Posted October 2, 2009 by Chris

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!

Posted September 29, 2009 by Chris

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!

Posted September 25, 2009 by Chris

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.

Posted September 23, 2009 by Chris

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.

Posted September 20, 2009 by Chris

Anyone who deals with embedded systems is bound to run into or frequently use Linux, so being able to cross-develop on Linux can be very handy. These few articles give you some insight into how to get started programming with the PIC & Linux environment.

Posted May 4, 2009 by Chris

This is a very simple guide for the Arudino microcontroller. You will learn how/where to get an Arudino & how to get it up and running on a simple breadboard. If you’re looking to get started using this uC take a look!

Posted February 8, 2009 by Chris

We’ve seen quite a few DIY Oscilloscopes and here one more! This one is rather unique in that it as minimal as possible using a 12xxxx series PIC and outputting to a standard TV.

Posted January 18, 2009 by Chris

The keyboard has been a standard input device for several decades now so understanding how it works is rather important. This project goes through the process of creating the software for an 8051 microcontroller that can understand keyboard input. Software & Hardware schematics provided!

Posted January 16, 2009 by Chris

There have been other at home PCB projects posted here, but this one really tells it like it is, easy! All on one page with necessary parts listed out (just like my write-ups) and then the simple procedure for making a PCB step-by-step, done in an hour!

Posted January 14, 2009 by Chris

This project is a great start for anyone interesting in the world of power electronics. There is nothing too special about the circuit except that it does what it is suppose to and is completely analog. The hardware circuit diagram is in the project write-up along with all details necessary to build this one.