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Gadget Freak

Gadget Freak Case #137: Attention-Grabbing 'Blue Light Special'

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William Grill wanted to draw attention to a trade show booth. He considered a big neon sign, loud music and a provocative attitude, but instead he created this attention-getting gadget — his "Blue Light Special." Grill made this gadget with a mere $15 in materials. It is built around Microchip Technologies' 16F505 controller. The application uses a single button to set off two rotating arrays of eight LEDs. Using PVC or metal tubing, the beacon can be mounted on almost anything. For packaging, Grill uses a small pickle jar.

 

Gadget Freak Case 137 Attention-Grabbing Blue Light Special

Amt Part Description Allied Part #
1 2.7K O ¼W, 1/8W SMD or Axial 832-0421
1 270O ¼W, 1/8W SMD or Axial 832-0263
1 Controller, PDIP or SMD Equivalent, PIC 12F505-I/P, PDIP 383-0386
2 SPST Button, Red or Black Momentary N.O. or Equivalent 948-7199
2 Perf Board, Copper Pad 1 or Both Sides or Equivalent 977-0088
  LEDs, 5mm, White, round, clear 
  Wall power - 9-12 VDC, 5W to 10W, 120V60Hz or any equivalent  
  Power jack, selected based on wall power, lead format  
  Wire - 5 ft or as required

 
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