DIY iPad Styluses, Cable Organizing & Cheap Wi-Fi Antennas - Tips & Tricks

Reader Tips Roundup: DIY Tech Solutions

Each week, we compile and share valuable tips submitted by our readers. This week’s collection focuses on resourceful solutions for common tech challenges.

DIY iPad Styluses

Many readers have inquired about creating their own iPad styluses. Several effective methods utilizing readily available materials have been shared.

These DIY approaches offer a cost-effective alternative to purchasing commercial styluses.

Simple Cable Organization

Managing cables can often become a frustrating task. Our readers have suggested several straightforward techniques for effective cable organizing.

These methods range from utilizing binder clips to repurposing everyday household items.

DIY Wi-Fi Antenna Boosters

Extending Wi-Fi signal range is a frequent concern. Readers have detailed how to construct inexpensive, homemade Wi-Fi antennas to improve signal strength.

These DIY antennas provide a budget-friendly way to enhance wireless connectivity.

The instructions involve simple modifications to existing materials, resulting in a noticeable improvement in signal reach.

These reader-submitted ideas demonstrate ingenuity and a commitment to resourceful problem-solving within the tech space.

Creating a DIY iPad Stylus Using a Drafting Pencil

A resourceful reader, Branden, has shared a simple method for crafting an iPad stylus.

A Quick and Easy Solution

Following the publication of a previous DIY iPad toy hack, Branden offered this alternative approach.

Initial attempts to create styluses involved complex processes like soldering, drilling, and wire winding, which proved cumbersome.

Branden discovered a significantly easier technique for iPad stylus creation.

The Drafting Pencil Method

The core of this method involves utilizing a metal drafting pencil and a small piece of conductive foam.

The conductive foam is carefully pinched and inserted into the lead holder of the pencil.

Experimentation with various drafting pencil designs may be necessary to achieve optimal functionality.

However, Branden reports that all the drafting pencils currently on his desk are compatible with this technique.

Simple Materials, Effective Results

With drafting pencils readily available, the remaining requirement is to locate some conductive foam within a workshop or supply area.

This tip, provided by Branden, offers a straightforward and accessible solution for those seeking a DIY iPad stylus.

Efficient Cable Management and Recycling

A resourceful method for cable organization has been shared by Ollie, offering a practical solution for managing infrequently used cords.

Utilizing Cardboard Rolls for Cable Storage

This technique, originally discovered online, involves repurposing paper towel and toilet paper rolls to neatly contain cables.

The process is straightforward: cables are carefully folded and then inserted into the cardboard tubes.

Subsequently, these tubes can be stacked within a cardboard box, resembling a crate filled with canes.

Ollie maintains a collection of filing boxes, each containing a meticulously organized assortment of cables within their office closet.

Comparison to Other Cable Management Methods

Various cable management approaches, such as cable ties and Ziplock bags, have been employed previously.

However, in terms of efficiency and ease of implementation, this cardboard roll method proves to be superior.

It offers a quick and effective way to declutter and maintain order among a collection of cables.

This system not only organizes cables but also promotes the recycling of household materials.

Creating Your Own Low-Cost Wi-Fi Antennas

A reader named Isela recently shared a resourceful method for boosting Wi-Fi signal strength.

The High Cost of Store-Bought Antennas

Isela encountered a significant price point while searching for Wi-Fi extending antennas at a local electronics retailer. A high-gain pair was priced at $50.

Considering she had only spent $50 on her router initially, the additional cost seemed disproportionate.

The alternative of purchasing another router to function as a repeater carried a similar expense.

A DIY Solution Discovered Online

Driven to find a more economical solution, Isela conducted online research.

She discovered a video demonstrating the disassembly of a high-gain antenna.

The video revealed that these antennas largely consist of a standard antenna with an extended wire and incorporated coils.

Building High-Gain Antennas from Scraps

Inspired by the video, Isela deconstructed her existing antennas.

Utilizing readily available materials – scrap wire, solder, and even a straw – she successfully constructed high-gain antennas.

The total cost of this project was remarkably low, reportedly around a nickel.

Our Interest in Replicating the Hack

This resourceful solution has piqued our interest, and we are considering replicating the process with our own router.

We possess all the required components: copper, solder, straws, and a willingness to potentially void the warranty.

Share Your Tips with Us!

Do you have a helpful tip or trick to share with the community?

Send your submissions to tips@howtogeek.com, and we'll share them with our readers.