Electronics & Beyond (September 2001)

Written by: Pete Luckhurst

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Time to read 1 min

In the September 2001 issue of Electronics & Beyond, a diverse range of topics are covered, from the legal intricacies of copyright and intellectual property as outlined by Jonathan Aldred, to the cautionary tale of the dot-com bubble's burst by Gregg Grant. The magazine maintains its commitment to DIY enthusiasts with projects like the Mains Switching Timer and the Ultimate Cat Feeder by David Ponting, and an ultrasonic proximity sensor by Robert Penfold, encouraging readers to engage with electronics at a practical level. Additionally, the issue delves into microelectronics with features on Sharp's all-in-one electronic vendor chip and an intriguing robot project from Germany by Jens Altenburg.


Table of Contents

Featured Articles

  1. Copyright & IP: Jonathan Aldred discusses the complexities and potential pitfalls surrounding copyright and intellectual property rights.
  2. Dot Coms Failure: Gregg Grant examines the reasons behind the failure of dot-com businesses and the lessons to be learned.
  3. Constructor's Corner: A new section dedicated to electronic DIY enthusiasts, offering a range of projects and components.

Projects

  1. Mains Switching Timer: David Ponting shares a homemade alternative to commercial mains timers.
  2. Ultimate Cat Feeder: Avoid leaving your cats hungry with David Ponting's innovative feeder project.
  3. Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor: Construct a sensor using colorful bricks in this project by Robert Penfold.
  4. CAT Solar Controller: Practical application of solar technology for efficient energy use.

Microelectronics

  1. Optoelectronics Part 1: Ray Marston introduces readers to the lesser-known aspects of optoelectronics.
  2. Squeezed Molecules: Reg Miles explores the fascinating world of molecular technology.
  3. Sharp - A Complete Electronic Vendor on a Single Chip: An overview of Sharp's innovative all-in-one chip solution.
  4. Willi Robot: Jens Altenburg from Germany showcases his unique robotic creation.

Regular Features

  • News: The latest developments and updates from the world of electronics.
  • Peter Brunning's Public Diary: Personal insights and musings from a key figure in the electronics community.
  • What's On: Upcoming events and happenings for electronics enthusiasts.
  • Bookshop: Recommended reading for those interested in electronics.
  • Product Review: Evaluations of the latest electronics products on the market.
  • Air Your Views: A platform for readers to share their opinions and thoughts.
  • Event Review: Coverage of recent events in the electronics world.
  • Web Electronics: A guide to online resources for electronics enthusiasts.
  • Short Story: "Polaric and the Shaman" by Jonathan Aldred, blending electronics with storytelling.
  • Tech Watch: Keeping an eye on emerging technologies and trends.
  • Beyond Belief: Fascinating and unusual stories from the electronics realm.

About the author

Pete Luckhurst is a Website Manager at Maplin.

After getting an early start in the world of computing with C64 & Amiga computers, Pete now spends much of his spare time in PC VR and dabbling in game development. He also has a strong interest in film, photography and music.

Among other endeavours, he previously worked in a Maplin store, so it was a no-brainer when the opportunity arose to work on the modern incarnation of Maplin online. Besides writing for the blog, Pete works alongside the Maplin team to help keep the online store running smoothly.