Nuts and Volts - September 2015

with your guests? The Magic Mirror will provide you with the opportunity to do just that! You use a microphone and computer keyboard to add the audio and to control the actions of your choice of characters. The products are very affordable — only $15 each. They even offer a free version, although it uses text files to manipulate its behavior and is a little more complicated to control. This effect works best if you build it into a facade, and the site offers suggestions on how to create the perfect design. A little practice learning to puppeteer and you’ll soon be amazing your visitors as you converse with them. This feature can certainly become the centerpiece of your display (Figure 10).

11. Very Low Cost PICAXE Controller — and !

This was where my interest and early education in the world of Halloween electronics began. Mike Langensiepen put together an outstanding beginner’s project using the 08 PICAXE chip which allows you to get started building and programming your own controllers. His instructions are easy to follow, and the project cost will satisfy even the most budget conscious builder. It will allow you to get your feet wet and complete a project to build your confidence.

My success with this build encouraged me to continue to learn and take on more complex designs. Don’t be fooled into thinking that this is just a practice project, however. Once completed, this board can be integrated into many different props, allowing you to control them to fit your haunt needs (Figure 11).

12. Four-Channel Button Banger Board — and !!

This board was designed by Tyler Straub, but is commonly referred to as the Scuba Board after Tim Thompson who helps distribute them. These boards are available as either bare, solder-it-yourself printed circuit boards or Tim will populate the boards for you at a very reasonable cost. Prior to this board being available, I designed my own two-channel button banger, but now reach for this board for the majority of my applications which require this style of controller. Tyler has incorporated a variety of useful features which I truly appreciate. These include reverse voltage protection on the input and a separate wired remote that allows you to program the board from a safe distance from a fast moving prop.

One huge advantage to using a board such as this is that there is no programming required by the end user. You set up your sequence by simply pushing the buttons at the desired times. By following the voice prompts, you select your trigger type and delays again by just pushing the buttons. This type of controller is highly recommended for someone getting started using prop controllers or without the programming knowledge needed for some of the more complex controllers (Figure 12).