Rising Edge Digital
Hardware & Embedded Systems for Software Developers
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.