Category: Electronics – Arduino

Learn anything from core electronics to Arduino projects

Categories
CAD - Design Electronics - Arduino Project

PCB Pumpkin

I designed a custom PCB in the shape of a pumpkin for Halloween. It uses LEDs and a micro-USB connector to power it.

Equipment/Software:

  • Eagle PCB
  • PCBWay
  • LEDs
  • Resistor
  • Micro-USB
  • Soldering Iron
  • Solder
  • Fume extractor

Step by Step:

  • Designed the PCB in Eagle
  • Go to CAM Processor and export as a zip folder
  • Go to PCBWay and upload dimensional information and upload zip file
  • Pre-solder the USB Micro connectors and resistor to the PCBs using solder paste
  • Be aware of the anode and cathode according to this diagram (flat side is the ground/cathode)
  • Test

It was challenging making sure that all the files were correct for manufacturing the PCB. I learned how to make custom shapes for PCBs.

Categories
3d printing CAD - Design Electronics - Arduino machine shop Project

Custom LED Lamps

by Bryan Bushey, Linnea Caraballo, and Trevor Neal

We designed custom LED lamps using LEDs and protoboards.

Equipment/Software:

  • 3D Printer
  • Wood
  • Soldering Stations
  • LEDs
  • USB Cable
  • Spray Paint

Electronics

We soldered 3 LEDs in parallel using a protoboard. We then took a micro-USB cable and cut off the USB end and stripped the wires so that it exposed the power and ground cables. We then soldered these to the LEDs so that they could be powered.

Final

The final design for the LED lamp was using a 3D printed lamp shade, a wooden base, and reusing hula-hoop parts to make the arm of the lamp. We then spray painted the base and hula-hoop part.

            This was one of the first electronic projects and workshops done, so it was a good way to get the hang of running workshops. It was also one of the first collaborative projects between multiple staff members and it allowed us to reuse parts that we no longer needed without having to throw them out.