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A smart solar panel system you can 3D print, build, and learn from – with the Arduino® UNO™ Q board
Julián Caro Linares created an open-source smart solar panel system that you can 3D print and build yourself, using the Arduino® UNO™ Q board. This project not only teaches you about solar energy but also provides a hands-on learning experience. The system includes two servo motors to adjust the solar panel's orientation for optimal sun exposure, and it features a live dashboard that displays real-time energy readings, weather data, and other metrics.
AI Projects with Raspberry Pi — out now!
The new book, *AI Projects with Raspberry Pi*, explores practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) using Raspberry Pi hardware. It focuses on hands-on projects that are designed to be both functional and achievable, allowing readers to create and run their own AI applications at home. This isn't just theory; the projects range from computer vision to language processing, enabling users to interact with their devices in innovative ways.
20 FPS on E-Paper Display Without Help
The article discusses a project by Tony Weston that achieves 20 frames per second (FPS) on an electronic paper display using an ESP32 microcontroller, without the need for additional processing power. This is noteworthy because e-paper displays typically struggle with refresh rates, often limited to single-digit FPS in older models and around 10-20 FPS in mid-range devices, which usually require more advanced hardware.
nRF54L Arduino Core project brings Arduino support to Nordic Semi nRF54L wireless SoCs
The nRF54L Arduino Core is an open-source project aimed at providing Arduino support for Nordic Semiconductor's nRF54L wireless System on Chips (SoCs). This initiative kicks off with boards like the Seeed Studio XIAO nRF54L15 (Sense) and XIAO nRF54LM20A (Sense), as well as compatible Holyiot modules. While the nRF52 series has been supported in the Arduino IDE since the debut of the nRF52840-based Arduino Nano 33 BLE in 2019, the newer nRF54L Cortex-M33 microcontrollers lacked similar support until now.
The SmartFont Library for LED matrix displays
The SmartFont Library is a C++ font library created by Chaiwat Leanyos, specifically designed for embedded systems like Arduino and ESP32. Its main function is to efficiently render UTF-8 strings on pixel-based displays, and it includes special features for supporting the Thai language, ensuring that vowels and tone marks are correctly displayed without overlapping.
Replacing a $120k bowling center system with $1,600 in ESP32s
HN user section33 took on the challenge of replacing an outdated and costly scoring system at an abandoned 8-lane bowling center. The original system was priced between $80,000 and $120,000, with parts costing around $4,000 per lane pair. Instead of spending that much, he developed a more affordable solution called OpenLaneLink, which utilizes ESP32 microcontrollers to manage the scoring system for just $200 to $400 per lane pair.
Echolocation for Drones
A team at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) has developed a system using low-power ultrasonic sensors to help drones navigate in challenging environments, similar to how bats use echolocation. Traditional navigation methods like radar, lidar, and GPS can struggle in low-light or obstructed conditions, and they often consume too much power for battery-operated drones. By implementing a dual sonar array, the researchers created a more efficient sensing solution that performs well where visual systems fail.
Serious flaws found in a popular WiFi camera
Independent researcher Christopher Childress, known as BadChemical, recently published a detailed advisory on the TP-Link Kasa Spot EC71 WiFi camera, revealing significant security flaws. His investigation involved extracting the firmware directly from the camera using a CH341A programmer and conducting a thorough analysis, which led to the discovery of three critical vulnerabilities now documented as CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures).
Earn Your Junk Food with This Step-Counting Lock Box
Matty Benedetto from Unnecessary Inventions created a unique lock box that requires you to walk a certain number of steps to unlock your snacks. The idea is simple: you put your treat inside, set the step count to match the calories in the snack, and only after completing the steps will the box open. This approach aims to make indulging in junk food feel more rewarding by incorporating a bit of exercise first.
Build a retro home arcade with an Arduino® UNO™ Q board!
The article introduces the UNO Q Arcade bundle, a new project from Arduino that allows users to build their own retro home arcade using the Arduino UNO Q board. This bundle includes everything you need to create an arcade cabinet, complete with step-by-step instructions to help you get it up and running quickly—ideal for a weekend project.
