SynBio Hardware http://www.synbio.org.uk/ Sat, 09 Feb 2013 03:09:33 GMT FeedCreator 1.8.1 (obRSS 1.8.11) http://www.synbio.org.uk/images/ SynBio Hardware http://www.synbio.org.uk/ News about laboratory tools and hardware for engineering work with biological systems. Google Linear Book Scanner – if you want to see just how fast clever open source ideas can ... http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2678-google-linear-book-scanner--if-you-want-to-see-just-how-fast-clever-open-source-ideas-can-spread-watch-this.html googlelinearbookscanner

Google engineer Dany Qumsiyeh has spent his 20% free project time at Google to produce an ingenious automatic non-destructive book scanner, using low cost components and a vacuum cleaner. Yes, a household model.

The thing about book scanners is they’re [...]

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T15:26:50+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2678-google-linear-book-scanner--if-you-want-to-see-just-how-fast-clever-open-source-ideas-can-spread-watch-this.html
Build a Sturdy, Good-Looking Raspberry Pi Case from Cardboard http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2676-build-a-sturdy-good-looking-raspberry-pi-case-from-cardboard.html Click here to read Build a Sturdy, Good-Looking Raspberry Pi Case from CardboardIf you're planning to do any of the Raspberry Pi hacks we've featured this week, you'll probably need a decent case for your Pi before you get started. Design Engineer Jude Pullen wanted one too, but also wanted to use materials he already had. A couple of cardboard boxes and a hot glue gun were all it took to build this case. More »

Build a Sturdy, Good-Looking Raspberry Pi Case from Cardboard

(Via Lifehacker.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T14:53:52+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2676-build-a-sturdy-good-looking-raspberry-pi-case-from-cardboard.html
Blue Microphones Announces the Nessie Adaptive USB Microphone http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2673-blue-microphones-announces-the-nessie-adaptive-usb-microphone.html gear diary Microphones Laptop Gear Desktop Gear CES  Blue Microphones Announces the Nessie Adaptive USB Microphone

While at CES Blue Microphones announced the Nessie adaptive USB Mic. The Nessie ‘takes the fear out of great recording by instantly delivering studio-enhanced sound for desktop recording of vocals, instruments, voiceovers and more’.

gear diary Microphones Laptop Gear Desktop Gear CES  Blue Microphones Announces the Nessie Adaptive USB Microphone

The Nessie is designed to ‘combat the most common pitfalls of recording’. To achieve that end the Nessie automatically adapts to each recording and applies professional studio processing. It also includes a built-in pop filter and an internal shock mount. The combination is designed to produce ‘expertly finished sound, without the need for additional mixing or editing’. Ultimately the Nessie is designed to professionally enhance audio and create polished music demos, podcasts, interviews and YouTube videos.

The Nessie offers three recording modes and has a single custom-tuned condenser capsule with a cardioid pattern.

gear diary Microphones Laptop Gear Desktop Gear CES  Blue Microphones Announces the Nessie Adaptive USB Microphone

 

A zero-latency headphone output allows for direct monitoring and the microphone also features a headphone volume and instant mute button. For optimal positioning, the Nessie’s head is adjustable thanks to serpentine flexibility. The Nessie is plug-and-play compatible via USB with both PC and Mac and requires no additional drivers. You can also use the Nessie with an iPad via Apple’s 30-pin to USB or Lighting to USB camera adapters.

gear diary Microphones Laptop Gear Desktop Gear CES  Blue Microphones Announces the Nessie Adaptive USB Microphone

We’re looking forward to getting one for review. Until then you can learn more here on the product page.

Blue Microphones Announces the Nessie Adaptive USB Microphone (Via Gear Diary.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T14:41:37+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2673-blue-microphones-announces-the-nessie-adaptive-usb-microphone.html
PlugBug World brings global travel to the MacBook / USB charger http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2672-plugbug-world-brings-global-travel-to-the-macbook--usb-charger.html PlugBug World brings global travel to the MacBook  USB charger

Globetrotting Mac users looking to slightly condense their cable packing will no doubt be happy to learn that the outlet-obsessed folks at Twelve South have announced the launch of the PlugBug World. The latest version of the hybrid charger adds five international plugs (US / Canada / Japan, UK / Hong Kong / Singapore, Continental Europe, Australia / New Zealand and China) to the combo MacBook / USB charger. Interested parties can pick one up now through Twelve South's site for $45 -- or £39.99 / €44.99, depending on which part of the world youre in at the moment. The domestic version of PlugBug, meanwhile, will run you $35. Theres a press release after the break for your perusal.

Show full PR text

The new PlugBug World delivers dual charging convenience to everyone, while making any MacBook Power Adapter ready for global travel.

Twelve South is pleased to unveil PlugBug World, an all-in-one USB iPad/iPhone charger that converts any MacBook Power Adapter into a dual charger that can be used globally. The powerful PlugBug World piggybacks onto your MacBook power adapter, allowing you to simultaneously charge your MacBook and iPad or iPhone from one electrical outlet. This world version of the PlugBug charger includes five international snap-on plugs for use in the UK, Europe, Australia, China, and North America. PlugBug World is compatible with all Apple MacBook Power Adapters and is available now at twelvesouth.com for $44.99 / £39.99 / 44,99 €. More info and images can be found at www.twelvesouth.com.

