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
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”.
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.
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.