InTheMail | Voltlog #476

Gear up, electronics enthusiasts! In this installment of InTheMail, we’re diving deep into a treasure trove of tech goodies that are sure to elevate your workshop game. From cutting-edge ESP32-C3 development boards to sleek braided heat shrink tubing, we’ve got you covered. First up, we’re exploring the world of the ESP32-C3, a powerful microcontroller based on the RISC-V architecture.

We’ve got not one, but three dev boards to showcase, each with its unique features and form factors. Whether you need a compact solution or a board packed with extras like USB-C ports and status LEDs, we’ve got you covered. But that’s not all! We’re also taking a closer look at braided heat shrink cable sleeving, a professional-grade solution for your wiring projects.

While it comes with a few caveats, like a higher price tag and stiffer finish, the braided look is undeniably sleek and polished. Continuing our exploration, we stumble upon a rather intriguing (and slightly concerning) product – a pet positioning GPS locator with a built-in microphone. While its tracking capabilities are questionable, the ability to listen in on conversations raises some ethical concerns.

We’ll leave it up to you to decide how to utilize this technology responsibly. Moving on to more practical solutions, we’ve got our hands on a nifty hand wave sensor and a touch sensor designed for furniture integration. These clever devices allow you to control lighting and other low-voltage DC applications with a simple wave or touch, adding a touch of convenience and modernity to your projects.

And speaking of lighting, we’re diving into the world of LED tape controllers, specifically one powered by an ESP8266 module. While it may not be the ideal choice for driving analog LED tapes due to potential flickering issues, it’s a fantastic option for digital LED tapes, offering seamless integration with popular open-source firmware platforms like Tasmota, WLED, and ESPHome.

But wait, there’s more! We’re also exploring a budget-friendly Apple Watch charger clone and a unique stainless steel scrub cleaner for those who value a sparkling workshop (and cast iron pans!).

InTheMail | Voltlog #457

In the latest edition of the beloved “InTheMail” series, our host unveils an exciting array of gadgets and tools sourced from the ever-reliable AliExpress. From practical accessories to cutting-edge electronics, this mailbag caters to both the passionate hobbyist and the professional tinkerer. Kicking things off, we explore a nifty threaded inserts tool kit, designed to seamlessly integrate threaded inserts into 3D printed parts.

Next up is a game-changing wireless adapter that brings the convenience of Apple CarPlay to your vehicle, eliminating the need for cumbersome wired connections. The mailbag also unveils a sleek carbon fiber EVA carry case, perfect for organizing and transporting your electronics tools on the go. Pill organizer boxes offer a versatile storage solution for small components, while waterproof Apple AirTag cases promise to extend the functionality of these handy trackers to aquatic environments.

Practical items like neoprene repair patches, adhesive-backed silicone rubber, and emergency signaling mirrors cater to a wide range of outdoor and survival needs. Battery terminal insulator sleeves and a miniaturized USB-C heating plate demonstrate the versatility of the offerings. For the tech-savvy, the mailbag includes a generic ESP32 development board with an OLED screen, as well as the tiny ESP8685-WROOM-07-H4 module, a potential replacement for Tuya CBLC5 modules.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the rugged 12KN carabiners and a handy aluminum bottle opener tool. Last but not least, a wall socket power analyzer promises to provide detailed insights into energy consumption, making it an invaluable tool for energy-conscious individuals and professionals alike.