Cool Gadgets

DIY Ethernet Picture Viewer

   This is a proof of concept project that contains lots of great code and helpful tips that could help us out when we are working on a similar Ethernet / microcontroller project. Project abstract (pdf)  Entire Project Details (zip) The “Ethernet Picture Viewer” is a low cost device that allows a user to visualize graphic content stored on a computer in an LAN. A server application that runs on

RFID Beer Cooler Lockdown

  The Revision 3 show Systm has been on and off since it was introduced many years ago. It looks like it’s now here to stay so we can expect to see videos on a  regular basis. Patrick Norton will be joined by  David Calkins which should make the shows very interesting and informative. This episode talks about installing a RFID lock in your bar fridge, the locking mechanism is

DIY Push Pull Tube Amp Build

  This DIY Push Pull Tube Amp Build doesn’t need a circuit board since everything is done using point to point wiring. If you open up some old equipment such a TV or stereo you will see that this type of wiring was the norm. It is hard to believe that this was the way mass produced equipment was constructed. "Initially I started with 6EU7 tubes in the preamp stage

Car Drives on Walls or Ceiling using internal Vacuum

  This car that drives on walls using a vacuum is a very cool concept. By using a internal vacuum pump this car can stick the a wall or ceiling and still have enough slippage that the wheels can drive it around. I am sure the designers had to work on the optimal level of vacuum for a long time. Too much and it would not move with the wheels

Hard Disk Drive Laser Shutter

  Medix has been working on some interesting projects but as some of you know I have a soft spot for hard disk drive projects. By removing the drive motor and platters there was room to install a shutter in the center. The voice coil that normally moves the read/write head is then used to actuate the shutter open and closed. It can be connected to some external control equipment

Learning to ride a Self Balancing Unicycle

  In this video David Martschinske learns how to ride the Self Balancing Unicycle. You might remember when this product was introduced. When are we going to see these everywhere? They are going to make an initial run of 10 for $1500 so if you want one you better act fast. "The SBU is an electric self-balancing unicycle. It controls the forward and backward balance while the rider balances left

Arduino Rotating LED Display

How can you own a LAN party? Make your own rotating display that will buzz off the fingers of those who dare come too close. 🙂 “Here my Making of the Arduino Wireless POV. Starting from an old floppy disk enclosure and a old CD-ROM box. Im using a compatible arduino board. Featuring automatic calibration with a IR sensor to detect loop start and adjust letter width (timing). Very simple