Ever fancied creating your very own Lightsaber bug zapper? Well, if you have, the team over at Hack A Day has built one and created a video to show you how to construct one yourself. By modifying a toy lightsaber and a plastic bug zapping bat, check out the video after the jump to see the build process.
Materials and Tools Needed
The hack was created in just over 20 minutes and uses two layers of metal mesh to create the lethal electrical zapping component of the Lightsaber bug zapper. For more information, jump over to the Hack A Day website. To get started, you will need a few essential materials and tools:
– A retractable toy lightsaber
– A portable bug zapper (shaped like a tennis racquet)
– Basic tools such as a screwdriver, pliers, and wire cutters
– Electrical tape or heat shrink tubing
– Soldering iron and solder (optional but recommended for a secure connection)
“I happened to have a retractable light saber lying around, so all I needed was a portable bug zapper. They’re easy to find and pretty cheap too. These portable bug zappers are shaped like a tennis racquet and function by having the bug short between two screens. To build my light saber, all I needed to do was to adapt the screens to my toy.”
Step-by-Step Construction
1. Disassemble the Bug Zapper: Start by carefully taking apart the bug zapper. You need to access the metal mesh screens and the electrical components inside. Be cautious as some parts may still hold a charge.
2. Prepare the Lightsaber: Open up the toy lightsaber and remove any internal components that are not needed. You want to make space for the bug zapper’s electrical components.
3. Adapt the Screens: Cut the metal mesh screens from the bug zapper to fit inside the lightsaber. Ensure that the screens are securely attached and do not touch each other, as this could short-circuit the device.
4. Install the Electrical Components: Transfer the electrical components from the bug zapper into the lightsaber. This includes the battery pack, wiring, and any switches. Make sure all connections are secure and insulated with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing.
5. Reassemble the Lightsaber: Once everything is in place, carefully reassemble the lightsaber. Ensure that the metal mesh screens are exposed at the end of the lightsaber, allowing it to zap bugs effectively.
6. Test the Device: Before using your new Lightsaber bug zapper, test it in a safe environment. Make sure it zaps bugs effectively and that all electrical connections are secure.
Safety Considerations
While building and using your Lightsaber bug zapper, keep the following safety tips in mind:
– Handle with Care: The device uses high voltage to zap bugs, so handle it with care to avoid accidental shocks.
– Keep Away from Children: This is not a toy and should be kept out of reach of children.
– Use in Well-Ventilated Areas: Ensure you use the bug zapper in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhaling any fumes from zapped bugs.
– Regular Maintenance: Periodically check the device for any loose connections or damage to the mesh screens.
By following these steps and safety tips, you can create a fun and functional Lightsaber bug zapper. For more detailed instructions and additional tips, visit the Hack A Day website.
Source: Hack a Day : Engadget
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