De-capping ICs for fun and profit, but mostly fun.

Some time back, a friend @codfishcatfish was building a GPS disciplined oscillator for radio measurements. Part of the circuit uses a MAX232 device to interface the low voltage digital signals to a PC serial port. He found his cheap (from eBay) MAX232s got very hot and failed in use. It was obvious the devices were …

Another Mountain

Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in England. It’s only slightly taller than the surrounding peaks, but popular with walkers due to being the tallest. You can hike to the top, no climbing gear is needed beyond good boots, though walking poles are a big help. The approach to the top is across a loose …