In the previous tutorials, we discussed sequences and unordered collections in Python. We also learned about operations, functions, and methods applicable to them. There can be more complex data structures in an application. The data values in these data structures can have a complex relationship and behavior. These data structures are defined as user-defined classes…
RPi Python Programming 09 – Python Sets and Dictionaries
In the previous tutorial, we discussed manipulating data values in lists and byte arrays. Python also has mutable unordered collections like sets and dictionaries. Let us see how data values/objects in sets and dictionaries can be manipulated. Sets Sets are unordered mutable collections of items. The items in a set can be any arbitrary immutable…
RPi Python Programming 08 – Python Lists and Byte Arrays
In the previous tutorial, we discussed basic syntax and elements of Python language. In Python, there are six types of sequences – strings, bytes, byte arrays, range, tuples, and lists. The strings, bytes, range, and tuples are immutable sequences and cannot be modified once defined. It is only possible to create or destroy these sequences.…
RPi Python Programming 07 – Python Basics (Continued)
In the previous tutorial, we discussed the syntax of Python — identifiers, keywords, comments, statements, literals, and some data types in Python. We also discussed that Python is object-oriented in that everything in Python is an object, and even data types are classes. Python objects can be mutable or immutable. Python objects that point to…
RPi Python Programming 06 – Python Basics
In the previous tutorial, we discussed the Python language, its applications, implementations (CPython, Jython, IronPython, and PyPy), and IDEs. We also discussed writing Python scripts and modules and learned to run Python scripts through IDLE and Bash shell. Before we jump to controlling hardware via Python scripts, it will be useful to have a strong…
RPi Python Programming 05 – Introduction to Python
In the previous tutorial, we successfully set up a Raspberry Pi Linux desktop. Let us now start learning Python. We could have jumped right to controlling hardware using Python scripts, but this will defeat the very purpose of using Raspberry Pi and a Very-High-Level-Language (VHLL) like Python to control electronics. We can easily control electronics…
RPi Python programming 04 – Setting up Raspberry Pi Linux computer
In the previous article, we discussed the role of an operating system. We explored about Linux as a popular open-source operating system that can be used and modified to be used for desktop, mobile, server, cloud, mainframe, supercomputer, cluster, and embedded computing. Raspbian, the official OS for the Raspberry Pi itself is based on Debian…
RPi Python Programming 03 – Raspberry Pi as Linux System
In the previous article, we discussed various Raspberry Pi models. We also discussed situations in which particular models deem suitable. Most of the time, you will be using RPi as a Linux computer. Raspbian, the official operating system for Raspberry Pi itself is a variant of Debian OS (a Linux Distribution). There are other operating…
RPI Python Programming 02 – Raspberry Pi Models
In the previous tutorial, we discussed what Raspberry Pi is, operating systems we can run on it, programming languages that can be used with it, the advantages and limitations of Raspberry Pi, and what Raspberry Pi can be used for. We also learned about other single board computers comparable to the RPi. The following models…
RPi Python Programming 01 – Introduction to Raspberry Pi 4
Raspberry Pi is a credit-card-sized single-board computer developed by Raspberry Pi Foundation. It was developed as a low-cost microcomputer to impart computer skills to school children. It comes without any power supply or peripherals, and it is supposed to be programmed in Python — the reason for the ‘Pi’ in its name. Raspberry Pi (RPi)…
Basic Electronics 29 – How to choose a battery
In the previous articles, we discussed types of batteries and different battery packs. Many embedded circuits and devices rely on batteries for a power supply and many of these devices use primary batteries that may need to be replaced. Other embedded devices are rechargeable and use secondary batteries to remain powered. It is not difficult…
Basic Electronics 28 – Geometries and standard sizes of batteries
In the previous tutorial, we discussed different types of batteries. Apart from reusability and battery chemistry, how a battery is packaged is an important factor, as it should be accommodable in a device without compromising safety norms. The geometry and size of a battery also plays a vital role in its application to a circuit.…
High time to switch to 3G/4G modems
2G networks will be soon a thing of the past, as will the GSM/GPRS modems based on it. In the past few years, 2G modems such as the SIM800 and SIM900 from SIMcom have been popular in embedded systems, particularly hobby projects. As the telecom sector moves forward, 4G has pretty much become the norm.…
Basic Electronics 26 – different types of power supplies
In the previous articles, we discussed passive electronic components like resistors, capacitors, inductors, and transformers. The passive components are particularly useful in designing various analog circuits. The real fun of modern electronics begins with semiconductors and digital electronics. Electronics is all about signals (in the form of voltage or current) and processing signals by components…
Basic Electronics 25 – Types of transformers by use
In the previous article, we discussed the classification of transformers by core material, geometry, and voltage levels. The transformers can also be classified by their application and use. Let’s explore the two broad categories of use cases first – transformers used in the electrical domain and transformers used in the electronics domain. The transformers used…
Basic Electronics 24 – Types of transformers
In the previous article, we learned about the basic concepts of a transformer. A transformer is simply a pair of inductors magnetically coupled to enable electromagnetic induction between them. With the help of transformers, AC voltages can be stepped up or down at low costs without any hassle. Stepping up or down DC voltages requires…
Basic Electronics 23 – Practical Guide to Transformers
In the previous articles, we learned about resistors, capacitors, and inductors. When discussing inductors, we had talked about mutual inductance, which is the result of magnetic coupling between two inductors. If two inductors are used in a circuit to function as ‘inductors,’ this mutual inductance or any magnetic coupling between the two inductors is generally…
Basic Electronics 22 – Reading inductor packages
We have already learned about working with, types of, and applications of inductors. In the previous article, we have previously discussed selecting an inductor for a given circuit or application. For picking up the right inductor, it is important to know about reading inductor packages. There are many types of inductors that come in a…
Basic Electronics 21 – How to select an inductor
In the previous tutorials, we discussed the basic concept of an inductor, properties of an inductor, and different types of inductors. Now it’s time to know how to select an inductor for a given circuit. Fortunately, different types of inductors are designed to suit specific applications. So, for any given application, either there is exclusively…
Basic Electronics 20 – Types of inductors
In the previous tutorial, we learned about the different properties and characteristics of Inductors. These specifications are useful in determining the efficiency of an inductor in a circuit. Manufacturers supply inductors for application-specific categories including RF chokes, power, high current, and high-frequency. So, choosing an inductor is quite simple compared to resistors or capacitors (which…