➡ BSIDE I8305 lab power supply tested
➡ Candlestick with LEDs kit tested
➡ Rotating LED clock kit tested
Complete content of this blog
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The author of this blog
This blog is written by Jos Verstraten, a Belgian/Dutch author. He wrote his first article on electronics, published in the Dutch magazine 'elektuur', at the age of twenty. From that moment on, writing about electronics has dominated his life. ➡ Read this article |
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24M-8CH logic analyser tested
For € 7.80, you can buy an eight-channel logic analyser in China with a maximum sampling rate of 24 MHz and data storage of up to 800 Msamples, more than you ever need. We tested the hardware and software. ➡ Read this article |
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50 MHz frequency counter kit tested
With this € 15.00 kit, you can measure frequencies up to a maximum of 50 MHz with a sensitivity of 75 mVrms. By adding or subtracting an intermediate frequency to the measurement, you can measure the frequency of a received radio station. ➡ Read this article |
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858D hot air station tested
With its temperature range from 100°C to 450°C, you can use the 858D for heat shrink tubing as well as for (dis)soldering SMD parts on your PCBs. We dismantled a specimen and discovered the positive and negative features of this device. ➡ Read this article |
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1502DD lab power supply tested
If you google it, you can buy this power supply for less than twenty-five euros. A nice lab power supply for the novice hobbyist, it seems! We tested whether this device is safe and meets the specifications. ➡ Read this article |
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1999 milli-ohm module tested
You cannot measure very low resistances accurately with your cheap multimeter. With this module which costs about twenty euros, you can do that according to the supplier. We tested whether this module does what it promises. ➡ Read this article |
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33.000 Vdc digital panel meter tested
With this module, which costs less than seven euros, you can measure DC voltages up to 33.000 V, i.e. with a resolution of 1 mV and an accuracy of 0.3 ‰. ➡ Read this article |
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AD584LH voltage reference module tested
A very accurate voltage reference is useful in the lab for checking your measuring equipment. With this PCB that is available for prices starting at € 8.00, however, something strange is going on. The complete PCB is much cheaper than the IC that is on it. We investigated this issue and found a strange thing. ➡ Read this article |
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ADS1013D tablet oscilloscope tested
The ADS1013D is a two-channel tablet oscilloscope with, according to the manufacturer, a bandwidth of 100 MHz, a sampling rate of 1 GSa/s and a price of € 120.00. A great hobby oscilloscope? We tested the specifications and operation. ➡ Read this article |
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AK1616 audio spectrum display tested
For about € 30.00 you can get this nice little gadget, with which you can make the frequency composition of an audio signal visible. You only need to solder the sixteen LED-displays with the necessary care on one of the two PCB's and mount these PCB's on top of each other. ➡ Read this article |
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Aneng 613 multimeter tested
This landscape-readable multimeter also puts the date, day, time, temperature and relative humidity on its display. Handy for the service technician? ➡ Read this article |
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Aneng A3008 pen multimeter tested
For less than 20 euros, you can buy this handy multimeter in the form of a pen, with which you can measure voltages, resistances, capacitances and frequencies with a reading of up to 5999. We put one on our test bench. ➡ Read this article |
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Aneng AN302 autoranging multimeter tested
For just over ten euros you can buy this ultra flat autoranging true RMS multimeter. It can measure just about anything except currents. How good is such a cheap meter? We tested all measurement functions and were quite satisfied. ➡ Read this article |
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Aneng AN870 multimeter tested
With its four and a half decade display, its specified accuracy of ±0.05 % when measuring DC voltage and its price of less than EUR 30, this sturdy multimeter is well worth an extensive test. ➡ Read this article |
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Aneng AN888S desktop multimeter tested
It looks strange, this desktop multimeter with 19999 counts and with a Bluetooth MP3 player, thermometer and clock as extras. Strange combination, but its specifications are excellent and that for a nice price. So this unique device is worth an extensive test. ➡ Read this article |
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Aneng Type 180 multimeter tested
With its price of approximately € 4.50, this digital meter is undoubtedly one of the cheapest multimeters you can buy. The specifications are excellent: an accuracy of 0.8 % for DC voltages. ➡ Read this article |
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Aneng V01A multimeter tested
With a price of about € 12.00, this automatic multimeter seems to be a nice device for the hobbyist. The accuracy is excellent and the device fits comfortably in your hand. A pity is that you can not measure voltages less than 0.8 V and that the input resistance is extremely low. ➡ Read this article |
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Aneng V9 multimeter tested
This fairly new multimeter from China's Aneng is distinguished by a readout of up to 6,000 counts, a minimum voltage range of 60.00 mV and a maximum voltage range of 2,000 V. ➡ Read this article |
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Aneng-683 smart multimeter tested
Aneng's Model 683 belongs to the very latest generation of handheld multimeters that completely resemble a smartphone and are operated in the same way via the touch-screen. ➡ Read this article |
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AS201 benchtop oscilloscope tested
The AS201 from OWON is an odd one out. It is a fairly new digital oscilloscope (2019) disguised as a very simple old-fashioned analogue counterpart and you have to operate it as such. Such a device intrigues us and we requested and received a test sample. ➡ Read this article |
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Assortment of capacitors tested