Telling Time Through Literature
LitClock is an innovative clock that tells time using literary quotes instead of numbers. Created by GitHub user kapoorankush, this open-source project utilizes a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W and a 7.5-inch Waveshare e-paper display to show passages that correspond to each minute of the day, alongside the current date and local weather. With over 4,800 curated quotes, the e-ink display offers a paper-like appearance, making it a visually appealing alternative to traditional digital clocks.
Olimex's PICO-EVB Turns a Raspberry Pi Pico Into an Arduino, MicroPython Mini-PLC
Olimex has introduced the PICO-EVB, a carrier board that transforms a Raspberry Pi Pico into a mini programmable logic controller (PLC) for industrial applications. This board allows you to easily control relays and monitor high-voltage inputs, making it suitable for various automation tasks. You can plug in a Pico, Pico 2, Pico W, or similar microcontroller, although most models will require soldering male headers onto the Pico first.
Seven Ways to Install Magnets Into Your 3D Prints
The article discusses various methods for embedding magnets into 3D prints, which can enhance functionality but often presents challenges, especially with durability. It highlights seven techniques that avoid using glue, each with its own pros and cons. For instance, using friction to hold cylindrical magnets in place is one option, though employing an arbor press can improve the fit significantly.
We Pushed NRF24 to Its Limits | The Results Shocked Us
This article dives into an experiment using the NRF24 radio module to evaluate its transmission range by combining it with high-gain antennas and a 2-watt amplifier. The goal was to push the NRF24 to its limits and see how far it can reliably transmit, which is particularly useful for projects involving remote sensors or long-range communication.
From The Archives: MagTag Kitchen Timer
The article discusses the Adafruit MagTag Kitchen Timer project, which utilizes the MagTag’s eInk display, NeoPixels, and built-in buttons to create a versatile kitchen timer. This timer is rechargeable and programmable, making it a convenient tool for anyone who enjoys cooking or baking. Once set, the timer shows the remaining time and alerts the user with an alarm and flashing NeoPixels when the time is up.
M5Stack Core2 gets open-source firmware to reproduce OpenAI’s Codex Micro features
The M5Stack Core2 IoT controller has been outfitted with open-source firmware that mimics the functionality of OpenAI's Codex Micro macro pad. This project was developed by IAMLIUBO, allowing users to monitor and control AI coding agents more efficiently. The original Codex Micro is a well-designed device with a CNC-milled enclosure, rotary encoder, and joystick, but its $230 price tag and limited availability make it less accessible for many.
From the Adafruit Learning System: LED Campfire
The article from the Adafruit Learning System introduces a project called the LED Campfire, a creative way to simulate the ambiance of a campfire using LEDs. This project is particularly useful for those who want the campfire experience without the hassle of an actual fire, especially in places where open flames are not allowed. The LED fire effect is designed to be realistic enough to confuse kids, making it a fun addition to your outdoor gatherings.
Inky Bird Frame Birdwatcher Log #piday #raspberrypi
Henry Sowell created an intriguing project called the Inky Bird Frame, which allows birdwatchers to keep track of local bird sightings. Utilizing a Pimoroni Inky Impression display, this setup connects to iNaturalist, a platform for sharing biodiversity observations. The frame shows illustrations and images of birds seen in your area, providing a visual log of your feathered visitors.
Arduino Launches Plug-and-Play Modules for Long-Range Sensor Projects
Arduino has launched three new plug-and-play modules designed to simplify the integration of long-range sensor projects with motor drive systems. These boards allow developers to create complex I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) sensor networks without the hassle of complicated wiring, making it easier to connect multiple sensors and actuators.
Building a Stabilized "Chase Camera" Rover
The article details the creation of a stabilized "chase camera" rover, designed to capture smooth video footage while moving. The project leverages a gimbal system to keep the camera steady, even on uneven terrain, making it ideal for dynamic shooting situations.
