Bald Corder MK1

For element14 Present's 500th episode, three video hosts were challenged to make a build from the same components. The show producers consulted with the community and sent us each the same 5 parts. Our challenge was to produce something interesting from them.

The kit contained several sensors, an op-amp, and an MKR1000 Arduino board. The sensors kept making me think of a "sensing" device, which lead to the idea of building a functional Tricorder.

Without question, I wanted to build something that could make measurements. I did not want to build a prop-accurate Tricorder. However, as I spent time modeling, printing, and painting the pieces, I knew I needed some extra decoration. So I decided to make sure it could a) make measurements and b) fit the Star Trek universe.

The solution? I printed decals on a laser printer on vinyl sticker sheets and then used a vinyl cutter (Silhouette Cameo) to cut them out.

For a larger account, check out this article on the Bald Corder.