Hammer's United

Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T10:06:00.001+08:00

Steve Jobs 1955 - 2011.

Image from Apple.

Slient Key....9M2CM

2011-09-09T12:43:00.000+08:00

Was just informed by 9W2OBR via text message that Uncle Tommy as gone silent key earlier this morning. Wonderful man, always happy and ready to share experiences.

Spotted

2011-01-12T14:20:00.000+08:00

Spotted outside SKBD, when i went to pick up harmonic from school. Bang, Antenna wayar putus.

Jangan transmit.

Amateur Radio Buka puasa with RAKB orphans on 15 Aug 2010

2010-08-10T11:07:00.000+08:00

UniArm is organizating a Buka Puasa cum donation drive for the Rumah Amal Kasih Bestari (RAKB). Part of the orphanage was burnt down in a fire. Those interested to help in any way can visit the UniArm blog for more details. Or contact 9W2AXE (Azhar) directly @ 0192225724 or 9w2axe@gmail.com.

Spotted!

2010-03-15T20:28:00.000+08:00

While mining for salt at my salt mine during Mybytes road show, On the last day of the road show, A fellow ham member turn up. Actually he spotted me. Meet 9W2EFF. I WANT ONE OF THOSE T-SHIRT!!!!!

RAE 2009-2 Results

2010-02-10T10:28:00.004+08:00

The results RAE in December 16th 2009 are out! No more PDF file. Fill in your IC number to get your results.

Click here to check!

Spotted!

2010-02-04T10:36:00.001+08:00

Last Tuesday, my off day. Went for an eyeball with 9W2AXN at Plaza Damansara at Mubeen; and spotted 9M2AKF jalopy. Difficult area to find parking spot. But after 18:30 a bit easier.2 weeks back in the same area i spotted 9W2BRB's red Volvo. But could not find parking, hence i did not take pictures. :-(

RAE 2010-1 and CW tests

2010-01-22T10:36:00.001+08:00

Quote from McMc site:

The Morse Code Test (CW) will be held at 10.00 a.m. on 17 March 2010 at the SKMM HQ in Cyberjaya. Applications close at 5.00 p.m. on 5 February 2010.

The Radio Amateur Examination (RAE) will be held at 2.00 p.m. on 14 April 2010 at locations in the Northern and Central Regions of Peninsular Malaysia. Applications close at 5.00 p.m. on 12 February 2010.

Download 2010-1 CW test form.

Download 2010-1 RAE form.

More info...go here.

Spotted!

2010-01-18T11:35:00.000+08:00

Spotted 9W2SFC jelopy @ Damansara Intan. I usually have lunch @ Banana. If you frequent to this place, drop by Tropicana City Mall, Mybytes, G 25, Look for Hamid.

Spotted!

2009-12-31T10:49:00.000+08:00

Long time since a posting and spotting someone. Toooooooo busy at work, overworked! Anyways, Spotted 9W2OMA's jelopy at Tropicana City Mall, near the main entrance. Been a while since i have met him. Also spotted 9W2BBS, while driving back home that same night.

Happy new year to all !!!

Homopolar motor

2009-12-01T19:04:00.002+08:00

The battery was placed upside down. The magnet is at the bottom. The copper wire was exposed at the contact point. Go to dealextreme.com to get good RE magnets.

Thanks to 9W2AXN and 9W2BIL.

Update on latest project.

2009-11-19T15:32:00.003+08:00

Looks over sized.
Winding supposed to be 20" long but now 27".

:-}

Drilled 3, 1mm holes and threaded ends of the wire to get tension on the windings.

The remaining wire comes out from then inner side of the tube.

Winding up.

2009-11-13T10:18:00.000+08:00

Went to a machine shop and used this lathe.
.

Placed the 4" x 3' lacquered pipe in the machine and ran it at a blistering speed of 25rpm. Thats the slowest setting. :-) Should have started the winding a about 3 inches lower....would have had more winds.

Magnet wire winding completed.Measured 21ohm total resistance.

MyBytes opened for business...since 2 weeks ago

2009-11-03T10:29:00.005+08:00

The Apple retail out is now opened. Been too busy to post, been working overtime due to some complications. Also, our network does not allow to access my blog. I honestly dont know why blogger is blocked. But myspace, friendster, facebook and such are blocked. Initially youtube was blocked too.

Anyways, Come down to have a look at the new Macbook and Mac Mini. The NEW iMac and Magic mouse are not yet approved by SIRIM or as it is stated on Apple Malaysia's website "Pending for agency approval".

Also we have laser engraving service for engraving any non-reflective surfaces. Tried on copper and chrome surface, does not work. So iPod Classic and Touch cannot be engraved by our oversized true laser printer. :)
But have engraved on iPod Nano, Shuffle, Nokia handphone and other engraveable materials. BTW, the max engraving area is 60cm x 60cm....

Vids of engraving process can be seen here on facebook..

For more info drop by at Tropicana City Mall, Lot G 25.

RAE 2009-2

2009-09-25T09:12:00.002+08:00

Coming soon...
Closing date 16 Oct 2009 for appilcation.
Exam date 16 Dec 2009.

More info click here.

New project in the works.... :->

2009-09-23T19:58:00.001+08:00

Thanks to Basir, 9W2BSR, managed to find the shop selling magent wire. Shop was closed on Monday and Tuesday and finally opened today. I told my buddy they would be closed for Raya, but we went junst in case on the outside chance that they might not be celebrating raya.... :-) Shown here a spool of 0.60mm 2Kg of wire. GET IT BY THE KILO, IT'S ALOT CHEAPER. My evil rich friend is financing this project. Actually only wanted about 310 meters, but not sure if 2Kg is sufficient. If your buy by meter it costs RM1/meter.That work out to be RM310. We paid about RM100 for 2Kg. Price varies depending on copper price in the market. We hope there is enough length in 2Kg to get our project going.

TTFN for now.
73.

Silent Key...Al-Fatihah

2009-09-21T11:15:00.004+08:00

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi rajeun.

Was informed that a fellow ham, Mamat 9W2XSV, mother passed away last night in Tampin.

Semoga roh nya dicucuri rahmat dan di tempatkan bersama orang-orang yang beriman.

Al-Fatihah.

C Greetings

2009-09-16T21:18:00.001+08:00

Salah silap harap di maaf.

Got me a new tip.

2009-09-12T23:50:00.000+08:00

Went to Pasar Road after a very long time. More than a year, But did not get the items i actually wanted to. Just 4 days back was searching the net for digital multimeters. Didnt have enuf moolah to get one. Anyways I finally got a finer point tip for my Hakko. Cost me only RM18. This one is 0.25mm as compared to 0.5 that comes with the iron. The older Hakko broucher show only these 2 replacement tips, the new has added 2 more. Got it from Maplin.

Next, a digital multimeter. Fluke about 550 $ Sanwa about 150 $.

Spotted!

2009-09-07T22:20:00.003+08:00

Spotted 9W2JAT's jealopy in a traffic jam along Jalan Putra. The driver was a YL but check with McMc reveals that the call sign belongs to an OM.

Silent key

2009-08-21T19:43:00.002+08:00

I was informed via sms by 9W2AXN that his father-in-law went silent key and is on his way to Gopeng.

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi rajeun.

Sedekah kan Fatihah untuk roh allahyaraham.

Al-Fatihah.

RAE 2009-1 Results are out!

2009-08-13T20:49:00.003+08:00

Download this PDF from MCMC to check your results.

73.

Rigs Pinout

2009-08-09T17:23:00.012+08:00

I stumbled upon this great site with pinout for most rigs. PTT pinout for Kenwood, Alinco, Icom and many more. Those interested for their rigs for APRS or other purpose can go to this site. I will also have a link in the sidebar.

Sample of pinout and descriptions.

Click image to visit site.

Image by and copyright of Roy Frettsome, G4WPW.
Image used with prior premission.

Silent key.

2009-08-01T15:30:00.004+08:00

At 2:30 this afternoon, i was informed via sms by 9W2BSR that, 9W2MIL, Jamil, went silent key at 9pm last night.

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi rajeun.

Sedekah kan Fatihah untuk roh allahyaraham.

Al-Fatihah.

Moving on..

2009-07-31T08:55:00.006+08:00

I am moving on to a different job and will be selling Apple computers and products. Showroom is located at Tropicana Mall (Still under renovation).

