tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45075729192531582752024-03-13T09:53:09.951-04:00AP Digital lightCollection of interesting projects, technical ideas, tutorials and DIY manuals because it's better to know how to make things than how to use things.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-71068359594772418882012-01-08T00:57:00.001-05:002012-02-21T06:02:21.178-05:00DIY digital piano standThis article describes how to build portable piano stand with two 12" x 60" shelves. It has enough room to accommodate full size 88 key digital piano, computer monitor, active speakers and other studio equipment.<br />
Project doesn't involve using expensive materials or complicated tools and can be completed even by beginner-musician without extraordinary trade skills (like myself). <br />
<br />
Homemade piano stand is fabricated from laminated pine panels and boards. It's a quite lightweight piece of furniture so one person can easy lift it and move around, but itself stand is solid and stable and doesn't wobble even during very emotional performance.<br />
<br />
All parts are fastened together with 1/4"-20 machine screws and stand can be disassembled within few minutes by using only screwdriver.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vLuMoft0mdY/Tvpkp5t1AtI/AAAAAAAABRM/y1hCtYX6Kgw/s1600/diy_piano_stand_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vLuMoft0mdY/Tvpkp5t1AtI/AAAAAAAABRM/y1hCtYX6Kgw/s320/diy_piano_stand_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Low budget home music studio.<br />
Featuring YAMAHA P95B.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
All parts and materials should be available at Home depot or any hardware store.<br />
Always remember: most stores may cut lumber for you upon request. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OtzipSOu5L4/TvpkqwRWReI/AAAAAAAABRk/sN1cHQoMICs/s1600/material.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OtzipSOu5L4/TvpkqwRWReI/AAAAAAAABRk/sN1cHQoMICs/s320/material.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tools and materials.</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
For this project I used:<br />
<br />
- pine laminated panel - 20" x 36" x 3/4" (2 pcs);<br />
- pine laminated panel - 12" x 60" x 3/4" (2 pcs);<br />
- pine board - 6" x 60" x 3/4" (2 pcs);<br />
- pine board - 2" x 3" x 60" (1 pc);<br />
- pine board - 2" x 2" x 96" (to be cut to pieces of various length );<br />
<br />
- 1/4"-20 x 2-1/2" machine screws and washers; <br />
- 1/4"-20 t-nuts; <br />
- 8 x 2" wooden screws;<br />
- 6 x 1-1/5" brass wooden screws and washers (optional). <br />
<br />
Required tools:<br />
- measuring tape;<br />
- carpenter's square; <br />
- wooden saw;<br />
- miter box (optional);<br />
- cordless drill;<br />
- screwdriver.<br />
<br />
I got lumber cut to length 60' at local Home depot and that's greatly simplified farther construction process and saved lots of labor time.<br />
<br />
Design of piano stand is very simple and the are no critical dimensions here.<br />
In my case only dimension of available wooden parts have determined geometrical shape and size of final product. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oH_e4ZCMgOY/TwUh1e0XhTI/AAAAAAAABTE/2h9gEs_ymrc/s1600/drawing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oH_e4ZCMgOY/TwUh1e0XhTI/AAAAAAAABTE/2h9gEs_ymrc/s320/drawing.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inner structure revealed.<br />
Right side panel not shown for clarity purpose.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
For main piano shelf distance from floor to the top surface of the shelf is 24". For comfortable performance player's elbows should be at the same level as keys and proper player's position should be achieved with adjustable chair.<br />
Top shelf is situated 1" below top edge of side panel.<br />
<br />
Assembling procedure is simple and fast: measure board, mark position for fastener, drill hole, install screws... <br />
<br />
2" x 2" supporting boards are permanently fastened to side panel with 2" wooden screws. <br />
To avoid wood splitting all screws should be inserted into predrilled holes. For wooden screw #8 I used 5/64" drill bit.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1gepIgaMAfI/TvpkrvyiCVI/AAAAAAAABR8/zAaqg2sgXtY/s1600/stand-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1gepIgaMAfI/TvpkrvyiCVI/AAAAAAAABR8/zAaqg2sgXtY/s320/stand-3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY piano stand.<br />
Main shelf. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In order to make stand easy to take apart, shelves are fastened with 1/4"-20 machine screws and t-nuts so I need only one screwdriver to disassemble joint.<br />
<br />
2" x 3" reinforcing beam is attached to one side of main shelf to eliminate possible sagging. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nfo9qqYEzmo/TvpkrVc9UAI/AAAAAAAABR0/G1U95eQN68Y/s1600/stand-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nfo9qqYEzmo/TvpkrVc9UAI/AAAAAAAABR0/G1U95eQN68Y/s320/stand-2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY piano stand.<br />
Main shelf with reinforcing beam attached. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Top shelf is combined from 12" x 60" pine laminated panel and 6" x 60" board to form T-shape. Shelf is mounted 1" below top edge of side panels so back board forms barrier to prevent things from rolling off the shelf. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BPwIuhAmWjw/TvpkrKGAyFI/AAAAAAAABRs/GNPIDLzlnys/s1600/stand-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BPwIuhAmWjw/TvpkrKGAyFI/AAAAAAAABRs/GNPIDLzlnys/s320/stand-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY piano stand.<br />
Top shelf view.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To make piano stand more stable and rigid one 6" x 60" board fastened to bottom of side panels.<br />
Since pine is very soft wood screw's head sinks below top level of board leaving ugly hole on board's surface. I've filled all holes with wood putty, let it dry and then sanded boards with fine grit sandpaper. After application stain and finish board looks very nice and smooth without any noticeable traces of screws. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_tMRxWvq8dA/TvpksIG43-I/AAAAAAAABSE/o_MpATTWk0U/s1600/stand-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_tMRxWvq8dA/TvpksIG43-I/AAAAAAAABSE/o_MpATTWk0U/s320/stand-4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY piano stand.<br />
Top and bottom back braces add rigidity. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've developed this project as portable piece of furniture. Final design of piano stand includes only five wooden parts (two side parts, two shelves, one bottom board) and 18 1/4"-20 machine screws and requires only one screwdriver to assemble it. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tMcb9QrrwMM/TvpkphIuz5I/AAAAAAAABRE/zux074y9FpU/s1600/stand-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tMcb9QrrwMM/TvpkphIuz5I/AAAAAAAABRE/zux074y9FpU/s320/stand-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY piano stand. <br />
Parts are stained and finished. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For final touch and to add more professional appearance to my homemade
piano stand I've used wonderful wood stain and acrylic top coat that I've
discovered at local <a href="http://www.leevalley.com/en/">Lee Valley shop</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qIaMsHx5avc/TvpkqGnLG2I/AAAAAAAABRU/P2Q4pEx2ieI/s1600/diy_piano_stand_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qIaMsHx5avc/TvpkqGnLG2I/AAAAAAAABRU/P2Q4pEx2ieI/s320/diy_piano_stand_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY piano stand. Completed. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I'm very impressed with this stuff. It's water based non toxic product made by "General finishes". Completely odorless and safe to use indoor. Drips and spills can be cleaned with water. Very short drying time. Greet selection of colors and different stains can be mixed to create custom color.<br />
<br />
Stain can be applied with foam brush and excess should be wiped out. Drying time is about 30 min. Stain lifts some wooden fibers but after quick polishing with piece of cloth wooden surface becomes nice and smooth. For additional protection few coats of acrylic top finish can be applied. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_UzpCye8r8/TvpkqvVAasI/AAAAAAAABRc/TWnviXqIsyo/s1600/general_finishes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_UzpCye8r8/TvpkqvVAasI/AAAAAAAABRc/TWnviXqIsyo/s320/general_finishes.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water based stain and top coat.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm pretty sure I've found just right material for all my future wooden projects.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-11703983307069501862011-05-02T22:55:00.005-04:002011-08-21T22:58:49.541-04:00DIY low budget front panel labelsSimple way to make fast and cheap front panel labels for DIY electronics.<br />
<br />
All stuff is available from Staples or other office supplier.<br />
Method requires PC, laser or jet printer and use of image editing software.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AYNemk6Ynrc/TkiBhWSDRxI/AAAAAAAABQI/aFZ0woAreis/s1600/label.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AYNemk6Ynrc/TkiBhWSDRxI/AAAAAAAABQI/aFZ0woAreis/s320/label.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY front panel label. Fast and easy. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
During my recent trip to local "Staples" I spotted couple interesting examples from Avery business product line:<br />
<br />
- self adhesive laminating sheets (product number 73603)<br />
- full size self adhesive white mailing label (product number 05265)<br />
<br />
I realized that it's a perfect material for making instant front panels labels for home-made electronic.<br />
Yes, idea is pretty old but, at least for me, proper material is no longer a problem;-) <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p5YsxuLLgNk/TkiBhsqtqkI/AAAAAAAABQM/hEyoWiKF2jg/s1600/label2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p5YsxuLLgNk/TkiBhsqtqkI/AAAAAAAABQM/hEyoWiKF2jg/s320/label2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Self adhesive mailing labels and laminating sheets from "Staples".</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
I've gave it a try and I'm very happy with results.<br />
Procedure is simple and easy to follow:<br />
<br />
- design and print image onto self adhesive mailing label;<br />
- cut label to the right size; <br />
- cut proper piece of self adhesive laminating sheet;<br />
- remove backing tape from laminating sheet and stick it onto printed label;<br />
- remove backing tape from label and stick laminated label onto case;<br />
- cut (carefully) holes and openings for pots, LEDs and displays; <br />
<br />
Another similar approach is to use laser or ink jet transparency film and spray adhesive.<br />
I've never tried it myself but some other people have got good results with it. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-70148683645009350122011-04-04T23:50:00.000-04:002013-09-02T23:59:54.546-04:00MicroLux PCB drill press<br />
PCB drill is the most important "must have" tool for every electronic hobbyist.<br />
There's huge variety of different homemade and professional hand held tools, flexible shaft attachments and bench top drill presses that can be used for that purpose. For my hobby project I normally use MicroLux mini drill press from <a href="http://micromark.com/">MicroMark.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DW8Pq8wpDbg/UdJEtIGeu_I/AAAAAAAABX8/Jwo46F7k3S4/s1024/Micro_Lux_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DW8Pq8wpDbg/UdJEtIGeu_I/AAAAAAAABX8/Jwo46F7k3S4/s400/Micro_Lux_1.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MicroLux 3-Speed Mini Drill Press with attachments.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
It's an extremely useful and easy to operate light weight tool for all kinds of light duty precision works. <br />
Motor is very quiet, high quality wobble free spindle and very smooth lever provide very accurate drilling even with smallest drill bits. <br />
There are 3 speed settings for work with different materials: 2100, 4500 and 6500 rpm.<br />
