Author name: Alexander McGregor

Founder and Editor of HomeNode. Alexander has been building home lab setups across Ontario for over a decade. He writes on networking architecture, self-hosting infrastructure, and hardware for Canadian buyers. Follow on X: @Auburn_AI

How to Build Your Own PI64 Retro Gaming Console: A Step-by-Step Beginner Guide
Raspberry Pi, New Technology

How to Build Your Own PI64 Retro Gaming Console: A Step-by-Step Beginner Guide

Building a PI64 retro gaming console on a Raspberry Pi 5 is one of the most rewarding home lab projects available today. This beginner guide walks you through every step from flashing Recalbox V10 to pairing Bluetooth controllers and fine-tuning emulation for systems like Sega Saturn and Nintendo 64. Whether you are just starting out or trying to finally get your build over the finish line, this guide gives you the roadmap to do it right.

The Service “Some Dude Shows Up” and Maps Your Electrical System: A Home Lab Community Deep Dive
NAS Devices, Homelab

The Service “Some Dude Shows Up” and Maps Your Electrical System: A Home Lab Community Deep Dive

A viral r/homeautomation thread asking for a service where some dude shows up and maps your entire electrical system has resonated deeply with home lab builders tired of mystery switches and unlabeled breakers. We break down what that service would include, why electrical documentation is foundational for smart home deployments, and the five best DIY tools to build that map yourself.

how to organize a homelab so your partner stops asking why the networking closet looks like a disaster
Homelab

how to organize a homelab so your partner stops asking why the networking closet looks like a disaster

If your wife is tired of your disorganized homelab, this ultimate guide shows you exactly how to transform cable chaos into a clean, high-performance rack build. We cover mini PC clusters, 80TB NAS architecture, 10GbE networking with Ubiquiti gear, and the top 5 products that make the biggest difference. Real specs, real community experience, and a clear upgrade path from beginner to advanced.

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