A Pi-hole dramatically improves the browsing experience by acting as a network-wide ad blocker. Set up on a Raspberry Pi (or other device), it intercepts DNS requests and blocks those destined for known ad servers, resulting in faster page load times, reduced bandwidth usage, and a cleaner, less cluttered online experience. This not only benefits browsing on computers and mobile devices but also smart TVs and other internet-connected appliances, protecting them from unwanted tracking and improving their performance. The author highlights the ease of setup and the satisfying visual representation of blocked ads provided by the Pi-hole's interface, further emphasizing its value as a simple yet powerful tool for enhancing online privacy and performance.
This project showcases a hacked IKEA FADO lamp transformed into a remote-controlled "Death Star." Using an ESP32 microcontroller and a custom PCB, the lamp's brightness and the "superlaser" (a focused LED) are controllable via a web interface, MQTT, or physical buttons. The creator designed a 3D-printed mount for the laser and electronics, seamlessly integrating them into the lamp's structure. The project files, including schematics, code, and 3D models, are open-sourced on GitLab, enabling others to replicate the build.
Hacker News users generally expressed appreciation for the Death Star lamp project, praising the creator's ingenuity and clean execution. Several commenters focused on the clever use of IKEA parts, particularly the "Lack" table, with some suggesting alternative IKEA products for future iterations. A few users offered technical feedback, including suggestions for different microcontrollers or improvements to the dimming functionality. There was some lighthearted discussion around intellectual property concerns regarding the Death Star design, but overall the comments were positive and encouraging.
This blog post recounts a humorous anecdote about the author's father's struggles with technology. The father, while housesitting, diligently followed the author's complex instructions for operating a sous vide cooker to prepare soft-boiled eggs. However, he misinterpreted the instructions, believing the external temperature controller was itself a cooking device, diligently placing eggs directly on top of it. The resulting mess and the father's earnest attempt to follow the confusing instructions highlight the generational gap in technological understanding and the often-comical misunderstandings that can arise.
HN users largely enjoyed the humorous and relatable anecdote about the author's father and his obsession with the "egg controller" (actually a thermostat). Several commenters shared similar stories of their own parents' technological misunderstandings, reinforcing the universal theme of generational differences in tech literacy. Some questioned the authenticity, finding it a bit too perfect, while others pointed out details like the egg controller likely being a Ranco controller, commonly used for incubators and other temperature-sensitive applications. A few expressed appreciation for the author's writing style and the heartwarming nature of the story.
This blog post details a proposed design for a Eurorack synthesizer knob with an integrated display. The author, mitxela, outlines a concept where a small OLED screen sits beneath a transparent or translucent knob, allowing for dynamic parameter labeling and value display directly on the knob itself. This eliminates the need for separate screens or labels, streamlining the module interface and providing clear visual feedback. The proposed design uses readily available components and explores different display options, including segmented and character displays, to minimize cost and complexity. The post focuses on the hardware design and briefly touches on software considerations for driving the displays.
Hacker News users generally praised the Eurorack knob idea for its cleverness and potential usefulness. Several commenters highlighted the satisfying tactile feedback described, and some suggested improvements like using magnets for detents or exploring different materials. The discussion touched on manufacturing challenges, with users speculating about cost-effectiveness and potential issues with durability or wobble. There was also some debate about the actual need for such a knob, with some arguing that existing solutions are sufficient, while others expressed enthusiasm for the innovative approach. Finally, a few commenters shared their own experiences with similar DIY projects or offered alternative design ideas.
Stavros Korokithakis built a custom e-ink terminal using a Raspberry Pi Zero W, a Pimoroni Inky Impression 7.7" display, and a custom 3D-printed case. Motivated by a desire for a distraction-free writing environment and inspired by the now-defunct TRMNL project, he documented the entire process, from assembling the hardware and designing the case to setting up the software and optimizing power consumption. The result is a portable, low-power e-ink terminal ideal for focused writing and coding.
