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Bypass capacitor basics
A bypass capacitor (aka “filter cap”) is a small capacitor that dampens electrical noise moving toward an IC. Electrical noise can cause circuit malfunctions. Unless otherwise specified in the data sheet of an IC, a 0.1 µF non-polarized ceramic capacitor usually makes a good bypass capacitor.
Capacitive Sensing Links
- Capacitive Sensing for Dummies
- Capacitive Sensing with Op-Amps
- Capacitive Sensing for Human Interfaces to Electronics
- Frequency to Voltage Circuits
- Circuits and Techniques for Implementing Capacitive Touch Sensing
- Analog Devices Capacitance Sensors
- Capacitance-to-Digital Converter Facilitates Level Sensing in Diagnostic Systems
Connectors 101
What is a connector?
A connector is an electrical component that links two or more components together. The major types of connectors are:
DC Motors 101
Watch the video mini-lecture on DC motor control from Dr. Jordan
What types of DC motors are most common?
- Brushed DC motors. Current flowing in one direction makes the motor turn one direction, and current flowing in the opposite direction makes the motor turn the opposite direction.
- Stepper motors - provide absolute position control but require a special controller IC
- Servo motors - PWM signal controls the position of the motor
How do I connect a brushed DC motor to a microcontroller?
DC motors are inductive loads and therefore cannot be directly connected to a microcontroller without damaging the microcontroller. There are two protection mechanisms that go into a successful motor interface:
Fuses 101
What are fuses and when do I need them?
A fuse is an electronic component that protects a circuit by creating an open circuit if it draws too much current. **Fuses do not protect against voltages that are too high. **
How to Add Solar to Your Circuit
Adding solar to a project has a few more steps then just hard wiring a solar panel. Solar panels fluctuate with power delivery to a system. To combat this, solar panels often charge a power cell or battery. This battery provides constant power to your project .
Level shifters
Introduction: What is a level shifter?
A level shifter either shifts the voltage of a data line up or down depending on what your circuit entails.
MOSFET for use with a 3.3V and 5V Microcontroller
Selecting the MOSFET
When selecting a MOSFET for either 3.3V or 5V applications there are three parameters to consider.
