Instructables user dnewman used his EMSL Eggbot rotary plotter to print an accurate nutrition label on the side of a raw egg. A delightful and otherwise fairly useless thing to do. I heartily approve. [via adafruit]
Chumby guts go together easily, but the b&w instructions included left me scratching my head the first time around. Here’s my second build, after I got all the parts right. http://www.makershed.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=MKCH1
5mm or 10mm LEDs will work just fine for most projects, but if you really want to light up a room, consider using some of the high-power variety. With forward currents up to a full amp, you’ll need a way to dissipate heat – but the results are very much worth the extra effort.
Every useful electronics project deserves a good enclosure. Providing a proper case for your circuit can protect it from accidental spills & falls – plus give it a cool look you can proudly show off to those unfamiliar with soldering and such.
Follow along with Collin as he turns a barebones function generator kit into a sturdy and versatile tone-box fit for noise-jamming & testing purposes. Get more info and a parts bundle: http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2010/04/circuit_skills_electronics_enlosure.html
http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2010/06/circuit_skills_perfboard_prototypin.html
When you think – “DIY electronics”, one of the first images that likely comes to mind is a bunch of parts and wire soldered to a standard piece of perforated circuit board – and that makes sense. Perfboard is super-versatile – essentially it’s just a grid of potential solder-point connections. You can trim it down to just the size you need – or leave extra space for future enhancements … or revisions, if need be.
Learn the basics of controlling a grid of LEDs, then use one as a miniature game machine and more, as Collin Cunningham takes a look inside the LED Matrix.
http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2010/08/circuit_skills_surface_mount_device.html
Join Collin Cunningham as he explores the oh-so-tiny world of surface mount electronics. Follow along as he constructs what may be the world’s smallest phototheremin all in super-macro detail – plus learn why adhesive poster putty is so darn useful.