Speed can be set by shifting belt on 3-step pulley.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ueru7qWcduI/UdJEtB210jI/AAAAAAAABX0/XV1MhpIjvwU/s1024/Micro_Lux_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ueru7qWcduI/UdJEtB210jI/AAAAAAAABX0/XV1MhpIjvwU/s400/Micro_Lux_5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MicroLux mini drill press. Basic set.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<br />
Originally drill press is provided with 3-jaws chuck but it was not the best quality stuff so I've replaced it later with more convenient keyless chuck with capacity 0 - 1/4".<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hOY_Gq_7EoE/UdJEtH088iI/AAAAAAAABYA/L65-FM63EUw/s1024/Micro_Lux_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hOY_Gq_7EoE/UdJEtH088iI/AAAAAAAABYA/L65-FM63EUw/s400/Micro_Lux_4.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MicroLux drill press. Original chuck.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
Many different accessories can be added to increase tool effectiveness. <br />
To complete set I've purchased spare belt, flexible shaft, <br />
X-Y table attacment and miniature drill press vise.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u3mjYitP8iQ/UdJEtBYyu2I/AAAAAAAABX4/K9UFkFqckDg/s1024/Micro_Lux_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u3mjYitP8iQ/UdJEtBYyu2I/AAAAAAAABX4/K9UFkFqckDg/s400/Micro_Lux_6.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">X-Y table attachment.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
Main purpose of X-Y table attachment is to increase accuracy of hole positioning.<br />
Now it's much easier to drill strait line of 0.8 mm holes for 40 pins chip. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vTjNcSe9in8/UdJEtFr4-xI/AAAAAAAABYI/ZO03Ej_tAXE/s1024/Micro_Lux_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vTjNcSe9in8/UdJEtFr4-xI/AAAAAAAABYI/ZO03Ej_tAXE/s400/Micro_Lux_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MicroLux mini drill press with X-Y table attachment.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
Last useful accessory. Cute little drill press vise. Light aluminum frame is good only to hold tiny things.<br />
Don't even think to use it as anvil.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oPdz43UR-GY/UdJEtBf9KLI/AAAAAAAABYE/ulbD5mFM2K0/s1024/Micro_Lux_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oPdz43UR-GY/UdJEtBf9KLI/AAAAAAAABYE/ulbD5mFM2K0/s400/Micro_Lux_7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miniature drill press vise. 1-1/4" capacity.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
As some people may think, drill press with X-Y table attachment can be
used as improvised manual milling machine. Well, It works but only for
plastic, wood and other soft material.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nG_sqAhQsbU/UdJEtHnQugI/AAAAAAAABXw/WTIjM9XKzZA/s1024/Micro_Lux_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nG_sqAhQsbU/UdJEtHnQugI/AAAAAAAABXw/WTIjM9XKzZA/s400/Micro_Lux_3.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MicroLux 3-Speed Mini Drill Press. Good choice.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-66686283201934974302011-03-29T04:55:00.000-04:002011-03-29T04:55:29.522-04:00Door organizer<b>Home work shop. DIY door organizer.</b><br />
<br />
Just my few tips how to keep stuff organized;-)<br />
<br />
Since I've started making DIY projects for fun, I've learned few funny rules.<br />
- If you don't see thing, you don't use it.<br />
- If you don't use thing, you forget that you have it.<br />
- If you think that you don't have it you buy it, just in case.<br />
- One day you find old thing;-(<br />
With some variation cycle may repeat...<br />
<br />
In my opinion, good solution to avoid this problem is to keep track of tools and parts and have all stuff easy accessible.<br />
That means simple and effective storage system should be developed. <br />
As a part of this system and in attempt of reusing vertical empty areas in my room I've built improvised door organizer using casual things:<br />
<br />
- 2' x 4' standard perfboard;<br />
- couple 1" L-brackets;<br />
- 1" wooden screws;<br />
- box of paper clips;<br />
- carton and plastic food packaging. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gH28CuJ0xl0/TYsYtN8Z_zI/AAAAAAAABKg/0mO9n1S-Vzc/s1600/door-organizer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gH28CuJ0xl0/TYsYtN8Z_zI/AAAAAAAABKg/0mO9n1S-Vzc/s320/door-organizer.jpg" width="240" /> </a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY door organizer. Easy to find stuff when you need it. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
As a base carrier I used standard 2' x 4' perfboard from Home depot.<br />
It's a cheap, eco-friendly material and it already has nice pattern of predrilled holes. <br />
Perfboard is hanged on a door by means of two 1" L-brackets with attached machine screws.<br />
L-bracket is mounted on a top surface of door with 1" wooden screw and it will not affect exterior look in case it has to be removed. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Jru5I5zg9xI/TYsYsmFwIEI/AAAAAAAABKY/V0_YED_R2YU/s1600/door-bracket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Jru5I5zg9xI/TYsYsmFwIEI/AAAAAAAABKY/V0_YED_R2YU/s320/door-bracket.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY door organizer. Mounting L-bracket. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>Mounted brackets perfectly fit into overhead door frame gap and don't obstruct door movement. <br />
Perfboard is hanged onto screws and fastened with nuts.<br />
To eliminate any noise effects while opening and closing door I attached few soft rubber bumps to back side of perfboard.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-yvwdnXcfI4M/TYsYsaZFXdI/AAAAAAAABKQ/Y96PWW0W9i4/s1600/door-bracket-2-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-yvwdnXcfI4M/TYsYsaZFXdI/AAAAAAAABKQ/Y96PWW0W9i4/s320/door-bracket-2-.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY door organizer. Bracket doesn't affect door movement. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>There are many types of hooks that are designed to be used with perfboard but many other things can be used in a similar way. In my case I used regular paper clips. After few trials I've developed proper hook shape.<br />
Of course if you have to hung hundred things, forming those clips may became boring very fast ;-)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Tt0JNrMQpYc/TYsYtS7065I/AAAAAAAABKc/SYektYVnWas/s1600/hook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Tt0JNrMQpYc/TYsYtS7065I/AAAAAAAABKc/SYektYVnWas/s320/hook.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY door organizer. Custom-made hooks for perfboard. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Rest of building materials I've dug out from the blue garbage bin. <br />
Colorful designer pouches for small stuff are made completely from recycled food packaging.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ngLOACt-IzQ/TYsYsSAOIBI/AAAAAAAABKU/gdQfdsQxIn8/s1600/pouch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ngLOACt-IzQ/TYsYsSAOIBI/AAAAAAAABKU/gdQfdsQxIn8/s320/pouch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY door organizer. Pouch for small stuff. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-62127090221716289642011-03-19T09:30:00.002-04:002011-03-19T18:49:55.837-04:00DIY bookshelf<b>Home workshop. DIY bookshelf.</b><br />
<br />
Another DIY project inspired by great post from <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Cheap-easy-low-waste-bookshelves/">Instructables</a>: home-made, cheap and beautiful bookshelf. <br />
It's a very simple and portable bookshelf that can be completed in a half an hour only with cordless drill, hand saw and wrench.<br />
<br />
Design can be easily adapted to fit any room or even closet.<br />
You can get high grade boards and make decent bookshelf for living room or use some scrap lumber and build storage shelf for your garage.<br />
<br />
My version of bookshelf is 1' wide and 6' tall.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wyUXNjprUnM/TW3_slcje9I/AAAAAAAABJE/8CqWbeEypgs/s1600/bookshelf-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wyUXNjprUnM/TW3_slcje9I/AAAAAAAABJE/8CqWbeEypgs/s320/bookshelf-6.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bookshelf is fully populated. I think I'll build another one;-) </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Material and parts I used for project:<br />
<br />
(6) 4' long 1" x 12" laminated board for shelves;<br />
(4) 6' long 1" x 6" boards for posts;<br />
(12) 14" long pieces of 5/8 threaded rod; <br />
pack of 5/8 acorn nuts and washers.<br />
<br />
I've got custom cut lumber and threaded rods from local Home depot, acorn nuts - from Fastenal. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lgkCrCfJ5ew/TW3_s9s_pQI/AAAAAAAABJI/AGJk1Ul9SVQ/s1600/bookshelf-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lgkCrCfJ5ew/TW3_s9s_pQI/AAAAAAAABJI/AGJk1Ul9SVQ/s320/bookshelf-2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY bookshelf. Lumber, threaded rods, washers and nuts. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Main idea of this design is that shelf boards are simply clumped between side posts. <br />
<br />
Assembling process is ridiculously simple:<br />
<br />
- mark shelves position on posts;<br />
- drill holes;<br />
- insert pieces of threaded rod;<br />
- install top and bottom shelves, check level to make sure frame is square, tight nuts;<br />
- install rest of shelves and tight nuts.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--6JBFFy6wpI/TW3_tNKlNQI/AAAAAAAABJM/ZwMmyKm2gxw/s1600/bookshelf-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--6JBFFy6wpI/TW3_tNKlNQI/AAAAAAAABJM/ZwMmyKm2gxw/s320/bookshelf-3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY bookshelf. Assembling.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Completed bookshelf is light but very sturdy. 6" wide posts result in large contact area between post and shelf board, and because of friction, shelf board cannot be moved unless nuts are loose.<br />
<br />
Floor shelf is dedicated to hold printers, office supplies and other heavy stuff and its height is 1' 6".<br />
Clearance between rest of shelves is 1' so they can accommodate any book of large format. <br />
<br />
For safety reason tall shelf should be anchored to wall stud. I've used ultrasonic stud finder to locate studs behind drywall sheet then fastened shelf to studs using couple of metal L-brackets and 2" wooden screws. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jCROzLG-dvw/TW3_taFCTXI/AAAAAAAABJQ/vnL9FTCw3F8/s1600/bookshelf-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jCROzLG-dvw/TW3_taFCTXI/AAAAAAAABJQ/vnL9FTCw3F8/s320/bookshelf-4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bookshelf completed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Final words about fasteners. Acorn nuts are not mandatory. They are more expensive but look more aesthetic and, most important, cover sharp ends of rod. When cutting rod, bear in mind that acorn nut should catch 2-3 threads of rod. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gaPTcbwx9fg/TW3_t5i_BTI/AAAAAAAABJU/fgZ8L6VVejM/s1600/bookshelf-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gaPTcbwx9fg/TW3_t5i_BTI/AAAAAAAABJU/fgZ8L6VVejM/s320/bookshelf-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DIY bookshelf. Acorn nut.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-9623853414546284462011-03-01T04:33:00.003-05:002011-03-08T04:13:30.879-05:00PVC shelf<b>Home workshop. DIY PVC shelf.</b><br />
<br />
Inexpensive and very easy to make storage solution for busy home workshop.<br />
This kind of expandable shelf can be easily modified and scaled to fit any work area.<br />
All materials like PVC pipes, fittings and PVC cement should be widely available at hardware stores or plumbing supplier.<br />
