Ian Johnston, an expert in calibration and repair, discusses topics such as the PDVS2mini DC Voltage Calibrator Source, production, China, CERN, ebay reselling, test gear, pick and place machines, assembly, automated test systems, and YouTube repair videos.
Ian Scott Johnston transitioned from the oil industry to become a full-time YouTuber, dedicating his time to electronics and creating the PDVS2mini voltage reference source.
Ian's repair videos stand out due to his teaching background, detailed explanations, and circuit insights, providing informative and engaging content for viewers.
CERN relies on the PDVS2mini for accurate measurements of their superconducting magnets, showcasing the tool's precision, reliability, and importance in calibration.
Deep dives
Ian Scott Johnson's journey from the oil industry to becoming a full-time YouTuber
Ian Scott Johnson, a former oil industry contractor, recently transitioned to being a full-time YouTuber. After growing tired of the oil industry, Johnson immersed himself in electronics and found his passion reignited. Although he initially started on YouTube as a hobbyist, his channel gained traction, leading him to create the PDVS2mini voltage reference source. This transition allowed him to dedicate even more time to his workshop, although it meant working long hours away from his family. His workshop, located in a converted garage, serves as the hub for his repair videos and manufacturing of the PDVS2mini.
Ian's repair videos and commitment to explaining the process
Ian's repair videos have gained popularity, thanks to his teaching background and dedication to explaining the repair process. As a former workshop technician and R&D manager, Ian incorporates his expertise and experience into his videos. Rather than simply showcasing quick repairs, he takes the time to provide background information, circuit insights, and explanations, making his content more informative and engaging for viewers. Although his repair videos require more time and effort, Ian finds joy in sharing his knowledge and helping viewers understand the intricacies of electronics repairs.
Ian's PDVS2mini and its applications in precision calibration
Ian's PDVS2mini voltage reference source has become a sought-after tool for hobbyists and professionals alike. Its precision and low temperature coefficient make it ideal for multifunctional calibration purposes. One notable customer of the PDVS2mini is CERN, the organization behind the Large Hadron Collider. CERN uses the PDVS2mini to test the analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) in their superconducting magnets. With the potential for explosions if current-carrying magnets become resistive due to cooling issues, the accuracy and reliability of the PDVS2mini are crucial for ensuring precise measurements. Ian's commitment to quality manufacturing and testing, including thermal cycling, provides customers with a reliable and precise tool for their calibration needs.
Calibrating the PDVS2 Mini
The podcast episode discusses the process of calibrating the PDVS2 Mini, which is a high-precision voltage standard. The host explains how he runs batches of 50 units on his workbench for 10 days, using multiple power supplies to handle the significant amount of current generated. The heat in the workshop becomes almost unbearable due to the accumulation of heat from all the units. After the baking process, the host proceeds to calibrate each unit by hand, which used to take a significant amount of time. However, he has now automated the calibration process using software and test routines, greatly reducing the time and effort required.
Challenges and Solutions in the Assembly Process
The podcast also discusses the challenges and solutions in the assembly process of the PDVS2 Mini. The host shares his experience of hand assembling the PCBs, which takes about four days for 50 units. He highlights the need to maintain a consistent temperature in the workshop during the process to ensure accurate calibrations. The host also mentions his struggle with limited workshop space. He has considered using a pick and place machine, but the cost and learning curve have discouraged him from pursuing it. Instead, he plans to continue hand assembling the units due to their complexity and custom components. Additionally, the host shares his storage challenges and how he organizes parts and components in binders and drawers.
Dave and Ian Scott Johnston discuss the PDVS2mini DC Voltage Calibrator Source, production, China, CERN, ebay reselling, test gear, pick and place machines, assembly, automated test systems, and Youtube repair videos.
