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Archive: Something I want to learn to do...
June 27, 2008
How To: Macro photography of coins
This website goes into great detail about the process of photographing coins. Yes I know, coin photography is a very small field, but these techniques can be used to photograph any small object.
Learn more about Macro photography of coins
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Jun 27, 2008 02:00 AM
Photography, Something I want to learn to do... |
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June 24, 2008
DIY: Rotational molding
This seems like a fairly inexpensive and easy way to get into making your own hollow cast parts. Unfortunately there isn't a how-to, but between this video, and the "related" post below, you should be able to make your own. If there is enough interest from our readers I could always do a "Build: Your own rotational molder" for the blog?
About 20 dollars worth of Fisher Price Construx from ebay A drill (DeWalt's fit nicely, but anything should work) A few wood screws to hold down the Construx A piece of scrap wood
More about DIY: Rotational molding
Related:
DIY Rotational Molding
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Jun 24, 2008 02:00 AM
DIY Projects, Something I want to learn to do..., Toolbox |
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June 12, 2008
Electroforming an Iris Seed Pod
This was on my list of "Things to do for MAKE" and after seeing this Instructable, I just may cross it off. This is a great how-to with lots of pictures and instructions. You can have a lot of fun electroforming all sorts of cool stuff for your next project.
Read more about Electroforming an Iris Seed Pod
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Jun 12, 2008 03:00 AM
Arts, Instructables, Something I want to learn to do... |
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June 11, 2008
Build: Heron's fountain
This week I am actually going to be making something that does not require electricity. Although, you may be able to fool people into thinking it does. We are going to be making Heron's fountain out of common household materials. This is a really easy build and would be a perfect project for to build with your kids. Maybe you could even sneak in a lesson on fluid dynamics or perpetual motion?
Heron (Hero) of Alexandria was a mathematician and an inventor. He is well known for his steam engine, the Aeolipile, and many other inventions that use pneumatics. (wikipedia) I am going to try and recreate one of my favorite inventions by Heron, the "Heron Fountain".
Read full storyPosted by Marc de Vinck |
Jun 11, 2008 01:00 AM
DIY Projects, Kids, Science, Something I want to learn to do... |
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June 5, 2008
Piano Tuning: Deceptively Simple
This is a great way to save a few bucks if you own a piano. I switched to digital, and although the sound isn't as rich, it's always in perfect tune.
Piano tuning is a surprisingly simple process, though clothed in mystery by those "in the know." When I wanted to learn how to tune my piano, I could not find information on the web that clearly explained how to do it without insisting I buy a book or take a course.
Learn how to Tune your own piano
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Jun 5, 2008 12:00 PM
Music, Something I want to learn to do... |
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How to make a robot for about $50
Here is a really well documented robot build that is based on an ATmega8 AVR chip. The web site has detailed build instructions that include everything from making the chassis to programming the AVR chip.
More on How to make a robot for about $50
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Jun 5, 2008 10:05 AM
Robotics, Something I want to learn to do... |
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May 28, 2008
Build: No solder LED clock kit from the Maker SHED
This is a really easy project for anyone to tackle. All it takes is about an hour of your time and some patience. You can pick up your own DIY clock kit from the Maker Shed. It is available with red or blue LED's. Lets jump right in.
What you get:
Everything you need is included in the kit. You even get some extra LED's in case you make a mistake or break one during the build. I needed an extra!
Tools you need:
All you need is a bit of tape and some needle nose pliers. The instructions also say to have a small screwdriver for inserting the LED's, but I found using the needle nose pliers a lot easier to use.
Step 1: Attach the jumper wires
Tape down the (5) un-insulated wires to the panel. That's it!
Step 2: Add the (5) insulated wires
The next step is to add the (5) insulated wires. They are color coded to match the printing on the panel that is supplied with the kit. Simple.
Step 3: Add some LED's
Start out by adding the LED's in groups (junctions), according to the color sections of the board. Make sure you get the polarity right, I messed one up, and it was a pain in the neck to locate. The (+) lead on the LED is longer and should be inserted next to the triangles printed on the board.
Step 4: More, and more, and more LED's
Keep adding the LED's in the color groupings. There are 24 total junctions! Twist together each junction according to the directions. Don't forget to include the matching color from the power supply. You can add the power supply wires anywhere, just as long as it is in the same color section. It can get a bit monotonous, but the end results are worth it.
