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This project combines a GPS receiver module, a Microchip PIC microcontroller and a Secure Digital memory card to make a GPS data logger. With a large capacity and reasonably long battery life it is a very useful device for logging GPS position.
GPS to SD-Card Data Logger - [Link]
Actel has introduced nano versions of its IGLOO and ProASIC 3 FPGAs. The new devices reduce power consumption to as low as 2 mW in standby mode with package sizes as small as 3×3 mm.
IGLOO nano FPGAs provide 10k to 250k system gates and support 1.2-V to 1.5-V core and I/O operations, ultra-low-power Flash*Freeze mode with bus hold capability, and advanced I/O features such as hot swapping and Schmitt trigger inputs. [via]
Actel introduces nanopower, nanosize FPGAs – [Link]
Here’s an inexpensive electronic circuit that you can build to put in your Jack-o’lantern. It provides power to drive a few LEDs at night, and automatically turns them off during the daytime. It’s a simple and automatic dark-detecting circuit that you can use to for your very own photosensitive pumpkin.
Dark detecting circuit - [Link]
XBee modems are one of the easiest ways to create a wireless point-to-point or mesh network. They have error correction, are configured with AT commands, come in multiple flavors and can create a wireless serial link out of the box! I wanted to make a wireless Arduino project but all the adapter boards on the market made me unhappy. So I designed what I think is an excellent low-cost adapter board.
An XBee wireless modem adapter - [Link]
This is a really nice UV light box for making PCBs. It supports double sided boards, has a built in timer, and a safety switch to turn off the unit when opened. Looks like a great alternative to expensive commercial versions. [via]
I’m just toying around with this idea at the moment. If I start using photo exposure PCB type production, I’m probably going to need a light box. I have tried using spray on photo-sensitive resist and exposure to the sun. It was a complete failure. Presensitised boards, and a light box seem the way to go. I haven’t read much about this technique on the web, so I’m still a bit cautious.
DIY: UV Exposure Light Box - [Link]
Now that we listen to MP3s, and watch XVIDs or x264s, a computer is the entertainment center in at least one room of most homes. Unless you have a special HTPC, though, you’re probably stuck using the keyboard to pause, change the volume, and fast-forward through annoying Mythbusters recaps. PC remote control receivers range from ancient serial port designs (who has one?) to USB devices not supported by popular software. In this how-to we design a USB infrared receiver that imitates a common protocol supported by software for Windows, Linux, and Mac. We’ve got a full guide to the protocol plus schematics and a parts list. [via]
Make a USB remote control receiver - [Link]
One of the nice things about flying electric is you can test run your motor in the house, workshop, or in the yard and the neighbors won’t complain. The problem is how to control the speed of the motor. One way is to use the plane, radio, and speed control with the motor in it. That’s no fun! Mount the motor on the bench and just plug the battery into the motor. That’s even worse! It’s hard on the motor and gearbox.
To solve the “It’s hard on the motor and gearbox” problem I made myself an Adjustable Voltage Control unit (speed control) so I can slowly bring the motor up to speed.
Adjustable Voltage motor controller for motor testing - [Link]
Not having touched a PIC for about 18 months, and having been offered some freelance work programming a new PIC device, I needed a quick reintroduction to their architecture, software and little quirks. I ordered a couple of 16F84 devices and looked around on the web for a simple programmer.
The simplest one I could find was a serial port programmer: JDMprog. It uses a small number of low-cost components, and is unique in that it doesn’t need an external power supply, getting its power from the serial port.
Simplest PIC programmer - [Link]
It may be used in many receiver configurations: as a simple DC receiver, binaural receiver, phasing receiver, etc. It’s ideal for use with a DSP system. Since the TUF-1 mixer is specified up to 500 MHz, the module will be suitable for 70 cm. By swapping over the RF and IF connections to the mixer (a couple of track cuts and two pieces of wire), LF and VLF reception is feasible.
DC RX Module – [Link]
Fast charger for NiCd, NiMh, LiPo and SLA batteries
The Universal Charger usage is very easy but some point must be strictly followed in order to avoid any problem in battery and charger management. First read the charger documentation, then follow these recommendations in order to have a good charger usage.
Universal Charger – [Link]