Commenters on Hacker News largely praised the project for its ambition, ingenuity, and clean design. Several expressed interest in purchasing a similar device, highlighting the desire for a distraction-free writing tool. Some offered constructive criticism, suggesting improvements like a larger screen, alternative keyboard layouts, and the ability to sync with cloud services. A few commenters delved into technical aspects, discussing the choice of e-ink display, the microcontroller used, and the potential for open-sourcing the project. The overall sentiment leaned towards admiration for the creator's dedication and the device's potential.
Akdeb open-sourced ElatoAI, their AI toy company project. It uses ESP32 microcontrollers to create small, interactive toys that leverage OpenAI's realtime API for natural language processing. The project includes schematics, code, and 3D-printable designs, enabling others to build their own AI-powered toys. The goal is to provide an accessible platform for experimentation and creativity in the realm of AI-driven interactive experiences, specifically targeting a younger audience with simple and engaging toy designs.
Hacker News users discussed the practicality and novelty of the Elato AI project. Several commenters questioned the value proposition of using OpenAI's API on a resource-constrained device like the ESP32, especially given latency and cost concerns. Others pointed out potential issues with relying on a cloud service for core functionality, making the device dependent on internet connectivity and potentially impacting privacy. Some praised the project for its educational value, seeing it as a good way to learn about embedded systems and AI integration. The open-sourcing of the project was also viewed positively, allowing others to tinker and potentially improve upon the design. A few users suggested alternative approaches like running smaller language models locally to overcome the limitations of the current cloud-dependent architecture.
The author details their attempts to reverse-engineer their apartment's ancient, inefficient gas boiler system to improve its control and efficiency. Frustrated by a lack of documentation and limited physical access, they employed various tools and techniques like thermal cameras, USB oscilloscopes, and deciphering cryptic LED blink codes. Through painstaking observation and deduction, they managed to identify key components, decipher the system's logic, and eventually gain a rudimentary understanding of its operation, enough to potentially implement their own control improvements. While ultimately unable to fully achieve their goal due to the complexity and proprietary nature of the system, the author showcases their inquisitive approach to problem-solving and documents their findings for others facing similar challenges.
Hacker News commenters generally found the author's approach to fixing the boiler problem ill-advised and potentially dangerous. Several pointed out the risks of working with gas appliances without proper qualifications, highlighting the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning or explosions. Some questioned the ethics of modifying the landlord's property without permission, suggesting more appropriate channels like contacting the landlord directly or, if necessary, tenant rights organizations. Others focused on the technical details, questioning the author's diagnostic process and proposing alternative solutions, including bleeding radiators or checking the thermostat. A few commenters sympathized with the author's frustration with a malfunctioning heating system, but even they cautioned against taking matters into one's own hands in such a potentially hazardous situation.
The Evertop is a DIY open-source project aiming to create a modern, portable, and extremely low-power IBM XT compatible computer. It features a 4.2" e-ink display, mechanical keyboard, and boasts over 100 hours of battery life. Based on a Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller emulating an NEC V20 processor, it can run original IBM XT software and DOS games. The project includes custom-designed PCBs and 3D-printed case files, making it reproducible for others. While still under development, the Evertop represents a unique blend of retro computing and modern hardware for a highly portable and energy-efficient experience.
Hacker News commenters generally expressed enthusiasm for the Evertop project, praising its unique combination of retro computing and modern e-ink technology. Several highlighted the impressive battery life and the appeal of a distraction-free writing device. Some questioned the practicality given the slow refresh rate of e-ink, particularly for gaming, while others suggested improvements like backlighting and a more ergonomic keyboard. A few commenters expressed interest in similar projects using different retro hardware, such as the Apple II or Commodore 64. There was also discussion about the challenges of sourcing parts and the potential market for such a niche device. Several users shared their personal experiences with similar e-ink projects and offered technical insights.
This blog post details how the author hosts their blog, surprisingly, on a Nintendo Wii. They leverage the Wii's homebrew capabilities to run a lightweight web server, specifically lighttpd, serving statically generated content built with Hugo. The author chose the Wii for its low power consumption and as a fun, quirky challenge. They overcame obstacles like limited storage by using an SD card and slow CPU by pre-rendering the site. The post also touches on the process of setting up the web server and the limitations of the Wii as a web server.