PlugBug World is an international version of the popular Twelve South PlugBug. PlugBug World brings the dual charging convenience of PlugBug to Mac users everywhere. PlugBug uses the clever trick of attaching to any Apple MacBook Power Adapter by replacing its attached plug or extended power cord. When snapped into place, PlugBug not only allows for worldwide charging of MacBook, but also provides a separate 2.1-Amp USB charger for iPad/iPhone. Once attached, simply select your local plug, or use your extended cable, to power both your MacBook and iPad or iPhone from a single outlet. This powerful accessory is a lifesaver in locations where finding multiple wall outlets can be a challenge, and where charging your MacBook and iPad quickly is mission-critical to your next meeting or presentation.

PlugBug World works as a stand-alone international wall charger, too. Rather than pulling out a MacBook to charge your iPhone or iPad, simply use PlugBug World. PlugBug World can charge your iPad up to four times faster than a MacBook and your iPad mini up to twice as fast as its included charger.

The bright red PlugBug World is easy to spot in a sea of white adapters in your bag or on the wall at the airport. Because PlugBug World charges MacBook plus iPad or iPhone at the same time, you can purge the number of power cords and international converters you carry. And since MacBook USB ports are precious commodities on the road and in the office, PlugBug's extra USB charger is a welcome addition.

Since the release of the original PlugBug, many notable MacBook power users have made PlugBug an essential part of their travel gear. Andy Ihnatko, technology journalist for the Chicago Sun-Times, called the PlugBug 'an exceptional product' that 'has not been off my charger since I got it.' Steve Sande from TUAW said, 'Twelve South took a charger - and used the Apple adage to 'Think Different' to create something that is extremely useful and attractive.' And John Gruber, of Daring Fireball, exclaimed 'How in the world did no one think of this before?' With PlugBug World, the convenience of PlugBug is finally available to international travelers and customers alike.

Andrew Green, Creative Director of Twelve South said, 'PlugBug World adapts your MacBook for international travel for about the same price as the other adapter kits - but with the bonus of an extra USB charger. My USB ports get used up very quickly on the road for Internet access and Jump Drives. PlugBug gives me an extra USB charger without wasting precious MacBook USB ports on something as silly as charging. And because it's connected right to my MacBook charger - I don't forget it at home either.'

Whether you're an international traveler or you just want the convenience of PlugBug in your part of the world, PlugBug World is ready to add one more handy tool to your MacBook travel pack. PlugBug World includes the PlugBug Charger, five international plugs and travel bag for holding it all. PlugBug World is the perfect solution for powering up your MacBook and iPhone or iPad wherever you may roam. PlugBug World is available at twelvesouth.com now for $44.99, and soon at The Apple Store and Apple Authorized Resellers worldwide. For those who use their MacBooks in the US, Canada and Japan the original PlugBug is still available for $34.99.

PlugBug World brings global travel to the MacBook / USB charger

(Via Engadget.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T14:38:26+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2672-plugbug-world-brings-global-travel-to-the-macbook--usb-charger.html
Gemma, a 1" diameter Arduino-compatible board for wearable electronics http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2671-gemma-a-1q-diameter-arduino-compatible-board-for-wearable-electronics.html

Adafruit has announced 'Gemma,' a bite-sized, Arduino compatible board intended for use in wearable electronics projects. It measures 1' in diameter, and while it's not shipping yet, they're taking names for people who want to get 'em when they ship:

* Powered by the ATtiny85 with 3 available I/O pins, one of which is also an analog input and two which can do PWM output*
Progammable over the micro USB connection*
Onboard 3.3v Regulator and power LED*
Reset button*
Works with our Flora NeoPixels (can drive about a dozen - not much RAM!)*
Super tiny design, only 1' (25mm) diameter & 4mm thick

Adafruit Gemma - Miniature wearable electronic platform

Gemma, a 1" diameter Arduino-compatible board for wearable electronics

(Via Boing Boing Gadgets.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T14:31:07+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2671-gemma-a-1q-diameter-arduino-compatible-board-for-wearable-electronics.html
Shedding some realistic light on Imagination's real-time ray tracing card http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2670-shedding-some-realistic-light-on-imaginations-real-time-ray-tracing-card.html

Imagination Technology's Caustic R2500 real-time ray tracing card wants to bring better lighting to your 3D renders, and it's just the beginning.
Chris Foresman

Imagination Technologies is one of those companies simultaneously ubiquitous and invisible. Its PowerVR graphics processors drive high-profile electronics like Sony's PlayStation Vita, Apple's iPhones and iPads, and any number of past-and-present smartphones, tablets, and laptops. But you'd probably be hard-pressed to find anyone outside of technology circles who actually knows the name.

While most of our coverage of Imagination is driven by these mobile GPU designs, the company also has its eyes on other markets. We stopped by its CES meeting room to get a glimpse at the Series6 PowerVR GPUs that are going to begin making their way into consumer products this year, but the company was also showing off something else: a pair of workstation-class PCI Express add-in cards that allow 3D rendering programs to do something called ray tracing in real time. This is something hardware developers have been chasing (and we've been covering) for many years, so we took some time to see the hardware in action.

What is ray tracing, and why do I want it?

