Summary
In this week’s episode, Hackaday Editors Elliot Williams and Tom Nardi start things off by getting excited about the recently announced 2026 Retrocomputing Challenge. From there the conversation will cover efforts to improve desktop 3D printing with lasers, an expensive grill with an ESP32 controller and an open source firmware, open source tools underground, and some impressive techniques to squeeze a bit more utility out of the common QR code. You’ll also hear about turning PVC pipes into flat stock, old school Radio Shack electronic kits, and VR soldering demos. Stick around to the end of the episode learn about the latest developments in over-the-counter hearing aids and the 1-bit CPU that’s enjoying an unexpected fandom nearly 50 years after its release. Check out the links if you want to follow along, and as always, tell us what you think about this episode in the comments! Episode 383 Show Notes: Mailbag:
- Alexander wrote in praise of buying ultrasonic knife guts. Donald Papp wrote up his experience with a hacked dental tool a few years back. Now you can get it over the counter. - Joey wrote in asking if we can add video/visuals to the Podcast. We complain about how difficult that would be. :)
- Mailbag still needs intro/outro music. Anyone want to whip something up? Send it to mailbag@hackaday.com . News: Interesting Hacks of the Week: Laser Layers For (Almost) Isotropicly Strong PrintsReverse Engineered Grill Controller Gets Open FirmwareHackaday Europe 2026: Open Source Hardware Goes Underground, LiterallyBuilding Custom Backyard Solar LightsCompress Links For Optimal QR CodesRadio Shack Toy Returns To Life Quick Hacks:
- Elliot’s Picks:
- Tom’s Picks: Please be kind and respectful to help make the comments section excellent. (Comment Policy)