Contents
Vol.10, No.2; February 1997
FEATURES
4 Computer Problems: Sorting Out What’s At Fault
It pays not to jump to conclusions when your computer plays up. We take a
look at a couple of typical problems – by Greg Swain
66 Cathode Ray Oscilloscopes; Pt.6
Digital oscilloscopes can give misleading results if not used correctly. Here’s
how to interpret the on-screen display – by Bryan Maher
PROJECTS TO BUILD
10 PC-Controlled Moving Message Display
This easy-to-build moving message display plugs into your PC’s parallel port.
You just type the message in on the keyboard – by John Western
COMPUTER PROBLEMS: SORTING
OUT WHAT’S AT FAULT – PAGE 4
16 Computer Controlled Dual Power Supply; Pt.2
This month, we describe the interface board that lets you control the supply
from your computer – by Rick Walters
24 The Alert-A-Phone Loud Sounding Alarm
This very loud ringer plugs in parallel with your existing telephone and is
Austel approved – by Derek Diggles
40 Build A Low-Cost Analog Multimeter
You can learn about multimeters and kit assembly by building this simple unit.
And you’ll wind up with a useful test instrument – by Leo Simpson
BUILD A PC-CONTROLLED MOVING
MESSAGE DISPLAY – PAGE 10
56 Control Panel For Multiple Smoke Alarms, Pt.2
The full construction and installation details are in this month’s issue. Build it
and control up to 10 smoke detectors – by John Clarke
SPECIAL COLUMNS
30 Serviceman’s Log
Don’t monkey with a VCR – by the TV Serviceman
53 Satellite Watch
The latest news on satellite TV – by Garry Cratt
74 Radio Control
THE ALERT-A-PHONE LOUD
RINGER – PAGE 24
How models can be lost through interference – by Bob Young
86 Vintage Radio
The combined A-B battery eliminator – by John Hill
DEPARTMENTS
2
38
54
82
90
Publisher’s Letter
Mailbag
Circuit Notebook
Product Showcase
Back Issues
92
93
94
95
96
Ask Silicon Chip
Notes & Errata
Order Form
Market Centre
Advertising Index
CONTROL PANEL FOR MULTIPLE
SMOKE ALARMS – PAGE 56
February 1997 1