Category Archives: explaining theory

CuVoodoo #033 – power (X)OR knowledge



identifying micro-USB cables:
Have you ever plugged in a device using a micro-USB cable and wondered why you can't see it on your computer? We will see the different types of USB cables, and why this can happen. And to avoid using the wrong one, I build a gadget identifying micro-USB cables.

documentation get gadget source files watch on other devices (youtube)


Published: 2021-09-15 by King Kévin

CuVoodoo #031 – controller impersonation



identifying STM32F103C clones:
The STM32F103C micro-controller has become so popular that you can find plenty of pin and code compatible clones. The issue is when they pretend to be genuine STM32. We will see how to identify counterfeit STM32F103C, using the top marking, decapsulating the silicon die, but also from inside with a firmware which will check the value and behavior of some registers.

source files watch on other devices (youtube)


Published: 2021-02-27 by King Kévin

CuVoodoo #019 – time to spark!



real power vs. apparent power:
We all know voltage times current is power, real power, but don't forget the time component since the RMS values will only give you apparent power, and this is by a power factor different.

watch on other devices (youtube)


Published: 2016-12-24 by King Kévin

CuVoodoo #018 – sparks! unite and vanish



introduction to 3-phase 4-wire power distribution:
After showing the tools used to protect myself against the sparks coming out of mains we will see the magic behind three-phase four-wire power distribution and why my custom electricity meter, the spark counter, cannot be used for such installations.

watch on other devices (youtube)


Published: 2016-12-03 by King Kévin

CuVoodoo #001 – how to identify electronic components



some tricks to identify electronic components on printed circuit board assemblies

source files watch on other devices (youtube)

The IC logos I collected are available here.

additional links:


Published: 2014-09-09 by King Kévin