About this project

I've begun prototyping a low-cost LED light for the Kindle. I'd like the finished product to be something that I can offer as a DIY kit for end users to purchase with parts + instructions, and I'll post how to do it on your own without the kit on my website too. So far, I've just been toying with what parts to use, how to position for good light distribution, etc. Here's a flickr set of the first very basic progression of prototyping to date:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cksample3/sets/72157617426105960/

I've also posted about the process on my blog:
http://www.sampletheweb.com/2009/04/28/how-to-build-a-cheap-led-reading-light-for-your-kindle-or-sony-reader/
http://www.sampletheweb.com/2009/04/29/kindle-led-light-prototype-c/

For the next steps, I want to add a switch, move the battery to the back of the Kindle, and make the building of the LED light less of a bend and tape operation and a more polished LED kit. In order to make this next step I could use some money to buy a bunch of parts and tools for prototyping (I need a new soldering iron, wires, heat shrink tubing, etc.).

If and when I get it to the level where I begin offering the LED kit to the public, I'll give all donors of this successfully funded project who donate $5.00 or more a 25% discount on the price of the finished kit and I'll give any donor a 10% discount. I'll also publicly release the full instructions on how to build an LED light for the Kindle on my blog, step by step as I go along, and a full how-to on my blog once it is complete.

Also, as I'll be posting updates along the way, I'd love suggestions and contributions from all of you in designing this little light kit. Please comment and let me know your thoughts!

NOTE: In the video I mention everyone gets 25% off, but this was when I was thinking a minimum of $5 contribution, but I thought some people may want to donate less, and thus created 10% off for $1 donations.