Reverse Engineered Grill Controller Gets Open Firmware

On August 19, 2026, Hackaday published an article by Fenix Guthrie detailing open-source firmware for the Gravity 800 Grill. User PRBS23 reverse-engineered the device after a simple wire repair. The control board contains an ESP-32 microcontroller and a labeled programming port. Hardware includes four thermistor temperature sensors, a lid open/close switch, a fan driver, a 16-segment LCD, a piezo buzzer, and physical inputs. A 16-pin chip interfaces with the MCU via a 9600 baud UART connection. This chip likely functions as a cheap MCU acting as an analog front end. PRBS23 could not identify a specific ADC chip meeting these specifications.

New material database and hot end improve 3D printing results

Robert Samples released MeltCalc, a thermodynamic modelling database for FDM 3D printing, on August 19, 2026. The tool collates data on 64 hot ends and 36 polymers to calculate maximum flow rates and print speeds. Samples, a chemist, developed the database to replace optimistic marketing numbers with realistic flow estimations. The system accounts for advanced hardware, including Core Heating Technology nozzles. MeltCalc assists users in determining if specific hot ends can handle given filaments at targeted rates. The project source code is available on Github. The article, authored by Zoe Skyforest, highlights the tool’s utility for pushing hardware limits beyond standard slicer settings.

Engineering student builds DIY remote controlled water gun robot

CroissantPoisson, an engineering student, created a DIY project blending summer themes with preparedness. The motivation stems from a previous incident where friends ambushed the creator with water guns at his door. This invention serves as defense against such unexpected attacks. Detailed instructions and specifications are available on Instructables. The project highlights personal readiness rather than complex engineering mechanics. The narrative focuses on the backstory of the ambush and the resulting build. Adafruit is the source of the blog post. The creator emphasizes ensuring he is prepared for similar summer encounters. The project represents a blend of DIY spirit and seasonal fun.

Energizing vacuum-tube flip-flop module from 1948 IBM 604 system

In 1948, IBM introduced the 604 Electronic Calculating Punch. This programmable calculator was approximately the size of a double refrigerator. IBM released the 604 shortly after the transistor was invented. The timing was too early for transistor integration. During this period, computing technology shifted from slow electromechanical components to faster vacuum tubes. The 604 represented this transitional technological phase. The device functioned as a programmable calculator. This specific hardware configuration defined the machine’s capabilities. The introduction marked a step in the evolution of electronic calculation.

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