WreckLab

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What is WreckLab?

  1. Wreck Lab is a wonderful way to accomplish a variety of goals:
    1. Familiarizing people with mechanical tools!
    2. Familiarizing people with basic electronics!
    3. Getting to know how things work (What's in the box?)
    4. Acquiring parts for use in other projects (JunkBots!)
    5. Introducing the concept of hacking/modifying.
      1. ie: A broken printer has all sorts of great parts that can be used long after its death.
  2. You grab some old/used/broken equipment that nobody cares for any more, brings some tools and people together, and take it all apart!)

Places to get equipment

  • Recycling Centers
  • Computer Shops
  • Freecycle
  • Craigslist
  • Ask your friends

~30 Minute Items:

  • CD / DVD Rom drives
  • Game Controllers
  • Remotes
  • Keyboard / Mice
  • Cell Phones

~1 Hour Items

  • Desktop / Laptop Computers
  • Printers
  • Game Consoles

Fun things to look for

  • Motors are great! (DC Motors are easier to utilize on the spot)
  • LEDs can often still be lit up
  • Capacitors
  • Gears!
  • IR LEDs

Tools you really should bring

  • Batteries
  • Battery Connectors
  • Alligator Clips
  • Wire Strippers
  • Assortment of Phillips, Straight, and Torx head screwdrivers
  • Big and small bins for parts
  • First Aid Kit
  • Safety Glasses

Tools that are great to have, but may not be necessary

  • Soldering Iron
  • Desoldering Pump
  • Solder
  • Wire (that will fit breadboard)
  • Breadboard

Tools you do not want to bring

  • Hammer. Especially if you're dealing with a younger group.