Already provided with a nice assortment of resistors? Now it's the turn of the capacitors. After all, after the resistors, these are the parts that you use the most in daily practice. Here, too, you can make very economical use of a Chinese assortment. ➡ Read this article |
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Assortment of electrolytic capacitors tested
After resistors and polyester capacitors, electrolytic capacitors are the most frequently used parts in the daily practice of the hobby lab. Fortunately, you can also buy these parts very cheaply from Chinese webshops. We investigated the quality of such an offer. ➡ Read this article |
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Assortment of resistors tested
One of the first things you should buy when setting up your hobby electronics lab are resistors. We ordered a cheap assortment with thousand 0.5 W carbon film resistors in China and evaluated the delivery and quality. ➡ Read this article |
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BK-938 SMD soldering station tested
With the BK-938 you get a cheap second soldering iron for easily solder your SMD components on their copper surfaces. But is this soldering iron worth its twenty euros? ➡ Read this article |
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BSIDE I8305 lab power supply tested
We knew BSIDE only as a manufacturer of multimeters. Until we received a copy of this brand's I8305 power supply with a request to test it thoroughly. We hereby do so. ➡ Read this article |
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BSIDE O1 multimeter and oscilloscope tested
As a multimeter, this meter has a readout of up to 5999 counts and, as an oscilloscope, a (measured) bandwidth of 8 MHz. That in itself is not spectacular, but the price is. The BSIDE O1 costs around 50 euros. ➡ Read this article |
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C002 alarm sound module tested
For less than ten eurocents you can buy this micro module that generates the familiar sound of an alarm siren, the sound you hear when a car alarm or a PIR detector goes off. ➡ Read this article |
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CAI-150 electronic calculator kit tested
This little DIY kit is not only fun to build, but the result is also useful! A small calculator that allows you to do electronics calculations, among other things. An ideal DIY kit for the starter! ➡ Read this article |
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Candlestick with LEDs kit tested
As the dark winter months approach, almost everyone is looking for original ways to add atmosphere for Christmas. Perhaps this fun and affordable DIY kit is just what you need to add something unique to your Christmas decorations. ➡ Read this article |
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Coil gun demo kit tested
Coil guns use magnetic fields to fire projectiles at high speed that penetrate tanks or ship hulls thanks to their enormous kinetic energy. This demo kit allows you to experiment with this technology. ➡ Read this article |
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CTR-30 LED Christmas tree kit tested
For about eight euros, buy this kit of a miniature Christmas tree in which 36 LEDs flash. It is easy to solder and you can power it from a 5 V mains plug power supply. ➡ Read this article |
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D2-1 tracking line car tested
For less than two euros, you can buy this kit of an electric car that follows a black track on a white background. A nice kit to get the youngsters interested in electronics! ➡ Read this article |
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DGE1030 function generator tested
We know OWON as a supplier of excellent oscilloscopes. So we were curious to see how the low-cost function generator DGE1030 from the same brand would pass our tests. Spoiler: with flying colours! ➡ Read this article |
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Digital CMOS clock kit tested
This is a lovely nostalgic kit that wouldn't look out of place in an 'elektor' from the 1980s. However, it is an ideal project to teach people how to solder and introduce them to digital electronics. ➡ Read this article |
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Digital inclinometer tested
With an inclinometer you can measure angles and slopes between a surface and the horizon. Such devices are useful tools for every handyman or renovator. We examined one of the cheapest digital inclinometers you can buy. ➡ Read this article |
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DM8145 desktop multimeter tested
The DM8145, also sold as VC8145, is an inexpensive desktop multimeter with a reading of up to 80,000 counts and a lowest voltage range of 80 mV. The meter has extras usually found only on much more expensive devices. ➡ Read this article |
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DOB-6040A LED-array tested
You connect them directly to the 230 V power line, they give a lot of light, hardly get hot and they are cheap. Use these remarkable LED arrays in inventive light design! ➡ Read this article |
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DP10007 differential probe tested
With a differential probe, you can measure without using the ground as a reference. This is a great safety advantage when measuring in mains powered circuits without a transformer. The DP10007 is the cheapest probe on the market and well worth testing. ➡ Read this article |
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DPS3003 power supply tested
With three modules, which together cost less than € 45.00, you can create a small but very professional laboratory power supply that provides you with a voltage of up to 32.00 Vdc and a current of up to 2.000 A. Of course, the device works as a constant voltage and current source. ➡ Read this article |
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DS212 smartphone oscilloscope tested
This oscilloscope in 'smartphone' design has a bandwidth of 1 MHz and a sampling rate of 10 MSa/s. You will pay around € 90.00 for it. An expensive toy or a useful device? We won't judge, that's for you to decide. ➡ Read this article |
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DS1102E 2 x 100 MHz oscilloscope tested
Rigol's DS1102E, with its bandwidth of 100 MHz, its sampling rate of 1 GSa/s, its two channels, is a typical representative of the modern generation of medium-priced digital oscilloscopes. In this article an overview of what you can expect from this oscilloscope. ➡ Read this article |
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DSN-DVM-368 digital voltmeter tested At various Chinese mail order companies you can order the three-digit digital voltmeter module DSN-DVM-368 for less than three euros. With this module you can measure DC voltages up to 30.0 V. |
