Projects
Since I have a number of projects I’m working on simultaneously, this page gives a summary of what I’m doing.
Carputer (updated 08-06-2007)
The carputer project involves my roomies car, and the installation of a computer into it. The computer will control many aspects of the car, including the ignition and doors. My roomie is doing the work with the carputer itself, however I am working on a bluetooth module that will allow a cell phone or PDA to unlock the doors, start the car, and boot the main carputer. The bluetooth module will consist of the bluetooth wireless chip and a microcontroller to perform the necessary actions. I’m using a development kit from Comfile for this project. The bluetooth modules can transmit data between computers and I’m currently working on interfacing them with the microcontroller. This project has stalled, due to dead bluetooth chips.
Webcam Astrophotography (updated 08-06-2007)
I am using a Philips SPC900NC webcam to produce high quality images of various celestial objects. First the moon, and then on to more difficult targets. I have the camera with the telescope adapter ready to go, but am waiting on a few more items. One of the first things I need to get is an infrared filter (CCD sensors are sensitive to infrared light). This is currently on hold due to lack of time.
Kegerator (updated 12-27-2008)
The kegerator is done, and can hold 2 quarter kegs. My roommate is working on a card swipe authentication system so that you pay only for the beer that you drink. The card swipe system worked, but detecting how much beer was dispensed was problematic. We have not worked on this in a while.
Stock Clock (updated 12-27-2008)
My roommate and myself have started working on a internet enabled stock clock to show a stocks performance in real time. Work has just started and we should have something to show in a few weeks.