Our editors have compiled a list of seven gadgets that you can make yourself. Which ones are your favorites? If you have any other projects that you’d like to add to this list, please leave us a comment.
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
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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]