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DSO3D12 multifunctional measuring device tested
The DSO3D12 combines a 120/60 MHz oscilloscope, a 5999/9999 count multimeter and a 5/2 MHz function generator. And all for around € 110.00! We investigated whether this device from Zeeweii fulfils these promises. ➡ Read this article |
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DSO112A handheld oscilloscope tested
With its dimensions of 79 by 69 by 18 mm, the DSO112A is probably the smallest oscilloscope you can find. It is powered via USB or via a built-in battery, has an analog bandwidth of 2 MHz and a sensitivity of 2 mV/div. ➡ Read this article |
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DSO138 very cheap oscilloscope tested Without a scope every electronics hobbyist is blind. However, a scope is not exactly cheap. JYE Tech has attempted to design the cheapest scope of all time. For about € 15,00 you can order a kit of the DSO138, a miniature scope with a bandwidth of 200 kHz and a sensitivity of 10 mv/div. ➡ Read this article |
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DSO150 handheld oscilloscope tested With its price of about € 25.00, its bandwidth of 200 kHz, its sensitivity of 5 mV/div and its time base to 10 µs/div, the DSO150 is a nice scope for anyone who starts out with electronics as a hobby. ➡ Read this article |
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DSO188 matchbox oscilloscope tested With its dimensions of 57 mm by 34 mm by 11 mm you can call Daniu's DSO188 a matchbox oscilloscope. If you think this device is nothing more than a funny, but useless toy you are wrong. It allows you to observe signals up to 100 kHz. We tested this miniature wonder of Chinese technology. ➡ Read this article |
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DT71 mini digital tweezers tested
These miniature measuring tweezers from e-Design are offered at a price of around € 60.00. The device looks nice and it has a few unique features, but is it worth the rather high price? We tested a sample in our lab. ➡ Read this article |
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DY-11 touch sensor switch tested
For half a euro you can buy this module that allows you to switch on and off low-power light bulbs with a capacitive touch contact. We investigated how this module works and whether it is reliable. ➡ Read this article |
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E012 quadcopter tested
Does a drone seem nice, but are you hesitant to buy one because you doubt whether you can drive one? Buy an E012, a quadcopter that costs only thirteen euros and that will allow you to investigate whether you can master the art of driving a drone. ➡ Read this article |
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EBD-A20H electronic load tested
With this device from ZKE Tech, you can not only test all kinds of batteries, but also test DC power supplies up to 30 V. You can test the device up to 20 A or up to 200 W, whichever comes first. ➡ Read this article |
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Electronic scale DIY kit tested
For about fifteen euros, this kit allows you to build a scale with ranges of 99.99 grams and 0.999 kg. Some of the components are supplied as SMD, so some experience with soldering such parts is necessary. ➡ Read this article |
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EMECO breakdown voltage meter tested
The well-known cheap Chinese transistor testers can find out many specifications, but not the breakdown voltage of a semiconductor. The available voltage is too low for that. This small device can do that, even up to 2,700 V. ➡ Read this article |
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ET12S multimeter, logger, IR-camera tested
This small measuring instrument from ToolTop is not only a simple multimeter for voltage, resistance and capacitance, but also a logger for the measurement data and an infrared camera for locating 'hot spots' in electronics. ➡ Read this article |
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ET601 Five-channels USB-oscilloscope tested
We have never tested a device where the discrepancy between specifications and actual performance is so great. The ET601 is completely unusable as an oscilloscope, but perhaps applications can be found in the field of teaching. ➡ Read this article |
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ET3320C function generator tested
ET33xxC is the name of a series of function generators with many features from 'East Tester'. The cheapest model, which you pay about € 100.00 for, has a frequency range for sine to 20 MHz and for rectangle and triangle to 15 MHz. ➡ Read this article |
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f-L-C-meter kit tested
Googling for interesting stuff, we found this inexpensive kit of a frequency, capacitance and induction meter for just €15.00 from various AliExpress providers. That obviously deserves a test! ➡ Read this article |
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Fast edge pulse generator tested
If you want to check the bandwidth and rise time of your oscilloscope, you need a very fast pulse. This small inexpensive PCB provides such a pulse with a rise time of just 180 ps. ➡ Read this article |
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FG-050 function generator tested
If you search long enough, you can buy this digital low-frequency function generator module for less than € 12.00. Built in a box you pay € 20.00. Nice prices for a generator that generates all basic signals up to 65.5 kHz. This module is worth an extensive test. ➡ Read this article |
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FG-100 function generator tested
The FG-100 is a small digital function generator for low frequency applications offered for prices around € 30.00. The FG-100 generates sine waves up to 500 kHz and rectangle, triangle and sawtooth waves up to 20 kHz. ➡ Read this article |
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FNIRSI 1014D oscilloscope tested
Priced at about € 140.00, the 1014D from the Chinese company FNIRSI is an easy-to-use entry-level oscilloscope for the hobbyist who does not (yet) want to spend a lot of money on equipment. ➡ Read this article |
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FNIRSI DSO-TC3 multimeter tested
Semiconductor tester, Vdc meter, RLC meter, continuity tester, oscilloscope, function generator, IR decoder, voltage source. With the DSO-TC3 from FNIRSI, you can do anything! But how accurate do all these functions work? We tested it! ➡ Read this article |
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FNIRSI S1 multimeter tested