Step 5: Program
There is an easy way to verify all the connections. It is as simple as holding down the button on the power cord and clicking it 24 times to make sure each pair of lights comes on. I had one set that was not working, I eventually found that 1 LED was inserted wrong. We all make mistakes. Now all I have to do is make a cool case for it. Any suggestions?
The LED clock kit is available from the Maker SHED.
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
May 28, 2008 01:00 AM
DIY Projects, Kids, Kits, MAKE Store, Something I want to learn to do... |
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May 22, 2008
Arduino XPort shield build - Part 1
In this build I am going to be making the XPort shield that is available from LadyAda's web site. The shield will allow you to connect your Arduino to the Internet and check your email, interact with Twitter, send SMS messages, and a whole lot more.
I was inspired from the book "Making Things Talk" by Tom Igoe. It is a great read for anyone interested in micro-controllers, specifically the Arduino. Tom's book, and the Arduino, can be purchased in the Maker Shed.
Don't forget to check out the LadyAda website for the complete build instructions, including programming examples and a forum.
What you need:
This is a really easy soldering project. All you need are the basics:
- Soldering Iron
- Flux core Solder
- 3rd hand tool or circuit board holder
- Diagonal pliers
- De-soldering tool (Hopefully you don't need this!)
- XPort Shield Kit - Available from the LadyAda website
- Arduino Diecimila PLUS USB Board - Available at the Maker Shed
- XPort - Available from GridConnect
Step 1: Solder The Components
Wondering what that red thing is? It's my Candy Tin Fume Extractor that I made a while back for the MAKE blog. I am happy to report it still works great!
I combined a lot of the steps outlined in the Ladyada tutorial since it is such an easy build. Basically I added as many components as I could fit without the leads touching. Then I soldered them in, clip the leads, and added a few more components. In the above picture I am almost done with the 3.3 voltage regulator.
Step 2: A little more soldering
I added the electrolytic capacitors during the next wave of soldering, along with the reset button and programming headers. These all soldered up really fast.
Step 3: Adding the male headers
To attach the XPort shield to the Arduino, you need to solder in 2 rows of male headers. To do this, place the male header pins into the Arduino and solder the first and last pin of each header to the XPort shield. This will hold them in place, and create perfect alignment for the rest of the soldering. Next, remove the shield from the Arduino and finish soldering all the male headers.
Step 4: Add the female headers
I decided to add female headers to all the remaining solder points. This will allow for faster prototyping for my next project. I really don't want to hard wire anything yet, and the female headers will allow me to change the wiring on the fly. It can be a bit tricky to hold the headers in place, but once you tack one pin, they are easy to solder.
Step 5: Program and use it
You have several choices when it comes to programming your new XPort shield. I chose to use DHCP and Telnet to program the board. You can follow all the directions from the LadyAda website. They cover all the different programming methods, including the "wire hack" version.
After I successfully used Telnet to change the settings, I uploaded the XPort library and the sketch to the Arduino. I was greeted by a pleasant "Goodnight Moon", just what I wanted to see.
At this point, it's a good idea to read Making Things Talk. They cover much more about using the XPort than I could ever in this post. I know I am going to read it a few more times before I tackle the next phase of this project.
In Part 2 of this build I will be using my new XPort Shield to interact with a website. The Arduino will use the data collected to drive some servos and a few other fun things. Keep an eye out for part 2 on the MAKE blog.
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
May 22, 2008 01:00 AM
Arduino, DIY Projects, Electronics, Something I want to learn to do..., Wireless |
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May 13, 2008
HOW TO - Grow shiitake mushrooms
Jenny @ CRAFT writes:
Heavy Petal has a great tutorial showing how to drill an alder log and fill it with mushroom spawn-laced wooden plugs to create a super-cool log that will eventually sprout shiitake mushrooms galore.
My favorite is the last step: "Then you make omelettes."
Posted by Becky Stern |
May 13, 2008 09:00 PM
Science, Something I want to learn to do... |
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April 21, 2008
All about Charlieplexing LEDs
Too few pins, too many LED's? It's a common problem when working with micro-controllers. You might want to try a technique called "Charlieplexing". This is a great instructable that describes how to implement this technique on your next project.
