Wednesday, June 12, 2024

Measuring Resistance of Fuses with a Milliohm Meter and Kelvin Clips -3- (More 12 Volt Fuses)

I received more 12 fuses and in this this blogpost i am going to present the results of the 12 Volt fuses. My intention was to publish after my post about the 250V glass fuses some evaluation of the data. However i received from Aliexpress a nice Anderson Powerpole connection block "DC 36V AP-8S 8 Channel Power Distributor For HF Radio Communication Power Supply Splitter Anderson Powerpole Screw Fixing" with more 12 Volt fuses. 

As i only had a few results of 12V fuses in my first post about the car fuses and i was curious about these Chinese fuses i gave more priority to measure the 12V fuses.

I want to do a separate blogpost about a review of this Anderson Powerpole block (and it also will appear in a mailbag blog) as i think it is a real nice power block that i bought for a decent price.  Not only does did it had a set of fuses in the block, also a spare set of fuses was included. 
So i now additional have 2 x ( 1x 40A + 3x 25A + 2x 15A + 1x 10A + 1x 5A ) fuses.

In the table below are also the results from the set car fuses already mentioned in the previous blog about the 12 V car fuses (= S1 [set1] ) and the fuse that came with the single fuse holder (= H1)

The measurement with this single fuse holder are not included as i wanted to focus this post on the fuse not on the fuse holder(s). 

Resettable Fuse Circuit Breaker

Via Aliexpress i also got a 12V 24V DC Car Truck Audio Resettable Fuse Circuit Breaker 30A Circuit Breaker. (see picture below) 

Resettable Fuse Circuit Breaker

A nice thing about this fuse is that you can reset it and it can be used as circuit breaker. ('Resettable Fuse Circuit Breaker'). I was curious about this fuse so i ordered one and included the result in the table below.  Pressing the circuit breaker and resetting the fuse (several times) gave each time the same resistance.
Spoiler alert: Relative to the other 30A fuse the resistance seems higher. However the resistance is still low.

Safety

Be aware that these resetable fuse circuit breakers (and also the normal 12V car fuses from AliExpress) have a bad reputation and can be unsafe.

The Carpoint fuses that i did buy at the Gamma  in The Netherlands are also made in China. (See packaging bottom right). 

Measurement

I removed fuses (one by one) from the Anderson Powerpole block and measured the resistances ( Ab to Ab7 [the number corresponds with the number on the Anderson Powerpole block ] ). I was a little difficult to remove these fuses. 

The spare fuses that came with the Anderson Powerpole block ( Ax to Ax7 ) where also measured.

The results

Table 1: Results 12V fuses (Including previous results, sorted on rated current). 
Fuse Color Rated CurrentMeasured
Resistance
Calculated
Voltage drop
at 100 mA
Calculated
Voltage drop
at rated current
Calculated Voltage drop
at rated current in %
relative to 12 Volt
Ab7 Biege 5 0.014 0.0014 0.070 0.58%
Ax7 Biege 5 0.013 0.0013 0.065 0.54%
S1 Brown 7.5 0.009 0.0009 0.068 0.56%
Ab6 Red 10 0.006 0.0006 0.060 0.50%
Ax6 Red 10 0.006 0.0006 0.060 0.50%
H1 Red 10 0.007 0.0007 0.070 0.58%
S1 Red 10 0.006 0.0006 0.060 0.50%
Ab4 Blue 15 0.004 0.0004 0.060 0.50%
Ab5 Blue 15 0.004 0.0004 0.060 0.50%
Ax4 Blue 15 0.005 0.0005 0.075 0.63%
Ax5 Blue 15 0.005 0.0005 0.075 0.63%
S1 Blue 15 0.004 0.0004 0.060 0.50%
S1 Yellow 20 0.003 0.0003 0.060 0.50%
Ab1 Clear 25 0.002 0.0002 0.050 0.42%
Ab2 Clear 25 0.003 0.0003 0.075 0.63%
Ab3 Clear 25 0.003 0.0003 0.075 0.63%
Ax1 Clear 25 0.003 0.0003 0.075 0.63%
Ax2 Clear 25 0.003 0.0003 0.075 0.63%
Ax3 Clear 25 0.003 0.0003 0.075 0.63%
S1 Clear 25 0.002 0.0002 0.050 0.42%
Resettable
 Fuse Circuit Breaker
 (*1) 30 0.004 0.0004 0.120 1.00%
S1 Green 30 0.002 0.0002 0.060 0.50%
Ab Amber 40 0.001 0.0001 0.040 0.33%
Ax Amber 40 0.001 0.0001 0.040 0.33% 

Summary

Higher rated fuses seem to have a lower resistance.

Between 12 Volt fuses of the same rating is not much variation in the resistance.

The 30 A Resettable Fuse Circuit Breaker seems to have a higher resistance (and higher voltage drop) than a standard 30A 12V fuse.

Also, compared to the 250 Volt fuses in my previous post these 12V car fuses have a much lower resistance !!!

