Free Stuff for EEs
Free Datasheets
Nearly all semiconductor companies will give you data books and CD-ROMS free for the asking. Just visit their web sites and look for a "literature" or "info request" form.
Free Magazines
There are a large number of industry-specific publications to which you can subscribe for free. These are available from TradePub.com in categories such as Biotechnology, Computers, Engineering, Healthcare, Industrial, Internet, Purchasing, Sales & Marketing, etc. Click here for a complete category list.
Free Samples
Most companies are willing to provide sample parts if you ask. However, the following are a few of the best. They allow you to request samples right from their web sites, with few limitations.
Free Software
Compilers:
- Dev-C++ - Win32 C++ IDE and compiler
- DJCPP - GNU C++
- Hi-Tech Software - PIC-Lite Compiler (PICL)
- Rigel - Free 8051 C Compiler/IDE
- SDCC - Free 8051 C Compiler
Data Acquisition:
Microcontroller IDEs:
Power Supply Design Tools:
- National Semiconductor - "Webench" and "Switchers Made Simple"
Text Editors:
Version Control:
Bug Trackers:
CAD
Misc. Freebies:
- Adobe Acrobat PDF Reader
- Inno Setup - Win32 Setup Utility
Free Software
- DesignAids
Design aids and design tools for electrical, mechanical and civil engineering, architecture and construction. A nice collection of freeware and shareware software.
- TheFreeCountry
An outstanding collection of free programming resources. Though not particularly slanted toward embedded systems, there is still a huge number of useful tools here. Of particular merit:
