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This is a combination digital clock timer and solar panel charge controller used to maintain a deep cycle battery from a solar panel. The timer output is used to control a 12 volt load for a 32 minute time interval each day.... [read more]

48 V ‘phantom’ powering has become the standard for professional condenser microphones. The supply (or rather bias) voltage is applied over both wires of the balanced screened cable via two 6k8 resistors (see reference [1]) – the absolute value is not critical, since a variation of ±20% is permitted, but they must be matched to an accuracy of 0.4% or better [2]. Many microphones are fitted with an output transformer, and derive their power from a center-tap on the secondary.... [read more]

This little circuit can be used to dim lights up to about 350 watts. It uses a simple, standard TRIAC circuit that, in my expirience, generates very little heat. Please note that this circuit cannot be used with fluorescent lights.... [read more]

Tube Power amp. Dynaco ST-70... [read more]

We've called it the Itsy Bitsy USB Lamp. It is such a delightfully simple idea we're wondering why no-one ever thought of it before. It started life (and continues) as a student project at Massey University in Wellington, New Zealand - and in fact was submitted to us by the lecturer, Stan Swan. When we say simple, we mean it: just a USB plug on a suitable length of cable, a super bright white LED and a series resistor to limit LED current. The LED and resistor are housed in an in-line fuse holder (without its innards!) which makes a superb little "wand" and also protects the electronics, such as they are.... [read more]

These two headlight reminder circuits are easy to install and operate on the KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) principle. The simple circuit involves adding just a 12V piezo buzzer between the lights circuit and a door switch. The buzzer sounds if the lights are left on and you open a door. The disadvantage of this simple circuit is that it's annoying to have the buzzer sound continuously if you want to leave the door open while the lights are on. The improved circuit overcomes that problem by adding a 1000µF capacitor and a parallel 100kO resistor in series with the buzzer. Now, when a door is opened, the buzzer gives a brief burst of sound only, while the 1000µF capacitor charges. The 100kO resistor discharges the capacitor when the lights are switched off.... [read more]