1-Day Build - Adjustable Foot Rest

This is my take on a footstool, made from Ikea lumber. Height-adjustable, unadorned, and minimal. A footstool is necessary for children whose feet don't reach the floor when sitting in a high chair to provide adequate back support, aid in optimal sitting position, lessen weariness, and so on. Replacement therapeutic chair at a discount. 

Build: Spark Plug Tester

Beware of 25,000 volts!

A few years back, I had the incredible opportunity to take on a commissioned project for a dear friend of mine. The task at hand? Building a spark plug tester from scratch. It was an exciting challenge that allowed me to put my skills to the test and dive into the world of automotive engineering. Today, I want to share with you the story of how this project came to be and the journey I embarked on to bring it to life. After much delay and anticipation, I am thrilled to finally share my latest work with all of you. Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs, and unfortunately, publishing this piece took longer than expected. But hey, better late than never, right? 

So, without further ado, here it is! Pouring my heart and soul into this project has been an incredible journey. From the initial spark of inspiration to countless hours of research and writing, every step of the process has been a labor of love. Ah, let me tell you about the exhilarating journey I embarked on with this project. 

Example of a spark plug cable replacement part.

Courtesy photo from ProtonPeroduaParts.com.my

It wasn't just about tinkering with electronics; oh no, it was so much more than that. The true thrill lay in the art of constructing the very foundation for the spark plug. When it comes to purchasing spark plug cables, your best bet is to head over to your local auto parts shop. There, you'll find a variety of options that include both the cable and ignition coil insert. However, it's important to note that some of these cables may be on the flimsier side. 

Unfortunately, they may not come with a latch or any mechanism to securely attach them to the construction box. So, I made the bold decision to embark on a thrilling adventure - building my very own creation from scratch. In my latest project, I decided to delve into the world of high-voltage generators. To achieve this, I opted for an old flyback transformer salvaged from a CRT TV.  I couldn't resist the allure of repurposing this vintage piece of technology to power my circuit. 

As you scroll through these images, you'll witness the transformation from mere blueprints. I am thrilled to share with you a project that has brought me immense joy and satisfaction. I sincerely hope that you will find it equally enjoyable, and I eagerly await your feedback and any similar projects you may have embarked upon. 

Always test your circuit first on a breadboard

I built the PCB using the toner transfer
technique for this project. Got a pretty good result.

I used the old CRT flyback transformer for this
project and the 2N3055 transistor for the driver

This is what the inside looks like. The left side is the high-voltage
circuit meanwhile the right side is the low-voltage supply

A simple construction of the spark plug holder

The final construction with the protective plastic cover

Close up photo

Woodwork: Tinkering an Armrest for the children IKEA chair

This past weekend, I decided to dedicate some time to my beloved craft. I recently came across a delightful find at Ikea - a charming wooden chair designed specifically for children. However, upon closer inspection, I couldn't help but notice that it was missing one important feature - an armrest. When it comes to teaching young children proper posture, there are a few key things to keep in mind. One important aspect is ensuring that their backs are straight and properly aligned with the back of the chair. This helps to promote good spinal health and prevent any potential issues down the line. Additionally, having a chair with appropriate armrests can also aid in maintaining proper posture. By providing support for their arms, children can avoid slouching or hunching over. 

Let's talk about the importance of armrests for children. These little accessories serve a dual purpose - not only do they prevent the child from falling to the side, but they also help them push themselves up to sit properly. It's fascinating how such a simple addition can make a big difference in ensuring the safety and comfort of our little ones. 

Today, I wanted to share a little DIY project I recently tackled. I decided to add an armrest to my trusty IKEA chair, and I must say, it has really transformed the look and feel of the piece. I thought it would be great to give you a glimpse of how it turned out, so I snapped a few pictures to share with you. Let's dive in and take a closer look at this little upgrade! 

It may not be groundbreaking, but making small adjustments can provide better support for those who need it. So, I took this to my child's preschool class, and to my surprise, it captivated the attention of many young minds. The project was a simple build, yet it managed to pique the curiosity of the children. Have you ever come across a sturdy, solid, and low-cost children's chair that seems to be impossible to find? 

IKEA Chair with the arm rest mod

My first time working on mortises and tenon
technique for the arm. Not bad eh?

