Where have you guys ordered part samples from?

[pappasmurfsharem]

Have any of you ordered part samples from any of the chip/part manufacturers before?

If so from whom and what?

[Kesh]

I have used TI's excellent sample program to get an LM3875

[pappasmurfsharem]

I have used TI's excellent sample program to get an LM3875

I'm sampling a few LM13700s.

What did you end up using the LM3875 for? 56W Power Amplifier ehh?

[slacker]

What's the point sampling 13700s? They're cheap and readily available, if you're going to abuse the sampling system at least get something interesting

[pappasmurfsharem]

What's the point sampling 13700s? They're cheap and readily available, if you're going to abuse the sampling system at least get something interesting

Yeah I know, I just did this as a test run since I wasnt sure of the process. Although now it seems simple enough.

I wouldn't know what to look for in all honestly. I basically just build what I need (read want) at the moment, which generally are basic enough circuits.

Any recommendations?

[Kesh]

I'm sampling a few LM13700s.

What did you end up using the LM3875 for? 56W Power Amplifier ehh?

A tube/chip amp hybrid guitar amp. As shown (in pieces) in the pictures forum.

...abuse the sampling system...

For what it's worth, I told them exactly who I was and what I intended to do with the sample. A hobbyist who sells the occasional bit of kit.

A lot of people seem to think that using the TI sample system when you are not intending to ramp up production is unethical. I'm not sure TI agree as they offer samples to students and hobbyists.

I imagine the idea is it costs them almost nothing, but generates goodwill and brand loyalty among those who may one day make bulk ordering decisions.

[merlinb]

I get all sorts of things from:
TI (DACs, audio attenuators, voltage regulators...)
Analog devices (opamps, RMS converters...)
Microchip (PICs!)

[duck_arse]

I ordered samples of toroids from ferronics 10 years ago, and they sent me 2 bags of 30 each, to australia, gratis.

now, if I can only work those inductance calculations .....