[geeks] Electronics project ideas

[William Enestvedt]

I am trying to make a light saber for one of my sons. (Sssh! It's a
surprise -- if it works.)



   I took the nicely-milled handle of an old Sun Exx00 CPU Module
6-inch/lbs Torque Wrench and removed the assembly holding the hex bit.
This leaves me with a steel tube about six inches long, with a 5/8"
opening that's threaded at the bottom, offering a nice checkered grip
for most of its length.



   Luckily the Rhode Island School of Design shop is nearby, and they
sell plexiglass cylinders -- both hollow and solid. I plan to get a
30-inch long piece of this and fit it into the torque wrench handle. But
I want to insert some kind of light in the middle if I can.



   Can anyone recommend a way to light up this plexiglass tube? My
current thought is to disassemble a cheap LED flashlight and cannibalize
its guts. Are there better alternatives?



   Note that I haven't soldered before, and I fear I will have to learn
now. :7)



   Thanks for nay ideas!



- Will

P.S. Yeah, I have seen the UltraSabers items, but I already have these
components, and I kind of want to do it for the doing of it. Also, if it
works, I have a second son and a second torque wrench, and it would be
nice to hook up both of the boys!



--
Will Enestvedt