I just ordered what might be the cool hack toy of the year. It’s called the GameOptics LCD Display available at ThinkGeek and it’s a little USB device that displays instant messaging software, incoming emails, MP3 and internet radio playback, and weather. The purpose of this device is to use it while you’re playing MMORPG’s (Massive multiplayer online role playing games) and still tune in to the meat space. I think there’s a lot to hacking in store for this little guy, first item of business- add IRC support.

FreeCycle is a hub of email lists from different cities where you can post WANTED, OFFERED, or TAKEN messages to get, give and look for free stuff. There are over 1 million members out there in over 2,500 communities. You have to go and pick up the stuff in person, but that’s not a bad deal at all. There has been some talk of a Maker-like list where you could offer up usage of tools and equipment, but I think the FreeCycle list(s) might work. You could post OFFERED: Use of DNA sequencer, etc…

3M Canada has a fun how-to on making your own duct tape wallet. I’ve seen these at stores around here and while I wouldn’t buy one I think I’ll make one just for kicks. I guess someone could go to the next level and make a laptop bag. Update: Andrew sent in a link to the duct tape bag here! He goes on to say “Basically it amounts to layering the duct tape strips to create sheets and taping those together. The trick is to let as little adhesive get through as possible, or it gets all over the place. Also, some testing would need to be done regarding weight, as a duct tape strap can only hold so much”.

We had our coming out party and our first “Maker fair” at Etech this week. Think of it as a science fair, with beer. A dozen or so Makers showed off their projects, gadgets, hacks and more. We’ll have some more photos up soon, but here’s the first batch on Flickr. And here’s a great overview from Make Fair participant Robert Kaye.

Live from Etech: I was going to post my notes from Danny O’Brien and Merlin Mann’s Life Hacks Live but Cory Doctorow did a much better job (view them here). If you’re in to productivity, getting stuff done and want to read about the upcoming Life Hacks book from O’Reilly check it out.

Live from Etech: Natalie Jeremijenko from UCSD showcased her open source student created modified robotic toy dogs which seek out environmental toxins. If you’re interested in modding up one one your own, visit the upgrade site. The Make crew visited the a test site today, truly amazing to see these in person work with all the students buzzing about (couple photos here).

Live from Etech: James Larsson’s “Hardware Hacks from the Far Side” had a ton of great and entertaining hacks you should never try at home (or anywhere else). Creating a prawn sandwich fresh-lethal-stale clock. Transforming an old CRT monitor into a radio jamming device, an insect repeller, a fly killer, a cardiac defibrillator, several types of electronic artwork, a squash-ball warmer, and a somewhat vicious mouse trap.