Projects

Parts Counting Scale

Posted: Tue, 20 Feb 2018

Scales capable of counting parts are a dime a dozen across Amazon these days. The problem with them is that not a single one supports a connection to a computer. As part of a larger project for inventorying parts I wanted a scale that was able to connect with host software to save me from inputting readings and calibration. So I picked up one of those cheap scales and started hacking.

Remote Controlled Outlet

Posted: Mon, 19 Feb 2018

This project uses an ATmega328P microcontroller to receive inputs from an infrared (IR) receiver to control a set of four relays. The relays in this project are used to switch each of the outlets in a quad box on/off. This allows line-level devices to be remotely switched on or off with an infrared universal remote control.

Reverse Geocache Puzzle

Posted: Tue, 14 Nov 2017

The reverse geocache puzzle was made famous by Mikal Hart. I saw his design in Make Volume 25 some time ago and decided that I was going to eventually build one of these devices. The box contains a mechanical latch mechanism that holds it closed and a GPS module to know it’s current location. The latch will only be released when the box is carried to a specific, predetermined location.

Nordic Fob Revival

Posted: Fri, 10 Nov 2017

Several years back SparkFun made a really cool product that they referred to as the Nordic FOB. The product is now “retired” (i.e. not for sale) but the schematics are still fully available for download along with the source code so I decided to resurrect the device and build some myself.