2022-06-29

The round one

As previously blogged, I created an NFC RFID reader based on the PN532 NFC chip.

It works well, and includes red/amber/green LEDs and tamper switch and even contacts for a "door bell". This makes it ideal for access control.

But I decided some cases may look better with a round modules. So I wrote code to measure track lengths in KiCad PCB files, and then code to make a spiral track, which I made the same length, and then made a round version of the same thing.

It works. It worked first time. Indeed, the solder paste and cook worked first time - no re-work - no glitches - just worked. I am really pleased.

One of the small tweaks was around the reverse mount LEDs which used to tombstone in the oven - that is all fixed nicely now.

Other changes are that the connectors are all SMD now to make the other side "clean".

Which leaves me wondering if I should add a logo or something on that side. I am really not sure. I also think purple solder resist may be nicer. The main thing is I want a distinctive appearance / brand that can compete with elechouse on Amazon. Suggestions welcome.

Of course, what is super frustrating is that these are all prototypes - I cannot really make commercially until the global component shortages are sorted and I can actually order 100 of the PN532 or indeed anything else! Once sorted, I plan to put these on Amazon.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Comments are moderated purely to filter out obvious spam, but it means they may not show immediately.

Adults must show ID to use social media

The stories in the press are " Children must show ID to use social media ". This is totally misleading. "Passes please":...