BitBiters Technology Groups

A Wearable Computer may be considered a rather general term which can refer to any device from cellular phones to wrist watches, or even devices used by infantry soldiers. When I think of a wearable computer I instantly think of programming microcontrollers via a small cable running out of my sleeve, and visualizing 802.11 packets flying out of building as I walk down the street. Im sure my idea of wearable computing greatly differs from the masses, however this page will be devoting to creating my ideal wearable computing platform.

This wearable computer system will consist of a small Mini ITX (17cmx17cm) motherboard, with a PicoPSU power supply (120Watt version). The system will be powered by an array of Lithium Polymer battery packs (total supply=12V). All storage will be flash usb based. Flash USB storage is optimal in a wearable platform for many reasons; Power consumptions is very low, Solid state technology prevents any damage from shaking or dropping, And ofcourse this will make the filesystem easily upgradable by simple adding more thumb drives. The display of this system will employ the newest MyVu, MyVu Crystal. This new display boasts a 640x480 24bit color display which is encased in a slim stylish glasses type design. These are very lightweight and recharged by the usb port, which seems like the ideal solution for this system. I/O: I have recently come across an interesting one-hand keyboard solution. The Chordite keyboard seems like a very possible solution to my text input problem. I plan an building a prototype chordite, and will post the designs along the way (based on the 'Yet Another One-Hand Keyboard). I do however have some ideas brewing regarding a completely optical (and completely custom) text input system. As soon as the parts arrive, pictures will be posted of this prototype as well.

[06/01/2010] Mainboard: After a long break, we are now working on this project in full force. We aquired a new Acer Aspire One, which we will be using as the core of the system. NetBSD 5.0.1 was just installed on the netbook last night, and I feel it will be a perfect substitute for an embedded board. Initially the system will be housed in a thin backpack worn by the operator. More info to come soon!
[13/10/2009] New Display: We now have an AWESOME new monocular display for the wearable project graciously donated by the MyVu Corporation (http://www.myvu.com/Default.aspx). MyVu makes some amazing wearable displays. I personally own the MyVu Solo and the MyVu Crystals and would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a wearable display. So, I would like to give a very special thanks to Dan for enabling me to continue on with this project. Thanks DAN! PIC1 - PIC2
[15/01/2009] Mainboard: As may have been apparent to some, Mini ITX form factor is simply WAY to large for a wearable computer system. I am investigating other options for a main board, such as: PicoITX, gumstix, PDA etc. My requirements are; this device must have 'tv out' for easy compatibility with the HMD system (myvu crystal). Adding additional interfaces such as vga to tv will only further complicate the design and subsequencially make the entire system more awkward and heavy. The system must have very short boot up times. System must have USB host functionality for the one handed keyboard. Lastly the system must run a linux or bsd based operating system.

Have an idea of the perfect mainboard? Please send your thoughts!
wearable [at] bitbiters [dot] net