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DIYer powers retro gaming console with a Stirling engine

A DIY enthusiast has created a unique computing device powered entirely by a miniature Stirling engine. This steampunk-inspired console, built from wood and 3D-printed parts, utilizes the engine's mechanical energy to generate a small amount of electricity, just enough to run an 80 MHz ESP32-C3 microcontroller. The device can play classic games like Tetris, Snake, and Pong, and even includes a basic code editor for CHIP-8 programs, all while consuming a mere 150 milliwatts of power. AI

IMPACT Demonstrates novel low-power computing solutions, though not directly AI-related.

RANK_REASON DIY project using a Stirling engine to power a custom-built computing device.

Read on Tom's Hardware →

AI-generated summary · Google Gemini · from 1 sources. How we write summaries →

DIYer powers retro gaming console with a Stirling engine

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DIY project using a Stirling engine to power a custom-built computing device.
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COVERAGE [1]

  1. Tom's Hardware TIER_1 English(EN) · Kunal Khullar ·

    DIY modder creates 'heat engine computing device' powered by a Stirling engine, can run Tetris, Snake, and Pong — 80 MHz processor operates on just 150 milliwatts of power

    The custom machine uses an ESP32-C3, OLED display, and 16-key keypad while squeezing retro gaming into a tiny 150mW power budget.