Although off-the-shelf gadgets are convenient, reliable, and robust, creating one or two yourself can be more rewarding and fun. With technology ever improving, we’re living in the golden age for making gadgets, as the following DIY projects prove.
Save some money and expand your creativity more by learning more about electronics and tackle one or more of these DIY projects yourself.
Homemade AC Unit
It’s no secret that home appliances are expensive, especially air conditioning units—and the electricity bills that come after can be as equally costly. Luckily, DIY air conditioners are easy to make, and it’s a great substitute to reduce your spending. There are several ways to create one. The simplest one is by attaching mini fans to a cooler filled with ice.
However, these are usually “open” units, so the condensation caused by the ice melting and potential leaks may attract insects. If you’re planning on using the DIY AC conditioner over the summer, make sure to contact your local mosquito and pest control services and let you enjoy your gadget in peace.
Pet Feeder
If you have a pet or two at home and live alone, feeding them may be difficult, and automatic pet feeders aren’t the cheapest in the market. Luckily, you can make a pet feeder at home for a fraction of automated pet feeders. You can build one using two big soda bottles, but keep in mind that you’ll be leaving your pet’s food open, so make sure only to put enough food so it won’t spoil.
Smartphone Projector
Many smartphone companies have tried making handsets with projectors inside them, but not many have succeeded. So, what better way to address this dilemma than take on the job yourself? It’s relatively easy to make, so regardless of your skill level, you’ll be able to make one with ease.
Essentially, making a smartphone projector requires you to use a magnifying lens to make the picture coming from your phone bigger alongside cardboard, dowels, and a mirror to ensure the final image isn’t flipped the wrong way. Although the final product won’t be as good as a pre-made projector, it’ll be watchable.
VR Headset
VR headsets are a trendy gadget among consumers of all ages since they offer the best virtual reality experience on the go. However, they’re expensive and can get old fast. So, why not make it more fun, rewarding, and exponentially better by making one of your own? You can create one using an Arduino board, allowing you to make a quality VR headset for cheap.
You don’t need to do any coding for this project, and all you have to do is create the headset’s frame, which you can make using a 3D printer or make one from scratch. It’s a rewarding project since it can help you learn more about virtual reality along the way.
Night Light
Whether you have kids or make one for yourself, making night lights at home is easier than you think, and it can exponentially make your evenings more relaxing. Plus, you can tinker with this project in whatever way you want. You can create one by using pre-made littleBits sensors and a simple cardboard template.
You can add any design that would fit into the room’s aesthetic, and thanks to the pre-constructed sensors, you don’t need coding skills to make it work — all you need is to assemble your night light. It’s a great DIY project for gadget-making beginners or one you can have your kids participate in.
Rocket Stove
Whether you’re going on a camping trip or want to save money on electricity and gas, creating a rocket stove is your best choice. The best part is that you can use leftover tin cans for this project and use any insulation you prefer, saving you money and time.
However, keep in mind that rocket stoves can’t cook complicated meals like slow-roasted meat since they can’t burn as powerful as a traditional stove.
Wi-Fi Antenna
Slow internet connection is never ideal, whether it’s for work or casual use. Luckily, you can boost your wireless signal with a simple tin can Wi-Fi Antenna. Although it may seem impossible, it can do wonders for your Wi-Fi connection. The best part is, it’s incredibly affordable.
All you need to do is attach the Wi-Fi’s connector to the tin can, connect its antenna, and place it in a high area like a shelf.
Whether you consider yourself a tinkerer or are new to the practice, the DIY gadgets mentioned are easy enough to do at home, allowing you to save money and make cool gadgets yourself with ease. Pick up a project over the weekend and expand your skills over time.
