Articles featuring: AI-assisted surgeries, a prison workshop utilizing a lathe, and a four-part series running at one hertz
In the latest episode of the Hackaday Podcast, hosts Editors Elliot Williams and Tom Nardi delve into a captivating array of technology topics that span from fusion reactors to robotic pets.
The episode begins with a discussion on fusion reactor technology, reflecting the ongoing advances in clean energy research. The hosts question the growing role and trustworthiness of artificial intelligence in critical medical procedures, raising the intriguing question, "Do you trust this AI for your surgery?"
The conversation then moves on to the concept of planned obsolescence and its impact on technology, shedding light on how devices and components are designed with limited useful life to encourage replacement.
Innovations in robotic animals are featured, specifically mentioning "CARA the Robotic Dog" and a robotic cheetah used for teaching motors classes. The hosts also discuss the challenges and dedication required for the restoration of serious flight simulators, and the creative engineering involved in the 2025 One Hertz Challenge, which includes hacks using an ancient transistor that counts seconds.
The episode concludes with an incredible story about a clandestine machine shop operated inside a WWII prisoner of war camp, demonstrating resourcefulness and resilience in dire conditions. Other topics touched upon include a small Supercon update, old-school lightning detectors, and the battle between Blu-ray and streaming media.
Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts about the episode in the comments, and there's even a form for a chance to win a Podcast T-Shirt by identifying a specific sound. For further exploration, links to the discussed topics are available.
Other highlights of the episode include the introduction of Jcorp Nomad, an offline media server in a thumbdrive, USB-C Rainbow Ranger, a device for sensing volts with style, and Elliot's picks including an introduction to PooLA and a filament made of grass fiber-reinforced PLAA.
This episode offers a deep dive into how technology past and present intertwine, providing a fascinating exploration of the world of technology and engineering.
In the conversation, the hosts mention a segment on the 2025 One Hertz Challenge, which involves creative engineering hacks using an ancient transistor that counts seconds, showcasing the intersection of DIY technology and science. Later, they bring up the topic of CARA the Robotic Dog, hinting at the advances in radio technology incorporated in robotic animals.