Might later move on to the programming division and will be send for C++ training.

Job starts on the 3rd Aug 2009, but have to attend 1 week of training @ Apple Malaysia.
So if anyone need Apple computer products and/or services, Lima Lima me or drop by to see me.

73.

Spotted!

2009-07-24T08:54:00.002+08:00

Spotted a fellow ham making callsign sticker for his jelopy.

Callsign: 9W2PRS
Handle: MAT

Spotted!

2009-07-08T00:03:00.004+08:00

Spotted this jelopy in Centeral Market Paking while dropping off my XYL. 9W2-HS1TLI...A quick check with MCMC database reveals a fellow ham from Thailand.

9W2ICE harmonic's naming ceremony

2009-06-26T00:36:00.006+08:00

View Larger Map

To all who are invited, this Sunday, 28th 06 2009. From 1200 to 1500.
Click TO HERE and enter your address.

Those that are not invited, can hold a demonstration outside his house.... :-)

If 9M2RKK is up i will be on the air giving directions,
otherwise switch to V40, all this if Bob can find an antenna...

Protecting your PCB

2009-06-24T20:31:00.010+08:00

A completely cleaned PCB.
This will teach you how to protect you PCB foil pattern from oxidation. I am using a unetched PCB for demonstration. You would be doing this AFTER you etched you PCB.

I used a cotton bud, you could get an appropriate brush to do the same. The trick is using clear varnish to the tracks BEFORE soldering. Here i am applying varnish to to top part of the PCB.

This is what it looks like after the varnish is applied. It takes about 2 to 4 hours for the varnish to completely dry. This depends on how concentrate your varnish is. You can mix thinner in your varnish to dilute it if it takes too long. Also i do not recommend a very thick coat.

This is what the PCB looks like after a few days. Oxidation set in. Notice the part of PCB varnished is not affected.

This is the best part. Varnish not only protects your PCB, it also acts as flux which you don't have to wash off.

Top view of the solder joint. It perfect. So it protects your PCB and functions as flux. You can solder while the varnish is not yet dry, but it tends to be sticky. So take care. Oh...if you don't want to get high while varnishing, use appropriate protection.

73.

Spotted!

2009-06-17T22:39:00.000+08:00

Went to my friends house in Klang, Amazing View apartments, Spotted this jelopy in one of the parking lots.
Also left behind my name card on the windscreen.

Spotted!

2009-06-16T09:15:00.000+08:00

Spotted Alan's car near Warisan Maju, but no sign of Alan. Maybe he was across the street having a Tango Tango with some friends.

Spotted!

2009-06-06T20:40:00.003+08:00

His name is H. A. Rahim and uses 9W2XYL callsign, was spotted parked outside PWTC. Probably waiting for fare. :) I approached him, introduced myself to him. Friendly chap. Satu hari nanti kita roundtable.

Jigsaw

2009-04-25T10:19:00.008+08:00

About 3 years back i bought 2, 1000pcs, Glow in Dark Jigsaw puzzle for the kids. Does not really glow in the dark.

This is what it looks like during daytime.

This is picture taken in the dark with a bit of touch up.

Enter my UV light.

See Basir, my BIG UV light does have other use for it... :)

My PicKit2

2009-04-09T21:00:00.023+08:00

This is my OEM PicKIT2 i got. USB cable not shown.

Found a small container. Shaved of holes for usb and ribbon cable.

This is my 40 pin ZIF with RJ 45 as a ICSP socket.

if (PIC with <= 20 pins)
{ switch to down position;
place PIC in pin 11 on ZIF; }
else
{ place PIC in pin 1 on ZIF;
switch to up position; }

The PicKIT2 comes with a button for reprogramming last program. Since i am find it easier to press the "WRITE" button on the screen i did not make an opening for that button.

Click here for my ZIF Schematics or view more @ Downloadz section on this blog.

RAE 2009-1

2009-04-01T09:33:00.002+08:00

Thoses interested in sitting for the RAE can register now with SKMM. Exams will be on 24 June 2009. Closing date for registartion 17 April 2009 5pm. Download the registration form here.

Cleaning PCB

2009-03-28T21:21:00.004+08:00

To remove of oxidation, grease from PCB

Any grease or oxidation will make it difficult for the solder to stick. If your PCB is unclean, the best way to clean it is to get some household veinger, pour in a container large enough to place your PCB in. Add half teaspoon of salt and stir it. Add half cup of water. Then place the PCB in this bath solution and stir/shake the container for about 1 minute or so... You should have a extremely shiny and a bit smelly copper. Rinse under running water. Dry and start soldering. This tip was given to me by 9M2CF, Uncle Chow.

MU 1 - Liverpool 4

2009-03-15T19:19:00.005+08:00

Last nights Liverpool's victory against the arrogant MU was fanstastic. Though i miss the first half, due to work, the second half was very good. Should have been 1 - 5, if Gerrard had scored a sitter, but he balloned it! Now Liverpool didn't just beat MU, we trashed them. Fewer back passes and more counter attack, more like Liverpool in the 70'. Kudos to the team.

Spotted!

2009-03-06T15:40:00.004+08:00

Spotted this jelopy a while back but did not have time to post, and since my pc down, had to xfer pic from phone to another pc and post this. Spotted 9W2TZE 4x4 in Certral Market parking. During Chap Goh May......

DipTrace 2.0

2009-02-22T20:03:00.004+08:00

New fretures

Latest Releases

Version 2.0 (February 17, 2009)

Properties panel in PCB Layout and Schematic
Display/Hide layers in PCB Layout
Design Manager
Fanout
Hierarchical Schematic
Custom color for the net
Direction arrows for wires in Schematic
Thermal support in DXF Edge function
Arc traces in PCB Layout
Text in pattern editor
Unroute line command in PCB Layout
Make connection from trace end while routing (D3d and OpenGL modes).
Lock net structure in PCB Layout
Manual routing improved
Copy/paste works between instances
Internal connections in component pattern.
Panelizing of different PCBs on the same panel.
P-CAD ASCII Import/Export in Schematic and PCB Layout.
PADS ASCII 2005 Import/Export in PCB Layout.
8000+ new components

Download from here!!!

RAE Results 2008-2

2009-02-11T22:02:00.002+08:00

The RAE conducted late last year, results are out. Download the file here.

BOB's Birthday Bash.

2009-02-10T20:24:00.004+08:00

Friday eyeball on 20 Feb will be at Ali Baba @ Anis Puteri @ Warisan Maju from 2000hrs onwards. This is organized by 9W2ICE. All are invited!

PicKit2 V2.61

2009-02-03T10:53:00.005+08:00

Microchip has released the new version of PicKit2 software...
Download it (<4mb)
This one with .NET (>30MB).

And Here is the new V2.32 firmware upgrade for the PicKIT2.

See my OEM Pickit2 and ZIF.

Spotted!

2009-01-28T10:33:00.003+08:00

Spotted this 4X4 outside The Mall. No Antenna. Looks like a 9W2 call sign in Thai. Wonder what it says..Anyone know how to translate?

This one I spotted at Tangling Klinik parking lot. 9W2RIB, just missed him, He drove away about 5 minutes later.

Temp Solution

2009-01-28T10:31:00.000+08:00

PC is temporary running..Buts hangs in 5-10 minutes..Will look at it when have more time...System fonts look wierd...Maybe i need to reinstall.

When it rains, it pours!

2009-01-22T10:14:00.002+08:00

Firstly my PC died, then went my workbench psu, then my mini drill and VGA card. When my PC up and running, will post something.

