Tech Trends
Sam Brown
Microcontrollers and single board computers get specialized as they grow up.Page 16
Make: 68 — Pick Your Brain
In this issue of Make: we break down the latest trends in the world of microcontrollers and single board computers with the latest from Arduino, Google, Particle, and more. You’ll also learn how FPGAs will change the way you prototype with our skill builder on using these ultra-configurable devices. And don’t miss the 2019 edition of the “Make: Guide to Boards” special pullout — compare specs for more than 70 boards to find the perfect one for any endeavor!
On the Cover: A new crop of dev boards provide options for makers.
Table of Contents
Special Section: 2019 Board Guide
State of Arduino
Mike Senese
The Italian boardmakers get serious about FPGA and IoT.Page 20
Meet Arduino's First FPGA
Matt Stultz
The Vidor 4000 combines the performance and flexibility of an FPGA with Arduino's ease-of- use in a small MKR form factor.Page 22
Doubling Down
Billy Rutledge
Google's AIY endeavor leads to a brand new, self-contained board.Page 24
Prop Up Your Project
Caleb Kraft
Add some easy effects with these super specialized expansion boards.Page 28
Prototyping Boards
Use this simple diagram to pick a board for your next project.Page 29
A Brief History of FPGA
David Romano
Get up to speed on using these advanced boards for hobby projects and more.Page 30
Mini Mac
Pedro Ruiz
Print a minute Macintosh SE and stuff a HalloWing inside for retro nostalgia.Page 32
Connecting the Dots
Zach Supalla
How — and why — Particle developed a mesh-networkable line of microcontrollers.Page 34
DIY Swarmbots!
Brandon Satrom
Build a mesh-networked mob of R/C cars with Particle.Page 36
Columns
Reader Input
Notes from readers like you.Page 05
Made on Earth
Backyard builds from around the globe.Page 06
Features
Outsized Upcycling
Keith Hammond
The Monterey Bay Aquarium teamed up with artists to create a life-sized blue whale out of recycled single-use plastic.Page 12
Projects
Construct a Maslow CNC
Bar Smith and Maker Made
Build the unique, upright CNC router that cuts full 4'-8' sheets but takes little floor space.Page 42
Build a Rescue Box
Phil Bowie
Help save lives at your beach or swimming hole - make a tamper-proof box for throwable "Rescue Sticks".Page 48
Electronics Fun & Fundamentals: Jumping Mystery Box
Charles Platt
Use simple sensors to detect 3D motion and trigger movements and sounds, no processor necessary.Page 52
Amateur Scientist: Ionizing Radiation
Forrest M. Mims III
Measure the background radiation in your environment with a Geiger counter.Page 56
Sun-Fueled Fun
Andy Forest
Solar panels + bilge pump = nonstop running water for boats, castles, and water fights!Page 60
1+2+3 Glass Block Night Light
Juliann Brown
Create a decorative glowing art piece that suits your personality.Page 63
Scrappy Circuits
Michael Carroll
Hack dollar-store tea lights to make affordable electronics modules for learning.Page 64
Garden Gizmos
3D-print these gadgets to upgrade your green space.Page 66
Reproducible Ring
Sam Freeman
How one maker designed a custom 3D printed, robot-themed engagement ring.Page 68
Sound Blink
Adhith Marthradikkal
A unique DIY portable speaker and LED light show.Page 70
Skill Builder
Animation Exploration
Eric Hagan
Learn your way around the micro bit by creating moving displays of cutting scissors and exploding fireworks.Page 72
Toolbox
Toolbox
Gear up with reviews of the latest tools and kits for makers.Page 78
Show & Tell
Show & Tell
Dazzling projects from our inventive readers.Page 80
