Finally put together a prototype of a board idea I've had kicking around for a while:
It provides 64 bidirectional I/O using I2C on analog 4 and 5...you can have 64 outputs, or 64 inputs, or any mix of the two. There are programmable pullups, bitmasks, and other functions. The I/O are wired to 2x10 headers, with a ground channel and a common channel that can be wired to a custom voltage. The chips themselves can also be switched over to an external power source. This might be necessary if the attached circuits will drain more power than the Arduino can supply.
The funny thing is that while this board seems pretty useful, I don't have an immediate application for it. I can make a few more prototype shields, but probably won't want to sell those directly. However, here's an idea!
If you have an existing, immediate use for this shield, please post your idea below by Friday, November 13th, 2009. I'll pick two ideas that I like, and contact the winners in PM to get a shipping address and send you a free Centipede Shield and operating instructions.
I'll be looking for ideas that are exciting and/or very useful, are something you plan to build immediately, are described in excellent detail, exhibit your knowledge and ability to complete the project, are accompanied by any necessary diagrams, and written in a readable manner.
Basically, impress me.
If I get only one suitable entry by the 13th, I'll go ahead and announce that winner, and extend the contest by another week for the second shield.
Feel free to spend time on your idea...this isn't a first-post contest. Any entry posted up to the 13th will be considered equally.
Please keep the entire entry in this forum, not sent via private message, or written on another site and linked here. Thanks!