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

Measuring Resistance of Fuses with a Milliohm Meter and Kelvin Clips -2- (250V Fuses measurement results )

Ensuring the integrity and reliability of 250V fuses is crucial for maintaining the safety and functionality of high-voltage electrical systems. In this post, I'll share my experience measuring the resistance of 250V fuses using an affordable milliohm meter equipped with Kelvin clips, highlighting the key considerations and benefits of this method.

Why Measure Fuse Resistance?

Regularly measuring the resistance of 250V fuses is essential for several reasons:

1. Ensuring Reliability:

Over time, fuses can develop higher resistance due to aging or exposure to harsh conditions.

2. Troubleshooting:

Identifying a fuse with abnormal resistance can help diagnose and prevent circuit issues.

3. Preventive Maintenance: 

Regular measurements allow for the replacement of fuses before they fail, avoiding potential downtime or damage.

Tools Needed

For this task, I used:

- Milliohm Meter:

 Capable of measuring low resistance values accurately.

- Kelvin Clips: 

Four-wire probes that eliminate the influence of lead and contact resistance, providing precise measurements.

The Measurement Process

Here's a quick overview of the process:

1. Calibration:

Ensure the milliohm meter is calibrated using the shorting clip and zeroing function.

2. Connecting Kelvin Clips: 

Attach the clips to the fuse, ensuring a solid, clean connection at opposite ends.

3. Taking the Measurement: 

Power on the meter and read the displayed resistance value.

Voltage Drop Across the Fuse

For a milliohm meter with a measurement current of 100 mA, the voltage drop across the fuse can be calculated using Ohm's Law (V = I × R).

Example Calculation:

- For a measured resistance of 0.005 ohms: 

  - Voltage Drop: V = 100 mA × 0.005 ohms = 0.5 mV

- For a measured resistance of 0.002 ohms: 

  - Voltage Drop: V = 100 mA × 0.002 ohms = 0.2 mV

Change in Resistance Due to Heating

When a fuse is subjected to higher currents, it can heat up, causing its resistance to change:

- Initial Resistance:

The resistance at room temperature is relatively low.

- Heating Effect:

Higher current flow increases temperature, raising the resistance.

- Increased Resistance:

This change can be significant, especially for currents near the fuse’s rated limit.

Measured resistance

I having a long time a box with slow 250V glass fuses with values 50 mA, 160 mA, 200 mA, 315 mA, 500 mA, 800 mA, 1 A, 2 A, 2.5 A. It would be nice to use these fuses as a test-set. 

My box with fuses (open)

I first did think it was needed to measure each fuse several times. However during my first (not documented) test i discovered that remeasuring a fuse id almost gave no variation in the result. (max 1 or 2 in the last digit).  The variation between different fuses of the same rating was much bigger. Therefore i decided to measure all the fuses once and put the results in a table (1).

However there were some limitations: 

- According to the manual, the resistance is measured with a testing current of about 100 mA. ( i did not check this yet.) Therefore i decided to skip to 50 mA fuses as they would be blown an not measured.

- The fuses are relative old. I expect at least 25 years. The nice thing is that it is a set of in total more than 140 fuses of different values and the aging effect of the fuses is included.

- The box with fuses had at (least) two sources. A box with fuses that i did buy many years ago and a similar box with fuses that i received some year ago from someone else. I did merge the content of these boxes a year ago to save some space.

- I noticed some fuses had a resistance far above 1 ohm. (And i expect some of these fuses where bad. I measured with a multi-meter around 200 Ohm and some above 10 Mega Ohm and even some fuses that made no connection at all. I removed these fuses from the box with fuses, kept them apart and did not include the results. I expect the fuses that made no connection at all are blown fuses and i did throw them away.  

- All my 2.5 A fuses had corrosion and the measured resistances where above 1 Ohm. I don't know if this is normal or this was due to aging and/or the corrosion. The strange thing is that all the 2.5 A fuses that had visible corrosion and almost none of the other fuses.  I don't know the source of the corrosion. Perhaps the fuses are of a different material or there was humidity that mainly reached the 2.5 A fuses and not the other fuses. Therefore i excluded all of the 2.5 A fuses.

Results

Below a table with the measured resistance , the calculated voltage drop at 100mA and the voltage drop at the rated current.

