Complete instructions for this episode of Weekend Projects can be found at
http://makeprojects.com/Project/A-Touchless-3D-Tracking-Interface/2233/1
Using a combination of low- and high-tech components, we’ll show you how to build a completely touchless 3D tracking interface. This project will introduce you to the principle of capacitive sensing, and the Arduino microcontroller.
Complete instructions for this episode of Weekend Projects can be found at
http://makeprojects.com/Project/Infrared-String-Bass/2049/1
You’ll convert light to sound in this Weekend Project. Using the LM386 amplifier, and pairs of infrared emitting and detecting diodes, we’ll show you how to build a four-string optical bass guitar. Mount your hardware onto a piece of lumber, or build your own classy chassis. Then, get ready to rock!
Complete instructions for this episode of Weekend Projects can be found at
http://makeprojects.com/Project/Bottle-Radio/2077/1
Crystal radio technology has been around for many years. This “bottle radio” take on a crystal radio requires no power source, operates on the power from radio waves, and receives signal from a long wire antenna. As radio stations slowly move away from the AM band, the “window of opportunity” to experience this remarkable technology is dwindling. The “crystal” in question is contained inside a germanium diode, and is used to rectify the radio signal so that our ears can hear it.
Complete instructions for this episode of Weekend Projects can be found at
http://makeprojects.com/Project/Projects-in-Motion-Control-Three-Types-of-Motors-with-555-Timers/2036/1
Learn to control three different types of motors – DC, Servo, and Stepper – using a breadboard, resistors, diodes, transistors, and some 555 timers (along with a sprinkling of CMOS logic). These motor drivers are the basis of many robotics and other motor-control applications.
Complete instructions for this episode of Weekend Projects can be found at
http://makeprojects.com/Project/Extreme-LED-Throwies/2154/1
Learn to build these simple glow-dots in seconds! LED Throwies are fun, easy circuits that quickly stick to any ferro-magnetic surface. Toss them onto pipes, poles, or other surfaces you want to glow! Modify this simple circuit into a giant throwie bug, or hack an on/off tab into your circuit. We’ll also show you how to build casings for your circuits that are both weather-proof and indestructible! LED Lanterns can be sunk in the ground or dropped in a nearby pond which work, and look great, at night.
Take a look at the project page for more inspiring ideas, including morse code throwies, LED Jellies, and Floaties.
Complete instructions for this Weekend Projects can be found at
http://makeprojects.com/Project/Solar-Joule-Bracelet/22/1
The Solar Joule Bracelet combines two separate projects, a solar battery and a “joule thief,” to build a wearable circuit that powers an LED. Solar energy flows through the photodiodes, building up a supercapacitor, which essentially acts like a battery. This energy is then delivered to the joule thief, where oscillations eventually exceed the LED’s forward voltage, making it light up. Once fully charged, these oscillations will occur so fast that the LED will appear continuously bright, visible even during daytime!
Best of all, this circuit’s design allows you to install it where and how you wish!
Complete instructions for this Weekend Projects can be found at: http://makeprojects.com/Project/Talking-Booby-Trap/1944/1
Having trouble with people snatching your top-secret stuff? Need help getting some privacy? Here’s a sneaky gizmo you can make to keep those snoops away. It’s the Talking Booby Trap: record your personalized message or sound effect, then hide it in a strategic place. When it’s disturbed, the intruders will hear your surprise warning message telling them to “Get lost!”