LoRa radio communication devices for Raspberry Pi
LoRa radio communication devices are becoming popular for extending the range of Raspberry Pi projects beyond typical Wi-Fi limits. LoRa (Long Range) is a low-power, long-range radio technology ideal for Internet of Things (IoT) applications, capable of transmitting small amounts of data with a range of up to 15 kilometers in rural areas. It operates in the ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) bands, allowing anyone to broadcast without a license, but local regulations on frequency and power must be followed.
This CNC hot wire cutter was created specifically for making airplane wings
Michael Rechtin has developed a CNC hot wire cutter specifically designed for shaping foam into airplane wings, a crucial component for building remote-controlled (RC) aircraft. This automated machine operates across four axes, allowing for precise cuts that can create large and high-quality wing structures, overcoming the limitations of traditional 3D printing, which often struggles with build volume.
A Custom Security Camera Built for Complete Privacy
Clem Mayer has created a custom security camera designed for complete privacy, addressing concerns over data security with commercial options. The camera is built around the PocketBeagle 2, a single-board computer, and operates fully offline, performing person detection locally and storing recordings on local media. This means that all video footage remains under the owner's control, minimizing the risk of external breaches.
pico-usb-wifi firmware converts the Raspberry Pi Pico W into a driverless USB WiFi adapter
Pico-usb-wifi is an open-source firmware that transforms the Raspberry Pi Pico W into a driverless USB WiFi adapter. This setup is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, as long as they support USB CDC-NCM (Communications Device Class - Network Control Model). The firmware acts as a Layer-2 bridge, linking the Pico W’s wireless module to its USB interface, allowing it to function as an Ethernet-to-WiFi gateway.
An Ultra-Low-Noise Pre-Amp For Audio Applications
This article details the construction of an ultra-low-noise preamplifier using a JFET (Junction Field Effect Transistor) model JFE150 and an OPA202 operational amplifier. This design is particularly beneficial for applications requiring high sensitivity and low noise, making it ideal for high-impedance sensors, hydrophones, guitar pickups, microphones, and turntables.
The Weatherproof, Dust-Busting Arduino-Powered Solar Panel
Julián Caro Linares has created a smart solar panel system powered by an Arduino UNO Q that addresses common challenges faced by solar energy users. The system features a two-axis tracking mechanism that adjusts the panel's orientation to maximize sunlight exposure throughout the day. It uses several Modulino expansion boards to monitor environmental conditions, including light levels, temperature, humidity, and potential motion impacts.
Voice Control Goes Ultra-Low-Cost with Moonshine Micro
Moonshine Micro is a new open-source framework designed to enable voice interfaces on low-cost microcontrollers, specifically targeting devices like the Raspberry Pi RP2350. Unlike traditional voice systems that rely on powerful processors or cloud computing, Moonshine Micro is efficient enough to run entirely on the RP2350's limited resources, utilizing around 520 KB of RAM through smart memory management.
Run Ultralytics YOLO on Raspberry Pi with OpenVINO
Ultralytics has teamed up with Intel to demonstrate how to run the YOLO (You Only Look Once) computer vision models on Raspberry Pi using OpenVINO, Intel’s toolkit that optimizes deep learning inference. This guide provides a straightforward approach to setting up your Raspberry Pi, specifically the Raspberry Pi 4 or 5, to deploy these models effectively.
Arduino® UNO™ Q intranet web server helps this business run
Michel Willems, a photography and print shop owner in Ontario, Canada, has implemented an Arduino UNO Q to create a simple intranet web server that streamlines his business operations. This server allows him to track vital information such as current sales, passport office wait times, and environmental conditions both indoors and outdoors.
From FreeRTOS To Zephyr: A Practical Migration Guide for Embedded Developers – Jacob Beningo, Beningo Embedded Group
Jacob Beningo's presentation at the Open Source Summit North America 2026 focused on guiding embedded developers through the transition from FreeRTOS to Zephyr, a more modern real-time operating system (RTOS) gaining popularity for its modularity and ecosystem support. The talk highlighted the reasons behind this shift, emphasizing Zephyr's active community, extensive architecture support, and improved development tools, making it a compelling choice for complex embedded projects.
