Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ben Heck's Android-controlled pot-stirrer does (most of) the cooking for you]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/ben-heck-android-pot-stirrer-cooking-for-you/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/ben-heck-android-pot-stirrer-cooking-for-you/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/ben-heck-android-pot-stirrer-cooking-for-you/#comments Ben Heck's Android-controlled pot-stirrer does (most of) the cooking for you

Ben Heck is always thinking up gadgets that make life easier, from completely hands-free luggage to a sensor system for improved cycling safety. His latest mod is meant for those of us who have burnt Ramen a few too many times. His so-called Ben-Stur Remote Control Android app works with a pot-stirring device, freeing users to stray from the kitchen while their meal is cooking. The app works via Bluetooth, and the pot-stirrer consists of an actuator arm, a chip clip, a timing belt and, of course, a wooden spoon. Heck used a Google ADK and an Arduino Uno for the control mechanism that communicates between the app and the stirrer. In the tablet app, users can check their food's temperature and control the speed of the spoon's stirring. If that whets your appetite, click the source link for more info -- and check out our Maker Faire interview with Mr. Heckendorn himself.

Ben Heck's Android-controlled pot-stirrer does (most of) the cooking for you originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 May 2012 05:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid appandroid appsAndroidAppAndroidAppsArduinoarduino unoArduinoUnoBen Heckben heck showBen HeckendornBenHeckBenHeckendornBenHeckShowhackhacksmodmodsrobotRobotsTue, 22 May 2012 05:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Maker Faire Bay Area 2012, in pictures: 3D printers, unicorns, tesla coils and zombies (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/maker-faire-bay-area-2012-in-pictures-3d-printers-unicorns-t/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/maker-faire-bay-area-2012-in-pictures-3d-printers-unicorns-t/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/maker-faire-bay-area-2012-in-pictures-3d-printers-unicorns-t/#comments Maker Faire Bay Area 2012, in pictures: 3D printers, unicorns, tesla coils and zombies (video)

Did you miss Maker Faire Bay Area 2012? Did you go but want to relive the experience a little? Well look no further: we came, we saw, we conquered. As one of our friends acutely observed, you couldn't throw something this year without hitting a 3D printer. Below you'll find pictures of said 3D printers, but also unicorns, Tesla coils and yes, even zombies (!) -- all lovingly curated from the hundreds of shots we took at the event this past weekend. Craving something with a bit more meat? We've made a convenient list of our Maker Faire posts. Once you're done digesting that, hit the break for our lovely video montage.

Gallery: Maker Faire Bay Area 2012

Continue reading Maker Faire Bay Area 2012, in pictures: 3D printers, unicorns, tesla coils and zombies (video)

Maker Faire Bay Area 2012, in pictures: 3D printers, unicorns, tesla coils and zombies (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 May 2012 02:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D printer3D printers3dPrinter3dPrintersben HeckBenHeckElectric ImpElectric Motor WerksElectricImpElectricMotorWerksMaker FaireMaker Faire 2012Maker Faire Bay AreaMaker Faire Bay Area 2012MakerBotMakerFaireMakerFaire2012MakerFaireBayAreaMakerFaireBayArea2012raspberry piRaspberryPirobotrobot petting zooRobotPettingZoorobotsTesla coilTesla coilsTeslaCoilTeslaCoilsunicornunicornsvideozombiezombiesTue, 22 May 2012 02:33:00 EST<![CDATA[The Engadget Interview: Ben Heck talks Raspberry Pi at Maker Faire (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/the-engadget-interview-ben-heck-talks-raspberry-pi-at-maker-fai/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/the-engadget-interview-ben-heck-talks-raspberry-pi-at-maker-fai/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/the-engadget-interview-ben-heck-talks-raspberry-pi-at-maker-fai/#comments The Engadget Interview: Ben Heck talks Raspberry Pi at Maker Faire (video)

It's really no surprise that we bumped into the legendary Ben Heck at Maker Faire Bay Area 2012. Still, he was kind enough to give us a few minutes of his time. We talked about the Raspberry Pi, robot luggage, portable 3D printers, pinball machines, pretzels and cheese curds -- oh my! Just take a look at our video interview and don't miss the outtakes at the end.

The Engadget Interview: Ben Heck talks Raspberry Pi at Maker Faire (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 May 2012 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D printer3d printers3dPrinter3dPrintersBen HeckBen HeckendornBenHeckBenHeckendornBenjamin HeckendornBenjaminHeckendorncheese curdsCheeseCurdsinterviewMaker FaireMaker Faire 2012Maker Faire Bay AreaMaker Faire Bay Area 2012MakerFaireMakerFaire2012MakerFaireBayAreaMakerFaireBayArea2012Nilay PatelNilayPatelpinball machinepinball machinesPinballMachinePinballMachinesportable 3D printerPortable3dPrinterPretzelsRaspberry PiRaspberryPirobot luggageRobotLuggagevideoMon, 21 May 2012 16:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck's wireless luggage will draw R2-D2 comparisons, stares from the TSA]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/19/ben-hecks-wireless-luggage-will-draw-r2-d2-comparisons-stares/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/19/ben-hecks-wireless-luggage-will-draw-r2-d2-comparisons-stares/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/19/ben-hecks-wireless-luggage-will-draw-r2-d2-comparisons-stares/#comments ImageRolling your luggage through the airport with your arms? There's got to be a better way! If you're a lucky fan of everyone's favorite console modder Ben Heck, you could win the freshly-built hands-free robotic luggage lovingly nicknamed "Doug." Or you can just catch the latest episode of Heck's show to figure out how to build an obedient wheeled suitcase of your very own -- and wink at all of the requisite R2-D2 references. Old Doug here will follow its master (whoever happens to be holding its transmitter) up to 20 feet away, speeding up when he or she is further away and stopping when within a foot. The 'bot's desire to follow is fully disabled when you pick it up off the ground. Click the source link, if this happens to be the luggage you're looking for.

Ben Heck's wireless luggage will draw R2-D2 comparisons, stares from the TSA originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 23:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckben heck showBenHeckBenHeckShowdoughackluggagemodremote controlRemoteControlrobotrobot luggageRobotLuggagethe ben heck showTheBenHeckShowMon, 19 Mar 2012 23:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck guts an iCade to build iPhone gamepad, salutes CES in the process (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/ben-heck-guts-an-icade-to-build-iphone-gamepad-salutes-ces-in-t/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/ben-heck-guts-an-icade-to-build-iphone-gamepad-salutes-ces-in-t/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/ben-heck-guts-an-icade-to-build-iphone-gamepad-salutes-ces-in-t/#comments While the majority of the tech industry prepares to go all in on this week's CES madness, a certain Mr. Ben Heck's been busying himself with an homage to the Vegas event. In the spirit of consumer electronics, he's gone ahead and retrofitted a gamepad enclosure to Apple's iPhone. Using a modified circuit board taken from an iCade, Heck was able to craft a plastic enclosure and buttons, made with a 3D printer, to neatly surround the device and borrowed silicon. Click on past the break to watch Ben walkthrough what he does best, which is to say, not gaming.

