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Use PNGs to make real 3D parts out of metal and plastic…

Use PNGs to make real 3D parts out of metal and plastic…

Bluesaw-MedWow, now you can upload a PNG image and have a part cut and sent to you, made from metal or plastic, no need to use CAD software. Simon writes“I’ve just added support for PNG images. I’m really proud of this new feature, as it will allow even people who don’t know how to use CAD software to start creating with Big Blue Saw. There are still a couple of quirks to work out over the next few weeks, and the help files will need to be updated, but this feature was much needed.” Link.

HOW TO – recreate trips with Google Earth, and a GPS

HOW TO – recreate trips with Google Earth, and a GPS

75956812 8633E0207CCMPalmer writes “This may be old hat to most, but I’ve posted an example of using GPS tracklogs and Google Earth to virtually recreate vacation trips. I uploaded the GPS tracks into Google Earth so I could visualize them. One of the coolest tricks that Google Earth does is to let you “fly” along the tracks at any speed and altitude that you wish, so I can virtually recreate each drive over 3D scenery overlayed with satellite photos. This would have been great to do real time while I was there, because I was extremely frustrated to find that I had missed wonderful things that I drove right by or were just a few blocks away from.” Link.

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MAKEbot…testing, 1, 2, 3…

Makebotguy-1Ok, we think most of the logistics have been solved with our AOL Instant Message bot, the MAKEbot. The MAKEbot delivers the best of MAKEZine.com, Flickr, Instructables and del.icio.us all via your buddy list. Click here to add the MAKEbot to your buddy list, then type help for a list of commands or just click here to subscribe. I’m also trying out this AIM code – it should tell you the status of the MAKEbot right in this post, so let’s see how it goes…There should be a little icon here –> . If there is, click’em and add’em. Lastly, the MAKEbot has a secret code if you can figure it out, it gives you a discount on MAKE and our new book Makers.

Wake up calls for phones?

Wake up calls for phones?

CellphoneSean was looking for a service that would automatically call his phone with a text to speech message at a specified time “I would like to be able to program my computer to call my cell phone or a regular phone with text to voice messages–eg reminders, important appointments or wake up calls and for pranksters…The catch is that the other person should not require the same software to receive the call. Anybody know of any software that does this univocally?” I found a web service that does this (some free and some fee) here. I usually use my built in alarm clock on my phone, but it doesn’t of course talk to me or call anyone else.

Cheap electronics – Goodwill online auctions…

Cheap electronics – Goodwill online auctions…

GoodwillI didn’t know Goodwill had eBay-like auctions, but they do. Make reader zw suggested that the “Cameras & Electronic Equip” section has a lot of good deals and interesting equipment. And it’s true, there are a ton of weird and cheap electronics, most of them under $50. I also saw a new 4G iPod for $150. I’m not sure how good the actual purchase and delivery is, it seems the member organizations of Goodwill Industries International are the only sellers. It might be worth checking out. Link.

Camerapedia…

Camerapedia…

CamerapediaThis is a great idea, one place on the web that may eventually contain every camera with all the important things you need to know about just about every camera – “Camerapedia.org is a free-content encyclopedia of camera information. The intention of the camerapedia Wiki is to be a repository for information and links to information about all still camera brands and models. You know your camera equipment better than anyone. Please share that knowledge with everyone and contribute.” Link.