Enlarge / Ray tracing algorithms are designed to accurately render light and its interaction with various objects.
Chris Foresman

To put it as simply as possible, ray tracing is used to render light and its interactions with objects. A ray tracing algorithm will track rays of light from a light source to an object. Once the light hits that object, the algorithm can account for how much light will be absorbed by the surface, how much will be reflected or refracted by the surface, and how that reflected and refracted light interacts with other surfaces, among other things.

Read 15 remaining paragraphs

Shedding some realistic light on Imagination's real-time ray tracing card

(Via Ars Technica.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T14:19:17+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2670-shedding-some-realistic-light-on-imaginations-real-time-ray-tracing-card.html
Flatbed scanner eliminates the perils of macro photography http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2669-flatbed-scanner-eliminates-the-perils-of-macro-photography.html IMG_7728

If you have ever played around with macro photography, you’ll know how hard it is to get a focused image of something that isn’t two-dimensional. For virtually every 3D object, you’ll have to deal with the depth of field – the small region where things are actually in focus. [David] came up with a neat homebrew solution for making sure everything in his macro photos is in focus using a discarded flatbed scanner and a Raspberry Pi.

[David]‘s technique relies on focus stacking. Basically, [David] takes dozens of images of the same object, moving the camera closer by a fraction of an inch before snapping each frame. These pictures are stitched together with CombineZ, a piece of software used for extending the depth of field in images.

The hardware part of the build is a Raspberry Pi hooked up to a stepper motor driver and the shutter button of [David]‘s camera. By attaching his camera to the carriage of a flatbed scanner, [David] can inch his camera ever closer to his object of study while grabbing the images for CombineZ.

The results are impressive, and would be nearly impossible to replicate any other way without tens of thousands of dollars in camera equipment.

Flatbed scanner eliminates the perils of macro photography

(Via Hack a Day.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T13:28:53+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2669-flatbed-scanner-eliminates-the-perils-of-macro-photography.html
Build a bioprinter from very old inkjet cartridges http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2668-build-a-bioprinter-from-very-old-inkjet-cartridges.html bioprinting

This column of messages was printed with Escherichia coli. That’s the bacteria better known as E. coli which can cause so many problems if it makes its way into our food. But the relative size and the fact that this strain was engineered to glow in the dark makes it a perfect candidate for Bio Printing. We find it even more interesting that it was printed using hacked inkjet and computer parts.

There are legitimate uses for this type of technology. But this project is aimed more at getting the word out about the method and how easy it can be. For us, it’s the close look at modern inkjet print heads that was the most interesting. It turns out that common cartridges have an overly high-resolution for this to work well. In order to get so many dots in such a small area the nozzle openings end up being too small for most biological material to fit through. There is also an issue with a filter built into the silicone technology inside.

The solution was to use the InkShield to drive cartridges from very old printers. This lets the team command the cartridge with an Arduino, making it dead simple to tweak the way the material is deposited. They mounted the cartridge holder (using decades-old technology in the form of HP Deskjet 500 cartridges) on the sled of an optical drive and went from there.

Take a glance at the printer in action in the clip after the break.

 


Build a bioprinter from very old inkjet cartridges

(Via Hack a Day.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T13:22:48+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2668-build-a-bioprinter-from-very-old-inkjet-cartridges.html
New IOIO is faster, cheaper http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2667-new-ioio-is-faster-cheaper.html board-nobg

For the last few years, [Ytai] has been working on the IOIO, a device that connects your Android devices to the other homebrew peripherals. There’s a new version of this really cool board out now that includes a few much-needed features like USB-OTG and a lower component cost that is passed on in savings to you.

A few months ago, our own [Mike Szczys] caught a glimpse of this new IOIO board. It’s the same size as the previous revision, but with USB-OTG, the new IOIO can be a master when connected to a phone, or a slave when connected to a PC.

In addition to USB-OTG, [Ytai] improved the power regulation circuit, and even went so far as to refuse royalties to the board to get the costs down. It’s currently available at Sparkfun for $40.

[Ytai] says he’s working on a few software upgrades to the IOIO, including making capacitive sensing a possibility and including support for stepper motors and controllers. There’s also support for the Raspberry Pi coming up, but we’re just glad [Ytai] managed to put a yo-yo graphic on the bottom silkscreen. Finally, and hopefully, everyone will know how to pronounce IOIO.


Filed under: android hacks, hardware "

(Via Hack a Day.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T13:21:34+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2667-new-ioio-is-faster-cheaper.html
$20 vacuum pen build on of the best we’ve seen http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2666-20-vacuum-pen-build-on-of-the-best-weve-seen.html 20-dollar-vacuum-pen-build

Everything you need to build a vacuum tweezers is laid out in this image. The parts should run you about $20 and when you’re done you’ll have the perfect tool for placing very small surface mount parts for reflow soldering.

This project uses the same concept as other fish pump tweezers projects but builds upon them with some interesting additions. The first step in the conversion process is to tear down the aquarium pump to reverse its flow. There are several steps but all-in-all it’s not very difficult. With the source of vacuum established [Technically Artistic] begins work on the business end of the tool. This is where the array of different pens see some action. The large blue one is the outer assembly, with the others combining to help connect it to the plastic tubing. The business end is made from a needle adapter for an air compressor, with an alligator clip cleverly modified to serve as a valve to release the parts from the tip.

