Our project page will contain details of our new repurposing ideas. We plan each upcoming item extremely carefully, taking an item that inspires imagination, and attempting to develop it into a modern usable object. As can be imagined, this process takes considerable reflection, research and finally, work. Additionally, we thoroughly test each item before making them available to the general public. Our project page will contain specifications and thorough explanations of our process from start to finish.
Watch this whole process here.
Mersey Repurposing Telephones
In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, we often find ourselves surrounded by discarded gadgets, including old phones that have been replaced by sleeker, more advanced models. However, instead of letting these vintage devices gather dust, there’s a fascinating way to give them a new lease on life – by refitting them with Arduino circuits to work on Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) networks.
The Power of VOIP
Voice over Internet Protocol, or VOIP, is a technology that allows voice communication and multimedia sessions to be transmitted over the internet, which bypasses traditional telephone networks. This technology has gained immense popularity due to its cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and the ability to integrate various communication services into a single network. Due to the practicalities of VOIP, refitting old phones to work on VOIP networks enables them to make calls to landlines, mobile phones, and other VOIP devices, expanding their usability far beyond their original capabilities.
The Arduino Advantage
Arduino, a versatile open-source electronics platform, has revolutionized the world of hardware prototyping and DIY projects. Its user-friendly interface and vast community support have made it a go-to choice for hobbyists, students, and professionals alike. At the heart of every Arduino project lies the art of programming, which enables the microcontroller to perform specific tasks. The Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE) is the software used to write and upload code to the Arduino board.
Refitting Old Phones
Reviving an old phone involves several steps, starting with disassembling the device to access its internal components. After this, we interface the phone’s keypad, microphone, speaker, and display with an Arduino board. Additionally, some models might require additional components like voltage regulators and level shifters to ensure compatibility between the phone’s hardware and the Arduino.
Refitting old phones to work on VOIP networks using Arduino circuits is a creative and environmentally friendly way to give new life to vintage devices. It combines the charm of nostalgia with the power of modern technology, allowing us to appreciate the past while embracing the present. By harnessing the capabilities of Arduino boards and integrating them with VOIP services, we can turn discarded phones into functional communication tools, proving that innovation knows no bounds when it comes to repurposing technology.
Other Items
To see intact items for sale, please visit our shop.
Looking for a gift to show you’ve thought outside the box? MR has a range of individually designed gifts to show how unique your loved one is. You can find examples of our personalised gifts throughout our store. They range from antique phones and clocks brought back into modern day-to-day use to stunning pottery and glassware with a secondary and less ornamental purpose. We also have a collection of classic books, re-packaged with an information pack, making the reading that much more meaningful. For truly bespoke gifts, please view our antiques catalogue and email us with your idea. With your input, we can price it up and give you a timescale. Please visit MR Gifts for our personalised gift bundle building service, guaranteed to cater to your loved ones’ tastes.