PVC pipe doesn't require any finishing but it can be stained to match rest of furniture in your house.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0BELdkxN11I/TVJesNtwCpI/AAAAAAAABFw/g52OZhuHopg/s1600/PVC-shelf-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0BELdkxN11I/TVJesNtwCpI/AAAAAAAABFw/g52OZhuHopg/s320/PVC-shelf-7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PVC shelf. Aesthetic and affordable storage for your home. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Geometrical configuration of shelf seems to be not the optimal but at that moment I couldn't find T-fitting so I used what was available. Anyway, it was only prototype to test concept. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Expandable shelf is made from 2" PVC pipe and 1/2" particle boards and requires only cordless drill, measuring tape, and hand saw to build.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ucxStV_Y_eQ/TVJel5wKoAI/AAAAAAAABFY/cgzuuUcM208/s1600/PVC-shelf-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ucxStV_Y_eQ/TVJel5wKoAI/AAAAAAAABFY/cgzuuUcM208/s320/PVC-shelf-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shelf parts are ready for assembling. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Most of the building time I've spent on measuring and cutting pieces of pipe but further assembling was a breeze.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YlV_HIc6IZs/TVJemB0UwQI/AAAAAAAABFc/e15IJxSSau0/s1600/PVC-shelf-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YlV_HIc6IZs/TVJemB0UwQI/AAAAAAAABFc/e15IJxSSau0/s320/PVC-shelf-2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PVC shelf. First section. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
As all of my furniture, shelf is designed to be portable and modifiable. <br />
Vertical sections are permanently glued with PVC cement and cannot be disassembled but horizontal pipes are fastened only with machine screws so whole shelf can be taken apart just in few minutes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AUEor4L_6l8/TVJemG1hVXI/AAAAAAAABFk/LmkEYvO3djQ/s1600/PVC-shelf-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AUEor4L_6l8/TVJemG1hVXI/AAAAAAAABFk/LmkEYvO3djQ/s320/PVC-shelf-4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PVC shelf. Close view of corner post details.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SnLKT3PolBA/TVJemQJftsI/AAAAAAAABFo/dUJe3Cj4eKk/s1600/PVC-shelf-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SnLKT3PolBA/TVJemQJftsI/AAAAAAAABFo/dUJe3Cj4eKk/s320/PVC-shelf-5.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PVC shelf. Close view of middle post details.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N4wCYotbbxo/TVJemOWF1YI/AAAAAAAABFg/3Zz5l3WhZbY/s1600/PVC-shelf-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N4wCYotbbxo/TVJemOWF1YI/AAAAAAAABFg/3Zz5l3WhZbY/s320/PVC-shelf-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shelf assembling. Tool for holes alignment.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Distance between vertical sections is 3". For greater span corner braces should be incorporated into design to avoid pipe sagging under load.<br />
Shelf can be expanded in length by adding more vertical sections.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-am59SMO2dSc/TVJesKMj_yI/AAAAAAAABFs/A2Udx9DaTi8/s1600/PVC-shelf-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-am59SMO2dSc/TVJesKMj_yI/AAAAAAAABFs/A2Udx9DaTi8/s320/PVC-shelf-6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PVC shelf. Frame is completed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Shelf frame is 2" wide. Home depot usually carries huge variety of precut 2" sheets like particle board, perforated boards or MDF that can be used as shelf boards.<br />
Shelf board are attached to frame with cable ties.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-4184521395350638802011-02-21T07:29:00.006-05:002011-03-08T03:47:40.242-05:00DIY loft bed<b>Dream home workshop. DIY geek's bed and desk.</b><br />
<br />
I think, it's a common public opinion, that most geeks, instead of going to bar to get some beer and pick up hot chicks, are spending spare time at home <strike>watching p</strike> working in their own home mechanical workshop, electronic lab, musical studio, you name it.<br />
And this is absolutely correct. Home workshop is a only place where dreams and desires of creative person come true. That's why one could stay there 24/7 tinkering with stuff, enjoying freedom in creativity and power of imagination or ... just playing computer games;-)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8qKH_WOW1Wg/TVJaJZw-47I/AAAAAAAABEk/wpyl-hShbWI/s1600/home-workshop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8qKH_WOW1Wg/TVJaJZw-47I/AAAAAAAABEk/wpyl-hShbWI/s320/home-workshop.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mad scientist's lab in olden days.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Designing and building perfect workshop may take long time and significant efforts but learning from other people's experience usually sparks your imagination and finally saves you time and money.<br />
In this and in following posts I'm going to share some tips and ideas that I've implemented while I was building my home workshop.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
I've got inspiration to build this project when I was reading <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Loft-Beds/">instructables article</a> about making loft bed. Yea, it's was brilliant idea to combine bed and workbench/desk and wisely reuse precious and limited space in my overloaded with stuff and messy lab. <br />
<br />
My old bed was just terrible chunk of obsolete furniture that's occupied so much space but can be used only for six hours every day, besides my Wall-e was always having hard time getting his favorite ball from under bed if it was accidentally dropped there.<br />
<br />
Well, decision is made. For my new home workshop I'm going to make dream workbench/desk with attached sleeping compartment;-) <br />
<br />
Project requires minimum set of hand tools, measuring tape, cordless drill, c-clamps and common materials and hardware from Home depot or local construction supplier. At Home depot all lumber and plywood can be cut to custom size by request. <br />
<br />
List of materials I've used for this project. All boards are standard 8' length. <br />
<br />
- 8 2x6; <br />
- 9 2x4; <br />
- 4 2x3; <br />
- 3 sheets of 3/4 plywood, dimensions 2' x 4';<br />
- 3 5/8 melamine particle boards, dimensions 2' x 4'; <br />
- pack of 4" long 5/16 carriage bolts, nuts and washers;<br />
- pack of 2 1/2" wood screws. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mqe3ZX6-IIc/TVJaJvX_iII/AAAAAAAABEo/M32TrgGQZBI/s1600/material.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mqe3ZX6-IIc/TVJaJvX_iII/AAAAAAAABEo/M32TrgGQZBI/s320/material.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lumber for project.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I've designed very simple loft bed that is capable to accommodate standard mattress with dimensions 39" x 75".<br />
<br />
Basically loft bed consists of three identical rectangular frames attached to posts. <br />
Dimensions of each frame are 39 1/2" x 75 1/2" and it's consists of four pieces of 2x4: two boards 72 1/2" long and two boards 39 1/2" long.<br />
<br />
To build loft bed compatible with different mattress size you should recalculate dimensions accordingly.<br />
Distance from floor to the top level of bed frame is 60" and for desk frame distance is 28". <br />
Bottom frame can be at floor level or few inches above it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7yQebcSVQQ8/TWHf5912-0I/AAAAAAAABHA/WbTCccdl-Zo/s1600/assembly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7yQebcSVQQ8/TWHf5912-0I/AAAAAAAABHA/WbTCccdl-Zo/s320/assembly.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loft bed for pure geek. Beta release. ;-)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Each posts is made from two 2x6 boards 72" long. Boards are bundled together to form L-shape and fastened with wood screws. To make assembling easier and avoid wood splitting I've drilled 3/32 pilot holes for every wood screw. <br />
To avoid confusion and mistakes during assembling I suggest to label posts (front-left, front-right, back-left, back-right) and all frame boards. <br />
<br />
After all posts has been assembled next step is marking and drilling holes for carriage bolts. It's easier to do if posts are laying on the floor. <br />
<br />
Start with two posts of one side (left or right): <br />
- get left-front and left-back posts and place them on the floor;<br />
- mark position for bed and desk frame (in my case distance 60" and 28" from floor end of post).<br />
- clamp short (39 1/5") frame pieces to posts, guiding by level marks;<br />
- at first drill pilot hole of small diameter through frame board and side of post; <br />
- drill final hole of proper diameter;<br />
- mark frame boards, unclamp them and put aside for assembling stage. <br />
<br />
The same algorithm should be implemented for posts of other side. <br />
Next step is the to perform the same procedure but using long (75 1/2") frame boards and holes should be drilled in front and back sides of posts. When clamping long board to post, 1 1/2" spacer should be inserted between end of board and inner side of post. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLN7v75lZrQ/TVJaJ0-QPqI/AAAAAAAABEs/hLBcN-WQHkc/s1600/material-prepaired.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLN7v75lZrQ/TVJaJ0-QPqI/AAAAAAAABEs/hLBcN-WQHkc/s320/material-prepaired.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Material is ready. Let's begin assembling. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
In next stage we are going to play witch oversized constructor set, so put your wrench into tool belt and pack your pockets with nuts and bolts;-) <br />
If you don't have helper to hold posts while you are attaching boards, make temporary supports for posts by clamping spare pieces of 2x4 to posts. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6O5S0g46LrA/TVJaKBPLCTI/AAAAAAAABE0/9bW1djXIfGk/s1600/assembling-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6O5S0g46LrA/TVJaKBPLCTI/AAAAAAAABE0/9bW1djXIfGk/s320/assembling-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To make temporary support clamp piece of lumber to post. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g7MW9Vp_v3A/TVJaKKa5IEI/AAAAAAAABEw/ECyD5EEQDG4/s1600/assembling-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g7MW9Vp_v3A/TVJaKKa5IEI/AAAAAAAABEw/ECyD5EEQDG4/s320/assembling-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With some tricks assembling can be done by one person.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Install top and bottom frames but before tightening nuts check geometry of object with big carpenter's level.<br />
Although we are not building the Great Pyramid but you may want to adjust it if shape is not perfect. In my case, I've found that floor is slopped so I had to install 1/2" spacers under posts to reduce margin of error to acceptable level. After adjustment has finished, install desk frame and tight all nuts. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fudz4tO3Y6g/TVJaUMVAmSI/AAAAAAAABE4/MRgEWYMcSMU/s1600/assembling-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fudz4tO3Y6g/TVJaUMVAmSI/AAAAAAAABE4/MRgEWYMcSMU/s320/assembling-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Object is getting its shape. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Optional addition to the design. Blocks of 2x4 are fastened under frame's corners to serve as extra support. Anyway I had some leftover pieces of lumber;-) <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1h7C-W-PPSU/TVJaUZ1DkMI/AAAAAAAABFA/TXRrl6j9Zd4/s1600/assembling-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1h7C-W-PPSU/TVJaUZ1DkMI/AAAAAAAABFA/TXRrl6j9Zd4/s320/assembling-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corner's design. Note additional support block. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Well, main part is done. As middle support beams I used 2x3 boards 36 1/2" long: 3 boards for desk frame and 2 boards for bed frame. Boards are evenly spaced and fastened with two wood screws on each side. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YBYz7Ksi890/TVJaUfB28UI/AAAAAAAABE8/prybO2zzhAs/s1600/assembling-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YBYz7Ksi890/TVJaUfB28UI/AAAAAAAABE8/prybO2zzhAs/s320/assembling-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Structural framing is done.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
As top material for desk I've used 5/8 melamine particle board. It's possible to buy one big piece of custom cut board but it would be a problem to handle it around.<br />
From the beginning this project was meant to be portable and easy adjustable so I've bought 3 standard 2' x 4' sheets and got them trimmed to length 39 1/2". Middle support beams of desk frame are installed 2' apart so every top board is supported from its four sides.<br />