Selamat Menyambut Ma'al Hijrah 1430

2008-12-28T19:15:00.002+08:00

Doa Akhir Tahun:

Maksudnya:

Allah SWT berselawat ke atas penghulu kami Muhammad SAW, ahli keluarga dan sahabat-sahabat baginda dan kesejahteraan ke atas mereka. Wahai Tuhan, apa yang telah aku lakukan dalam tahun ini daripada perkara-perkara yang Engkau tegah daripada aku melakukannya dan aku belum bertaubat daripadanya. Sedangkan Engkau tidak redha dan tidak melupakannya. Dan aku telah melakukannya di dalam keadaan di mana Engkau berupaya untuk menghukumku, tetapi Engkau mengilhamkanku dengan taubat selepas keberanianku melakukan dosa-dosa itu semuanya. Sesungguhnya aku memohon keampunanMu, maka ampunilah aku. Dan tidaklah aku melakukan yang demikian daripada apa yang Engkau redhainya dan Engkau menjanjikanku dengan pahala atas yang sedemikian itu. Maka aku memohon kepadaMu. Wahai Tuhan! Wahai yang Maha Pemurah! Wahai Yang Maha Agung dan wahai Yang Maha Mulia agar Engkau menerima taubat itu dariku dan janganlah Engkau menghampakan harapanku kepadaMu Wahai Yang Maha Pemurah. Dan Allah berselawat ke atas penghulu kami Muhammad, ke atas ahli keluarga dan sahabat-sahabatnya dan mengurniakan kesejahteraan ke atas mereka.

Doa Awal Tahun
Maksudnya:

Allah SWT berselawat ke atas penghulu kami Muhammad SAW, ahli keluarga dan sahabat-sahabat baginda dan kesejahteraan ke atas mereka. Wahai Tuhan, Engkaulah yang kekal abadi, yang qadim. yang awal dan ke atas kelebihanMu yang besar dan kemurahanMu yang melimpah dan ini adalah tahun baru yang telah muncul di hadapan kami. Kami memohon pemeliharaan dariMu di sepanjang tahun ini dari syaitan dan pembantu-pembantunya dan tentera-tenteranya dan juga pertolongan terhadap diri yang diperintahkan melakukan kejahatan dan usaha yang mendekatkanku kepadaMu Wahai Tuhan Yang Maha Agung dan Maha Mulia. Wahai Tuhan Yang Maha pengasih dari mereka yang mengasihi dan Allah berselawat ke atas penghulu kami Muhammad. Nabi yang ummi dan ke atas ahli keluarga dan sahabat-sahabatnya dan kesejahteraan ke atas mereka.

Barangsiapa yang membaca doa akhir tahun ini, maka syaitan akan berkata:
"Hampalah kami di sepanjang tahun ini".

73's.

Merry christmas

2008-12-25T22:33:00.000+08:00

To all my friends and visitors celebrating have a very Merry Christmas and Happy new year.

Please remember this :-

Don't drink and drive,
You might hit and bump and spill it. :-)

73's.

9W2BOE WEDS!

2008-12-18T16:33:00.002+08:00

Zafry had the bersanding ceremony on Sunday, 14th of December.

Picture courtesy of 9W2AXN!

From left: 9W2OBR, 9W2AXN, 9W2BOE and XYL, YL of and standing next to 9W2PGU, 9W2GU and 9W2ULL.

Insyallah kekal selamanya. AMIN.

Eid-ul-Adha Mubarak.

2008-12-07T09:19:00.001+08:00

Selamat Hari Raya too all celebrating.

Etch tank

2008-12-05T10:16:00.001+08:00

Get a small fish aquarium to use as an etch tank. Big enough to place your biggest PCB into it. This one is 8"x5". Also get some air tubing and suckers to hold the tubing to the base of the tank.
You can get a small air pump, as displayed, or get a bigger one...More power, more bubbles. :-)
Heat one end the the air tubing with an open flame and then seal it using pliers.
This is what is looks like after it is sealed.
Using a fine sewing needle make holes in the tubing towards the sealed end. If holes are big, the bubbles will be big, I prefer many smaller holes and finer bubbles. Make holes the length of the tank.
Use the sucker the hold the tubing do the base of the tank.
I made a cover from cardboard and made a hole for tubing to fit thru. the board was cut at the back about 2" and rejoined using masking tape.
The cover is more of a protection from the bubbles splashes escaping the tank and staining anything around it.
Use water to test the tubing, once satisfied the the bubbles, (size of bubbles and the length of tubing where the bubbles released), drain water and replace with Ferric Chloride.

The tank is use to speed up the etching process. I tape a length of string one the back of the PCB and let it float on the etching solution. You will know it is done when you can see the PCB design Refer to my older post.

I stopped using the air stone as it does not last and disintegrates over time. You can also purchase from fish shops air tube that produces fine bubbles. Where is the fun in homebrewing in doing that... :)

Spotted!

2008-11-29T09:24:00.003+08:00

This jelopie was spotted in HKL some time back. Time, about 5pm on the 14/11/2008. 9W2BUS you been spotted! By the looks of this jelopie, I think 9w2XL might know him. Pertonas call sign Oscar Lima. Maybe one day we can eyeball.

Team KBz

2008-11-16T22:16:00.005+08:00

Team KillerBeez, came in 3rd for division 2 World Cup Asia 2008 Paintball tournament. Congrats to 9W2AXN, 9W2ULL, 9W2BOE, 9W2XSV, 9W2CAY, 9W2ALX ,9W2PGU and Speck..

Image used without prior permission. :-)

Converting PC power supply unit for Workbench

2008-11-13T18:30:00.001+08:00

This is a very simple project, for those interested in testing circuits and other misc uses.
Since the PC power supply outputs 3 voltages, 3.3, 5 and 12V, you will need 4 terminals, 1 for ground.

Make sure the AC in not plugged it.
Begin by trimming off all the connectors.

Yellow is 12V.
Red is 5V.
Orange is 3.3 V.
Black is Ground.

Green is usually for on and off the power supply. Refer to the side of your power supply. Sometimes it is the gray wire. Solder a Green and a black to wire to a switch.

Take 2 wire strand of each colors and trim off the the tip. Untangle em. Solder all, 2 strand of same color together. So now you have 2 yellow, 2 red, 2 orange and 2 black. You dont really need 2 strands but you never know when you need more amp. :) This will ensure your cables dont melt. Solder these to the terminals. Label the outputs on the casing.

Use an orange wire (3.3V) to power up your LED.
You can get a 1K resistor and connect solder it to a LED and a black wire for ground. This will indicate to you that the supply is on or off.

Close everything back and give it a shot. :)

Another Public holiday

2008-10-27T15:59:00.002+08:00

26 days after Eid, we in Malaysia now have another public holiday.

Happy Deepavali to all celebrating, Especially my friends.

RAE 2008 - 2

2008-10-19T10:24:00.002+08:00

Too all those SWL's who want to sit for RAE, Register soon, as the closing date is 24 October 2008 and the Exams will be held on 17 December 2008.

Download your RAE application form.

73's and good luck.

Selamat Hari Raya

2008-09-29T21:15:00.005+08:00

Wishing all visitors to this blog, Selamat Hari Raya. Kalau ada silap salah, saya mohon maaf zahir batin. Happy Holidays.

Maulana tutup berapa hari ah?

No posting

2008-09-25T20:46:00.002+08:00

It's been a while since my last post due to the modem being down and then the line was down.

Hope to post something by next week after Raya. Selamat menjalankan ibadah puasa.

9M2DS Silent key

2008-08-31T09:15:00.003+08:00

I am sure many if not all of you already know that on Thursday, 28th Aug at 19:00, 9M2DS aka Pak Dollah went silent key. He suffered heart attack day earlier and was warded in KLGH by is son.

Al-Fatiha.

RAE results

2008-08-23T00:02:00.003+08:00

RAE session 1 for 2008 will be out some time next week...

UPDATED
Click the link here to view the PDF result file.

Congrats to Pingu (nuk-nuk), Zafry and Mamat for passing the RAE.

9W2MRZ Weds

2008-08-22T23:58:00.002+08:00

On Wednesday, 9W2MRZ, aka Zack, took the plunge. Hmmmm..who's next. Will post some pics when i get hold of some.

PSU 15V 22A

2008-07-28T19:53:00.007+08:00

My very first project as an amateur radio operator was a power supply unit. It is transformer based. And i build this from the schematics from the net. Also i did not have knowledge of UV PCB back then, so it was build on a vero board.... Not recommended. I added a volt and ammeter not in the schematics. The volt meter is connected across the +ve and -ve DC output and the ammeter is thru the DC +ve output. Also i recommend a bigger or 3 or 4 22000uF capacitors in parallel and a 18V 22A transformer instead of 15V.

To those who want to built this here are the schematics or you can get newer designs from http://users.belgacom.net/hamradio/homebrew.htm.

Click to enlarge

This design is no longer available on that site. Below my finished product.

