Show HN: I built a "Do not disturb" Device for my home office
4 months ago
- #DIY
- #Hardware Hacking
- #Over-Engineering
- Author created a custom 'Do Not Disturb' device to signal meeting status to parents.
- Used an ESP32 to display camera status (on/off) from a MacBook on an OLED screen.
- Overcame Apple's lack of a public API for camera status by monitoring system logs.
- Implemented mDNS to solve dynamic IP issues, allowing stable local network addressing.
- Designed a 3D-printed case for the device, learning Fusion 360 and tolerances in the process.
- Enhanced the project with BLE for real-time updates and a custom binary protocol for efficiency.
- Added custom tray icons and animations for macOS integration, emphasizing aesthetics.
- Project showcases over-engineering for fun, including unnecessary but enjoyable features like a custom protocol.