Weekend Projects

Latest: Simple Laser Communicator

How would you like to talk over a laser beam? In about 15 minutes you can set up your own laser communication system using a cheap laser pointer and a few parts from RadioShack. The audio signal from a microphone varies the power feeding the laser, so that its brightness changes, following the shape of the original sound wave. At the receiving end, a solar cell or photo-resistor converts the oscillating light signal back into the original sound.

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Add Volume, Jack

Plug in and turn up any sound-making battery toy.

Alarm Bag

Add an anti-theft alarm to your messenger bag!

Aircraft Band Receiver

Modify an ordinary AM/FM radio to eavesdrop on air traffic control.

Floating Glow Display

Glowing sign uses an LED and internal reflection for a fascinating visual effect.

Light Theremin

Use the ever-popular 555 timer chip to create an instrument of the retro-future!

The Luna Mod Looper

A simple handheld synth and looper box that generates intriguing sonic rhythms.

Mystery Electronic Switches

This prank gadget frustrates people, but only you know...

Simple Laser Communicator

Talk in secret over your own private laser beam link.

Solar TV Remote

Juice your flipper with sunlight.

Solar USB Charger

A simple-to-make charger that safely recharges many USB devices using solar power.

Treasure Finder

Build a metal detector for a fraction of the cost.

USB Webcam Microscope

Convert a webcam into a fun USB microscope.

Wearable Light Organ

Turn a few common components into a wearable dance floor light show!

Whack-a-Mole Game

555 timer chips create a mini version of the "Whack-a-Mole" arcade game.

555 Timer Ball Whacker

A wooden arm swats at objects when they draw near.

While there's certainly great rewards in projects you slowly complete over months, hard work building on hard work, there's something to be said for a quick and easy project you can put together in a weekend. You'll impress your kids, your neighbors, and probably even yourself.

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Weekend Projects is part of RadioShack's The Great Create.

Weekend Projects

These awesome DIY projects are brought to you by RadioShack's The Great Create! Find inspiration here and get started on your own creations.

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