Virtual Whiteboard
Rajit Kumar
David Wang
Steven Elia
Dan Pehush
Project Concept
Concept: The Virtual Whiteboard is a device that can display
text messages from cell phones anywhere in the world. The
product utilizes an LCD screen that can be updated over the
3G network, WiFi, or USB and can display desired messages
with real-time updates.
Motivation: The current version of a whiteboard, where public
information is displayed while you are away is neither
accessible nor advanced enough for people's busy lifestyles.
With the Virtual Whiteboard, you can communicate en masse,
from anywhere with just a text message from your cell phone.
This is the ultimate convenience for someone who needs to
let other people know information without having to divulge
private contact information.
Competitive Analysis
• Cell phones, but you need to give away your
cell phone number, and have others’ cell phone
numbers
• Twitter on cell phones, useful but not always
practical and requires everyone you need to be
subscribed
• Conventional black/white board, not accessible
enough, not convenient enough for today’s
lifestyles
• Electronic Message Board, but the text can
not be displayed all at one time and messages
can not be sent to it from any other device
Requirements
Functional
• Program the system to be able to display text on the LCD
screen
• Be able to update the screen by USB, WiFi, and 3G
• Be able to automate the screen to update itself by constantly
checking a website
• Be able to update the screen remotely by cell phone
• Notify of message by blinking LED and/or beeping
• Be able to access one day's worth of messages
Timing
• Screen will update from any input given to it, within 3 minutes of
text being sent
Reliability
• Easy to use user interface with a minimal amount of buttons
• Only accept input from user-determined allowed sources
• If connection is lost, device will attempt to reconnect to network
Technical Specifications
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Gumstix Connex 200xm
Wifistix-CF FCC (with u.fl antenna)
ConsoleLCD-vx
Samsung™ 4.3" LCD panel
5V Power Adapter
Compact Flash Card
USB Cable (for testing)