We live in a wonderful time for those who want to invent new things. Between 3D printers and DIY boards, now just about everyone has the tools to build any device. The DIY realm is exactly where the Edison can be used to its full potential.
What Will You Build?
Edison, like the name implies, is about invention. With the Intel Edison you can build almost anything. It’s powerful enough to handle any project. It has great features like a powerful processor and wireless networking built in. Connecting the device couldn’t be easier with a standard USB connection. However, you may need to pick up a power adapter in order to support the device freely.
Invention isn’t Easy
I will admit I was a little overwhelmed by what’s needed to take on a major project with the Edison. This isn’t your standard computer where you turn it on and go to work. You’ll have to flash the board and learn enough programming to be dangerous. But it’s part of the charm of this device. Much like the PC before it, Edison’s uses are endless but require a good amount of knowledge to tap into its power.
Edison vs. Tesla Raspberry Pi
While many users might be experimenting with their Raspberry Pi’s, the Intel Edison offers a lot of power in a small package. The Edison features Bluetooth, 802.11 WiFi and twice the ram while running at a lower voltage, making it ideal for IoT projects.
Shorter Circuits
For those who don’t want to spend too much time with electronics, you can purchase one of the Seeed Grove kits. These give users a jumpstart to what they want to make. These kits include everything from buttons to sensors, wires and even servos and LCD screens. The Seeed kits are ideal for those who have an idea ready but not the electronics background.
Some Cool Projects Already Exist With the Edison
Tweet Monkey
Tweet Monkey is a cool project from Jeremy Foster which combines the power of the Edison with a classic chiming monkey. The monkey chimes every time a tweet is received.
Worry Birds
Another cool project from Intel’s own research scientist Lucas Ainsworth were Origami birds which would read frightening news and information from around the world and try to take away the worry for you. Personally I would probably worry more if these birds would just be a warning me of bad news.
Just in Time for Halloween
With Halloween just around the corner it’s a good time to start your own haunted projects. Maybe you can add a motion sensor to detect people as they walk by, or build your own Ghostbuster proton pack or add a scary ghost to frighten some trick or treaters.
Intel Edison
The nice thing about a project board like this is the possibilities are unlimited. Want to reengineer your musical Christmas lights? Now you can. How about a flapping turkey when someone walks in? With the Intel Edison your projects are only limited by your imagination and your programing skills.
What would you build with your Edison? Let us know in the comments.
