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Using Hacked Wiimotes As Scientific Sensors

Posted by samzenpus on from the graduated-joystick dept.

garg0yle writes "Scientists are repurposing Wiimotes as scientific sensors to help measure wind speed or evaporation from lakes, among other things. At about $40 per unit, the controller is much cheaper than specialized sensors. The scientists are still considering how to add storage and extend the battery life."

3 of 110 comments (clear)

  1. Oh Science. by Interoperable · · Score: 4, Insightful

    “There are probably better ways to measure wind, but it was a day well-spent,” Hut said. “I really felt the need to solder something.”

    A day well-spent indeed! There's nothing like spending a day to save a few dollars by not having to buy a specialized sensor. Sounds like my Master's research; why buy good equipment when grad students can spend ages building a poor imitation of it? Still, those days are usually the most fun part of "science" and certainly afford excellent learning opportunities.

    --
    So if this is the future...where's my jet pack?
  2. It's not about how much it costs to make by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 4, Insightful

    ...this equipment can run $500 or more...

    The scientific equipment is more expensive because laboratories are willing to pay more, and have the money. Gamers aren't willing to pay $500 for a controller.

    Look here: Digikey has 18000 pressure sensors available. I picked one at random, and it can measure pressure up to 115 psi, which is about 60 meters deep in water. It only costs $12. I could make you the serial port/USB interface for like 20 bucks.

    Scientists only pay that much because they are willing to pay that much.

    1. Re:It's not about how much it costs to make by Psaakyrn · · Score: 5, Insightful

      However, you're underestimating the cost of time. Mass production decreases both the cost and time of making a specific product (or combination of products).