9M2CJ father Silent key

2008-07-22T00:32:00.003+08:00

My deepest condolences to Thiam (9M2CJ) and his family, on the demise of his fundamental this morning.

And the winner is....

2008-07-20T10:22:00.002+08:00

TEAM V17-B

Congrats to Team V17-B for winning the Selangor Open foxhunt.

Sorry i couldn't make it due to prior commitments.

Weekly Friday Eyeball Location Changed

2008-07-14T10:16:00.007+08:00

Next Friday's eyeball will be held at Maulana's. Pass the word around to other, in case they don't know. Location is not that far from AP2. Click map to enlarge image. Refer to map below on how to get there. Set you GPS to 3°9'11"N 101°37'19"E.

On a break.

2008-07-12T10:32:00.002+08:00

Guys i am taking a mental break. So much to do lately. So i will leave you guys with a couple of jokes. The second one will be easier for programmers to understand.

Joke 1
When the Software industry had badly gone down, three
software giants Sun, SCO(UNIX) and Microsoft started
producing condoms and named them Java-condom , CondomiX
and MS-Comdome respectively.

A customer using Java-condom complained to Sun that
the condom doesn't fit correctly.
Sun replied:
"Wait till we get the ISO standard".
They boasted that it will fit to any size irrespective of
underlying structure.

Well, the customer switched to CondomiX and found that
by the time he finshes reading the instructions, given
along with condomiX, his wife was sleeping and he himself
was forgetting why he is using CondomiX.

Finally he swiched to MS-Condome. To his surprise it was
very good.....and comfortable!. He used it happily.
Six months later he found that his wife was pregnant. He got
angry and complained to Micrsoft. He got his reply from
Microsoft:

PATCH IS COMING SOON..!

Joke 2

Micro was a real-time operator and dedicated multi-user. His broad-band
protocol made it easy for him to interface with numerous input/output devices,
even if it meant time-sharing.

One evening he arrived home just as the Sun was crashing, and had parked his
Motorola 68040 in the main drive (he had missed the 5100 bus that morning),
when he noticed an elegant piece of liveware admiring the daisy wheels in his
garden. He thought to himself, "She looks user-friendly. I'll see if she'd
like an update tonight."

Mini was her name, and she was delightfully engineered with eyes like COBOL
and a PR1ME mainframe architecture that set Micro's peripherals networking
all over the place.

He browsed over to her casually, admiring the power of her twin, 32-bit
floating point processors and enquired "How are you, Honeywell?". "Yes, I am
well", she responded, batting her optical fibers engagingly and smoothing her
console over her curvilinear functions.

Micro settled for a straight line approximation. "I'm stand-alone tonight",
he said, "How about computing a vector to my base address? I'll output a
byte to eat, and maybe we could get offset later on."

Mini ran a priority process for 2.6 milliseconds, then transmitted 8 K. "I've
been dumped myself recently, and a new page is just what I need to refresh my
disks. I'll park my machine cycle in your background and meet you inside."
She walked off, leaving Micro admiring her solenoids and thinking, "Wow, what
a global variable, I wonder if she'd like my firmware?"

They sat down at the process table to top of form feed of fiche and chips and a
bucket of baudot. Mini was in conversation mode and expanded on ambiguous
arguments while Micro gave the occassional acknowledgements, although, in
reality, he was analyzing the shortest and least critical path to her entry
point. He finally settled on the old 'Would you like to_see_my_benchmark
routine', but Mini was again one step ahead.

Suddenly she was up and stripping off her parity bits to reveal the full
functionality of her operating system software. "Let's get BASIC, you RAM",
she said. Micro was loaded by this; his hardware was in danger of overflowing
its output buffer, a hang-up that Micro had consulted his analyst about.
"Core", was all he could say, as she prepared to log him off.

Micro soon recovered, however, when Mini went down on the DEC and opened her
divide files to reveal her data set ready. He accessed his fully packed root
device and was just about to start pushing into her CPU stack, when she
attempted an escape sequence.

"No, no!", she cried, "You're not shielded!"

"Reset, Baby", he replied, "I've been debugged."

"But I haven't got my current loop enabled, and I can't support child
processes", she protested.

"Don't run away", he said, "I'll generate an interrupt."

"No, that's too error prone, and I can't abort because of my design
philosophy."

Micro was locked in by this stage, though, and could not be turned off. But
Mini soon stopped his thrashing by introducing a voltage spike into his main
supply, whereupon he fell over with a head crash and went to sleep.

"Computers!", she thought, as she recompiled herself. "All they ever think of
is hex!"

Fox hunting! Yagi!

2008-06-29T22:50:00.004+08:00

To find the fox you need to build a directional antenna. Yagi is usually used. Test the antenna after you build it, an make sure it is DIRECTIONAL. A friend of mine built, i think the world first omni-directional yagi.

Below links to some sites to help you build a yagi. Take care building it, measurement must be precise. If you are the adventurous kind, check the net to build an attenuator. This will help you find the fox more accurately.

Tape measure Yagi
http://home.att.net/~jleggio/projects/rdf/tape_bm.htm
http://www.open-circuit.co.uk/tape.php

Attenuator
http://home.att.net/~jleggio/projects/rdf/p_atten.htm
http://home.att.net/~jleggio/projects/rdf/a_atten.htm

Sign up quickly, only 20 days left...Happy hunting..73's.

FOX Hunt (Selangor Open)

2008-06-29T10:31:00.002+08:00

Fox hunt, Selangor open is being organized. To enter and more details, Click This Link!

PSU Blown

2008-06-14T16:30:00.005+08:00

A freak thunderstorm struck my area about 7 days ago. My PC's PSU is blown. PC was plugged in but not turned on. So until i get a replacement (which may take some time), there wont be any posting from me. Currently using a borrowed PC. Moral, remove power point of pc even if not turned on. Malaysian storms are getting worse. luckily only the pc's psu was fried. Printer and modem safe. Thank GOD for the lightning arrestor installed. Hopefully the motherboard and other accessories are not fried.

73s...

RAE Class

2008-06-04T09:52:00.007+08:00

For those wanting to sit for the up and coming RAE, may want to attend a class to refresh your memory. Follow this link for more info.

Best of luck in the exams.

Soldering Lead Dispenser

2008-05-25T19:04:00.021+08:00

Download template here.

Went to a shop that frames pictures at Jalan TAR and Jalan Ipoh, and got this cardboard sheet from there. One sheet was for RM$16 for 8' x 4' size. Had it cut into 4' x 4' size as shown on the left. And it would not fit in my car. Had to carry it back all the way to my saltmine in The Mall. Then got my xyl to come to my saltmine with the other jelopy to take it home.

Bought this brass rod long time ago to make an quarter wave antenna but never got around to doing it. The rod is 3mm thick and about 1 meter long.

I did a template of the dispenser in Gimp. Actually i am using a different template than the one shown. :)

Using the template i cut the baord about 1cm larger than the template size. Cut two pieces one for each side one smaller piece for the base and one narrower piece for the back. You will understand everything soon enough.

If you make you own template, cater for the board thickness. If you can cut the board at 45 degrees angle that would be the best. My new template already caters for the board thickness so you don't have to cut 1cm extra.

Get 6 nuts, the hole must be big enough for the brass rod to comfortably fit through it.

Then cut as shown. For this i wish i had a Dremel with the cutting blade. But it didn't take long with a hacksaw. I placed the nut in a vice vertically and cut 1 off the 6 sides off.

Make hole where the black dot is and then place the template on the board and using a marker mark dot. Make sure template is aligned. For the other board turn the template around.

Draw lines away from the dot you marked earlier at 90 degrees. I used an ell. Then align the nut's straight side to the left. The dot must be visible through the nuts hole. Remember to mirror the nuts on the other board. I used crazy glue to hold the nuts in place.

The project is now taking shape. Again using crazy glue. Need to hold parts in place with some pressure for about 15 seconds or so. Then leave overnight to dry completely.

I got some styrofoam and stuffed it into the hole of each spool. Then cut of the excess and used a screw to make a hole somewhat in the center of it. The screw was short, (man i hate short screws) :) so i drove the screw on the other side. This is so that the brass rod can be inserted in with ease and does not expand the hole. Man this is beginning to sound vulgar. Cut brass rod to size measuring each of the 3 spool position individually. It may look same but may be off by 1 or 2 mm depending on your board.

