Magic smoke electronics refers to the phenomenon when electronic components or circuits fail and release a smoke-like substance. This "magical" smoke is actually caused by overheating of the components or a short circuit. When a component gets too hot, it can cause the surrounding insulation or resin materials to burn and release smoke. The term "magic smoke" is often used humorously to describe a situation where an electronic device or circuit has been damaged beyond repair. It is a lighthearted way of explaining that the device had magic smoke in it, which has now escaped. One of the most common causes of magic smoke is a short circuit.
Narrow pitch Ball Grid Array (BGA) devices and Small Outline Transistor (SOT) components are efficient in minimizing system area. Resistors and capacitors smaller than 0201 dimensions are becoming more commonplace for new designs. However, without proper solder pad openings and spacing on the layout, their small solder footprint can lead to bridging and cold solder joints. A review of the solder screenprint for the system PCB should be completed against the assembly requirements to eliminate layout issues stemming from poor solder connections. Although layout tools should flag design rule violations for spacing issues, specific assembly challenged areas may need to be added to your ruleset. Your CM can review the assembly equipment spacing capability against your design to mitigate these solder pitch issues.
A review of the solder screenprint for the system PCB should be completed against the assembly requirements to eliminate layout issues stemming from poor solder connections. While nominal system conditions are pleasing for performance reasons, the minimum and maximum scenarios cannot be ignored since they will be a required use case.
One of the most common causes of magic smoke is a short circuit. This occurs when there is an unintended connection between two points in a circuit, causing an excessive current flow. The excessive current heats up the components, causing them to burn and release smoke.
First mention in print of "magic smoke" (electronics)?
In electronics, "magic smoke" is the stuff that lets components work: once the magic smoke leaves the component, the component ceases to work. What is the earliest reference in print to "magic smoke"? Internet posts don't count. The Jargon File v2.8.1 (1991) mentions Jay Maynard referencing magic smoke, so I'm looking for print references prior to 1991.
Follow 161k 35 35 gold badges 416 416 silver badges 743 743 bronze badges asked May 8, 2016 at 1:09 Robert B Robert B 429 3 3 silver badges 7 7 bronze badges My guestimate of when I first heard the expression would be about 1985. May 8, 2016 at 1:27The joke was along the lines of: Did you know that computers run on smoke? They stop working when the smoke gets out. (The idiom "smoke test" goes back much further -- I'm sure I heard it and used it in the 70s.)
May 8, 2016 at 1:30 Are you asking about the phrase, or the phrase with reference to electronic components? May 8, 2016 at 3:19 The phrase with reference to electronic components. May 8, 2016 at 18:24I can't provide any references, but the basic concept certainly dates back to at least the mid-1970s. When powering up new electronic circuits one of my colleagues (ex Royal Navy) routinely said "Switch to custard and tune for minimum smoke". I didn't encounter the concept of magic smoke until some time in the 1980s.
Jul 30, 2022 at 16:11Short circuits can be caused by various factors, such as faulty wiring, damaged components, or incorrect circuit design. Overheating can also cause magic smoke. When electronic components operate outside their specified temperature range, they can overheat and potentially release smoke. This can happen due to excessive power dissipation, poor thermal management, or inadequate cooling systems. Magic smoke can be a significant problem, as it signifies irreversible damage to electronic components or circuits. Once the smoke is released, it is often a clear sign that the device or circuit has failed and needs to be replaced or repaired. In some cases, magic smoke can even lead to fires or explosions, posing a safety risk. To prevent magic smoke, it is essential to ensure that electronic components are used within their specified ratings and operating conditions. This includes keeping track of the power dissipation, temperature range, and voltage limitations of each component. Proper thermal management, such as heat sinks, fans, or cooling systems, can also help prevent overheating. In conclusion, magic smoke electronics refers to the release of smoke caused by overheating or short circuits in electronic components or circuits. It is a humorous term used to describe irreparable damage and serves as a reminder to handle and operate electronics safely within their specified limitations..
Reviews for "Exploring the Ethereal: An Introduction to Magic Smoke Electrobics"
1. James - 2 stars - I attended a Magic Smoke Electrobics class yesterday, and I have to say it was a complete waste of time. The instructor seemed uninterested and didn't explain the exercises properly. The whole experience felt rushed and chaotic. I didn't feel motivated or energized after the class, instead, I left feeling frustrated and disappointed. I don't think I'll be coming back to Magic Smoke Electrobics anytime soon.
2. Emma - 1 star - I had high hopes for Magic Smoke Electrobics, but it turned out to be a total letdown. The music was too loud and it felt more like a night club than a fitness class. The exercises were poorly organized, and the instructor didn't provide any modifications for beginners or those with injuries. I left the class feeling sore in all the wrong places and without any sense of accomplishment. Definitely not what I was looking for in a workout.
3. Mark - 2 stars - I attended two sessions of Magic Smoke Electrobics, and both times I left feeling disappointed. The class was overcrowded, making it difficult to follow along with the instructor's moves. Additionally, the exercises seemed repetitive and lacked variety. I didn't feel challenged or engaged throughout the sessions. The only positive aspect was the energetic atmosphere, but that alone doesn't make up for the lackluster workout. I won't be returning to Magic Smoke Electrobics in the future.
4. Laura - 1 star - Unfortunately, Magic Smoke Electrobics didn't live up to the hype for me. The class was overbooked, and I could barely find space to move around. The instructor didn't give clear instructions, and I often found myself confused and struggling to keep up. It felt more like a chaotic dance party than a structured workout. Moreover, the exercises were repetitive and didn't provide a challenging workout. Overall, a disappointing experience that I wouldn't recommend to others.