Ep103: Antennas for Everyone, a Clock Made of Chains, Magic Eye Tubes, and a Little Google Bashing

Hackaday Podcast · 29 Jan 2021 · 48m · Episode 103

What this episode covers

Hackaday editors Mike Szczys and Elliot Williams discuss a variety of hardware hacks, including optimizing NRF24L01+ wireless modules by tuning PCB antennas and building simple dipole or ground plane antennas using tools like a Vector Network Analyzer. They highlight Ben Krasnow’s mouth-controlled guitar pedal, which uses a ramp mechanism and UV-cured adhesive, and Al Williams’ exploration of Magic Eye vacuum tubes as vintage voltmeters. The episode also covers Eka Grot Singh Kalsi’s 3D-printed chain clock, the musical instruments of the band Electronico's Fantasticos, and a retrospective on the Concorde's engineering and economics.

Other shows on the same ground, closest first.

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    314: Why Are Wings Needed in Space?

    Mohit Bhoite, a senior hardware engineer at Particle, discusses his hobby of creating functional free-form circuit sculptures using brass wire and passive components. He explains his process of using templates, EAGLE CAD for schematics, and specific tools like Xuron pliers and CircuitWorks flux to build intricate structures like a TIE interceptor alarm clock. Bhoite also shares insights on material selection, soldering techniques for lead-free solder, and the balance between engineering precision and artistic expression.

  • The Amp Hour · 1h 04m

    Discovering Cursed Connectors

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  • The Amp Hour · 1h 15m

    Space Difficulties and Lost Heroes - Wanzing Workshop Whemmle

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  • Embedded.fm · 1h 01m

    314: Why Are Wings Needed in Space? (Repeat)

    Mohit Bhoite, a Senior Hardware Engineer at Particle, discusses his hobby of creating free-form circuit sculptures using brass wire and passive electronic components. He explains his process of using BEAM robotics principles, EAGLE CAD for schematics, and specific tools like Xuron pliers and CircuitWorks flux to build functional art like his TIE interceptor alarm clock. Bhoite details the challenges of soldering lead-free solder, managing heat dissipation in complex structures, and balancing his day job with his artistic output without commercializing the hobby.

  • Making It · 1h 21m

    474: The Doublemint Gum Remote Control

    Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagett, and David Picciuto discuss their current projects and media consumption habits. David Picciuto is converting a Casio toy keyboard into a Moog-style synthesizer with integrated effects pedals, while Bob Clagett iterates on 3D-printed hinge designs for a magnetic phone charger. The hosts also debate the value of consuming maker content versus creating, with Jimmy Diresta sharing his experience building a light-based Theremin for his college band.

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