Monthly Archives: May 2011

Chili Math and a Good Use for Decibels

Posted on May 26, 2011 by

Introduction You never know what you will see when you walk into a guy’s cube. I went to an engineer’s cube with a simple question on some electronic parts and I left with an education on chili peppers. My education … Continue reading →

Posted in Baking, General Mathematics | 2 Comments

The Power of a Simple Magnifying Glass

Posted on May 17, 2011 by

Introduction My favorite radio program is Science Friday. Last week, their web page included an excellent video where Science Friday’s resourceful intern, Flora Lichtman, gave a wonderful explanation behind the use of a lens to concentrate the Sun’s power. Her … Continue reading →

Posted in Astronomy, Fiber Optics | Leave a comment

A Simple Analog Multiplier

Posted on May 16, 2011 by

Introduction I regularly get questions on using solar panels to power our Fiber-To-The-Home gear (FTTH). You might think that sounds kind of odd, but it makes a lot of sense for many businesses and municipalities. For example, every municipality has … Continue reading →

Posted in Electronics | 3 Comments

Learning How Electronic Parts Work (Part 2)

Posted on May 12, 2011 by

I noticed that in my post “Learning How Electronic Parts Work” that I neglected to compare my model to reality. I thought I had better rectify this situation because a year from now I will forget what I did and … Continue reading →

Posted in Electronics | 2 Comments

What is a Hyperbola Doing in There?

Posted on May 12, 2011 by

Introduction An engineer came by my cube and asked me a question about a part we use in one of our older designs. This clever little device is made by Maxim and is called the 3660. This chip is used … Continue reading →

Posted in Electronics | 2 Comments