$20 vacuum pen build on of the best we’ve seen

(Via Hack a Day.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T13:21:05+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2666-20-vacuum-pen-build-on-of-the-best-weve-seen.html
Industrial Desk Lamp Perfectly Complements Your Construction Site Motif http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2665-industrial-desk-lamp-perfectly-complements-your-construction-site-motif.html Click here to read Industrial Desk Lamp Perfectly Complements Your Construction Site Motif

Designed to look like a massive construction site digger, this imposing thirteen foot tall lamp will tower over your desk, and everything else in your office. Designed by Pascal Howe, The Worker has a definite industrial charm to it, particularly if you grew up staring in awe at the massive yellow machinery that's used to build towering skyscrapers. More »


Industrial Desk Lamp Perfectly Complements Your Construction Site Motif

(Via Gizmodo.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T12:52:35+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2665-industrial-desk-lamp-perfectly-complements-your-construction-site-motif.html
6-Month Pinhole Exposure Made with a Beer Can http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2662-6-month-pinhole-exposure-made-with-a-beer-can.html pinhole

beer can camera

Beer--it can do anything! For example, once you drink it, beer grants you the magical ability to make a camera from the can which contained it. That's what Matt Bigwood did:

The equipment is very simple – an empty beer can with the top removed and a hole made with a needle or pin, a card lid for the can held on with gaffer tape, and a sheet of 5’x7’ black and white photographic paper inside. To make a six-month long exposure the camera needs to be pointing south towards the sun. Composition is an educated guess -  it needs to be south facing and the bottom of the can raised slightly to get more sky in the picture. Because the paper is wrapped around the inside of the can it give the distorted arc shape to the sun’s path across the sky. Despite one of the wettest summers in the UK for many years, the cameras still recorded the sun’s path across the sky.

Link -via Junkculture | Photographer's Website

6-Month Pinhole Exposure Made with a Beer Can

(Via Neatorama.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T11:43:36+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2662-6-month-pinhole-exposure-made-with-a-beer-can.html
The DIY BioPrinter Hack Lets You Print Biomaterials From an Old Inkjet http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2657-the-diy-bioprinter-hack-lets-you-print-biomaterials-from-an-old-inkjet.html diy bioprinter, instructables, patrik, e.coli. biocurious logo, inkjet, hp, glow

With large companies such as Organovo and Autodesk teaming up to fabricate living tissue, you might think that bioprinting is out of the scope of the average DIYer. But when it comes to technology, human ingenuity is an incredible thing, and just because you don’t own an expensive piece of a equipment doesn’t mean you can join the organic 3D-printing revolution. Thanks to a modification by Instructables member Patrik, an old abandoned HP5150 inkjet printer can be transformed into a DIY bioprinter.

diy bioprinter, instructables, patrik, e.coli. biocurious logo, inkjet, hp, glow diy bioprinter, instructables, patrik, e.coli. biocurious logo, inkjet, hp, glow diy bioprinter, instructables, patrik, e.coli. biocurious logo, inkjet, hp, glow diy bioprinter, instructables, patrik, e.coli. biocurious logo, inkjet, hp, glow

Read the rest of The DIY BioPrinter Hack Lets You Print Biomaterials From an Old Inkjet

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T11:22:06+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2657-the-diy-bioprinter-hack-lets-you-print-biomaterials-from-an-old-inkjet.html
Liquid Nails Construction Adhesive http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2656-liquid-nails-construction-adhesive.html Liquid-Nails

In a Cool Tools review Karl Chwe explained how construction adhesive can be repurposed for the household with surprisingly good results; excerpts below.

Construction adhesive has a major role in building construction, but I have been using it as a household adhesive. It has a number of unique characteristics that make it possibly more useful than most of the alternatives.

It fills gaps with strength, unlike cyanoacrylates like Superglue or polyurethanes like Gorilla Glue. It is somewhat flexible, which often makes a more durable repair for things like shoes, clothing, tents, etc. It is much stronger than Shoe Goo or urethane sealers, which the clear versions resemble superficially. It has tremendous initial tack. Often you can spread it, stick the two pieces together, and you are done. The glue is sticky enough that often you dont need clamping (which is a virtual necessity for Gorilla Glue and its relatives).

It is easy to apply. Unlike contact cements like Barge Cement, you dont have to apply it to both sides, let them dry, then carefully stick them together. You just spread it on one piece, jam the two pieces together and adjust, and you are done.

It also cleans up with soap and water unlike epoxy, polyurethane glue, cyanoacrylate glue, contact cement, etc. It is waterproof in non-immersion settings, unlike white or yellow glues. It comes in a variety of formulations with a variety of characteristics so you can choose high-strength, UV-resistance, clear, or a kind of beige.

As for cons, I cant think of any real disadvantages. If you want to bond two rigid things that mate perfectly, use Super Glue. If you want to bond two rigid things that dont mate perfectly, use epoxy. For wood, use carpenters glue. For pretty much every other material, porous or non-porous, flexible or not, construction adhesive works great.

The clear version from Liquid Nails let me make the only successful shoe repair I have ever made of a peeling sole. I stuffed the shoe full of newspaper, masked off the uppers, applied the glue, then applied masking tape on the outside to pull the sole close to the shoe. After it dried it looked perfect, and for the last few years the glue has held strong while flexing with the shoe. I never had such luck with Shoe Goo, Super Glue, urethane sealants, etc.

I have used construction adhesive from both Loctite and Liquid Nails and both brands worked well.

$5.58.