The completed product on the right. Can be used as shown on the left. But i had other ideas. You can make it shorter with less spacing between spools. My spacing is based on the biggest spool size and my stubby fingers. So i have enough space to remove the spool should i need to.

This is how i decided to use it. Was thinking of removing the soldering iron holder and mounting it to the side of the box but decided against it. Fire dept. did not approve that idea. :)

73's happy homebrewing, 9w2gu going QRT.

New Toy

2008-05-15T10:16:00.008+08:00

After collecting some spare cash, ran down to Pasar Road on Wednesday and got meself a Hakko Presto. The only model they had was the one with the cover. The one without the cover might have been cheaper. Also got Kester 0.5mm soldering lead. Total spend RM100.00. Far much less than what Uncle Chow (9M2CF) spent last week. ;-) All Prestos come with 0.5mm tip, still looks a bit big. Might change it to 0.25mm tip later. That alone is about RM35.00, but lasts a very long time.

My new Hakko Presto 20W/130W iron. Button for 130W.

Doesn't comes fitted with plug.

Kester 0.5mm 500gms.

Nine Whiskey Two India Charlie Echo WEDS!

2008-05-14T00:13:00.005+08:00

9W2ICE (Arshad) aka BOB has finally tied the knot. My warmest wishes love goes out to both MR and MRS BOB. Live long happy and prosperous.

Sorry dear, you no longer a YL dear.

After the nikah ceremony.

9W2ICE at his Henna ceremony.

Practicing Morse

2008-05-07T09:22:00.003+08:00

Go to this site and build the circuit, program it, hook it up to your keyer and start sending CW.

Download the schematics from here.

CW Lessons

2008-04-24T23:43:00.003+08:00

k7qo.iso.zip file is 350,578,272 bytes. Read the PDF file first before anything else. (Note this is a newer version, i have not download it yet. may not be simila to what i have). To me this is a good way to learn morse. There are other software that teach you morse. Remember when you were a kid and started to speak. By hearing your parents you picked up the language. This method is same. Important thing is not to count the dit and dah. Once you are proficient you will be hearing word instead of letters. Just like reading this post. You are not reading the individual letters but the whole word.

Best of luck.

73's.

MORSE

2008-04-24T00:20:00.002+08:00

Hopefully by now you have made your iambic keyer. Now to learn morse code (CW). But you need to first build a circuit to practice your morse on. You can download the diagram from here or go the the author/creator's site for more info. Later i will be posting morse lessons for download.

de.

PIC Lessons

2008-04-20T21:41:00.003+08:00

When i first started this blog, it was my intention to educate to those interested in PIC Programming. But now I am contrubiting to the PIC lessons blog with my Sifu, 9w2bsr, Basir. So why reinvent the wheel. Those interested can visit that site and maybe even give suggestions on how to improve it. But if you still want to ask me questions you can do so here or email me.

Thanks.

Hook Line and Sinkers

2008-04-11T10:39:00.015+08:00

Making you own sinkers. Sometimes strong under sea currents move your sinker around and give you the impression that you have a bite. Well I have made my own sinkers using lead from car’s dead lead acid battery. Though my design is simple, you could make better ones. My idea is that the sinker should lie flat. It never moves even with strong currents. But the drag on retrieve can be a bit high. Below are the sample of some of the sinkers made by me and my friends.

	First you need to get and clean (as much as possible) the lead plates from the battery.
	Then in a TIN can melt it. Should be done in open area. Lead vapors are poisonous.
	Steel band used as a mould. Then the basic shape is formed.
	Place the mould on a piece of wood. Open area aligned to the top.
	Do the same for the other side and secure it firmly with some string. Then pour molten lead into the opening. To make a hole for the line, I use the bone from a palm tree leaf, dip in coconut oil and quickly drive it thru the molten lead before it hardens. It hardens in about 2 or 3 seconds. Leave to cool down naturally.
	Sample of my homemade sinkers.
	This one made by my friend using aluminum as a mould. Much soother surface.

Gallery.

I love this quote:-

“A bad day of fishing is better than your best day at work.”

Tight lines.

Yagi design

2008-04-10T10:02:00.002+08:00

My friend Basir, wants to make a 900MHz yagi antenna. I recommend using QuickYagi4, a DOS, based freeware software. It's frequency range is from 1.5MHz to 999.999 MHz. Unfortunately cannot be used to design an antenna for the 3G, which uses 2100MHz. But give it a try. I have friends designed 2M antenna with this software and works great.

It can be downloaded from here.

RAE registration

2008-04-04T10:50:00.004+08:00

The RAE examination 2008-1 registration will open on 7th April 2008 and close on 25th April.

The examination will be on 24th June 2008.

Those interested in taking the exam, Please register yourself with MCMC. Download the RAE form from here.

9W2GU's homebrew simple IAMBIC key

2008-03-30T09:52:00.032+08:00

My simple Iambic key build for practicing Morse. It works fine, but the feel is not of that of commercial product. But it work and it is a simple project to do. Materials I use to make mine is wood, PCB and lead for weight.

The Base
Using a piece of wood for base 5" x 5" x 0.75".

Then, poor me, with out a CNC, i painstakingly chiseled out a hole at the bottom 3" x 2.5" X 0.5" deep. This will be used to fill with molten lead, so that to give extra weight to the base and not move when keying.

The paddle mounting

Two small wooden blocks. Oner for mounting the paddle and the other for contact.

Smaller block is 1.5" x 1" x 1.5"
Lager one is 1.5" x 1.5" x 1.5"

The smaller block and contact plates. Hole drilled through all for ground contact.

The Lead

You will need lots of these. I get mine from car's dead lead acid battery. Then washed.

A tin container is used to melt the lead. You'll need about half full of molten lead. Once the lead melts, there will be more sand like and other stuff floating on the molten lead. This you need to get rid of after you pour the molten lead.

The molten lead poured into the bottom side of the base. Let it cool naturally. Do not pour water to cool. Takes about 20 minutes.

The Paddle

Made from PCB and painted. Hole in the center is for ground contact. Those on the side for mounting on the holder.

The IAMBIC keyer

Connect screws with bolts on both side of the paddle for ground contact. Adjust distance and tighten. The left side is dit and right is dah.

Side view of the wiring. Notice the blue wire. That connect the conatct point to the ground.

Red is dit and white is dah.

The completed IAMBIC keyer.

I use the IK0WRB module for this iambic key for morse tones.

---Download the PDF file for containng PCB foil and TopSilk in PDF fromat
2MHz model
4MHz model
Schematics and Hex File for PIC

Now to think of a better design. Any better ideas out there?

73's.

PCB Part 5 (Soldering addendum)

2008-03-28T08:53:00.004+08:00

:) Left this part out.

After you have soldered your components and tested your board. Now for the finishing touch. You can lacquer the Bottom of the PCB. My friend Basir uses florescent yellow spray paint and gives a light coat. This prevents the copper from oxidizing. Though not required, its recommended you do it. Other option is that you tin the PCB before soldering. I cannot get an even coating and don't like the way it looks. Getting a tinning solution for a neater even coat is another option but too expensive.

Also checkout this link on protecting PCB.

PCB (Part 5 Soldering)

2008-03-25T08:55:00.007+08:00

Part 5 (Soldering)

And now, for the final chapter in PCB making, soldering. Though it may seem complicated, it is actually very easy. The best way to get a perfect joint is to practice, practice and more practice. You need a good soldering iron, solder remover (sucker), soldering lead, flux, “Helping hands”, soldering iron stand and metal clippers.

Remember, a higher wattage iron does not mean it get hotter faster. 20 to 30 watts is sufficient. A good iron to get is Hakko Presto or Dash. The soldering lead should be the fine 0.5mm type. Never scrape the tip of the iron. Wipe on damp natural sponge to clean it. Once you are done soldering, don’t force cool the iron, let it cool down naturally.

It is entirely up to you to cut the component leads to size before or after you solder. I find it neater to do it before. Mount the component on the PCB. Touch the tip of the hot iron on both the component lead and the pad then touch the other side of the component lead and pad with soldering lead. Let it melt and flow around. Remove the lead and then the iron. Always clean the tip of the iron before and after soldering on a damp natural sponge..

