EP#71: Wrong Variants

In this episode of Circuit Break, Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig, along with special guests Chris Gammell and James Lewis, discuss various aspects of engineering career paths. They delve into how they chose engineering, their first jobs, reasons for changing jobs, and what being an engineer means at different career stages. They also reflect on what they wish they had known earlier in their careers and share some personal anecdotes about non-engineering jobs they've held. The discussion is rich with insights and advice for both new and experienced engineers.Key Discussion Points:How the hosts and guests chose engineering as a career.The impact of their first jobs out of school.Good and bad reasons to change jobs.The role of mentorship and learning from senior engineers.Reflections on imposter syndrome and its effects.The importance of prioritizing tasks and learning to say no.Career transitions and the challenges faced.The influence of non-engineering jobs on their engineering careers.Advice on surrounding oneself with smart engineers.Experiences of working in different engineering roles and industries.The significance of having a plan and being open to change.The role of personality in learning from colleagues.Predictions and aspirations for the next five years.Thoughts on the evolving nature of electronics and engineering careers.Relevant Links:AddOhms YouTube ChannelHackster.ioThe Amp Hour PodcastGoliothCommunity Questions:What are your thoughts on changing jobs for career growth?How do you handle imposter syndrome in your engineering career?What non-engineering job have you had that influenced your engineering career the most?Where do you see your engineering career in the next five years?MacroFab:This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing, and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.We Want to Hear From You!Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

14 Juni 20241h 8min

In this episode, Parker and Stephen dive into the intricacies of capacitor selection, discussing various types of capacitors, their properties, and how different factors affect their performance. They also touch on the new custom bare PCB service offered by MacroFab. The episode is rich with technical details, tips for selecting capacitors, and practical advice for engineers.Key Discussion Points:Introduction to the new custom bare PCB service by MacroFabDetailed explanation of capacitor types: Class 1 and Class 2Importance of voltage coefficient of capacitance (VCC)Challenges in selecting capacitors for different applicationsComparison between different capacitor sizes and their effectsTips for avoiding edge cases in capacitor selectionExplanation of how barium titanate affects capacitor performanceMurata's Sim Surfing tool for capacitor dataImpact of capacitor choice on manufacturing and performanceBest practices for selecting capacitors in design projectsRelevant Links:MacroFab Custom PCBsEpisode 141 - It Depends - An In Depth Look at MLCCs with James LewisMurata Sim SurfingCommunity Questions:What are your thoughts on the voltage coefficient of capacitance (VCC) and its impact on capacitor selection?How do you handle the challenges of selecting capacitors for your projects?Have you used Murata's Sim Surfing tool for capacitor data? If so, how has it helped you?MacroFab:This show is brought to you by MacroFab, hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.We Want to Hear From You!Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

7 Juni 202446min

In this episode of Circuit Break, Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig welcome Urban Bruhin, the creator of LibrePCB, an open-source EDA tool. Urban shares his journey from being an electrical engineer to developing LibrePCB, driven by his dissatisfaction with existing EDA tools like Eagle. The discussion covers the unique features of LibrePCB, the challenges faced during its development, and the design philosophy behind its advanced library concept. Urban also discusses the future of LibrePCB and how the community can contribute to its growth.Key Discussion PointsUrban Bruhin's background and inspiration for creating LibrePCB.The challenges faced during the development of LibrePCB.The unique features of LibrePCB, including its advanced library concept and order feature.How LibrePCB handles DRC and multi-user collaboration.The future of LibrePCB and upcoming features.Ways to contribute to and support LibrePCB.Relevant LinksLibrePCB Official WebsiteCommunity QuestionsWhat are your thoughts on the advanced library concept in LibrePCB?How do you see open-source EDA tools impacting the future of PCB design?What features do you think are essential in an EDA tool for professional use?MacroFabThis show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.We Want to Hear From You!Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

