Base Convert – The Prototype

Inspired in part by the Hex Game from The Ben Heck Show but with the simplicity of the Microsoft Calculator in programmer mode, this project aims to create a handheld/desktop calculator for converting between HEX, DEC, and BIN base numbers up to 16 bit. I find myself during times of programing always checking my number conversions with the MS calculator. I would prefer to have a physical calculator on my desk since I prefer the tactile feel over an on screen calculator.

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Train Horn Synthesis with the MSP430FR2000

I needed to generate a jarring sound for a silly reason. This project started like many other projects with a trash find, a PA speaker that was just begging to be rescued and reused. Slowly this project evolved from a simple weekend or two Arduino based solution to the four week solution that I present to you below. Like many of my projects I used this particular one as a learning experience for programing and embedding a microcontroller from the MSP430 family of microcontrollers. In between the start and end of this project I also learned about sound generation using PWM and train horn chords.

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Joule Thief Measurements: Base Resistor

After selling out of both of the Multi-LED Joule Thief and the Joule Thief Candle on Tindie it became necessary to not only make more but to update both models. Before updating I wanted to make a few measurements of the circuit to better understand how I could increase its performance by changing the resistance of R1 connected to the base of the NPN transistor.

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Bicycle Announcer

The Problem During short instances of nice weather in upstate New York I enjoy going for a bicycle ride on the local multi use trails. I have to pass pedestrians or slower bicycle traffic and find it to sometimes be a hassle to get their attention. During one of my rides I got to thinking […]

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DPS5015 Power Supply Enclosure

I designed a printable enclosure for my DPS5015 power supply. The case is a tight fit but results in a nice compact unit with minimal footprint. An external DC power supply is needed, I plan to use my large Sorensen 150V linear power supply for this. As with most of my designs the first iteration […]

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Mantis Microscope Repair

A recent dumpster dive netted me a Vision Engineering Mantis Microscope. The Mantis will be extremely useful for soldering SMD parts and general PCB assembly and repair. I was lucky that the objectives had been thrown out with the unit, a 4X and 8X objective. I am unable to find the model number of this Mantis but it is not a new microscope. The Mantis had not aged well, small cracks are appearing in the plastic housing and the mounting bracket is broken into unusable plastic scrap.

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