Liquid Nails Construction Adhesive

(Via bookofjoe.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-26T11:16:49+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2656-liquid-nails-construction-adhesive.html
Permaduino makes your Arduino projects permanent (video) http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2653-permaduino-makes-your-arduino-projects-permanent-video.html Permaduino makes your Arduino projects permanent video

Arduinos are fun to tinker with, but there's one problem. Once you've built something cool, you pretty much have to tear it down to use your board for another project. Sure, you can always buy multiple Arduino boards or proto shields, but what if you want to turn your creation into something a bit more permanent and a lot more compact? Say hello to Permaduino, a small battery-powered Arduino prototype board that just launched on Indiegogo. It features an Atmega328P (natch), two AAA battery holders with a 3 to 5V DC-DC converter (up to 180mA), a 25-column breadboard with VCC and ground, plusFTDI, AVR-ISP and USB interfaces. Best of all, Permanuino conveniently fits inside a standard 8mm videotape case (as long as you don't mount large components on that breadboard). Interested? Hit the break for the Indigogo link and campaign video.

Permaduino makes your Arduino projects permanent (video)

Source: Permaduino (Indiegogo)

(Via Engadget.)
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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T19:32:57+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2653-permaduino-makes-your-arduino-projects-permanent-video.html
The PICnDuino http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2651-the-picnduino.html picnduino

For those of you that can’t make a decision between buying an Arduino and a PIC processor, [Brad] has come up with a novel solution, the PICnDuino. We’ve featured him before with his [Retroball] project, but this time Brad has been full funded on Kickstarter, and is pre-selling boards for delivery in March.

[HAD], specifically I, was fortunate enough to be sent one of the boards to try out early. I’ve worked with an Arduino before, but never a PIC processor, so read on to see if it was actually as easy as the tutorial video (at the end of the article) would have you believe it is to get started.

I was sent both a black board fully populated, as well as several blanks in the various colors pictured below.  After loosely attaching the headers, I found that the oscillator on the bottom makes the board sit up a bit when placed into a breadboard. This is actually a clever design feature to make sit up a bit to allow USB attachment while breadboarded. After a quick physical inspection, the real trick would be seeing if it worked as advertised.

The first challenge for me was that, according to the documentation, this board runs in Windows or a virtualisation environment. I normally run Ubuntu, so, grabbing my wife’s circa 2000 vintage XP notebook, I downloaded and Amicus and Arduino software as explained in the video tutorial. The tutorial really spells out how to get the software running. This would be great for a total beginner, and made it so I didn’t have to even poke around for where to get the software.

picnduino-colors

picnduino-in-usb

The only issue I had connecting to the board(s?)was that I had to manually install the Amicus18 USB driver. I’m a total noob when it comes to the PIC processor, and only have limited experience with the Arduino, but once the driver was updated, it was quite easy to get everything going.

After programming a ‘blink’ sketch using it as an Arduino, I then flipped a switch and opened the Amicus IDE. Programming the PIC was also simple, although I had to use a and modify a program called ‘LED_Flash’ to match the video instead of the ‘blink’ program as described in the tutorial. It was a bit strange to see the built in blinking light for the Arduino still working while the PIC was being programmed, as well as both built-in lights blinking slightly offset while running simultaneously.

The documentation is extremely well done for a product that won’t even be available for delivery until March 2013. I’m really excited to play with it more, and I think it will be a great tool for people to either run two processors simultaneously, or just have the option of learning to program both a PIC and (n) Arduino. So check it out here, and get it shipped worldwide straight out of Australia!

Side note, bonus points if you can tell from the two pictures what kind of computer I used for this review!

The PICnDuino Review

(Via Hack a Day» arduino hacks.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T18:45:14+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2651-the-picnduino.html
RFID emulator card includes a learning mode http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2650-rfid-emulator-card-includes-a-learning-mode.html rfid-emulator

This RFID card has a lot of nice features. But the one that stands out the most is the ability to learn the code from anther RFID tag or card.

You can see that the board includes an etched coil to interact with an RFID reader. This is the sole source of power for the device, letting it pick up enough induced current from the reader to power the PIC 12F683 seen on the upper left of the board. The underside of the PCB hosts just three components: an LED and two switches. One of the switches puts the device in learning mode. Just hold down that button as you move the board into the magnetic field of the reader. While in learning mode a second RFID tag is held up to the reader. It will identify itself and the emulator will capture the code sent during that interaction. This is all shown of in the video after the break. We wonder how hard it would be to make a version that can store several different codes selected by holding down a different button as the emulator is held up to the reader?

If you want to build your own card reader too here’s a project that does it from scratch.

 


RFID emulator card includes a learning mode

(Via Hack a Day.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T18:41:53+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2650-rfid-emulator-card-includes-a-learning-mode.html
Custom gauges with a stepper motor breakout board http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2649-custom-gauges-with-a-stepper-motor-breakout-board.html motor1.JPG.620x372_q85

Throw some blinking LEDs on a project and it’s bound to make the front page of Hackaday. We do love builds of a more analog character, though, and this analog gauge stepper motor breakout board seems like just the ticket to make those projects a reality.

The idea behind the project is simple: take a stepper motor, put a needle on it, and connect it to an Arduino. Instant analog gauge, measuring anything an Arduino can calculate.

