Website Post: Episode 316 Exploration: Soft Robots, Mastering Linux, Repurposing Cellphones into Single-Board Computers, and Exploring Circuit Etching
Welcome back to our weekly roundup with editors Elliot Williams and Tom Nardi! In this episode, we're diving into some fantastic events that put tech enthusiasts in a bind - the Vintage Computer Festival East and the Philadelphia Maker Faire, both epic happenings scheduled for the same weekend.
We delve into the world of DIY soft robotics, discussing the future of robots with a squishy touch, powered by air pressure and 3D printed! Yes, you heard it right - robots that can wander out of a 3D printer.
When it comes to old smartphones, we chat about the possibilities of turning them into general-purpose computers. Wouldn't it be cool to breathe new life into your old devices?
Keep your eyes peeled for projects like Command and Conquer: Red Alert running on the Pi Pico 2, the challenge of running Linux on 8-pin ICs, and strategies to improve WiFi reception on cheap ESP32 development boards.
Don't forget the debate on the current state of non-Google web browsers, and a unique new machine that can engrave circuit boards with astounding accuracy. Strap in for an exciting episode!
As always, our podcast is available for free as a DRM-free MP3 download. You can catch us on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, RSS, YouTube, and our Libsyn landing page.
Episode 316 Show Notes:
News:
- Celebrating 30 Years Of Windows 95 At VCF
- The Philly Maker Faire Finds Its Groove in 2025
Interesting Hacks of the Week:
- Salamander Robot, the Future of Squishy Robots
- 8 Pins For Linux
- Simple Antenna Makes For Better ESP32-C3 WiFi
- LayerLapse Simplifies 3D Printer Time-lapse Shots
- Turning Old Cellphones Into SBCs
- Ben Eater Vs. Microsoft BASIC
Quick Hacks:
- Elliot's Picks: A Tiny Tape Synth, Working With Point Clouds, Dangers of USB-C Splitters
- Tom's Picks: Tracking the ISS, Command and Conquer Ported to the Pi Pico 2, DIY PCBs with a Fiber Laser
Can't-Miss Articles:
- Browser Showdown for 2025
- Supercon 2024: High-Feature Boards with Circuit Graver
In the realm of DIY tech, we explore the fascinating hack called "8 Pins For Linux," attempting to run the operating system on 8-pin ICs.
In the world of robotics, we delve into the futuristic concept of "Salamander Robot," a squishy robot powered by air pressure and 3D printed, marking a new era in soft robotics.
For enthusiasts of electronics and technology, don't miss out on the debate about the current state of non-Google web browsers, channelling our inner tech gurus.
