We looked at a range microcomputers, then built a project kit to make a line-following robot. Read more

We explored the practical aspects of wiring domestic electrical fittings, observing standards and safety considerations. Read more

Solar panels, storage batteries and EV chargers, among other topics. Read more

In this session we looked at 3 types of motor; rotary, stepper and servo. We looked at the uses of each type and how they are controlled. As a demonstration of the capabilities of motors under computer control, we saw a small demonstration of a device that can make line drawings up to many meters Read more

The group explored Computer Aided Design (CAD) software for creating circuit boards.  We looked at 'TinyCAD' for laying out schematic circuit diagrams, and then transferred the circuit definition into 'VeeCAD' to create the physical arrange of the components on a circuit board.  Finally we saw how the layout can be printed on paper and glued Read more

We fixed the 555 oscillator that failed to work last session, and investigated a simple phase-shift harmonic oscillator. Read more

We used a 555 chip to build an interval timer and a type of circuit known as a Relaxation Oscillator. Read more

We began with a bit of revision of resistors used as potential dividers, and of how the impedance of a capacitor depends on frequency. Thus armed, we were able to discuss the basics of Operational Amplifiers, and the importance of negative feedback for controlling the gain of an amplifier. We considered the merits of single Read more

Back after a break for holidays, the Technology Group resumed their electronics sessions. Richard bought along a very old (1950?) model railway controller for a safety check. We replaced the deteriorated rubber insulated mains cable with a nice modern one. and also made some improvements to the connections to the railway track. It was all Read more

Although there were only 2 participants this time, they were both (relatively) new to the group, so it was a chance to review the material we have covered so far, and to share thoughts on some specific questions. Read more