Author Archives: M. Eric Carr

Microcode

Every so often, you come across an idea that is truly brilliant. Such ideas can sometimes make complex, expensive problems seem trivial. The idea of microcode is one such idea. In order to work its magic, the* Central Processing Unit(CPU) … Continue reading →

Posted in Design, Digital | Leave a comment

Geomagnetism

With a compass, some wire, and a power supply, the Earth’s magnetic field can be measured. Here’s how. Continue reading →

Posted in Electronics, Fundamentals, Science | Leave a comment

Your Amplitude May Vary

When is a volt not necessarily a volt? When it’s an output amplitude from a signal generator which doesn’t measure its own output… Continue reading →

Posted in Analog, Digital, Drexel, EET201, EET202, Electronics, Tools | Leave a comment

Granddad’s Altimeter

One of the most interesting mementos that I have from my grandfather is a surplus mechanical altimeter from the early days of United Airlines. It was an unusual object for a kid to see on someone’s bookshelf — even given … Continue reading →

Posted in Aviation, Nostalgia, Science | Leave a comment