A new system called CRTouch has been developed by three students from the University of Hasselt in Belgium, Dieter Meeus, Miel Truyen, and Nand Truyen. The CRTouch system allows touchscreen capabilities to be added to an old CRT monitor.
The CRTouch concept uses an Altera DE2-70 board and a few phototransistors in the fingertips of a glove to detect the electron beam created by the CRT monitor, to create the touchscreen.
How CRTouch Works
The CRTouch system ingeniously leverages the existing technology of CRT monitors to create a modern touchscreen interface. The inside of a CRT screen is coated with phosphors that glow when excited by electrons. This fundamental property is harnessed by the CRTouch system. Phototransistors embedded in the pointer and middle fingers of a specially designed glove detect the electron beam emitted by the CRT monitor. When the glove touches the screen, the phototransistors sense the electron beam’s interaction with the phosphors, allowing the system to pinpoint the exact location of the touch.
The Altera DE2-70 board plays a crucial role in processing the signals received from the phototransistors. It interprets these signals and translates them into touch commands that the computer can understand. This setup effectively transforms any old CRT monitor into a functional touchscreen device, breathing new life into outdated technology.
Applications and Implications
The potential applications of the CRTouch system are vast and varied. For instance, educational institutions with limited budgets could repurpose old CRT monitors into interactive learning tools, providing students with hands-on experience without the need for expensive new equipment. Similarly, businesses could use CRTouch to create cost-effective interactive displays for presentations or customer interactions.
Moreover, the CRTouch system could be particularly beneficial in developing countries where access to the latest technology is limited. By converting readily available CRT monitors into touchscreens, communities can gain access to interactive technology that would otherwise be unaffordable.
The video below shows the CRTouch concept in action, together with an explanation of how the system uses the CRT monitor to recognize the glove touching the screen.
“The inside of the screen is coated with phosphors which glow when excited by electrons. This project harnesses that property, using a phototransistor in both the pointer and middle finger of the glove.”
The CRTouch project also opens up new avenues for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists. With the right components and a bit of technical know-how, individuals can experiment with creating their own touchscreen systems. This could lead to further innovations and adaptations, expanding the possibilities of what can be achieved with older technology.
The CRTouch system is a remarkable example of how innovative thinking can repurpose existing technology to meet modern needs. By transforming old CRT monitors into functional touchscreens, the developers have not only created a practical solution but also demonstrated the potential for sustainable technology practices. The CRTouch project is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of its developers and serves as an inspiration for future technological advancements.
Source: Engadget : Hack a Day : Denacke
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