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The preamp and SPICE simulations I've assembled and tested the preamp circuit board. There have been a couple of problems. I missed one capacitor but discovered the omission and soldered the cap in. The circuit still doesn't function correctly. The left channel is distorted. The board is fragile and cannot be soldered multiple times. I downloaded and installed a simulation program. After I built the circuit in the simulator, I ran some simulations placing short circuits in assorted positions. I finally discovered one that agrees with my predictions on the source of the problem. The process of using simulation software to replace hardware modifications saved a lot of time and wear and tear on the circuit board. The software required a learning curve but the results are worth the effort. The simulator I used was LTSpice, manufactured by Analog Devices.

Preamp and power supply assembled and tested for functionality. A photo below shows the temporary functional mockup. A box for them is on order and arrives early October.

The laptop is a way to take a lot of activities on the road, or trail. I've already mentioned the SDR dongle elsewhere, as well as the definition of a computer dongle. A new kind of dongle arrived in the mail a couple of days ago. This dongle is video oriented and will allow me to watch local television station programming on my laptop. The particular unit I chose is the Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-950Q. The unit comes withe software and hardware to get up and going with your new 'TV'. The company makes several products that perform similarly and that are newer. I chose the 950Q for the low price on eBay. There were no hardware accessories with mine but I don't need most, or can get replacements or substitutes on eBay. I did have to pay for an 'activation key', the company continues to make money from resold and second hand unit sales. The software accessories are readily downloadable from the web. The setup program scans for available stations using what...