Introduction
This post lists alternative non-surface mounted components for version 072 of xSpectre’s handheld spectrometer.
Spectral sensor
As version 072 is intended for having a variety of spectral sensors, the mounting differs dependent on the sensor.
Hamamatsu C12880MA
For the Hamamatsu C12880MA sensor a 14 pin (2*7) DIP IC connection socket is required. Dependent on depth and quality, alternatives include: digikey 2.54 mm, digikey 0 mm (14 individual required per sensor) and ELFA 2.54 mm
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Microprocessor
Version 072 is built on the Adafruit Feather NRF52840 Express microcontroller. It is available from Digi-digikey.
Pogo pin
The bayonet solution requires a 5-pin pogo connector with a 90 degree angle. I have not been able to find that through the ordinary channels I use, instead I ordered a batch of 20 from aliexpress (for approx. 30 USD). These right angle bend spring probes are usually soldered directly the the PCB, Version 07 or the spectrometer, however, requires a larger distance. To achieve that a connection socket is needed. The height of the socket depends on the spectrometer socket and the spectrometer itself, as well as other components. 5 Pos SIP Connections sockets are available from Digikey. To find more alternatives use the search string “CONN SOCKET SIP 5POS TIN”.
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GX12/16 aviation plug and connections
Version 071 of the spectrometer is equipped with a general purpose GX12 aviation plug with 6 pins. I get these from Amazon.se. They need to be manually soldered, but using a prepared cable assembly with 8 Positions rectangular socket that then attaches to the surface mounted connector header.
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Starting with versions 0.72 the GX12 plug is replaced with its larger sibling, GX16. GX16 can hold up to 10 pins, but the design is for 8-pins. The post J3 GX connections gives all the details on the connection of the GX16 expansion.
BNC connector
For the Ion Selective Electrodes (ISEs) (pH, nitrate, ammonia etc) a right angle jack BNC connector is required.
Battery
Finding a battery that fits snugly and comes with 2 pi JST connector, turned out to be more demanding than I anticipated.
Kjell.com has a nearly perfect battery at 1200 mAh, except it is slightly too long, forcing an increased box.
Electrokit.com has a 1500 mAh alternative that has better dimensions. But a bit more expensive.
Best option is maybe Amazon, the Swedish site has some alternatives:
4 pieces @ 1100 mAh for 315 SEK. Or single EEMB, also @ 1100 mAh for 106 SEK. It says that you can get discount on bulk, but I cannot find that.