Click Here to see the project from the beginning
As I get closer to having everything working to my satisfaction, I’m beginning to look ahead to make the project reproducible by others. An obstacle for many might be that I use SMD components extensively, and many builders might have issues there. Therefore, before the next round of PCB redesign, I am modifying all the component PCB patterns so that either thru-hole or SMD components can be used. For all the common components such as resistors and capacitors, I have a new PCB pattern that looks like this:
This pattern will accept SMD hand-soldered components up to 1210, thru-hole 1/4W resistors on-end, or thru-hole capacitors with lead spacing up to 0.15″. I understand that it is not a recommended practice to put holes in SMD pads if the board is to be machine soldered, but I doubt if anyone will do that.
I intend to incorporate provision for SOIC-to-DIP adapters (below) into any redesigns so that the builder can solder DIP’s and SOIC IC’s directly to the main board or use the adapter board to simulate a DIP. With the DIP option you can socket the IC, which is useful during prototyping and debugging. I intend to post all the schematics, the PCB Gerber files and Digikey/Mouser part numbers as well as instructions for how to order custom PCB boards really cheap.
My first redesign will probably be the QSD detector board, as I’m not totally satisfied with the circuit architecture I chose there. I hope I can fit everything with the new larger patterns. Next will be the PSN/filter board and so on. I intend to make all the board outlines the same so they can be packaged in the little tins I used for the QSD.
Stay tuned.
W3JDR Bright Ideas 
Doh, I just got my new magnifier smuggled in as Covid essential supplies in anticipation.
What am I going to tell Jacinda Adern now when she comes round for a cuppa?
Nigel ZL1NAY
Hi Nigel!
Thanks for reading, and even more for commenting! I had a feeling someone must be reading this stuff. Let me know where you’d like it to go.
Joe
Joe,
Its a very interesting project and, like you say, you are looking at a through hole version. I think in the interests of everyone maybe just put the designs up for both and if you were going to get some boards done then maybe offer a pre-order. then you wont be out of pocket if you get left with a couple after a batch of 10.
Either way its a lot of work on your part. But if it only sits on your bench its been a good project.
I think its been a bit quiet as you went AWOL for a while plus this damn virus thing.
Don’t worry, i’m sure you have lots of followers.
Nigel ZL1NAY
Nigel
No intention here to go commercial on this. Generally, you get 10 boards for a fixdd price of about $15. Any boards I purchase are for my own use, though I might donate a few to early adopters. I’ll provide ordering info, but that’s about it.
There are plenty of followers here (more than 70 subscribed plus more who I know take a look). Just a matter of who has enough interest to pipe up.
Joe
I’m done with with your stock nswers. I want a refund or a new shipment. Please act quickly.