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Contents Vol.38, No.04 April 2025 11 3D-MID and IMSE 3D-MID (mechatronic integrated devices) and IMSE (in-mould structural electronics) are two similar processes used to create three-dimensional parts with integrated mechanical and electronic functions. By Dr David Maddison, VK3DSM Manufacturing technology 34 The Power Grid’s Future, Part 2 Continuing from last month, we look at how solar and wind generators are connected to the grid to match demand and improve stability. This is done via various types of inverters, with voltage & inertia control for grid stability. By Brandon Speedie Electricity generation 48 Antenna Analysis, Part 3 In the final part of this series, we explain how to calculate the bandwidth of an antenna matching network. Bandwidth is important for antennas, as it determines the range of frequencies at which they are effective. By Roderick Wall, VK3YC Radio antennas 64 Precision Electronics, Part 6 So far we have covered analog circuitry, but nowadays a lot of circuits are designed with digital components too, such as a microcontroller. And these digital/analog signal conversions introduce their own errors. By Andrew Levido Electronic design 24 The Pico /2/ Computer Not to be confused with our previously published Pico Computer from December 2024, the Pico/2/Computer has an HDMI-compatible video output, four USB host ports and is optimised for use with MMBasic. By Peter Mather & Geoff Graham Computer project 58 Rotating Light for Models This simple circuit acts as a rotating LED light display, with adjustable brightness, speed and direction. It’s a flexible project that uses SMD or through-hole LEDs of any colour, and works great with model kits and more. By Nicholas Vinen Model/toy project 72 433MHz Transmitter Module The 433MHz band is good for short-distance communications and does not require a licence. You can build this 433MHz transmitter module that is a drop-in replacement for commercial versions. By Tim Blythman Radio control project 82 Power LCR Meter, Part 2 This isn’t just any old LC Meter; it can deliver currents up to 30A for measuring core saturation of inductors rated up to 1H. And it measures capacitors to 1F and resistors down to small fractions of an ohm. By Phil Prosser Test equipment project Page 11 3D-MID & IMSE Manufacturing Antenna Analysis and Optimisation Part 3: Page 48 Page 58 Rotating Light for Models 2 Editorial Viewpoint 5 Mailbag 20 45 57 Mini Projects 63 Silicon Chip Kits 71 Online Shop 80 Circuit Notebook 90 Serviceman’s Log 96 Vintage Radio 101 Ask Silicon Chip 103 Market Centre 104 Advertising Index 104 Notes & Errata 1. Discrete 555 timer 2. Weather monitor Subscriptions 1. 8x8 RGB LED matrix display with WiFi 2. Interchangeable dual triode valves Astor APK superhet by Jim Greig