Teardown: Sharp Air Purifier FU-Z31

Air purifier has become an essential appliance in every home and especially during the hazy season, it sells like a hot cake. I bought this back in 4 years ago when the haze problem became intolerable in Malaysia. This is a basic air filter with HEPA filtration with Plasmacluster Ion feature from Sharp. I took this opportunity to tear it down when it requires thorough cleaning since the day I bought it. Let's get our curious mind going and look what's inside.

This is what inside the air purifier looks like. Simple isn't it?

Up closed at the motor and ionizer unit

Basically there are 3 sections on the controller board.
Left section - Front panel controller circuit. Middle section - AC switching circuit, Right section - Power supply circuit

Rear view of the controller board and where the brain is located

To know more about and which one suits you, visit air purifier guide: http://www.reviews.com/air-purifier/

1-Day Build ~ Stall Bars IKEA Woods

My one day woodwork build stall bars using IKEA woods. 

Makerspace in Penang Heritage Building Opens

Come all Penang "lang" (people in Hokkien dialect) to our new makerspace at Wisma Yeap Chor Ee, opposite the ferry terminal at Georgetown. Penang Science Cluster now opens a new center that equipped with cafeteria, training rooms, makers exhibition area and makerspace in the heart of Georgetown. Just officially launched on the 5th Dec 2015 by our Chief Minister of Penang Lim Guan Eng. We have yet to announced the membership process for public to use the makerspace but do come and check it out first. 

Here are some of the facilities available at the makerspace and more to come soon...

-Laser cutting machine

-T-Shirt & badge printing

-3D printing

-Woodworking machine & tools

-Metalworking machine & tools

-MMA/TIG/MIG welding machine

-PCB making tools (coming soon)

-Soldering equipments

-Bench multimeter, power supply, scope, etc

-Electronic kits & modules (Intel, NI, Arduino, Cytron..etc)

-Personal workspace

-Sewing machine (coming soon)

-CNC milling machine (coming soon)

and more to come... 

Personal electronic workbench equipped with instruments

Electronic measurement instruments from Keysight Technologies

Learn to Solder - Maker Fest 2015

The makers were here again in Penang at sPICE arena on 14-15th Nov 2015 for the Penang Maker Fest after we had the Penang Mini Maker Faire last year.  More stuffs, more things, more excitement and more crowds. How can I run away from organizing the Learn to Solder workshop after we had good response last year. However this year, I made it simpler while making it more fun and exciting for everyone to solder. Luckily this year I had more volunteers also to help me out in coaching the enthusiastic visitors to solder. The volunteers were great and tirelessly helping from 10am to 7pm on both days until we ran out of boards. Thanks to Motorola Solutions Penang and Penang Science Cluster for sponsoring the parts and PCB. I will let the picture below speaks to you.

Learn to Solder Workshop commence on the first day

One of the volunteer trying to pin the blinky LED on our
Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng

Teardown: Malaysia SmartTAG

The "Touch 'n Go" card was first introduced in Malaysia in 1997 is an electronic payment system using Philips MIFARE system. The card is not only used in toll payment but also widely used in parking and public transportation system. Soon enough an on board vehicle device toll collection SmartTAG - acronym in Malay Sistem Membayar Automatik Rangkaian Tol  or "Toll Network Automatic Payment System" was introduced to complement with Touch 'n Go card. SmartTAG was designed, developed and manufactured by Teras Teknologi Sdn Bhd, a local company and with the intellectual property rights by an Austrian company known as EFKON Gmbh. The main function of the SmartTag is to relay data between the card and toll system using infrared technology. 

Taking the SmartTAG device apart is pretty straightforward. Just removing the battery cap and one Philip screw head will separate the casing. Basically there are three main electronics parts: main board, pick-up coil and the liquid crystal display. In order to to have a better view of the main board, I will need to desolder the 6-pin header connector from the pick-up coil board.

Top casing removed reveals the mainboard. This side consist of the main controller and Infrared LEDs

Certificate of Appreciation as PMMF14 Committee

Certificate of appreciation from Penang Science Cluster as part of the organizing committee for Penang Mini Maker Faire 2014 (conjunction with Penang International Science Fair). First certificate received with Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng signature. Looking forward for 2015!

My 8x8x8 LED Cube at PMMF14

I spent almost 40 hours to build this. This project test my patience and soldering skill. If you want to build one yourself, follow this site that has a detailed step-by-step instructions with source code. I also purchased an 8x8x8 LED cube kit from eBay which I haven't construct yet. Will post it up once is done. 

I showed this during the Penang Mini Maker Faire 2014 together with my friend's LED Message Board and 3D Cube booth.