Table 1: Measured resistances with calculated voltage drops

Result /
 measurement
Number
 mA Measured
 resistance 
Calculated
Voltage drop
at 100mA
Calculated
Voltage drop
at rated current
1 500 0.447 0.04470 2.235
2 500 0.477 0.04770 2.385
3 500 0.446 0.04460 2.230
4 500 0.434 0.04340 2.170
5 500 0.520 0.05200 2.600
6 500 0.461 0.04610 2.305
7 500 0.510 0.05100 2.550
8 500 0.536 0.05360 2.680
9 500 0.462 0.04620 2.310
10 500 0.432 0.04320 2.160
11 500 0.502 0.05020 2.510
12 500 0.482 0.04820 2.410
13 500 0.452 0.04520 2.260
14 500 0.465 0.04650 2.325
15 500 0.424 0.04240 2.120
16 500 0.456 0.04560 2.280
17 500 0.469 0.04690 2.345
18 500 0.461 0.04610 2.305
19 160 0.579 0.05790 0.926
20 160 0.570 0.05700 0.912
21 160 0.537 0.05370 0.859
22 160 0.640 0.06400 1.024
23 160 0.409 0.04090 0.654
24 160 0.658 0.06580 1.053
25 160 0.664 0.06640 1.062
26 160 0.531 0.05310 0.850
27 160 0.613 0.06130 0.981
28 160 0.568 0.05680 0.909
29 160 0.677 0.06770 1.083
30 160 0.581 0.05810 0.930
31 160 0.604 0.06040 0.966
32 160 0.619 0.06190 0.990
33 160 0.494 0.04940 0.790
34 160 0.615 0.06150 0.984
35 160 0.689 0.06890 1.102
36 160 0.557 0.05570 0.891
37 160 0.409 0.04090 0.654
38 160 2.900 0.29000 4.640
39 1000 0.088 0.00880 0.880
40 1000 0.089 0.00890 0.890
41 1000 0.092 0.00920 0.920
42 1000 0.087 0.00870 0.870
43 1000 0.089 0.00890 0.890
44 1000 0.089 0.00890 0.890
45 1000 0.087 0.00870 0.870
46 1000 0.089 0.00890 0.890
47 1000 0.087 0.00870 0.870
48 1000 0.094 0.00940 0.940
49 1000 0.091 0.00910 0.910
50 1000 0.096 0.00960 0.960
51 1000 0.089 0.00890 0.890
52 1000 0.087 0.00870 0.870
53 1000 0.089 0.00890 0.890
54 1000 0.092 0.00920 0.920
55 1000 0.091 0.00910 0.910
56 1000 0.090 0.00900 0.900
57 1000 0.090 0.00900 0.900
58 315 0.700 0.07000 2.205
59 315 0.562 0.05620 1.770
60 315 0.761 0.07610 2.397
61 315 0.706 0.07060 2.224
62 315 0.852 0.08520 2.684
63 315 0.805 0.08050 2.536
64 315 0.607 0.06070 1.912
65 315 0.723 0.07230 2.277
66 315 0.681 0.06810 2.145
67 315 0.612 0.06120 1.928
68 315 0.646 0.06460 2.035
69 315 0.884 0.08840 2.785
70 315 0.760 0.07600 2.394
71 315 0.719 0.07190 2.265
72 315 0.871 0.08710 2.744
73 315 0.766 0.07660 2.413
74 315 0.681 0.06810 2.145
75 315 0.620 0.06200 1.953
76 315 0.759 0.07590 2.391
77 315 0.602 0.06020 1.896
78 2000 0.039 0.00390 0.780
79 2000 0.039 0.00390 0.780
80 2000 0.039 0.00390 0.780
81 2000 0.042 0.00420 0.840
82 2000 0.038 0.00380 0.760
83 2000 0.037 0.00370 0.740
84 2000 0.035 0.00350 0.700
85 2000 0.703 0.07030 14.060
86 200 0.331 0.03310 0.662
87 200 0.485 0.04850 0.970
88 200 0.545 0.05450 1.090
89 200 0.405 0.04050 0.810
90 200 0.486 0.04860 0.972
91 200 0.584 0.05840 1.168
92 200 0.490 0.04900 0.980
93 200 0.573 0.05730 1.146
94 200 0.472 0.04720 0.944
95 200 0.442 0.04420 0.884
96 200 0.446 0.04460 0.892
97 200 0.508 0.05080 1.016
98 200 0.515 0.05150 1.030
99 200 0.429 0.04290 0.858
100 200 0.489 0.04890 0.978
101 200 0.395 0.03950 0.790
102 200 0.491 0.04910 0.982
103 250 0.268 0.02680 0.670
104 250 0.517 0.05170 1.293
105 250 0.382 0.03820 0.955
106 250 0.388 0.03880 0.970
107 250 0.385 0.03850 0.963
108 250 0.340 0.03400 0.850
109 250 0.348 0.03480 0.870
110 250 0.366 0.03660 0.915
111 250 0.249 0.02490 0.623
112 250 0.322 0.03220 0.805
113 250 0.338 0.03380 0.845
114 250 0.405 0.04050 1.013
115 250 0.263 0.02630 0.658
116 250 0.361 0.03610 0.903
117 250 0.350 0.03500 0.875
118 250 0.247 0.02470 0.618
119 250 0.349 0.03490 0.873
120 250 0.322 0.03220 0.805
121 250 0.342 0.03420 0.855
122 250 0.371 0.03710 0.928
123 250 0.292 0.02920 0.730
124 800 0.151 0.01510 1.208
125 800 0.136 0.01360 1.088
126 800 0.139 0.01390 1.112
127 800 0.127 0.01270 1.016
128 800 0.133 0.01330 1.064
129 800 0.131 0.01310 1.048
130 800 0.141 0.01410 1.128
131 800 0.128 0.01280 1.024
132 800 0.128 0.01280 1.024
133 800 0.133 0.01330 1.064
134 800 0.136 0.01360 1.088
135 800 0.143 0.01430 1.144
136 800 0.127 0.01270 1.016
137 800 0.128 0.01280 1.024
138 800 0.135 0.01350 1.080
139 800 0.136 0.01360 1.088
140 800 0.132 0.01320 1.056
141 800 0.147 0.01470 1.176
142 800 0.132 0.01320 1.056

Some of the fuses gave results that made me doubt if the fuse had indeed the current rating i expected. However i did check the rating it on the fuse! 

