Build a uInverter #9
Description
Abstract
Build (solder up) a uInverter.
Approach
Unless you are already an expert at soldering, before attempting to solder the uInverter complete a soldering tutorial and have your work inspected. Students at UMN should complete the Anderson Design Labs tutorial. We can also purchase a tutorial kit like this.
- Learn what a "cold solder joint" is and how to identify one.
- Learn about flux and soldering wicks.
- Learn how to identify pin 1 of an integrated circuit on both the PCB and the electronic component.
The design files needed for fabrication (bill of materials and schematic) can be found in the REV.... folder for the version of uInverter that you are building, located here
Bonus points if you provide some fun pictures of you building it.
If you are in Eric Severson's research group: place a serial number on your uInverter and add it to the uInverter board log.
ESD Caution
Just like the AMDC, follow best practices on avoiding damage from ESD. This includes:
- Transporting and storing your uInverter in an antistatic / electrostatic bag
- When working with the uInverter, it should be in either a grounded cabinet or placed upon a grounded ESD mat and you should be wearing a grounding strap
Hints
- If you are new to soldering, get some training first and ask an expert to inspect your first few solder connections.
- Before you sit down to solder, print out the schematic and bill of materials.
- Notice how the bill of materials spreadsheet has a
Designatorcolumn. This column is your critical roadmap to building the uInverter. It allows you to to match the part to the schematic and the silkscreen (the printed text for each part) on your circuit board. - When you go to your solder station, assemble a box with all necessary components and your printed schematic and bill of materials. You may also find it useful to have an already fabricated uInverter to use as a reference.
- When in doubt, ask for help! Soldering is a skill that takes practice and feedback from others to perfect.