Build Your Own Wii Whiteboard

Hey folks:

A lot of people have been asking how I managed to construct a homemade "SMART board" for our classroom, and so I wanted to take a quick opportunity to share that information here.

Assuming you already have a working USB projector and a computer, you can make your own SMART whiteboard out of any available surface simply by using a Nintendo "WiiMote" and a homemade infared pen. Making the Wii Whiteboard took very little in the way of "construction" know-how, and was incredibly easy to do. Since I already owned a Wii remote, I was able to complete the entire project in less than one hour for under $10.

Here's what you'll need:

1. Wii to Whiteboard Software (FREE DOWNLOAD):
   http://www.uweschmidt.org/wiimote-whiteboard
   
   
2. Infared Wiimote Pen:
   Buy one online ($20 + shipping)
   Build your own ($10 + tools)
   
   
3. (Optional) *Note: The Wiimote automatically "syncs" with most computers using built-in Bluetooth technology, which comes standard on all newer laptops and PCs. If your computer does not have built-in Bluetooth recognition, you will need to purchase a Bluetooth dongle (available at Radio Shack or Best Buy for under $10) in order to connect the Wiimote to your computer.

Materials Needed:
Wii Remote Control ($50)
Infared LED ($2 at Radio Shack - catalog #276-143)
Size "N" Battery and Battery Holder ($3 at Radio Shack)
Non-Locking Push-Button Switch ($1 at Radio Shack)
Expo Dry Erase Marker (or similar PVC-cased marker shell) ($1)
Small-Gauge Electrical Wire
Electrician's Tape

Tools Needed:
Needle Nose Pliers
Soldering Iron and Solder
Drill
Digital Camera (this is used to check that your infared signal is properly transmitting)

Total Time to Construct:
One Hour

Total Cost of Project:
$60

Happy crafting!

- M.