and Corey to discuss the complexities of selecting operational amplifiers (op-amps) and the challenges of component sourcing. They analyze specific parts like the AD5339 DAC and MAX7400 filter, highlighting how datasheet marketing often obscures real-world performance issues like offset voltage and noise. Gammell introduces Parts IO, a component search engine designed to aggregate data from multiple distributors and manufacturers to provide risk assessments, pricing trends, and availability metrics that standard distributors like Digi-Key often lack.

  • The Spark Gap · 44m

    The Spark Gap - Episode 10

    Hosts Carl and Corey discuss the 'paralysis of analysis' in embedded electronics, focusing on strategies to navigate component selection hell and avoid design rabbit holes. They advise defining strict parameters before searching distributors like Digi-Key, prioritizing critical specs, and leveraging evaluation boards to test parts like instrumentation amplifiers in real-world conditions rather than relying solely on simulation. The conversation also covers PCB layout pitfalls, such as obsessing over trace aesthetics (OCD layout) and stack-up decisions, urging engineers to prioritize electrical functionality and consult with PCB fabrication houses for impedance and via sizing.

  • Embedded.fm · 55m

    478: The Map Is Not the Territory

    Jan Rychter, founder of PartsBox, explains how a simple desire to track electronic components evolved into a complex software platform for inventory and production control. He discusses the surprising finding that only about 250,000 unique parts are actually used in hobbyist and small-scale commercial builds, despite millions existing. Rychter also critiques the embedded software ecosystem, noting that electrical engineers often write poorly designed software due to a lack of training in software design patterns and abstraction.

  • The Spark Gap · 1h 07m

    The Spark Gap - Episode 42

    Chris Gammell, founder of parts.io, joins hosts Carl and Corey to discuss selecting the right operational amplifier for specific applications, using a 300mV DC signal and a 5nA current measurement as case studies. They also cover practical component choices like the LTC6903 programmable oscillator and the Microchip 24AA02 EEPROM with pre-burned MAC addresses. Gammell outlines parts.io's strategy to democratize access to Field Application Engineer (FAE) support by hiring an 'Internet Applications Engineer' and improving search algorithms to help small-scale designers.

  • The Spark Gap · 1h 32m

    The Spark Gap - Episode 52

    Hosts Carl and Corey discuss the strategic transition from using development kits to custom hardware designs. They analyze the risks of supply chain dependency, the importance of selecting dev kits based on final product requirements rather than convenience, and the software implications of hardware abstraction layers. The conversation also covers practical advice for first-time PCB designers, including managing power supplies and simplifying assembly processes.

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