$80 Smartboard

Digital Whiteboard (build one for under $80)

Digital whiteboards are rapidly becoming a standard classroom tool (and on every teachers wish list).

Generally referred to by the product name --- Smartboard, this outrageously expensive but incredible piece of hardware allows teachers and students to control a computer from the front of the classroom.

However, the average cost of this tool is around $2500 --- ouch. And with the current state of our economy and cutbacks in education, who can afford this tool?

Answer: we all can!
And we can thank Johnny Lee for his $80 creative alternative. He uses an inexpensive WiiMote (Wii remote game controller) in a very creative manner.
This solution has 80% of the Smartboard capabilities for 3% of the cost.

Begin with Johnny's presentation (just watch the first 3 minutes).

If you're not familiar with a Smartboard, check out this short video

Video Demonstrations of the WiiMote:

Meet the infamous Johnny Lee where he describes the $80 Smartboard.
Step-by-step of parts and assembly.

Required Software:

Smoothboard (free download)

Easily transforms your flat screen display (whiteboard or wall) into an interactive whiteboard with just a Wii Remote and IR Pen (infrared pen).
Smoothboard provides a simple interface that enables users to interact with their computer directly at the screen.

WiiMote Smoothboard manual

WiiMoteConnect 0.6 (Free download. Select "wiimoteConnect 0.6)

This software assists in autoconnecting your BlueTooth with your WiiMote Controller.

Directions on connecting your WiiMote to a PC.

If you're install a Bluetooth (assuming one was not built-in), then you'll see a response similar to the illustration below:

Uponlaunching the Smoothboard software, you'll see the following illustration on your screen. Simply hit the 'Calibrate button', touch the 4 corners of the screen, and you're set to go.