No, this is not about their killer driver fiasco from a couple of weeks ago. In a sense, that was a success – at least the driver did what it was supposed to do! How about distributing a demo source code for a new product – probably the very first code a user will try to compile and run – that has obvious bugs which render it useless?
Easy Desktop Programming For Your Tiny Computer
Do you use your Raspberry Pi (or any other single-board computer) as a Linux desktop? How would you like to be able to program graphic applications for it, quickly and easily, using a modern IDE? Forget Python and makeshift “solutions”, it’s time for the real thing!
Continue reading Easy Desktop Programming For Your Tiny Computer
Connecting The Arduino To Lego Motors
I made a short, preliminary video explaining how you can interface LEGO “Power Functions” motors (and other components) to an Arduino. Do it at your own risk, because this will totally void any warranty… enjoy!
Inside An IKEA LED Light Bulb
I’m usually happy with my IKEA purchases, but this one particular LED bulb was a big disappointment. It was installed in a desk lamp (also from IKEA) that wasn’t used much; I seriously doubt it worked even 500 hours overall, when it started failing. I did not have the receipt to attempt exchange or refund, so the only thing left to do was crack it open and learn what’s inside.
Let The Blendering Begin
I have always been fascinated by computer graphics, in all its aspects – including 3D. Unfortunately, decent 3D software was always way too expensive for a hobbyist like me, or too complicated and inconvenient (did someone say POV-Ray?)
And then there’s Blender.
$50 In One Minute
Throwing away a stereo system because of a tiny broken piece of plastic? Not in this house!
Drawing With EVE
Recently, I was requested by a client to develop a certain control system using the VM800P35A. This “EVE development module” by FTDI Chip (EVE standing for Embedded Video Engine) is an interesting combination of an Arduino, a 3.5″ LCD display, and the FT800 Graphic Controller. In this “first impression” we’ll see what this module is all about, and what you can expect from it.
The Problem With Ints
Programming the Arduino, you’ll soon find yourself surrounded by strange data-type names, such as int, char, byte, long long, uint32_t and other oddities. What do they mean? Why are there some many of them? Which ones should you use? Let’s find out!
Meet My Beaglebone Black
A while ago I got a Beaglebone Black. You’ve heard of the Raspberry Pi, right? Well, it’s similar in concept, although the Beaglebone Black (BBB for short) is stronger and looks way more cool. At first I made it into a simple Ubuntu “PC” for my young children, but after they got an upgrade, I took it back and started over. This is a short report of what I managed so far.
Fixing a Bug
One of the benefits of playing with electronics and Making is that with time, you can start fixing gadgets around the house. I’m not talking about home appliances – these could really harm you if you don’t know exactly what you’re doing – but there are plenty of other opportunities. Take, for instance, this Remote Controlled Beetle toy:
