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The BBC series, The Secret Life of Machines:

The Secret Life of Machines is a television series created by Tim Hunkin and presented by himself and Rex Garrod. In it they explain the inner workings and history of common household and office machinery. According to Hunkin, the series was developed from his comic strips The Rudiments Of Wisdom which he researched and drew for the Observer newspaper over a period of 14 years.

Everyday things we take for granted, and which may largely be considered confusing or unknowable, are explained in entertaining, comprehensive and comprehend-able detail. There are currently several episodes for viewing at YouTube/Google Video. Some of them can be downloaded for iPod/PSP viewing, to boot. (gregg tavares)