The DC/DC Converter part I’m planning to use with my FAB1215 module is out of stock, and even if it comes back in stock, the supply quantity is so low… Mouser doesn’t keep a big inventory of this part because they said demand is low. Soooo, I can’t depend on this part being available for my customers, so I decided to roll my own DC/DC converter for +/-15V output.

Making the 12VDC to +15V output was easy, and initial breadboard testing showed it can deliver up to 370mA and more (up to 500mA). But making the 12V to -15V Inverter was a bit more problematic. The best I can squeeze out of it is -150mA, and only at 58% efficiency.  The good news is I think that should be enough for 1 or 2 channels for a V- rail.  The V+ rail will need to power additional LEDs and Relays so I want the V+ to have a higher current rating anyway. So I think we’re good.

Continue Reading…

Received our FAB6010 PCB prototype. Yes, it’s green soldermask, not the purple ones you usually see in my other FAB modules prototype. But the final color will be RED to go with our FAB color scheme.

I populated one of the boards I received. Since I do not have a Reverse Log Bourns Potentiometer, I just used a Linear 10K pot for this prototype. This means, the controls are “reversed.” When the pot is turned fully clockwise, it’s the MINIMUM setting, and when it’s turned fully counter-clockwise, it’s the MAXIMUM setting.

There are (4) LED-lighted pushbuttons on the board. Resistor values of 3K3 work well with the Green and Blue LED switches, but makes the Yellow LED too bright. I’ll need to replace the resistor with 10K for the Yellow LED to make all the lamps even in brightness.

Continue Reading…

We now sell a 6″ long Female-to-Female Ribbon Cable for use with FABModules. Click here to BUY a ready-made cable.

This 10-pin ribbon cable is required to connect the Power Supply FAB1215 to your FAB Module setup. If you’re using a FAB-to-Cable crossover adapter (FAB9001), you’ll also need this cable.

Step 1:  Cut your cable 7.5″ long.  Position cable as shown below, then crimp the connector. You can use an adjustable jaw pliers. I suggest wrapping the plastic connectors with cloth/rag to protect it before using the pliers.

Continue Reading…

Continue Reading…