Electronics & Beyond (July 2000)

Written by: Pete Luckhurst

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Time to read 1 min


The July 2000 issue of Maplin's Electronics & Beyond magazine dives into a mix of practical electronics projects, in-depth features on emerging technologies, and insights into the future of electronics and computing. This issue provides a unique blend of hands-on advice for building devices such as a Velleman 250W Inverter and an 8031 Computer, alongside thought-provoking articles on the end of silicon's dominance in computing, the potential of rammed-earth buildings at the Centre for Alternative Technology, and the journey from computing enthusiast to Internet millionaire.


Table of Contents

Projects

  1. Velleman 250W Inverter: A guide to constructing a powerful inverter for converting DC to AC power.
  2. 8031 Computer: Building a basic computer system based on the 8031 microprocessor.

Features

  1. Life, Artificial Life, and Biomimetrics: Exploring the intersections of biology and technology, and how artificial life forms and biomimetic designs are influencing the future of innovation.
  2. Liquid Crystals - A Complete Analysis: Delving into the science behind liquid crystals, their applications in displays, and their role in the future of technology.
  3. The End of the Road for Silicon: Investigating the limitations of silicon-based technology and the search for new materials to power the next generation of electronic devices.
  4. A Rammed-Earth Building at the Centre for Alternative Technology: Showcasing sustainable building techniques and their applications in modern architecture.
  5. From Computing to Internet Millionaire: Chronicling the stories of individuals who have leveraged their computing skills to achieve significant success in the digital age.

Special Interest

  • Internet: Addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the expanding digital landscape.
  • Solar Power: Highlighting the advancements in photovoltaic technology and its growing role in sustainable energy solutions.
  • A Brief History of Number Systems: Tracing the evolution of numerical representations and their critical role in computing and digital communication.

About the author

Pete Luckhurst is a Website Manager at Maplin.

After getting an early start in the world of computing with C64 & Amiga computers, Pete now spends much of his spare time in PC VR and dabbling in game development. He also has a strong interest in film, photography and music.

Among other endeavours, he previously worked in a Maplin store, so it was a no-brainer when the opportunity arose to work on the modern incarnation of Maplin online. Besides writing for the blog, Pete works alongside the Maplin team to help keep the online store running smoothly.