True Random Number Generator

A True Random Number Generator seems to be a mathematical myth. However, we can still get pretty good random number generators. This AVR uses noise sampled from a transistor in the breakdown region which should be seemingly random. The schematic layout & source code is available in the project write-up!


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Z80 Text Scroller

While surfing around I ran across the Z80 Text Scroller by Tim Williams. Tim's website has a lot of his personal projects and they all have the DIY feel that I love. Take a look at the text scroller and his site, hardware schematics & software are there as well!


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PICAxe Serial Keyboard

The PICAxe serial keyboard was built to interface with a XENIX computer. It is fairly custom when compared to the way keyboards work now-a-days. However, I felt the project was noteworthy enough to take a look at. Hardware schematics & software are available for download.


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Mint Tin Bike Light

This project uses a 12xx series PIC to control the rear light to go on a bicycle. The main function is for when you are riding your bike at night so people can see you. Hardware schematics, PCB layout & software is all there. Avid bicyclists don't miss this one!


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AVR GPS Locator Project

This drop-dead simple project uses a SR87 GPS module and an AVR to understand the data. Then that is output onto a simple 16x2 character LCD. The hardware schematic and software is all there!


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AVR Project Index

Similar to the ARM Index I showed you a few days ago, this is a vast AVR project index. No matter if you're a beginner or a pro, you'll get ideas and sample source code from this resource. All AVR guru's should have this website bookmarked. Don't miss it!


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Vehicle Monitoring & Security System

This very detailed write-up goes through the process of designing a vehicle monitoring and security system. If you don't mind the lack of pictures and prefer schematics this article is for you. It's all brought together using a microchip PIC as its CPU. Some advanced components are used in this design. Check it out!


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ARM Project Index

Today while I was looking around the inter-webs, I ran across this psuedo-ARM project index. The index is mostly an assortment of example programs for the more advanced features like timers & interrupts. Definitely worth a look if you need more ARM example code to look at.


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Yet Another MP3 Player Project

Dubb'd the 'Ypod'. The YAMPP mp3 player is the pinnacle of many DIY mp3 player projects combined. It uses all off-the-shelf components, you just need a fab'd PCB board. The entire project is open-source, hardware and software so go take a look!


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Free Arduino Microcontroller Kits

If you've ever been interested in the Arduino microcontroller here's your chance to get a sweet little dev board for free. Uchobby has a giveaway program that is still in action. The board itself is probably not worth more than $20 but it is still worth at least a quick look.


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