Learn all about Charlieplexing
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Apr 21, 2008 01:00 AM
Electronics, Something I want to learn to do... |
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April 8, 2008
How to : Metal casting
This is a really great how-to on casting metal for your next project. The article is presented in 2 parts, the theory and the application. Make sure to check out part 2, since that is where all the cool stuff happens.
Learn to cast metal - Part 1, Part 2
Related:
Learn about Casting metal LEGOs
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Apr 8, 2008 10:45 AM
DIY Projects, Something I want to learn to do... |
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Brass Etching for Beginners
This is a fairly easy way to etch metal for your next steam-punk project.
There have been many articles written on this subject covering the process of photo-etching, however I would like to describe how I have made use of a different technique which makes the whole process of home etching a much easier undertaking as it does NOT require any photographic steps.
Learn more about Brass Etching for Beginners
Related:
How to : Electrolytic Machining of Brass
How to : Electrolytic etching of brass for Moleskin notebooks
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Apr 8, 2008 02:00 AM
DIY Projects, Something I want to learn to do... |
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April 2, 2008
How to: Candy tin fume extractor
A fume extractor uses an activated carbon filter and fan to remove the smoke, and noxious fumes, created from soldering. The average price of a small hobby version is about $100, this one will run you about $10. This fume extractor will not be as effective as a larger one, but it is better than nothing, and extremely portable. Remember, always work in a well-ventilated area.
Parts you need:
(1) 7812 - Voltage regulator
(1) Candy tin
(1) Switch
(1) 40 mm case fan
(2) 9-Volt batteries
(2) "Cheap" 9V battery connectors (see step 2 & 3)
(2) Pieces of screen
(1) Piece of activated carbon filter
Some heat shrink tubing
A few inches of Wire
Rosin core solder
Miscellaneous screws and washers
Paint (optional)
Tools you need:
Soldering iron
Dremel with cutoff wheel
Drill & small drill-bits
Fine tip marker
Various Screwdrivers
Wire cutters
Safety glasses
Step 1 : Build the circuit
I decided that that a quick mock-up might be a good idea. I am glad I did. At first, I thought that running the case fan off of just (1) 9-Volt would provide adequate power. In the end I decided that 12 volts "sucked" better, and in this case it's a good thing.
The final circuit uses a simple switch, (2) 9 volt batteries, a 40mm case fan, and a 7812 voltage regulator. The 7812 takes voltage from the (2) 9-Volts that are wired in series and steps the voltage down from 18-Volts to 12-Volts, which is what the fan requires.
Step 2 : Solder components
Notice the battery connectors; they are the flexible vinyl version, not the hard plastic type. This allows them to easily fit in the case.
This is a very simple circuit. Solder it according to the diagram, making sure to attach the component leads to the 7812 properly. Don't forget to use heat shrink tubing on the connections, this is in a metal box.....metal conducts electricity!
Step 3 : Make sure it all fits
Everything can be stuffed into the tin, but make sure you use the cheap kind of 9 volt connectors. The cheap ones are the kind made of vinyl, not rigid plastic. The difference in thickness is minimal, but it is enough to stop you from putting both 9 volts in the case.
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Apr 2, 2008 03:00 AM
Altoids and tin cases, DIY Projects, Electronics, Something I want to learn to do..., Toolbox |
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March 26, 2008
Making the RuntyBoost
The MintyBoost has been a very popular project here at MAKE, most likely because it is a perfect kit for anyone interested in learning to solder or electronics. It also happens to be very useful for anyone who owns an iPod or any type of MP3 player that is charged via USB. This is my little how-to, with a few extra twists.
The things you need:
- MintyBoost kit - available at the MAKE store
- Soldering Iron
- Rosin core solder
- Altoids tin or any other small tin - available in the MAKE store
The things you don't need, but are great to have:
- Arms of Assistance - Make you own
- Helping hands for holding your parts
- Fume extractor
This is not a detailed step-by-step build of the MintyBoost, but rather it's a how-I-made-one, and what I learned. If you buy the MintyBoost kit, make sure to check out the LadyAda website for the complete, and very detailed, step-by-step build instructions.
Step 1 : Take inventory
Spread out all the parts and make sure everything is there, and familiarize yourself with the parts. You can compare them to the parts list on the LadyAda website.