The motor used in the build is a Switec X27.168, the same motor used in the dashboard of tens of thousands of automobiles from dozens of different makes and models. Controlling the motors is done through [Guy Carpenter]‘s Switec X25 library for the Arduino, allowing an Arduino Uno to control up to three stepper motor gauges simultaneously.

The movement of the needle is amazingly smooth and quite fast, as seen in the video after the break. A pretty cool piece of kit if you want a more analog display than LEDs and LCDs can provide.

Custom gauges with a stepper motor breakout board

(Via Hack a Day.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T18:32:24+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2649-custom-gauges-with-a-stepper-motor-breakout-board.html
Take your prototyping to a new level with the ODROID-U2 dev platform http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2648-take-your-prototyping-to-a-new-level-with-the-odroid-u2-dev-platform.html Pi, meet your new daddy.

The Raspberry-Pi has been a media darling as of late, and deservedly so. It’s a full computing platform that can do many wonderful things, all for less than a few day’s worth of Starbucks lattes. But what if you simply need moah powah?

In that case, you need the ODROID-U2 from Hardkernel. How does a 1.7Ghz quad-core strike you? 2GB of RAM, perhaps? With 10/100 ethernet, 2 USB ports, and micro HDMI, ll for less than $90? I can feel your burning stare of disbelief. Go ahead, check out the link for yourself. I’ll wait.

Aha, so you’ve seen it with your own eyes. Now that stare has turned into a soft mad-scientist chuckle, eh? It’s ok, we had the same reaction ourselves. ODROID is short for ‘Open Android’, and apparently Hardkernel has developed an entire ODROID product line in the past. Previous models have advertised development applications from e-book readers to internet TV.

The U2 runs either Android 4 or Ubuntu Linux (and perhaps other Linux flavors as well, though we’re not sure). It features a Samsung Exynos 4412 Prime SoC, which includes an ARM Cortex-A9 as the central processor. Unlike the Pi, you’ll need some accessories to get it running out of the box, as you must power it with an external adapter and not via USB.

Since the Raspberry-Pi is reportedly a little sluggish for media-intense applications, it would be interesting to see how this little bugger performs as a media center or car-PC. Either way, low cost hardware like the ODROID is a huge win for the hacking community, and we can’t wait to see what comes down the pipeline next.

Take your prototyping to a new level with the ODROID-U2 dev platform

(Via EngBlaze.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T18:29:39+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2648-take-your-prototyping-to-a-new-level-with-the-odroid-u2-dev-platform.html
APC Releases Rock and Paper Computers http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2647-apc-releases-rock-and-paper-computers.html  

gear diary Miscellaneous Gear Desktop Computers Android Phones and Tablets  APC Releases Rock and Paper Computers

The Raspberry Pi has been openly embraced by the hacker community for all sorts of projects.  From roll your own set-top boxes to Amateur Radio uses, it’s become a fast favorite of the hacker community.  Not to be outdone, APC has released two new computers that are sure to peak interest of the hacker community and anyone who wants a nice, simple computer without worry of viruses or other malware.

gear diary Miscellaneous Gear Desktop Computers Android Phones and Tablets  APC Releases Rock and Paper Computers

The Rock computer is a board only device that runs a customized version of Android 4.0 that is designed to work with a keyboard and mouse.  The Rock has a Via ARM Cortex-A9 chip running at 800 MHz, 512 MB of DDR3 Ram, 4GB of NAND Flash Memory, 2D/3D Graphics Acceleration capable of resolutions up to 1080p, HDMI, VGA, 2 USB 2.0 ports, microUSB (OTG capable), Audio out/Mic in, MicroSD Slot, 10/100 Ethernet, and for the hackers it includes a 20 pin ARM-JTAG Header, Extra GPIO, SPI and I2C Busses on the header.  This all fits in a board that measures 170×85 mm which is in the Neo-ITX Standard.  This board should fit right in with those who love hacking and working on the Raspberry Pi.  This board is now available for $79 dollars from APC.

gear diary Miscellaneous Gear Desktop Computers Android Phones and Tablets  APC Releases Rock and Paper Computers

The Paper Computer is similar to the Rock, except that it eschews the VGA port and comes with a case made from Recycled pressed cardboard with high-grade aluminum.  It will be available for preorder in March for only 99 dollars.

gear diary Miscellaneous Gear Desktop Computers Android Phones and Tablets  APC Releases Rock and Paper Computers

If you are the hacker type, APC has also made the kernel, bootloader and other code available in their library.  The even have pinouts for those wanting to use it to power other projects, and cad files so you can make your own custom case.  These are essential bits that APC has not forgotten.

Either of these would make great little boxes for playing media on your TV, streaming video from the web or maybe even running your favorite project.  This is one category that I am really excited about as it’s taking me back to the days I played with electronic circuits and more when I was a kid.  How you play has changed and instead of just building things like a crystal radio, you can build things that can do pretty amazing stuff.  I hope to see more of this kind of stuff in 2013.

