These DIY tech kits let you assemble your own camera and speaker

DIY computer-maker Kano is diving into the Internet of Things. The British startup announced a Kickstarter campaign for three gadgets designed to let students and hobbyists build their own speakers, cameras, and pixelated LED displays. If you’ve ever wanted to create your own motion-sensitive security camera or a speaker that cheers when your favorite team scores, you’re in luck.

When Kano launched in 2013, it was all about making your own computer and coding your own apps, art, and games. Now, according to the company’s CEO, Alex Klein, it’s about taking you back into the physical world. With step-by-step instructions to build a device, you can learn how it all comes together.

Each of the startup’s devices has room to store up to three pre-loaded apps at a time, and can be swapped in and out whenever you want. Instead of using a device such as a Raspberry Pi, the company created its own single-board computer that lets its devices connect to the technology around them via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. All kits come with an instruction manual, are battery-operated, and can stand alone from a screen after they're programmed, making them portable. Below is a breakdown on each kit.

Speaker kit

Kano’s smart speaker can be used in conjunction with a Gesture Sensor, meaning users can manipulate the speaker using movement and location. For example, the volume can be controlled by simply moving your hand closer to and away from the sensor plugged into the speaker.

What’s more, other devices can plug into the speakers to let them do more than just play music. They can be programmed to record, control, and synthesize custom sounds and electronic music.

Camera kit

If you're into photography, you'll be pleased to know this easy-to-assemble five megapixel codeable camera is almost as powerful as the one on the iPhone 5. You can code the camera to carry out a variety of functions, such as snapping pictures when you clap your hands, use a specific photo filter, take pictures of the setting sun, and use a flash.

The camera comes with a plug-and-play tripwire sensor that uses infrared beams to detect movement, so you can also code the camera to do something such as take a photo every time your pet enters the room.

Pixel kit

It’s time to shine. Kano’s light board with 128 LED lights can display data from the cloud or sports scores. You can use it to build games, visualize sounds, and create artwork with a choice of 1.7 million colors. The pixel kit is equipped with a tilt sensor, which responds to motion in order to alter the intensity of the lights.

If all goes according to plan, the kits, which cost $99 each, will ship in January 2017. However, the first 2,000 Kickstarter backers may be able to get their pixel kits in time for the holidays at the end of this year.

Source: Kickstarter