While we wait patiently for camera manufacturers to realize that geotagging is a much more compelling feature than yet another megapixel, we’ll be building this DIY GPS attachment for the Nikon D200 instead. Just like the $400 GeoPic II, the box is based on a SiRF Star III chip, but since you’re building it yourself, you’ll wind up shelling out less than $100. While you’ll need a steady hand and a bit of soldering skill, it doesn’t look too hard to put together — so what are you waiting for? Instructions at the read link.

[Via Make and hack a day]
more info
from engadget

It’s not the first method we’ve seen for blinding security cameras, but this new DIY / art project from the folks at Oberwelt e.V. looks to be one of the simplest, and one of the few that could conceivably be used on an everyday basis. Dubbed the I-R.A.S.C. (for “infra-redlight against surveillance camera”), the device apparently consists simply of a series of infrared lights connected to a battery, which combine to blot out your face with a slightly unnerving glow. Needless to say, while it appears to hide your identity quite effectively, it doesn’t exactly scream subtlety, so you’d best think of some excuses to explain yourself if you actually plan on trying this thing out in public.

[Via Coolest Gadgets]
more info
from engadget

If you’ve been hankering for a way to void your UMPC warranty, or just want to add a touch more utility while getting down and dirty with a soldering iron, this here hack may be the one that fits the bill. Facing the daunting task of shoving an internal USB hub into the already cramped confines of a TabletKiosk eo, thoughtfix managed to not only burn his fingers, add a few ventilation holes, and sharpen those wiring skills, but he also stuffed a three-port USB hub within his UMPC. Apparently, the internal WiFi / Bluetooth module’s USB interface can be tapped into to provide a way for a hub to be installed, and while two of the three ports remain open, a 2GB Sony Micro Vault Tiny was plugged into one connector for ReadyBoost usage. ‘Course, the actual process of rigging this up is far too complicated for this space, but if you’re feelin’ froggy, jump on down and give the read link a bit of your time.

[Via Hack-A-Day]
more info
from engadget

Just months after scientists were able to run a quantum computer simulation on an everyday PC, we’re now hearing that a Calvin College student / professor tandem have created an inexpensive, portable supercomputer for crunching massive chunks of data on the go (and on the cheap). Dubbed Microwulf, the wee beast is hailed as a “machine that is among the smallest and least expensive supercomputers on the planet,” and when not being checked as baggage on a flight, can reportedly process 26.25 gigaflops of data per second. The system itself touts “four dual-core motherboards connected by an eight-port gigabit Ethernet switch,” and when initially constructed, it cost just $2,470 to build. Talk about a solid price-to-performance ratio.

[Via Slashdot]
more info
from engadget

Hey, we can’t all live in the pimped out mansions or nicely appointed lodges, but an NYU graduate student is making it her personal mission to do something substantial about it. The living portable project has yielded a cardboard-based Shell House contraption that requires just $35 worth of material, a bit of time, and a hearty dose of generosity. The DIY project allows interested citizens to build collapsible houses for homeless individuals, and moreover, gives them an opportunity to experience ubiquitous computing by way of an integrated radio network. Moreover, you can couple this with a homegrown solar heater, and you’ve got yourself a date with nature.

[Via Core77]
Read – Instructions on building a Shell House
Read – Shell House homepage

From engadget

This shows why everyone should use stronger Windows passwords for security reasons. You know what they say: “It’s better to be safe than sorry.” Click Video link for more info. Short disclaimer from the video’s creator:

Why should you use strong passwords? This video shows how to crack windows passwords. It is only intended for educational purposes, to show you why it is important to use stronger passwords. Don’t use this information illegally

Video here
From techeblog

If you’ve got a broken DVD-burner laying around, then why not use it to make your own “high-powered laser”? Full instructions here.

The laser pictured above has a peak output measured at 225 mW (average output 200 mW). It’s a visible red at about 650nm. It can light matches, pop balloons, cut electrical tape, and so forth. It can do pretty much anything a Pulsar 150 from Wicked Lasers can do, because it’s basically the same thing. The only differences? This laser was home-made, and cost about 1/3 the price

[via HackedGadgets - Make]
from techeblog