Video Game Controller using Bluetooth Technology

Student: Brian Mak

Supervisor: Marek Bialkowski

Category: Engineering Thesis Project - Communications

The objective of this project is to make a wireless communication bridge between a computer and a video game controller. Bluetooth technology uses radio frequency to transmit signals, therefore, video game controllers can communicate wirelessly at a non line-of-sight condition within 10 meters.

The progression to wireless control has been the standard evolution for nearly all entertainment appliances, but adoption in video game systems has been hindered by the lack of ability to fulfill the intense requirements that a next-generation console and game player demand.

Bluetooth technology was created to solve a simple problem: replace the cables used on mobile devices with radio frequency waves operating in globally unlicensed 2.4 GHz Industrial Scientific Medical Band (ISM) that is available worldwide. It also allows user devices to connect together to form a piconet. Radio frequency (RF) signals on the other hand, will reach the game system from any angle, and are capable of bouncing off of walls, ceilings, and people in order to reach their destination. With a RF signal, you can play a game while facing the opposite direction. You can even play from behind a wall.

Thesis Document (PDF)