So we have all seen the very clever Microsoft Surface coffee table PC, well check out this amazing homemade coffee table PC from moder extraordinaire Xylomn.
I built this system as part of my dissertation for the final year of my Computing Science: Software Engineering degree. It’s basically a table-based computer system with a camera pointing down at the screen. Using pattern recognition, it detects user interaction. With a piece of software I wrote, images, video, audio, and comments sent via Bluetooth to the table are plotted on a map. It’s designed for collaborative interaction with multiple people using it at any one time. No matter what side of the table people are at, the part of the interface that person is using rotates so it’s the right way up for them 🙂
Technical Specifications and Components
Here’s the specs.
- ASRock ConRoe1333
- Intel Pentium DualCore E2180
- 2GB Corsair 800MHz
- GeForce 8400GS
- 250GB HDD
- ACER 24″ Monitor
- Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000
The ASRock ConRoe1333 motherboard is a solid choice, providing a reliable foundation for the system. The Intel Pentium DualCore E2180 processor, while not the most powerful by today’s standards, offers sufficient performance for the tasks this table PC is designed to handle. The 2GB of Corsair 800MHz RAM ensures smooth operation, and the GeForce 8400GS graphics card, though modest, is adequate for the graphical needs of this interactive table.
The 250GB HDD provides ample storage for the software and media files that will be used during collaborative sessions. The ACER 24″ monitor is a crucial component, offering a large and clear display for multiple users to interact with. The Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 is an excellent choice for the camera, known for its high-quality video capture and reliability.
Innovative Features and User Experience
I have to say this is a pretty clever mod, and the features that this moder has built into this cool table PC are amazing. The use of pattern recognition to detect user interaction is particularly impressive. This technology allows the table to respond to touch and gestures, making it highly interactive and user-friendly.
The software developed by Xylomn is another highlight. By plotting images, videos, audio, and comments on a map, the table becomes a hub for collaborative work. This feature is particularly useful in educational settings, brainstorming sessions, and creative projects where multiple inputs need to be visualized and organized.
One of the most innovative aspects of this table PC is its ability to rotate the interface based on the user’s position. This ensures that no matter where a person is sitting, the interface is always oriented correctly for them. This feature enhances the user experience significantly, making the table accessible and convenient for everyone involved.
Moreover, the integration of Bluetooth technology allows for seamless sharing of media and comments. Users can easily send content from their devices to the table, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas can be shared and discussed in real-time.
In conclusion, Xylomn’s homemade coffee table PC is a remarkable example of ingenuity and technical skill. It not only serves as a functional piece of furniture but also as a powerful tool for collaboration and interaction. The combination of hardware and custom software creates a unique user experience that is both engaging and practical.
via Techpowerup Forums
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