Step 2 : Parts placement
I chose to place, and solder, a lot of the components all at once. If you are new to soldering, or a bit rusty, you may want to only tackle a few parts at a time. I put everything, except the resistors and the IC holder, in and bent the wires so they would stay in place while soldering. Make sure you follow the polarity of the electrolytic capacitors (C2) and (C3) and the diode (D1).
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Mar 26, 2008 03:00 AM
Altoids and tin cases, DIY Projects, Electronics, Kits, Something I want to learn to do... |
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February 2, 2008
Electrolytic Machining of Brass
There is another interesting post over at The Steampunk Workshop, this time about Electrolytic machining of brass. The results are varied, but very promising. With a little more experimenting, this could be a viable DIY alternative to hand cutting, CNC, EDM or lasers. - Link
Related:
Electrolytic etching of brass for Moleskin notebooks - Link
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Feb 2, 2008 03:00 AM
DIY Projects, Something I want to learn to do... |
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January 28, 2008
Aluminum welding, on the cheap
Have you ever wanted to weld some aluminum, just to discover the cost of a new MIG/TIG welder is a little too expensive? Don't forget about the tank of shielding gas you are going to have to buy. As you may remember, from those late night infomercials, Alumaloy could be the answer. It is an easy way to weld aluminum, with no flux or shielding gas, and only requires an inexpensive tank of propane or MAPP gas, easily purchased at your local hardware store. Then again, there is always JB Weld for those down and dirty connections.
Alumaloy is available from several online vendors, some seem a bit sketchy, so you might want to just pick some up from ebay express - Link.
Related Links:
- HTS - 2000 (Expensive version of Alumaloy) - Link
- How to weld using flux core wire - Link
- All about JB Weld - Link
Posted by Marc de Vinck |
Jan 28, 2008 02:00 AM
Something I want to learn to do..., Toolbox |
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November 15, 2007
Simple PIC VGA tester
Chris made this excellent tutorial on creating a VGA test box with a PIC microcontroller. He writes:
For quite some time I've been wanting to create a device that outputs VGA signals. My main goal was of course to be able to display whatever I wanted on the monitor I was currently using. The goal of this project is to create a device that is capable of outputing VGA signals to a CRT monitor inorder to display figures, text and characters. This will be done using a Microchip PIC microcontroller at 4 MHz clock speed. The programming required to achieve the VGA timing signals must be done in low level assembly because of the high level of precision that is necessary. The hardware assembly is just basic buttons, switches & wire that you can purchase from local electronics stores.PIC VGA test box tutorial - [via] Link.
Posted by Becky Stern |
Nov 15, 2007 06:00 AM
DIY Projects, Electronics, Something I want to learn to do... |
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September 26, 2007
Carboard box lamps
I really like these cardboard box lamps, you could make your own versions with an exacto knife or get real fancy and stamp/laser cut out the shapes... - [via] Link & more.
Posted by Phillip Torrone |
Sep 26, 2007 12:00 AM
Arts, Something I want to learn to do... |
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September 19, 2007
Help Sally with a generator
Sally writes in -
Hi- I wondered if you might be able to help me find a way (if there is one) to construct a backup battery power system for keeping household appliances (fridge), lights, etc running for some time in the event of an emergency (I live in L.A.). Any suggestions? To purchase these things already made is quite expensive. Thanks, Sally.Here's a start! - Link.
Posted by Phillip Torrone |
Sep 19, 2007 10:00 AM
Green, Something I want to learn to do... |
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August 29, 2007
Home carbonation system
Kevin Kelly published a tutorial on making your own carbonated beverages by Alastair Ong.
In this really terrific tutorial he writes,
"I drink a lot of seltzer. So much that my fiancee says I couldn't survive without bubbles in my water. After trying a SodaClub home soda maker (picture above right) and realizing it would cost $70 to buy a special part for it, I found a really detailed resource for building my own, simple home carbonation system for under a $100 using a CO2 tank, regulator, hose and a carbonator cap. It took ten minutes to build. I love having very good homemade soda on the cheap and not having to lug around seltzer bottles or worry about it going flat. With a scuba-like tank in the kitchen, guests always ask "What is that?!" and I really love demonstrating."
Home carbonation system at Cool Tools - Link.
Posted by Becky Stern |
Aug 29, 2007 06:00 AM
DIY Projects, Something I want to learn to do... |
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