Steam-Powered iPod Charger Brings Back Memories of Locomotives and Cowboys

One of Boing Boing’s readers managed to build his own steam-powered iPod charger. When your iPod goes “up in smoke,” at least it won’t mean an emergency trip to the Genius Bar.

A Lego Technic Motor was attached to a Jensen #75 steam engine to make a crude generator. He then added a 5V regulator circuit and soldered a female USB connection. He also added some circuit protection. It even looks like a cute little rest stop on the Oregon Trail before you had to dump all that leftover buffalo meat you shot into the river (sigh, what a waste.) He should remember though that water, heat and electronics usually don’t mix or he might end up taking the pony express to the nearest Apple store. [Boing Boing Gadgets]