FNIRSI, known for its tablet oscilloscopes, has now also launched a multimeter, the S1. The device looks like a bulky smartphone and works almost entirely automatically. ➡ Read this article |
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FT-96 LED photo lamp tested
If you are involved in table-top or macro photography, you know how important good light is. It used to cost a lot of money and electricity, but now you buy three cheap LED photo lamps with even cheaper small tripods. We looked at the TF-96 LED photo lamp from Ulanzi. ➡ Read this article |
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FY3200S function generator tested
The FY3200S from Feeltech delivers signals up to 24 MHz on two fully independent adjustable outputs. Besides the standard signals, this generator also delivers sweeps, electrocardiogram pulses, white noise, AM and FM. The built-in frequency/pulse counter can be used up to 100 MHz. ➡ Read this article |
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G600 LCD microscope tested
When we were looking for a digital microscope for our lab we found the G600 from Mustool. A nice device with an excellent price/performance ratio. ➡ Read this article |
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G1200(D) digital microscope tested
With its very large screen of 15.4 cm by 8.8 cm, its resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels and its tilting column, this digital microscope is ideal for soldering and inspecting SMD components. ➡ Read this article |
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GD-SC02 pan and tilt WiFi camera tested
With the GD-SC02 you get a security camera for less than twenty euros. You can integrate the camera into your wireless WiFi network or connect it to your wired Ethernet. With the 'Guudgo' app, you can rotate the camera in any direction, view the HD images directly or save them in the cloud. ➡ Read this article |
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Geekcreit FM Radio Kit tested
On several Chinese sites a kit of an FM radio with alarm clock is offered for a price of only € 8.50. We tinkered the device together and found it, as claimed, anything but suitable for an absolute beginner. ➡ Read this article |
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Geekcreit LM317 power supply tested
A kit of a power supply that generates a stabilised voltage of 1.5 V to 12 V for less than nine euros? Search in Google for '220V DIY LM317' and you will see dozens of offers from the well-known Chinese online stores. We ordered from the cheapest supplier Banggood and tested this kit. Verdict: don't buy! ➡ Read this article |
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GLPS1502C power supply tested
The GLPS1502C is one of the cheapest linear power supply you can buy. With its voltage up to 15 V and current up to 2 A, this power supply is an excellent entry-level model for the hobbyist. Whoever claims that Chinese people cannot make excellent cheap products should read this test! ➡ Read this article |
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GY20451 ultrasonic levitator tested
With this very simple circuit you can demonstrate and experiment with the principle of levitation by means of ultrasonic standing waves of 40 kHz. ➡ Read this article |
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HC-SR04 ultrasonic module tested
With the HC-SR04 module, you can measure distances of up to 4.5 metres at a very low cost. The module is prepared for working with well-known microcomputer platforms such as the Arduino. ➡ Read this article |
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HC-SR501 motion sensor tested
For just over € 1.50 you buy this motion sensor. You can detect every movement within a radius of up to seven meters. When motion is detected, the output becomes 'H', that allows you to control a lamp or alarm in a very simple way. ➡ Read this article |
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Hesai 30 V ~ 3 A power supply kit tested
For less than five euros, you can buy the complete electronics kit for an adjustable stabilised power supply up to 30 V and 3 A. With a transformer, a heatsink and two meters as extras, you can build a complete lab power supply at low cost. ➡ Read this article |
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Hiland 28 V ~ 2 A power supply kit tested
For about € 25.00 you buy the control electronics for a self-constructed linear, but digitally adjustable power supply. However, you do need to buy a few extras. ➡ Read this article |
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Hiland M8 component tester kit tested
On the PCB is stated 'transistor tester', but that does this kit of about € 15.00 great injustice. With the M8 you can test almost all your components: resistors, potentiometers, capacitors, coils, diodes, LEDs, thyristors, triacs, transistors, FETs and MOSFETs. It can also be used to generate and measure frequencies. ➡ Read this article |
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Hiland multiple output power module tested
With this € 6.09 priced kit, you can convert one supply voltage into stabilized supply voltages of +3.3 V, +5 V, -5 V, +12 V and -12 V. You can load each output individually up to 300 mA. We built and tested one kit. ➡ Read this article |
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HT118E, 19999 multimeter tested
A few months ago we received a multimeter from the brand Kaiweets, unknown to us. Did we feel like testing it? We did and here are the results of this test: the HT118E is an excellent multimeter! ➡ Read this article |
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HV-1 High Voltage Lighter Kit tested
You can use it to set paper and matches on fire, to ignite fireworks, fire rockets, shooting carbide (Dutch tradition!) and explode hydrogen gas balloons. And it costs less than three euros! ➡ Read this article |
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HW-637 step up boost converter tested
With this small PCB you can convert a DC voltage of at a least 3.0 V to a DC voltage up to 40.0 V, according to the specifications. The maximum output current varies from 2 A at 35 V to 1 A at 5 V on the output. ➡ Read this article |
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ICL8038 function generator kit tested
Besides the XR2206, the ICL8038 is the second famous IC by which you can quickly design an LF function generator. We tested one of the Chinese kits that is offered for about ten euros. Our opinion: not so good, around an ICL8038 you can design a better function generator yourself! ➡ Read this article |
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Infrared alarm kit tested
With this cheap kit you can build a simple PIR alarm to secure your doors, carport and garden. If someone moves within the range of the device, an audible alarm will sound for ten seconds. ➡ Read this article |
