This could be powered by battery, USB, or re-wired DC adapter. In this example I used a 9v battery, but will end up using a DC adapter to avoid wasting batteries.
What I used:
1. Small motor from an old CD player
2. One DVD
3. One 9v battery (and wire connectors)
4. Some stripped wires
5. Velcro Tape
6. Small lightbulb. (Can be found on those strips of holiday lights)
7. Cap from a interestingly shaped water bottle
8. Three screws.
9. Strip of Metal
How I made it (brief):
It was all simple really. First taking the DVD you will notice it has 2 layers. I took a small and thin flat head screwdriver to pry the layers apart. Then I took scissors and cut even slits in the DVD. Then, holding it over a burning candle I bent each fin on the DVD to an angle. Next, I had a motor (several) from old CD players. This was perfect 'cause the DVD fan blade clips right onto the motor, also making it easy to replace if it breaks. Then I wrapped the back of the motor with the velcro tape and stuck it to the receiving end on the top of the strip of metal. After that, I mounted the metal strip onto the bottle cap, and put a screw in it to hold it down. I also place 2 little screws on the side for later use when wiring. I then took the small light bulb and wedged it in between the motor and the metal strip. Then I put a piece of velcro on battery and stuck it to the metal strip as well. I took the wires from the battery connector and connected them to the small side screws. I linked up the wires from the motor and from the light, and connected them to the side screws as well to complete the circuit.
Here is the final product. (It's hard to tell when it's spinning, but when the light is on, it's working)
The nerdiest fan in the world.
Comments
I've got to make me one of these.
Though I haven't done electronics since high school.
Damn. That was 5 years ago
Love the USB idea on the Metacafe video one.
Better invest in some extra USB ports
And some extra desk space -_-
Here's some inspiration for your next "project".