The hottest Electronics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

Why does the frequency response of my DAC droop?

filterwizard • 19 implied HN points • 31 Aug 24
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. A DAC's output might not represent the input signal accurately because it holds samples longer than expected. This can result in a drooping frequency response instead of a flat line.
  2. The output is shaped by a sinc function, where certain frequencies lose energy and create unwanted noise, making the signal less clear.
  3. Modern DACs, like sigma-delta types, don't have this droop problem. They use faster processes and digital filtering to provide a smoother, more accurate sound.

Goodbye, real electronic lab kits?

lcamtuf’s thing • 4285 implied HN points • 02 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Traditional electronic lab kits are disappearing, replaced by newer products like Snap Circuits
  2. The older kits offered a hands-on, educational experience with detailed schematics and components
  3. Newer products like Snap Circuits focus more on quick gratification than teaching electronics concepts

How Sony Mastered the Transistor

The Asianometry Newsletter • 1607 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Sony started from nothing after World War II, but two determined founders, Akio Morita and Masaru Ibuka, worked together to create innovative products like radios using new technology.
  2. They took a big risk by licensing transistor technology from Western Electric, believing it could change the way they made electronics, especially portable radios.
  3. Through trial and error, they learned how to produce reliable transistors and eventually created one of the first successful transistor radios, leading to the company's iconic brand name, Sony.

Advanced sun reproduction

Metabolic Repair • 19 implied HN points • 26 Aug 24
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. To make your indoor lighting like the sun, consider using bicolor lights that can change color temperature throughout the day. This can help your space feel more natural, but they can be more expensive and may not be as bright as daylight lights.
  2. Using an LCD HDR monitor can enhance your viewing experience, allowing for brighter images and better color matching with outdoor light. This can be especially useful if your current monitor seems washed out with your new lighting setup.
  3. If you want your lights to match outdoor brightness, consider measuring the light levels in your space with a lux meter. You may need to upgrade to higher wattage lights or adjust your room's surfaces to increase reflected light.

Oops I Did It Again

atomic14 • 346 implied HN points • 02 Aug 25
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. A new PCB was made, but it had a mistake where the LED didn't work because of wrong connections. The designer mixed up common cathode and common anode.
  2. Fixing the issue isn't too hard. It just requires desoldering the LED, adding solder resist, and reconnecting everything correctly.
  3. After making the adjustments, the LED finally worked, showing a successful blink. It took some effort and frustration to get there.
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World’s Smallest USB-C Li-Ion Charger?!

atomic14 • 346 implied HN points • 16 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. The new USB-C Li-Ion charger is incredibly small, measuring just 10mm by 6mm. It's perfect for anyone needing a compact charging solution.
  2. This charger uses standard components like the LP4054 chip, allowing it to efficiently charge batteries at about 600mA, although it can get quite warm during use.
  3. Recreating the charger's board design is straightforward, making it accessible for hobbyists and those interested in electronics to try their hand at building one.

Resistors are out to get ya

lcamtuf’s thing • 2652 implied HN points • 28 Nov 23
🔬 Science Electronics
  1. Some components in electronics, like resistors, may not behave exactly as expected especially at high frequencies.
  2. Parasitic impedance and capacitance in resistors can affect circuit performance, especially in applications like feedback loops for operational amplifiers.
  3. Using a two-stage amplifier can help mitigate issues caused by resistor parasitics and ensure better signal integrity.

DACs and ADCs, or there and back again

lcamtuf’s thing • 1836 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Digital circuits often require digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital converters to interface with the physical world.
  2. For digital-to-analog conversion, architectures like binary-weighted DACs and R-2R DACs are commonly used, but the latter addresses practical issues with resistor values.
  3. Analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) can be complex, involving methods like flash ADCs and slope-based ADCs, which use principles like comparison, integration, and sigma-delta modulation for accurate voltage readings.

That's a wrap!

atomic14 • 692 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. The speaker has had a busy year filled with exciting projects, including working on small tech boards and experimenting with new materials.
  2. They recently launched the ESP32 Rainbow project, which is fully funded and aimed to be a product soon, with interesting development challenges along the way.
  3. The speaker thanks their supporters, including Patreons, and looks forward to sharing more content and projects in the new year.

Energy in electronic circuits

lcamtuf’s thing • 2244 implied HN points • 16 Oct 23
🔬 Science Electronics
  1. Designing electronic circuits has become more stringent over the years due to advancements in technology.
  2. Understanding how energy travels through electronic circuits is crucial for circuit stability and efficiency.
  3. High-speed signals in electronic circuits can lead to significant energy expenditure and signal integrity issues.

