Oliver Smith

Oliver is an experienced electronics engineer skilled in PCB design, analog circuits, embedded systems, and prototyping. His deep knowledge spans schematic capture, firmware coding, simulation, layout, testing, and troubleshooting. Oliver excels at taking projects from concept to mass production using his electrical design talents and mechanical aptitude.

Which soldering iron tip should I use?

All of the soldering I've done to this point has been with through-hole components. I hope to move up to…

1 year ago

What is an average CPH speed for hand SMD assembly?

What would be the average speed of assembling surface mount components on to a PCB for an experienced person? Assuming…

1 year ago

What will go wrong when it is stored at a higher temperature or past its shelf life?

Solder paste should be stored in a refrigerator and it has an expiration date. But what exactly will go wrong…

1 year ago

How much clearance should you include in through-hole components holes?

Is there a general rule as to how much clearance you should add to through-hole components' holes to allow them…

1 year ago

Is there a reason an 0805 resistor would have a different land pattern than an 0805 capacitor?

My PCB design software comes with some libraries that include some common components, like chip resistors and capacitors. I have…

1 year ago

What is the difference between sensor gl5516 and gl5506?

I am thinking which type of light dependent resistor photoresistor LDR is better. gl5516 or 5506 sensor? Can anyone brief…

1 year ago

Is there any problems if I change 0805 too 0402 surface mount or smaller?

In order to reduce the size of a PCB, I will probably have to use smaller SM components. I currently…

1 year ago

Is using a via to strengthen surface mount connector on the pad a good or bad practice?

I believe I have heard of putting a plugged via right next to a mechanical pad so that the board…

1 year ago

Do you use SMT or THT for USB mini B connector?

This question is about the advisability of continuing to use a USB mini-B right angle surface mount connector in my…

1 year ago

How can I solder an SMD component with a pad on the bottom?

I am getting a PCB manufactured for a project that I am working on. One of the parts, the A4950…

1 year ago