Banzi noted it was completed at least a year ahead of a planned government project with a similar aim.

CNN: What if you could make anything you wanted?

Take a look at our gallery below and watch our video interview with Arduino founder Massimo Banzi after the break.

ENGADGET

In the same session, Massimo Banzi described the diverse uses, DIY computer enthusiasts have found for his affordable, open-source computer motherboard Arduino.

BBC: TEDGlobal: Burns portrait comes alive at TED