APC Releases Rock and Paper Computers

(Via Gear Diary.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T11:56:35+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2647-apc-releases-rock-and-paper-computers.html
The CuBox Pro Is An Open-Source Computer That Measures 2-inches Cubed http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2646-the-cubox-pro-is-an-open-source-computer-that-measures-2-inches-cubed.html CuBoxPro The CuBox Pro Is An Open Source Computer That Measures 2 inches Cubed

If you’re a computer enthusiast and you’re not content with buying ready-to-use computers off the shelf and you don’t mind tinkering around the operating system, then open-source computer systems are probably the sort of device you’re after. Well if you are you might be interested to learn that SolidRun has taken the wraps off their latest offering, the CuBox Pro which is an upgrade over its predecessor and comes with 2GB of DDR3 RAM on board, which according to its creators makes it the world’s first ARM-based open source development platform to support 2GB of DDR3 RAM. The CuBox Pro will measure 2-inches cube and weighs 91grams and comes in either high polish or matte finish.

The CuBox Pro will support Linux-based distributions such as Ubuntu, Debian, GeeXbox, openelec.tv and even Android as well. It is also a fanless computer system and is built on the Marvell Armada 510 SoC with 800MHz dual issue ARM PJ4 processor based on the 32bit ARMv7 architecture. It will feature an infra-red receiver, gigabit Ethernet port, SPDIF, eSata 3Gbps, two USB 2.0 ports and a microSD card slot and will support 1080p Full HD output over HDMI and will only require 3 watts of power to run. Pre-orders of the CuBox Pro are available via SolidRun’s website where it is priced at $159.99. Shipping of the CuBox Pro is expected to begin before the end of January 2013.

By UbergizmoThe CuBox Pro Is An Open-Source Computer That Measures 2-inches Cubed

(Via Ubergizmo.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T11:19:45+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2646-the-cubox-pro-is-an-open-source-computer-that-measures-2-inches-cubed.html
Scosche boomBottle Dishes Out Tunes http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2645-scosche-boombottle-dishes-out-tunes.html boomBOTTLE speaker 061 640x276 Scosche boomBottle Dishes Out Tunes

[CES 2013] If you were in the desert dying of thirst, you would probably start to wonder whether your mind is playing tricks on you as the Scosche boomBOTTLE starts to dish out some tunes. Is it a mirage? How come a water bottle implement is ‘singing’? Well, that is because this is no mirage, and you are not imagining things despite being extremely dehydrated, as the Scosche boomBOTTLE functions as a wireless omnidirectional outdoor speaker complete with weatherproof housing, and it has been specially designed to fit in majority of the water bottle cages in the market, allowing it to stream music during your activity in the great outdoors.
(more…)

By Ubergizmo

(Via Ubergizmo.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T11:06:35+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2645-scosche-boombottle-dishes-out-tunes.html
Canon imageFORMULA P-208 Scan-tini Personal Scanner http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2644-canon-imageformula-p-208-scan-tini-personal-scanner.html scantini Canon imageFORMULA P 208 Scan tini Personal Scanner [CES 2013] Something tells me that the personal scanner market, while being an extremely niche one, does have its fair share of champions, and Canon could very well give Doxie a run for its money. For instance, the Canon imageFORMULA P-208 Scan-tini personal scanner has just been introduced to the masses, where it measures a mere 2’ wide and is more than capable of handling an interesting variety of documents, including receipts, business cards, photographs, bills and contracts, hitting a maximum stride of 8 pages per minute.

This makes it a snap for you to manage and organize personal documents, regardless of whether you are running a small or mobile office. All documents scanned will be changed to digital information which is easily searched, stored, and shared later. You can also hook it up to the optional WU10 Wireless Adapter & Battery Pack so that it can send scanned documents wirelessly on the spot, playing nice with Windows and Mac environments.

The Canon imageFORMULA P-208 Scan-tini personal scanner is expected to arrive later this month for $229, although different retailers might offer different prices. [Press Release]

(Via Ubergizmo.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T10:59:54+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2644-canon-imageformula-p-208-scan-tini-personal-scanner.html
Asus WL-330NUL Pocket Router Lives Up To Its Name http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2643-asus-wl-330nul-pocket-router-lives-up-to-its-name.html pocket router Asus WL 330NUL Pocket Router Lives Up To Its Name

At CES 2013, we did talk about at least one pocket-friendly router – be it in size or price point, but this time around, there is the Asus WL-330NUL Pocket Router that certainly looks as though it is going to be a worthy purchase for those who want a Wi-Fi router that is diminutive enough to snuggle in your pocket without missing a beat. In fact, it will also be powered when connected to a USB port, letting you use it plugged into your notebook without having to tote around an additional power cable. Nifty, to say the least.

Apart from that, the Asus WL-330NUL Pocket Router will also come with an Ethernet jack that enables you to plug in a cable from your modem or from a wired connection wherever you are, turning the small router into a device that lets you share the wired connection wirelessly with other devices – talk about an instant portable wireless hotspot! Tipping the scales at under an ounce, it will not be able to deliver uber strong signals, but for one or two users on the road, it ought to be sufficient.

By Ubergizmo

(Via Ubergizmo.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T10:10:25+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2643-asus-wl-330nul-pocket-router-lives-up-to-its-name.html
Atomic Battery On Sale For Consumer Use http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2642-atomic-battery-on-sale-for-consumer-use.html atomic battery sale Atomic Battery On Sale For Consumer Use

So you feel pretty smug that you have a portable battery pack to power up your depleted smartphone during a particularly gruelling day at work? Well, here’s news for you – how about a smartphone battery that does not require any charging – or changing, for that matter, for up to 20 years. This is made possible thanks to the wonders of nuclear fission, but it is safe to assume that the majority out there would be aghast at carrying radioactive material in their pockets. The thing is, a Chinese website is said to carry a ‘20 Years Non-Stop Non-Charging Nano-Tritium Nuclear Battery’ that retails for a whopping $1,122 after conversion.

