December 2024 Round up - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
It's the December 2024 Maker News round up! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Welcome to the December 2024 update
Wow! It’s already the end of 2024 - what a year it’s been!
Thanks to everyone for reading the newsletter over the past couple of years. We’ve been going from strength to strength. The newsletter was started back in 2022 - and we really weren’t sure if anyone would actually read it… We’re now (as of Dec 28th) up to 660 subscribers.
And, what’s really nice to see, is people do actually read each issue!
Anyway - on with the December round up. We’ve got a bunch of great videos and articles for you to see in the New Year with.
Things to watch
3D Printing PCBs?
Stephen Hawes continues his investigations into manufacturing PCBs without using a factory. This time he’s using an SLA 3D printer. I don’t want to spool it for you - but he does actually get a working PCB!
In-the-loop testing
Psychogenic Technologies explores how to transform simulation tests into live hardware probes for digital ICs, using hardware-in-the-loop techniques.
Plotting a Love Story
Becky Stern shares how she crafted her wedding place cards using the NextDraw pen plotter. Each card not only guides guests to their seats but includes a personal note.
Who needs a Tesla?
Electric cars have been around for a surprisingly long time - bleeptrack has one from 1993 that she’s been renovating. It’s looking pretty good!
Building a basic Operating System
James Sharman is taking his home build computer to the next level - it’s now got an Operating System. This is an amazing example of how simple bits of functionality can be combined into something really impressive.
Custom designed LED strip
We all love addressable LEDs - QuinLED likes them so much he’s designed and produced his own custom strip!
Things to read
Nokia 5110 - Back from the dead
If you’re a similar age to me, it’s highly likely you would have owned a Nokia at some point. If you miss those days, then this is definitely a must read for you.
Card Tricks Without Wires
PCB based Christmas cards with flashing lights are pretty common - but making one that doesn’t actually require a battery is nice. This card is powered entirely by “the holiday spirit”.
Drawbot Dreams
This project combines stepper motors, 3D printing and computer vision. It’s really nicely documented over on GitHub.
Imposter Attack
Ian Langworth decided to try and recreate a crazy ride from Legoland where kids are given laser guns and get to shoot at targets (what could possibly go wrong?). He’s made his own version using ESP32s.
Closing thoughts
What a great year for Makers it’s been. Looking back through the previous newsletters it’s amazing to see all the projects that people have been up to - and we’re just seeing the tip of the iceberg. Many projects never get documented, or their makers never get the recognition they deserve. So if you spot something good - let us know!
I’m really looking forward to 2025 - I think it’s going to be another great year!