Continue reading Ben Heck guts an iCade to build iPhone gamepad, salutes CES in the process (video)

Ben Heck guts an iCade to build iPhone gamepad, salutes CES in the process (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Apple iPhoneAppleIphoneBen HeckBenHeckcesces 2012Ces2012ces2012bestofgamepadgaminghackiCadeiPhonemobilepostcrossmodvideoWed, 11 Jan 2012 12:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck delivers holiday cheer to gamer with modded macro controller]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/ben-heck-delivers-holiday-cheer-to-gamer-with-modded-macro-contr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/ben-heck-delivers-holiday-cheer-to-gamer-with-modded-macro-contr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/ben-heck-delivers-holiday-cheer-to-gamer-with-modded-macro-contr/#comments Patrick Crowley Benjamin J. Heckendorn is no stranger to game pads designed for people with disabilities, but the macro controller he just whipped up for Patrick Crowley (pictured above) might be his most impressive accessibility hack yet. On the latest episode of his show the modding extraordinaire crafts a breakout box that allows a complex set of commands to be triggered with just the touch of a button or foot switch. The box at the heart of the project is powered by a PIC microcontroller that takes inputs from a series of modular switches (up to eight) and turns them into virtual button presses that are fed to an Xbox 360 through a standard controller. In addition to being able to swap in eight different inputs, each one can be programmed to perform a different macro. We won't ruin all of the fun -- check out the PR and full episode in the source link to watch everything from Ben Heck's holiday epiphany through the final testing.

Continue reading Ben Heck delivers holiday cheer to gamer with modded macro controller

Ben Heck delivers holiday cheer to gamer with modded macro controller originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessibilityaccessibility controllerAccessibilityControllerben heckBenHeckbenjamin heckendornbenjamin j. heckendornBenjaminHeckendornBenjaminJ.Heckendorncontrollerhackhacksmacro controllerMacroControllermodpatrick crowleyPatrickCrowleythe ben heck showTheBenHeckShowxboxxbox 360Xbox360Wed, 21 Dec 2011 18:22:00 EST<![CDATA[SupaBoy portable SNES, the most fun you can have without a soldering iron]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/supaboy-portable-snes-the-most-fun-you-can-have-without-a-solde/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/supaboy-portable-snes-the-most-fun-you-can-have-without-a-solde/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/supaboy-portable-snes-the-most-fun-you-can-have-without-a-solde/#comments
We previewed Hyperkin's SupaBoy back in the summer and loved the idea of toting 'round original SNES games without resorting to Ben Heck-style crafting. The handheld takes full-size cartridges, packs a 3.5-inch screen and a battery that's disappointingly rated for just two point five hours (best keep a power cable handy). It'll also double as a home console: there's an AV-out port and slots for two classic controllers for when you wanna kick it old-school. It's reportedly compatible with titles like Mario World, A Link to the Past and Starwing Starfox, but who needs them when we've got a mint condition copy of Tetris Attack at home? It'll cost you $80 and is available from Amazon as of yesterday -- we suggest you get to practicing blowing the dirt from the connectors, since you'll be doing a lot of it soon.

Continue reading SupaBoy portable SNES, the most fun you can have without a soldering iron

SupaBoy portable SNES, the most fun you can have without a soldering iron originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 16:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A Link to the PastALinkToThePastBen HeckBenHeckHackHackingHyperkinHyperkin SupaBoyHyperkinSupaboyModdingNintendoPortable ConsolePortable SNESPortable Super NintendoPortableConsolePortableSnesPortableSuperNintendoRetroRetro GamingRetroGamingSNESStarfoxStarwingSupaBoySuper Mario KartSuper Mario WorldSuper NintendoSuperMarioKartSuperMarioWorldSuperNintendoThe Legend of Zelda: A Link to the PastTheLegendOfZelda:ALinkToThePastFri, 02 Dec 2011 16:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck gets into the pinball business for real, pre-orders begin in January]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/ben-heck-gets-into-the-pinball-business-for-real-pre-orders-beg/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/ben-heck-gets-into-the-pinball-business-for-real-pre-orders-beg/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/25/ben-heck-gets-into-the-pinball-business-for-real-pre-orders-beg/#comments Ben Heck's Zombie Adventureland Benjamin J. Heckendorn, the name likely conjures images of shrunken gaming consoles and specially modified controllers. But the modder extraordinaire also has an unapologetic love for pinball. He completed his first flipper project in March of 2007, a Bill Paxton-themed machine loaded with classic quotes from the actor. Then in 2011, he undertook an amazingly complex game based on the beloved, meandering (and highly overrated) show Lost. Now he's teaming up with John Popadiuk, a renowned maker of limited run pinball machines, to offer his chrome-balled gaming visions to the public. The two are working together on a creation called Ben Heck's Zombie Adventureland. All the artwork will be hand-drawn and each machine hand-assembled. How many will be made and how much it'll cost for the privilege of putting one of these in your home or arcade (or home arcade) is still a mystery, but pre-orders begin in January and you can bet they'll sell out quickly.

Ben Heck gets into the pinball business for real, pre-orders begin in January originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckben hecks zombie adventurelandBenHeckBenHecksZombieAdventurelandbenjamin heckendornbenjamin j. heckendornBenjaminHeckendornBenjaminJ.Heckendorncustom pinballCustomPinballgamingjohn PopadiukJohnPopadiukpinballpinball inventorpinball machinepinball machinesPinballInventorPinballMachinePinballMachineszombie adventurelandZombieAdventurelandTue, 25 Oct 2011 13:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Anything your regular alarm clock can do, Ben Heck's can do better]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/anything-your-regular-alarm-clock-can-do-ben-hecks-can-do-bett/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/anything-your-regular-alarm-clock-can-do-ben-hecks-can-do-bett/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/anything-your-regular-alarm-clock-can-do-ben-hecks-can-do-bett/#comments
If it's a fight between any gadget, console or mode of transportation and Mr. Benjamin Heckendorn, your money should be on the latter every single time. To kick-start the second season of his eponymous show, the man they call Heck takes on difficult to program alarm clocks with their non-standard arrays of tiny buttons and annoying flashes. His solution? Build a universal model with a single rotary wheel control that's so easy to use a pensioner wearing oven mitts could do it. You can check out the episode in its full visual glory after the break.

Continue reading Anything your regular alarm clock can do, Ben Heck's can do better

Anything your regular alarm clock can do, Ben Heck's can do better originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 18:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alarm clockAlarmClockBen HeckBenHeckbenjamin heckendornBenjaminHeckendornthe ben heck showTheBenHeckShowvideoTue, 11 Oct 2011 18:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Growing Up Geek: Ben Heck]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/growing-up-geek-ben-heck/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/growing-up-geek-ben-heck/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/growing-up-geek-ben-heck/#comments Welcome to Growing Up Geek, an ongoing feature where we take a look back at our youth and tell stories of growing up to be the nerds that we are. Today we have Hacker Extraordinaire (and host of his own show), Benjamin J. Heckendorn!

