Regulars
A summary of this month’s contents.
Programmable GPS-synced Frequency Reference (Part 1)
This advanced lab-standard frequency reference is an ideal companion for frequency counters, oscilloscopes and spectrum analysers in the test lab. It is synchronised to the 1pps signal derived from a GPS module and has three BNC outputs with programmable frequencies from 1Hz – to 100MHz.
The main oscillator is housed in a high stability temperature-controlled oven and its accuracy is around ±100ppb after 30 minutes. The design is based on a Micromite BackPack and has a colour touchscreen. In Part 1 this month, principles of operation are described.
Surface mount design needs good soldering skills
Digital Command Control programmer for Decoders
Digital Command Control (DCC) is a widely-used method for controlling model railways, especially when operating several locomotives on the same track.
This DCC programmer is simple, cheap and easy to build using a handful of discrete components. It is based on an Arduino MCU with a custom shield, and operates from a computer USB port. The shield is compatible with open-source DCC++ Arduino software and it offers several more desirable options for programming features that will appeal to the model railway enthusiast. Our article also describes how DCC works.
Source code file 1019.zip (2.1MB)
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.