Category Archives: Tinkering

Tutorial on using HC-SR04 (ultrasound)

Posted on March 11, 2016 by robertwilkie

A simple write-up on how to use a simple, and very common ultrasound sensor with an arduino. http://www.instructables.com/id/Very-Simple-HC-SR04-Connection-to-Arduino-Example/

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Simple vibration sensor

Posted on March 11, 2016 by robertwilkie

This is on my list to do.  A simple circuit where the “vibration will move the wired spring to touch the resistor.  Thus closing the circuit (triggering an event).  Pretty simple build and easier to do than using other sensors. … Continue reading →

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Ha, make a simple door alarm

Posted on March 11, 2016 by robertwilkie

This project was a bit on the overkill, but still clever.   I think you could get away with an ATiny instead. http://www.instructables.com/id/Arduino-Theremin-Door-close-Reminder/

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Print out a simple key holder paracord gizmo

Posted on March 10, 2016 by robertwilkie

Interesting gizmo.  The 3D printed part acts as a sleeve for a key, and can be wrapped with paracord.  Why?  Well good stuff to have in an emergency (kindof like duct tape). http://www.instructables.com/id/Paracord-3D-Printed-Key-Protector/

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Make your own solderless magnetic connectors

Posted on March 9, 2016 by robertwilkie

Nifty build.  Me…I think I will just solder on the wires to a connector.  Still if I wanted to make a custom connector, maybe put an LED inside it for feedback…this would be the way to go. http://www.instructables.com/id/Homemade-DIY-Magnetic-JackPlug-for-Any-Purpose-No-/

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Another mini arduino plotter

Posted on March 9, 2016 by robertwilkie

Seems to be a trend of these being built lately. http://www.instructables.com/id/Mini-Arduino-Plotter-Without-a-Servo-Motor/

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Viper, now Zerynth,is Python for Embedded

Posted on March 7, 2016 by robertwilkie

I stumbled on this by accident.  Apparently Zerynth/Viper is an embedded systems, well IoT oriented, version of Python.  I don’t know much more on it but I am bookmarking it for future looksee. Viper, the Python IoT Development Suite, is … Continue reading →

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Great, maybe we should look at retraining what we have first?

Posted on March 7, 2016 by robertwilkie

I love these articles that talk about the “shortage” in STEM.  I remember a good article that pointed out the claims for “shortage” have been around since the late 1800s.  Anyways the article goes on and one about educating the … Continue reading →

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Good short video tutorial on steppers

Posted on March 4, 2016 by robertwilkie

Well worth watching, only 15 minutes long Get Really Basic With Steppers and Eight Buttons

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Hacking an EL Wire controller for an Arduino

Posted on March 4, 2016 by robertwilkie

Basically the author hacks the switch and power supply for an EL Wire controller so the arduino triggers it, and it uses the same power supply between the two.  Nice build.  I have a bunch of EL Wire from RadioShack … Continue reading →

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