That’s all there is to it. If you find that doesn’t work too well, dip the tip of the iron in flux for a microsecond, and then solder. Or melt a tiny bit of lead on the tip of the iron and solder the component lead.

I suggest that you practice on a vero board (strip board). Use discarded network or phone cable. Practice until your soldering is perfect. The whole process of soldering takes less than 2 seconds. You know you have a good solder joint when it is cone shape and shiny.

When soldering PCB ALWAYS solder the lower components first, example: jumpers (if any), resistors, diodes, transistors, capacitors, etc.

Check orientation of polarized components BEFORE you solder. ie diode, cap, transistor, IC.

Strip board and some network wires for soldering practice

Helping Hands are great for holding up project and a extra one can even be used to hold component in place while you solder.

Top two joints are example of bad soldering. Bottom two joints are ideal

This concludes my lessons on PCB making. Thank you for your support. As usual, should have any questions, leave me comments.

Things to remember:

When doing PCB layout, take into account for housing/casing.
Label and store toxic chemicals in high and dry places where children cannot reach.
Print in 600dpi or higher resolution.
Examine printout for shorts and open circuit.
Dispose of used developer in a safe manner.
Examine etched PCB for shorts and open circuit.
Always drill smaller holes first. For double sided PCB drill before you etch.
Mount low components first.
Soldering should not take more than 2 seconds per pad.

Additional stuff i left out... :)

QRT QRX when to use?

2008-03-17T00:58:00.001+08:00

Do you know what QRT/QRX means? This article explains in details. QRX/QRT is not used as it should. That even goes for QTH, maybe we need to brush up on our Q Codes. :)

Part 4 Etching and Drilling

2008-03-16T21:00:00.004+08:00

Etching.

Before I continue, I want you to give yourself a pat on your back for job well done. J The etching process is same regardless of method used to transfer the pattern on PCB. Now; for the dirtiest part of the whole PCB making process.

The etchant is FeCl_3.Also know as Ferric Chloride. It can be obtained from any respectable electronic shop. Don’t get the solution. Buy the crystals and make the solution yourself. It costs less than RM5 for the crystals. WARNING: FERRIC CHLORIDE STAINS MAKE SURE IT DOES NOT SPILL ON YOUR CLOTHES, FLOOR OR ANY WHERE ELSE. The ratio for mixture is 1 to 3. You need hot water and a plastic container to mix the etchant. Use the whole packet, dissolve it. FeCl₃is very toxic. The container with ferric chloride must be labeled and store in a safe place.

For etching, pour some in a deep container (used ice-cream container) until half full. Pour the balance in a bottle and label it. Container must be large enough to fill your largest project PCB. FeCl₃ is reusable, so don't dispose of it after use. Leave it in the container and cover it.

The etching process should not take too long, about 5-10 minutes. Depending on your solution strength. To speed up the process, get an aquarium air pump, air stone, some tubing and some suckers. Place the air stone in the container with the etchent. Tape a string to the top of the board. Place the board so it floats on the etchent. Then turn on the air pump. Within 5 to 10 minutes, you PCB should be ready. If left too long in the etchent, your tracks might dissolve. And if not long enough, your excess copper wont dissolve. It's a good idea to check the PCB every 5 minutes or so, if you are not sure. Once etching is done. Check the PCB for shorts and open circuit. The green layer of UV sensitive coating will still be on the tracks. Soldering with coating on is not recommended, because it takes the lead sometime to stick and the joint is not clean. This coating can be removed by exposing the board to UV again and placing it in the developer solution. But if you still want it then, just expose the pads and develop the PCB.

FeCl₃ Anhydrous

The mixed, solution. Keep extra in bottle and label it.

Air pump, air stone and sucker. Is optional, but increases etching time.

Place PCB face down in and let it float. Turn on air pump.

Drilling

This is easy on the phenolic board. But a but difficult on the FR4. I use a high speed motor for RC toys and got the bits from Pasar Road (again).
You can use a 9V battery to power the drill, but i use an old PC power supply, modified, for my projects. Make sure the bit doesn't wobble when drilling. It usually does at high speed. I am using 0.8mm and 1mm bits. Couldn't find the 0.7mm bits. For double sided PCBs, drill the pads before you etch. For faster and cleaner drilling, use a Dremel high speed drill with flexi hose.

The drills used.

My PSU to drive the drills and test projects.

Next Part 5 .... The conclusion.

PCB Part 3 UV

2008-03-14T01:14:00.012+08:00

Part 3

Before I continue, Let me tell you what you will learn and need in this chapter.

UV PCB (Photo sensitive PCB)
a little about the tracing paper
constructing a simple UV exposure box
constructing a PCB exposure unit
mixing and using the developer solution
doing a test exposure

The UV PCB

The photosensitive UV PCB comes in this packing.

The UV PCB can be obtained from Maplin at Pasar Road or any respectable electronics shop. This PCB has a special chemical coating that is sensitive to UV. This come is Paper Phenolic, FR4 Glass epoxy and CEM3 Glass epoxy. Also comes in various sizes. One board of 150mm x 300mm should last for quite a lot of small to medium size projects.

Tracing Paper

The paper we will be printing on for UV transfer is tracing paper. This is not the normal tracing paper, but a thicker kind. Used for plan printing. 1 A1 sheet of this paper cost me RM$2 and cuts into 8 A4 sheets. Remember print at 600dpi or higher resolution.

Tracing paper cut into A4 sheet.

UV Exposure Box

This you have to construct. You can opt to get a UV specially made for PCB transfer, more $$$.$$ or get the cheaper version. The difference is the time taken for exposure, 60-90 seconds compared to 5-7 minutes. Installing a 2^nd UV tube, about 2 to 3 inches apart decreases your exposure time to 2-4 minutes depending on your setup.

WARNING: Avoid yourself from exposure to UV.

My simple UV exposure box

Dimensions: 24” x 10” x 8”

Inside lined with aluminum foil for reflecting back UV downward. This actually decreases the exposure time.

Warning: Exposure to UV can damage you eyes. When lit, this is what it looks like when on.

PCB Exposure Unit

This is actually a glorified term for something that holds the PCB and the printout together. You can buy this, again at Pasar Road. To build one, you need a rectangle wooden chopping block, a photograph frame with glass, some small hinges, sponge and some kind of locking mechanism.

	Top view of the unit. The green stuff is the sponge. My unit measures 8” x 6”, with an exposure area of 6.5” x 4.5”.
	I lined the inside of the unit with aluminum foil.
	The locking hook. This is closed when PCB is in the unit so that the printout pushes down on the PCB.
	Back view. Small hinges required. Also notice that I have added legs to make it closer to the UV light.

Mixing the developer

Before I proceed any further, you will need to make a developer solution. What the developer does is, it washes away the photosensitive coating exposed to UV. You will then be left with the pattern that you printed.

The Developer

WARNING! WARNING! WARNING! The developer solution is extremely caustic. It is made from NaOH (Sodium Hydroxide) or in English, caustic soda. Keep out or reach of children and store in high place. The ratio required for developing is 7gm NaOH to 1 liter of water. My solution is 10 times more concentrated, 70gm to 1 liter. I use 20ml of 10X solution and add 180ml of water. This way I don’t have make the solution every time is need to use it. Keep the solution in a thick plastic container like empty milk or fabric softener bottle and label it! Store the flakes in an air tight container and label it. I honestly don’t know where to get NaOH flakes from. I know someone who knows someone who got it for me. If you want them, and eyeball often enough, I will help you get some.

	NaOH Flakes
	10X Developer. 70gm:1liter ratio. Remember to label the container.
	View on the other side
	Make sure the label is large. In case someone mistakes it as drinking water.

Your first exposure

OK, I have done my schematics and printed your PCB foil on tracing paper and made my developer. But for how long should I expose my PCB under the UV? To find this out, you need to do a test exposure. Download this test pattern. Remember, paper is placed with printed (toner side) on copper. By doing this you have mirrored your image. Cut PCB and paper to size and tape edges of paper to PCB. Normally you would not need to tape, but for this exercise you do. Once you have taped the test pattern to the PCB, use a business card, to cover numbers 1 – 9. Place in your PCB exposure unit. Expose No 10 to UV for 1 min. Then move to card to cover 1 -8, and expose for 1 minute. Repeat until No 1 is exposed for 1 minute.

