Joule Smasher Led FLasher - Flat CR2032 Results

So this trial was meant to be testing a NEW CR2032 cell. I initially expected it would last about 2.5 years. So imagine my surprise after 90 days when the voltage was dropping quickly:

Close inspection of the battery revealed it was not one of the new batch I had brought. Rather, it was probably the battery I changed out of a car or garage remote. Like my eyesight, my memory fails me!

Anyway. I'll let it run for another day or two till it stops then put in a fresh new battery. It is encouraging that a flat battery ran for over 3 months since it makes my estimate of 30 months from a CR2032 cell look readily achievable.

Meanwhile, the AA battery just keeps powering along on track for 10 years of life. 

 

Update - my maths was wrong. A new CR2032 should last perhaps 6 months. And a fresh AG3 cell perhaps 28 days. 

The Rat Flasher - Is it actually killing Rats?

The premise behind the Rat Flasher was it would scare rats off leacing our roof space free of vermin. For some time now there hasn't been any noticeable activity. However, two dead rats have been detected by the smell. 

While I would prefer eviction over death I'm not concerned by the rats death. But I am puzzled by the deaths. Are the rats having a seizure? Are there still old baits in the ceiling?  I don't know but I am certain of one thing: the Rat Flasher has in practice eliminated rats in our ceiling. 

A version with 360 degree coverage is being constructed and a suitable solar panel found to recharge the battery. This should allow for a permanent maintenance free installation. Pictures in a few days.

Reflow Soldering with Ferrex Mini Gas Soldering Iron

The more I use this tool the happier I am with my purchase. Here is an example of reflow soldering a STM8S part which will naturally be running STM8eForth. 

Before soldering I bump some solder on the pads, shown below. Note pins 2 and 7 have an "Ear" of solder which I removed with my soldering iron tip before placing the IC.

With a small amount of flux smeared over the pads I place the IC and then use the Ferrex tool as a hot air pencil to reflow the solder. Result before removing flux below:

The part has reflowed nicely and just needs the flux cleaned off. Something to do when I finish the rest of the board.

Even though the proper hot air gun is within easy reach I often reach for the Ferrex tool. It is cordless, has in practice no air flow to blow parts around and is easy to wield. But the results are the same.