Hacker News users generally praised the author's ingenuity and technical skill in hosting a blog on a Wii. Several commenters pointed out the limitations of the Wii's hardware, questioning the practicality and performance of such a setup, particularly regarding RAM and CPU. Some discussed the inherent coolness factor and nostalgic appeal of using outdated hardware for modern tasks. A few users shared similar experiences with repurposing old hardware, while others offered suggestions for improving the setup, including using a different operating system or optimizing the blog for the Wii's limited resources. The overall sentiment was one of admiration and playful curiosity, appreciating the unconventional approach to web hosting.
PiLiDAR is a project demonstrating a low-cost, DIY LiDAR scanner built using a Raspberry Pi. It leverages a readily available RPLiDAR A1M8 sensor, Python code, and a simple mechanical setup involving a servo motor to rotate the LiDAR unit, creating 360-degree scans. The project provides complete instructions and software, allowing users to easily build their own LiDAR system for applications like robotics, mapping, and 3D scanning. The provided Python scripts handle data acquisition, processing, and visualization, outputting point cloud data that can be further analyzed or used with other software.
Hacker News users discussed the PiLiDAR project with a focus on its practicality and potential applications. Several commenters questioned the effective range and resolution of the lidar given the Raspberry Pi's processing power and the motor's speed, expressing skepticism about its usefulness for anything beyond very short-range scanning. Others were more optimistic, suggesting applications like indoor mapping, robotics projects, and 3D scanning of small objects. The cost-effectiveness of the project compared to dedicated lidar units was also a point of discussion, with some suggesting that readily available and more powerful lidar units might offer better value. A few users highlighted the educational value of the project, particularly for learning about lidar technology and interfacing hardware with the Raspberry Pi.
This 1915 guide provides instructions and patterns for crocheting a variety of decorative household items, focusing on centerpieces and luncheon sets. It details the necessary materials, including specific crochet hook sizes and mercerized cotton thread. The patterns range in complexity and style, featuring various floral motifs, geometric designs, and edgings. The guide aims to instruct both novice and experienced crocheters in creating beautiful and functional pieces to enhance their dining experience. It emphasizes the use of readily available materials and clear, concise instructions to make these projects accessible to a wide audience.
HN users generally enjoyed the vintage crochet patterns, appreciating both their complexity and the glimpse into a bygone era of home crafts. Several commenters highlighted the impressive skill required for some of the designs, especially the centerpieces, noting the fine thread and intricate details. Others discussed the cultural context of these patterns, mentioning their grandmothers' similar handiwork and speculating about the time commitment involved. One user pointed out the value of such patterns in showcasing the artistry possible with crochet, moving beyond the "granny square" stereotype. The conversation also touched on the practicality of these items in 1915, with some suggesting their use in formal dining and others emphasizing their decorative nature. A few users expressed interest in trying the patterns themselves, or adapting them for modern use.
Geoffrey Litt created a personalized AI assistant using a simple, yet effective, setup. Leveraging a single SQLite database table to store personal data and instructions, the assistant uses cron jobs to trigger automated tasks. These tasks include summarizing articles from his RSS feed, generating to-do lists, and drafting emails. Litt's approach prioritizes hackability and customizability, allowing him to easily modify and extend the assistant's functionality according to his specific needs, rather than relying on a complex, pre-built system. The system relies heavily on LLMs like GPT-4, which interact with the structured data in the SQLite table to generate useful outputs.
Hacker News users generally praised the simplicity and hackability of the AI assistant described in the article. Several commenters appreciated the "dogfooding" aspect, with the author using their own creation for real tasks. Some discussed potential improvements and extensions, like using alternative databases or incorporating more sophisticated NLP techniques. A few expressed skepticism about the long-term viability of such a simple system, particularly for complex tasks. The overall sentiment, however, leaned towards admiration for the project's pragmatic approach and the author's willingness to share their work. Several users saw it as a refreshing alternative to overly complex AI solutions.
Clawtype version 2.1 is a compact, one-handed input device combining a chorded keyboard and mouse. Using only five keys, it allows for typing, mouse movement, clicking, scrolling, and modifiers like shift and control. The device connects via USB and its small size makes it portable and suitable for use in confined spaces. The creator demonstrates its functionality in a video, showcasing text entry and mouse control, highlighting its potential for efficient one-handed computing.
