The Basics of a Digitizer
A digitizer is a general term for any device that converts physical movement or data into a digital signal that a computer can understand. In the case of a whiteboard, a digitizer will usually consist of a few components:
- A sensor or tracker system that records the movements of the stylus or pen on the whiteboard surface
- A digitizing tablet, which is a flat surface that the sensor or tracker sits on top of
- A digital processing system that takes the data from the sensor/tracker and turns it into a digital signal that can be used by other devices like a computer
There are a few different ways to approach building a digitizer, and the right method will depend on your available resources, technical expertise, and budget.
Tracking Options
The first step is to decide how you want to track the stylus or pen on the whiteboard. Here are some options:
- Magnetically: Use a magnet in the stylus that interacts with sensors on the edges of the whiteboard
- Optically: Use a camera or sensor array to track the stylus’ movement on the whiteboard surface
- Electronically: Install a grid of wires under the whiteboard surface to track the stylus’ signals
Each of these methods has different advantages and challenges in terms of cost, complexity, and accuracy, so you’ll want to research the approaches that best suit your needs and budget.
Processing/Communication
Whether you go with a magnetic, optical, or electronic tracking system, you’ll need some form of processing electronics to translate the raw data into a format that a computer can understand.
This processing can range from relatively simple (e.g., for a magnetic system, making sure the sensor readings are calibrated and then translating the data into coordinates) to more complex (e.g., for an optical system, you may need to process images to enhance contrast or remove interference).
Once the data is ready, you will need to communicate it to the computer. This could be as simple as using a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector, or you may need to use a specialized digitizer board or develop your own.
Putting It All Together
Generally, the more accurate and precise you want your digitizer to be, the more complex and expensive it will be to create.
Home-made whiteboard digitizers can be made successfully, but depending on your needs, it may be more cost-effective to investigate pre-built tablets or digitizers designed for digital art or other purposes.
However, if you’re looking for a challenge and an opportunity to learn, building your own digitizer can be a rewarding experience!
