Hellooo, I'm just starting out with circuits and trying to get a handle on the basics. Thrilled to connect with folks who know their way around electronics and pick up some knowledge along the way. Ready to get started and learn from the discussions!
New to circuits and eager to learn
- Thread starter LovePink
- Start date
@barfle
I understand the fundamentals of it, yes. It's one thing on paper and another on the breadboard.
@shimmilou
That's really neat to hear. That says a lot about its importance. What makes it stand out so much for you in your work?
I understand the fundamentals of it, yes. It's one thing on paper and another on the breadboard.
@shimmilou
That's really neat to hear. That says a lot about its importance. What makes it stand out so much for you in your work?
What do you think is different?
I would say I use it most for calculating bias current for output tubes in guitar amplifiers. Using the tube max power rating in watts, the desired percent of idle (typically 60% to 70%), the DC Plate voltage, and measured voltage drop across a 1 ohm resistor, or a reading from an amp probe, to calculate and set the desired idle current. P=IxE, I=E/R
@barf
On paper, the numbers line up clean and tidy. On the breadboard, though, things get fuzzier with real voltage drops, resistor heat, and wire resistance in the mix.
@shimmilou
Awesome. I'm still new to anything tube-related but that level of control sounds like a sweet spot between math and art.
On paper, the numbers line up clean and tidy. On the breadboard, though, things get fuzzier with real voltage drops, resistor heat, and wire resistance in the mix.
@shimmilou
Awesome. I'm still new to anything tube-related but that level of control sounds like a sweet spot between math and art.
Check out "LTSpice" simulation software. It is free and is a great way to test ideas and circuits, and learn about electronics without all the smoke and sparks you get with traditional breadboard experiments. You can virtually apply power to, and run a circuit while attaching meters, oscilloscopes and probes to test and take voltage, current and resistance readings.
If resistors change value with heat or there’s noticeable voltage drop in a wire, there’s an issue with the wattage rating of the resistor or the guage of the wire. By the way, the fact that those may happen in NO WAY means that Ohm’s law is in error. It does mean that you have a valuable tool to figure out what you’re doing wrong.