Commenters on Hacker News generally expressed interest in the Clawtype keyboard, praising its compact design and potential for ergonomic benefits, especially for those with limited desk space or RSI concerns. Several questioned the practicality and learning curve, wondering about its speed compared to traditional keyboards and the difficulty of mastering the chords. Some offered suggestions for improvement, like adding a wrist rest or thumb cluster, while others shared experiences with similar one-handed keyboards, highlighting the tradeoffs between portability and typing proficiency. A few users requested information on key remapping and software customization options. Overall, the response was a mix of curiosity, cautious optimism, and practical considerations regarding the device's usability.
Dmitry Grinberg created a remarkably minimal Linux computer using just three 8-pin chips: an ATtiny85 microcontroller, a serial configuration PROM, and a voltage regulator. The ATtiny85 emulates a RISC-V CPU, running a custom Linux kernel compiled for this simulated architecture. While performance is limited due to the ATtiny85's resources, the system is capable of interactive use, including running a shell and simple programs, demonstrating the feasibility of a functional Linux system on extremely constrained hardware. The project highlights clever memory management and peripheral emulation techniques to overcome the limitations of the hardware.
Hacker News users discussed the practicality and limitations of the 8-pin Linux computer. Several commenters questioned the usefulness of such a minimal system, pointing out its lack of persistent storage and limited I/O capabilities. Others were impressed by the technical achievement, praising the author's ingenuity in fitting Linux onto such constrained hardware. The discussion also touched on the definition of "running Linux," with some arguing that a system without persistent storage doesn't truly run an operating system. Some commenters expressed interest in potential applications like embedded systems or educational tools. The lack of networking capabilities was also noted as a significant limitation. Overall, the reaction was a mix of admiration for the technical feat and skepticism about its practical value.
Real Time Chess is a physical chessboard that eliminates the traditional turn-based structure. Pieces can be moved at any time, introducing a new layer of strategic complexity involving quick reactions, interruptions, and anticipating your opponent's moves in real-time. The board uses RFID tags in the pieces and Hall effect sensors under the board squares to track piece positions and movement, updating a digital display with the current game state. This allows for a dynamic and fast-paced chess experience where planning and execution happen concurrently.
HN commenters were generally impressed with the project, praising the technical execution and innovative concept of real-time chess. Some debated the strategic depth compared to traditional turn-based chess, with some suggesting it might devolve into a speed contest. Others discussed potential rule modifications, like piece capture delays or move cooldowns, to add more strategic elements. The creator's responsiveness to comments and willingness to incorporate feedback was also positively received, with several users offering specific suggestions for improvements and future development. A few commenters expressed skepticism about its long-term appeal, but the overall sentiment was one of enthusiastic curiosity and appreciation for the project's novelty.
In the 1980s, computer enthusiasts, particularly in Europe, could download games and other software from radio broadcasts. Shows like the UK's "Microdrive" transmitted audio data that could be captured using cassette recorders and then loaded onto computers like the Sinclair ZX Spectrum. This method, while slow and prone to errors, provided access to a wealth of software, often bypassing the cost of commercial cassettes. These broadcasts typically included instructions, checksums for error verification, and even musical interludes while longer programs loaded. The practice demonstrates an early form of digital distribution, leveraging readily available technology to share software within a community.
Hacker News commenters on the article about downloading games from the radio in the 1980s largely reminisce about their own experiences. Several users recalled using cassette recorders to capture data from radio broadcasts, mentioning specific shows like "Bits & Bytes" in the UK. Some shared technical details about the process, including the use of different audio frequencies representing 0s and 1s, and the challenges of getting a clean recording. A few commenters also pointed out the historical context, highlighting the prevalence of BBSs and the slow speeds of early modems as factors contributing to the popularity of radio broadcasts as a distribution method for games and software. Others discussed the variety of content available, including games, utilities, and even early forms of digital art. The discussion also touched upon regional variations in these practices, with some noting that the phenomenon was more common in Europe than in the US.
