Category Archives: Tinkering

RPi CNC Controller

Posted on May 22, 2014 by robertwilkie

This is pretty cool, and could combine a few systems.  But…Its an RPi with an arduino  with a motor shield…. so lets see, $20 for arduino, $35 for the Pi, $5 each stepstick, $10 for power supplies…so around $90..  I … Continue reading →

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Intro to FreeCAM

Posted on May 22, 2014 by robertwilkie

Good video about CAM software that is “free”.  In this case FreeMILL.  I haven’t heard of FreeMILL til now, but it sound like its worth checking out.  From listening to the video, it sounds promising for trying out.  Maybe not … Continue reading →

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Good article on using load resistors with car turn signals

Posted on May 22, 2014 by robertwilkie

Why load resistors, well if you switch to LED, you are going to get a crazy blinking signal.  This will help slow it down to look normal. http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Install-Load-Resistors-for-LED-Turn-Signal-/#more-anchor

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Simple garage door open signal

Posted on May 22, 2014 by robertwilkie

I like this project mostly cause the light indicator is built into the light switch panel, hiding the electronics.  Now I don’t think I would include the buzzer, that would just be too annoying.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZqPcMN7284 http://www.instructables.com/id/Smart-Garage-Door-Open-Indicator/

Posted in Cheap, Misc-Life, sensors | Comments Off on Simple garage door open signal

Building a lawnmower bot

Posted on May 21, 2014 by robertwilkie

Stumbled on this where the author build a solar powered lawnmower robot.  Actually the controller part is solar.  Rest still is gas.  Basically its an arduino controlled robot with 2 wheelchair motors moving it along and the front wheels replaced … Continue reading →

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Build an RPi Security Camera

Posted on May 21, 2014 by robertwilkie

Not so sure about the authors claims that such a camera commercially would cost $1000.  Anyways, for about $110 you could build your own web enabled camera with an RPi.  The instructions are pretty good and the parts are listed … Continue reading →

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Kill robocallers with an RPi

Posted on May 21, 2014 by robertwilkie

Interesting project that combines Raspberry Pi, with Astrisk, and a VOIP phone adapter to kill off Robo-calls.  Basically the RPi answers the phone and filters the calls. https://www.wrbishop.com/telecom/end-robocaller-solicitation-and-hangup-calls-with-asterisk/

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Nice power tool battery to USB converter

Posted on May 21, 2014 by robertwilkie

Nice write-up on building a converter for a Ryobi battery to USB.  Been wanting to do this with my Ryobi stuff for some time. http://www.instructables.com/id/Cordless-tool-battery-to-USB-charger/

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My CNC rebuild, part 1

Posted on May 21, 2014 by robertwilkie

OK I finally got the time to start putting my homebrewed CNC back together.  Times have changed since I took it apart and it sat in the corner.  First up was the Pentium 4 I originally was using for a … Continue reading →

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Use your CNC to make your own keys

Posted on May 20, 2014 by robertwilkie

Why pay $2 and up for a spare key when you can make your own with your CNC.  Well if you already have a CNC that is. The directions are not the greatest on how to do this, but you … Continue reading →

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