When working with Arduino to program ATtinys I use this standard breadboard set up. The right half I use to program and the left side I use to test.   This system allows me to upload the boot loader and code and then quickly test the microcontroller for blink.  

  This is a force-sensitive resistor available from Adafruit for $7.00 USD.   Thru hole connections make this pressure sensor easy to adapt for eTextile use.     The sensor pad can be embedded into a textile or paper computing design.   You can also use conductive fabric and velostat to make your own pressure sensor. Just follow my video […]

This years Valentine’s Day tutorial appears more complex than Stabby Valentine or the Hello Kitty Punchy Valentine, but thats just because of the  fancy French Knots! Look beyond the embroidery and you’ll find a basic LED circuit with some hidden gems on how to sew with conductive thread, mark traces, and hide the circuitry. In the end the Heart Pillow […]

    Connecting the postive and negative terminals of the Maxbotix range finder to a Keystone Electronics Battery Holder.   more information on battery holder can be found on my 25 January 2013 blog post  

  Conductive Threads from Silverell, Mitsifuji, and Bekaert Stainless Technologies.     Depending upon my project I will select a conductive thread based upon it’s resistance and application method. Silverell 234/34 has changed its manufacturing process resulting in the thread tarnishing causing in increase in resistance. I no longer recommend this thread. Mitsifuji is no longer producing conductive thread. Bekaert […]

  Breadboards – whats going on behind that plastic mask?   Unfortunately most breadboards have a backing material so you can’t see the connection channels.   A side view close up showing the clips inside the breadboard which hold the jump wires in place gives you some idea of how the connection channels are laid out.   To really understand […]

  Whats on my workbench?     One of my favorite circuits! A Maxbotix Ultra Sonic Range Finder, ATtiny45, and a vibrating motor.  

    Comparison testing a variety of conductive threads available from ebay, etsy, and online retailers. Unfortunately, many of the the threads are not conductive and can not be used for eTextiles. I’ll start posting results next week.  

  From left to right Bamboo and Stainless, Silver taffeta, copper taffata, silver non-woven, velostat and bottom left silver lycra.   Alll from LessEMF in Albany, NY.