EVENT HORIZONS

Resources

Commercial Software

The following software is some of what we use in the course of our business. Some are still available from their respective producers and have our recommendation. If you have any questions about the software and would like our opinion, then please do not hesitate to send an e-mail query.

TraxMaker by MicroCode Engineering. A simple-to-use, yet powerful Windows-based Schematic-capture and PCB layout utility. We currently use use the schematic capture for its easy-to-use simulation capability. The PCB layout is also easy, yet has plenty of capabilities for smaller projects, including a decent Auto-Router. Integrates well with many schematic capture programs. Doesn't have as many features as OrCAD PCB, but has a fraction of the learning curve and requires less than five percent of OrCAD's six thousand plus U.S. Dollars to acquire.

Note: MicroCode was bought out by Protel Ltd. in 1998. At that time we took the opportunity to upgrade to Protel 98, since we had been using their schematic capture for some time. This is an excellent program, but the higher price means that you can compare it to other PC-Based schematic capture and PCB layout applications. The MicroCode products are still available and are excellent for the smaller operator.

Learning and Skill Resources

The following includes resources that a person can use to to learn various skills.
While YouTube is a treasure trove of hands-on videos that you should look into, I find resources like these to be better for my needs.
What is listed here will mostly be static pages with photos and discussions.

If you have any suggestions or questions or if any links become broken or unusable, please do not hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Guide to Soldering Metal, Gold and Circuits. An overview of the basic methods of soldering in the electronics industry.
I received this link from Brendan of New Hampshire and I found the guide to be organized and well laid out.
The guide mostly contains links to other sites, but will be very helpful for both those just learning and those that are trying to improve their skills.

Shareware and Freeware

These items are things that we have used or are still using. Some we aquired from other places, some we wrote. Help yourself!

Journal: A simple, DOS-based utility useful for all those who must keep a regular journal. Uses no TSR memory or resources. Ideal for engineers and scientists working in Aerospace. Originally written in 1991, last modified in 1996. It was intended to be distributed as shareware, but as of 5/10/2000 we are distributing it as freeware. As soon as we locate the source code, we will remove the registration requirement. At this time, if it is not registered, the printed log simply says "unregistered". If you use this and like it, tell us.

Note: the included instructions are intended for DOS mode workstations. In Windows NT/9X, place a shortcut to JOURNAL.EXE in the "Startup" folder. Set to "Close on Exit". We make the presumption that users of this program have a reasonable understanding of how to use computers, including how to edit text files, create and modify shortcuts, etc.

EasyTrax is an easy-to-use DOS based PCB layout program. It can be found at Alberta Printed Circuits, whom we use for most of our short-turnaround PCB work.

FreeCAD is an open-source 3D Parametric CAD package that you can use in both Windows or Linux.
I have used AutoCAD since the the mid 80's and I still do. However, the cost for a regular seat is prohibitive and the license terms for free use do not work for us.
Besides, I am not ready yet to start working "in the cloud".
The most current licensed version of AutoCAD that I have is primarily a 2D design tool.
As such, I am experimenting with both FreeCAD and SolveSpace (see below) for 3D work.

SolveSpace is another open-source 3D Parametric CAD package that you can use in both Windows or Linux.
Live FreeCAD above, there is a bit of a learning curve for those of us that grew up working in the "Paper Space" model.
So far what I have done is build 2D designs in AutCAD and them imported them into SolveSpace to create a 3D parametric model.

Places to go

One of the nice thing about living in southern California is the wide varity of resources for engineers and hobbists of all types.
However, due to the dissapearance of many surplus stores and swap meets, I am going to start adding locations in northern california and other areas as I learn about them.

Electronic Swap Meets

All of these swap meets are free for buyers and very reasonable for sellers. Some ask that sellers be licensed HAM radio operators.

Cable Airport (Was A.B. Miller High School) Amateur Radio Club Swap Meet

Closed.

Chino Hills High School Swap Meet

Closed. Apparantly it moved to Claremont as per Ed's Radio
See below for more

Claremont Amateur Radio Society - Swap Meet

The link to this swap meet was not valid.
The MVARA Radio Club does not seem to be doing it any more. I could find nothing on their pages or their calendar.

Hyperactive Computers Swap Meet (Was ACP)

This swap meet is located in the Hyperactive Computers parking lot, near the corner of Edinger and Standard in Santa Ana.
Because of the distance of the drive, we have not gone to this swap meet in some time. It has alway been an excellent source for electronic surplus. The focus is more on electronics and computers, less on amateur radio then the others.
More Information, including maps and schedule
NOTE: As of 1/4/2024 the link was not working for me. Not sure if they are still operating.

W6TRW Swap meet (Was Northrup Grumman Amateur Radio Club Swap Meet and before that it was the TRW Swap meet)

W6TRW Swap meet Held the last Saturday of each month from 0700 to 1130.
Located in the parking lot on the Northeast corner of Aviation Blvd and Space Park Drive in Manhattan Beach, infront of Northrop Grumman Building R-2.
GPS Coordinates 33.8917933,-118.3774741
Due to the distance of the drive for us, we have not gone to this swap meet in quite some time.

Electronic Flea Market (Northern California)

Held the second Sunday of each month near San Jose.
More information here: https://www.electronicsfleamarket.com/.

Electronic Surplus Stores

These are stores that are usually open regular hours, though some may request you call ahead to be sure. To be listed here, at least 60% of their inventory must be used or surplus non-consumer goods and electronics.
This section is just started, if you have other places to submit, please send them to me.

APEX Electronics

8909 San Fernando
Sun Valley, CA 91352
(Near Burbank airport)
phone: 818-767-7202
Massive, mind-boggling, inventory of used and surplus electronics, wire, motors and hardware at good prices. This is the Mecca, to which all electronic geeks must make a pilgrimage. This store is a favorite of Hollywood crews. It is not uncommon to see production people prowling these isles for ideas and materials. Fair selection of test equipment, though those prices are usually higher.
UPDATE: In 2023 I tried to stop by, but Apex has closed their store to the public. It may be possible to contact them to gain entrance, but my expectation is that we have lost another resource.

C&H Surplus

2176 East Colorado Blvd
Pasadena, CA 91107
Phone: 626-796-2628 (Fax: 626-796-4875)
Excellent, well organized, inventory. Excellent selection of test equipment at reasonable prices. Lots of motors and other electro-mechanical goodies.

Lucky's Hardware (Was Joe Factor Sales)

3814 West Burbank Boulevard
Burbank, California 91505
Phone: 818-845-8338
Primarily surplus avation hardware with an amazing selection of hydraulic hoses and fittings.
They also have a wealth of additional and highly varied items. Not a lot of electronics, but some. Quite well organized and usually a good depth of stock.
A must-stop location whenever I am in the area!

This page was last updated Thursday, January 04, 2024 15:04:24 by Ken Kolbly, K6HIJ.

[Home] [Contact Us]