"The Book" (2021) podcast episode from 99% Invisible explores the history and cultural impact of The Real Book, a collection of illegally transcribed jazz lead sheets. Starting in the 1970s, this crowdsourced anthology became ubiquitous among jazz musicians, providing readily available arrangements of standards and lesser-known tunes. While copyright infringement plagued its existence, The Real Book democratized access to a vast musical repertoire, fostering improvisation, education, and the evolution of jazz. The episode examines the legal grey areas, the dedication of those who compiled and distributed the book, and its enduring influence on generations of musicians despite the eventual availability of legal alternatives.
Hacker News users discuss the ubiquity and impact of The Real Book, a collection of illegal jazz lead sheets. Commenters share anecdotes of its use in learning, performing, and teaching jazz, highlighting its role as a shared resource and common language among musicians. Some debate the ethics of its copyright-infringing nature, acknowledging the creators' lost revenue but also the book's contribution to jazz accessibility. The discussion also touches on the evolution of "fake books," the challenges of transcribing complex improvisations, and the book's occasional inaccuracies, with some commenters recommending newer, legal alternatives. Others share specific memories associated with The Real Book and its importance in their musical journeys. The practicality of the book, particularly its portability and spiral binding, is also praised.
Driven by a desire for better indoor lighting, a blogger attempted to recreate sunlight using high-CRI LEDs and a custom-built power supply. He meticulously measured the spectral power distribution of natural sunlight and then combined various LED wavelengths to approximate it. While the resulting light achieved a high CRI and looked visually similar to sunlight, the project was ultimately deemed too complex and expensive for practical home use, especially given the readily available full-spectrum bulbs offering a simpler, albeit less precise, solution. He concluded that accurately replicating sunlight's complexity is a challenging endeavor, even with advanced tools and knowledge.
HN commenters generally praised the author's ingenuity and thorough documentation. Several pointed out potential safety concerns regarding UV exposure and the high-powered LEDs, recommending specific filters and safety precautions. Some discussed alternative approaches using commercially available grow lights or different LED combinations for better spectral accuracy. Others debated the perceived psychological benefits of artificial sunlight and shared their personal experiences with similar projects or seasonal affective disorder. A few commenters delved deeper into the technical aspects, discussing color rendering index (CRI), spectral power distribution, and the challenges of replicating true sunlight. The overall sentiment was one of appreciation for the project's DIY spirit and the author's willingness to share their findings.
Someone modded a PlayStation 1 console by encasing it in a 3D-printed shell resembling a crab. Dubbed the "PlayStacean," this crustacean-inspired creation maintains full functionality while sporting articulated legs, claw-like controllers, and bulging eyestalks. The modder, known online as Emperor Yi, meticulously designed and printed the shell components, carefully integrating them with the original console hardware. The result is a quirky and playful reimagining of the classic gaming system.
Hacker News users generally found the PlayStation crustacean mod amusing and well-executed. Several commenters appreciated the craftsmanship and creativity, with one calling it "peak geek." Some discussed the practicality of the mod, noting the potential heat issues and the impracticality of actually using it. Others jokingly pondered the implications of "carcinization," referencing the evolutionary phenomenon where unrelated crustaceans evolve similar forms, and applying it to the PlayStation's transformation. A few commenters shared their own experiences modding consoles or creating unusual tech projects. The overall tone is lighthearted and appreciative of the whimsical nature of the modification.
Ken Shirriff created a USB interface for a replica of the iconic "keyset" used in Douglas Engelbart's 1968 "Mother of All Demos." This keyset, originally designed for chordal input, now sends USB keystrokes corresponding to the original chord combinations. Shirriff's project involved reverse-engineering the keyset's wiring, designing a custom circuit board to read the key combinations, and programming an ATmega32U4 microcontroller to translate the chords into USB HID keyboard signals. This allows the replica keyset, originally built by Bill Degnan, to be used with modern computers, preserving a piece of computing history.
