Recent content by mike_d

For a while I had both the ER6 and 6i and was auditioning them, now I only have the 6i. The filters on the 6i will pop right out without the tool. Sorry, I don't remember what the 6's were like All i can say is good luck! -mike

You can try cleaning the filters. Every couple of weeks I pop mine out and let them sit in a small container of window cleaner, isopropyl alcohol, or any other mild solvent cleaner i have on hand. Let them sit for a minute or two, then shake gently. Dump out the cleaner (don't loose the...

if you REALLY want to use a dremel as a router, get the precision base from http://www.stewmac.com It's pricy but it's the best. Nothing better for precision work. For drilling PCBs do not use the 3 jaw chuck that they sell for dremels. i've never been able to find one with acceptable...

All of these reasons are why companies like Microchip and TI make cell monitoring and protection chips and charge controllers. These cells are perfectly safe when used within their limits - the RC crowd will build their own packs WITHOUT the monitoring circuitry to save weight. Many of these...

i've used eagle on osx but for simple layouts i prefer osmond pcb: http://www.swcp.com/~jchavez/osmond.html it does not require x11. -mike

I've just stocked up on supplies to make some cables and my dealings with the following places have been more than satisfactory: www.markertek.com www.partsexpress.com www.percyaudio.com -mike

I'd probably be up for a meet. I'm in Philly during the day for work/class then back in Trenton every night. With the two hours on SEPTA every day headphones & solder fumes are the only thing that keeps me sane . -mike

First, blacken the aluminum with a permanent marker and scribe the outline of the cutout. Work from the rear so any marks won't be on the money side of the panel. I'd drill out as much material as possible then use metal files to square it up. If you can get a nibbler tool, go for it. It's a...

Remember that solid carbide bits can be extremely fragile, carbide tipped bits are better. If your 'press has problems with runout (very common with cheaper machines), or the chuck is not centering the bit properly, they will break very quickly. I experienced this with my dremel drill press...

Quote: Originally Posted by bg4533 Can anyone recommend any good bits to use for drilling aluminum cases and heatsinks? Are certain brands better than others? What coating should I look for? Plain high speed steel (HSS) bits are fine for drilling aluminum. Cheap too. I'll replace...

Another option is to look at the offerings on ebay. Search for drill presses then look for ones in your area. I've bought lots of heavy machinery & test equipment that way at VERY good prices. If you can pick up the item you don't pay shipping or freight costs and rarely pay any sales tax...

check out one of the smaller presses from Grizzly: http://www.grizzly.com/products/mach...cfm?key=380000 i have one of their 14" benchtop models in my basement and it's been one of my best investments. I will say that for holes over 1/2" diameter i use my set of greenlee chassis punches...