Boards are fastened to frame with wood screws. Hard material of particle board requires drilling of 3/32" pilot holes and countersinking.<br />
Overall length of 3 2' boards is 3" shorter than size of frame but I'm going to use this gap to feed power cables to all desk equipment. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EJm_3sX5fOw/TVJaUaay25I/AAAAAAAABFE/YXaE-zsoHJA/s1600/assembling-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EJm_3sX5fOw/TVJaUaay25I/AAAAAAAABFE/YXaE-zsoHJA/s320/assembling-6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Desk is finished. Lot of room for my equipment. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Top surface of bed is made from 3/4" plywood. Again I've used 3 standard 2 x 4' sheets trimmed to length 39 1/2". Boards are fastened to frame with wood screws.<br />
As ladder rungs I've used 2x3 boards 42 1/2" long. Boards are spaced 15" apart and fastened to posts with wood screws.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dmksvI8Z5LQ/TVJaUXI2bzI/AAAAAAAABFI/pQSP0cB9R3A/s1600/completed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dmksvI8Z5LQ/TVJaUXI2bzI/AAAAAAAABFI/pQSP0cB9R3A/s320/completed.jpg" width="320" /> </a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Object is completed. Desk is fantastic, eh? </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Project is completed. It's a heavy and solid desk with optional bed but it can be easily disassembled and moved by one person. And it's a real green and eco-friendly project.<br />
<br />
And one final tip. Instead of getting bulky and squeaky mattress I've found more practical solution. I've bought two cheap sleeping bags (7$ each on sale) and one of them serves as a mattress and another as a blanket;-)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-11616454272889525912011-02-03T04:48:00.003-05:002011-02-10T14:07:32.532-05:00DRL light problem<b>How to fix DRL light problem in a Honda Civic.</b><br />
<br />
Recently my 2003 Honda Civic has developed minor electrical issue.<br />
Occasionally, upon starting engine, DRL (Daytime Running Lights) warning light may come ON with annoying buzzing sound. It may stay ON for few minutes and then goes OFF itself.<br />
When it's happened first time, I checked front lamps and DRL lights were flickering.<br />
<br />
To prevent things from getting worse and, maybe, save a couple bucks, I've started looking for solutions among technical web community. Internet search has revealed that this is a quite common failure and it's caused by DRL module itself. In most cases described problem has arisen because of degraded soldering joints on a module PCB.<br />
<br />
Well, we've got tip so let's check it out...<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
DRL relay module is a gray box with connector on a bottom, labeled MITSUBA RZ-0126. It's located under the dash to the left of the steering column. DRL module is accessible through removable cover under steering wheel. It's fastened to metal bracket with one 10mm bolt. <br />
<br />
<span id="goog_1969242294"></span><span id="goog_1969242295"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TUkhzba-uSI/AAAAAAAABB4/WXG_-riREHI/s1600/drl-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TUkhzba-uSI/AAAAAAAABB4/WXG_-riREHI/s320/drl-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Box can be easily open with flat screwdriver. One sided module PCB contains two 12V relays and other electronic components. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TUkhzZwu69I/AAAAAAAABB8/jdb3St7WQz8/s1600/drl-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TUkhzZwu69I/AAAAAAAABB8/jdb3St7WQz8/s320/drl-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Let's see what we have here...<br />
Aha, all culprits are right there!!! Cracked soldering joints of relay pins are clearly visible.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TUkhzrSvxAI/AAAAAAAABCA/FjNpnhfTMbY/s1600/drl-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TUkhzrSvxAI/AAAAAAAABCA/FjNpnhfTMbY/s320/drl-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Long lasting annoying problem has been fixed in a 10 seconds by resoldering all 7 pins of every relay.<br />
DRL module from auto parts supplier would cost at least 50$ ;-)<br />
<br />
Of course my case was easy one and DRL warning light on your car may lit because of other possible reasons but anyway, DRL relay module should first thing to check.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-525002125107108862011-01-24T05:31:00.007-05:002011-02-26T18:34:43.508-05:00DIY laser spirograph (part 8)<b>DIY home laser show. PIC based spirograph. Now - version 2.</b><br />
<br />
Finally, new version of PIC based laser spirograph is fully completed . Modified spirograph's acquired new design, learned new cool tricks, and got new box too.<br />
Introduction of new programmable features resulted in addition of extra control elements to the device and new spirograph looks like quite sophisticated apparatus.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TTgBea7xRxI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/ls3KOOd7dCw/s1600/V2-completed-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TTgBea7xRxI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/ls3KOOd7dCw/s320/V2-completed-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PIC based laser spirograph V2. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TTgBen9tTOI/AAAAAAAAA_U/tMmM8GLWSxg/s1600/V2-completed-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TTgBen9tTOI/AAAAAAAAA_U/tMmM8GLWSxg/s320/V2-completed-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PIC based laser spirograph V2. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
In order to make small and compact device I've added one fixed mirror to conventional square setup.<br />
Additional mirror turns laser beam 90 degrees and now it's possible to fit three 40 mm fans and low power laser module inside standard 4 x 4 x 2.5 enclosure. All parts are installed on a base panel using simple and cheap technique. Mirrors are attached to the base with 1/2" double-sided adhesive tape. Laser module is mounted on a wooden spacer. After manual alignment mirrors and laser are secured with hot glue.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TTgBecYabmI/AAAAAAAAA_E/dJkFj5ShpYc/s1600/V2-mounting-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TTgBecYabmI/AAAAAAAAA_E/dJkFj5ShpYc/s320/V2-mounting-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modified optical setup of new laser spirograph.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Since every component being installed on a control panel requires at least two electrical connections, it's quite easy to end up with messy wiring. To keep wires in order I've used improvised wire holders made from PVC tubing.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TTgBeaesMUI/AAAAAAAAA_I/7qXvyb1dw_U/s1600/V2-mounting-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TTgBeaesMUI/AAAAAAAAA_I/7qXvyb1dw_U/s320/V2-mounting-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spirograph controller wired with new control panel. Note home-made wire holders. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TTgBeQ9ZQnI/AAAAAAAAA_M/JiXLaywqC2c/s1600/V2-mounting-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TTgBeQ9ZQnI/AAAAAAAAA_M/JiXLaywqC2c/s320/V2-mounting-3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laser spirograph V2. Ready for powering up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Also I've installed optional memory access LED indicator and useless but very dramatic looking blue LEDs background light. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TT1BeMON38I/AAAAAAAAA_4/puSzxnak5Ls/s1600/V2-performance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TT1BeMON38I/AAAAAAAAA_4/puSzxnak5Ls/s320/V2-performance.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laser spirograph V2. Personal home laser show.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Face panel is made from brushed aluminum. Labels are printed using <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2009/12/simple-technique-to-make-pcb-using.html">heat toner transfer technology</a>.<br />
For extra protection face panel is coated with transparent acrylic lacquer. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/09/diy-laser-spirograph-part-7.html">(part 7) <<<---</a> DIY laser spirograph </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-32611573401640647222010-12-24T05:05:00.005-05:002011-04-21T00:59:27.176-04:00Wood block LED clock (part 2)<b>Making wooden enclosure.</b><br />
<br />
Box can be made from any available material i.e. wooden boards, MDF or plywood.<br />
<br />
I had some MDF sheets in my scrap container so I've build simple frame from narrow panels of 1/2" MDF.<br />
Before joining pieces together I've applied some carpenter's glue to matching surfaces. Glue fills gaps and add extra strength to joint.<br />
<br />
All parts fastened with 1" wooden screws. To avoid material splitting I've drilled 1/8" pilot holes for screws and made countersinks.<br />
<br />
Front and back panels are made from 1/4" MDF and attached to frame with glue and screws. Wooden putty can be applied over top of screw heads to make surface even and smooth.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnLlwYiiYI/AAAAAAAAA5M/DWc7hBXQ-gA/s1600/box-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnLlwYiiYI/AAAAAAAAA5M/DWc7hBXQ-gA/s320/box-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's a good habit to keep scrap material just in case. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnLl5uFdyI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/2kcoFqXICfU/s1600/box-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnLl5uFdyI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/2kcoFqXICfU/s320/box-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frame built with glue and wooden screws.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnLmLEaPhI/AAAAAAAAA5U/FiCoeFXbd-g/s1600/box-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnLmLEaPhI/AAAAAAAAA5U/FiCoeFXbd-g/s320/box-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Box assembled.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>As front window I've used piece of plastic grid from luminescent light fixture.<br />
Window grid physically isolates LEDs, eliminates color mixing, forms nice illuminated dots and prevents front sheet of veneer from flexing inward. For better contrast grid is painted black. <br />
Window frame is mounted flush with front surface and secured with hot glue.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnLmExzoeI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/btAKYT1pwi0/s1600/box-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnLmExzoeI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/btAKYT1pwi0/s320/box-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front window.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>To finish box I've used assorted veneer samples set from local woodworking store.<br />
I've chosen transparent maple veneer to cover front panel. For sides and top I've decided to use dark walnut veneer so it would make nice contrast with face panel. Back and bottom panels are hidden from observer so I've just painted them black.<br />
<br />
Veneer application is pretty simple. Veneer piece should be cut slightly larger than area to which veneer is being applied. It can be glued with the same carpenter's glue or similar adhesive suitable for wooden material. <br />
<br />
