Circuit design and manufacturing

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a service that can engineer, prototype, and produce circuits, specifically focusing on the design of a sine/square wave generator with specific output requirements. Participants share experiences, seek advice, and discuss technical challenges related to circuit design and functionality.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks a comprehensive service for circuit engineering, prototyping, and small-scale production, expressing frustration over the lack of options found online.
  • Another participant recommends a consultant in Silicon Valley, noting the high cost but quality of service.
  • Several participants discuss the specifications for a sine/square wave generator, including a frequency range of 1Hz to 1000Hz and a maximum output of 2 amps.
  • Concerns are raised about the high current requirement for a signal generator, with suggestions that an amplifier might be needed to buffer the output.
  • One participant shares an experience of using a PC tone generator and a home audio amplifier, which resulted in clipping and damage, indicating that audio amplifiers may not be suitable for the intended application.
  • A participant mentions testing a micro tone generator that outputs up to 8 volts, but later finds it insufficient for their electromagnet application.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the feasibility of using existing audio equipment for the sine/square wave generator application, with some suggesting alternatives while others recount unsuccessful attempts. No consensus is reached on the best approach to meet the circuit requirements.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the need for specific output characteristics and the challenges faced with existing equipment, highlighting limitations in current solutions and the need for custom design.

justinreeves
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Hello I am trying to find a all in one place that can engineer a circuit, create a prototype, and possibly do small quantity production.
Does anyone know of a place, I've been searching the net for hours and most the ones I see are for just PCB design, or PCB design and manu.
any help would be appreciated.
 
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I've used an excellent consultant here in Silicon Valley. He is definitely not cheap, but he's one of the best. PM me if you want his contact info.
 
PM?
Unfamiliar with lingo.
 
Actually also all I am looking at is a sine/square wave generator from 1hz-1000Hz that has a amplitude output of say 2amp max.
The circuit will not power a transducer or function as a preamp though, I need to find out what the resistance load will be.
similar to this.
http://www.canakit.net/Default.asp?Contents=/Include/Template/MenuCat.asp&Main=http://www.canakit.net/Contents/Items/UK305.asp
this would be even better.
http://www.siliconchip.com.au/cms/A_102145/article.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
justinreeves said:
PM?
Unfamiliar with lingo.
Private Message. I think you can just click on my "berkeman" handle and one of the choices will be send a PM.
 
justinreeves said:
Actually also all I am looking at is a sine/square wave generator from 1hz-1000Hz that has a amplitude output of say 2amp max.
The circuit will not power a transducer or function as a preamp though, I need to find out what the resistance load will be.
similar to this.
http://www.canakit.net/Default.asp?Contents=/Include/Template/MenuCat.asp&Main=http://www.canakit.net/Contents/Items/UK305.asp
this would be even better.
http://www.siliconchip.com.au/cms/A_102145/article.html
2 Amps is a lot of current for a simple signal generator. Most generators will have an output impedance of 50 Ohms (or higher), and a +/-5V-ish output voltage. Is the higher current requirement the reason that you need to design and build something different from the examples you posted links to? If so, maybe all you have to do is build (or buy) an amplifier that can take the signal generator input and buffer it to the output. The frequency range you mentioned is mostly audio except for the 1Hz part -- you might be able to use an off-the-shelf audio amp if you bypass the input AC coupled stage...
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I tried using a PC tone generator and a home audio amp but the signal clipped badly and ruined the amp. I think the electromagnets I am powering need a square wave, and audio amps can't handle that.
 
I have a micro tone generator that goes upto 8 volts it says Ill try that tonight.
 
OK I checked it with a DMM it was only 4 volts with no load.
I tried it on the electromagnets (5.5Ohms) didnt even cause the magnets to oscillate the armature bar.
 

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