Dave McCabe with Embracing the Maker Mindset: A Conversation on 3D Printing, Woodworking, and Home Automation – HGG632
Dave McCabe joins me this week as we talk about the fascinating realm of home tech gadgets, exploring his custom 3D-printed creations and the journey of running an Etsy store. We discuss the impact of modern 3D printers, particularly the Bamboo Labs models, and share tips on sourcing materials and designs from the community. The conversation shifts to the advancements in woodworking tools and the upgrades in Dave’s shop, emphasizing the role of organization and precision in crafting. We also touch on home automation and security systems, along with the sentimental value of historical tech in our lives. This episode is a deep dive into innovation and creativity in the world of gadgets and DIY projects. Thanks for listening!
Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg632
Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show #632 of Home Gadget Geeks, brought to you by the Average Guy Network.
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Links
https://www.etsy.com/shop/DavidMcCabeWoodworks
https://gridfinity.perplexinglabs.com
Chapters
[0:07] Introduction to Home Gadget Geeks
[1:23] Congratulations Christian!
[3:21] CNC Machines and Woodworking
[5:43] Designing the Mac Mini Stand
[11:08] Etsy Store Updates
[18:04] 3D Printing Innovations
[28:28] Home Server Systems
[1:02:21] Home Automation Trends
[1:06:40] Photography and Digital Memories
[1:09:55] Preserving Family History
[1:22:32] Future Podcasting Plans
[1:25:22] Closing Remarks and Thanks
Extended Outline
- Home Gadget Geeks Show Introduction and Patreon Support [0:00]
- Jim Collison introduces the Home Gadget Geeks show, episode 632, recorded on December 12, 2024.
- Jim thanks Patreon subscribers and encourages listeners to join via the average guy.tv/patreon link.
- Jim mentions Christian Johnson’s recent LASIK surgery and upcoming fatherhood.
- Dave McCabe shares his own LASIK experience and the benefits of the procedure.
- Discussion on CNC Machines and Mac Mini M4 Stand [3:13]
- Jim and Dave discuss Dave’s CNC machines and woodworking projects.
- Dave explains how he created a stand for the Mac Mini M4 using Apple’s specifications and 3D printing.
- Dave details the design process, including the challenges of creating a stand that fits the Mac Mini M4’s ports and heat dissipation.
- Jim and Dave discuss the importance of having the power button accessible on the stand.
- Etsy Store and 3D Printing Business [16:00]
- Dave talks about his Etsy store, which includes CNC plans and 3D printed items like drink trays and smokers.
- Dave shares his success with the Etsy store, mentioning that he hopes to cross 1000 sales before Christmas.
- Dave describes the types of printers he uses, including the Bamboo Lab A1 Mini and the P1S.
- Jim and Dave discuss the ease of use and benefits of the Bamboo Lab printers.
- Home Automation and Home Server Setup [41:04]
- Dave shares his home automation setup, including using Alexa for garage lights and Ring for security.
- Dave mentions his disinterest in home automation compared to his past enthusiasm.
- Jim and Dave discuss their home server setups, with Dave using a Synology NAS for backup and personal storage.
- Dave explains the importance of backing up his business files and personal photos for future access.
- Woodworking Projects and Tool Organization [41:21]
- Dave talks about his woodworking projects, including a juice groove jig for cutting boards.
- Dave describes the process of creating the jig and the positive response from customers.
- Jim and Dave discuss the importance of precision and organization in woodworking.
- Dave shares his approach to organizing tools and materials using a grid system and 3D printed organizers.
- New Tools and Equipment in the Woodshop [44:58]
- Dave discusses recent additions to his woodshop, including a table saw and a track saw.
- Dave explains the benefits of the saw stop feature on his table saw and the precision of the track saw.
- Jim and Dave talk about the importance of having the right tools for different projects.
- Dave mentions his plans to create a router table for improved product flow in his woodshop.
- Photography and Data Storage [1:04:25]
- Dave shares his experience with sports photography and the large amount of data it generates.
- Jim and Dave discuss their approaches to storing and backing up photos and other data.
- Dave mentions using Google Photos, Amazon Photos, and OneDrive for additional storage.
- Jim talks about downsizing his own data storage and the challenges of managing large amounts of photos.
- Final Thoughts and Future Plans [1:08:00]
- Jim and Dave discuss the importance of having a backup plan for data and photos.
- Dave mentions the potential challenges of future technology and how to preserve data for future generations.
- Jim and Dave share their thoughts on the evolving nature of technology and its impact on their lives.
- The conversation ends with a light-hearted discussion about the future of technology and its implications.
- Purge Phase and Old Tech [1:08:11]
- Jim Collison and Dave McCabe discuss their struggles with decluttering, with Jim holding onto old tech longer than Dave.
- Dave mentions getting rid of old cameras and electronics, including a Canon T50 film camera.
- Jim and Dave talk about the process of selling old tech on eBay, including the importance of labeling legacy tech drives.
- They reminisce about old tech like the iPod Touch and first-generation iPhones, and the nostalgia of using them.
- Old Apple and Google Devices [1:15:05]
- Dave shares his experience of selling a first-generation iPhone and having other old Apple devices like the iPad 1 and 2.
- Jim wishes he had kept his Palm Pilot and HP tablet, while Dave talks about his collection of Google Nexus phones.
- They discuss the nostalgia of using old devices and the value of keeping them for sentimental reasons.
- Jim mentions Kevin’s favorite old Apple product, the iPod Shuffle, and his own experience with the device.
- Cassette Players and 8-Track Players [1:17:09]
- Dave shares a story about his son discovering a cassette player in his old truck and enjoying classic rock tapes.
- Jim recounts an intern’s experience with an 8-track player in a Porsche and buying 8-track tapes on eBay.
