Electronic Projects Page

I present a collection of odd projects I have worked-on over the past few years. For a decade, I taught both embedded systems (microcontroller technology) and digital signal processing and practice what I preach: many projects here are microcontroller-based and employ PIC or dsPIC series chips from Microchip.

Digital Oscilloscope A project for which I developed the firmware. Employing a dsPIC33FJ, this basic scope features a 1MS/s sample rate and a low-cost graphical LCD display.

Accelerometer An accelerometer employing a new MEMS 3-axis chip from Analog Devices. Uses a 3.3V dsPIC (33FJ series) and large SST flash memory chip. Data can be downloaded to a PC for analysis.

DSP Colour Organ 1960's flashing lights meets 2000's DSP technology: a colour organ using entirely digital filtering and featuring constant volume adjustment and true phase-control of lights.

MAME Arcade Machine ... capable of emulating almost any classic arcade game from the 1980's. Features details of the cabinet as well as a custom USB interface for the joystick and buttons using a PIC 18F4550 microcontroller.

RV Fan Speed Controller A low-tech speed controller for an RV air conditioner fan allowing the fan to run quieter and allow the unit to dehumidify better. In cludes an electronic anti-freeze up circuit.

Pinball Machines ... chronicles the rebuilding of a 1980 pinball machine including repair of electronics (with replacement of obsolete components as well) and mechanical and artistic touch-ups.

Win-32 Logic Analyzer Presented is both the hardware and software for a Win-32 based Logic Analyzer. This is an updated version of an old project which now uses a USB interface, sports a 50MS/s sample rate, and supports 3.3V as well as 5V logic.

Nixie Thermostat A heating and cooling thermostat employing technologies spanning fourty years from the unique Nixie tube display, circa 1960's, to a PIC 18F microcontroller, circa 2006.

dsPIC Based Flat Panel A dsPIC Digital Signal Controller chip is used to generate real-time video signals to drive a flat-panel display. Targeted at a Finlux Electroluminescent display panel, the project is adaptable for almost any panel with separate sync inputs.

Laser Light Show A laser light show controller based on a 30F dsPIC chip. This vector-scanning system can produce complex images and allows upload of vector files via the serial port.

Doll House Elevator and Lighting A controller for a doll house which runs a three-floor elevator as well as lights. Features auto-off. The 'cleanest' piece of code I have ever written (at least which isn't covered by an NDA)! Uses interrupts for timing.

Halloween Displays and Costumes Each year I build an automated display to scare the trick and treaters. This year's offering includes a coffin with skeleton which opens when a laser beam is broken. This page also includes light-up costumes for my youngest daughter.