As a kid growing up in Richland Center, WI, I sometimes had to be extra creative in finding things to occupy my time, and my creativity naturally gravitated toward all things technology. Soldering, erector sets and deconstructing toys were the epicenter of my young life. Taking things apart to find out how they worked was essentially a rite of passage for me to becoming the geeky man I am today.

I got my first taste of programming in elementary school on a collection of even-then old Apple II's, but I really got into it wholesale when, at age 11, I got my first computer - an Atari 800. While still ancient for the time, I did a lot of programming on it and learned a lot of fundamentals that are useful to this day.

Continue reading Growing Up Geek: Ben Heck

Growing Up Geek: Ben Heck originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBenHeckbenjamin heckendornBenjaminHeckendorndiyhackhackerhackingMon, 10 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck cooks up proximity sensor for cyclists, still no substitute for keeping eyes open]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/ben-heck-cooks-up-proximity-sensor-for-cyclists-still-no-substi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/ben-heck-cooks-up-proximity-sensor-for-cyclists-still-no-substi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/ben-heck-cooks-up-proximity-sensor-for-cyclists-still-no-substi/#comments

Ben Heck's been busy -- again. In the latest episode of his bi-weekly show he puts his considerable brain power to work on cycle safety. He uses Parallax ping sensors connected to an Arduino to measure whether you're in any danger from nearby obstacles and traffic. The red and green LED indicators are hooked up to ambient light sensors so they don't blind you while riding at night -- looks like Mr. Heck's thought of everything. This week's episode also includes more secrets behind the prolific modder's Android APK-based baby seat. Check out both projects after the break.

Continue reading Ben Heck cooks up proximity sensor for cyclists, still no substitute for keeping eyes open

Ben Heck cooks up proximity sensor for cyclists, still no substitute for keeping eyes open originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 21:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArduinoBen Heckben heck showBenHeckBenHeckShowbicyclecyclecycle safetyCycleSafetycyclistcyclistselectronicsmodproximity sensorProximitySensorsafetyTue, 27 Sep 2011 21:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Wooden Sega Saturn laptop sits nicely on your antique dresser]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/wooden-sega-saturn-laptop-sits-nicely-on-your-antique-dresser/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/wooden-sega-saturn-laptop-sits-nicely-on-your-antique-dresser/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/16/wooden-sega-saturn-laptop-sits-nicely-on-your-antique-dresser/#comments
If there's one thing better than a new Ben Heck mod, it's seeing something his army of apprentices has cooked up. This time, Turkish modder c_mon has produced a striking wooden Sega Saturn laptop. It's got a 5-inch LCD screen pulled from a Sony PSOne in the lid, built-in speakers and a fan to keep things cool in the enclosure. The case copies the mould lines from the original Saturn, with the natty addition of an electroluminescent wire that puts us in mind of Tron when the device is running. Keen-eyed visitors to our gallery below will notice that the laptop's lid actually bears the logo of Saturn automobiles -- it's deliberate as the modder couldn't get his CNC (Computer Numerical Control) cutter to play nicely with Sega's curved logo. Incorrect marque or not, we can all agree it's much more handsome than previous efforts.

Gallery: Modded Wooden Sega Saturn Laptop

Wooden Sega Saturn laptop sits nicely on your antique dresser originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 02:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ben HeckBen Heck ForumBenHeckBenHeckForumBenjamin HeckendornBenjaminHeckendornCNCCNC CutCncCutc_monLCDModModdding CommunityModddingCommunityModderModdersModding-CommunityModsSaturnSegaSega SaturnSega Saturn LaptopSegaSaturnSegaSaturnLaptopSony PSOneSonyPsoneWooden LaptopWooden Sega Saturn LaptopWoodenLaptopWoodenSegaSaturnLaptopFri, 16 Sep 2011 02:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Switchblade Adroit controller for gamers with disabilities]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/switchblade-adroit-controller-for-gamers-with-disabilities/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/switchblade-adroit-controller-for-gamers-with-disabilities/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/switchblade-adroit-controller-for-gamers-with-disabilities/#comments The Razer-sharp "Switchblade" was first pulled on us at CES, and since then we've been prodded by a new product under the same sharp name from Evil Controllers and AbleGamers. Released as part of the "Adroit" line for gamers with disabilities, the 19-port controller comes standard with two joysticks and allows for personal positioning of sticks, buttons and rumble packs dependent on individual need. Originally designed for Xbox 360, it can be adapted for playing on PCs and PS3s, as well. Although there's no official launch date or price, Thrifty Nerd says the device will set you back "a few hundred dollars" -- probably a value compared to calling Hack-King Ben Heck.

Switchblade Adroit controller for gamers with disabilities originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ablegamersadroitben heckBenHeckcontrollercontrollersdisabilitydisabledevil controllersEvilControllersgamergamersgamingPCPS3switchbladeXbox360Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck tackles Android ADK, whips up car trip-simulating baby seat]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/ben-heck-tackles-android-adk-whips-up-car-trip-simulating-baby/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/ben-heck-tackles-android-adk-whips-up-car-trip-simulating-baby/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/ben-heck-tackles-android-adk-whips-up-car-trip-simulating-baby/#comments Ben Heck car seat simulator ADK We've been wondering what would happen if the infinitely resourceful Ben Heck got his hands on the powerful Android ADK. Thankfully, in the most recent episode of the accomplished modder's show, our curiosity is satiated. The crafty Wisconsinite tackles a reader request -- to recreate the soothing motion of a car ride and help put a three-month-old baby to sleep. Mr. Heck uses the accelerometer in his phone to record the bounce and sway from the backseat as he drives around. He then draws up some code that will feed that data to the Arduino-powered ADK and move a series of servos that will tilt and shake a child's car seat. Sadly, the completion of the project will have to wait till the next exciting episode, but by the end of the installment embedded after the break you do get to see a scale model. What are you waiting for? Click that little read more link for PR and video... you know you want to.

Continue reading Ben Heck tackles Android ADK, whips up car trip-simulating baby seat

Ben Heck tackles Android ADK, whips up car trip-simulating baby seat originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 23:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adkandroidandroid adkAndroidAdkarduinoben heckBenHeckdiydo it yourselfDoItYourselfgooglehackmobilepostcrossmodmotion simulationMotionSimulationsimulationMon, 22 Aug 2011 23:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck splits and condenses a pair of Xbox 360 controllers for the disabled]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/09/ben-heck-splits-and-condenses-a-pair-of-xbox-360-controllers-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/09/ben-heck-splits-and-condenses-a-pair-of-xbox-360-controllers-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/09/ben-heck-splits-and-condenses-a-pair-of-xbox-360-controllers-for/#comments Ben Heck That crafty Ben Heck is always up to something, like whipping up an Xbox 360 disk changer for the laziest of gamers. But, on the latest episode of his hacking and modding show, Mr. Heck is back to helping those in need and crafting accessible controllers for the disabled. During the 15-minute hackathon, the modder extraordinaire creates two different Xbox 360 remotes -- a split model for those with limited arm motion, and a one-handed version for people with use of only one set of digits. If you've got a smidgen of soldering experience (and ideally access to a CNC) these projects are probably even simple enough to tackle yourself. Check out the entire episode and full PR after the break.

