Epic Builds: Articulated Stereo Microscope Arm

[singlepic id=391 w=640 h=480] I’ve wanted a stereo microscope in my home lab for ages.  In the last couple of years, it’s become an increasingly urgent need…

Experiments in Drag Soldering

Here’s a quick video I did of my first experiments with drag soldering using a new Metcal hoof tip that I picked up on eBay.  This video…

Rigol DS1102E Unboxing & Mini Review

It’s been a week of new toys for the electronics lab here at the world headquarters of Tangent Audio.  Yesterday brought the affordable hot air reflow tool,…

eBay Hot Air Rework Tool Review

Based on Dan’s review and Dave Jones’ review, I picked up a Kendal 899D hot air/soldering iron rework station off of eBay for about $80.   These tools…

Lathe Hoisting

[singlepic id=310 w=480 float=left] With the lathe arriving at the house last week, I needed to formulate a plan to get it up onto the bench.  I…

Totally Screwed

[singlepic id=112 w=320] [singlepic id=111 w=320] I received a big assortment of 18-8 stainless steel hardware from eBay, with a lot of useful sizes/threads.  It was a…

New Workbench

[singlepic id=110 w=480] With the help of my dad, I built a new workbench for the machine shop on Saturday.  I attached the top and notched and…

Shop Reorganization, Part I of XXIV

This weekend, I started the major effort of cleaning and reorganizing my basement on the “clean” (i.e. non-wood shop) side.  I decided to move my electronics lab…