Files for OSHPark

Posted: 2013-May-31 | Author: | Filed under: ADC adapter | Tags: , , , , , , | 9 Comments »

I got a message that BatchPCB has closed and been replaced by OSHPark and the author requested I update the Gerber files. I tried simply renaming the files and put them in a new ZIP. I uploaded them to OSHPark and the visualization of the boards look good. I don't intend to do a test purchase, but please let me know how it turns out. Anyway, here's the ZIP archive with the Gerber files. Enjoy. (You will need to save the ZIP archive and upload it to OSHPark yourself as there is no storefront like there was on BatchPCB.)

Video and USB Connectors Library

Posted: 2013-February-25 | Author: | Filed under: ADC adapter | Tags: , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment »

And, per the open source hardware requests, here is a ZIP file containing a parts library for CadSoft's EAGLE schematic design software containing an ADC connector, VGA connector, DVI connector, and a few USB connectors. These are missing from the default libraries so one could edit and make their own ADC adapter board.

I had success wiring up the various connectors, but you may need to adjust dimensions to meet DRC requirements with whatever method you are getting circuit boards made. Naturally, there is no warranty with this library.

2012-Apr-3 ADC Adapter Board

Posted: 2012-October-18 | Author: | Filed under: ADC adapter | Tags: , , , , | Leave a comment »

After reviewing the boards I got back from BatchPCB, I made a few changes:

  • Fix bug where DVI pin 15 (ground) was unconnected. This didn't actually cause a problem in my tests, but it should be connected.
  • Increase ratio of documentation (e.g. visible when project is completed, does not apply to placement) to a minimum thickness of 0.01" (0.06" letters at 18% thickness ratio.)
  • Move VGA text so it does not run over a via.
  • Rearrange central text so it does not run over vias.
  • Add bigger polarity marks for the monitor power bypass capacitor set.

This is noted as version "2012-Apr-3" on the silkscreen. You can buy it here.

ADC Adapter Board with Minor Bugs

Posted: 2012-April-3 | Author: | Filed under: ADC adapter | Tags: , , , , , , , | Leave a comment »

I finished up my ADC-DVI-VGA version that fits in an Altoids tin and sent it to BatchPCB. I prefer to use American labor, so I got a quote from Advanced Circuits, but the prices work out: it’s about $400 to start at any quantity (e.g. 10 is about $40 each) down to $10/each for 100. I couldn’t justify it in case (a) there was a bug, and (b) whether I could sell more than 5 to make up for it.

While I was waiting for it, I fiddled around in the design to make sure it was right. I realize I should have checked the design first, and, running the electrical rule check (ERC) I found I had left the DVI connector ground unconnected. D'oh! Fortunately there are half a dozen other grounds which (usually) get all tied together, so I was lucky and when I wired one up, it worked perfectly the first time. (Note that this is the 2012-Feb-29 version with only 4 copies around.)

I'm updating the design and will send it off to BatchPCB and open it up for sale. I'll also post the design files as my intent is for this project to be an Open Source Hardware (OSHW) project.