Continue reading Ben Heck splits and condenses a pair of Xbox 360 controllers for the disabled

Ben Heck splits and condenses a pair of Xbox 360 controllers for the disabled originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 04:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessibilityaccessibility controllerAccessibilityControllerben heckBenHeckcontroller modControllerModdisableddiygame controllerGameControllergaminghackmodthe ben heck showTheBenHeckShowvideoxboxxbox 360xbox 360 controllerXbox360Xbox360ControllerTue, 09 Aug 2011 04:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck's Xbox 360 automatic disc changer mod targets lazy gamers (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/12/ben-hecks-xbox-360-automatic-disc-changer/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/12/ben-hecks-xbox-360-automatic-disc-changer/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/12/ben-hecks-xbox-360-automatic-disc-changer/#comments The latest creation from modder extraordinaire Benjamin J. Heckendorn? This mashup of an Xbox 360, Maker Faire-provided Arduino board and a Sony CD changer lets gamers play their entire collection without ever needing to leave the couch again. The latest episode of The Ben Heck Show takes viewers through the build process in a bit under 19 minutes, but leaves the device still needing a bit of polish in the end. Sponsor element14 is offering motivated viewers a chance to with this and finish it off properly as they see fit, removing the hassle of L.A. Noire disc swaps once and for all without buying a PS3. The video, and press release with details on how to win the as-yet unfinished project for yourself, can be found after the break.

Continue reading Ben Heck's Xbox 360 automatic disc changer mod targets lazy gamers (video)

Ben Heck's Xbox 360 automatic disc changer mod targets lazy gamers (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 08:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arduinoautomaticben heckBenHeckcd changerCdChangerdisc changerDiscChangermodthe ben heck showTheBenHeckShowxbox 360Xbox360xobxTue, 12 Jul 2011 08:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck crafts Atari-styled Xbox-360, takes us back to the '70s]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/ben-heck-crafts-atari-styled-xbox-360-takes-us-back-to-the-70s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/ben-heck-crafts-atari-styled-xbox-360-takes-us-back-to-the-70s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/ben-heck-crafts-atari-styled-xbox-360-takes-us-back-to-the-70s/#comments Our man Ben Heck has done it again -- this time, he's taken modding to a new, retro level. Atari requested that Heck create a modded system as a promo for its new games, so our man teamed up with element14 and did what he does best. The master of mods has gutted an Xbox 360 and shoved it into a one-of-a-kind Atari 2600-esque case that he calls 'Xbox 360 1977 Edition.' The system's got switches from old Atari systems had that control disc-ejection and controller synchronization. Just like the classic Ataris, Heck's portable gaming laptop's got wood panels and a black finish -- and it's huge. The best part of this mod? Well, playing Street Fighter on Xbox 360 hidden inside of what would be a modern version of a classic like Atari is pretty cool, in our opinion. As cool a classic like the Virtual Boy though? We'll leave that for you to decide. Oh, and be sure to hit the source link to watch the mod get formed in 23 glorious minutes.

Ben Heck crafts Atari-styled Xbox-360, takes us back to the '70s originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1970s70satariatari 2600Atari2600benben heckBenHeckheckheckendornlcdmodmodificationportablepromotionvirtual boyVirtualBoyxboxxbox 360xbox 360 1977 editionxbox 360 modXbox360Xbox3601977EditionXbox360ModTue, 22 Mar 2011 16:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck constructs military-grade, self-contained PlayStation 3 suitcase (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/21/ben-heck-constructs-military-grade-self-contained-playstation-3/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/21/ben-heck-constructs-military-grade-self-contained-playstation-3/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/21/ben-heck-constructs-military-grade-self-contained-playstation-3/#comments If you caught the latest episode of The Ben Heck Show, then you no doubt saw this era's modding mastermind piece together a PS3 console suitable for use in the wilds of Afghanistan. The military-grade portable gaming system was designed and built for a couple working with the military overseas, and it's Pelican's iM2600 Store Case there on the outside keeping things safe and secure from flying shrapnel. As Ben always does, he managed to carefully place an entire PS3 console deep within the confines of the enclosure, and he even threw in an integrated LCD into the lid to prevent any additional external hookups. Generator equals gametime, as they say. Head on past the break for the latest episode, which shows the play-by-play on how it was constructed.

Update: Turns out the folks that Ben built this case for are now taking matters into their own hands. Currently based in Afghanistan, Erica and Kris have founded Rugged Outdoor Gaming Units, Etc (R.O.G.U.E.) in order to build and sell similar hardcore gaming enclosures, or PeliStations. They're aiming for an early spring release, and we'll definitely be keeping an eye on them.

Continue reading Ben Heck constructs military-grade, self-contained PlayStation 3 suitcase (video)

Ben Heck constructs military-grade, self-contained PlayStation 3 suitcase (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 01:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBenHeckcaseelement 14Element14hackmiliarymodmoddermoddingPelicanplaystationplaystation 3Playstation3ps3ruggedsonyvideoTue, 21 Dec 2010 01:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck modifies Toshiba Satellite for cramped flights, throws TSA the peace sign (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/07/ben-heck-modifies-toshiba-satellite-for-cramped-flights-throws/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/07/ben-heck-modifies-toshiba-satellite-for-cramped-flights-throws/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/07/ben-heck-modifies-toshiba-satellite-for-cramped-flights-throws/#comments So what has technology modder extraordinaire Benjamin J. Heckendorn come up with for his Ben Heck Show this week? Why, a laptop designed to fit on a airplane tray table, thanks to a special swiveling screen. The Coach Section Laptop is a modified Toshiba Satellite with aluminum arms affixed to either side, with slots down the middle upon which the screen's pegs slide. Thumbscrews then tighten to keep the display in place in either of two modes: the standard laptop configuration, or the floating display-over-keyboard setup you see immediately above. Ben himself admits that we're looking at a rough proof of concept for now, but we imagine he'll have a seamless variant on eBay before long -- just as soon as he can figure out where to put that precariously dangling display cord. Video after the break.

Continue reading Ben Heck modifies Toshiba Satellite for cramped flights, throws TSA the peace sign (video)

Ben Heck modifies Toshiba Satellite for cramped flights, throws TSA the peace sign (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Nov 2010 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ben Heckben heck showBen HeckendornBenHeckBenHeckendornBenHeckShowbenjamin heckendornBenjaminHeckendorncoach section laptopCoachSectionLaptophackhackslaptopmodmoddedmodsvideoSun, 07 Nov 2010 23:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Ben Heck Show helps you build your very own Portal Shirt]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/latest-ben-heck-show-helps-you-build-your-very-own-portal-shirt/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/latest-ben-heck-show-helps-you-build-your-very-own-portal-shirt/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/latest-ben-heck-show-helps-you-build-your-very-own-portal-shirt/#comments Considering that you're an avid viewer of The Ben Heck Show, we're assuming this is old news to you and yours. On the off-chance that you missed the last episode, we're here to rope you back into reality. Embedded past the break is a video filled with love, laughter and legitimate instructions on building your very own Portal t-shirt. According to Benjamin, the system consists of a front-mounted LCD, pocket-mounted battery pack and rear-mounted camera, and naturally, it's being released just prior to Halloween. You now know exactly what you have to do.

