In this episode of Circuit Break, hosts Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig welcome Rick Altherr, a full stack engineer, to discuss the intricacies of quantum computing. Rick shares insights into the working of quantum processors, particularly the trapped ion approach used by IonQ, and delves into the technical challenges and potential future applications of quantum computing. The conversation covers the practicalities of building quantum computers, the nature of quantum algorithms, and the current limitations that keep quantum computing in the R&D phase.

Key Discussion Points:

• Introduction to Rick Altherr and his background in quantum computing at IonQ.
• Explanation of the trapped ion approach and its components like RF, lasers, and cryostats.
• The process of capturing and manipulating qubits in a quantum computer.
• The role of control theory in regulating trapped ions and performing quantum operations.
• The coherence time and its impact on quantum computations.
• Challenges in scaling up quantum computers and achieving practical applications.
• Comparison between trapped ion and superconducting quantum computers.
• The importance of laser cooling in maintaining the stability of qubits.
• The current state of quantum algorithms and their limited practical use.
• The concept of quantum advantage and commercial viability.
• Future prospects and the timeline for quantum computing becoming mainstream.
• Rick's insights on working remotely on such advanced technology.
• The role of simulations and empirical data in quantum computer calibration.

Relevant Links:

• Rick's Mastodon Profile
• Calendly for Rick's Mentoring and Resume Review
• Quantum Country
• Bloch Sphere - Wikipedia

Community Questions:

• What are your thoughts on the potential of quantum computing in your field of work?
• How do you see the impact of quantum computing advancements in the next decade?
• What are some practical applications you envision for quantum computing in everyday life?

MacroFab:

This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing, and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.

We Want to Hear From You!

Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

In this episode of Circuit Break, hosts Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig dive into the nuances of working with contract manufacturers, specifically focusing on the responsibilities of both the designer and the manufacturer. They discuss critical topics such as reflow profiles, solder specifications, parts washing, and the benefits of allowing your CM to handle PCB panelization. Parker also shares updates on his personal project, the PropFan controller, detailing its features and the challenges faced during its development.

Key Discussion Points:

• What information can you assume your CM will handle?
• Reflow profile considerations
• Solder specifications and BGAs
• Parts washing requirements
• Panelizing PCBs: Why it's best left to your CM
• Personal Project Updates: PropFan controller
• Switching to a SamD21 MCU for the PropFan
• Using the LT8672 for circuit protection
• Details on the Crystal Fontz CFA533-TFH-KC display
• Implementing I2C to differential pair conversion with PCA9615
• Using Ethernet to connect the display and PWM controller
• Exploring current sensing for fan control
• Potential features and future expansions for the PropFan
• Challenges with GPS speed control and automotive applications
• Importance of proper connector and enclosure selection for automotive electronics

Relevant Links:

• Top 10 Episodes for Electronic Engineers
• Comprehensive Power Supply System Designs for Harsh Automotive Environments

Community Questions:

• What are your thoughts on allowing your CM to handle PCB panelization?
• Have you ever encountered unique reflow profile requirements for specific components in your designs?
• What features would you like to see in an open-source automotive fan controller?

MacroFab:

This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.

We Want to Hear From You!

Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

In this episode of Circuit Break, hosts Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig interview Steve Furber, Professor Emeritus of Computer Engineering at the University of Manchester. They discuss his early career at Acorn Computers, the development of the BBC Micro and the ARM processor, and his work on the SpiNNaker project, which models brain functions using a million ARM processors. Furber shares insights into the challenges and successes of these projects and provides advice for aspiring engineers.