Excess of glue and accidental drips can be easily cleaned with damped cloth. After glue has dried, extra material around edges should be cut with x-acto knife (Caution, it's very sharp!). Corners can be sanded with fine sandpaper. As any other wooden material veneer can be stained, finished and sealed. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnUvajMgZI/AAAAAAAAA5g/yL0ZAsfzW8M/s1600/veneer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnUvajMgZI/AAAAAAAAA5g/yL0ZAsfzW8M/s320/veneer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Assorted veneer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnUvfCJz9I/AAAAAAAAA5k/sW7LtJpfKfs/s1600/box-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnUvfCJz9I/AAAAAAAAA5k/sW7LtJpfKfs/s320/box-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veneer application. Glue. Dry. Cut excess on edges. Sand corners.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnUvpTE5HI/AAAAAAAAA5o/70vHhtiINlk/s1600/box-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnUvpTE5HI/AAAAAAAAA5o/70vHhtiINlk/s320/box-6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Box completed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Well, I'm very happy with result. Stained and lacquered wooden box looks more impressive than boring plastic enclosure. For visual enchantment some shiny brass details can be added. I definitely will use this technique again. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnUvmbTzNI/AAAAAAAAA5s/0_o-NNbbQd4/s1600/front-window.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnUvmbTzNI/AAAAAAAAA5s/0_o-NNbbQd4/s320/front-window.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty transparent, eh?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Controller and LED matrix are bolted together and whole assembly's attached to front panel with hot glue. <br />
<br />
Two tactile switches are installed on a small PCB. Two pieces of wooden 1/4" dowel are used to transmit force to button's top. Button assembly and power jack are mounted on a back panel. As final touch I've installed self adhesive rubber feet onto bottom panel. <br />
<span id="goog_473119631"></span><span id="goog_473119632"></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnU1o5_TCI/AAAAAAAAA5w/G4SMiUw948M/s1600/controller-assembly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnU1o5_TCI/AAAAAAAAA5w/G4SMiUw948M/s320/controller-assembly.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Controller and LED matrix ready for installation.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnU15OBT3I/AAAAAAAAA50/s79dU68mM3U/s1600/buttons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TQnU15OBT3I/AAAAAAAAA50/s79dU68mM3U/s320/buttons.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Button assembly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>After assembling has finished let's turn it ON and play game "What's time now ?".<br />
Sadly, still pictures cannot show beauty of clock performance. In real life it looks much better. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TRRralJFiPI/AAAAAAAAA7o/GvBuIDh7Bkw/s1600/wooden-LED-clock-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TRRralJFiPI/AAAAAAAAA7o/GvBuIDh7Bkw/s320/wooden-LED-clock-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">14:40</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TRRra3jOU3I/AAAAAAAAA7w/FM2qOtAA-I4/s1600/wooden-LED-clock-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TRRra3jOU3I/AAAAAAAAA7w/FM2qOtAA-I4/s320/wooden-LED-clock-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">16:05</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TRRra0bd9SI/AAAAAAAAA70/68p_xEbVUh8/s1600/wooden-LED-clock-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TRRra0bd9SI/AAAAAAAAA70/68p_xEbVUh8/s320/wooden-LED-clock-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">17:35</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TRRrbF5FPoI/AAAAAAAAA74/_OVO_sLDMes/s1600/wooden-LED-clock-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TRRrbF5FPoI/AAAAAAAAA74/_OVO_sLDMes/s320/wooden-LED-clock-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's still 17:35. LED pattern changes every second. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TRRralxZ-BI/AAAAAAAAA7s/UprScJIJNiU/s1600/wooden-LED-clock-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TRRralxZ-BI/AAAAAAAAA7s/UprScJIJNiU/s320/wooden-LED-clock-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">***</div><br />
Short video about wood clock performance.<br />
See what it looks like in real life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/ngeT8Xkw-PU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<br />
Need more inspiration?<br />
Here's links to wood LED clocks made by other clock enthusiasts. Very impressive projects.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Solid-Wood-Digital-Clock/">http://www.instructables.com/id/Solid-Wood-Digital-Clock/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.norwegiancreations.com/?p=588">http://www.norwegiancreations.com/?p=588</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/12/wood-block-led-clock-part-1.html">(part 1) <---</a> Wood block LED clock</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-47149683981764434282010-12-15T04:25:00.007-05:002011-04-05T04:01:35.082-04:00Wood block LED clock (part 1)<b>Clock controller and LED matrix.</b><br />
<br />
For this project I've picked up few obsolete chips that have been sitting in a drawer for a long time waiting for occasion.<br />
<br />
Clock's brain is based on PIC16LF876A microcontroller running at 10MHz.<br />
Basically, only function of microcontroller is to monitor two buttons and occasionally read data from real time clock and display time and date. <br />
<br />
Yes, it's too powerful chip for such a simple application but I prefer to have spare I/O pins and memory room in case I need to upgrade design or add some extra features.<br />
<br />
Clock is showing current time by turning ON and OFF predefined number of LEDs of the same color. LED pattern is chosen randomly and microcontroller generates new LED pattern every second. <br />
If button 1 is pressed clock shows current day and month in the same manner for a 30 seconds then switches back to time showing mode. Button 2 is used to activate time or date setting mode.<br />
<br />
Real time clock is NJU6355 chip with 4-line serial interface and operating voltage 2 - 5V.<br />
RTC is bundled with 32768 Hz watch crystal and 3V lithium coin cell battery CR 2032 as a backup power source. Battery is connected in series with diode and supplies 3V to RTC only when main power 5V is absent. <br />
<br />
Controller assembled on a single sided PCB, made using <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2009/12/simple-technique-to-make-pcb-using.html">heat toner transfer method</a>, as usual;-) <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtZzAJLODI/AAAAAAAAA2M/AXhm8Nh3jXs/s1600/clock-controller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtZzAJLODI/AAAAAAAAA2M/AXhm8Nh3jXs/s320/clock-controller.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clock controller. PIC16FL876A. RTC NJU6355. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtZzEBpa3I/AAAAAAAAA2Q/vi9XELZm8FY/s1600/clock-controller-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtZzEBpa3I/AAAAAAAAA2Q/vi9XELZm8FY/s320/clock-controller-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home-made PCB. Note load resistor for open drain input. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Bright LEDs of 4 different colors (amber, green, red and blue) are organized into 3 x 9 matrix. <br />
3 columns are controlled by dedicated 2N7000 low power MOSFETs. <br />
Maximum DC current for this type of MOSFET is 200 mA and all 9 LEDs in a column can be ON simultaneously.<br />
9 rows are connected directly to microcontroller's digital outputs. <br />
Since it's only prototype, I've build ghetto LED matrix on a perforated board. All wiring is done by 24 gauge stranded wire.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtZzM6XzgI/AAAAAAAAA2U/eifO_BvMsSI/s1600/LED-matrix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtZzM6XzgI/AAAAAAAAA2U/eifO_BvMsSI/s320/LED-matrix.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LED matrix</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtZzSuKrDI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/3AiQA66WK20/s1600/LED-matrix-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtZzSuKrDI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/3AiQA66WK20/s320/LED-matrix-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LED matrix wiring. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Clock's button are normally open tactile switches. <br />
Buttons inputs are pulled up by 10K resistors and microcontroller reads logic "1" (high level) when button's released and logic "0" when button's pressed.<br />
<br />
LM7805 voltage regulator supplies 5V for whole unit. Since controller consumes low current and all LEDs are working in pulse mode, regulator stays cool and doesn't need any radiator. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TP9OS4th4tI/AAAAAAAAA4M/2OqBbS_8qtM/s1600/LED-clock.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span id="goog_299079921"></span><span id="goog_299079922"></span></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtcOA71x_I/AAAAAAAAA3g/lukMGnGUoFM/s1600/clock-controller-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtcOA71x_I/AAAAAAAAA3g/lukMGnGUoFM/s320/clock-controller-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clock controller wiring.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtZzYSXLzI/AAAAAAAAA2c/jMnXT9yM_mo/s1600/LED-matrix-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtZzYSXLzI/AAAAAAAAA2c/jMnXT9yM_mo/s320/LED-matrix-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Controller and LED matrix connected together. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TP9OS4th4tI/AAAAAAAAA4M/2OqBbS_8qtM/s1600/LED-clock.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TP9OS4th4tI/AAAAAAAAA4M/2OqBbS_8qtM/s320/LED-clock.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clock controller schematic.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TP9OTXQM44I/AAAAAAAAA4Q/CV1ldFxYQmo/s1600/LED-clock-ext.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TP9OTXQM44I/AAAAAAAAA4Q/CV1ldFxYQmo/s320/LED-clock-ext.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LEDs and buttons connection.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="http://www.4shared.com/file/78RdNFiZ/LED_clock_2009.html">Hardware schematics and PCB download link.</a><br />
<a href="http://www.4shared.com/file/FU1CdYoA/led_clock2.html">Software source code download link.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPtZzYSXLzI/AAAAAAAAA2c/jMnXT9yM_mo/s1600/LED-matrix-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/12/wood-block-led-clock-intro.html">(intro) <---</a> Wood block LED clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/12/wood-block-led-clock-part-2.html">---> (part 2)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-24420427708936069082010-12-02T04:21:00.003-05:002011-02-21T18:53:36.733-05:00Wood block LED clock (intro)<b>Wood block clock. I've seen it. I liked it. I've made my own. </b><br />
<br />
Yes, I like to work with wood and I like to experiment with microcontrollers and other electronic stuff so I've combined few popular ideas and recreated this exotic LED clock encapsulated in chunk of wood.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPS9lByGvyI/AAAAAAAAA1I/g6B15CoZkac/s1600/LED-clock-in-wood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPS9lByGvyI/AAAAAAAAA1I/g6B15CoZkac/s320/LED-clock-in-wood.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wooden block clock showing time 18:36.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Yes, there are no digits displayed. Instead lights of different color represent ones and tens of minutes and hours.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Actually project is very simple and requires some common materials and only few electronic chips and components that always can be found in junk box of any electronic DIY-maker: <br />
- microcontroller;<br />
- real time integrated clock;<br />
- low power MOSFET transistors;<br />
- bunch of super bright LEDs; <br />
- pieces of plywood or MDF;<br />
- few sheets of veneer;<br />
- and of course your imagination and desire to create, build, invent, or just have good time;-)<br />
<br />
Obviously clock case is not solid wood but laminated veneer MDF frame.<br />
Some sorts of thin veneer are transparent enough and bright LED will shine through wooden surface.<br />
Nicely finished wooden block is beautiful decoration itself but multicolored lights, glowing deep inside wood and constantly forming different "alien" symbols, make device more unusual and attractive. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Wood block LED clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/12/wood-block-led-clock-part-1.html">---> (part 1)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-80173878185510038582010-11-28T03:42:00.004-05:002011-01-21T04:42:41.460-05:00DIY hard drive clock (part 12)<b>Hard drive clock. Final part.</b><br />
<br />