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J2354 120 W rheostat tested
A rheostat is a high power wirewound sliding potentiometer that is very handy in the hobby lab. You can control the speed of motors, measure the stabilization of a power supply or load a power amplifier variably. One of the cheapest range of rheostats is the J2354 series. ➡ Read this article |
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JDT2410 PWM power supply tested
For about € 7.00 you buy this small power supply. The output voltage is adjustable between 9 Vdc and 24 Vdc at a maximum current of 1 A. Ideal for feeding small circuits, DC motors and fans. ➡ Read this article |
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King-Serry 433 MHz wireless remote switch tested
Another 433 MHz wireless switch? Yes, but one with special features. The outdoor range is said to be more than 500 meters and the transmitter is said to be extremely economical. True or false? We investigated. ➡ Read this article |
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KSGER T12/STM32 soldering station tested
This soldering station works with Hakko's well-known T12 soldering tips and an SM32 microcontroller that controls the temperature of the soldering tip with a PID algorithm. ➡ Read this article |
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KTNNKG wireless switch set tested
If you are satisfied with a very basic operation, this set offers the cheapest solution for wireless control of three loads up to 2 kW. For about € 15,00 you get one battery-powered wall-mounted transmitter and three mains-powered receivers with relay switches. ➡ Read this article |
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Laser harp DIY kit tested
We had never heard of the word 'laser harp' until, in search of interesting kits to review on this blog, we came across one on AliExpress. We built one and the report of our tinkering can be read in this article. ➡ Read this article |
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LC100A LC meter tested
For those who only occasionally need to measure a capacitor or a coil, this LC measuring module costing only € 12.85 seems like a bargain. However, our test shows that this little meter is completely unusable. ➡ Read this article |
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LDTR-WG0222 induction heating tested
With this low-cost circuit you can experiment with the great power of inductive heating. In less than ten seconds you can heat a massive M8 bolt up to 100 °C. You can also experiment with wireless power transfer (WPT). ➡ Read this article |
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Linsley-Hood 1969 amplifier tested
A famous transistor amplifier, designed in 1969, is back on the market and offered as a cheap kit in China. We bought one, built it and performed some tests. ➡ Read this article |
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LM1036N preamplifier tested
This cheap building kit is a nice entry-level project for people who want to start with electronics as a hobby. For example, you can use it between your turntable and your power amplifier to quickly adjust bass, treble, balance and volume manually. ➡ Read this article |
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LW-322D digital mV and dB meter tested
If you need to measure very small audio signals, your digital multimeter is of little use. The sensitivity is too low and the bandwidth is not sufficient. Fortunately, there is the LW-322D, a digital mVac meter that also measures dB. ➡ Read this article |
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Maglev demo kit 300g tested
Maglev stands for 'magnetic levitation', the use of magnetic fields to make metal objects float. With this kit, you can demonstrate this principle and gain experience with it. However, we were unable to get this kit to work! ➡ Read this article |
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Marx generator kit tested
This is an article for the fanatical spark enthusiasts among our readers! With the described kit of a ten-stage Marx generator, you can generate sparks up to 15 cm without any effort. ➡ Read this article |
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MAX038 function generator kit tested
Via AliExpress and eBay you can buy a function generator kit with the MAX038 chip for about € 18.00. The frequency range goes up to 20 MHz, at least according to the vendors. This of course requires an extensive test! ➡ Read this article |
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Mayitr Power Regulator tested
The unique feature of this 230 V and 4,0 kW power regulator is that you can set the conductivity percentage of the triac on a separate panel with two push buttons between 0 % and 100 %, with an accuracy of up to 1 %. ➡ Read this article |
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MC14433 digital voltmeter kit tested
For less than five euros, you can buy this kit of a digital voltmeter with a range of 1.999 V. Unfortunately, there are quite a few drawbacks to this kit, so we cannot recommend it. ➡ Read this article |
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MDP-P905 digital power supply tested
The MDP-P905 is the strangest power supply we've ever seen. The dimensions are very small, the design is unique and the output voltage can be higher than the input voltage. You can even remotely control this power supply via a second device. ➡ Read this article |
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MDS120M oscilloscope tested
This miniature oscilloscope has a bandwidth of 120 MHz, a time base of up to 6 ns/div and a sensitivity of 50 mV/div. You will pay around €60 for it. A toy or a useful tool? We investigated. ➡ Read this article |
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MDS8207 multimeter/oscilloscope tested
This handheld multimeter and oscilloscope from Mustool with a measuring range of up to 6,000 counts, an analogue bandwidth of 40 MHz and a price of less than 100.00 euros could well define a new standard for this type of portable meter. ➡ Read this article |
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Measuring leads from China tested
For a one meter long test lead from China you pay € 1.40, while the same kind of cables from brands such as Hirschmann and Voltcraft are much more expensive. Are those cheap Chinese leads so much worse in quality? We investigated. ➡ Read this article |
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Metal detector kit tested
It seems so attractive! A kit that costs only four euros and allows you to detect metal objects in your walls. After all, for a Brennenstuhl metal detector you need to pay an approximate twenty euros. But does this Chinese device do what the maker promises? ➡ Read this article |
