Latest from the Blog
Building a Simple Internet Clock Using an ESP32 and ST7789 LCD
If there was only one type of electronics project I was allowed to work on, I think it would be clocks. I’ve made a few and I regularly get the urge to make more. I’ve been thinking about making one using an ESP32 and LCD display that synchronises with internet time servers.. That’s how this…
ESP32 Mailbox and Driveway Alarm: What Worked and What Didn’t
Back on 3 October 2023 I wrote about the issues I was having building a notifier that would send alerts to our house whenever the mailbox flap opened or someone entered our driveway. Building a smart mailbox: Challenges and unsolved issues. After 2 and a half years and more tinkering I have made some progress.…
Rebuilding My SDR Tuning Knob in Spotted Gum
A while back I made a Tuning Wheel For SDR Radio on my PC Using an Angle Sensor. When plugged into a PC, this behaves as a mouse wheel. I’m using it as a tuning knob for SDR software. It works well but I was never very happy with the enclosure. I guess ‘enclosure’ is…
A communications speaker: Rescuing an AR-7 from the Tip Shop
We have developed a habit each Friday to go to our local Tip shop. They often have a few old speakers stacked in a corner. I don’t need any more but I always have a look, just in case there is something special that wants to come home with me. Normally there are a couple…
Comparing MT6701 Modules for Rotary Encoder Replacement
I recently came across a discussion on Reddit about MT6701 working modes, where someone referenced my earlier posts on using a magnetic sensor as a rotary encoder. That prompted me to look more closely at the different MT6701 modules currently available and how suitable they are as drop-in replacements for mechanical encoders. What’s the point…
Front Panel Designer: Free Software for Laying Out Project Panels
I have a great deal of trouble laying out items for project front panels, particularly where multiple holes have to be aligned. I don’t have a CNC router or other high tech tools. I just have old basic tools. I do have a basic saw bench but I think it is at least 70 years…
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