Well, unit is pretty much completed. Hard drive platters are humming a little bit but I wouldn't consider it as significant flaw. Overall it's a very impressive gadget and it shows time as well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBerHdVvI/AAAAAAAAAzg/E2F4ZAQLFz0/s1600/hard-drive-clock-wow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBerHdVvI/AAAAAAAAAzg/E2F4ZAQLFz0/s320/hard-drive-clock-wow.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
As final visual touch I placed blue power LED indicator behind front panel grid. <br />
Front panel's custom label is made using <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2009/12/simple-technique-to-make-pcb-using.html">heat toner transfer technology</a>. It works the same way as for PCB fabrication. <br />
For protection aluminum panel is covered with matte acrylic lacquer. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBeWu1u0I/AAAAAAAAAzc/ERPaFhBUOCY/s1600/hard-drive-clock-final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBeWu1u0I/AAAAAAAAAzc/ERPaFhBUOCY/s320/hard-drive-clock-final.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final programming. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBd2dhy1I/AAAAAAAAAzQ/tIS6SqSfa5c/s1600/hard-drive-clock-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBd2dhy1I/AAAAAAAAAzQ/tIS6SqSfa5c/s320/hard-drive-clock-1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard drive clock completed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBeJHOiwI/AAAAAAAAAzU/egJRR6z0fHE/s1600/hard-drive-clock-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBeJHOiwI/AAAAAAAAAzU/egJRR6z0fHE/s320/hard-drive-clock-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard drive clock. Front panel with custom labels.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBeUROVGI/AAAAAAAAAzY/ynpiClug9MU/s1600/hard-drive-clock-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBeUROVGI/AAAAAAAAAzY/ynpiClug9MU/s320/hard-drive-clock-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clock and calendar.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBp7ptuOI/AAAAAAAAAzk/RsAqYREE2lo/s1600/LED-button-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBp7ptuOI/AAAAAAAAAzk/RsAqYREE2lo/s320/LED-button-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green illuminated button.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBp22f5FI/AAAAAAAAAzo/dPTaxyt-CjA/s1600/LED-button-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPIBp22f5FI/AAAAAAAAAzo/dPTaxyt-CjA/s320/LED-button-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red illuminated button.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">***</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hxZvJnm3bWE?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hxZvJnm3bWE?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">***</div><br />
Web links to related projects:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://alan-parekh.com/projects/hard-drive-clock/">Alan Parekh's first original concept</a> <br />
<br />
<a href="http://instruct1.cit.cornell.edu/courses/ee476/FinalProjects/s2006/ja94/Amsel%20-%20Klitinek%20Final%20Project/index.htm">Final student's project from Cornell University</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ian.org/HD-Clock/">Jan Smith's project </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.elektroda.pl/rtvforum/viewtopic.php?p=6984995">Project from polish electronics forum (article requires translation) </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.dm.ufscar.br/profs/waldeck/pic/hdd-clock/">Waldeck Schützer's project (article requires translation) </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://sensi.org/%7Esvo/strobeshnik/">Hard drive clock from russian fellow. Very interesting approach. </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/11/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-11.html">(part 11)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-3726467290000181252010-11-28T01:13:00.002-05:002010-11-28T03:44:29.930-05:00DIY hard drive clock (part 11)<b>Hard drive clock cover. </b><br />
<br />
Old cover for hard drive case had to be modified to suit new purpose of reworked device.<br />
<br />
4" diameter clock window is manually cut in cover.<br />
Although cover is made from light and relatively soft alloy but it was too tough for manual nibbler so I had to drill series of 1/8" holes along circle then rip out round window and finally smooth edges with file. <br />
<br />
Whole cover repainted flat black and covered with transparent acrylic lacquer for additional protection. <br />
<br />
Illuminated clock dial is attached to cover with hot glue. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPHPVEcapaI/AAAAAAAAAxU/zqEOzgb5bHU/s1600/case-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPHPVEcapaI/AAAAAAAAAxU/zqEOzgb5bHU/s320/case-cover.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard drive clock modified cover. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPHPVDZyOtI/AAAAAAAAAxY/6cY2ekgECQw/s1600/case-cover-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPHPVDZyOtI/AAAAAAAAAxY/6cY2ekgECQw/s320/case-cover-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black gloss finish for high contrast. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPHPVXwoDkI/AAAAAAAAAxc/h4MG7eBp3FA/s1600/case-cover-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPHPVXwoDkI/AAAAAAAAAxc/h4MG7eBp3FA/s320/case-cover-3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clock dial attached to cover.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPHPVcXPFQI/AAAAAAAAAxg/6zk2CYsNbKM/s1600/case-cover-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPHPVcXPFQI/AAAAAAAAAxg/6zk2CYsNbKM/s320/case-cover-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cover with clock dial installed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPHPVtcBBYI/AAAAAAAAAxk/ZstRSX6S1Zs/s1600/hard-drive-clock-dial.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TPHPVtcBBYI/AAAAAAAAAxk/ZstRSX6S1Zs/s320/hard-drive-clock-dial.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard drive clock with illuminated dial.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/11/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-10.html">(part 10)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/11/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-12.html">---> (part 12)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-18748165100075938772010-11-25T04:11:00.007-05:002010-11-28T01:13:52.682-05:00DIY hard drive clock (part 10)<b>Illuminated clock dial.</b><br />
<br />
Main purpose of clock dial is to seal hole and keep dust away from sensitive mechanical parts.<br />
<br />
At first it was intended to be just a dust cover but, since whole device resembles a mechanical clock, I've added simplified hour marks to it. <br />
<br />
Hour marks are milled using drill press converted into manual mill by adding x-y table.<br />
Edge-lit technology applied to acrylic dial make it much more attractive (well, next model may include second edge-lit acrylic layer with engraved digits). <br />
<br />
Dial is illuminated by 4 high intensity blue 3mm LEDs embedded into its sides.<br />
Each LED is inserted into short slot and secured with hot glue.<br />
All four LEDs are wired in series with resistor and connected to 12V circuit.<br />
To achieve comfortable soft brightness, LEDs current is limited to 5mA by 470 Ohm resistor.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOYxWUmxOCI/AAAAAAAAAqI/bVvHPJsv0Pg/s1600/clock-dial-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOYxWUmxOCI/AAAAAAAAAqI/bVvHPJsv0Pg/s320/clock-dial-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clock dial after milling.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span id="goog_1046147359"></span><span id="goog_1046147360"></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOYxWucs62I/AAAAAAAAAqM/81Yz7VDuADU/s1600/clock-dial-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOYxWucs62I/AAAAAAAAAqM/81Yz7VDuADU/s320/clock-dial-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slot for 3 mm LED.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOYxWkNxxqI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/DpmDlCZyOSs/s1600/clock-dial-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOYxWkNxxqI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/DpmDlCZyOSs/s320/clock-dial-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LED wired and secured with hot glue. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOYxW6Mc3BI/AAAAAAAAAqU/ZwKltPLEopg/s1600/clock-dial-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOYxW6Mc3BI/AAAAAAAAAqU/ZwKltPLEopg/s320/clock-dial-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Illuminated dial.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/11/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-9.html">(part 9)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/11/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-11.html">---> (part 11)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-61565562675409243122010-11-19T03:57:00.002-05:002010-11-25T04:14:29.816-05:00DIY hard drive clock (part 9)<b>Front panel assembly.</b><br />
<br />
Front panel consist of two pieces: plastic support panel and aluminum faceplate separated by wooden spacers.<br />
<br />
Support panel is cut from plastic cover of old printer. Panel holds controller board and illuminated control buttons board.<br />
<br />
Faceplate is made from scrap aluminum and fastened to support panel with machine screws. <br />
<br />
To keep various power cables and control wires in order improvised wire holders made from 1/4" PVC drain tubing are used. Holders are attached to panel and chassis with hot glue. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOTlac_yOQI/AAAAAAAAApc/PztYNChwiSg/s1600/face-panel-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOTlac_yOQI/AAAAAAAAApc/PztYNChwiSg/s320/face-panel-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front view. LCD and control buttons. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOTlajTbusI/AAAAAAAAApg/UvwC5jfefn8/s1600/face-panel-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOTlajTbusI/AAAAAAAAApg/UvwC5jfefn8/s320/face-panel-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back view. Controller. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOTlalpndkI/AAAAAAAAApk/KRlqIBDbhD8/s1600/face-panel-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOTlalpndkI/AAAAAAAAApk/KRlqIBDbhD8/s320/face-panel-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wiring completed. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOTla0Cu2fI/AAAAAAAAApo/GQxpmrevUkU/s1600/face-panel-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOTla0Cu2fI/AAAAAAAAApo/GQxpmrevUkU/s320/face-panel-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aluminum faceplate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOTla8CzIuI/AAAAAAAAAps/AsYft4oBnf4/s1600/custom-wire-holder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TOTla8CzIuI/AAAAAAAAAps/AsYft4oBnf4/s320/custom-wire-holder.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custom wire holder.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/11/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-8.html">(part 8)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/11/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-10.html">---> (part 10)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-30378670541239642092010-11-18T04:21:00.005-05:002010-11-28T01:16:41.662-05:00DIY hard drive clock (part 8)<b>Visual enhancement.</b><br />
<br />
This step may be considered as optional but it increases contrast of image being generated and improves overall visual appearance. <br />
<br />
Light emitting part of hard drive is completely shielded by custom made cover.<br />
Ambient reflected light and unwanted color glare are blocked by cover so light that can be seen by observer is coming only through slot cut in platter.<br />
<br />
Cover for hard drive is made from plastic case of old printer, combined with part of food container .<br />
