E
F
GH
Fig. E: The sound recording module we’ll be using.
Fig. F: Remove the Play switch button on the circuit
board. Feed the clothespin wires through 2 of the
SETTING UP THE BOOBY TRAP
After you record your own message and sound
effects, you can use the Talking Booby Trap in lots
of ways:
» Place a diary, journal, or any object on the brass
tab. The weight of the object keeps the clothespin
open and armed. Camouflage the booby trap by
placing something else in front. If anyone lifts the
book — whoop! whoop! — the alarm goes off. The
snoop is busted!
» Use the Talking Booby Trap to shame your lunch-lifting co-workers. Hide it behind your food inside
the fridge at work. If anybody touches it, the talking
booby trap blasts: “Keep your hands off my lunch!”
Now everybody will know the identity of the secret
food thief!
» Tie a string to a small piece of paper and slip it
between the clothespin jaws. Then tie the other end
to any pilferable object. You’ll know if anyone tries
to take it, because pulling the string trips the booby
trap: “Step away from the camera!” You can use
tab holes. Fig. G: Booby trap in set position.
Fig. H: Booby trap in triggered position. Adjust rubber
band tension as needed.
thin monofilament fishing line instead of string for
a nearly invisible alarm.
» Any bit of paper can act as the bait in your trap to
catch a thief.
» Open the Talking Booby Trap and slip it under a
closed door. If anybody opens the door, you’ll know
it. “Hey, you kids — get back in bed!” Or record a
scolding “Bad dog!” message to keep pets in their
place while you’re away. You can also arm a drawer
or sliding door.
» On a more positive note, you can leave a friendly
audio reminder for someone special. Arm their cellphone or car keys and they’ll hear you say: “Don’t
forget — romantic dinner tonight!” They’ll really get
the message from the spy who loves them!
Bob Knetzger (
neotoybob@comcast.net) is an inventor/
designer with 30 years’ experience making fun stuff.
He’s created educational software, video and board games,
and all kinds of toys, from high-tech electronics down to
“free inside!” cereal box premiums.
Make: 63