Key Discussion Points:

• Steve Furber's early career at Acorn Computers
• Development of the BBC Microcomputer
• Challenges faced in early computer development
• Design philosophy behind the ARM processor
• ARM's widespread adoption and current export restrictions
• The SpiNNaker project and its applications
• Evolution of neuromorphic computing and AI
• Personal interests and hobbies, including playing bass guitar
• Advice for aspiring engineers and future computing technologies
• Hypothetical career scenarios and advice to his younger self

Relevant Links:

• Steve Furber Wikipedia
• Steve Furber's Profile at Manchester University
• Signetics 2650
• Fruit Machine
• BBC Microcomputer
• SpiNNaker Project

Community Questions:

• What are your thoughts on the evolution of the ARM processor from its inception to its current applications?
• What advice would you give to young engineers interested in computer engineering today?

MacroFab:

This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.

We Want to Hear From You!

Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

In this special episode celebrating International Women in Engineering Day, hosts Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig are joined by Kaylan Smith, Lead Software Developer for Supply Chain and Finance at MacroFab, and Laura Manley, Product Manager for Marketplace & Factory Experience at MacroFab. They discuss their journeys into engineering, challenges faced, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in the field. The episode highlights personal stories, experiences, and insights into how they navigated their careers and the future of women in engineering.

News/Announcements:

• June 23rd is International Women in Engineering Day.
• Kaylan and Laura share their professional journeys and roles at MacroFab.
• Discussion on the importance of diversity and inclusion in engineering.

Key Discussion Points:

• Kaylan and Laura’s educational backgrounds and paths to MacroFab.
• The impact of role models and mentorship in their careers.
• Challenges faced by women in engineering and how they overcame them.
• The importance of diversity and inclusion in the engineering sector.
• The role of product management and the shift from design to management.
• The differences in work culture and expectations in creative fields vs. engineering fields.
• The importance of process and validation in engineering work.
• Experiences with implicit biases and the need for more diverse role models in technology.
• The significance of having a supportive and inclusive work environment.
• Future trends and opportunities for women in engineering.
• Advice for young women aspiring to enter the engineering field.

Relevant Links:

• AnitaB.org: A global organization supporting women in technology.

Community Questions:

• What are your thoughts on the role of diversity and inclusion in engineering?
• How have role models or mentors influenced your career path?
• What challenges have you faced in your engineering journey and how did you overcome them?
• How do you see the future of women in engineering evolving?

MacroFab:

This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.

We Want to Hear From You!

Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

In this episode of Circuit Break, Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig, along with special guests Chris Gammell and James Lewis, discuss various aspects of engineering career paths. They delve into how they chose engineering, their first jobs, reasons for changing jobs, and what being an engineer means at different career stages. They also reflect on what they wish they had known earlier in their careers and share some personal anecdotes about non-engineering jobs they've held. The discussion is rich with insights and advice for both new and experienced engineers.

Key Discussion Points:

• How the hosts and guests chose engineering as a career.
• The impact of their first jobs out of school.
• Good and bad reasons to change jobs.
• The role of mentorship and learning from senior engineers.
• Reflections on imposter syndrome and its effects.
• The importance of prioritizing tasks and learning to say no.
• Career transitions and the challenges faced.
• The influence of non-engineering jobs on their engineering careers.
• Advice on surrounding oneself with smart engineers.
• Experiences of working in different engineering roles and industries.
• The significance of having a plan and being open to change.
• The role of personality in learning from colleagues.
• Predictions and aspirations for the next five years.
• Thoughts on the evolving nature of electronics and engineering careers.

Relevant Links:

• AddOhms YouTube Channel
• Hackster.io
• The Amp Hour Podcast
• Golioth

Community Questions:

• What are your thoughts on changing jobs for career growth?
• How do you handle imposter syndrome in your engineering career?
• What non-engineering job have you had that influenced your engineering career the most?
• Where do you see your engineering career in the next five years?

MacroFab:

This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing, and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.

We Want to Hear From You!

Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

In this episode, Parker and Stephen dive into the intricacies of capacitor selection, discussing various types of capacitors, their properties, and how different factors affect their performance. They also touch on the new custom bare PCB service offered by MacroFab. The episode is rich with technical details, tips for selecting capacitors, and practical advice for engineers.