- They laugh about the nostalgia of listening to old music formats and the joy of discovering them in unexpected places.
- Jim thanks Dave for his contributions and their long-standing friendship.
- Podcasting and Technology Ease [1:18:02]
- Jim explains how easy it is to record and edit podcasts now, with AI tools handling much of the work.
- Dave admits he wouldn’t know how to start a podcast now due to his focus on 3D modeling and other tech skills.
- Jim highlights the advancements in technology that make podcasting more accessible and efficient.
- They discuss the potential of using AI for show notes and how it could improve the process.
- Future of Podcasting and Tech Conferences [1:22:06]
- Dave mentions the possibility of starting a maker podcast if he gets the bug again.
- Jim reassures Dave that podcasting has become much easier and encourages him to give it a try.
- They compare the tech industry and podcasting, noting the similarities in conferences and vendor interactions.
- Jim predicts that Dave will eventually return to podcasting due to its ease and the fun of connecting with people.
- Meetups and Social Media [1:22:55]
- Jim and Dave reminisce about past meetups and the effort required to organize them.
- They discuss the challenges of maintaining momentum for meetups and the joy of connecting with like-minded people.
- Dave mentions his son’s upcoming college journey and how it will impact his availability for meetups.
- They express gratitude for the community and the memories created through their interactions.
- Final Thoughts and Farewell[1:25:06]
- Jim thanks Dave for his participation and contributions to the podcast.
- They discuss the importance of connecting with people and the joy of having private conversations through the podcast.
- Dave appreciates the memories and the sense of community created through the podcast.
- Jim provides reminders for listeners to join the Discord group, leave messages, and check out the platform powered by Maple Grove Partners.
More from ChatGPT
In this episode of Home Gadget Geeks, I sit down with Dave McCabe to explore the exciting world of tech gadgets for the home, diving into various product updates, personal projects, and the nuances of 3D printing. We kick things off discussing the latest updates on Dave’s successful Etsy store, where he sells custom 3D-printed gadgets and woodworking jigs. He shares his motivations behind creating items like a juice groove jig and vertical Mac Mini stands, reflecting on how personal needs often inspire his designs.
The conversation flows into Dave’s experience with 3D printers, particularly the Bamboo Labs models, which he recommends as exceptional tools for both beginners and seasoned users. He elaborates on how easy it is to start printing with modern 3D printers and shares tips on sourcing materials, including his favorite places for free 3D designs that foster creativity within the community. We discuss the broader implications of 3D printing and how it enhances not just personal hobby projects but also practical applications in woodworking and home organization.
As we delve deeper, we chat about the evolution of tech gear over the years, touching on the conveniences that new products bring, such as better track saws and organized storage solutions for tools. Dave reminisces about his woodworking shop, detailing the upgrades he’s made, including acquiring a SawStop table saw and setting up efficient workstations for various projects. He highlights the importance of precision in woodworking and how a well-organized shop contributes significantly to the quality of his work.
Toward the end of our discussion, we cover home automation and security, reflecting on the devices that enhance our everyday lives. He shares insights into his home server setup and how he manages data storage efficiently for his growing photography projects and family memories. We also touch on the sentimental value of past technology, pondering over how our children may interact with the plethora of old gadgets we’ve accumulated.
Throughout the episode, the camaraderie and passion for technology shine through, making it a compelling listen for anyone interested in the latest gadgets, DIY projects, or simply the intricacies of home technology as it evolves. Join us as we navigate the intersection of creativity and innovation, celebrating the tools that make our lives easier and more enjoyable.
Dave’s Workshop and Printing Adventures
Here’s a breakdown of what Dave’s been up to:
Workshop Setup:
- Converted a two-car garage stall into a well-organized woodshop.
- Built cabinets, a Miter saw station, and added ceiling storage.
- Got rid of unnecessary clutter.
Etsy Shop (DavidMcCabeWoodworks):
- Selling CNC plans, woodshop plans, and 3D prints for 2 years.
- Approaching 1000 sales!
The “Print Farm”:
- Converted his old office into a dedicated printing space.
- Built a large workbench with drawers and parts bins.
- Added a dedicated desk for his printers (currently 2, with a 3rd coming soon).
3D Printing Setup:
- Uses Bambu Lab printers: P1P with AMS and A1 Mini (no AMS).
- Has two filament driers for continuous printing.
- Prints PLA and PETG filaments (mostly Bambu Lab and Overture brands).
- Uses the printers for functional items: woodshop helpers, house upgrades, etc.
Design Inspiration:
- Finds inspiration online through Printables, Thangs, and Makerverse.
- Uses Gridfinity for organization solutions (designing custom bins and grids).
- Learned design using Fusion 360 to create his own products (like the Mac Mini stand).
Storage and Tech:
- Still utilizes Synology NAS systems for data storage (various models at home and backup locations).
- Uses Google Drive, OneDrive, and Amazon for cloud storage (mostly photos).
- Has multiple iMacs (2010 and 2019) and a new M4 Mac Mini (waiting for a 4K monitor).
- Builds powerful gaming PCs with his sons.
Smart Home:
- Slowly phasing out SmartThings devices due to complexities.
- Prefers Z-Wave door locks and external lighting.
- Uses Ring for security cameras and doorbells (despite price increase).
- Has Wyze cameras in the print farm for additional monitoring.
- Created a custom garage door opener for quick access.
Overall, Dave seems to be enjoying his well-equipped workshop and thriving Etsy business. He’s actively utilizing 3D printing technology to enhance his projects and create innovative products.
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Popular Tags: Podcast, Home Gadget Geeks, Jim Collison, Christian Johnson, 3D printers, Bamboo Labs, Etsy store, custom 3D-printed creations, home automation, home tech gadgets, innovation, security systems, sourcing materials, woodworking tools