31 Maj 202454min

In this episode of Circuit Break, Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig discuss the recent increase in semiconductor tariffs and its impact on the electronics industry. Parker shares insights from his latest article analyzing how these tariffs affect bill of materials costs. The hosts also dive into a compelling news story about ASML and TSMC's ability to disable chip machines remotely in the event of geopolitical conflicts, particularly if China invades Taiwan. They explore the ethical implications and security concerns surrounding this capability. Personal project updates include Parker's work on Python scripting to automate data extraction from invoices.News/AnnouncementsRecent increase in semiconductor tariffs and its potential impact on bill of materials costs.ASML and TSMC's ability to remotely disable chip machines in case of geopolitical conflicts.Key Discussion PointsAnalysis of the new semiconductor tariffs and their impact on BOM costs.Breakdown of HTS codes and country of origin data for electronic components.Discussion on engineers’ shifting component choices to avoid tariffs.Insights into historical trends in component pricing and sourcing.ASML and TSMC’s ability to remotely disable chip machines in case of geopolitical conflicts.Ethical and security implications of remote shutdown capabilities.Speculative discussion on backdoors and right to repair in the context of high-tech manufacturing equipment.Personal project updates: Python scripting for data extraction and automation.Relevant LinksParker's Article on Semiconductor TariffsASML and TSMC NewsCommunity QuestionsWhat are your thoughts on the ethical implications of remotely disabling manufacturing equipment in other countries?How do you see the impact of the increased semiconductor tariffs affecting your projects or business?Have you noticed any trends in component pricing or sourcing that have influenced your engineering decisions?MacroFabThis show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.We Want to Hear From You!Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

24 Maj 202459min

SummaryIn this episode, Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig delve into the fascinating world of time modulation, discussing recent advancements in capacitor technology. They explore a new dielectric structure made from barium titanate and its potential impact on energy density and efficiency. The hosts also discuss the implications of new tariffs on semiconductors and other goods from China. Additionally, they touch on new developments from the Raspberry Pi Foundation and share updates on Parker's personal projects, including his work on a 1965 Checker Marathon engine.News/AnnouncementsNew tariffs announced by the U.S. government: 50% on semiconductors, 25% on steel and aluminum, 100% on EVs, and 50% on solar panels from China.The Raspberry Pi Foundation announced an M.2 hat for the Raspberry Pi.Key Discussion PointsTime modulation in capacitors and the new dielectric structure using barium titanate.The concept of heterojunctions and homojunctions in semiconductors.Efficiency improvements in capacitors and their potential applications.The practical implications and future prospects of new capacitor technology.Discussion on AI-generated content and the dead internet theory.New tariffs on semiconductors and other goods from China and their potential impact.The Raspberry Pi Foundation's new M.2 hat and its benefits for storage solutions.Parker's personal project updates, including the digital control upgrade for a 1965 Checker Marathon engine.The use of flatbed scanners for reverse engineering enclosures and components.The potential future of neural interfaces and their ethical implications.Relevant LinksHigh energy density in artificial heterostructures through relaxation time modulationChina's Share of Global Chip SalesRaspberry Pi Foundation M.2 hat announcementMegaSquirt 3 EFI ControllerDead Internet TheoryFlatbed scanner reverse engineering tutorialCommunity QuestionsWould you be willing to integrate a smartphone into your body if it was 100% safe and reversible?Have you used a flatbed scanner for any unique engineering applications?What are your thoughts on the new semiconductor tariffs? How do you think it will impact the industry?

