Popular Mechanics South Africa

The South African edition of Popular Mechanics was launched in 2002 and has fast become the acknowledged voice of science and technology in South Africa. Underpinning its rich sci-tech content is an ever-changing mix of articles covering everything from automotive news and outdoor adventures to DIY projects. In essence, it explains how our world works

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

Popular Mechanics South Africa

The balance of power

CALENDAR • UPDATE YOUR DIARY • THIS DAY IN HISTORY

TIME MACHINE • It made per fect sense at the time

We spent all day arguing about this triangle brain teaser. Can you solve it?

Why our bodies have gotten colder with each passing decade

The PoP Mech riddle that defeated me

Mentally speaking • A book that demystifies the most complex organ in the human body, in seven short lessons.

Playing games has never felt so important

VIDEO GAMES

BOARD & TABLETOP GAMES

CONSOLES

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TOYS FOR KIDS

TOYS FOR GROWN-UPS

BUT WILL HE ACTUALLY TELL US HIS SECRETS?

THE CHANGING FACE OF CYBER CRIME • Ransomware, malicious domains, data-harvesting malware, the Dark Web, botnets, cryptojacking… It might sound like a sci-fi movie but these crimes are real, know no borders, are virtual, and they cause significant damage. This is the world of cybercrime.

PODCASTER’S GEAR GUIDE TO GETTING ON THE AIR WEB • Ever considered hosting a podcast? Perhaps you’ve got an X-factor voice, a great idea, and a lot to say. So your brand and concept are sorted – now all you need is the right gear…

GEAR & GADGETS • Must-have hardware for humans on the go

The original handheld GPS brought us everything from safer flights to faster door dash deliveries

5 HANDHELD GPS DEVICES THAT DO WHAT YOUR PHONE CAN’T

The world’s best new brewers just happen to be robots

A closer look at robot-generated beverages

Snack time • Making it through the day without a snack is near impossible. So why not create a healthier option, and make your own protein bars?

HOW TO CREATE A SELF-SUSTAINING GARDEN

THE 3 TYPES OF DRIVETRAINS • There are two ways to propel a mower: You push, or the mower itself does. And if you opt for one that moves forward under its own power via a drivetrain, you have to choose between rear-wheel, front-wheel, and all-wheel drive. Here’s how each works.

HOW TO MAKE A MARKING GAUGE • A marking gauge is a crucial tool for any workshop. This is how to make one that uses a rotary wedge to lock it firmly into position.

PROCESS

MAKE A BATH ROOM SHELF

PROCESS

HOW TO BE GOOD AT WHAT YOU DO • Kammy Stucker, 4 9, Director of Plant Operations at Hammond’s Candies, Denver, USA

LEGEND REBORN • The most recognisable off-road vehicle of the past 70 years has undergone a total redesign. We climbed inside and out, under and over, and covered miles of challenging terrain, to get a clearer understanding of the new Land Rover Defender.

WILL THE REAL S 1000 XR PLEASE STAND UP? • Tourer, all-roader or crazy superbike? Yes, says BMW. Really? POP MECH investigates.

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Clever tips and lifehacks

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