When Tiny Circuits founder/president Ken Burns began his 2011 Kickstarter campaign, he simply planned to make, and distribute, some really cool technology.

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He had no idea that his miniature electronics platform, the TinyDuino, was going to launch a business.

Today, Ken’s startup, Tiny Circuits, operates out of a former rubber factory in downtown Akron.  Not only do they offer the TinyDuino–an Arduino-compatible platform the size of a U.S. quarter–they also offer kits for tiny (and cute) miniature electronics projects.  And their electronics are open-source, allowing makers to add their own creativity and imagination!

Tiny Circuits will be exhibiting from the startup pavilion at the Maker Faire Bay Area, in May.  Among the items they’ll display: the Tiny Arcade, an operative game arcade you can hold in the palm of your hand–and the TinySaber, which is just over four inches long!

Ken talked about his experience creating his startup, Tiny Circuits, offered some advice for fellow entrepreneurs and gave a preview of some of the cool creations he and his his staff will be previewing at the Maker Faire Bay Area.

On this edition of Over Coffee®, you’ll hear:

• How Ken first became interested in engineering and maker skills;

• The story of Tiny Circuits;

• What the early days of the startup were like;

• Ken’s advice for fellow maker/entrepreneurs, from lessons learned during his first year in business;

• Some of the products Ken and his staff will be exhibiting at Maker Faire Bay Area, including a preview of something brand-new!;

• Where to find Ken and his Tiny Circuits exhibit at the Maker Faire;

• Some of the new ideas Tiny Circuits’ products have inspired, in the maker community;

• A couple of no-solder projects available for beginning makers.

• Planning on being in the Bay Area in May?  Check out the Maker Faire, Friday, May 18th through Sunday, May 20th at the San Mateo County Event Center!  Here’s the link for more information.