Parts of cover are hotglued together and painted flat black. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TNOiCxvxF8I/AAAAAAAAAnw/eUJAj8nfEKY/s1600/light-screen-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TNOiCxvxF8I/AAAAAAAAAnw/eUJAj8nfEKY/s320/light-screen-1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custom made hard drive cover.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TNOiDJp1prI/AAAAAAAAAn0/DSaKtdtrkO4/s1600/light-screen-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TNOiDJp1prI/AAAAAAAAAn0/DSaKtdtrkO4/s320/light-screen-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parts from scrap plastic.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TNOiDH-_8FI/AAAAAAAAAn4/Gvx6n3BjtZc/s1600/light-screen-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TNOiDH-_8FI/AAAAAAAAAn4/Gvx6n3BjtZc/s320/light-screen-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parts attached together with hot glue.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TNOiDBJSUII/AAAAAAAAAn8/O8pliJAE4w0/s1600/light-screen-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TNOiDBJSUII/AAAAAAAAAn8/O8pliJAE4w0/s320/light-screen-4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Hard drive cover painted and installed .</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TNOiDG_0T4I/AAAAAAAAAoA/1KDtZat0_us/s1600/light-screen-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TNOiDG_0T4I/AAAAAAAAAoA/1KDtZat0_us/s320/light-screen-5.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unwanted light glare now is blocked. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/11/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-7.html">(part 7)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/11/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-9.html">---> (part 9)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-10284450349979395162010-11-13T04:01:00.005-05:002010-11-19T03:53:45.008-05:00DIY hard drive clock (part 7)<b>Assembling unit</b><br />
<br />
For easy maintenance all electrical interconnections between assemblies are implemented with flexible cables and connectors.<br />
To center hard drive on a chassis I had to reposition existing power supply board. <br />
<br />
To lover noise and vibration to minimal level I reused rubber shock absorbers from old computer. Shock absorbers are mounted on custom brackets and fastened to hard drive frame.<br />
<br />
Four machine screws are installed onto chassis to serve as mounting posts for shock absorbers. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpXMMb6yI/AAAAAAAAAmA/dFQbyflyYhE/s1600/hard-drive-assembled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpXMMb6yI/AAAAAAAAAmA/dFQbyflyYhE/s320/hard-drive-assembled.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard drive fitted with new stuff.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpXKdda5I/AAAAAAAAAl8/lRNNekgjwVk/s1600/clock-modules-connected.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpXKdda5I/AAAAAAAAAl8/lRNNekgjwVk/s320/clock-modules-connected.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All functional parts connected. Power up test. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpXfpM9II/AAAAAAAAAmI/wmZ6hEgKREI/s1600/mounting-bolts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpXfpM9II/AAAAAAAAAmI/wmZ6hEgKREI/s320/mounting-bolts.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modified chassis.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpXaQOpWI/AAAAAAAAAmM/6Intd66RQJ8/s1600/shock-absorber-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpXaQOpWI/AAAAAAAAAmM/6Intd66RQJ8/s320/shock-absorber-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rubber shock absorbers reused for hard drive clock project.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpal3Un3I/AAAAAAAAAmQ/1uEddJeD_us/s1600/shock-absorber-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpal3Un3I/AAAAAAAAAmQ/1uEddJeD_us/s320/shock-absorber-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shock absorber mounted onto chassis.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpXFzYP1I/AAAAAAAAAmE/ZXYq3m2GXJE/s1600/modules-mounted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLVpXFzYP1I/AAAAAAAAAmE/ZXYq3m2GXJE/s320/modules-mounted.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All parts of unit are interconnected. Function test. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TN5PYqvVndI/AAAAAAAAAos/lvGK7lw0GxY/s1600/test-pattern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TN5PYqvVndI/AAAAAAAAAos/lvGK7lw0GxY/s320/test-pattern.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, it's working!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-6.html">(part 6)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/11/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-8.html">---> (part 8)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-15285346103259452622010-10-25T03:56:00.009-04:002010-11-19T15:02:07.792-05:00DIY hard drive clock (part 6)<b>Illuminated push buttons.</b><br />
<br />
Here's another simple micro DIY tutorial: LED and tactile switches are combined into illuminated push button.<br />
<br />
<br />
Buttons are mounted on a small home-made PCB.<br />
Two buttons electrically connected in parallel and resemble momentary switch. <br />
LED is sitting on top of buttons and transmits force to switches when pressed.<br />
Spring shaped leads are soldered to the board.<br />
LED motion is relatively short so it shouldn't affect integrity of electrical connection. <br />
<br />
Buttons and LEDs are connected to digital port of microcontroller and can be controlled independently.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLIotL_5D3I/AAAAAAAAAjc/PZSQA3t5OTo/s1600/LED-buttons-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLIotL_5D3I/AAAAAAAAAjc/PZSQA3t5OTo/s320/LED-buttons-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLIos9evvjI/AAAAAAAAAjY/G2ze2K0xGRQ/s1600/LED-buttons-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLIos9evvjI/AAAAAAAAAjY/G2ze2K0xGRQ/s320/LED-buttons-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLIosnOVMaI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/LTCBVvDGWbk/s1600/LED-buttons-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLIosnOVMaI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/LTCBVvDGWbk/s320/LED-buttons-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLIos8AcL7I/AAAAAAAAAjU/KCdxnya5Cec/s1600/LED-buttons-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLIos8AcL7I/AAAAAAAAAjU/KCdxnya5Cec/s320/LED-buttons-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLIotQg6E1I/AAAAAAAAAjg/QBRTZsJBiPg/s1600/pic_led_buttons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLIotQg6E1I/AAAAAAAAAjg/QBRTZsJBiPg/s320/pic_led_buttons.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-5_11.html">(part 5)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/11/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-7.html">---> (part 7)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-50675830417475250842010-10-11T03:19:00.008-04:002011-04-05T04:04:27.675-04:00DIY hard drive clock (part 5)<b>PIC18F2320 based controller for hard drive clock. </b><br />
<br />
Hard drive clock is powered by Microchip PIC18F2320 clocked at 40MHz.<br />
PIC18F2320 is a fast and versatile microcontroller with hardware I2C serial interface and plenty of I/O ports to handle communication with all external modules.<br />
<br />
Actually, any medium range microcontroller can be adapted for this project. I have quite a collection of various PIC microcontrollers and I've chosen chip with excess of memory and I/O ports to allow some modification in the future. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLKH6Rl2TNI/AAAAAAAAAlA/6ooRexLCo6o/s1600/clock-controller-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLKH6Rl2TNI/AAAAAAAAAlA/6ooRexLCo6o/s320/clock-controller-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PIC18F2320 based clock controller. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Controller is assembled on a double sided home-made PCB which was fabricated using proven <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2009/12/simple-technique-to-make-pcb-using.html">heat toner transfer method. </a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLKH6JkNTDI/AAAAAAAAAk4/fOEoJTFdj8Y/s1600/clock-controller-pcb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLKH6JkNTDI/AAAAAAAAAk4/fOEoJTFdj8Y/s320/clock-controller-pcb.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home-made double sided PCB for clock controller. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Compact sized board bundled with LCD, hosts PIC18F2320 microcontroller with clock crystals, LED switching MOSFETS and real time clock module. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLKH6SDRIoI/AAAAAAAAAk8/8VoqeXtkbDs/s1600/clock-controller-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLKH6SDRIoI/AAAAAAAAAk8/8VoqeXtkbDs/s320/clock-controller-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clock controller, LCD, RTC.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Upon powering-up microcontroller reads current time and date from external RTC and use this data to initialize internal clock. To stay synchronized with RTC module, microcontroller requests latest time data from external RTC and refreshes internal variables every hour.<br />
<br />
To multitask parallel operations microcontroller employs two independent internal timers.<br />
<br />
Short interval timer0 is dedicated for measuring time of full disk revolution.<br />
External interrupt function resets Timer0 upon signal from index sensor. Current time value is used to calculate precise moment for LEDs to switch ON and OFF. Because of that, clock displays correct position of clock hands regardless of disk RPM. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLKH6v2HdmI/AAAAAAAAAlI/vcva48-LfOg/s1600/clock-controller-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLKH6v2HdmI/AAAAAAAAAlI/vcva48-LfOg/s320/clock-controller-4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clock controller assembled.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Long interval timer1 is connected to external 32768 Hz watch crystal and configured as real time clock with period 0.25sec. Timers interrupt sets control flags to inquire start service routines in main program loop.<br />
<br />
Main program loop is used to check and reset control flags, scan keyboard, refresh LCD, recalculate latest position of clock hands and toggle RGB LEDs accordingly. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLKH6TelCEI/AAAAAAAAAlE/bkdk-60cHEE/s1600/clock-controller-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLKH6TelCEI/AAAAAAAAAlE/bkdk-60cHEE/s320/clock-controller-3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LCD with blue backlight.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Controller is connected with external modules via 8 connectors and whole unit can be easily taken apart and reassembled back.<br />
<br />
Keyboard assembly contains two illuminated buttons which are used to set correct time, date and select clock mode. <br />
Current time, date and service information are displayed on LCD.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9vgwMQYBeUI/TWmdFjITULI/AAAAAAAABIc/ZxM667ckwLk/s1600/hard-drive-clock.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9vgwMQYBeUI/TWmdFjITULI/AAAAAAAABIc/ZxM667ckwLk/s320/hard-drive-clock.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Free for noncommercial use technical notes include:<br />
- schematics;<br />
- PCB in PDF format;<br />
- BOM;<br />
- HEX file for PIC18F2320;<br />
- C source code for CCS compiler.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.4shared.com/file/ZvSod2dB/HD_clock.html">Hardware documentation available for download. </a><br />
<a href="http://www.4shared.com/file/XQHS1xR3/HD_clock_ret_1.html">Firmware documentation available for download. </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2009/12/simple-technique-to-make-pcb-using.html"></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-4.html">(part 4)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-6.html">---> (part 6)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-14452409157106129422010-10-10T22:25:00.010-04:002011-04-05T04:04:57.286-04:00DIY hard drive clock (part 4)<b>Real time clock DS1307.</b><br />
<br />
Excellent compact SMT design intended for embedded applications, made by <a href="http://www.sparkfun.com/commerce/product_info.php?products_id=99">Sparkfun</a>.<br />
This tiny assembly contains I2C compatible RTC chip DS1307, clock crystal, back up lithium coin cell (CR1225 41mAh) battery and 5-pin connector.<br />
<br />
I2C interface allows easy integration into any microcontroller based design.<br />
<br />
