Time Domain Reflectometer - TDR for Metal Cable: Operating principles

The reflectometer measures the reflection of a signal. This method for cable damage detection complements all the others we've previously discussed and, in some cases, gives more accurate results, especially when locating wire entanglements or breaks and looking for non-persistent faults. Furthermore, it allows one to clearly identify several individual problems when they interfere with each other, as well as determine the range of each one of them.

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HDMI extender over optical fiber

HDMI extenders can connect with an optical fiber cable if the distance between video equipment exceeds 400 feet. This post describes this method in detail.

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DIY 4-bit CPU

Have you ever made a processor? I did. Took me just 12 microchips and a clock generator. The processor can execute several commands, and programs can be written for it. The program code and input data are entered using micro switches, and the state of the output register is displayed by four LEDs, according to the number of bits.

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HDMI KVM switcher 4-to-1 INRIKS SW4041KVM

Sometimes, a case exists for using multiple computers from a single desk. Sure, buying several sets of keyboards and mice is always easier. Still, it's smarter to use a specially designed unit, a KVM switch like the one we have here, the INRIKS SW4041KVM.

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Pulser fault locators: operation principle and technology for cable troubleshooting

What defects can the device detect? How does localization work? Lifehacks

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DIY legendary op-amp Big Muff

The fuzz effect's history began the same day the history of rock 'n' roll began. Today, we will study the circuit and history of the pedal, which is copied and improved by dozens, if not hundreds of companies and masters. And, of course, we will build and listen to our copy.

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Lies in HDMI specifications

Five oft-used promises/statements made by HDMI device manufacturers. We take a look at them with a tech-savvy eye and find the truth.

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DIY Dumble-like sounding MOSFET Overdrive

The Hermida Zendrive guitar pedal we will study, assemble and listen to today is a true masterpiece. Many say its sound is close to the Holy Grail of guitar amplification - Dumble Overdrive Special.

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Measurement bridges: results interpretation

How to work with real cables? Important rules for cable branches

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USB 2.0 Twisted Pair Extender

What if you need to extend a USB 2.0 interface over a long distance? How do you connect a webcam, speakerphone, or other equipment remotely?

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Transmitting HDMI USB and HDMI KVM signals over twisted pair cable. What is the difference?

Both device types have HDMI in/out and USB ports on the housing. But the functionality, purpose, and price of these devices are different. Let's take a look at these differences.

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DIY old-school electronic clock

An electronic clock without a microcontroller is a circuitry masterpiece that can be looked at forever! Today we continue to explore the practical possibilities of pure logic.

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AC/DC Bridges for measurement, Wheatstone bridge

When servicing metal cable lines, measuring bridges are most commonly used. They are accurate in a wide range of measured values, with compensation of extraneous influences, and inexpensive.

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How does logic work? Flip-flop

Nowadays, homemade electronic products on microcontrollers are trendy. I am even more interested in assembling different devices with simple logic circuits. Their operating principle is more visual, which gives me aesthetic pleasure. Today we are going to show you four simple devices. Three of them are based on flip-flops, and the fourth one, which we will start with, could use a flip-flop.

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4K60Hz twisted pair HDMI extender with ARC function

The ARC (Audio Return Channel) function in HDMI has helped to remove unnecessary communication between TV and AV receiver, soundbar, or home theater. What does the ARC feature mean for twisted-pair HDMI extenders, and how can you use it?

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Symmetrical cable's electrical characteristics: asymmetry

What is the difference between an ideal symmetrical (balanced) cable and an actual cable? What is asymmetry (imbalance) in a symmetrical (balanced) cable? Asymmetry (unbalanced) and its parameters.

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Shelly RGBW2 controller and Shelly Duo RGBW bulb. Dangerous light pulsations.

I found dangerous light pulsations with the Shelly RGBW2 LED controller and the Shelly Duo RGBW GU10 bulbs. I studied this feature and compared my experimental results with current requirements and recommendations.

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HDMI switch and multi-viewer switcher. Should I buy a more functional device right away?

What do you need an HDMI switch and a multiswitch for? What are the differences between them? What disadvantages do low-cost devices have?

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Teardown Mean Well LRS-35-24 LED driver

Teardown/test of a power supply from a well-known manufacturer. Manufacturing quality, circuitry, output voltage quality, waveforms.

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