Now you have a 10 minutes exposure test. If you have a high end UV, expose in blocks of 10 or 15 seconds.

This test determines you best time of exposure. Next time use this time to develop your PCB projects.

	Printout of my old test pattern
	Taped to the PCB on the edges.
	Excess tape on the back.
	Exposing No 10 to UV and covering the rest.
	Exposing No 9 and 10 to UV and covering the rest. Continue exposing every column for 1 minute.

Developing

Pour 20ml of 10X developer into a plastic container large enough to hold your PCB. An old ice-cream container will do. Then add 180ml of water to the developer. Remember always mix chemical to water and not the other way around. Place your PCB in the developer bath and in 10 to 15 seconds it should be developed. If not, try lightly shaking the container. If still nothing happens, remove the PCB, either by hand or if you have sensitive skin, you latex gloves or plastic tweezers. Take some 10X solution using a straw. Put 2 or 3 drops of it in the bath. Stir the bath and place the PCB back in. But if you measurement for the developer was correct, you should not have any problems.

Using an old cough mixture bottle for measuring.

Place the PCB in the bath and lightly shake the container.

1-5 minutes is underexposed. Tracks are not visible or blurred.

6-8 minutes is good 6 being the fastest.

9-11 minutes is overexposed. Tracks are getting thinner and dimmer.

That’s all there is to it. Developing a PCB should not take more than 7 minutes. If you want faster results, use transparencies. Exposing time is much shorter; I got 3 minutes for best results compared to 6 minutes. But are more expensive. Remember to use transparencies for laser printer and not ink-jet printers. Those are not heat resistant and will damage you laser printer. Also 2 UV's decreases exposure time. The bath solution is not re-useable. So dispose of it, flush it down the toilet or the drain.

Now I have to go and prepare the next Chapter, Etching. As always, should you have any queries, leave me comments.

Next Part 4

Anis Puteri 2

2008-03-11T00:13:00.002+08:00

Anis Puteri 2 (formally Ali Baba) now has WiFi. It is WEP encrypted and the WEP key can be obtained from Azlan or Mir the new owners.

PCB Part 2 (Printing)

2008-03-06T10:27:00.010+08:00

Now that you have become familiarize with your PCB software, it time to learn about printing.

Before you print your foil pattern, let me tell you a little about the transfer method. You can use the toner transfer method or UV method. Since the toner transfer method is explained below, i will in detail tell you about the UV method.

Toner Transfer
The toner transfer method is done by using Inket Photo quality glossy paper.This method has been well illustrated by my good friend Basir (9W2BSR) and you can download his step by step guide on the toner transfer method. Reminder do not mirror the foil pattern.

Printing

Printing is done on tracing paper, the one used for plan printing, Set your Diptrace to mirror text only. Print the foil pattern only, selecting bottom layer from the print preview option. DO NOT MIRROR PCB FOIL PATTERN!

Or you can use Inkjet printer with transparency.

Next PCB Part 3

PCB part 1

2008-03-04T09:12:00.008+08:00

Road to making a Printed Circuit Board

Before teaching how to make your first PCB, I will first outline what the steps involved are to make a PCB. These steps will be broken down in different posting. If i post everything in one posting, there will be too much to read and you might get bored. :)

Schematics design.

Convert to PCB.

Printing Foil (PCB).
Transferring Foil to PCB.
Etching.
Drilling.
Soldering.

Some topics will expand into different sub topics.

1. Schematics design.

Before you even try to make a PCB, you first need software to draw the tracks. From what I noticed on the net, most people prefer to use Eagle. You can try it out, but I use Diptrace.

Though I like the Eagle's component database, they way to locate a component is much easier than in Diptrace, but that’s all I like about it. I feel Diptrace is easier to use. Give both a try and see which one suit you best. Eagle has a limitation of 4" x 3", double layer PCB, while Diptrace has 250 pins double layer limitation. I have a friend working in a publishing company, and does his foil design in Illustrator. If you like there even are templates available on the net for doing your foil patterns in Microsoft Paint. What is boils down, choose one that you are comfortable with. Whatever references I make will be to Diptrace. Or you can try others like TinyCad, Protel...

With either Diptrace or Eagle, you can draw your schematics. Then from your schematics you convert the can than play around with your components placement on the board for best routing of the traces. Or you can do manual routing.

If you get Diptrace, download the tutorial file. Go thru is and in no time you will be creating your own schematics, components and component pattern. It took me less than a day.

It is easier to start when you already have a project on mind. If you don’t have a project in mind, check the net for some simple projects, draw schematics in your software. Try playing around with component placement so that you don’t need jumpers. Sometimes jumpers are unavoidable, but for simple circuit there should not be any jumpers.

I think that should be enough for now. Next posts will cover PCB.

73's.

Next PCB Part 2

APRS

2008-03-02T19:47:00.003+08:00

What is APRS?

A brief explanation on what Automatic Position Reporting System is.

Some newer rigs like Kenwood’s TM-D700A or TM-D710A has built-in APRS. Essentially what APRS does is, it sends out a packet of information at a fixed interval. This informs other stations with APRS enable rigs, who you are (callsign) and where you are. It knows where your current QTH is via a GPS module (usually optional) in your rig. If you have a Garmin or Lowrance GPS with map display, then you can hook it up to your rig, and location of other APRS stations will be displayed on the map. APRS can also be used for triangulation and get weather information from satellites.

APRS can also be used in base-stations and portables that do not have APRS built-in. For this to work though, you need:-

Computer
Internet connection
Echolink
APRS software
APRS hardware

The software can be downloaded from www.uiview.org. There is extensive help/info on the website as well as setup guide to get your APRS up and running. UIVIEW is now maintained by JA1OGS (Art), who not long ago came to Malaysia and gave a talk on APRS. You should visit his website for more info. If you don’t want to download and have a notebook, you can leave me a comment and I will upload it to your notebook when we eyeball. Please ensure that your have at least 400MB for free space. Software includes, APRS software (UIVIEW32), documentation, APRS module schematics, and hex file, PCB design for a serial port PIC programmer and much more. Thought the software is free, to use it, registration is required and you must be a licensed HAM member to register it. To see APRS at work live, click here.

Download schematics and hex file for the APRS module. But you will need a PIC programmer to “burn” the hex code into the PIC microcontroller. See my previous article on homebrewing PIC programmer. Alternatively you could pass the PIC to me and I will burn it for you.

On a final note, exploring the web, I found an excellent documentation on APRS, It covers the history, basics and advance use of APRS, and It’s called APRS101. Leave me comment if you are interested to attend a workshop on APRS. The one day I will get 9W2AXE to organize it.

73’s.

Silent Key

2008-03-02T08:55:00.004+08:00

2nd March 2008
At 4:53am this morning I received a SMS from 9W2ALX, that his second baby, Seri Nur Farisya binti Muhammad Firdaus, passed away due to heart complications.Our deepest condolence to go to Alex and his wife. Inna-lillah-hi-wa-inna-illahi-raaj-jiun. Al-Fatihah.

New harmonic for 9W2ALX

2008-02-27T12:28:00.004+08:00

Today morning 27 Feb 08 at 9:03am a fellow ham members' XYL safely delivered their second harmonic. A YL they named Seri Nur Farisya binti Muhammad Firdaus. I would like to personally congratulate 9W2ALX (Alex) and his XYL for their new bundle of joy. You were targeting 29 Feb but i guess it didn't happen. :)

From
9W2GU

SWR

2008-02-24T00:43:00.025+08:00

What is VSWR or SWR?
VSWR is Voltage Standing Wave Ratio.
SWR is Standing Wave Ratio.

Fine! But you still don't understand what it is and does.
SWR meter checks how much power is transmitted by the antenna as compared to how much is transmitted by rig/radio, and how much is reflected back. This reverse/reflection of power can damage you rig if the loss is too great.This is known high SWR.

To put is simply, SWR is a way to check for loss of power. The best SWR is said to be 1.1:1 and anything from 3.0 and above (is the RED zone on the SWR meter) is potentially damaging. There are many factors contributing to high SWR. An untuned antenna, bad grounding, cables with high loss, wrong length cables...and many more.