Fresh battery should provide enough energy to support time keeping capability for very long time without external 5V power. According to Sparkfun, up to 9 years.<br />
Well, I cannot wait such a long term to prove it so I take it as is;-) <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLJr4ZH1vBI/AAAAAAAAAks/-deRsgUFqNA/s1600/RTC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLJr4ZH1vBI/AAAAAAAAAks/-deRsgUFqNA/s320/RTC.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Real time clock DS1307.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-3.html">(part 3)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-5_11.html">---> (part 5)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-72312832698854662602010-10-10T05:28:00.010-04:002010-10-13T04:37:24.244-04:00DIY hard drive clock (part 3)<b>Index sensor</b><br />
<br />
Purpose of index sensor is to detect beginning of disk revolution to synchronize image being generated.<br />
There are many kinds of remote sensors with identical logic output which are suitable for this task. The only difference between them is how sensors interact with indexing disk.<br />
- IR photo interrupters. Require cut slot or hole in disk. <br />
- IR photoreflective sensors. Require high contrast mark (black line on a white background) placed on a disc surface.<br />
- Hall effect sensor or reed switch. Require magnet attached to disk. <br />
<br />
I've searched through my parts cabinet and found among my stock few SS49E analog Hall sensors.<br />
Output of SS49 is proportional to the strength of the magnetic field.<br />
Normally output is 2.5V but it rise up to 5V or drop to 0V when sensor is facing corresponding pole of a magnet.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Output of Hall sensor is connected to the gate of 2N7000 MOSFET switch. When magnet travels within close proximity of hall sensor, MOSFET connects load resistor to ground therefore generating negative pulse which is detected by external interrupt circuit of microcontroller. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLEBbpoCy_I/AAAAAAAAAic/2P347rLLTEE/s1600/pic_hall_sensor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLEBbpoCy_I/AAAAAAAAAic/2P347rLLTEE/s320/pic_hall_sensor.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hall effect sensor connection.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Hall sensor, 2N7000 MOSFET and load resistor are assembled on a tiny PCB which is mounted in level with bottom surface of indexing platter.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLEBbo8_w2I/AAAAAAAAAig/ZMD2J7OboiI/s1600/hall-sensor-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLEBbo8_w2I/AAAAAAAAAig/ZMD2J7OboiI/s320/hall-sensor-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hall effect sensor, MOSFET and load resistor mounted on PCB.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Tiny neodymium magnet for index Hall sensor has came from old hard drive too.<br />
Originally it was used to hold magnetic heads actuator at parking position. <br />
Magnet is superglued to bottom surface of indexing platter. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLEBb80C_MI/AAAAAAAAAio/cofAphR-u4g/s1600/hall-sensor-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLEBb80C_MI/AAAAAAAAAio/cofAphR-u4g/s320/hall-sensor-3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hall sensor is facing magnet. Sensing distance 2-3 mm. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLEBb0mR17I/AAAAAAAAAik/JSiQOEH419U/s1600/hall-sensor-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TLEBb0mR17I/AAAAAAAAAik/JSiQOEH419U/s320/hall-sensor-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hall sensor PCB embedded into system.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-2.html">(part 2)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-4.html">---> (part 4)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-24436051496599128092010-10-08T04:48:00.007-04:002013-03-24T23:25:34.053-04:00DIY hard drive clock (part 2)<b>RGB LED light installation.</b><br />
<br />
Any type of LED light can be employed for this clock design but since my discovery of affordable <a href="http://dx.com/p/14965?Utm_rid=32746761&Utm_source=affiliate">flexible RGB LED strip</a> I use it in most of my LED based projects. <br />
LED strip has self-adhesive backing and consists of easily separated sections and intended for 12V operation. <br />
Every section contains 3 RGB LEDs with common anode, SMT current limiting resistors and soldering pads on each end.<br />
<br />
Electrically all sections in the strip are connected in parallel so whole LED strip can be powered by connecting supply cable to any section. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKw1aq4LeWI/AAAAAAAAAg8/GZTCTsHjhoI/s1600/LED-strip-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKw1aq4LeWI/AAAAAAAAAg8/GZTCTsHjhoI/s320/LED-strip-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flexible RGB LED strip and more rigid plastic base. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
LED strip is too soft and flexible so I've made base ring from scrap plastic and stuck strip to the ring for reinforcement.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKw1aoEl3-I/AAAAAAAAAhA/gDasZYmEgtU/s1600/LED-strip-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKw1aoEl3-I/AAAAAAAAAhA/gDasZYmEgtU/s320/LED-strip-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RGB LED ring completed. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Fortunately, 9 LEDs strip has the same length as circumference of the hard drive disk so LED ring fits perfectly inside casing. <br />
Ring is secured inside hard drive with hot glue.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKw1a6Hs-LI/AAAAAAAAAhE/U-REI_KD4x4/s1600/LED-strip-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKw1a6Hs-LI/AAAAAAAAAhE/U-REI_KD4x4/s320/LED-strip-3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LED ring fitted inside hard drive casing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Control cable for LED ring contains 4 wires:<br />
- supply voltage +12V;<br />
- RED;<br />
- GREEN;<br />
- BLUE.<br />
<br />
LEDs of selected color turn ON when corresponding line is connected to ground. <br />
<br />
Power consumption for 9 LEDs at 12V:<br />
RED - 43.75mA<br />
GREEN - 32.5mA<br />
BLUE - 34.8mA<br />
<br />
All LEDs of one color are controlled by dedicated 2N7000 MOSFET switch (max current 200 mA).<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKw1a3W4lxI/AAAAAAAAAhI/y0AqpU_c7lw/s1600/pic_RGB_leds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKw1a3W4lxI/AAAAAAAAAhI/y0AqpU_c7lw/s320/pic_RGB_leds.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RGB LED strip. Control cable connection.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-1.html">(part 1)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-3.html">---> (part 3)</a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-66930844996995996622010-10-05T04:39:00.011-04:002010-10-10T02:47:37.697-04:00DIY hard drive clock (part 1)<b>Hard drive dissected.</b><br />
<br />
Now it's time to take hard drive apart and see what we can reuse. <br />
My victim is SCSI Fujitsu brand with spindle speed 4400 RPM. Full disk revolution takes 13.64 mSec.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKOE9L-LiNI/AAAAAAAAAbM/6l67g_Qvo_g/s1600/hard-drive-open.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKOE9L-LiNI/AAAAAAAAAbM/6l67g_Qvo_g/s320/hard-drive-open.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard drive. Open and eager to get new guts. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Some parts definitely can be reclaimed for other projects.<br />
Voice coil actuator; can be used as laser beam shutter or as simple galvo. <br />
Couple very strong neodymium magnets; those may be used in solar pendulum toy.<br />
Hard drive platter itself is highly reflective and can be used as front surface mirrors for <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/08/diy-laser-spirograph-intro.html">laser spirograph project</a>.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
Data storage bank consists of five platters but I'm going to use only two of them: upper platter with cut slot for image producing and lover platter with attached magnet for index mark generation.<br />
After removal of middle platters I installed proper spacer to maintain gap between top and bottom platters about 0.5''and that is enough to accommodate<a href="http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.14965%7Er.32746761"> flexible RGB LED strip</a>. <br />
<br />
<br />
Slot in top platter is cut with almighty Dremel universal tool.<br />
Wideness of slot defines minimal wideness of clock hand that can be displayed.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKOE9o3avQI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/7OyGWYZa0D8/s1600/hard-drive-plates-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKOE9o3avQI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/7OyGWYZa0D8/s320/hard-drive-plates-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Platters. Cut, sanded and ready for painting. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>Platters should be sanded and cleaned before painting. <br />
To achieve best contrast of image top platter is painted flat black.<br />
Inner surfaces of platters are painted mate white for better light reflection and color diffusion. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKQ7EcjyDlI/AAAAAAAAAcw/f_3J9tj4Qy4/s1600/hard-drive-plates-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKQ7EcjyDlI/AAAAAAAAAcw/f_3J9tj4Qy4/s320/hard-drive-plates-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painted platters.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/09/diy-hard-drive-clock-intro.html">(intro)<---</a> DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-2.html">---> (part 2)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4507572919253158275.post-7008802032069346042010-09-29T14:13:00.004-04:002010-10-08T04:54:08.158-04:00DIY hard drive clock (intro)<b>Hard drive clock. New life for old junk.</b><br />
<br />
Technical idea is pretty old but making things is fun and hard drive clock itself is very cool and entertaining device.<br />
It's quite easy to build one and I'm sure that most DIY-makers have some unwanted PC hardware that can be easily put into service again.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TJ60D7mxTPI/AAAAAAAAAaM/K7GhsGq-pZw/s1600/hard-drive-clock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TJ60D7mxTPI/AAAAAAAAAaM/K7GhsGq-pZw/s320/hard-drive-clock.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Obsolete hard drives. Are they good for something?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Beside hard drive itself, for this project we need microcontroller, real time clock, photo interrupter or Hall effect sensor and bunch of RGB LEDs. All this stuff is widely available. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
I've dug trough my personal pile of obsolete hardware and fished out excellent external SCSI hard drive.<br />
It contains lots of useful parts that can be reused for this project:<br />
- hard drive;<br />
- solid metal case with rubber feet;<br />
- LED power indicator at front panel;<br />
- power plug and switch at the back;<br />
- switch mode power supply +5V, +!2V;<br />
- 12V fan.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKBhXctQ9cI/AAAAAAAAAag/KBq9T7lJbU0/s1600/external-hard-drive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SvO97HE_fik/TKBhXctQ9cI/AAAAAAAAAag/KBq9T7lJbU0/s320/external-hard-drive.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Useless old external hard drive? Nope, it's a box full of treasures.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Hard drive have to be vandalized because we are going to reuse only spindle motor with two disks and controller board. <br />
From my experience, some hard drives shut down spindle motor if there's no signal from magnetic heads.<br />
For that case there are few possible solutions:<br />
- tweaking disk controller by rerouting corresponding signals (if data sheet is available);<br />
- using custom build controller for brushless motor;<br />
- getting another hard drive. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">DIY hard drive clock <a href="http://www.apdigitallight.com/2010/10/diy-hard-drive-clock-part-1.html">---> (part 1)</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2