Commenters on Hacker News largely expressed fascination with the project, connecting it to a shared nostalgia for early computing and the "Mother of All Demos." Several praised the creator's dedication and the ingenuity of using a Teensy microcontroller to emulate the historical keyset. Some discussed the technical aspects, including the challenges of replicating the original chord keyboard's behavior and the choice of using a USB interface. A few commenters reminisced about their own experiences with similar historical hardware, highlighting the significance of preserving and interacting with these pieces of computing history. There was also some discussion about the possibility of using this interface with modern emulators or virtual machines.
Ruth Tillman's blog post "All Clothing is Handmade (2022)" argues that the distinction between "handmade" and "machine-made" clothing is a false dichotomy. All clothing, whether crafted by an individual artisan or produced in a factory, involves extensive human labor throughout its lifecycle, from design and material sourcing to manufacturing, shipping, and retail. The post uses the example of a seemingly simple t-shirt to illustrate the complex network of human effort required, emphasizing the skills, knowledge, and labor embedded within each stage of production. Therefore, "handmade" shouldn't be understood as a category separate from industrial production but rather a recognition of the inherent human element present in all clothing creation.
Hacker News users generally agreed with the premise of the article—that all clothing involves human labor somewhere along the line, even if highly automated—and discussed the implications. Some highlighted the devaluing of human labor, particularly in the fashion industry, with "fast fashion" obscuring the effort involved. Others pointed out the historical context of clothing production, noting how technologies like the sewing machine shifted, rather than eliminated, human involvement. A compelling comment thread explored the distinction between "handmade" and "hand-crafted", suggesting that the latter implies artistry and design beyond basic construction, and questioned whether "machine-made" is truly a separate category. Some users argued the author's point was obvious, while others appreciated the reminder about the human cost of clothing. A few comments also touched on the environmental impact of clothing production and the need for more sustainable practices.
A high school team designed and built a space probe named Project Daedalus, launched via high-altitude balloon. The probe, constructed using off-the-shelf components and custom PCBs, collected data on temperature, pressure, radiation, magnetic fields, and air quality during its flight. It also captured images and video throughout the ascent and descent. Successful data retrieval was achieved after landing, showcasing the team's ability to create a functional space probe on a limited budget.
The Hacker News comments express admiration for the high school team's ambitious space probe project, with several commenters praising the students' ingenuity and technical skills. Some discuss the challenges of high-altitude ballooning, offering advice on potential improvements like using a GPS tracker with an external antenna and considering the impact of the balloon bursting on the probe's descent. Others inquire about specific aspects of the project, such as the choice of microcontroller and the method of image transmission. The overall sentiment is one of encouragement and interest in the team's future endeavors.
Sovereign Lumber advocates for a shift in the lumber industry towards localized, small-scale sawmills using sustainably harvested wood. The author argues that current lumber practices, reliant on large-scale operations and often unsustainable forestry, create economic fragility and environmental damage. By promoting smaller mills closer to the source of timber, communities can regain control over their lumber supply, create local jobs, and ensure more responsible forest management. This decentralized approach offers a path to greater resilience and economic independence, while fostering healthier forests and reducing transportation costs and carbon emissions.
Hacker News commenters generally expressed appreciation for the Sovereign Lumber project and its ethos. Several praised the detailed documentation and transparency, finding it refreshing and inspiring. Some questioned the long-term viability and scalability, particularly around sourcing enough appropriate logs and the potential environmental impact. Others discussed the potential for automation and the trade-offs between traditional craftsmanship and modern manufacturing techniques. The high price point was also a topic of discussion, with some arguing that it reflects the true cost of sustainable, locally sourced lumber, while others felt it limited accessibility. A few commenters shared personal anecdotes about woodworking and the challenges of finding high-quality lumber.
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.
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.
Kasey Hou designed and built a repairable, flatpack toaster using readily available components and off-the-shelf heating elements. The toaster's simple, modular design prioritizes ease of repair and disassembly. It features easily replaceable parts, accessible screws, and a clear labeling system. Hou's goal was to challenge the planned obsolescence prevalent in many consumer electronics by creating a toaster built to last and be easily fixed, reducing electronic waste. The project showcases a practical application of design for repairability and serves as an example of how product longevity can be intentionally designed into everyday appliances.
