My Courses

  • Red Light Mask Redux: CurrentBody 2 and Shark CryoGlow Teardown

    Today, we’re taking a look inside two new LED red light therapy masks, the CurrentBody Series 2 and the Shark Cryoglow. Tools used in this teardown: First up is the CurrentBody Series 2 mask. It’s flexible like the previous version, but also more contoured to the shape of the face, especially under the chin.

  • Benchtop Power Supplies

    Benchtop Power Supplies

    In this video by @BeckyStern, we’re looking at benchtop power supplies – the versatile tool that provides adjustable and reliable DC power to your electronics projects. Becky covers the basics of how to use one, shows some example use cases, and lets you know what you should look for when shopping for your own. Full…

  • Neuroscience Made Easy with Spiker:Bit

    Neuroscience Made Easy with Spiker:Bit

    Meet Spiker:bit, the new micro:bit-compatible accessory for building your own projects that interface directly with the electrical signals from your body. Spiker:bit provides three basic ways to measure: electromyography (EMG), electrocardiography (ECG or EKG), and electroencephalography (EEG). I’ve been a Backyard Brains fan since I met Greg Gage at Maker Faire Detroit in 2011! To…

  • Introduction to Electric Motors

    Introduction to Electric Motors

    In this video by @BeckyStern, we’re exploring the fascinating world of electric motors. Motors are everywhere—from fans to cars to robots—and understanding how they work is a key skill for anyone diving into electronics or engineering. Becky covers the basics of motors, the different types, what they’re used for, and answers some common questions beginners…

  • 17 Tips for Electronics Beginners

    17 Tips for Electronics Beginners

    Today, I want to share the advice I wish I could go back and give beginner-me. If you’re just getting into DIY electronics—or even if you’ve been at it a while—these tips might save you some time and energy. Let’s start with tools. Buying fancy tools doesn’t replace practice… but sometimes, yes, the fancy version…

  • LED Mushrooms

    LED Mushrooms

    Today I’m sharing a super fun project that I collaborated on with a bartender friend of mine. He asked me to make a set of illuminated mushroom drink menus inspired by Alice in Wonderland. The idea is that he presents a mushroom, and when the recipient lifts the cap, text is revealed, letting them know…

  • How To Use a Multimeter

    How To Use a Multimeter

    Multimeters are one of the most essential tools for working with electronics. Learn how to use a multimeter to check continuity and to measure continuity, voltage, resistance, and current. Then, learn some troubleshooting tips and best practices. If you’re new to electronics or just want to brush up on how best to use this valuable…

  • Simple Backpack Sewing Pattern (with video)

    Simple Backpack Sewing Pattern (with video)

    Here’s how to make a super functional and stylish canvas backpack from scratch. Whether you need something for everyday carry or a weekend adventure, this bag is sturdy, customizable, and beginner-friendly. The final bag dimensions are 34cm tall by 24 cm wide by 12cm deep (13.5 inches tall by 9.5 inches wide by 5 inches…

  • Belkin Autotracking Stand Pro Teardown

    Belkin Autotracking Stand Pro Teardown

    Today, we’re taking a look inside the Belkin Auto-tracking Stand Pro. We’ll try it out, take it apart, and analyze the design and manufacturing of the circuitry inside. So here’s the Belkin Auto-Tracking Stand Pro. It’s got a simple but solid design. Snap your phone into the Magsafe connector, and the stand automatically rotates to…

  • The Best Connectors for DIY Electronics Projects

    The Best Connectors for DIY Electronics Projects

    If you are curious about connectors, but don’t know where to start, this video will quickly bring you up to speed. Explore the many different low-voltage connector types that you can use in your projects in this video by @BeckyStern Full article on DigiKey’s Maker.io – The Best Connectors for DIY Electronics Projects Related Posts…