design considerations for IR

Rich Bails (richb@cc.gatech.edu)
Wed, 3 Apr 1996 13:36:06 -0500 (EST)

Something we need to be considering is which IR are we looking at using. We
can continue using the strap-on devices we currently have, but then we run
into problems of trying to implement around this to do communication. The
strap-on devices only talk to the TV remotes. The Sharp IR devices that were
purchased last quarter are compatible with the Newton internal IR devices, and
can be hung off of the Delphi machines, which would allow us to communicate as
well as receive positioning data. There is a problem though.

First, the devices have a 1 meter range. This means that positioning data
will no longer be able to be delivered from the ceiling in the GVU, unless the
individual was extremely tall.

Secondly, if we use Sun terminals to provide a Client/Server environment, we
would need a Sun terminal for each positioning source. The ideal solution
would be to get a board that would allow us to hang multiple IR devices off
of a single Sun terminal, and then configure the terminal for multi-processes.
So, can we get the card?

Maybe we should discuss this on Friday. Between now and then, I believe we
should plan on using the Sharp/internal Newton IR devices, and try and get
Greg or Chris to come up with the card for multiple RS-232 ports.

Rich

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