Continue reading Latest Ben Heck Show helps you build your very own Portal Shirt

Latest Ben Heck Show helps you build your very own Portal Shirt originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBenHeckdiygaminghackmodportalshirtt-shirtthe ben heck showTheBenHeckShowvideowearablewearablesTue, 26 Oct 2010 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck makes Xbox 360 'Slim' portable, still won't make a briefcase feel fat (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/12/ben-heck-makes-xbox-360-slim-portable-still-wont-make-a-brie/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/12/ben-heck-makes-xbox-360-slim-portable-still-wont-make-a-brie/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/12/ben-heck-makes-xbox-360-slim-portable-still-wont-make-a-brie/#commentsBen Heck makes Xbox 360 'Slim' portable, still won't make a briefcase feel fat As always in the world of handmade portable consoles, the word "slim" is a very, very relative term. Appropriately you wouldn't call Ben Heck's latest creation svelte by any means, but it is considerably smaller than his 2009 version, 1.5-inches skinnier and an inch shorter. Despite that it now has an internal power supply and is even quieter than before. The system's touch power and eject buttons work as expected here, and up top is a 17-inch Gateway LCD that manages a full 720p's worth of pixels. Want one? The model pictured above is being given away as part of a contest on The Ben Heck Show, but he's making two others that are available to, you know, purchase if you have the means.

Continue reading Ben Heck makes Xbox 360 'Slim' portable, still won't make a briefcase feel fat (video)

Ben Heck makes Xbox 360 'Slim' portable, still won't make a briefcase feel fat (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBenHeckdiyhackmodportable consolePortableConsolevideoxboxxbox 360Xbox360Tue, 12 Oct 2010 10:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Hand-crank flashlight +soldering + Ben Heck = man-powered HTC EVO 4G charger]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/05/hand-crank-flashlight-soldering-ben-heck-man-powered-htc-ev/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/05/hand-crank-flashlight-soldering-ben-heck-man-powered-htc-ev/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/05/hand-crank-flashlight-soldering-ben-heck-man-powered-htc-ev/#commentsHand-crank flashlight + microUSB cable + soldering + Ben Heck = man-powered HTC EVO 4G charger Batteries die, and when your phone has a WiMAX antenna plus dual cameras and a gigantic screen, well, those batteries tend to meet their maker sooner than later. Enter hacker extraordinaire Ben Heck with a simple and cheap solution: a hand-powered charger. Ben took an inexpensive flashlight with a crank on it, disassembled it, and ran the leads from the internal motor to his HTC EVO 4G. The exciting (or at least excited) video below is proof that it works, but we're wondering which would die first: the 4G's battery, or your arm after cranking on this thing for an hour or two.

Continue reading Hand-crank flashlight +soldering + Ben Heck = man-powered HTC EVO 4G charger

Hand-crank flashlight +soldering + Ben Heck = man-powered HTC EVO 4G charger originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckben heckendornBenHeckBenHeckendorncellphone chargerCellphoneChargerchargercrankcrank flashlightCrankFlashlightdiyevo 4gEvo4gflashlighthackharbor freightHarborFreighthtcvideoTue, 05 Oct 2010 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[The Ben Heck Show launching next week, right into your regular viewing rotation]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/08/the-ben-heck-show-launching-next-week-right-into-your-regular-v/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/08/the-ben-heck-show-launching-next-week-right-into-your-regular-v/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/08/the-ben-heck-show-launching-next-week-right-into-your-regular-v/#comments Oh, Ben -- how far you've come. But now that you're about to star in your very own web show, don't ever forget that we had you first. Pleasantries aside, we couldn't be more thrilled to hear that the man responsible for pushing the art of modding into the mainstream is set to host a bi-weekly web TV show on the subject. The Ben Heck Show will see its first episode published on September 13th, where Ben showcases a mod of a controller for an avid gamer with a serious disability. Future episodes will highlight "projects inspired by the modder community, ranging from mods for a particular need to gadgets that help electronic enthusiasts work and play faster," which means that you and yours can send in ideas that may end up on the show. Head on past the break for a trailer, and be sure to pencil this one in right beside our own Engadget Show when it comes time for viewing pleasure.

P.S. - Congrats, Ben!

Continue reading The Ben Heck Show launching next week, right into your regular viewing rotation

The Ben Heck Show launching next week, right into your regular viewing rotation originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ben Heckben heck showBen HeckendornBenHeckBenHeckendornBenHeckShowcontentdiyinternet tvInternetTvmodmoddermoddingprogrammingshowtvvideoWed, 08 Sep 2010 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Nimbus 64: the latest in a long line of gorgeous portable N64 mods]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/07/nimbus-64-the-latest-in-a-long-line-of-gorgeous-portable-n64-mo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/07/nimbus-64-the-latest-in-a-long-line-of-gorgeous-portable-n64-mo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/07/nimbus-64-the-latest-in-a-long-line-of-gorgeous-portable-n64-mo/#comments For whatever reason, the last great game console to utilize a cartridge over a disc is finding itself in yet another portable form factor, and of course, the Nimbus 64 has been crafted by one of Ben Heck's most loyal followers. One cndowning is responsible for this beaut, and it's actually his second homemade portable; this particular miniaturized Nintendo 64 uses a custom vacuum formed case, D-pads and control sticks from used Game Cube controllers, a Zenith PS1 display and plenty of nuts and bolts that only the hardcore modders in attendance would understand. Per usual, we'd recommend heading down to the links below for more details and images, the latter of which are likely to make you exceedingly envious of the DIY skills exhibited here.

Nimbus 64: the latest in a long line of gorgeous portable N64 mods originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 May 2010 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBenHeckconsolediygaminghackhandheld gamingHandheldGamingmodN64nimbusnimbus 64Nimbus64Nintendonintendo 64Nintendo64portableportable n64portable nintendo 64PortableN64PortableNintendo64videoFri, 07 May 2010 12:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaked Xbox 360 'Valhalla' motherboard analyzed by Ben Heck]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/18/leaked-xbox-360-valhalla-motherboard-analyzed-by-ben-heck/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/18/leaked-xbox-360-valhalla-motherboard-analyzed-by-ben-heck/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/18/leaked-xbox-360-valhalla-motherboard-analyzed-by-ben-heck/#comments Sure, you might've seen the purported Xbox 360 Valhalla motherboard leaked yesterday... but have you ever really seen it? There's a subtle difference, one that requires you gaze through the ocular receptors of our dearest old friend (he hates when we call him that) Ben Heck. Joystiq sat down with him to deconstruct the pictures and get his take on all the hardware nuances. First and foremost, there appears to be no connectors that "look remotely like a Xbox 360 memory card reader," which lends credence to the thought process they might be going the way of the dinosaur. WiFi is still missing in action, and as for Project Natal integration, Heck's highly doubtful that's in the cards, though he shares our mindset that a bundle would make sense. The big question is size reduction, and to that our game console laptop guru suggests that, given the constraints due to a DVD drive, the best we can expect is a one-inch drop in height (standing console), 0.5 inches in depth, and just "slightly thinner." Sorry folks, looks like even in your wildest dreams, it'll still tower over the Nintendo Wii. A great read, don your thinking cap, give yourself 15 minutes, and hit up the source.

