tech e blog

Disposable Camera Taser

One of our readers sent in this nifty video tutorial on "how to make a 7000 volt taser from a $7 disposable camera".

Paper Clip Motor

Eric (FlyByPC) shows us how to make a "very simple motor from two paper clips, a length of enameled wire, a magnet, and a DC power supply."

RGB Mood Lamp

Learn how to make your own "mood light with high power leds and a few electronical components" with this tutorial.

The mood light fades between all the colours of the rainbow at the speed you selected. It really comes out well at night when other light are dimmed

[Source]

Floppy Disk Bag

Now here's a nifty DIY project that makes good use of all those 3.5-inch floppy disks you have laying around. To make your own, you'll need a "drill, 1/8" drill bit, pliers, floppy disks (CRUCIAL), links (bits of chain from your local bead store), nails, a plank o' wood, and a pen. Full instructions here. [Source]

MintyBoost USB Charger

The MintyBoost is a great project for those lazy Sundays. This DIY USB charger will provide your 5th-generation iPod with up to three hours of use on just two AA batteries. Step-by-step instructions can be found at Instructables -- a kit is available for $19.50. [Source]

9V LED Lamp

Here's a simple project that turns a 9V battery into a fully functional LED lamp. You'll need one new 9V battery, one gutted 9 volt battery, three high intensity LED’s (white, 25.000 mcd - 3,8 volt and 20 mA - 35 degrees), and one magnet. Full instructions here. One drawback:

The benefit of this is that you don't have any losses in a resistor and the battery will end up lasting longer - but the LED's will not operate on 100%.

[Source]

Bump Key

So you've heard about Bump Keys, now find out how to make one. Video after the jump.

These are keys with all the cuts at or slightly below the deepest level for a key made by the manufacturer, and a small amount of material removed at the tip, and, where applicable, at the shoulder - the part of the key that prevents the key from entering the lock too deeply

[Source]