Silent Jack

I'm inclined to agree with Hero. However, if you are determined to go this route, you might try using inexpensive external card readers. Write a batch file program to copy the test file to each card simultaneously. This way you can load a number of cards, run the automated test on the lot, then swap out for the next set. Short of building custom hardware, this is likely your best option.

I believe a device of this type would be possible, but expensive to operate. It looks like you'd be using multiple pens. Creating a cartesian coordinate linear actuator system will be the easy part. Processing and managing the pens will be the real burden of design. I know of some software that is available for multiple actuator systems as well as a compatible integrated circuit that is quite affordable or even readily available as salvage. I strongly suspect you will need to write a program to translate the images into function for your system though. Do you have any background in programming?

Look up the Eye Writer Project. I think you'll find some useful information.

While there are numerous possibilities as far as feasibility, you also have to consider the local laws and regulations. The FCC regulates what bands can be broadcast on quite strictly and there are stiff penalties for violations. If you want to DJ and share your music, also consider copyright and terms of use agreements. If you own the rights to use the material in a performance format, there are numerous options open to you. Strictly speaking, from the computer alone, there are numerous software packages you can get for free and "broadcast" on a local area network, or stream online. If you wanted to give the LAN based approach a try to feel things out, I can recommend some free software that will work.

Assuming that it is a relatively low powered speaker, you should be fine just connecting the matching leads to it, they should be color coded.

I have several ideas but they are all largely dependent on what you're specifically trying to accomplish. I'm just trying to gather adequate information about your goals so that I can make an effective recommendation.

I'd be interested in how your process works and what tech it entails.

Wake on LAN would likely be of use. Assuming your board is capable.

So are you trying to replace the speaker with headphones, or wire the speaker via headphone wires?

What are you trying to print/plot on the pavement? Is it supposed to be permanent? I have software and some hardware specs for several types of design, but resolution could be an issue without some modifications. They are detailed enough for doing CNC machining for example.

There are numerous methods that could be used, depending on how permanent you wanted the printing and at what resolution. How large an area are you plotting and are you trying to plot "line art" or pixel level pictures?

Basically I was looking to avoid arcing or magnetic inductance negatively affecting other nearby components or traces. Is there a standard recommended separation tolerance for given components?

No, lead acid batteries are far too heavy. I was looking at maybe NiMH or more likely some LiPo batteries commonly used on RC cars and the like. Looking at 3-6AmpH class batteries. Might lean towards 12V, since there is so much standard stuff for that as far as wiring and other components. Safety is of course important and any good suggestions on grounding/shielding are welcome and appreciated.

The Xbee standard of wireless comms is designed to be very power efficient. Though it sounds like you're trying to build a relatively simple security system. There are a number of ways in which this could be accomplished. Could you share some more specifics about your intention and wants?

You could try dividing the voltage and using a capacitor to smooth things our for clearer readings.

There are numerous different models of the PIC MCU and many of them are pretty affordable. Have you tried using the pic to just perform a switching function, and then using an inductor, caps and a 555 to produce the levels you are trying to obtain? The PIC should be able to monitor and control process by tracking a sample voltage that is stepped down to levels it can handle.

I was planning to run the project off a battery. Are flybacks an effective choice when using a battery?

What is the best way to generate a significant voltage, say 10,000 volts; but at a very low amperage, say 0.02? I've looked at a few different basic possibilities, but mostly they take up too much real estate. So perhaps this is more of a question of what is the most space efficient way to do this.

Perhaps he is seeking to remove noise from what he feels is an overly elaborate circuit by using a microprocessor which, theoretically would be able to smooth things out by responding more quickly. Much like generators in cars were replaced by alternators in 120 degree phase to smooth out the fluctuations. Just a thought.

Thanks DerFly! This company you've suggested has some really interesting products. I'll have to look into them in the future for other parts of my projects.

I'm actually researching a replacement for this design that may involve glow plugs from RC aircraft. I think it will be lower maintenance and easier function if the numbers add up.

So are you looking to just add LED illumination around your gauge?

Another thought. How much affect will the inductor have on nearby ICs and semiconductors? Should I do anything to isolate or shield it? And if the affects are significant enough on certain components, what is the most effective way to rearrange them?

Unless it were a topology issue. I'll work on redrafting it and see how it works out.

How about three pronged with a flanged female side?