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MK-168 transistor tester tested
The ability of a microcontroller to identify components was demonstrated by Markus Frejek on mikrocontroller.net in 2009. The MK-168 is one of the many Chinese devices that use this basic scheme. It is ready-to-use, battery-powered and built into a handy housing. ➡ Read this article |
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Multi-function digital clock kit tested
This kit contains a clock with date, day and alarm functions. All SMD components are already mounted on the two PCBs. The construction of this device is therefore possible without any problems even for people with little soldering experience. ➡ Read this article |
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Mustool MT77 multimeter tested
With its smartphone look and large screen, it looks very fashionable. The specifications and price are also attractive. So buy it? What a disappointment when it turns out that the specifications aren't right and you've bought a pig in a poke. ➡ Read this article |
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Mustool MT92 multimeter tested
This hand-held multimeter is also known as Bside ADM92 and measures AC/DC voltages, AC/DC currents, resistances, capacitors, temperatures and frequencies with a readout of up to 6,000 or 9,999 counts. The cheapest supplier we could find offers this meter for only € 12.50. ➡ Read this article |
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NPS-1601 power supply tested
The Chinese company Gophert offers a lab power supply NPS-1601 with a voltage range of 0 Vdc to 32 Vdc and a maximum output current of 5 A. You get this device for less than fifty euros, so an extensive review/test is certainly in its place. ➡ Read this article |
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OSC482X USB oscilloscope tested
For about 100 euros you get a two channel USB oscilloscope with a bandwidth of 20 MHz and a sampling rate of 50 Msa/s, a datalogger, a function generator and a four channel logic analyzer. A set that is more than worth a comprehensive review. ➡ Read this article |
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OSC482X oscilloscope add-ons tested
The LOTO Instruments USB oscilloscope OSC482X discussed elsewhere on this blog has a DE-15 connector to which you can connect a number of useful add-ons. In this article we give you a short overview and test of these add-ons. ➡ Read this article |
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Poor man's power supply tested
We searched for the cheapest adjustable power supply and found two modules for € 35.00 on AliExpress, with which you can build a power supply up to 22 V and 3 A. We tested whether you get something useful or just 'Chinese junk' for that little bit of money. ➡ Read this article |
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PS-1501A linear power supply tested
Looking for a cheap power supply we ended up with the PS-1501A, a power supply that is offered for prices from € 30.00 and that supplies 0 Vdc to 15 Vdc at 1 A. The specifications are very good! But are these correct? Unfortunately, what a disappointment! ➡ Read this article |
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QS-1224CBD DC/DC-converter tested
With this small and very cheap module you can convert a DC voltage between 10 V and 32 V into a HIGHER DC voltage between 12 V and 35 V with a maximum output current of 6 A. ➡ Read this article |
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RC-5 temperature logger tested
The RC-5 is a temperature logger with NTC sensor. It measures from -30 °C to +70 °C with a resolution of 0.1 °C and an accuracy of ±0.5 °C. The internal memory can store 32,000 readings. You can buy an RC-5 for about thirteen euros. ➡ Read this article |
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RCL101D desktop LCR-Bridge tested
The RCL101D is yet another Chinese LCR meter that works on the principle of the AC powered Kelvin bridge. However, it has a few special features, such as a sturdy housing, battery power and a special probe. ➡ Read this article |
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RD6006 power supply tested
For about € 125.00 you can build this laboratory power supply with an output voltage of 0 to 60 V and an output current of up to 6 A. We built a sample and subjected it to a thorough test. ➡ Read this article |
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RDA5807 digital FM radio kit tested
Now that the Dutch public broadcast corporation NPO has decided to continue broadcasting radio via the analogue FM network until 2030, buying a kit that can receive those analogue FM stations is not a waste of money. We built one and you can read our comments here. ➡ Read this article |
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Resistor decade board tested
Indispensable in every electronics lab when experimenting: the ability to quickly change the value of a resistor in a circuit. This small PCB, which costs only € 2.50, makes this possible in an ideal way. But how accurate is the selected resistance? ➡ Read this article |
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Resistor decade box tested
How can a Chinese manufacturer offer a five-decade resistor box for about € 10.00? We bought two, dismantled them and discovered the secret of this low price (and quality). ➡ Read this article |
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Rotating LED clock kit tested
This € 7.23 kit gives you a PCB that alternately shows the time and temperature on seven-segment displays and the seconds on sixty rotating LEDs. ➡ Read this article |
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Ruideng 33V-3A panel meter tested
For just US$3.99 you can buy this digital panel meter, with which you can measure both the output voltage and the output current of a DC voltage source. We tested the meter and were very satisfied with the accuracy. ➡ Read this article |
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S-150-12 power supply tested
This power supply costs about € 13.00 and provides a maximum current of 12.5 A at 12 Vdc output voltage. Ideal for feeding LED light strips en 12 V LED lamps. We tested the specifications of this power supply. ➡ Read this article |
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Science Action Lab Kit tested
With this kit you can give your (grand)children something different than more of the same. Perhaps this experiment kit will be the start of an exciting hobby or technical career! ➡ Read this article |
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SGP1010S function generator tested