How to get the best SWR?

You need to ensure your antenna mounting is not shorting, and placed in a appropriate location. The antenna itself must not make contact with any conductive materials.
Use a good quality cable and connectors. If you cannot solder the connectors on, get help from someone who knows how to do it.
Mount the antenna in the place you intend to use. Antenna at different location will give different reading.
DO NOT coil extra remaining cable.

Tune the SWR to the center frequency. Example, for 2 Meter, use 146MHz as center frequency. Before you start tuning your SWR, Check you cable for electrical shorts and broken connections. Though broken connection are rare in a cable, but bad soldering could result improper contact.

Cable Length

From my experience, it is best to use the coax in multiples of ¼, ½ or 1 wave length of the center frequency. For VHF 2M, the center frequency is 146MHz. This is derived for the 2M VHF of amateur allocation, 144 MHz – 148 MHz. 144, 145, 146, 147, 148. Now you can clearly see that 146 MHz is the center frequency.

So, coax of 1 wavelength = 300/146 which equals about 2.05 Meters. To get the optimum performance this value has to be multiplied with the coax velocity factor. If your coax has a velocity factor of 0.92, then coax of 1 wavelength = 2.05 * 0.92, which equals to 1.886 Meters. Now you know how long one wavelength of your coax is, you should cut it in multiples of 1.88 Meters or ¼ or ½ of that value.

Example, you need to use approximately 26 Meters of cable.

First, find out how many wavelengths that is.

26 Meters/1.88 = 13.82 wavelengths

13.82 wavelengths is not multiples of 1.88.

So you could use 14 wavelengths. This works out to be 26.23 Meters.

NOTE: The velocity factor used as example one. Below is a table of commonly used coax and velocity factor. For detail info please download the data sheet from you coax manufacture.

VF = Velocity Factor
CF = Center Frequency

CF = 146 MHz
Wavelength at CF = 2.05Meters

COAX	VF	VF x CF
RG-8	0.66	1.35
LMR-400	0.85	1.74
RG-11	0.75	1.54
RG-58	0.66	1.35
RG-213	0.66	1.35
RG-400	0.695	1.42

Testing Coax

Now that you have your coax ready with connectors soldered on both ends, it is time to test if there is an electrical short or open circuit. For this task you will need a multi-tester.

The outer braiding in the coax is called the ground (GND) and the inner core is the positive (+). The same is true for the connector, the outer part of the connector is the GND and the inner part is the positive (+).

Set the tester to Ωx1 or to the buzzer position.
Touch each end of the coax GND to the testers’ tip. Either the buzzer will sound or the indicator on the tester will move. This indicates that the coax GND is has connectivity.

Do the same for the positive part of the connector, the result should be same.

Finally test the GND and (+) for electrical short. This time, there should be no sound or activity from the tester. If there is, you need to rectify the problem before testing SWR. Most likely the soldering is bad.

Tuning SWR

There is a misconception that tuning SWR is tuning your antenna. The cable, mounting and other factors also play a role in tuning the SWR. SWR is affected by many factors and not just the antenna.

Mount the antenna at the place you intend to use it.

Connect the coax from the antenna port marked ANT on the SWR meter.

Connect the rig/radio to XMIT/Transmit port of the SWR meter. I suggest that this coax be at least ½ wavelength. Most people use ¼ wavelength and it tends to be too short, especially when testing in cars.

Turn on rig and in VFO mode set to 144MHz.

Set the meter to CAL (calibrate)

Press PTT and calibrate the meter.

Release the PTT and set the mode to REF (Reference/Reflected).

Press the PTT and make note of the reading.

Repeat this again wit 146 MHz and 148 MHz.

144 MHz is the lowest end if 2M band.

146 MHz is the center of 2M band.

148 MHz is the highest of 2M band.

If all goes well, there should be little or no movement on 146 MHz. SWR on 144 MHz and 148 MHz should be 2.0 or less. If above 2.0 then you need to check the antenna mounting, check the grounding of the mounting or maybe place the antenna in different location etc.

Some SWR meters have no switches and buttons, for more information on how to use and read the meters, please refer to your SWR meter manual or ask a fellow HAM for help. I use the Diamond SX-400 in my example.

Tuning Antenna

If SWR on 144 MHz is more than 148 MHz, you will need to lengthen your antenna. Especially for jalopies, this can be done by adding additional spring mounting. For base antennas refer to the length chart that comes with the antenna.

If SWR on 148 MHz is more than 144 MHz, your will need to trim your antenna. Refer to the cutting chart/length adjustment chart that comes with the antenna. Some antennas have a small Allen screw to adjust the length.

If SWR is above 3.0, check for electrical shorts, improper grounding, etc.

Factor that contribute to high SWR

Low quality coax has high loss.

Coax is too long.

Bad soldering.

Excess coax is coiled.

Antenna length not tuned according to length chart..

Little or no ground plane.

Location of antenna is not the best.

When testing SWR on jalopies, do in open area with doors shut.

Antenna mounting not grounded or shorting.

There are other factors too, but these are the most common ones.

I hope I have not made things too complicated for the newcomer. I could get more technical but I don’t want to. Best of luck tuning your SWR. If you need help, you could leave me a comment.

73s to you and all monitoring stations.

9W2GU.

If you have an questions, please leave your comments.

Cheras Eyeball

2008-02-21T00:25:00.002+08:00

TO : Friends of RKK / RKL / RUK and all HAM /SWL members.

The time has come for our next central region "HAM CENTRAL ROTATION EYEBALL". The cheras group lead by 9w2KNS , 9w2 EET, 9w2BGL and.9w2SEE cordially invites all HAM members and SWLs to CHERAS on 22 Feb at 9.30 PM RESTORAN AMEER EHSAN FOR Cheras eyeball. At last, there will be a GOGOPAL road show at the eyeball. They will be giving a talk on their GPS system and a demo of their product . Food will be served to members with special offers from the suppliers for their GPS products. Two location maps are attached above close up (micro) and overall view (Macro) for you to find the restaurant. Many Cheras members will be there so come and join us.

GPS Coordinated to Restoran Ameer Ehsan Cheras

LAT=3.129932 & LON=101.731912

Address :-

Restoran Ameer Ehsan Cheras

no 186, Jalan Mahkota, Cheras

Next to Maybank Taman Maluri

We hope to bring together all Amateur radio members.

I would like to thank the Cheras group for organising this eyeball and gogopal road show.

73 TO ALL

9W2AXE

Please forward this email to other HAMs who might be interested.

(Kindly email to 9w2axe@gmail.com if you want to add your friends to my mailing list.)

QSP 9W2AXE

PIC Burners

2008-02-16T23:58:00.012+08:00

Of course, before you start building a program, you'll need to store it into a PIC chip. To do that you will need a PIC programmer. You can buy commercial ones, or build your own. I personally get the satisfaction build my own and even more so when it works. :) I have a :-

JDM2

Schematics (GIF/Eagle)

Feng3

Schematics (GIF/Eagle)

Feng3 modified with ICSP

Schematics

PICKit2 OEM

All the above mentioned except the PICKit2 use the PC's serial port to program the chip. The PICKit2 uses the USB port.

The PICKit2 I purchased came with a ICSP/ICD port only and not a ZIF socket or any socket to program the chip. So based on the Feng3 design I made a ZIF socket to program the chip and also included an ICSP port.

The schematics for my version of Feng3 and the PICKit2 ZIF available from download section.

Available from the sidebar under the heading :

Downloadz--PIC programmers

Which takes me to development of the PCB. The fun stuff. But that for another day.

PIC

2008-02-14T09:45:00.001+08:00

For those interested in PIC programming i recommend MikroE's C or Basic. Whichever programming language you comfortable with. If you have not program before, i suggest you try out both C and Basic. MikroE compilers are free, for code up 2K of hex code.

For even lower level, then download Microchip's MPLAB IDE. It free and assembly compiler.

Learning to program is beyond the scope of this blog. There is lots of site out there that can inform you on how to get started. I suggest that you download the help files and go thru the the examples given with these compilers. But I will from time to time post some programming tips.

RAE 2007-2

2008-02-10T15:15:00.000+08:00

MCMC announced the RAE 2007-2 results on late Jan.
Download and view the PDF file to check and see if you got thru.

Best of luck..
73's.