Leaked Xbox 360 'Valhalla' motherboard analyzed by Ben Heck originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 21:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analysisben heckben heckendornBenHeckBenHeckendornbenjamin heckbenjamin heckendornBenjaminHeckBenjaminHeckendornheckheckendornmicrosoftmicrosoft xbox 360MicrosoftXbox360mobomother boardMotherBoardvalhallaxboxxbox 360Xbox360Thu, 18 Mar 2010 21:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck completes the Bill Paxton Pinball machine, reasserts supremacy]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/17/ben-heck-completes-the-bill-paxton-pinball-machine-reasserts-su/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/17/ben-heck-completes-the-bill-paxton-pinball-machine-reasserts-su/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/17/ben-heck-completes-the-bill-paxton-pinball-machine-reasserts-su/#comments Just in case you thought Ben Heck was being caught up by his acolytes, our favorite superhero modder has come back today with the completed Bill Paxton Pinball machine. You might remember the rough version of this glorious homage to one of the world's most mediocre actors from that time we visited Ben at his home / lair. It has now been fully fleshed out, painted, spit-shined, tested, and slapped with a badge of completion. You want to see it in action? We've got video of that. You want to see how it was built? We've got video of that too. You'll find the moving pictures after the break, but don't neglect the source as it also contains photo galleries and a walkthrough of the design process.

Continue reading Ben Heck completes the Bill Paxton Pinball machine, reasserts supremacy

Ben Heck completes the Bill Paxton Pinball machine, reasserts supremacy originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 05:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckben heckendornBenHeckBenHeckendornbenjamin heckendornBenjaminHeckendorndiyhomebrewhomemademodmoddingpinballpinball machinePinballMachinevideoWed, 17 Mar 2010 05:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Student-made Xbox 360 laptop channels the Heck out of... well, you know]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/17/student-made-xbox-360-laptop-channels-the-heck-out-of-well-y/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/17/student-made-xbox-360-laptop-channels-the-heck-out-of-well-y/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/17/student-made-xbox-360-laptop-channels-the-heck-out-of-well-y/#comments
 Few can build 'em like Benjamin Heckendorn. Fewer still bother to try. Two college kids managed to do a bang-up job anyhow building this fully loaded, Jasper-juiced Xbox 360 laptop. With a built-in 17-inch Gateway monitor, keyboard, functioning Xbox Live camera and Wireless Network Adapter, this brick hits all the right notes -- yet remains remarkably stylish for a learn-as-you-go student project. If you agree, you can read a remarkably detailed account of how they built it at the source link, see a proof-of-completion video after the break, or even further their education by purchasing the mean machine on eBay for your very own.

Continue reading Student-made Xbox 360 laptop channels the Heck out of... well, you know

Student-made Xbox 360 laptop channels the Heck out of... well, you know originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 03:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBen HeckendornBenHeckBenHeckendornbenjamin heckbenjamin heckendornBenjaminHeckBenjaminHeckendorncustomDIYgamesgaminghackhacksjasperjasper chipsetjasper motherboardJasperChipsetJasperMotherboardlaptopmicrosoft xboxmicrosoft xbox 360MicrosoftXboxMicrosoftXbox360modmoddedmodsportable xbox 360PortableXbox360projectprojectsstudent projectStudentProjectx-topxboxXbox 360Xbox 360 Elitexbox 360 elite laptopxbox 360 laptopxbox 360 modXbox laptopXbox360Xbox360EliteXbox360EliteLaptopXbox360LaptopXbox360ModXboxLaptopxtopWed, 17 Mar 2010 03:11:00 EST<![CDATA[World's first portable Sega Saturn has a face only a gamer could love]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/16/worlds-first-portable-sega-saturn-has-a-face-only-a-gamer-could/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/16/worlds-first-portable-sega-saturn-has-a-face-only-a-gamer-could/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/16/worlds-first-portable-sega-saturn-has-a-face-only-a-gamer-could/#commentsWorld's first portable Sega Saturn has a face only a gamer could love We'll start by saying that this perhaps the most aesthetically challenged portable console we've ever seen, and while it is a bit more slim than that "portable" GameCube we spied a few years back, it too is hardly pocketable. So why cover it? Because it's the first and only legitimate way to get your Fighters Megamix fix while on the go. (No, the Game.com version does not count). It was created by a modder who goes by the handle Evil Nod over at the benheck.com forums and contains what looks to be a full-sized console re-skinned and surrounded by a one of the system's optional analog controllers split in two. There's a 7-inch screen front and center and a nine volt battery 'round he back. The result ain't pretty, but we'd let it spin our Panzer Dragoon collection anytime.

[Thanks, ttsgeb]

World's first portable Sega Saturn has a face only a gamer could love originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBenHeckconsole hackconsole modConsoleHackConsoleModEvil DeadEvilDeadhackmodportableportable consolePortableConsolesaturnsega saturnSegaSaturnTue, 16 Mar 2010 09:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck's PS3 Slim laptop pops up for sale on Ebay]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/01/ben-hecks-ps3-slim-laptop-pops-up-for-sale-on-ebay/http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/01/ben-hecks-ps3-slim-laptop-pops-up-for-sale-on-ebay/http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/01/ben-hecks-ps3-slim-laptop-pops-up-for-sale-on-ebay/#comments You're probably already familiar with the work of modder / hacker extraordinaire, Benjamin Heckendorn... and if you're not, well, maybe it's time to familiarize yourself with his work. Regardless, some of his fantastic handiwork has shown up on Ebay for sale, and while we don't want to counsel you to foolishlessly spend loads of hard-earned cash, this is bound to be an heirloom one day. The listing here is for Ben's PS3 Slim laptop -- the one modded from a 17-inch Gateway 1775w LCD with a 1280 x 720 pixel resolution -- and its currently at around $1,075.00 with 16 bids on it and roughly 3 days remaining. So if this kind of thing strikes your fancy (and we know that it does) hop to it! Check out our segment of The Engadget Show we filmed at Ben's evil laboratory after the break.

Update: It looks like the auction has been pulled just recently, though we're not sure why. Thanks for the heads up, Wesley H.

Update 2: And it's back! Phew.

