Ep 283: Blinding Lasers, LEDs, and ETs

Hackaday Podcast · 9 Aug 2024 · 1h 02m · Episode 283

What this episode covers

Hackaday editors Elliot Williams and Al Williams discuss a variety of hardware hacks, starting with a cautionary tale about laser safety involving a high-power neodymium YAG laser that damaged a vehicle and injured personnel. They then explore creative uses of LEDs as light sensors for data transmission, a Raspberry Pi Pico-based USB sniffer, and a method for over-molding wires using hot glue and 3D printed molds. The episode concludes with reflections on CRT aesthetics in pixel art and long-form articles on DIY 'cyborg' time-management devices and the HF Global Communications System (HFGCS) used for nuclear command and control.

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