Commenters on Hacker News largely praised the repairable flatpack toaster project for its focus on right-to-repair and sustainability. Several expressed interest in purchasing such a product, highlighting the desire for longer-lasting appliances. Some discussed the potential challenges of sourcing parts and the complexities of achieving true repairability, while others debated the practicality of flatpacking a toaster versus other appliances. A few commenters also pointed out the existing availability of repairable toasters, suggesting the novelty lies primarily in the flatpack design and open-source nature of this project. There was some skepticism about the toaster's aesthetic appeal and the added assembly burden for consumers.
Dr. Drang poses a puzzle from the March 2025 issue of Scientific American, involving a square steel plate with a circular hole and a matching square-headed bolt. The challenge is to determine how much the center of the hole moves relative to the plate's center when the bolt is tightened, pulling the head flush against the plate. He outlines his approach using vector analysis, trigonometric identities, and small-angle approximations to derive a simplified solution. He compares this to a purely geometric approach, also presented in the magazine, and finds it both more elegant and more readily generalizable to different hole/head sizes.
HN users generally found the puzzle trivial, with several pointing out the quick solution of simply measuring the gap between the bolts to determine which one is missing. Some debated the practicality of such a solution, suggesting calipers would be necessary for accuracy, while others argued a visual inspection would suffice. A few commenters explored alternative, more complex approaches involving calculating the center of mass or using image analysis software, but these were generally dismissed as overkill. The discussion also briefly touched on manufacturing tolerances and the real-world implications of such a scenario.
Varun K. created a sprawling, unconventional video wall using 35 old Chromebooks, controlled by a single Raspberry Pi. He leveraged the Chromebooks' existing screens and minimal onboard processing, creating a distributed system where the Pi sends individual frames to each Chromebook over Wi-Fi. While acknowledging performance limitations like noticeable latency and occasional frame drops, Varun highlights the project's simplicity and low cost, achieved by repurposing readily available hardware and open-source software. The result is a functional, albeit quirky, video wall capable of displaying images, videos, and even simple animations across its unconventional canvas.
HN commenters were impressed by the author's ingenuity and dedication to the project, with several praising the "janky" yet functional nature of the setup. Some questioned the practicality and cost-effectiveness compared to purpose-built video wall solutions, noting potential issues with synchronization and performance. Others discussed alternative approaches, including using Raspberry Pis or older hardware, and offered suggestions for improvements like utilizing a more robust synchronization mechanism or exploring different software solutions. A few users shared their own experiences with similar projects, highlighting the challenges and rewards of DIY video walls. There was also some lighthearted banter about the "unhinged" nature of the project, embracing the unconventional approach.
GitSyncPad is a small, programmable keypad designed to streamline common Git actions. By pressing dedicated keys, users can perform tasks like adding files, committing changes, pushing to remote repositories, and pulling updates, eliminating the need for typing commands in the terminal. It's customizable, allowing users to configure key mappings for their specific workflows and integrate with various Git providers like GitHub, GitLab, and Bitbucket. The device connects via USB and aims to increase efficiency for developers who frequently interact with Git.
HN commenters generally express skepticism about the GitSyncPad's practicality. Some question the value proposition of a dedicated physical device for common Git commands, arguing that keyboard shortcuts and shell scripts are faster and more flexible. Concerns are raised about context switching and the limited functionality offered compared to a full terminal. A few express mild interest, particularly for educational or accessibility purposes, but overall the response is lukewarm, with many suggesting that the project seems like a solution in search of a problem. One commenter points out a similar existing project called Git remote.
The author describes creating a DNS sinkhole using an ESP32 microcontroller to combat doomscrolling. By intercepting DNS requests on their local network and redirecting specific domains (like social media sites) to a local web server, they effectively block access to these sites. The ESP32 runs a custom DNS server that returns a pre-defined IP address for targeted domains, leading devices to a blank webpage hosted on the ESP32 itself. This allows the author to curtail time spent on distracting websites without relying on browser extensions or more complex network configurations.