DIY Steam Controller Puck Offers Xbox, Switch, PlayStation Emulation Modes
Valve recently released a new version of the Steam Controller that includes a wired USB puck, which acts as both a charger and a low-latency wireless receiver. However, these pucks aren't available for standalone purchase, which is where the OpenPuck project by [safijari] comes in. This DIY project utilizes the Pro Micro NRF52840 board to replicate the puck's wireless receiver functionality, allowing users to connect their Steam Controllers just like they would with the official puck.
Newton’s Cradle Isn’t Really Perpetual
A recent Hackaday article discusses a version of Newton's Cradle that appears to operate indefinitely, thanks to some clever engineering. While it looks like a classic desk toy, it actually incorporates a battery and an electromagnetic system to keep the balls swinging. The setup uses an ESP32 microcontroller and a proximity sensor to detect the motion of the balls and injects a pulse of energy at just the right moment.
Installing MCUXpresso Installer in DevContainer
The article explains how to set up the NXP MCUXpresso Installer within a DevContainer using Docker, specifically for use in Visual Studio Code. This setup simplifies the installation and management of necessary development tools for microcontroller projects, ensuring that developers have a consistent and reliable environment.
Building a Better CNC Hot Wire Foam Cutter
Michael Rechtin has developed a DIY CNC (Computer Numerical Control) hot wire foam cutter that enhances the precision and versatility of foam cutting, especially for detailed shapes like airfoils. This project has been shared in a video and on GitHub, where you can access the design files and instructions if you're interested in building your own.
Close Encounters Hat #AdafruitLearnSystem
The Close Encounters Hat is a playful project inspired by the classic movie, designed to create an interactive experience with lights and sounds directly from the film. It features a photocell to detect light changes, triggering a GEMMA microcontroller to activate the show. The setup includes NeoPixels for colorful lighting effects and a piezo buzzer to produce sound effects, all cleverly concealed under the brim of the hat.
RISCBoy RISC-V homebrew portable game console
The RISCBoy is a homebrew portable game console built around the RISC-V architecture. This project, created by a developer named Wren6991, leverages the open-source nature of RISC-V to provide a customizable platform for gaming enthusiasts and makers. The console features a 3D-printed case, a color display, and various input controls, making it a unique device for retro gaming experiences.
This DIY Digicam Looks Like It Belongs on the USCSS Nostromo
The SATURNIX is a DIY digicam that channels a distinctive “cassette futurism” aesthetic reminiscent of the '70s and '80s sci-fi, particularly the look of the film Alien. This camera, built around a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W single-board computer, features a chunky design with a weathered plastic finish, looking like it stepped straight out of a retro sci-fi set. It has a simple user interface that complements its nostalgic vibe, complete with glitchy artifacts.
John Park’s CircuitPython Parsec: Nested Display Groups
John Park's article introduces the concept of nested display groups using displayio in CircuitPython, which is a version of Python designed for microcontrollers. This technique allows users to create complex graphical interfaces by organizing display elements into hierarchical groups. By doing this, you can manage multiple layers of graphics more efficiently, making it easier to build intricate user interfaces for projects.
How to build a circular LCD clock
The article details a project for building a circular LCD clock that incorporates a unique design aesthetic with practical functionality. The creator outlines the process of using an LCD screen in a circular format, which not only tells time but also presents a visually appealing alternative to traditional clocks.
Raspberry Pi Retro Handheld – 5″ Elecrow Build #3DPrinting #3DThursday
This article showcases a DIY project for building a handheld gaming console using a Raspberry Pi 2, featuring a 5-inch Elecrow screen and a built-in speaker. The project includes comprehensive assembly instructions and a Bill of Materials (BOM) for those interested in replicating it. Mark_McQ shared this creative design on Makerworld, highlighting its potential as an alternative to traditional gaming consoles.