Table 2: Summary of measured resistances  (Some outliers are removed.)
Fuse rating (mA) Average resistance  Min resistance  Max resistance
160 0.5797 0.409 0.689
200 0.4756 0.331 0.584
250 0.3431 0.247 0.517
315 0.7159 0.562 0.884
500 0.4687 0.424 0.536
800 0.1349 0.127 0.151
1000 0.0898 0.087 0.096
2000 0.0384 0.035 0.042
 
Fuses with a higher rating seem to have a lower resistance, however even in this box with fuses not always!  I decided to already publish the measured results with a quick summary. In an upcoming blog-post i will do a more in depth evaluation of the results.
My box with fuses (closed)

Conclusion

Measuring the resistance of 250V fuses with a milliohm meter and Kelvin clips is a straightforward yet powerful method to ensure the health of your high-voltage circuit protection devices. Regular checks can help you catch potential issues early, maintaining the integrity and safety of your electrical systems. It was also a good exercise to measure these fuses to check the health and variation between these fuses. This affordable and accurate setup is a valuable addition to any toolkit, providing peace of mind and reliable performance.

Stay tuned for more insights and results from my ongoing experiments and measurements and a more in-depth evaluation of these measured results. Happy measuring!

Monday, June 10, 2024

Measuring Resistance of Fuses with a Milliohm Meter and Kelvin Clips -1- ( Car fuses )

In the world of electronics, ensuring the integrity of fuses is crucial for the safety and reliability of circuits. Fuses act as protective devices, preventing excessive current from damaging components. Over time, however, fuses can degrade, leading to increased resistance, which may compromise their effectiveness. Today, I'll share my experience measuring the resistance of some 12 Volt car fuses using an affordable milli-ohm meter equipped with Kelvin clips. This method provides accurate results, essential for maintaining optimal circuit performance.

Why Measure Fuse Resistance?

Measuring the resistance of fuses serves several purposes:

1. Ensuring Reliability: 

Over time, fuses can develop higher resistance due to aging or exposure to harsh conditions. Regular checks ensure they are still effective.

2. Troubleshooting: 

Identifying a fuse with abnormal resistance can help diagnose and prevent circuit issues.

3. Preventive Maintenance:

Regular measurements allow for the replacement of fuses before they fail, avoiding potential downtime or damage.

Equipment Needed

For this task, I used the following equipment:

- Milliohm Meter: 

A device capable of measuring low resistance values accurately. I used a YMC01 2R handheld Milliohm Meter. For details see my previous blogpost. According to the manual this meter uses a testing current of about 100 mA (i did not check this),

- Kelvin Clips:

 Four-wire probes that eliminate the influence of lead and contact resistance, providing precise measurements. These where included with my meter.

- Fuses:

 For the first test i used some some new 12 Volt Car fuses.

Also i tested a fuse in a fuse holder.
Below a table of the color codes of the car fuses.

The Measurement Process

Here’s a step-by-step guide to measuring fuse resistance with a milliohm meter and Kelvin clips:

1. Calibration

Before starting, it’s essential to calibrate the milliohm meter. Follow these steps:

- Turn on the meter and allow it to stabilize.

- Use the provided shorting clip to connect the Kelvin clips together.

- Zero the meter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This step ensures that the meter reads zero when there’s no resistance. My cheap meter does not have a zeroing function. H

2. Connecting Kelvin Clips

Attach the Kelvin clips to the fuse. Ensure a solid, clean connection:

- Place the clips at opposite ends of the fuse to measure the resistance accurately.

- Make sure there is no dirt or oxidation on the fuse terminals that could affect the reading.

3. Taking the Measurement

With the Kelvin clips properly connected, take the reading:

- Power on the meter.

- Read the displayed resistance value. The milliohm meter should provide a precise measurement free from lead resistance thanks to the Kelvin clips.

Voltage Drop Across the Fuse

For your milliohm meter with a 0-1 ohm range and a measurement current of 100 mA, you can calculate the voltage drop across the fuse using Ohm's Law (U = I × R).

Example Calculation:

1. Voltage drop at 100 mA : 

   - 100 mA = 0.1 Ampere

   - Measured Resistance: 0.004 ohms

   - Voltage Drop: U = 0.1 A × 0.004 ohms = 0.0004 volts (0.4 mV)

2. Voltage drop at current rate:

   - Fuse rating (e.g. 15 Ampere )

   - Measured Resistance: 0.004 ohms

   - Voltage Drop: U = 15 A × 0.004 ohms = 0.060 volts (30 mV)

2. Relative Voltage drop at current rate:

A voltage drop of 0.060 volts is at 12 Volt the relative voltage drop of 100% * 0.060/12 = 0.50 % 

Change in Resistance Due to Heating

When a fuse is subjected to higher currents, it can get hot, causing its resistance to change. This phenomenon is due to the temperature coefficient of resistance, which describes how the resistance of a material changes with temperature. For most metals, resistance increases as temperature increases.

Key Points:

1. Initial Resistance:

 The resistance of a fuse at room temperature is relatively low.

