Tag Archives: Customer Projects

Parental Control V-Chip – What is it and how does it work?

Parents are concerned over the type of programs their children watch on the television and would like to exercise their control. They do not want their children watching programs with excessive violence or sexual content. Since it is not possible to be always present when the children are watching TV, it is best to have a device automatically detecting the type of program coming through, and blocking it if it is objectionable. All television sets made and sold in the US after 1999 have a special Read more [...]

Anti-static electronic component storage bins!

Great deal alert! We're parting with some of our static dissipative stacking bins - taking them out of service in our warehouse. There's still plenty of life available in these bins so grab them while you can at 60% off the price of new bins. The bins are perfect for storing all your sensitive electronic components and supplies. Also ideal for a warehouse environment where you need some ESD protection. Here are the larger size bins: Large Anti-Static Stacking Bin And here are the medium Read more [...]

New radial electrolytic capacitor assortment available!

By popular request we've added an additional radial electrolytic capacitor assortment to our lineup of available products. Like our other capacitor kits, this assortment has a big range of capacitances and voltages supported. And like our other assortments, every value is individually bagged and labeled. But here's where this kit differs from our other previous kits - we are now able to provide a list of manufacturers and temperature ratings for this assortment so you can be sure that the Read more [...]

How to wipe a hard drive clean

If you are donating, disposing of or selling anything that contains a hard drive, chances are that drive should be wiped clean before it leaves your hands. Even if the hard drive has failed, special equipment can read a hard drive which could expose your private and confidential information to the next owner. So what should you do before your dispose of your equipment with a hard drive? There are several methods that are recommended by the experts. Here is an explanation of two of them: 1 - Read more [...]

Solder Sucker for Desoldering – New product alert!

We're always adding new electronic components, parts and supplies to our inventory. This week, one of our new products is a solder sucker, which is a 'must have' for anyone that works with electronics and solder. Crafted in Germany by Amax, this solder sucker is a pump style solder remover. Use it on heated solder to remove the solder from your boards and components. It comes in the original manufacturer's packaging with instructions for the use and care of your solder sucker. Here are some Read more [...]

What are breadboards?

Breadboards are a simple solution for circuit building, especially when you need to prototype or test a circuit. Constructed of plastic, a solderless breadboard contains hundreds of spring-loaded connection sockets (also called tie points) which connect the leads for through-hole electronic components and 22 AWG wire to form an electronic circuit. One key feature of breadboards is that they require no solder to connect your components making testing or prototyping a circuit very quick and painless. How Read more [...]

Solar energy can help sell your home

Anyone who is trying to sell a house knows that some improvements like adding a new bathroom or a complete kitchen renovation may increase the value of a home however most people might not consider that an investment in solar panels or other renewable energy sources may be another positive investment in their home. According to a study that was recently published by the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER), solar photovoltaic (PV) panels added on average between 3 percent and 4 percent Read more [...]

West Florida Components in the community making LED Throwies

West Florida Components was recently invited to participate in a science experiments fair held in conjunction with the USF Education Department. Each business staffed a booth where elementary school aged kids along with their families could conduct science experiments. The community event was an opportunity for families to enjoy and see the benefits of science in a fun atmosphere. The West Florida Components station was one of about 18 stations at which participants could interact and have Read more [...]

Survey finds that web users are sloppy with passwords

A new survey commissioned by Webroot confirms that web users are still putting their identities at risk by not employing some simple strategies for password safety and protection. So what did the survey reveal about web users and why are these findings an issue? 40% have shared passwords with at least one person in the past year Sharing passwords with a trusted friend or family member may seem like a non-issue because you trust the person you're sharing it with, but they may leave it lying around Read more [...]

When Does A Small Business Need A Server?

If your small business uses more than one computer to manage its business, you may be ready to upgrade to a small server to efficiently run your business. Keep in mind that adding a server to your business is not a huge expense - in fact you can get started by putting an unused desktop computer to work, but the rewards go beyond the financial concerns. Here's how to recognize the signs that it's time for you to invest in a server for your small business. - Has your business grown beyond Read more [...]