An Interview with Mike Szczys

The Amp Hour · 13 Aug 2018 · 1h 18m · Episode 403

What this episode covers

Mike Szczys, Editor-in-Chief of Hackaday, discusses his journey from orchestra musician to hardware creator, focusing on his DEF CON 26 badge, the 'coin-op badge,' which uses an ATmega48 and low-power design. He details the challenges of firmware optimization, PCB layout, and the learning curve of using a Neoden 4 pick-and-place machine with Chris Gammell. The conversation highlights the trend of low-cost components like the ESP32 driving innovation, the importance of open-source collaboration, and the value of maker communities like DEF CON and Hackaday Supercon in fostering hardware education and networking.

Mentioned

Companies
Hackaday, Supply Frame
Chips
ESP32, ATmega48
Tools
Neoden 4, KiCad
Also
Arduino, DEF CON, Hackaday Supercon

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