This video demonstrates building a "faux infinity mirror" effect around a TV screen using recycled materials. The creator utilizes a broken LCD monitor, extracting its backlight and diffuser panel. These are then combined with a one-way mirror film applied to a picture frame and strategically placed LED strips to create the illusion of depth and infinite reflections behind the TV. The project highlights a resourceful way to enhance a standard television's aesthetic using readily available, discarded electronics.
Berlin Swapfest is an electronics flea market held multiple times a year near Alexanderplatz, Berlin. It's a place for hobbyists, tinkerers, and professionals to buy, sell, and swap electronic components, tools, and gadgets, ranging from vintage computers and oscilloscopes to resistors and capacitors. Entrance is free for visitors. Vendors can rent tables to sell their wares, creating a vibrant marketplace for all things electronic.
Hacker News users reacted positively to the Berlin Swapfest announcement. Several expressed interest in attending or wished they could, with some lamenting the lack of similar events in their own locations (particularly in the US). Some users reminisced about past swap meets and the unique atmosphere and finds they offered. One commenter pointed out the potential benefits for hobbyists and repair enthusiasts seeking specific parts, contrasting it with the often limited and expensive options available online. The overall sentiment was one of nostalgia and appreciation for the opportunity to engage with a community of like-minded electronics enthusiasts.
Right to Repair legislation has now been introduced in all 50 US states, marking a significant milestone for the movement. While no state has yet passed a comprehensive law covering all product categories, the widespread introduction of bills signifies growing momentum. These bills aim to compel manufacturers to provide consumers and independent repair shops with the necessary information, tools, and parts to fix their own devices, from electronics and appliances to agricultural equipment. This push for repairability aims to reduce electronic waste, empower consumers, and foster competition in the repair market. Though the fight is far from over, with various industries lobbying against the bills, the nationwide reach of these legislative efforts represents substantial progress.
Hacker News commenters generally expressed support for Right to Repair legislation, viewing it as a win for consumers, small businesses, and the environment. Some highlighted the absurdity of manufacturers restricting access to repair information and parts, forcing consumers into expensive authorized repairs or planned obsolescence. Several pointed out the automotive industry's existing right to repair as a successful precedent. Concerns were raised about the potential for watered-down legislation through lobbying efforts and the need for continued vigilance. A few commenters discussed the potential impact on security and safety if unqualified individuals attempt repairs, but the overall sentiment leaned heavily in favor of the right to repair movement's progress.
Summary of Comments ( 3 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43255446
HN commenters largely praised the ingenuity and DIY spirit of the project, with several expressing admiration for the creator's resourcefulness in using recycled materials. Some discussed the technical aspects, questioning the actual contrast ratio achieved and pointing out that "infinity contrast" is a misnomer as true black is impossible without individually controllable pixels like OLED. Others debated the practicality and image quality compared to commercially available projectors, noting potential issues with brightness and resolution. A few users shared similar DIY projection projects they had undertaken or considered. Overall, the sentiment was positive, viewing the project as a fun experiment even if not a practical replacement for a standard TV.
The Hacker News post linking to the YouTube video about a DIY "infinity contrast" TV built with recycled parts generated a moderate number of comments, mostly focusing on the technical aspects and feasibility of the project.
Several commenters questioned the use of the term "infinity contrast," pointing out that while the approach improves black levels, it doesn't achieve true infinite contrast. They argued that some light still leaks through, and the contrast ratio, while improved, is finite. This sparked a discussion about the definition and practical limitations of contrast ratios in display technology.
One commenter discussed the challenges of achieving perfect black levels and how even high-end OLED displays struggle with near-black gray uniformity, where different areas of the screen might display slightly different shades of near-black. This ties into the broader conversation about the limitations of display technology and the trade-offs involved in different approaches.
Another line of discussion revolved around the practicality of the project. Commenters debated the cost-effectiveness of building such a display versus buying a commercially available one, especially considering the time and effort involved in sourcing and assembling the components. Some also questioned the longevity and reliability of a DIY solution compared to manufactured displays.
There were also comments appreciating the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the project, highlighting the value of repurposing old technology. Some users expressed interest in trying similar projects or suggested alternative approaches to achieving similar results. A few commenters shared their own experiences with similar projects involving projection systems and ambient light rejection techniques.
Finally, a few commenters provided additional technical insights into the workings of projection systems and the specific components used in the video, offering further context for those interested in understanding the technical details of the project. Overall, the comments section provided a mix of technical discussion, practical considerations, and appreciation for the DIY spirit of the project, demonstrating a typical Hacker News engagement with such topics.