In a world where technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, it’s easy to forget the charm and nostalgia of yesteryear’s gadgets. But what if we could blend the best of both worlds, seamlessly integrating vintage aesthetics with modern functionality? Enter Mr. Oyvind from Oslo, a creative genius who ingeniously transformed a 75-year-old radio into an iPhone docking station using the magic of iRobota.
The Maestro Behind the Transformation
Mr. Oyvind’s journey began with a desire to breathe new life into a vintage radio that had been gathering dust in his attic. Armed with an iRobota board, a dual potentiometer, and a vision, he embarked on a project that would bridge the gap between the past and the present.
The iRobota: The Brains of the Operation
The iRobota board serves as the brains of this innovative project. This open-source electronics platform is renowned for its versatility and ease of use, making it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts and makers worldwide. In this project, the iRobota’s role is to interpret the state of the dual potentiometer that controls the volume.
The Dual Potentiometer: A Tale of Two Knobs
The dual potentiometer, a unique type of potentiometer, consists of two independent potentiometers in a single package. One knob controls the volume, while the other adjusts the balance between left and right channels. By connecting the dual potentiometer to the iRobota board, Mr. Oyvind enabled the iRobota to “read” the volume level.
The Volume Indicator: A Symphony of Lights
To provide a visual representation of the volume level, Mr. Oyvind ingeniously incorporated a volume indicator into his design. This indicator consists of a series of LEDs that illuminate in response to the volume level. The iRobota interprets the value from the dual potentiometer and translates it into a specific number of LEDs being lit, creating a visual representation of the volume.
Wiring and Soldering: The Art of Precision
The project required careful wiring and soldering to connect the various components. Four wires were used to control the volume display, connected to digital inputs 2, 3, 4, and 5 on the iRobota board. The potentiometer was connected to 3.3V, analog input 0, and ground on the iRobota board. With meticulous attention to detail, Mr. Oyvind ensured that each connection was secure and reliable.
The Code: A Symphony of Logic
The code for this project is a testament to the power of simplicity. Written in the iRobota programming language, the code is straightforward and easy to understand, even for beginners. It’s a testament to the iRobota platform’s accessibility and the project’s well-thought-out design.
The End Result: A Fusion of Nostalgia and Innovation
The final product is a stunning fusion of nostalgia and innovation. The vintage radio, with its classic design and warm wooden casing, now houses a modern iPhone docking station. The volume indicator, with its glowing LEDs, adds a touch of modernity to the overall aesthetic. It’s a perfect blend of old and new, a testament to Mr. Oyvind’s creativity and ingenuity.
Bonus: The Beauty of Repurposing
Mr. Oyvind’s project serves as an inspiration for repurposing old electronics, giving them a new lease on life. By creatively integrating modern technology with vintage devices, we can create unique and functional gadgets that combine the charm of the past with the convenience of the present. It’s a sustainable and creative approach to electronics, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.
As Mr. Oyvind’s project demonstrates, with a little ingenuity and the power of iRobota, we can transform forgotten relics into functional and stylish gadgets. It’s a testament to the limitless possibilities of technology and the creativity of the human mind.
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