last modified: October 23, 2025
Posted on 2019-04-14— Common, Software
I created a readable, fully inline AES‑256/CBC implementation you can drop into C++ projects — handy for embedded systems. It avoids static S‑Boxes, needs only stdint/cstddef, and is MIT‑licensed on GitHub. If this sounds useful, read the full post for requirements, example code, and usage notes.
Posted on 2018-10-29— Common
I recently received sensor-array PCBs from PCBWay and was pleasantly surprised by the build quality for the low price. The green solder mask, smooth routing, 0.2mm traces and lead-free HAL finish stood out. Read the full post for photos, cost breakdown and shipping details if you're curious.
Posted on 2018-02-26— Common
I just received the PCBite Kit 2.0 from Sensepeek and explored its mirror board, magnetic pogo-style probes, and PCB holder. I found the gold needle tips and crown forks helpful for accessing tiny pads without test points. If you work on soldering or circuit analysis, read on for my hands-on impressions.
Posted on 2018-02-23— Common
I’m looking for a reliable step-up converter to make 5V from a 2.5–5.5V input to run sensors, motors and small heaters. I tested the XC9142B50DMR-G and hit thermal and shutdown issues (no load disconnect). Please read the full post and share any replacement suggestions or questions.
Posted on 2018-02-21— Common
I just received the Adafruit PCB coaster and was pleasantly surprised—photos don't do it justice. Made from 2.4mm FR4 with a transparent solder mask and black silkscreen, it blends cold and copper tones nicely. Read on for my quick impressions and close-up photos.
Posted on 2017-11-12— Common
I share a quick video of the snowflake assembly, showing the LED-side assembly with hot-air soldering. The build went smoothly overall, though some excess solder left a few LEDs slightly raised. If you're curious about the process and tips, I invite you to watch the full post and video.
Posted on 2017-11-01— Common
I received five-snowflake PCB panels from Eurocircuits and was quietly impressed by their quality. The tiny 0.15 mm decorative lines, white solder mask, precise milling and tented 0.25 mm vias created real production challenges. I’m pleased with the result — please read the full post for photos and details.
Posted on 2017-10-14— Common
I recently received PCBWay boards for a small power-converter project and was pleased with the result. I liked the wide choice of solder-mask colors (including white) and the fast, affordable service. If you’re considering a low-cost prototype run, read on for photos and my short impressions.
Posted on 2017-08-23— Common, Projects
I finally published all design files and documentation for my plant watering sensor project. The package includes PCB layouts and firmware, but this is an advanced build: it needs SMD reflow, Atmel Studio and an Atmel-ICE programmer. If you're interested, please read the full post and the GitHub repo for details.
Posted on 2017-04-04— Common, Projects
I tried mixing epoxy in a plastic cup and caused a small meltdown — a useful reminder about heat, cure times, and containment. I share what went wrong, safety and cleanup tips, and practical fixes to help you avoid the same mistakes. Read the full post for step-by-step guidance.
Posted on 2017-03-20— Common
I ordered a single test panel for my plant-watering sensor and was pleasantly surprised to receive three gold, perfectly made panels from Eurocircuits. Their registration holes make stencil alignment easy. I share photos and brief notes here—please read the full post to see the details and next parts of the series.
Posted on 2017-03-20— Common, Review
I bought a Weller WT solder station and appreciate its lightweight pencil, fast heating, and thoughtful features. Still, two persistent problems — a tip retainer that unscrews and one that deforms — reduced usability. I describe the issues, my contact with Weller, and the eventual retainer fix; read the full post for details.
Posted on 2017-03-06— Common
I use Autodesk EAGLE regularly and, while I appreciate parts of it, I ran into 12 recurring issues that waste time and hinder workflow. In this article I explain each problem and suggest improvements. If you use EAGLE, please read on — I hope it helps.
Posted on 2017-01-13— Common
I finished a small series of the PissOff project and noted practical lessons. I’ll use a stencil and solder paste next time, tried a larger speaker for better sound, and solved SD-card contact and flux-trimmer issues. Please read the full post for details and tips.
Posted on 2016-10-02— Common
I made a short video showing how I soldered Boldport's Touchy, an SMD board with a tricky chip. I admit I had a loose soldering tip early on and share what I learned. If you're interested, please watch the full video and check the board photos in the post.
Posted on 2016-09-21— Common
I tried soldering the Boldport Tap again, adapting Saar's Boldport technique to improve the finish. I carefully flush-cut wires, added solder until a small rounded dome formed, and filled component-side holes for a smooth transition. I used lead solder for shiny domes this time; read the full post for photos and details.
Posted on 2016-09-20— Common
I made a short video soldering the Boldport Project "Tap" and testing the PCBite PCB holder. I walk through the key steps, tool setup, and positioning tips so you can see how the holder performs. If you're curious, watch the full clip and follow along with the post.
Posted on 2016-09-16— Common, Recommendations
I recently tried PCBite, a compact magnetic PCB holder with a mirrored base and adjustable posts. It makes soldering and inspection easier than my old helping-hands. I share close-up photos, usage notes, and where to buy a set—please read on if you’re curious about a simple, solid solution.
Posted on 2016-08-24— Common
I walk through the errors I made moving from prototype to the first PCB — wrong values, unconnected copper pours, inaccessible pads, pin misassignments and spacing issues. I share practical fixes and prevention tips so you can avoid the same traps; read the full post for the complete checklist and examples.
Posted on 2016-05-22— Common
I filmed a short demonstration video that shows all 50 modes of my table light so you can see how each effect looks in real life. It won't replace hands-on use, but it's a useful first impression—watch the video and try adding your own colors and effects.