2. Heating Effect: 

As current flows through the fuse, it heats up. The amount of heat generated is proportional to the square of the current (P = I²R).

3. Increased Resistance: 

As the temperature of the fuse rises, so does its resistance. This change can be significant, especially for currents near the fuse’s rated limit.

Example:

If a fuse rated for 1A is subjected to a current close to its limit, it will heat up. The resistance can increase noticeably, potentially doubling or tripling depending on the fuse material and the current applied.

My Measurement Results

For this first test a set of 12 Volt Car fuses (see pictures above) and a 10A fuse with a fuse holder was used.

Table with Results:

Fuse Rated Current Measured ResistanceCalculated
Voltage Drop (100 mA) 
Calculated
Voltage Drop at rated current
Calculated Voltage drop at rated current in % relative to 12 Volt
10A (without fuse holder)10   A 0.0080.00080.080.67 %
10A fuse in fuse holder10   A 0.0070.00070.070.58 %
Brown 7.5 A 0.0090.00090.06750.56 %
Red 10   A 0.0060.00060.060.50 %
Blue15   A 0.0040.00040.060.50 %
Yellow20   A 0.0030.00030.060.50 %
Clear 25   A 0.0020.00020.050.42 %
Green 30   A 0.0020.00020.060.50 %

Interpreting the Results

- Expected Values:

 Typically, a good fuse should have a very low resistance, often just a few milliohms.

- Anomalies: 

If a fuse shows significantly higher resistance than expected, it might be compromised and should be replaced.

Summary

These resistances are measured with the Milliohm meter. I expect all with around the same current of 100 mA. A higher current will heat up the fuse wire and change the resistance and to get real good conclusions other measurements will be needed. 

The measured resistances of these car fuses where very low (below 0.01 milliohm).

I only had two red 10A fuses (and for the other fuses only one) I measured a resistance of 0.0008 and 0.0006 for these fuses (and 0.0007 ohm for the first red fuse using the fuse holder),

The fuse holder did not add a significant resistance.

The lower rated fuses seem to have a slight higher resistance.

Measuring fuse resistance with a milliohm meter and Kelvin clips is a straightforward yet powerful method to ensure the health of your circuit protection devices. Regular checks can help you catch potential issues early, ensuring your electronics remain safe and functional. By investing in this affordable yet accurate setup, you can maintain the integrity of your circuits and prevent unexpected failures.

Stay tuned for more insights and results from my ongoing experiments and measurements. Happy measuring!

Discovering Precision on a Budget: Milliohm Meter with Kelvin Clips

When it comes to precise measurements of low resistance, having the right tools is essential. For electronics enthusiasts, hobbyists, and professionals, a milliohm meter is an invaluable addition to the toolkit. The good news is, you don't have to break the bank to get your hands on one. Today, we're diving into the world of affordable milliohm meters, specifically those that come with Kelvin clips and can be found for around 20 euros online.

What is a Milliohm Meter?

A milliohm meter is a specialized device used to measure very low resistance values, typically in the milliohm range (1 milliohm = 0.001 ohms [ Î© ]). These measurements are crucial in applications where even slight resistance variations can impact performance, such as in high-precision circuits, power electronics, and battery testing.

Why You Can't Use a Standard Multimeter and Need a Milliohm Meter

Standard multimeters, while versatile and useful for many applications, fall short when it comes to measuring very low resistances accurately. This limitation arises primarily because multimeters typically use a two-wire measurement method, which includes the resistance of the test leads and contact resistance in the reading. This added resistance can introduce significant errors, especially when measuring resistances in the milliohm range. Additionally, standard multimeters often lack the sensitivity and resolution needed to detect small changes in low resistance values. In contrast, a milliohm meter, equipped with Kelvin clips, eliminates the influence of lead and contact resistance, providing precise and reliable low-resistance measurements. This accuracy is essential for applications like testing fuses, where even slight variations in resistance can be critical.

The Role of Kelvin Clips

Kelvin clips, also known as four-wire probes, are essential for accurate low-resistance measurements. They use a four-terminal sensing method that eliminates the influence of lead and contact resistance. This is achieved by using separate pairs of leads for current supply and voltage measurement, ensuring that the voltage drop is measured directly across the component under test, free from extraneous resistance.

Why Shop Online?

Online marketplaces like AliExpress, offer a wide range of affordable electronics and tools, including milliohm meters equipped with Kelvin clips. These devices, often available for about 20 euros, might not match the high-end precision instruments in terms of build quality or advanced features but offer impressive accuracy and functionality for their price point.

Features to Look For

When shopping for a milliohm meter with Kelvin clips, consider the following features:

1. Measurement Range:

 Ensure the meter can measure the range of resistances you anticipate working with. Most budget meters will cover a range from milliohms to a few ohms.

2. Display:

 Look for a clear, easy-to-read display. Digital displays with backlighting can be particularly useful.

3. Accuracy:

 Check the accuracy specifications. While budget meters may not match laboratory-grade instruments, look for models with tolerances within 1% for general use.

4. Build Quality:

 While it’s hard to gauge build quality from pictures, look for customer reviews and ratings. This can provide insights into the durability and reliability of the meter.

