The Ultimate Kit Guide

Community Quality: 4

(5=Most community) How much of a community is there around the kit? Are there builder groups, online forums, circles, and meetups? Is the kit used in class- rooms or after-school programs? Do the kit makers or builders have a presence at events like Maker Faire?

Coil Driver

Coil Driver

Make Kit Reviews

Coil Driver

$45

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Reviewed: November 9th, 2011

If you like high-voltage sparks arcing through the air (and who doesn’t?), check out the Coil Driver, which drives an automotive ignition coil at audio frequencies. Like other musical kits, the Coil Driver makes a great group build because you can all make cool sounds together when you’re done. However, while it’s an easy solder, […]

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FireBall V90 CNC Router  Kit

FireBall V90 CNC Router Kit

Make Kit Reviews

FireBall V90 CNC Router Kit

$990 with additional 3-Axis ProboStep Motor/Driver Kit

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Reviewed: October 26th, 2011

Although the V90 is an entry-level machine, it’s decidedly not a toy. The way it functions is complicated — a platform carries the tool holder; a larger gantry moves the tool back and forth; the frame positions the gantry; and it’s all driven by a motor turning the screw interposed between two shafts. Indeed, this […]

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MadeUSA Robot Base Full Kit

MadeUSA Robot Base Full Kit

Make Kit Reviews

MadeUSA Robot Base Full Kit

$880

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Reviewed: October 25th, 2011

Around my house I’ve renamed my MadeUSA “Big Bruiser” for the black and blue marks it leaves on my ankles when it runs into me during programming tests. Chalk it up to an occupational hazard. And besides, I got these bruises while having fun. This bot, which is strong enough to cart around a full-grown […]

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