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Unread 27-07-2008, 21:42
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DonRotolo DonRotolo is offline
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Re: Inventing a wireless button pushing device for a taxi driver

You can get a really cheap R/C transmitter and 'vehicle' with at least one servo from Radio Shack for very cheap, maybe $30-40. If you optimize the antennas (position them parallel to each other, with minimal metal in between) 100 feet shouldn't be a problem.

Thinking outside the box, consider using wires. 100 feet or 24 gauge speaker wire is very cheap, make it weatherproof and as he gets into the taxi to actually drive to the call he can toss it out the window, awaiting his return. Or maybe protect it somehow, but the key is don't be afraid of wires - perhaps as an inexpensive test only... Press the button, a slow motor (or a weak solenoid) pushes a "finger" against the touchscreen. Power by wall wart, simple pushbutton, some kind of clip-on holder in the van...

Don

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