Category Archives: Tinkering

Write-up on parts you can get out of a CDROM drive

Posted on August 26, 2014 by robertwilkie

Most of the stuff I knew about, but I typically toss the motor that actually spins the disk since it since I never really figured out to do with them, well apparently the author found another write-up that tells you … Continue reading →

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Using Peusdo TV with XBMC for channel surfing

Posted on August 26, 2014 by robertwilkie

Interesting add on to XBMC, the PesudoTV app that is.  It allows you do semi-surf youtube and other “stations” like a TV.  Vs current solution that is slow and requires going up and down selections.  I plan to try this … Continue reading →

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Build a night vision camera with an old CCID security camera

Posted on August 25, 2014 by robertwilkie

Cool build.  I could do this myself with what I have in parts. http://www.instructables.com/id/Homemade-Night-Vision-Infrared-Goggle-Scope-DIY-CC/

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Simple binder clip LED throwie

Posted on August 22, 2014 by robertwilkie

Simple build off of the old LED throwie concept.  Nice thing here is a built in on/off switch. http://makezine.com/projects/led-binder-clip-bling/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=%24%7Bfeed%7D&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+%24%7Bmakezineonline%7D+%28%24%7BMAKE%7D%29&utm_content=%24%7BGoogleReader%7D

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I can see the custom local deliver apps already

Posted on August 22, 2014 by robertwilkie

Uber just opened up its API’s to developers (have to sign up from the looks of it) to use its services.  I can just see the next wave of apps that use this now.  Instant local flower delivery perhaps.  Could … Continue reading →

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How to un-dumbify Ubuntu

Posted on August 22, 2014 by robertwilkie

I have to agree with most hardcode linux users, ubuntu has gone a little to far “simplifying” the UI (gnome).  However there is a nice write-up below how to add stuff back in to ubuntu. Me…I switched to Mint. http://www.howtogeek.com/194900/use-these-tools-to-change-settings-removed-from-ubuntu-and-gnome/

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PC variable speed battery powered fan

Posted on August 21, 2014 by robertwilkie

Nice build with a controller for the fan.  Not so sure I would use a 555 for this, but whatever works right.  Looks like $8 in parts (assuming the fan is free).  But if you are like me, you already … Continue reading →

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Hack 22 Internet of Things

Posted on August 21, 2014 by robertwilkie

Cool video from defcon (only 1/2 way thru right now).  They authors are going thru a bunch of different hacks to get into firmware and such of embedded devices (different ones) to control them.  Some require physical access to UART … Continue reading →

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Bluetooth Stepper Motor controller

Posted on August 20, 2014 by robertwilkie

The author took a stepper our of a printer, a home built arduino, a bluetooth module, and make a wireless stepper controller from it.  Me…I think basic RF might be a cheaper route to go. http://trandi.wordpress.com/2013/04/17/stepper-motor-bluetooth-serial-driver/

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A carpet drawing bot

Posted on August 20, 2014 by robertwilkie

I got a kick out of this,  the author basically build a bot that can “draw” on the carpet by rubbing on it as its moved across the carpet.  Clever idea. http://gizmodo.com/this-clever-carpet-printer-brushes-pictures-onto-your-1622164024

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