Plastic Cup Meltdown - Working with Epoxy

published: April 4, 2017 — last modified: October 23, 2025

Recent Posts

How to use the Scripts in the Cat Protector Project

I explain how to use the Cat Protector project's scripts to prepare an SD card with audio samples. I walk you through installing SOX and Perl, converting WAVs with ConvertAudio.pl, building a disk image, and safely writing it with dd on Linux or macOS. Read the full guide for commands and tips.

Weller WT Solder Station - Great Tool with Great Issues

I bought a Weller WT solder station and appreciate its lightweight pencil, fast heating, and thoughtful features. Still, two persistent problems — a tip retainer that unscrews and one that deforms — reduced usability. I describe the issues, my contact with Weller, and the eventual retainer fix; read the full post for details.

Fan Controller Project

I built a simple, tweakable fan controller after my server rack's components started overheating. I wanted quiet, reliable cooling I could adjust, so I designed a controller with PWM, PID tuning and an LCD. If you’re curious about the steps and ideas, read the full project page to learn more.

Convert Bitmap Fonts for LCD Displays with Style

I created a small macOS app that converts bitmap 8×8 fonts into byte arrays for text-only LCD displays. It accepts PNGs, validates the layout, and outputs source code you can save or copy. I also provide an example font, a Photoshop template, and the source—read on for download and usage.

How to Debug Time Critical Code using an Oscilloscope

I often use a simple oscilloscope trick to debug time-critical code: toggle an I/O line before and after critical sections and observe interrupt timing and execution width. It’s low-effort and revealing — read on for practical steps, examples, and tips to measure and reason about your timing issues.

Let’s Print a Cat/Pet Feeding Device (Part 4)

In part 4 I show how I insert the insets, assemble the enclosure panels, and print and assemble the lids and knobs. I also cover the front panel (fits Adafruit 20×4 or can be customized), LED covers, and recommended PETG print settings. Please read the full post for files and steps.

More Posts

Snowflake Power Converter

Posted on 2018-01-11— Projects

I built a simple USB-to-3.3V power converter for my snowflake decoration using a Traco TSR2-2433 and a laser-cut acrylic case with glow-in-the-dark engravings. I'll walk through the board, Fusion360/Eagle workflow, laser cutting and painting - read on if you want the files and build notes.

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Bit Manipulation using Templates

Posted on 2019-07-23— C++, Improve your Code, Learn

I explore replacing unsafe bit macros with lightweight C++ templates to make embedded bit operations safer and clearer. I show templates for one-bit extraction, set/clear helpers, and compiled firmware size for Arduino Uno. Read the full post to see examples, exercises, and practical benefits.

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The Importance of Wall Profiles in 3D Printing

Posted on 2023-02-12— 3D Printing, Learn

I'm not a 3D‑printing expert, but I show how simple wall profiles — correct XY/Z thickness, chamfers, and internal recesses — make printed boxes stronger and lighter. I share CAD steps, simulations, and common mistakes in plain terms. Read the full post for practical tips to improve your prints.

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Let's Print a Cat/Pet Feeding Device (Part 1)

Posted on 2021-01-02— 3D Printing, Projects

I'll walk you step-by-step through printing the mechanical parts of a fully functional, programmable cat/pet feeder. I share STL files, material and printer recommendations, and parts lists — all open-source on GitHub. If you have a 3D printer and want a challenging build, read the full post to get started.

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Let’s Print a Cat/Pet Feeding Device (Part 2)

Posted on 2021-01-05— 3D Printing, Projects

I walk you through assembling the gearbox for my 3D-printed cat feeder, step by step. I cover inserting insets, bearings, grub screws, and fitting the NEMA17 motor so the turntable runs smoothly. If you printed the parts from Part 1, follow along — read the full post for photos and testing tips.

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Filtered RPM Measurement Using PIO

Posted on 2021-04-17— Learn, Software

I walk you through using the RP2040's PIO to measure a PC fan's RPM with a small software filter to ignore short spikes and timeouts. I explain the PIO routine and a simple RpmInput wrapper in MicroPython—read on if you'd like the code and practical setup tips.

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