Continue reading Ben Heck's PS3 Slim laptop pops up for sale on Ebay

Ben Heck's PS3 Slim laptop pops up for sale on Ebay originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jan 2010 21:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckbenheckbenjamin heckendornBenjaminHeckendornhackhacksmodmoddingmodsps3ps3 slimps3 slim laptopPs3SlimPs3SlimLaptopFri, 01 Jan 2010 21:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Modder crafts handheld wireless visual interface for PS3, makes us want]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/30/modder-crafts-handheld-wireless-visual-interface-for-ps3-makes/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/30/modder-crafts-handheld-wireless-visual-interface-for-ps3-makes/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/30/modder-crafts-handheld-wireless-visual-interface-for-ps3-makes/#comments We tell ya -- Ben Heck's apprentices are the best. One techknott has just finished up his latest creation, a WVI (wireless visual interface) for Sony's PlayStation 3 console. The purpose? To transmit signals to and from the PS3 by way of this handy handheld. A 1.2GHz wireless transmitter is used to get the controller commands to the PS3, and the same is used in reverse to get the video signals from the console to the homegrown device. The device itself utilizes a 5-inch LCD, 4,500mAh Li-ion battery (complete with a LED capacity meter), an AV input, headphone jack, USB port and a button for every last DualShock command. Hop on past the break for a video, and head to the source if you're interested in making an offer for it. Yeah, we said it -- dude's going to be selling this!

[Thanks, Aguiluz]

Continue reading Modder crafts handheld wireless visual interface for PS3, makes us want

Modder crafts handheld wireless visual interface for PS3, makes us want originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Dec 2009 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBenHeckdiyhackmodplaystation 3Playstation3ps3ps3 WVIPs3Wvisonysony ps3SonyPs3videoWireless Visual InterfaceWirelessVisualInterfaceWVIWed, 30 Dec 2009 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The NCube: probably the best portable Gamecube of all time (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/09/the-ncube-probably-the-best-portable-gamecube-of-all-time/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/09/the-ncube-probably-the-best-portable-gamecube-of-all-time/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/09/the-ncube-probably-the-best-portable-gamecube-of-all-time/#comments Oh sure, we've seen a few "portable" Gamecube systems over the years, but we've yet to set our eyes on anything as glorious as this. Not surprisingly, the NCube's creator is yet another Ben Heck apprentice, with the case being a heavily modded Datamax Kid's Delight and the display an unmodded Zenith PSone. There's a 2-way switch for running off of batteries or the AC outlet, a relocated memory card slot and a rear-mounted disc drive that's just begging to be broken. Hit the read link for a look at 90 grueling hours of work, or just jump past the break for a celebratory video.

[Thanks, Jonathan]

Continue reading The NCube: probably the best portable Gamecube of all time (video)

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The NCube: probably the best portable Gamecube of all time (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBenHeckconsoleDatamaxdiygame consoleGameConsolegamecubegaminghackHailrazermodNCubenintendonintendo gamecubeNintendoGamecubeportableportable gamecubePortableGamecubeMon, 09 Nov 2009 10:18:00 EST<![CDATA[The Engadget Show: Inside Ben Heck's magic kingdom]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/19/the-engadget-show-inside-ben-hecks-magic-kingdom/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/19/the-engadget-show-inside-ben-hecks-magic-kingdom/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/19/the-engadget-show-inside-ben-hecks-magic-kingdom/#comments

If you're a reader of Engadget (and let's be honest -- you're reading this, right?) then you surely know Ben Heck's work. The master modder has been the source of some of our favorite tweaks, hacks, and flat-out crazy gadget manipulations over the years. We recently had a chance to take a peek inside his workshop and hear straight from Ben about what drives him to create the madness we've see on our pages. It's a phantasmagoric adventure you won't likely forget -- so sit back, crack a cold one, and enjoy the ride!

Note: Don't forget, our next full length Engadget Show is happening this Thursday, and our guest is Steve Ballmer!

Update: Video is now live! Sorry about that!

Host: Nilay Patel
Produced and Directed by: Chad Mumm
Edited by: Michael Slavens
Music by: Bit Shifter
Titles by: Julien Nantiec

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The Engadget Show: Inside Ben Heck's magic kingdom originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBenHeckbenjamin heckendornBenjaminHeckendornengadget showEngadgetShowengadgetshowcastfeaturesthe engadget showTheEngadgetShowMon, 19 Oct 2009 12:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Ben Heck's 17-inch PS3 Slim laptop makes hearts race]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/01/video-ben-hecks-17-inch-ps3-slim-laptop-makes-hearts-race/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/01/video-ben-hecks-17-inch-ps3-slim-laptop-makes-hearts-race/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/01/video-ben-hecks-17-inch-ps3-slim-laptop-makes-hearts-race/#comments Is it us or has Ben Heck outdone himself with the minimal clean design of his latest gaming mod? This laptop sees Sony's PS3 Slim stuffed into a monochromatic chassis with 17-inch Gateway 1775w LCD throwing a 1280 x 720 pixel resolution. There's even space inside to tuck away the power cord when traveling. The pinstriped result is nothing short of elegant, sporty even, especially when compared to his PS3 laptop from 2008. Not much in the way of detail yet, but really, this one's meant to stimulate the heart, not the frontal cortex. See it throb to life in the video after the break.

Continue reading Video: Ben Heck's 17-inch PS3 Slim laptop makes hearts race

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Video: Ben Heck's 17-inch PS3 Slim laptop makes hearts race originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 04:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>17-inchben heckBenHeckconsolehackhecklaptopmodpinstripepinstripesplaystation 3Playstation3ps3ps3 slimPs3SlimThu, 01 Oct 2009 04:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck throws together one-handed Xbox 360 controller, probably with one hand]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/25/ben-heck-throws-together-one-handed-xbox-360-controller-probabl/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/25/ben-heck-throws-together-one-handed-xbox-360-controller-probabl/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/25/ben-heck-throws-together-one-handed-xbox-360-controller-probabl/#comments
Ben Heck. Just the mere mention of the name brings chills to the spines of all who mod, and if today's the first day you've ever come into contact with those seven letters, prepare to be changed. Forever. The Great Modder's latest gig involved the creation of a one-handed Xbox 360 controller, but the catch was that it required completion within a ridiculously short period of time. Essentially, the left analog stick was repositioned to fit on the underside of the controller, enabling the user to operate that with his / her leg while handling the right side of the pad as usual. Check out a video of the admittedly raw looking final product after the break, and feel free to grab some inspiration while you're there.

[Via HackADay]

Continue reading Ben Heck throws together one-handed Xbox 360 controller, probably with one hand

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Ben Heck throws together one-handed Xbox 360 controller, probably with one hand originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 02:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBenHeckbenjamin heckendornBenjaminHeckendorncontrollergaminghacksmodsone-handedxbox 360Xbox360Fri, 25 Sep 2009 02:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck moves PS3 shoulder buttons to the front, spins us right round, baby, right round]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/18/ben-heck-moves-ps3-shoulder-buttons-to-the-front-spins-us-right/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/18/ben-heck-moves-ps3-shoulder-buttons-to-the-front-spins-us-right/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/18/ben-heck-moves-ps3-shoulder-buttons-to-the-front-spins-us-right/#commentsBen Heck moves shoulder buttons to PS3 the front, spins us right round, baby, right round If you've ever wished that those buttons on your videogame controller were over here instead of over there, you know who to call. Master modder Ben Heck's latest creation isn't his most amazing, but it fulfills a need for one gamer, that is to "make the shoulder buttons easier to get at." The result is a somewhat inelegant mod (by Heck's standards), bringing the L and R buttons to the fore, ditching the "last generation" rumble motors in the process. No loss, right Phil Harrison? Video demonstration after the break.