QuadRF: The Open Source RF Camera That Lets You See Wi-Fi Signals
QuadRF is an open source radio frequency (RF) camera that enables users to visualize Wi-Fi signals and other wireless transmissions in real-time. It combines a complete 4×4 multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) software-defined radio system with a phased-array antenna and a Raspberry Pi 5, all running open source software. This setup allows hobbyists and educators to see the physical locations of wireless transmitters, such as Wi-Fi access points and drones, displayed as augmented reality overlays on smartphones or laptops.
Non-Cellular 5G Networks Simplified
DECT NR+ is a non-cellular 5G wireless technology that offers low-power, long-range communication, ideal for applications requiring reliable, near-real-time connections, like robotics and smart buildings. Unlike traditional cellular networks, DECT NR+ operates in the 1.9 GHz band and supports various network topologies, allowing for millions of connected devices.
NEW GUIDE: CircuitPython Chiptune Player #AdafruitLearningSystem @Adafruit
The article introduces a new project that allows you to create a chiptune music player using CircuitPython. This project involves building a compact arcade cabinet that houses a Feather RP2040 microcontroller, an I2S Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC), and a TFT FeatherWing display. The Feather runs CircuitPython code that leverages the synthio module to emulate the AY-3-8910 sound chip, which was widely used in vintage arcade games for generating music and sound effects.
A Four-Channel RS-422 Differential Line Receiver Module
The article outlines the construction and functionality of a four-channel differential line receiver module designed for balanced RS-422 and RS-485 data communication. This module is particularly useful in applications where long-distance data transmission is required, as it helps to minimize signal degradation and noise interference.
NEW LEARN GUIDE: I2S Microphones with CircuitPython #LEDs #AdafruitLearningSystem @Adafruit
CircuitPython now includes a new `audioi2sin` module starting with version 10.3.0-alpha.3, enabling users to work with I2S microphones like the ICS43434 and SPH0645LM4H on Raspberry Pi and Espressif devices. This addition is a game-changer for makers looking to incorporate audio functionality into their projects.
Gluing 8192 MCUs Together to Make a GPU
Bitluni's latest project involves assembling a staggering 8,192 CH570 microcontrollers (MCUs) into a functioning graphics processing unit (GPU) prototype. Each MCU houses a QingKe 32-bit RISC-V core, operating at a maximum clock speed of 100 MHz. The idea is to dedicate one MCU per pixel, but scaling this up leads to significant hardware costs and power requirements, reaching around $2,000 for the components and consuming approximately 2 kW of power for a resolution close to QVGA (320x200).
AI Rocky from ‘Project Hail Mary’
Leviathan Engineer has created an impressive robotic build named Rocky, inspired by the AI character from Andy Weir's sci-fi novel and upcoming film *Project Hail Mary*. This project utilizes a Raspberry Pi 5, a PCA9685 servo driver HAT, an internal microphone and speaker, and seven servos to enable Rocky's movement. An additional power supply supports the servos, which can be a bit too demanding for the Raspberry Pi alone.
Extract Fumes in Midcentury Style With Nixie Tubes and Military Surplus
This article showcases a unique fume extractor designed by George Conneely, which combines functionality with mid-century aesthetics, featuring Nixie tubes for a retro touch. Instead of using a typical industrial fan-and-filter setup, George opted for a visually appealing solution that also serves as a conversation piece in any workshop.
ARDEP Takes the Pain Out of Automotive Electronics
ARDEP (Automotive Rapid Development Platform) is an open-source hardware and software platform designed to streamline the development of automotive electronics. It integrates essential features like dual CAN-FD channels, LIN connectivity, and automotive-grade power protection into a single board, eliminating the need for multiple interface boards and expensive proprietary tools. ARDEP is built around an STM32G474VE microcontroller running Zephyr Real-Time Operating System (RTOS), making it easy for developers to start communicating with vehicle electronic control units without the hassle of assembling a complex setup.
Game Boy Advance Dev: Logging to the console
The article discusses a method for logging output to the console while developing for the Game Boy Advance (GBA). The author, Matt Greer, provides insights on how to implement console logging in GBA development, which can be particularly useful for debugging and analyzing game performance. He explains how to set up a simple logging system that writes messages to the GBA's debug console, making it easier to track down issues and understand the game's behavior.