This module, which costs about € 60, is a versatile function generator with a frequency range up to 10 MHz and an output voltage up to 10 Vpeak-to-peak. The generator is powered from a DC voltage of 9 V to 36 V. ➡ Read this article |
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SMD-5050 RGB LED strip tested
LED light strips are an inexpensive alternative to the old light garlands with small bulbs. We were looking for the cheapest way to turn your home or shop window into a colourful spectacle with LED light strips. ➡ Read this article |
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Sonoff S20 WiFi Socket tested
With Sonoff's S20 WiFi Socket, you can turn any device in your home into an 'internet of things' device that you can turn on and off with your smartphone. This is not unique, but the price is. For less than ten euros you can order this WiFi socket on various Chinese sites. ➡ Read this article |
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Sonoff WiFi Smart Switch tested
With this barely € 4.50 costing device you can switch on and off any mains operated device with a power of up to 2.3 kW via the internet. Thanks to the new 'Enable LAN' option, you can use the system also only with your WiFi network, without having to use the cloud. ➡ Read this article |
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SPS-E305 power supply tested
This lab power supply from Nice-Power is one of the smallest and cheapest lab power supplies we can find. The device supplies 30 V at 5 A. We are testing whether this device is a usable alternative to the much more expensive counterparts. ➡ Read this article |
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SPS-H305 laboratory power supply tested
While surfing the Internet, we came across this laboratory power supply from the brand GVDA, which was completely unknown to us. The price is good, the device looks nice and the specifications are great. So we ordered one and in this article you will discover the results of our test. ➡ Read this article |
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ST11F02 ultrasonic distance meter kit tested
For less than € 4.50 you can buy this little kit of a distance meter that, according to the manufacturer, digitally measures distances from 25 cm to 400 cm. We built and tested one. ➡ Read this article |
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T100 differential amplifier tested
Sund's T100 is the cheapest differential amplifier you can find. Unfortunately, there are some snags with this little device, which is why we cannot recommend the purchase. ➡ Read this article |
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TC1 multi-function tester tested
Daniu's TC1 differs from the numerous low-cost microcontroller controlled component testers by its Li-ion battery, the possibility of testing zener diodes up to 30 V and the recognition of infrared codes. We tested the specifications and found a few very large measurement errors. ➡ Read this article |
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TEMPer2 USB temperature logger tested
With a price of less than twenty euros, the TEMPer2 is one of the cheapest temperature loggers you can buy. A unique feature is that you can log without installing additional software. You can read the measurements directly into a text file. ➡ Read this article |
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Tesla Coil 10 tested
With this high-voltage generator according to the Tesla principle, you can create sparks of up to ten centimetres in length and you can 'play' a certain type of music via bluetooth. ➡ Read this article |
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Tesla generator kit tested
Tesla generators has been appealing to hobbyists for decades. Construction kits of Tesla generators are for sale for ten to hundreds of euros. We tested one of the cheapest kits. For just over ten euros you can buy this mini Tesla generator as a kit. ➡ Read this article |
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TFC-1000L frequency meter tested
The TFC-1000L from Long Wei is an affordable frequency and period meter for the hobbyist at a price of about a hundred euros. So a test of this device should not be missing from this blog. ➡ Read this article |
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TJ-56-632 FM-radio kit tested
This inexpensive kit of an FM radio is a nice little kit to familiarize youngsters with playing with electronics. However, it does require soldering to SMD components! ➡ Read this article |
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TM-902C thermocouple meter tested
A long range thermometer is a useful tool in the electronics lab. It allows you to check the temperature of components and heatsinks. But you don't use such an instrument that often, so it shouldn't be too expensive. ➡ Read this article |
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TPS305 power supply tested
Googling around, we discovered the TPS305, a seemingly nice lab power supply from the Chinese brand WANPTEK, unknown to us. We ordered a test sample from Banggood and you can read the results of our tests in this article. ➡ Read this article |
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TS80P smart soldering iron tested
The Chinese company e-Design is known for the beautiful, reliable, innovative but expensive products they develop and sell under the name Miniware. This 12 V mini soldering iron is a typical example. ➡ Read this article |
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TTP223 capacitive touch switch tested
A number of extremely cheap modules have been developed around the TTP223 chip with which you can replace mechanical push buttons and on/off switches. We tested one of them. ➡ Read this article |
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TW-01 countdown timer tested
For a lot of timer applications, you don't need an accurate digital timer, but just an electromechanical model. With the TW-01 from Chinese Kerde, you can set a time between one minute and thirty minutes and you can switch 230 V and 10 A. ➡ Read this article |
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UA6013L capacitance meter tested
Although you can measure capacitors with most modern multimeters, capacitance meters are still offered. So there is a market for them. We tested one of the cheapest types, the UA6013L from Uyigao. ➡ Read this article |
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Ultrasonic distance measurement kit tested
Based on the ultrasonic module HC-SR04 discussed elsewhere on this blog, a very cheap ultrasonic distance meter is offered as a kit with a range of 5.00 cm to 400 cm. We ordered this kit and tested its performance. ➡ Read this article |
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USB Boost Cable tested
