Bacteria Battery
Microbial fuel cells generate electricity from “metal-breathing” bacteria in ordinary mud.
Drill
X10 Macro Module
One of the most powerful additions to an X10 system is macro capability, where a computer continuously monitors the powerline for trigger signals, and responds by executing a timed sequence of additional X10 commands.
Bottle Radio
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 […]
The Atlatl
Before the bow and arrow there was the atlatl*, or spear-thrower, an ancient weapon that could throw a spear or dart with enough force to penetrate a mammoth’s hide. It was used in North America for about 10,000 years, and used by native Australians and Aleuts as recently as 50 years ago. It’s easy to […]
Yakitori Grill
Get cookin’ with this Japanese-style skewer grill.
Guitar Strap Gamepad
If you’re playing Rocksmith (and I think you should be), and you’re playing standing up (ditto), you have probably run into the “where do I put the controller” problem. The gamepad is required to navigate the menu system between songs, and if you play in a standing position you have to keep a stool or […]
Secret-Knock Gumball Machine
Make a cute candy vending machine that only dispenses treats when you knock the secret rhythm on its front panel.