TESmart HKS801-P23-USBK KVM Teardown

Recently, one of the USB ports on my previous KVM switch failed. Since it’s a critical piece of equipment, I needed a replacement the same day. The original AliExpress product page was no longer available; the seller seems to have closed up shop entirely.

Fortunately, the OEM—XUFUNG—has released an updated version, now sold in the US as the TESmart HKS801-P23-USBK. It looks visually identical to the previous KVM switch, but the USB ports now feature the characteristic blue color indicating USB 3.0 support.

Two Minute Teardown: Petkit Eversweet Solo 2

I am doing research for an upcoming project and was curious about how other people have solved a similar problem. This happens to be the cheapest option that was available at the time.

I am primarily interested in the pump; the integrated “low water” sensor and the UV-C sterilization are very nice features that would check off a lot of boxes for me… Unfortunately this pump it lacks both the flow rate and the head that I need for my project.

Qi wireless power tester

The Qi standard for transmitting power is ~ 15 years old and has been ubiquitous for at least a decade now. And yet, I have only recently seen any testing equipment for it.

The Wozniak WPX-0001A is a simple tester that can measure the output level and protocol of Qi chargers.

Generic liquid level meter teardown

I ordered this part years ago for a project I eventually canceled.

I can’t use it for anything, and it’s just taking up space, so I’m going to open it up before I recycle it.

The Ali Express listing is a 404 so I don’t have a link to share or really any information about it.

The main thing to take away is that it’s meant to interface with a liquid level sensor. It will display the level of liquid in a tank and - optionally - trigger a few relays based on the level.

Home Assistant Voice: Preview Edition teardown

This is a quick #TwoMinuteTeardown post for the recently released Home Assistant Voice Node - Preview edition.

Normally, I’d be doing a full teardown, but this is a little different; the Home Assistant team has done a lot of the work out in the open. With just a quick Google, you can find official:

• teardown instructions here.
• source code here.
• 3D printable case files.
• Instructions for adding custom devices here.

I am grateful for such a well-documented and open project. Truly, by hackers for hackers!