USB Multi-Instrument Project: Six Test Instruments in One Tiny Box!

Turn your Windows-based PC into a versatile suite of test instruments using this USB design. It’s a 2-channel digital scope, AC DMM and frequency counter, plus a 2-channel audio signal/ function/ waveform generator - six useful instruments in one. 

Compatible with Windows-based Virtual Instrument software such as Virtins Mi 3.2 (standard and Pro versions, see our separate review this month). A single p.c.b. carries all components in a sturdy diecast box. High quality design for the experienced constructor.

 

SMD components – good soldering skills are necessary.

 

ClassiC-D Amplifier (Part 2)

Building the CLASSiC-D Amplifier – constructional details of the world’s first DIY high-power high-performance Class-D amplifier: 250W into 4 ohms, 150W into 8 ohms.

We also describe the loudspeaker protector board, power supply assembly and test procedures for the completed modules and show how to connect for mono, stereo or bridge modes.  

SMD components – good soldering skills are necessary.

 

Teach-In 2014 Raspberry Pi – Part 3

The Raspberry Pi board has now sold over two million units and has been an amazing success story.

 

This month our Teach-In Pi experts delve more deeply into the practical aspects of connecting a Pi to the outside world, including the GPIO library module. More Python Quickstart hints and tips are provided along with suggestions for further reading. An absolute must-read for Raspberry Pi fans everywhere!

Virtins Technology Multi-instrument 3.2 review

Here’s a run-down on a powerful software package that will let you use it as a 2-channel audios cope combined with a powerful spectrum analyser, 2-ch audio signal/ function generator and an audio DMM which even includes a frequency counter!

Read more about Virtins Technology Multi-instrument 3.2 in this review.

PIC n’ MIX

It’s "welcome back" to Mike Hibbett’s expertly-written column dedicated to PICmicro enthusiasts.  Mike continues his quest for a low-cost, low power PIC development board bringing us up to date with progress so far.

Circuit Surgery

Our in-house surgeon continues with Part 3 of his mini-series on mastering rotary encoders, including how to handle and clean up non-ideal signals.

 

Also in this issue:

 

• Interface for PC enthusiasts - Our Interface instructor offers an 8-bit ADC for the Raspberry Pi.
• Net Work- the Internet column - a round-up of the latest Google apps and using Google Voice Search on a Windows PC.
• Max’s Cool Beans Blog - Max discovers 507 Mechanical Movements from the 19th Century that are still as good today! A Solidoodle 3D printer also arrives in Max’s worklab.
• TechnoTalk blows the whistle on hi-fi accessory tomfoolery.
• Editorial, adverts, readers’ letters and more, all in the #1  UK Magazine for electronics technology and computer projects.

 

You can order a printed copy of EPE for delivery to your door (worldwide), or try the PDF Version (needs Adobe Reader for Windows), or the Pocketmags for your mobile device. Subscribe now!

 

 

Source code file 1213.zip (Updated 9/4/2014)

 

PCB artwork

 

As from July 2013 issue PCB artwork is available free to subscribers only. Non-subscribers may purchase artwork files for a nominal sum.

 

Please contact our Orders Dept for information or to place an order.

 

EPE Printed Circuit Boards

 

We can supply ready-made printed circuit boards (8-digit order codes) to the original design specification via mail order or from our Online Shop.