17 Maj 202453min

Summary:In this episode, Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig delve into the hefty topic of U.S. funding for 'digital twin' chips research under the CHIPS Act, comparing its budget to other big expenditures like Boeing's Starliner and military budgets. They also discuss EDA tool pricing, breaking down costs from freeware to industry heavyweights, and the implications for small vs. large businesses. Additionally, Parker shares his personal project update on his first KiCad PCB.Key Discussion Points:Introduction to the topic of U.S. funding for 'digital twin' chips research and its comparison to other large expenditures.Overview of the CHIPS Act, its budget, and its place in the broader U.S. budget context.Discussion on the price and subscription models of various EDA tools, from entry-level to high-end industry standards.Analysis of the impact of EDA tool pricing on small businesses versus large corporations.Parker's personal project update: success with his first KiCad PCB.The hosts reflect on the social dynamics of Twitter and its impact on public discourse and political polarization.Discussion about the complexities of U.S. political funding and its transparency.Comparison of software subscription models and their financial implications for users.Reflections on the interaction between engineering, politics, and social media.Relevant Links:Prevent Prototype Delays: Your Essential PCBA Pre-Order ChecklistUS plans $285 million in funding for ‘digital twin’ chips researchCommunity Questions:What are your thoughts on the use of 'digital twin' technology in chip manufacturing?How do you think the costs associated with EDA tools affect startups and small businesses?Do you have any personal experiences with the challenges of using subscription-based vs. perpetual license software?MacroFab:This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing, and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.We Want to Hear From You!Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

10 Maj 20241h 8min

This week we delve into the major (Isn't there always one?) lawsuit against Apple for monopolizing the smartphone market. We explore the implications of Apple’s business practices on innovation, consumer choice, and market competition. The discussion also covers the ethical concerns around Apple's ecosystem exclusivity and how it affects users' perceptions of non-Apple products.Discussion Highlights: Overview of the Justice Department's lawsuit against Apple for monopolizing smartphone markets, focusing on exclusionary practices that hinder competition.Examination of how Apple's ecosystem locks in users, making it difficult to switch to competitor products like Android.Discussion on the ethical considerations of business practices that degrade competitor's product functionality.Reflections on personal and societal impacts of technology choices, including the social implications of being labeled by the type of device one uses.Relevant Links:Justice Department Sues Apple: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-sues-apple-monopolizing-smartphone-marketsC-NET Article on Apple Lawsuit: https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/the-us-lawsuit-against-apple-raises-questions-about-iphone-and-androids-future/YouTube - Merrick B. Garland Press Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQk-EhuQdLg&t=278s&ab_channel=C-SPANCommunity Questions:How do Apple’s business practices affect your choice of technology and perception of non-Apple products?Do you think Apple’s ecosystem exclusivity is just good business, or does it cross ethical boundaries?Have you experienced or noticed any social implications based on the type of mobile device you or others use?MacroFab:This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.We Want to Hear From You!Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online Discourse discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

3 Maj 202449min

This week we dive into the fascinating world of vintage tech repair, focusing on efforts to preserve General Motors' futuristic '80s digital displays. Hosts Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig discuss the resilience and repair techniques of the Visual Information Center (VIC) screens, introduced in the late '80s. They also highlight MacroFab's new inventory management features that streamline the process for electronic components, ensuring efficient project management and system updates.Discussion Highlights: Launch of MacroFab's enhanced inventory management system, improving component tracking and project management.The survival and repair techniques of GM's '80s digital displays, highlighting the challenges and techniques involved in maintaining legacy technology.Discussion on designing long-lasting electronic components and the importance of planning for product lifecycle and reliability.Exploring the impact of technology on product longevity and the potential of modern tools to extend the life of electronic devices.Relevant links:MacroFab Inventory Management Update: https://www.macrofab.com/blog/inventory-features-streamline-management/Article on GM’s Futuristic '80s Digital Displays: https://www.theautopian.com/gms-futuristic-80s-digital-displays-are-dying-but-this-man-is-fighting-to-keep-them-alive/Community Questions:How do you approach maintaining or repairing older technological devices to extend their lifespan?What are your thoughts on balancing modern design with the need for longevity in electronics?Have you worked on any projects that involve updating or maintaining older technology? Share your experiences!MacroFab:This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.We Want to Hear From You!Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online Discourse discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

26 Apr 202455min