Getting physical projects to talk to the Internet can be tricky. Students making Networked Objects have always had tons of choices, but each with a significant downside: Embedded Ethernet modules like the XPort and Wiznet Shields cost about $40 and tether your project to a thick cable. Embedded WiFi modules like the WiPort and MatchPort cost $70 – $120 and require …
I’m working with a group of smart folks on a new energy-monitoring startup to put mesh networked devices into about 100 homes on Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard. GroundedPower’s new Smart Energy Monitoring pilot project will begin in April. I believe we’re finally seeing the first wave of embedded communicative computing that Mark Weiser predicted back in 1991 and I’m relieved that rather than …
Whoa, is this cat from Siegfried & Roy or Cheech & Chong? I guess their point is, why roll your own connectors when you can get ’em from the world’s favorite animal? Here’s the results of my latest Samtec tiger hunt: * * use caution when you’re hunting tigers as they may have their own agenda.
The 4 Projects in 4 Days event is now underway at ITP with about 30 students and faculty participating. Due to ceiling replacement over break, we’ve taken over the Tisch lower level lobby area with surprisingly comfortable results. Coffee is hot, bagel are sliced, tunes are cranked and people are drawing, soldering, programming and sewing away. The 4-in-4 blog will get …
I’m keeping a list and you should check it twice–if your XBees aren’t working that is. Common XBee Mistakes is compiled from tons of troubleshooting sessions. It’s a work in progress so suggestions and additions are warmly welcomed. Read and share.
The ITP community will once again embark on a creative project marathon. This time it will be four projects in four days at the end of Winter Break. Steven, Caroline and I holding an open “drive-by” meeting tonight (Dec. 11) to get the ball rolling. Students, faculty and maybe even some alumni will create a finished creative project every day for …
Botanicalls is now available from Make Magazine’s online store. We’re also one of InfoWorld’s top 10 gadget gifts, and they even explain “Why you must have it“. Gosh.
More Samtec tigers, unearthed with the help of the venerable wayback machine. Seriously, who does these?
The LilyPad XBee a sew-in wearable radio is now available from SparkFun Electronics! It can be paired with LilyPad wearable sensors, custom built sensors and a variety of output devices to create a complete wireless wearable system. The board is $14.95 (XBee sold separately). Wow, from 7-in-7 exercise to commercially produced item in five months. I’m still working on nailing down …
We’re in the ThinkGeek printed catalog, page 15 (PDF). More retail coming soon! In the meantime treat yourself to a Kits and titanium sporks.
