VoltJots

Issue 9

WELCOME

Welcome to the latest edition of the VoltJots newsletter, providing you hand-curated links to the very best articles, tutorials, and sites to help you get your regular electronics fix.

Don’t forget, if you like this newsletter, tell your friends and family about it.

This issue brings you an exciting mix of projects and cutting-edge innovations. Get hands-on by building a retro gaming console or an open-source energy meter, while also exploring advanced topics like AI on microcontrollers and soft robotics with flexible electronics. Plus, discover new tools like the Arduino Alvik Robot and LilyGO's affordable LoRa development board.

The Raspberry Pi's RP2350-E9 chip has an erratum that could affect your projects, particularly in audio applications and peripheral compatibility. Read all the details on the issue, potential workarounds, and what to keep in mind when using this chip in your designs.

Explore the top 10 IoT use cases shaping various industries, from smart cities to healthcare innovations. These examples highlight how IoT technology enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and improves the overall quality of life.

Mouser and Altium have teamed up to create a PCB design college aimed at enhancing engineering education and skills in the electronics sector. The initiative focuses on offering practical resources and training in PCB design to better prepare students and professionals for real-world challenges.

The latest TIOBE Index shows Python holding the top spot as the most popular programming language, reflecting its growing dominance in the tech world. Meanwhile, C has been surpassed by C++, indicating a shift in developer preferences and trends.

Rust programming language gets a boost with successful ports to ARM and RISC-V architectures, specifically targeting the Raspberry Pi RP2040 chip. This development enhances the performance and flexibility for developers working on embedded systems using these platforms.

Researchers have developed advanced 3D micro strain gauges that offer high sensitivity and can monitor mechanical pressure in real-time. These tiny sensors enhance the performance of materials and devices across various applications, from infrastructure to biomedical fields.

ROHM has rolled out a new power supply architecture called LogiCA, which merges digital and analog control for enhanced performance. This innovative design aims to improve efficiency and adaptability in power management applications.

Create a handheld retro gaming console that offers local wireless connectivity using a Raspberry Pi and other accessible components. The guide provides step-by-step instructions and tips for assembling the device, allowing you to enjoy classic games on the go.

Here's an open-source DC energy meter project that lets you monitor your energy usage remotely using the Blynk Cloud platform, giving you real-time data right on your smartphone. It combines easy-to-find components and straightforward instructions, making it accessible for DIY enthusiasts who want to enhance their energy management.

Discover how a few optimizations are enabling microcontrollers to run large language models, unlocking AI-powered capabilities on these tiny, resource-limited devices.

A dad creates an NFC movie library to help his kids easily access and enjoy their favorite films. He shares the process and tech behind building this cool setup, making it fun and straightforward for parents looking to do something similar.

Build a smart IoT car that you can control with your smartphone using basic components like a microcontroller and a motor driver. The guide provides a straightforward process for assembling the car and setting up the necessary software, making it a fun project for beginners.

The Arduino Alvik Robot offers a versatile platform for learning robotics and programming in a fun way. It comes with various pre-installed sensors and modules, enabling users to easily build and customize their own robotic projects.

LilyGO just dropped their budget-friendly T3 S3 LR1121 development board, priced under $25, featuring the powerful ESP32-S3 chip along with integrated LoRa capabilities. This compact board aims to boost IoT projects with its versatility and strong connectivity options.

The Adafruit QT Py CH32V203 is a compact and powerful microcontroller that comes loaded with features for easy customization and project development. With its flexible IO options and compatibility with CircuitPython, it’s perfect for anyone looking to create fun and interactive electronic projects.

Sonocotta’s Espressif ESP32-powered Esparagus audio streamers now support the Echoes feature, enhancing audio streaming capabilities, and allowing users to enjoy synchronized audio playback across multiple devices.

High-bandwidth current sensors offer a compact solution that helps reduce costs while maximizing efficiency in electronic designs. These sensors enable better performance in applications requiring precise current measurements without taking up much space.

Researchers are exploring the integration of soft robotics and flexible electronics to create more adaptable and capable robotic systems. This technology could revolutionize various fields, including medical devices and prosthetics, by allowing robots to mimic the dexterity and compliance of biological organisms.

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin are using wearable sensors to study daily walking patterns in order to understand and reduce the risk of tripping. Their innovative work aims to improve mobility and safety, particularly for older adults, by gathering real-world data on walking behaviors.

Edge AI is paving the way for smarter embedded systems by processing data closer to where it’s generated, reducing latency and bandwidth issues. This technology enhances real-time decision-making in various applications, from autonomous vehicles to smart appliances, making AI more efficient and practical.

September 2024

IFA Berlin

Location: Berlin, Germany

Time: September 6-10, 2024

Description: IFA Berlin is a leading trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances, showcasing the latest products and innovations.

Solar Power International (SPI)

Location: California, USA

Time: September 9-12, 2024

Description: Focuses on the solar energy industry, including solar electronics and photovoltaic technology.

International Conference on Quantum Technologies (ICQT)

Location: Berlin

Time: September 10-12, 2024

Description: Focuses on quantum technologies, including quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing.

International Conference on Electrical Engineering and Electronics (ICEEE)

Location: Melbourne, Australia

Time: September 11-12, 2024

Description: Focuses on electrical engineering and electronics, including power systems, signal processing, and communication.

electronica India

Location: Uttar Pradesh, India

Time: September 11-13, 2024

Description: A key trade show in the Indian electronics industry, electronica India covers components, systems, applications, and more.

China International Optoelectronic Exposition (CIOE)

Location: Shenzhen, China

Time: September 11-13, 2024

Description: Focuses on optoelectronic technologies, including optical communications, precision optics, and photonics.

PowerUP 2024

Location: Milan, Italy

Time: September. 18–19, 2024

Description: PowerUP 2024 is bringing the latest developments in power electronics engineering and renewable energy, debated by global industry leaders across keynotes, panels, and technical talks.

LED China

Location: Shanghai, China

Time: September 19-21, 2024

Description: Focuses on LED and LED lighting, displaying the latest products and technologies in the industry.

European Microwave Week (EuMW)

Location: Paris, France

Time: September 22-27, 2024

Description: A premier event for microwave, RF, wireless, and radar technologies, featuring conferences and an exhibition.

ECOC (European Conference on Optical Communication)

Location: Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Time: September 23-25, 2024

Description: ECOC is a major conference and exhibition for the optical communication industry, featuring the latest in fiber optics and photonics.

European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition (EU PVSEC)

Location: Vienna, Austria

Time: September 23-27, 2024

Description: A leading event for the global solar PV sector, covering the latest research and developments in photovoltaic technology.

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