Electronic Chopsticks!

atomic14 • 519 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. The HT140 Solder Tweezers are versatile and can be powered by both a DC jack and USB-C, making them convenient to use. They heat up quickly, which is great for soldering and desoldering tasks.
  2. The tweezers come with useful accessories like a flexible USB cable, a 65W power supply, and a stand, ensuring everything is organized and easy to set up.
  3. They work well for both small and larger components, but using flux can help improve heat transfer. It's a handy tool for electronics projects, especially if you need to fix or modify boards.

Creative Computing Magazine Interviews Clive Sinclair (1980)

Computer Ads from the Past • 640 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Clive Sinclair started his electronics career in 1962 and created several groundbreaking products, including the first mass pocket calculator and the ZX-80 computer.
  2. The ZX-80 was designed to help people learn about computers at a low cost, and it was expandable with additional features like a more professional version of Basic programming.
  3. Sinclair's company aimed to lead in technology with innovations like flat screen TVs and portable systems, focusing on making their products reliable and affordable.

Building a decent microphone amplifier

lcamtuf’s thing • 2856 implied HN points • 30 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Building a good far-field microphone kit requires attention to microphone sensitivity and selecting a suitable op-amp.
  2. Creating a basic but effective circuit architecture for a microphone amplifier involves understanding current-to-voltage conversion and noise reduction techniques.
  3. To avoid issues like over-amplification and background noise, solutions such as manual gain control and automatic gain control (AGC) can be implemented in microphone amplifier circuits.

Designing your own PCBs

lcamtuf’s thing • 2652 implied HN points • 09 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Designing your own PCB allows for faster iteration on new designs compared to ordering custom circuit boards.
  2. KiCad is a recommended tool for designing hobby PCBs due to its extensive library of footprints and open-source nature.
  3. Consider important factors like component placement, trace widths, and manufacturing constraints for successful PCB layout.

MCU land, part 9: ST7789, the final frontier

lcamtuf’s thing • 1836 implied HN points • 09 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Driving a 2.8" 240x320 IPS panel with a Microchip SAM S70 Cortex-M7 MCU can be surprisingly simple.
  2. The steps to set up the ST7789 display controller involve minimal and straightforward commands like hardware reset and configuration for color mode.
  3. Generating image data for the display in 16 bpp RGB565 color mode is achievable through tools like ImageMagick.

Impedance, part 2: why do LCR meters exist?

lcamtuf’s thing • 1224 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🔬 Science Electronics
  1. Impedance can be divided into resistance, capacitive reactance, and inductive reactance.
  2. Digital multimeters measure resistors, capacitors, and inductors by applying different methods.
  3. LCR meters, despite their limited features, provide valuable insights into impedance through scalar impedance and phase offset measurements.

More fun and games with high voltage...

atomic14 • 173 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. High voltage projects can be tricky but also fun. You can get some wild voltages and sparks, which makes experimenting exciting.
  2. Sometimes, your equipment might not work as expected. Issues like voltage ripple can affect how things like LEDs operate.
  3. Finding the right tools is important. Some boards are better for driving specific loads, like nixie tubes, and can work smoothly with other components.

How Far Can Moore's Law Go?

Tapa’s Substack • 79 implied HN points • 07 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Moore's Law shows that the number of transistors on chips grows, but the real limit to performance is how efficiently we can use power. Even if we add more transistors, we might not get better performance without better power management.
  2. We need to consider the costs of power and cooling when designing chips, not just the cost of the hardware itself. Cooling efforts can be more complex and expensive as we push for higher performance.
  3. New technologies and materials like photonics, 3D chip designs, and even concepts like spintronics might help enhance computing performance, especially for memory-related tasks, but there are many challenges to overcome.

Where Was RDNA4 at AMD’s Keynote?

More Than Moore • 326 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. AMD didn't announce RDNA4 at the CES keynote because they felt a short presentation wouldn't do it justice. They want to provide detailed information rather than leave people with questions.
  2. AMD plans to share more about RDNA4 through partners at CES, but a dedicated event will follow for an in-depth reveal. They are close to launch but wanted to wait for the right time.
  3. The naming scheme for new graphics cards will be clearer to help users make better comparisons. AMD aims to improve performance in key gaming areas and ensure good value for consumers.