With this small power booster you can derive a supply voltage of 12 Vdc from a cheap 5 V power bank. According to the manufacturer, the device can supply 1 A and that for a price of just under three euros. ➡ Read this article |
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UT320A thermocouple meter tested
A thermocouple thermometer is a useful tool for every hobby lab. You can use it to measure the temperature of all components. We bought and examined the UT320A from UNI-T with a range of -40 °C to +260 °C. ➡ Read this article |
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UTG9005C-II function generator tested
With its price of € 99.17 ex VAT (September 2020), the UTG9005C-II is the cheapest table-top function generator from the Chinese Uni-Trend Technology (UNI-T). It produces output signals up to 5 MHz with a resolution of 14 bit and a sampling rate of 125 MSa/s. ➡ Read this article |
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V68 and C68 panelmeters tested
With these two digital panelmeters you can measure alternating voltages (600 V) and currents (10 A). The devices are powered from the 230 V mains voltage, completely isolated from the measuring circuit. This seems ideal, but unfortunately these meters do not meet the specifications. ➡ Read this article |
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VoltOTG Android voltage logger tested
With this approximately € 15.00 costing device you can turn your Android smartphone or tablet into a voltmeter and logger. Although the idea behind the device is of course great, unfortunately there are some things to be said about the hardware and software. ➡ Read this article |
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W1209 temperature controller tested
The W1209 is a thermostat that closes or opens a relay contact when the temperature exceeds a trigger temperature. By means of three push buttons you can program seven parameters. ➡ Read this article |
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WHTCA01 ultrasonic vaporiser tested
You may have one in your home, such an 'ultrasonic vaporiser'. Thanks to a super cheap Chinese PCB, we now know that there are very few electronics in such devices. The starting point for a fun little hobby project? ➡ Read this article |
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Winbang remote control tester tested
This inexpensive device allows you to test the function of wireless remote controls operating at frequencies between 250 MHz and 450 MHz. The tester digitally measures the frequency of the carrier wave with a resolution of 100 kHz. ➡ Read this article |
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XDM1041 benchtop multimeter tested
This small benchtop multimeter with mains power supply from OWON has a resolution of up to 55,000 digits and for DC voltage an accuracy of 0.05 %. It is offered at a price of approximately € 140.00. We ordered a specimen and carried out an extensive test. ➡ Read this article |
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XH-M229 ATX breakout board tested
Don't just dump your old desktop PC on the scrapyard! Probably there's an excellent functioning ATX power supply in it, which you can use in your hobby lab with this small breakout print. ➡ Read this article |
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XJW01 auto LCR-bridge tested
With this meter you can measure almost any specification of resistors, capacitors and inductors. The XJW01 works with an AC voltage applied to the component, the best method for measuring passive components. ➡ Read this article |
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XR2206 function generator kit tested
This function generator kit with an XR2206 is offered for about € 7.00. You will receive a kit of a function generator in a perspex housing with three potentiometers and two jumpers for setting the frequency and waveform. The frequency range goes from 1 Hz to 1 MHz. ➡ Read this article |
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XY-FZ35 electronic load tested
With this approximately € 18.00 costing module you can make an electronic load (current sink) with which you can test power supplies and batteries up to 5 A current or up to 35 W power. ➡ Read this article |
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Yihua 938D SMD soldering tweezers reviewed
Ever tried to desolder a SMD resistor with your regular soldering iron? Not easy! With this special soldering tweezers from Yihua, which cost about € 45.00, this job becomes a piece of cake. And it's just as easy to solder that resistor back to your PCB. ➡ Read this article |
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YR2050 milli-ohm meter tested
This inexpensive Chinese device measures very low resistances, for example the ON resistance of MOSFETs, with an accuracy of ±0.1 %. Unfortunately, the user interface is terrible and only available in Chinese.... ➡ Read this article |
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YS-5V1ASZD 5 Vdc power supply tested
Nowadays it makes no sense to design small 5 V power supplies yourself. For no more than € 2.25 you buy a YS-5V1ASZD that supplies 5 Vdc voltage with a maximum current of 1 A. In this article we give a convincing test of this small powerful device. ➡ Read this article |
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YSJ-120S chipcorder module tested
With this module, you can record a message by pressing one button and then play it back on a speaker connected to the module by pressing a second button. ➡ Read this article |
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ZD-99 soldering station tested
If you are going to solder daily, don't read this article but buy a Weller soldering station of more than a hundred euro immediately. However, if you only solder occasionally, then this ZD-99, Chinese clone of the Weller WLC100, might be something for you. ➡ Read this article |
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ZPB30A electronic load tested
The ZPD30A is an electronic load for testing your power supplies, batteries and accumulators in a fast and inexpensive way. Thanks to the microcontroller control, this device also measures the total capacity and the total delivered energy of a battery or accumulator. ➡ Read this article |
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ZS-X4B PWM power regulator tested
With this PCB, which costs you about € 3.50, you can control the power to DC loads between zero and full load. The maximum voltage is 35 V, the maximum power 90 W. ➡ Read this article |
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ZT-702S multimeter and oscilloscope tested The ZT-702S from ZOYI is a combination of a 10 MHz digital oscilloscope and a multimeter with a reading of up to 9999 counts. The device can be purchased for a price of about € 65.00. ➡ Read this article |