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.
From where can I source parts?
Once you know the types of components that you need for your project, the next step is to find sources/vendors from which you can purchase the components (also known as sourcing parts). Follow the process below to source parts:
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. **
Sources for Electrical and Electromechanical Components
Professional Distributors
These distributors are often used by professionals in industry, and provide the most complete selection of different parts.
Sources for Mechanical Components
General
- Berg
- Grainger (* ASU Preferred Supplier)
- McMaster-Carr
- Miki Pulley
- MSC Industrial (* ASU Preferred Supplier)
- Motor System Parts from Radical RC
- Stock Drive Products
Bearings
- igus - plastic bushings, bearings, linear guides, and cable carriers. Samples.
- Kaydon Slewing Bearings
- NSK Motion and Control
- VXB Ball Bearings
Couplings
Gears
Springs
Strategies for using 0 Ohm Resistors
Why use 0 ohm Resistors in a design?
0 ohm resistors act as a through hole jumper wire on manufactured PCBs. Also known as “jumper chips’’ or"jumper leads”, 0 ohm resistors can be substituted for vias to cross over line traces. This is useful for PCBs that have many vias already and PCBs that want to avoid vias altogether. In the PCB industry, using 0 ohm resistors over jumper wires in the design process allows one less specialized tool when assembling the PCB. It is cheaper and more practical to install a jump lead using readily available resistor placing machines over having a separate machine for just placing jumper wires.
