MSP-430 LaunchPad UART and FIFO

I just put the finishing touches on my extensive UART and FIFO library. It uses the MSP430G2553 chip which has a hardware USCI. This can be used for a hardware UART. There are a couple different options to choose from and versions with or without a FIFO.

I will be making a standalone FIFO library so one can be used to store data.

edit: The standalone FIFO library is there now. Not fully tested but should work.

X-Tronic SMD Hot Air Rework Station #4040

First an announcement! I just added a Tools section to the site. The goal is to help new hackers and hobbyist find inexpensive but good equipment.

This is my experience with the X-Tronic SMD Hot Air Rework Station #4040. It is a dual hot air and solder station. I ordered it on Amazon for $140. I chose the X-Tronic over similar stations in this price range for the fact that it has a dual LED read out of the temperatures and had a better looking/more comfortable soldering iron. It also comes with a 1 year warranty against any faults or problems with the unit.

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