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Step 14SOFTWARE
Sparky actually uses requires two computers - the onboard Mac Mini, and some other computer that is web-enabled and video-chat ready. Think of this second computer as Sparkys control booth. I use an old powerbook and iSight camera.
Both computers require Skype. The Sparky project uses it for video chat, but also exploits its text chat function to shoehorn motor control commands through the Skype connection- so if Skype is connecting, the robot is drivable with no additional connection between them required.
How it works: In addition to Skype, Sparky requires custom plug-in software. The control booth plug-in comes with videogame-style, WASD controls mapped to the keyboard. Keystrokes from the booth are sent as text messages within Skype to Sparkys onboard Mac Mini, where another copy of the plug-in receives the text messages and translates them into motion commands sent to the MAKE controller, which sends power to the servos.
Here is the custom software
Here are software instructions
Both computers require Skype. The Sparky project uses it for video chat, but also exploits its text chat function to shoehorn motor control commands through the Skype connection- so if Skype is connecting, the robot is drivable with no additional connection between them required.
How it works: In addition to Skype, Sparky requires custom plug-in software. The control booth plug-in comes with videogame-style, WASD controls mapped to the keyboard. Keystrokes from the booth are sent as text messages within Skype to Sparkys onboard Mac Mini, where another copy of the plug-in receives the text messages and translates them into motion commands sent to the MAKE controller, which sends power to the servos.
Here is the custom software
Here are software instructions
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