Key Discussion Points:

• Introduction to the new custom bare PCB service by MacroFab
• Detailed explanation of capacitor types: Class 1 and Class 2
• Importance of voltage coefficient of capacitance (VCC)
• Challenges in selecting capacitors for different applications
• Comparison between different capacitor sizes and their effects
• Tips for avoiding edge cases in capacitor selection
• Explanation of how barium titanate affects capacitor performance
• Murata's Sim Surfing tool for capacitor data
• Impact of capacitor choice on manufacturing and performance
• Best practices for selecting capacitors in design projects

Relevant Links:

• MacroFab Custom PCBs
• Episode 141 - It Depends - An In Depth Look at MLCCs with James Lewis
• Murata Sim Surfing

Community Questions:

• What are your thoughts on the voltage coefficient of capacitance (VCC) and its impact on capacitor selection?
• How do you handle the challenges of selecting capacitors for your projects?
• Have you used Murata's Sim Surfing tool for capacitor data? If so, how has it helped you?

MacroFab:

This show is brought to you by MacroFab, hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.

We Want to Hear From You!

Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

In this episode of Circuit Break, Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig welcome Urban Bruhin, the creator of LibrePCB, an open-source EDA tool. Urban shares his journey from being an electrical engineer to developing LibrePCB, driven by his dissatisfaction with existing EDA tools like Eagle. The discussion covers the unique features of LibrePCB, the challenges faced during its development, and the design philosophy behind its advanced library concept. Urban also discusses the future of LibrePCB and how the community can contribute to its growth.

Key Discussion Points

• Urban Bruhin's background and inspiration for creating LibrePCB.
• The challenges faced during the development of LibrePCB.
• The unique features of LibrePCB, including its advanced library concept and order feature.
• How LibrePCB handles DRC and multi-user collaboration.
• The future of LibrePCB and upcoming features.
• Ways to contribute to and support LibrePCB.

Relevant Links

• LibrePCB Official Website

Community Questions

• What are your thoughts on the advanced library concept in LibrePCB?
• How do you see open-source EDA tools impacting the future of PCB design?
• What features do you think are essential in an EDA tool for professional use?

MacroFab

This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.

We Want to Hear From You!

Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

In this episode of Circuit Break, Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig discuss the recent increase in semiconductor tariffs and its impact on the electronics industry. Parker shares insights from his latest article analyzing how these tariffs affect bill of materials costs. The hosts also dive into a compelling news story about ASML and TSMC's ability to disable chip machines remotely in the event of geopolitical conflicts, particularly if China invades Taiwan. They explore the ethical implications and security concerns surrounding this capability. Personal project updates include Parker's work on Python scripting to automate data extraction from invoices.

News/Announcements

• Recent increase in semiconductor tariffs and its potential impact on bill of materials costs.
• ASML and TSMC's ability to remotely disable chip machines in case of geopolitical conflicts.

Key Discussion Points

• Analysis of the new semiconductor tariffs and their impact on BOM costs.
• Breakdown of HTS codes and country of origin data for electronic components.
• Discussion on engineers’ shifting component choices to avoid tariffs.
• Insights into historical trends in component pricing and sourcing.
• ASML and TSMC’s ability to remotely disable chip machines in case of geopolitical conflicts.
• Ethical and security implications of remote shutdown capabilities.
• Speculative discussion on backdoors and right to repair in the context of high-tech manufacturing equipment.
• Personal project updates: Python scripting for data extraction and automation.

Relevant Links

• Parker's Article on Semiconductor Tariffs
• ASML and TSMC News

Community Questions

• What are your thoughts on the ethical implications of remotely disabling manufacturing equipment in other countries?
• How do you see the impact of the increased semiconductor tariffs affecting your projects or business?
• Have you noticed any trends in component pricing or sourcing that have influenced your engineering decisions?

MacroFab

This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.

We Want to Hear From You!

Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.