MEP EP#246: Doing Something Magical

Show Notes

MEP EP#246: Doing Something Magical

Parker

• Physicists build circuit that generates clean, limitless power from graphene
  • University of Arkansas physicists
  • Energy harvesting the thermal motion of graphene
  • Without getting all quantum about it, it seems to work by configuring the graphene as one electrode (or both) of a capacitor. As the graphene flaps in the breeze (actually Brownian motion, I assume), the changing geometry will change the capacitance.
  • The team's next objective is to determine if the DC current can be stored in a capacitor for later use
  • Youtube video

Stephen

• New test equipment design - picking the right opamp
  • Current sensing with a bit of a twist
  • Powered by +/-12V
  • Need to read current on the +12 and the -12 along with a +9V rail
  • Opamp needs to be capable of reading a voltage drop in an environment where the common mode voltage is at or near the opamp supply voltage
  • Current sense amplifiers
  • INA1x9 series amplifiers from TI
    • Supply and common mode range are independent of each other
    • 2.7v to 60v
  • Convert a voltage to a current then change the gain by selecting an appropriate load
• Iphone 12 doesn’t come with a charger?
  • Are chargers necessary?
  • Don't we have like 300 of them lying around?
  • Apple states environmental reasons for dropping the charger
  • Also no earbuds
  • Examples of other products that lack the equipment necessary to function
    • Video game consoles?
    • Appliances?
    • Internet router?

Creators & Guests

Host

Parker Dillmann

A Founder @MacroFab.Builds Electronics, Cars, & Jeeps.

Host

Stephen Kraig

EE

Producer

Chris Martin

What is Circuit Break - A MacroFab Podcast?

Dive into the electrifying world of electrical engineering with Circuit Break, a MacroFab podcast hosted by Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig. This dynamic duo, armed with practical experience and a palpable passion for tech, explores the latest innovations, industry news, and practical challenges in the field. From DIY project hurdles to deep dives with industry experts, Parker and Stephen's real-world insights provide an engaging learning experience that bridges theory and practice for engineers at any stage of their career.

Whether you're a student eager to grasp what the job market seeks, or an engineer keen to stay ahead in the fast-paced tech world, Circuit Break is your go-to. The hosts, alongside a vibrant community of engineers, makers, and leaders, dissect product evolutions, demystify the journey of tech from lab to market, and reverse engineer the processes behind groundbreaking advancements. Their candid discussions not only enlighten but also inspire listeners to explore the limitless possibilities within electrical engineering.

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About the hosts: Parker, an expert in Embedded System Design and DSP, and Stephen, an aficionado of audio electronics and brewing tech, bring a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the show. Their backgrounds in engineering and hands-on projects make each episode a blend of expertise, enthusiasm, and practical advice.

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