These are suggestions for projects, you can start with an easy concept then add complexity. This is an opportunity to add something practical to your lighting community. All suggestions welcome.
Arduino to DMX Converter project on fritzing website http://simple $5 3 part USB to DMX adapter using the arduino is a simple $5 3 part USB to DMX adapter using the arduino
You can install an enttec OPEN DMX Driver and use a free program like FreeStyler to control your DMX Devices
A Small and Simple DMX Control Desk to control all 512 channels in DMX. on fritzing website http://fritzing.org/projects/small-dmx-control-desk
Coach Lantern
Analyse what type of light source for the period ?
Candle
Oil
Gas
Electric – Halogen
Electric – Sodium
LED – Colour temperature ?
What is the colour temperature, dynamic characteristics, brightness – Use Lee Filters Art of Light or similar for suggestions on colour, e.g. Lee 652 Urban Sodium.
Will it need to be portable ? how long does the battery duration need to be ? What type of control, DMX cabled or wireless ? What is the budget ? What size is it ?
Shown is Coach Lantern using RGB LED tape, driven by DMX decoder so lighting desk can select colour of lamp or run slow colour fades to simulate gas flame animation.
Theatre Cue Lights