Category Archives: Tinkering

Simple circuit for auto-power off for USB drive

Posted on December 27, 2014 by robertwilkie

Simple circuit design to turn off an external USB drive when the system using it is turned off. http://dangerousprototypes.com/2013/03/21/auto-poweroff-for-an-external-usb-hard-drive/

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Modifying a projector to use LEDs

Posted on December 26, 2014 by robertwilkie

Author scored a cheap projector off ebay with the only problem being that the bulb was toast.  Bulbs for projectors can run 100-400 dollars (yes for a light bulb).  So he modified it to use a CREE LED.  I like … Continue reading →

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A $150? CNC

Posted on December 22, 2014 by robertwilkie

Nice homebrew CNC that if I total up the parts correctly, runs about $150 in materials. http://www.instructables.com/id/My-Cheap-Handcrafted-CNC-Mill-Unfinished-Prototype/

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Nice example build on using an arduino with bluetooth to talk to Android

Posted on December 19, 2014 by robertwilkie

This was a nice write-up on how to get an android device to talk to an arduino via bluetooth. http://www.instructables.com/id/Aurduino-Android-Bluetooth-Naughty-Nice-Meter-Part/

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Neat hanging clay 3D printer

Posted on December 19, 2014 by robertwilkie

Reminds me of the cement printer.  The authors did a good job making a portable printer for clay.  Could be scaled up too. http://www.instructables.com/id/Sky-Printer-Prototyping-An-Adaptable-Large-Scale-3/

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Build a remote controlled light switch with an arduino

Posted on December 19, 2014 by robertwilkie

I like this build, but…I was thinking, wouldn’t a Belkin WeMo be easier? http://www.instructables.com/id/Remote-Control-Light-switch-ARDUINO/

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Need a design for CNC hold-down clamps

Posted on December 16, 2014 by robertwilkie

This author already has ones you can download, import into Easel, and rip out on your CNC. One commentor asked why not use a tablesaw and just make them.  Well you need to cut it, then make the slots with … Continue reading →

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Build a simple country wall jewelry box for christmas

Posted on December 16, 2014 by robertwilkie

I like this build, its simple and good looking.  It could be adapted for non-country styles too.  You could stain the backboards different colors for example. http://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-Jewelry-Organizer-Wall-Mount/

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This is a nice looking portable table

Posted on December 15, 2014 by robertwilkie

The author did a nice job on this portable table, which is actually a half sheet of plywood.  Not so sure I would make a round one thought….And it would be nice if it stood up a bit taller.  Hummm. … Continue reading →

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A cheap self-powered bike light

Posted on December 15, 2014 by robertwilkie

Using spare parts and an old LED bike light, the author built a self powered light.  Using harddrive magnets, coil from an old relay, and the rear wheel for the generator.  I have seen this build before.  But not so … Continue reading →

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