Space Advantages for Electronics Production: Microgravity & Extreme Temperatures & Vacuum

Space Ambition • 179 implied HN points • 18 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Space offers unique conditions like microgravity and extreme temperatures that can help create better electronic materials. This can lead to higher purity materials and improved processes that are hard to achieve on Earth.
  2. The cost of launching materials into space has decreased significantly, making space manufacturing more accessible. New startups are emerging to support in-space production, which enhances the potential for innovations in microelectronics.
  3. To truly benefit from manufacturing in space, the economics need to prove that it's cheaper than Earth-based production. First, companies will focus on small-scale projects that can show clear advantages before scaling up.

Maxell's MF 2-DD Floppies

Computer Ads from the Past • 256 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Maxell started in 1960 as a battery company and later became well-known for making storage devices like audio cassette tapes.
  2. The MF 2-DD floppies from Maxell were a product in their lineup, showcasing the evolution of computer storage over the years.
  3. Maxell has a rich history of innovation, being the first to produce certain types of batteries and tapes in Japan.

Mixed News on iPhone 15 Models

CIRP - Apple Report • 78 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. First full quarter results for iPhone 15 models showed decent sales shares compared to iPhone 14 models in the previous quarter.
  2. iPhone 15 Pro Max was the leading model, accounting for 26% of all iPhone sales in the quarter.
  3. Base and Plus models of iPhone 15 had differences in sales performance compared to the Pro and Pro Max models.

Custom KiCad Silk Screen

atomic14 • 173 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. You can easily add custom designs to the silk screen of your PCB in KiCad. It’s a simple process to import images, opening up creative possibilities for your designs.
  2. Remember that KiCad only supports black and white for silk screen designs, so any colors or shades will need to be converted. This can affect how your graphics look when you import them.
  3. To get the best results, it's helpful to turn off anti-aliasing in your graphics software. This way, what you see is what you get in KiCad, making it easier to control the final look.

MakerNews - December 2025 Update

Maker News • 7 implied HN points • 31 Dec 25
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. The maker community stayed curious and playful through 2025, prioritizing exploration, learning, and hands-on experimentation even when projects got messy.
  2. Practical, clever hacks and tools stood out — from ESP32 USB JTAG debugging and Raspberry Pi test benches to multicolor 3D printer mods, tiny spectrum analyzers, DIY chips, and firmware hacks.
  3. The year closed with community momentum and useful opportunities, like discounted CE certification for open-source hardware, encouraging makers to keep building into 2026.

Signal Integrity fundamentals

Only Wonder Knows • 117 implied HN points • 09 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. High speed digital design is not black magic, but engineering magic.
  2. In high speed designs, the generator sees only the cable, not the load, to determine current.
  3. Proper termination with load impedance equal to cable characteristic impedance prevents signal reflection.

Old School Tape Loading

atomic14 • 173 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Old school tape loading is a nostalgic experience for those who grew up using classic computers like the ZX Spectrum. It brings back memories of how we waited for games to load, often with characteristic sounds.
  2. Using modern technology, like the ESP32, makes it possible to load audio data directly instead of using tapes. This method is faster and more reliable, ensuring a better experience than the original tape loading.
  3. To protect newer devices from the risks of playing audio signals, a simple circuit can be set up. This prevents damage from high voltages while allowing the audio to be used effectively.

Discwasher SpikeMaster

Computer Ads from the Past • 128 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. The Discwasher SpikeMaster was designed to protect computers from electrical surges. It featured multiple outlets and surge protection to keep devices safe.
  2. Discwasher was a well-known company for computer and audio accessories, but it dissolved in 1983. Despite this, its products continued to be mentioned in various publications years later.
  3. The SpikeMaster was marketed for its ability to filter interference and manage power safely. It made it easier for users to power multiple devices without the worry of damaging surges.

HyperX Topology for Photonic Wafer Scale Integration

Tapa’s Substack • 59 implied HN points • 17 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Using the HyperX topology can be a good choice for connecting photonic wafer-scale systems, helping to improve efficiency and lower costs. It focuses on making connections quicker and cheaper in long-distance scenarios on wafers.
  2. Photonic wafer-scale integration offers benefits like reduced energy use and lower latency compared to traditional electrical methods, but the right network setup has been a challenge. Finding a suitable layout is important for maximizing performance.
  3. The HyperX design has advantages like fewer layers and a straightforward layout, which can help minimize complications in building these systems. It's a simple yet effective way to boost the performance of interconnects in photonic setups.

Validating PCAs (1)

Only Wonder Knows • 78 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Validating designed electronics is as important as designing them.
  2. The U-test model involves generating controlled stimulus and checking responses to ensure proper functioning of circuits.
  3. Different types of tests like design, manufacturing, integration, and regression tests play a crucial role in validation processes.

