Modern PCB Design Practices: Part 2 — Tips and Techniques

The first article from audio expert Ethan Winer about Modern PCB Design Practices, gave a general overview of board design using surface-mounted devices (SMDs). The article examines current practices and methods for designing four-layer printed circuit boards using surface mounted components (SMDs), and this second part explains specific strategies and related issues to deal with the design and production of great quality PCBs. This article was originally published in audioXpress, March 2023.

The new PA 2522 preamplifier from Langer EMV-Technik can be used to amplify weak measurement signals from near-field probes, connected to the 50Ω input of a spectrum analyzer or oscilloscope. It stands out because of its low noise behavior and a constantly high dynamic range over an extremely wide frequency range, from 10MHz to 22GHz. The preamplifier is powered by the included power adapter.

Xuron Corp. of Saco, Maine, introduced a full line of ergonomic cutters and pliers that are ideally suited for precise electronic applications such as reaching into densely populated printed circuit boards. Being the original inventor of the Micro-Shear blade by-pass cutting technology used on all its cutters, Xuron now expands its range of products for electronics professionals and enthusiasts with new electrostatic discharge-safe (ESD-safe) cutters and pliers.

This reference DIY project details of an upgrade construction for the legendary Hafler DH-220 lateral MOSFET power amplifier, which can also be used to upgrade other Hafler models or even inspire new designs. The design is implemented on two PCBs, one as a drop-in replacement for the original Hafler circuit board and another board that consolidates all of the output stage wiring and components within the heatsink and under the main PCB. After the authors detailed the design and performance of the DH-220C upgrade amplifier, in this second part of the article, Bob Cordell and Rick Savas discuss the construction and testing. This article was originally published in audioXpress, August 2021.

This article offers an interesting perspective on the challenges and solutions that the electronics industry in general and the audio industry specifically needs to consider when requirements for waterproof, moisture-proof, splash proof, weather-resistant, and sweat-proof are increasingly demanded by consumers. "While the marketing points on the box might claim IPx7, IP68, or sweat proof, from a manufacturing perspective, there are gaps in the different processes to achieve these standards," Lindberg writes. This article was originally published in Voice Coil, July 2020.

The March 2018 edition of audioXpress explores the latest advancements on Test and Measurement solutions and technologies. In this issue, we review G.R.A.S. Sound & Vibration's new RA040X ear simulators, and the IK Multimedia ARC 2.5 room correction system, with its included MEMS-based measurement microphone. We also discuss Measurement Microphones and Measurements for Smart Speakers, and conduct an interview Steve Temme, President of Listen, Inc. Gary Galo and Chuck Hansen pay tribute to the life and accomplishments of Victor Campos (1933-2017), and there is much more in this edition you don't want to miss!

Tube life can be extended if you delay the application of high voltage until after the heaters have warmed up and current can flow. This little module does just that: depending on the setting of a jumper, it delays the high-voltage for 40 or 60 seconds after the amplifier is switched on. And the module is available as a kit. This article was originally published in audioXpress, February 2014.