Hacker News users generally praised the project's simplicity and effectiveness for blocking distracting websites. Several commenters suggested improvements, such as using a pre-built DNS sinkhole list or implementing a local DNS server for better performance. Some discussed the ethics and potential downsides of blocking websites, particularly for families or in situations where access is necessary. Others offered alternative solutions, like using Pi-hole or modifying the hosts file. A few pointed out potential issues with the ESP32's limited resources and the importance of using a reliable power supply. The overall sentiment was positive, viewing the project as a clever, albeit somewhat limited, solution to a common problem.
The rising popularity of affordable vinyl-cutting machines, particularly the VinylCarver, is fueling a new trend of home record creation. Previously a niche pursuit limited by expensive professional equipment, the relative affordability and user-friendliness of these new devices allows music enthusiasts to cut their own records, be it original music, personalized mixes, or unique audio gifts. This democratization of vinyl production, championed by the VinylCarver's creator, Martin Bohme, is attracting both established artists experimenting with instant dubplates and newcomers eager to engage with the tangible and personal aspects of analog recording. The trend also reflects a broader resurgence of DIY culture within music, offering a more immediate and hands-on connection to the physical creation and distribution of music.
Hacker News users discuss the practicality and appeal of at-home vinyl cutting. Some express skepticism about the sound quality achievable with these machines, particularly regarding bass frequencies and dynamic range, compared to professionally mastered and pressed records. Others highlight the niche appeal for creating personalized gifts or dubplates for DJs. Several commenters note the potential legal issues surrounding copyright infringement if users cut copyrighted music. The discussion also touches upon the history of lathe-cut records and the limitations of the technology, with some pointing out that these machines are essentially improved versions of existing technology rather than a revolutionary advancement. A few users share personal experiences with similar machines, mentioning both the fun and the challenges involved. Finally, there's some debate about the "craze" mentioned in the article title, with some suggesting it's overstated.
Summary of Comments ( 135 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43894175
HN commenters largely agree with the author's positive experience with Pi-hole. Several share their own setups and tweaks, including using it with WireGuard, different blocklists, and emphasizing the importance of regex in crafting effective filters. Some discuss its limitations, like its inability to block ads served from the same server as content, and suggest supplementary tools like uBlock Origin. A few commenters raise privacy concerns regarding the query logs, while others mention alternative solutions such as NextDNS. The overall sentiment is positive, with many praising the simplicity and effectiveness of Pi-hole for reducing ads and improving privacy.
The Hacker News post "The Beauty of Having a Pi-Hole (2024)" has generated a fair number of comments discussing various aspects of using Pi-hole as a network-wide ad blocker.
Several commenters enthusiastically endorse Pi-hole, highlighting its effectiveness in blocking ads and trackers, leading to a faster and cleaner browsing experience. They also appreciate its role in improving privacy by preventing data collection. Some users share their long-term positive experiences with the software, mentioning its stability and ease of maintenance. The simplicity of setup and the minimal hardware requirements are also frequently praised.
A recurring theme in the comments is the educational benefit of Pi-hole. Users describe how it has helped them understand the prevalence of online tracking and the mechanics of DNS. Some mention using it as a teaching tool for children or family members, fostering awareness of online privacy and security.
However, the discussion isn't without its critical perspectives. Some commenters raise concerns about the potential for breaking certain websites due to overly aggressive blocking. Others caution against relying solely on Pi-hole for ad blocking and advocate for combining it with browser-based extensions like uBlock Origin for a more comprehensive approach. The possibility of DNS leaks and the importance of configuring upstream DNS servers securely are also mentioned.
A few commenters discuss alternative solutions to Pi-hole, such as AdGuard Home and NextDNS, comparing their features and performance. This sparks some debate about the relative merits of each option, with users sharing their preferences based on factors like ease of use, customization options, and privacy features.
The conversation also touches upon more technical aspects of Pi-hole, including the use of custom blocklists, the benefits of running it on a dedicated device like a Raspberry Pi, and strategies for troubleshooting common issues. Some users share their customized setups and offer tips for optimizing performance.
Finally, some comments delve into the broader implications of ad blocking, discussing the ethical considerations of circumventing revenue streams for websites and content creators. This leads to a nuanced discussion about the balance between user privacy and supporting the online ecosystem.