DIY Drones
From thermal imaging to prosthetic arms, from computers to Hum-Vees, military technology has regularly been adapted for civilian uses. This process has been going on since Roman times so it should be little surprise that the current crop of conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq have bequeathed their own technological advances. One could argue that drones or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) are the signature weapon of the past decade. Now these automated spying and weapon platforms have been adopted by a growing community of hobbyists and there are indications that this technology could soon find commercial application.
Video Double-Feature: Keyboard Sound Test & Keycap Swap!
For those of you who haven't run out and bought mechanical keyboards on the basis of TheGeekery's strong recommendations (you've read and watched them, right?), what manner of madness is still holding you back from such a ludicrously expensive purchase? Obviously, it must be that you're not sure just how loud keyboards like the Filco Majestouch really are. Well, it's a good thing that we've got your back. Check out this video comparing the sound of ultra-clicky Cherry Blues, ultra-mushy rubber domes, and laptop-esque scissor switches:
Read on for a simple (very simple) guide to swapping out basic keycaps on Cherry MX-style keyboards.
Project: iPhone Griptape Sticker
Over the holidays I dropped my phone into the snow. Again. After cursing some, thinking some, and then cursing some more, I decided to make a backing for my phone that was less slippery than the glass or even the metal one I have. I went through a few materials (thin adhesive-backed silicone, adhesive sandpaper, and some others) when I arrived at the perfect solution that takes care of everything all at once: skateboard grip tape!
Update: These are now for sale at RF Laserworks!
Edit: Well, it looks like I didn't do enough homework before I posted these for sale! A couple angry people have told me that there's already a similar product out there. This is great! Competition is always good; the end user always ends up winning :)
Tagging Your iTunes Songs
By adding a list of tags to the songs in your music library, you can easily create playlists for every desired theme, mood or purpose. I use this technique, Comments Smart Playlists, when I set up background playlists for my RPG games. Tagging each song's comment field can also be used for a wide variety of uses such as presentations, movie soundtracks or simple amusement.