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Build Log: Kits
Introduction
This is a short build log for some small electronics kits I ordered from China. These are very simple so I won't be going into great detail but I'll be sure to give my thoughts on the overall kit quality as I go.
Kit 1: Small Digital Clock
This small clock kit was a fun build but the weakest of the three I built this weekend. To start, it needs 5V power from a user provided source, kind of annoying and makes it a little more difficult to deploy because now I've got to think about finding or making a power source for it. In the end I ended up cannibalizing an old USB cord and hooking it up to a li-po battery pack. It works fine but the alarm buzzer is noisy, I can;t tell if it;s from the clock crystal or from the power supply but there is a constant hum when the device is powered on.
Kit 2: Memory Game
This memory game was the most involved of the three kits and included my first ever surface mounted component. Once again, things went together smoothly and without any issue. Wiring the speaker took a little trial and error as there were no markings on the component to identify + or - for connecting the wires. When I got the whole thing together and showed it to my seven year old it took about an hour to get it back. I'd say that's a success.
Kit 3: Wristwatch
This wristwatch kit was particularly goofy but I think it will be a good conversation starter if nothing else. No real commentary here, it went together like a dream and works great! My only complain is that it's a little large for me and way too big for a child's wrist. I wouldn't mind finding another one that's a little bit smaller.
Conclusion
I'll definitely be getting a few more of these little kits from China. All in, with shipping, I think I paid about $16.00 for all of it and that's well worth the price of admission.
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