The active material in these batteries would be tritium, and it is claimed that radiation caused by the decay of tritium is deemed safe, and unable to penetrate even the outermost layer of skin. For those wearing watches that glow in the dark, it is radioactive tritium in action there, so fret not with this City Labs-designed battery. City Labs claim that this battery can withstand a temperature range of -50℃ to 150℃, in addition to shrugging off extreme vibrations and altitude changes. Needless to say, not having to charge your phone ever is great, but what happens in a few years’ time when the smartphone landscape changes, and this battery is no longer compatible with the newer generation of devices?

By Ubergizmo.

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T09:52:02+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2642-atomic-battery-on-sale-for-consumer-use.html
Striker LED Light Mine Professional Won’t Blow You up But It Will Light You up http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2640-striker-led-light-mine-professional-wont-blow-you-up-but-it-will-light-you-up.html While I haven’t been around naval mines much, I have to say that this does look like a naval weapon of some kind. Thankfully, it’s not. It’s actually an intelligently-designed task light.

striker light mine

The Striker Magnetic LED Light Mine Professional is about the size of a baseball, and has 11 neodymium magnets on the spikes. Each of these will let you attach the light to a variety of surfaces. In the middle are 12 Lumen Tech LEDs that provide plenty of light, using one of four different modes. There’s a low-power spotlight, high-power floodlight, a red light for nighttime visibility and a high-visibility signal beacon.

striker light mine action

It sounds like it’s something quite useful to have in your Bug-out bag, in case of the upcoming zombie apocalypse. The Striker Light Mine Professional sell for about $18(USD) each over on Amazon.

light mine pro 2

[via Uncrate]

(Via Technabob.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T02:22:43+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2640-striker-led-light-mine-professional-wont-blow-you-up-but-it-will-light-you-up.html
Sweetbox Case Turns Raspberry into a Sweet Piece of Pi http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2639-sweetbox-case-turns-raspberry-into-a-sweet-piece-of-pi.html The Raspberry Pi is definitely a cool little computer, and while the system is pretty bare-bones, a couple of accessories will allow users to make it quite useful in a variety of different situations. Enter the Sweetbox case.

sweetbox case raspberry pi

The Sweetbox was developed by Paris-based designer Alexander Xanthakis. The translucent polyamide enclosure wraps the credit-sized computer firmly, while leaving the ports accessible so that it can be plugged into a monitor, TV screen and a keyboard. The protective case adds structure and rigidity so that the Raspberry Pi lasts longer and is easier to transport than as a standalone board.

sweetbox case raspberry pi alone

The Sweetbox was launched via a Kickstarter campaign, and you’ll have to pledge at least £15 (~$24 USD) to get yours, letting you turn your $35 PC into a $60 PC. There are also some pricey limited-edition versions of the Sweetbox, including the fluorescent SPACE (shown below) for £100 (~$163 USD) and a version crafted from sterling silver for a whopping £500 (~$813 USD).

raspberry pi sweetbox orange

[via designboom]

(Via Technabob.)
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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-20T02:20:17+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2639-sweetbox-case-turns-raspberry-into-a-sweet-piece-of-pi.html
RasPi and Arduino-Controlled Weather Station http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2636-raspi-and-arduino-controlled-weather-station.html RasPi and Arduino-Controlled Weather Station: "emb_06_mJosé Amores, also known as UC4FUN, built this cool weather station that features sensors and a RTC module plugged into an Arduino, connected via XBee to a Raspberry Pi with an SD card storing data and a wifi connection to the Internet, allowing José to publish the data online. [via [...]

Read the full article on MAKE

 

(Via MAKE Magazine.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-19T19:35:02+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/instrumentation-news/2636-raspi-and-arduino-controlled-weather-station.html
HotKeys Turns Your iPad Into a Keyboard Shortcut Machine http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2635-hotkeys-turns-your-ipad-into-a-keyboard-shortcut-machine.html Click here to read HotKeys Turns Your iPad Into a Keyboard Shortcut Machine

Mac/iPad: Keyboard shortcuts are a little hard to remember sometimes, but if you want to perform a quick action, they're the best way to get things done quick. If you're looking for an alternative to playing Twister with your fingers, HotKeys is a Mac and iPad app that turns your iPad into a shortcut machine. More »

(Via Lifehacker.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-19T19:04:32+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2635-hotkeys-turns-your-ipad-into-a-keyboard-shortcut-machine.html
First Looks: Adonit Jot Touch (2013) http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2634-first-looks-adonit-jot-touch-2013.html
Rebuilt for 2013, Adonit's second-generation Jot Touch ($90) is one of very few pressure-sensitive iPad styluses on the market, arriving at a lower price point with enhanced hardware and improved software support. On the surface, it looks extremely similar to its predecessor, sporting the same metal and rubber body, three buttons, power indicator light, and disc-based tip. But inside are a new Bluetooth 4 chip -- good for a month of battery life,…

(Via iLounge.)

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[email protected] (Jim Haseloff) 2013-01-19T18:59:55+00:00 http://www.synbio.org.uk/productivity-news/2634-first-looks-adonit-jot-touch-2013.html