5. Ease of Use:

 Features like auto-ranging, hold functions, and zeroing capabilities can make the device much more user-friendly.

Getting Started with Your New Meter

Once your milliohm meter arrives, here’s a quick guide to get you started:

1. Calibration:

 Before making any measurements, it's good practice to calibrate your meter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This often involves zeroing the meter using the included shorting clip.

2. Connecting Kelvin Clips:

 Attach the Kelvin clips to the component you're measuring. Ensure a solid, clean connection to avoid any contact resistance that could skew your results.

3. Taking Measurements:

 Power on the meter and take your reading. The four-wire method employed by Kelvin clips will provide a direct measurement of the resistance, minimizing external influences.

4. Interpreting Results:

 Compare your readings with expected values. If you're testing components, ensure they fall within their specified tolerance ranges.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

- Affordability:

 For around 20 euros, these meters provide exceptional value for money.

- Functionality:

 Despite their low cost, they offer the essential features needed for accurate low-resistance measurements.

- Portability:

 Compact and lightweight, these meters are easy to carry and store.

Cons:

- Build Quality: 

Lower-cost meters may not be as durable or robust as higher-end models.

- Accuracy: 

While generally good, they might not match the precision of professional-grade instruments.

- Support and Documentation: 

Sometimes, the instructions and support can be lacking, requiring a bit of trial and error to master the device.

My Milliohm Meter

On Aliexpress i found two versions of the YMC01 milliohm meter.
The 2R model for the 1-1999 mΩ range and the 20R model for the 0.01-19.99 mΩ range.
I decided to go for the 2R, Ordering details will come in my mailbag post, Below is a screenshot of the manual. This is a A4 with on one side the Chinese manual and on the other side the English version.


On this meter there is no special button or something for calibration. I only found in the manual "Inserted 3196 potentiometer, user can do self-calibration." and "Automatically reset to 0". When connecting the two wires the meter displays indeed 0.000. (I expect the potentiometer is inside the housing, i did not yet opened it.)

One of the experiments i want to do with this meter is measure resistance of fuses. I want to make some separate blogposts about the results.

When reading the manual i found an important parameter for this measurement; the testing current: about 100 mA for the 2R and about 10 mA for the 20R. As i have 2R with testing current of 100 mA i will not be able to measure fuses of 100 mA or below as the fuse will blow.

Conclusion

A milliohm meter with Kelvin clips offers an affordable entry point into precise resistance measurement. While they may come with some limitations, these budget-friendly tools are perfect for hobbyists and those looking to add a useful device to their toolbox without spending a fortune. With careful use and proper handling, these meters can provide accurate measurements that meet the needs of various applications. Happy measuring!

Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Why My Next Self-Driving ( Electric ) Car Will Need a Drone

In the rapidly evolving world of automotive technology, the future is not just about electric or self-driving cars. It’s about integrating these advancements with other cutting-edge technologies to create an unparalleled driving experience. One of the most exciting innovations on the horizon is the combination of self-driving electric cars with drones. Here’s why my next car will be a self-driving (electric) vehicle equipped with a drone and what benefits this futuristic pairing can bring.

AI(NightCafe Studio) generated illustration for this blogpost

Enhanced Safety and Security

1. Surveillance and Monitoring:

   - A drone can be deployed to scout ahead on unfamiliar or potentially dangerous routes, identifying hazards such as roadblocks, accidents, or adverse weather conditions, allowing the autonomous vehicle to take alternate routes or prepare accordingly.

   - In parking lots or unfamiliar neighborhoods, a drone can provide an aerial view to ensure the area is safe before the car drops you off.

2. Emergency Assistance:

   - In case of an accident or breakdown, a drone can quickly fly to the scene to assess the situation and provide real-time information to emergency services. It can also project warnings on the road to alert other drivers, significantly reducing the risk of secondary accidents.

   - The drone can be automatically launched in the event of a severe accident, assisting emergency rescuers by providing aerial footage and locating injured passengers, thereby improving response times.

Convenience and Efficiency

1. Parking Assistance:

   - One of the major challenges of urban driving is finding a parking spot. A drone can scout for free parking lots ahead of your arrival, communicating directly with the car to guide it to the nearest available space. This feature can save time and reduce the stress of finding parking in crowded areas.

2. Navigation Aid:

   - When driving through congested urban areas or complex road networks, a drone can provide a bird’s-eye view of the traffic situation, helping the car’s navigation system plot the most efficient route.

   - For off-road adventures, a drone can scout the terrain ahead, identifying the best paths and avoiding obstacles that might be difficult to spot from the ground.

3. Connectivity Enhancement:

   - In areas with poor GSM or internet connectivity, the drone can fly high to act as a communication relay, ensuring that the car remains connected to essential services and navigation aids.

Enhanced Driving Experience

1. Entertainment:

   - For those long road trips, a drone can capture stunning aerial footage of the landscapes you’re driving through, providing a unique perspective and enhancing your travel experience. This footage can also be shared in real-time with friends and family, making your journey more interactive and engaging.

2. Personal Assistance:

   - A drone can be used for personal tasks such as retrieving items from a distance. Forgot your keys at a friend’s place? Your car’s drone can fetch them for you.

