All posts in reverse chronological order
last modified: October 19, 2025
Posted on 2017-03-03— How and Why
In part three I assemble and test the prototype PCB, set ATtiny13A fuses, and refine user interaction and firmware plans. I cover LED display choices, power measurements and a modular firmware approach. If you’re building a low-cost plant sensor, read the full post for practical steps and diagrams.
Posted on 2017-02-25— Projects
I built a compact ATtiny programming adapter to pre-program ATtiny13A chips before soldering, with a 50mil JTAG header, USB power, LED, and jumper options for other packages. I share EAGLE files, PCB ordering info and usage notes — read the post for photos, GitHub links and details.
Posted on 2017-02-23— Projects
I struggled to measure microamp currents for my plant watering sensor until I tried the µCurrent Gold. In this post I show oscilloscope traces, energy estimates with and without LED flashes, and explain how the µCurrent converts current to voltage. Read on for measurements and upcoming PCB prototype details.
Posted on 2017-02-16— Fun, Projects
I tested 13 SMD LEDs for my plant-watering sensor project, soldering them to a small board and driving them from an Arduino Zero Pro to compare brightness and flash styles. I share photos, part numbers and a short demo video — read on if you’d like the full results and notes.
Posted on 2017-02-14— How and Why
I take you through part two of my cheap plant-watering sensor project, testing a prototype: power draw, LED impact, oscillator and MCU startup timing, voltage-divider checks, firmware inputs, and PCB preparation. If you want to see the detailed measurements and next steps, I invite you to read the full post.
Posted on 2017-02-12— Projects
I finally put the fan controller into a cheap plastic case, drilled holes, mounted the Arduino with spacers, and aligned the display using double-sided tape. I cut the panel with a Dremel and it fit better than I expected — read on for photos and simple tips.
Posted on 2017-02-08— How and Why
I walked through designing a cheap capacitive plant watering sensor, from goals and measurement options to component selection and early prototypes. I explain why I chose a CR2032‑powered op‑amp oscillator, ATtiny MCU and low‑power timer. If you’re curious, read the full post for details and test results.
Posted on 2017-01-20— Recommendations
I often need SMD-to-DIP adapters for quick breadboard experiments but balk at $6–$9 per board. I found Adafruit sells affordable multi-packs of SMD adapter boards in various package sizes that suit prototyping needs. Read on to see which sets I recommend and why they work for me.
Posted on 2017-01-13— Common
I finished a small series of the PissOff project and noted practical lessons. I’ll use a stencil and solder paste next time, tried a larger speaker for better sound, and solved SD-card contact and flux-trimmer issues. Please read the full post for details and tips.
Posted on 2016-11-14— Projects
I've published a guide for the Five Light Spheres project — a quiet, artful winter decoration built with NeoPixels that blends colors across five spheres. I walk through materials, assembly, and code so you can recreate it at home. Read the full project page for details and photos.
Posted on 2016-10-24— Projects
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.
Posted on 2016-10-09— Projects
I've just finished Part 2 of the Outmoded Sequencer project, sharing the journey from prototype to final device. I explain the custom PCB work, lessons learned (including unreliable steel-ball matrix switches), and practical recommendations. If you're curious, please read the full post for build tips and cautions.
Posted on 2016-10-02— Common
I made a short video showing how I soldered Boldport's Touchy, an SMD board with a tricky chip. I admit I had a loose soldering tip early on and share what I learned. If you're interested, please watch the full video and check the board photos in the post.
Posted on 2016-09-24— Learn
I walk you through how I get camera-ready solder work: choosing the right iron and pliers, selecting solder and flux, careful prep, cutting and reheating for shiny domes, plus cleaning for macro photos. If you want neater prototypes or better product shots, read the full step-by-step guide.
Posted on 2016-09-21— Common
I tried soldering the Boldport Tap again, adapting Saar's Boldport technique to improve the finish. I carefully flush-cut wires, added solder until a small rounded dome formed, and filled component-side holes for a smooth transition. I used lead solder for shiny domes this time; read the full post for photos and details.
Posted on 2016-09-20— Common
I made a short video soldering the Boldport Project "Tap" and testing the PCBite PCB holder. I walk through the key steps, tool setup, and positioning tips so you can see how the holder performs. If you're curious, watch the full clip and follow along with the post.
Posted on 2016-09-18— Projects
I made a short live demo of the Outmoded Sequencer and added some audio effects at the end so you can hear its real sound. The video shows occasional connection quirks (a brief tap usually fixes them). I’d love your thoughts — watch the demo and stay tuned for part two.
Posted on 2016-09-17— Projects
I just finished the final Outmoded Sequencer and I'm pleased with how quickly tuning went using a new method. The device plays well, though the steel-ball contacts are only okay in spots. Read on for photos, my planned demo video, filter chain tests, and PCB giveaway details.
Posted on 2016-09-17— Projects
I recently assembled the final Outmoded Sequencer PCB and documented the soldering in a short video. I accidentally cut a bottom trace and repaired it with a jumper wire; the magnet matrix now secures the steel balls. I'll finish tone tuning and add four resistors — please watch the video and read on for details.
Posted on 2016-09-16— Common, Recommendations
I recently tried PCBite, a compact magnetic PCB holder with a mirrored base and adjustable posts. It makes soldering and inspection easier than my old helping-hands. I share close-up photos, usage notes, and where to buy a set—please read on if you’re curious about a simple, solid solution.