Computers & Mobile

The latest DIY ideas, techniques and tools for digital gadgetry, open code, smart hacks, and more. Processing power to the people!

Pneumatic Antenna Launcher uses Android, Free App for AR Scope

Pneumatic Antenna Launcher uses Android, Free App for AR Scope

We have covered Alan’s Biocca’s fantastic clearinghouse site antennalaunchers.com before, and Brookfield, CT, resident Andrew Stoev’s basic launcher design appears to be a slightly up-gunned version of Alan’s CSV19 pneumatic antenna launcher. It’s a beautiful build, but my favorite feature is the quick-release mount he added for his Android device. Using a free app called GeoCam, his phone, when so mounted, becomes an augmented-reality aiming scope that provides GPS location, compass orientation, and (probably most usefully for this purpose) phone inclination data.

New in the Maker Shed: Solder:Time

New in the Maker Shed: Solder:Time

Solder:Time is a new arrival in the Maker Shed. It was extremely popular at Maker Faire Bay Area for obvious reasons; It’s really cool! The watch comes in kit form and includes a laser cut acrylic enclosure and wrist strap. The bright red LED display is driven by a pic16 using a Dallas DS1337+ RTC chip for accurate time keeping.

Getting Dad Started with Arduino

Getting Dad Started with Arduino

Father’s Day 2011 is just up head and I’m sure that a large percentage of us have waited until the last minute to get dad a nice little something. If you’ve got one of those dads that maybe patiently taught you to change the oil in your car, rip plywood on a table saw, replace a video card on your PC, or any other hands-on activity, then you’ve got a dad who’ll likely enjoy a gift of 21st century tinkering: the Arduino.