[Via technabob]

Continue reading Ben Heck moves PS3 shoulder buttons to the front, spins us right round, baby, right round

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Ben Heck moves PS3 shoulder buttons to the front, spins us right round, baby, right round originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckBenHeckcontrollerdisabilitieshacksmodmoddermoddingmodsps3ps3 controllerPs3Controllersonysony ps3SonyPs3Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Ben Heck amazes with Atari 800 laptop -- again]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/14/video-ben-heck-amazes-with-atari-800-laptop-again/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/14/video-ben-heck-amazes-with-atari-800-laptop-again/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/14/video-ben-heck-amazes-with-atari-800-laptop-again/#commentsVideo: Ben Heck amazes with upgraded Atari 800 laptop -- again
Of all the legacy platforms that have been massaged by modder extraordinaire Ben Heck, it seems the Atari 800 is his favorite. One got the portable treatment back in November of 2005, and he then re-worked it in late 2006. He's done it again, creating the third revision of the 8-bit luggable, completely overhauling the mod in period brownish/beige plastics, with old-school LED lights and an authentic keyboard that even pops up after the laptop is opened. Inside things are a bit more modern, with a 2.5-inch HDD serving the games (no more pressing PLAY on the cassette drive) and a GameCube power supply, of all things. It's a lovely creation that Ben himself rather enthusiastically demonstrates after the break and we, like him, wish we could add one to our collection.

[Via technabob]

Continue reading Video: Ben Heck amazes with Atari 800 laptop -- again

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Video: Ben Heck amazes with Atari 800 laptop -- again originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 08:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariatari 800Atari800ben heckben heckendornBenHeckBenHeckendornlaptopmodmoddermodsportable atari 800PortableAtari800Mon, 14 Sep 2009 08:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck realigns Xbox 360 pad for improved awesomeness]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/02/ben-heck-realigns-xbox-360-pad-for-improved-awesomeness/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/02/ben-heck-realigns-xbox-360-pad-for-improved-awesomeness/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/02/ben-heck-realigns-xbox-360-pad-for-improved-awesomeness/#comments If you've spent any time on Engadget before, you'll be aware that we're big fans of Ben Heck and his tireless modding, tweaking and hacking (or is it Hecking?) of console hardware. The latest feather to his cap comes in the form of a customized Xbox 360 controller, which sees its D-pad and action buttons swapping places in an effort to help a handicapped gamer get his proverbial groove on. The trigger buttons are also flipped, but the pièce de résistance is the inclusion of four extra action buttons along the bottom of the controller that make one-handed gaming totally feasible. Check 'em out after the break.

Continue reading Ben Heck realigns Xbox 360 pad for improved awesomeness

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Ben Heck realigns Xbox 360 pad for improved awesomeness originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 10:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ben HeckBen HeckendornBenHeckBenHeckendornBenjamin HeckendornBenjaminHeckendorncontrollercontroller modControllerModgame padGamePadhackhacksmodmoddermoddingmodsXbox 360Xbox 360 controllerXbox360Xbox360ControllerWed, 02 Sep 2009 10:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck's latest portable Xbox 360 adds sleek white finish, Jasper motherboard]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/05/ben-hecks-latest-portable-xbox-360-adds-sleek-white-finish-jas/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/05/ben-hecks-latest-portable-xbox-360-adds-sleek-white-finish-jas/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/05/ben-hecks-latest-portable-xbox-360-adds-sleek-white-finish-jas/#comments Even after five iterations, Ben Heck's portable Xbox 360 models are still a spectacle to behold -- he seems to keep outdoing himself every time, both in functionality and style. This latest model has the appearance of an oversized plastic polycarbonate Macbook when closed, and packs a 17-inch Gateway LCD panel. The big improvements here include the Jasper motherboard, a flush-mount DVD door and side panels, digital potentiometer / button volume controls, and an ethernet port in addition to WiFi. Not everything's been kept, as Heck says he ditched the camera, not seeing a point for it -- but hey, there's still two USB ports if any of his (already spoken for) customers want to add it. Impressive work, indeed. See it for yourself in the video after the break.

[Via TechEBlog]

Continue reading Ben Heck's latest portable Xbox 360 adds sleek white finish, Jasper motherboard

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Ben Heck's latest portable Xbox 360 adds sleek white finish, Jasper motherboard originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben heckben heckendornBenHeckBenHeckendornbenjamin heckbenjamin heckendornBenjaminHeckBenjaminHeckendorngamesgaminghacksheckjasperjasper chipsetjasper motherboardJasperChipsetJasperMotherboardmicrosoftmicrosoft xboxmicrosofto xbox 360MicrosoftoXbox360MicrosoftXboxmodmodsportableportable xbox 360PortableXbox360video gamesVideoGamesxboxxbox 360xbox 360 modXbox360Xbox360ModSun, 05 Jul 2009 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[SUPERTENDO portable SNES hack elevates an artform to something impressively commercial]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/02/supertendo-portable-snes-hack-elevates-an-artform-to-something-i/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/02/supertendo-portable-snes-hack-elevates-an-artform-to-something-i/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/02/supertendo-portable-snes-hack-elevates-an-artform-to-something-i/#comments Yeah, we're all been-there-done-that with portable SNESs these days, but we've never seen it done like this. Marshall posted his creation, dubbed the "SUPERTENDO," to Ben Heck's forums, which seems to imply (along with the looks) that he took some queues from similar designs already floating around those parts. What really sets this one apart, however, is the vacuum-formed chassis and the instant "make me an offer" move to a sale -- being owned by a major faceless media conglomerate ourselves, we like to see a guy who's out for a buck. A quick hands-on Video is after the break.

[Via benheck.com]

Continue reading SUPERTENDO portable SNES hack elevates an artform to something impressively commercial

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SUPERTENDO portable SNES hack elevates an artform to something impressively commercial originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 10:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ben Heck forum member Brian has built us a sweet little Nintendo-on-a-chip handheld that puts a Super Joy III KIRF TV game, a 2.5-inch display, a controller, and 4 AA batteries under the same roof. This bad boy not only allows you to play 76 games on the go (though, sadly, not at the same time), but it looks great doing it as well. Hit up that video after the read link and see for yourself.

[Via Nowhere Else]

Continue reading Nintendo handheld packs 76 old games behind one tiny screen

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Nintendo handheld packs 76 old games behind one tiny screen originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 29 May 2009 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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