   - For the tech-savvy, drones can be integrated with smart home systems, enabling them to perform tasks like checking on your property or delivering items within your home network.

Advanced Communication and Connectivity

1. Vehicle-to-Drone Communication:

   - When your car and drone are in constant communication, the possibilities are endless. For example, the drone can provide live traffic updates directly to the car’s dashboard, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making.

   - In the event of a car theft, the drone can track the vehicle’s location and provide real-time updates to law enforcement, increasing the chances of recovery.

2. Projection Capabilities:

   - In emergency situations, the drone can project warnings or signals onto the road to alert other drivers of hazards ahead. This feature can help prevent accidents and ensure that emergency vehicles can navigate through traffic more efficiently.

Practical Considerations

1. Speed and Charging:

   - The drone, while incredibly useful, cannot fly as fast as the car can drive. Therefore, it will be parked and charged on or in the car when not in use. This ensures that it is always ready for deployment when needed.

   - The integration of a dedicated charging station for the drone within the car ensures it remains operational without requiring separate charging infrastructure.

Future Prospects

The integration of drones with self-driving electric cars is not just a fleeting trend but a glimpse into the future of mobility. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovative uses for this combination. From enhanced safety and security to unparalleled convenience and a more enriched driving experience, the benefits of having a drone-integrated, self-driving electric car are manifold.

In conclusion, the addition of a drone to your self-driving electric car is more than just a high-tech gimmick; it’s a transformative feature that can significantly enhance your driving experience. Whether it’s for safety, convenience, or sheer enjoyment, the drone-car duo is set to redefine what we expect from our vehicles. So, when it’s time to choose your next car, consider one that comes with a drone – it might just be the smartest decision you make.

Exploring Python Data Structures: Lists, Tuples, Dictionaries, Sets, and DataFrames - Part 1 -

Introduction to Python Data Structures

Python, with its simplicity and versatility, offers a plethora of data structures to suit various programming needs. Understanding these data structures is fundamental for any Python programmer to efficiently manipulate, store, and retrieve data. In this series, we will delve into the most commonly used Python data structures: Lists, Tuples, Dictionaries, Sets, and DataFrames. Each part will explore one of these data structures, providing insights into their characteristics, use cases, and code examples.

Overview of Python Data Structures:

Before we delve into the specifics of each data structure, let's briefly overview them:

  1. Lists: Lists are ordered collections of items, allowing duplicates, and are mutable, meaning their elements can be changed after creation.
  2. Tuples: Tuples are similar to lists but are immutable, meaning their elements cannot be changed after creation.
  3. Dictionaries: Dictionaries are collections of key-value pairs, providing fast lookup based on keys.
  4. Sets: Sets are unordered collections of unique elements, useful for performing mathematical set operations like union, intersection, and difference.
  5. DataFrames: DataFrames are two-dimensional labeled data structures, commonly used for data manipulation and analysis, especially in data science tasks.


1. Understanding Lists:

Lists are perhaps the most versatile data structure in Python. They can contain any number of elements of different types and can be easily modified. Let's explore some examples to understand lists better.

Code Example: Lists


# Creating a list of numbers
numbers = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

# Creating a list of strings
fruits = ['apple', 'banana', 'orange']

# Creating a list of mixed types
mixed = [1, 'apple', True, 3.14]

# Accessing elements of a list
print(numbers[0])  # Output: 1
print(fruits[1])   # Output: banana

# Modifying elements of a list
fruits[0] = 'pear'
print(fruits)      # Output: ['pear', 'banana', 'orange']

# Adding elements to a list
fruits.append('grape')
print(fruits)      # Output: ['pear', 'banana', 'orange', 'grape']

Conclusion

Lists are a fundamental data structure in Python, offering flexibility and ease of use. In the next part, we'll explore tuples, another essential data structure in Python.

2. Understanding Tuples:

Tuples are another important data structure in Python, similar to lists but with some key differences. Unlike lists, tuples are immutable, meaning once they are created, their elements cannot be changed. Let's explore some examples to understand tuples better.

Code Example: Tuples


# Creating a tuple of numbers
numbers = (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)

# Creating a tuple of strings
fruits = ('apple', 'banana', 'orange')

# Creating a tuple of mixed types
mixed = (1, 'apple', True, 3.14)

# Accessing elements of a tuple
print(numbers[0])  # Output: 1
print(fruits[1])   # Output: banana

Tuples are immutable, meaning once they are created, their elements cannot be changed. Attempting to modify a tuple or add elements to it will result in an error.

Conclusion

Tuples provide immutability and are useful for representing fixed collections of items. In the next part, we'll explore dictionaries, another essential data structure in Python.

3. Understanding Dictionaries:

Dictionaries are versatile data structures in Python that store key-value pairs. Unlike sequences such as lists and tuples, which are indexed by a range of numbers, dictionaries are indexed by keys, which can be of any immutable type. Let's explore some examples to understand dictionaries better.