Oscilloscope measurements

Only Wonder Knows • 78 implied HN points • 14 Jul 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Oscilloscopes have been crucial tools in electronics for a long time, helping engineers understand and test signal changes.
  2. Digital oscilloscopes offer advanced features like horizontal position adjustment, holdoff function, and memory segmentation for better measurement control.
  3. Trigger modes on oscilloscopes, like 'auto' and 'normal,' serve different purposes in displaying and analyzing traces.

CATL

Tech Buzz China Insider • 79 implied HN points • 13 May 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. CATL's Qilin batteries are positioned for high-end vehicles and currently target about 15% of the domestic EV market due to their high cost and superior range.
  2. CATL's Qilin battery faces competition from Tesla's 4680 battery, which is still working through production issues affecting its yield rate.
  3. By 2025, the battery industry landscape is expected to greatly favor incumbent manufacturers with CATL's capacity projected to exceed 700 GWh, and laminated products anticipated to increase to over 60% of the market.

The State of Photonic Computing<2025>

State of the Future • 57 implied HN points • 16 Apr 25
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Light is much faster than electricity and creates less heat, which is great for computers. However, using light instead of electricity in all parts of computers is really hard to do.
  2. One big challenge is that we don't have good ways to store information using only light yet. Current storage methods wear out too quickly, making them less reliable.
  3. Companies are focusing more on using light for connecting computers instead of for thinking tasks. This shift allows them to sell products now while working on more complex uses in the future.

California Legislature Passes Electronics Right To Repair

Fight to Repair • 59 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. California Legislature passed a Right to Repair Act, a big win for consumers, small repair shops, and the environment, following years of lobbying resistance from tech firms.
  2. Designer Ollee Means breathes new life into old chairs by restoring and revitalizing them, highlighting the importance of repair and sustainability in modern design.
  3. Google agrees to 10 years of Chromebook support and sustainability measures like adaptive charging, saving costs, reducing waste, and promoting longer-lasting devices.

Lab notebooks

Only Wonder Knows • 58 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Recording funny things in lab notebooks can save time and provide valuable insights for future work.
  2. Using a notebook for design work, organizing content, and including references can help centralize information.
  3. Taking oscilloscope captures, naming signals, and recording measurement values are important steps for effective debugging.

Easy Robotics with a 3D Printer and Raspberry Pi

Messy Progress • 59 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Making a robot with a 3D printer and a Raspberry Pi is fun and can be done on a budget. You can create many different designs without limits.
  2. A modular design is helpful because it allows for easy changes and quick fixes. This makes it easier for kids to participate and experiment.
  3. Using a Raspberry Pi for controlling your robot opens up many possibilities, like adding cameras or other fun components. You can even use simple coding to operate it.

Fuses

Only Wonder Knows • 39 implied HN points • 17 Nov 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Fuses are essential components for providing protection in electronic circuits by blowing up when the current exceeds a certain threshold.
  2. Fuses have specific ratings like amperage and voltage, and their behavior can be affected by factors like temperature and pulse energy.
  3. Understanding the details of fuses is crucial for designing reliable circuit boards and ensuring proper functionality.

A Primer: Carbon Nanotubes

State of the Future • 24 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are now being used in various real-world products, especially in batteries and composites. They help make these products stronger, lighter, and more efficient.
  2. The production of CNTs has improved significantly over the years, making them more affordable and consistent. This means they can be used in more industries beyond just research.
  3. CNTs have unique properties that allow them to enhance many materials without needing much of them. This makes them particularly valuable in applications like construction, electronics, and aerospace.

Transmission line explorations - deeper investigations

Only Wonder Knows • 39 implied HN points • 20 Oct 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Establish a close relationship with the PCB manufacturer to discuss concerns and ask for expected ranges.
  2. Consider ordering a PCB carefully as design complexity increases, requiring more aspects to be taken into account.
  3. Copper roughness, dielectric materials, and DK uniformity are crucial factors to consider in PCB design for high-speed signals.

Signal reflections in electronic circuits

lcamtuf’s thing • 185 HN points • 25 Nov 23
🕹 Technology Electronics
  1. Signal reflections in electronic circuits can cause echoes of previously-transmitted signals due to impedance discontinuities.
  2. Electronic signals do not propagate through wires instantly, but travel at high speeds, around 80% of the speed of light in vacuum.
  3. Matching the characteristic impedance of the transmission line to the transmitter helps avoid issues with signal reflections in high-speed digital electronics.