Varun K. created a sprawling, unconventional video wall using 35 old Chromebooks, controlled by a single Raspberry Pi. He leveraged the Chromebooks' existing screens and minimal onboard processing, creating a distributed system where the Pi sends individual frames to each Chromebook over Wi-Fi. While acknowledging performance limitations like noticeable latency and occasional frame drops, Varun highlights the project's simplicity and low cost, achieved by repurposing readily available hardware and open-source software. The result is a functional, albeit quirky, video wall capable of displaying images, videos, and even simple animations across its unconventional canvas.
The blog post "A vending machine, on the internet" explores the concept of building a virtual vending machine using readily available web technologies. It details the author's project, which combines a physical interface (buttons and a display) with a web backend to simulate a real-world vending machine experience. The project uses a Raspberry Pi to control the physical components and communicates with a web server to manage inventory, process transactions, and deliver virtual "goods" like access codes or digital downloads. The post highlights the simplicity and accessibility of building such a project with tools like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Python, showcasing a fun and practical application of web development beyond traditional websites.
Hacker News users generally expressed enthusiasm for the internet-connected vending machine project. Several praised the creator's ingenuity and the "whimsical" nature of the project. Some commenters discussed the technical aspects, focusing on the use of a Raspberry Pi and the potential vulnerabilities of exposing such a device to the internet. Others shared similar personal projects, like controlling Christmas lights remotely. A few raised concerns about security and the practicality of the setup, questioning the real-world use cases beyond a fun experiment. There was also a short discussion about the cost-effectiveness of the hardware choices.
This project describes a method to use an Apple device (iPhone or Apple Watch) as an access card even with unsupported access control systems. It leverages the device's NFC capabilities to read the card's data, then emulates the card using an Arduino and RFID reader/writer. The user taps their physical access card on the RFID reader connected to the Arduino, which then transmits the card data to an Apple device via Bluetooth. The Apple device then stores and transmits this data wirelessly to the Arduino when presented to the reader, effectively cloning the original card's functionality. This allows users to unlock doors and other access points without needing their physical card.
HN users discuss the practicality and security implications of using an Apple device as an access card in unsupported systems. Several commenters point out the inherent security risks, particularly if the system relies solely on NFC broadcasting without further authentication. Others highlight the potential for lock-in and the difficulties in managing lost or stolen devices. Some express skepticism about the reliability of NFC in real-world scenarios, while others suggest alternative solutions like using a Raspberry Pi for more flexible and secure access control. The overall sentiment leans towards caution, with many emphasizing the importance of robust security measures in access control systems.
The blog post details the process of "softmodding" an original Xbox in 2023 using a JTAG exploit. While hardware methods like soldering a physical modchip are still possible, the author focuses on a software approach leveraging a readily available Xbox debug cable and a PC. This involves booting a specifically crafted exploit image via the debug cable to enable kernel patching and ultimately allow execution of unsigned code. The guide covers necessary tools, resources, and steps involved, including obtaining a suitable exploit image, configuring the Xbox, and transferring necessary files. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks and ethical considerations involved in modifying game consoles.
Hacker News users generally expressed appreciation for the blog post's detailed walkthrough of the Xbox JTAG hacking process. Several commenters reminisced about their own experiences modding original Xboxes, highlighting the nostalgia factor. Some discussed the nuances of the different modchips available and the evolution of Xbox modding over time. A few users also offered additional technical details and corrections, pointing out specific aspects of the process or clarifying information presented in the blog post. One commenter discussed the legal implications of downloading copyrighted Xbox games. Overall, the comments reflect a positive reception to the article, with a mix of nostalgia, technical discussion, and practical advice.
Summary of Comments ( 9 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43221697
HN commenters were impressed by the author's ingenuity and dedication to the project, with several praising the "janky" yet functional nature of the setup. Some questioned the practicality and cost-effectiveness compared to purpose-built video wall solutions, noting potential issues with synchronization and performance. Others discussed alternative approaches, including using Raspberry Pis or older hardware, and offered suggestions for improvements like utilizing a more robust synchronization mechanism or exploring different software solutions. A few users shared their own experiences with similar projects, highlighting the challenges and rewards of DIY video walls. There was also some lighthearted banter about the "unhinged" nature of the project, embracing the unconventional approach.
The Hacker News post discussing "The most unhinged video wall, made out of Chromebooks" generated a number of comments, mostly expressing fascination and amusement at the project.
Several commenters focused on the practicality and cost-effectiveness of the setup. Some questioned the choice of Chromebooks, suggesting that smaller, cheaper single-board computers like Raspberry Pis would be a more suitable and economical alternative. They pointed out the relatively high cost of Chromebooks compared to these alternatives, especially considering the limited processing power needed for simply displaying video tiles. Discussions around power consumption and heat dissipation also emerged, with users speculating about the overall efficiency of the system.
The unconventional and "unhinged" nature of the project was a recurring theme. Commenters appreciated the creator's ingenuity and willingness to experiment, using terms like "mad genius" and "glorious hack." The visual impact of the video wall, particularly its size and the synchronization of content across multiple screens, was also highlighted.
Some commenters delved into the technical aspects, discussing the software and hardware involved in synchronizing the Chromebooks and displaying video across them. They explored potential improvements and alternative approaches, including using specialized video wall controllers or distributed rendering techniques.
A few comments touched on the potential applications of such a setup, ranging from artistic installations and public displays to monitoring dashboards and gaming setups. However, the general consensus seemed to be that the project was more of a fun experiment than a practical solution for most use cases.
Finally, several commenters expressed interest in seeing more details about the project, including the specific hardware and software used, the configuration process, and the challenges encountered during the build. This curiosity reflects the overall positive reception of the project and the community's appreciation for creative and unconventional technical endeavors.