Code Example: Dictionaries


# Creating a dictionary of key-value pairs
student = {'name': 'Alice', 'age': 25, 'grade': 'A'}

# Accessing values using keys
print(student['name'])   # Output: Alice
print(student['age'])    # Output: 25

# Adding a new key-value pair
student['city'] = 'New York'
print(student)           # Output: {'name': 'Alice', 'age': 25, 'grade': 'A', 'city': 'New York'}

# Modifying a value
student['age'] = 26
print(student)           # Output: {'name': 'Alice', 'age': 26, 'grade': 'A', 'city': 'New York'}

# Deleting a key-value pair
del student['grade']
print(student)           # Output: {'name': 'Alice', 'age': 26, 'city': 'New York'}

Conclusion

Dictionaries are powerful data structures for organizing and retrieving data based on keys. They are widely used in various Python applications for tasks such as storing configuration settings, caching results, and representing structured data. In the next part, we'll explore sets, another important data structure in Python.

4. Understanding Sets:

Sets are unordered collections of unique elements in Python. They are useful for tasks that require membership testing or eliminating duplicate entries. Unlike lists and tuples, which are ordered collections, sets do not maintain the order of elements. Let's explore some examples to understand sets better.

Code Example: Sets


# Creating a set of unique numbers
numbers = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}

# Creating a set from a list (eliminates duplicates)
numbers_list = [1, 2, 3, 3, 4, 5]
unique_numbers = set(numbers_list)
print(unique_numbers)   # Output: {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}

# Adding elements to a set
numbers.add(6)
print(numbers)          # Output: {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6}

# Removing elements from a set
numbers.remove(3)
print(numbers)          # Output: {1, 2, 4, 5, 6}

Conclusion

Sets are valuable data structures for tasks that require unique elements or membership testing. They offer efficient methods for set operations such as union, intersection, and difference. In the next part, we'll explore DataFrames, a powerful data structure provided by libraries like Pandas for data manipulation and analysis.

5. Understanding DataFrames:

DataFrames are two-dimensional labeled data structures provided by libraries like Pandas in Python. They are widely used for data manipulation and analysis tasks, especially in data science and machine learning applications. Let's explore some examples to understand DataFrames better.

Code Example: DataFrames


import pandas as pd

# Creating a DataFrame from a dictionary
data = {'Name': ['Alice', 'Bob', 'Charlie'],
        'Age': [25, 30, 35],
        'City': ['New York', 'Los Angeles', 'Chicago']}
df = pd.DataFrame(data)
print(df)
# Output:
#      Name  Age         City
# 0   Alice   25     New York
# 1     Bob   30  Los Angeles
# 2 Charlie   35      Chicago

# Accessing columns of a DataFrame
print(df['Name'])   # Output: 0     Alice
                    #          1       Bob
                    #          2    Charlie
                    #          Name: Name, dtype: object

# Accessing rows of a DataFrame
print(df.iloc[0])   # Output: Name        Alice
                    #          Age            25
                    #          City    New York
                    #          Name: 0, dtype: object

Conclusion

DataFrames provide a powerful and flexible way to work with structured data in Python. They offer various methods for data manipulation, analysis, and visualization, making them indispensable tools for data scientists and analysts. With libraries like Pandas, working with DataFrames becomes even more convenient and efficient.

Combinations of Data Structures:

Data structures can also be combined, however not all combinations are possible. 

Table: Possible Combinations

ListsTuplesDictionariesSetsDataFrames
ListsYesYesYesNoNo
TuplesYesYesYesNoNo
DictionariesYesYesYesNoNo
SetsNoNoNoYesNo
DataFramesNoNoNoNoYes

Explanation:

  • Lists of lists, tuples, dictionaries: Possible because lists can contain these data structures.

  • Tuples of lists, tuples, dictionaries: Possible because tuples can contain these data structures.

  • Dictionaries of lists, tuples, dictionaries: Possible because dictionaries can contain these data structures.

  • Sets of lists, tuples, dictionaries: Not possible because sets cannot contain mutable objects like lists and dictionaries.

  • DataFrames of lists, tuples, dictionaries: Not applicable because DataFrames cannot directly contain these data structures.

  • Sets: Exceptional in terms of containing other collections due to immutability and uniqueness properties.

  • DataFrames: Exceptional in terms of being a specialized two-dimensional labeled data structure.

Conclusion

In this series, we've explored some of the most commonly used data structures in Python: Lists, Tuples, Dictionaries, Sets, and DataFrames. Each of these data structures has its own characteristics, use cases, and advantages, making them valuable tools for various programming tasks.

Lists and Tuples are versatile collections that can store multiple elements of different types, with Tuples offering immutability compared to the mutable nature of Lists. Dictionaries provide a convenient way to store key-value pairs, enabling fast lookup based on keys. Sets offer unordered collections of unique elements, useful for tasks that require membership testing or eliminating duplicates. DataFrames, on the other hand, are specialized two-dimensional labeled data structures commonly used for data manipulation and analysis tasks.

By understanding these data structures and their properties, Python programmers can effectively organize and manipulate data to achieve their desired outcomes. Whether you're working on simple scripting tasks, data analysis projects, or complex machine learning algorithms, having a strong understanding of these data structures is essential for writing efficient and maintainable code.

Continue to explore and experiment with these data structures in your Python projects to gain a deeper understanding of their capabilities and learn how to leverage them effectively to solve real-world problems.