Interesting Problem

We struck an interesting issue this week. One of the schools that have sourced equipment through 3Pi reported that they couldn't get the system to work in one of their classrooms.
The classroom setup was unusal in that the projected image was quite high (above the floor).
They had been trying to calibrate from desk height aiming the wiimote up, but it just wouldn't calibrate.

When we looked upwards along the top of the wiimote, to the middle of the screen, there was an incredibly bright reflection. It seems that the combination of a steeper than usual upwards angle and a very reflective screen were confusing the wiimotes camera. When we tried the wiimote positioned at double the height, it calibrated perfectly, as it also did when we positioned it up by the projector looking down. (Another issue for such a high setup is that only very tall people could interact with the image anyway - not good for young students!)

Remote Synching the Wiimote

As we've said before, we believe the best position for the wiimote in a classroom is up high away from interference. Our new power insert (described in the post below) allows you to permanently power the wiimote which removes the necessity to change the batteries, but you still have to be able to put the wiimote into 'discoverable' mode so that your computers Bluetooth can make the connection.

This is where the 3Pi remote synching button comes in. It comes with a 10m cable and plugs into the wiring loom in our Classroom Kit. You simply press the button for a few seconds and the wiimote goes into discoverable mode. The button can be positioned in a convenient location (usually close to the computer) and makes the system very easy to use - it certainly beats standing on a chair or trying not to move the wiimote while reaching with a ruler!

One last point to note is that using our system, the wiimote only stays in discoverable mode for 20 seconds. This becomes important if several wiimotes are being used in close proximinity such as a block of classrooms.

Mains power

We have another really useful piece of equipment to add to the 3Pi catalogue.

Our new insert allows you to run the wiimote permanently from mains power.

It is the result of a detailed and extensive design and testing programme and we are confident that it is simply the best solution available for powering the wiimote.

The insert clips into the wiimote in place of the battery cover. Inside, the electronics ensure that the wiimote receives a nice steady 2.9vdc which is perfect for reliable, long term performance.

The insert also features a moulded thread in the standard 1/4 20 thread size to make mounting it a breeze. We at 3Pi are really excited about this part of our kit, because along with our remote synch button, it solves another issue in making this system practical for classroom teachers.