What is it?
This small screen lets you keep important information always visible. It attaches to a computer and can be configured to display any short text.
What problem does it solve?
It’s easy for important updates or statistics to be overlooked while using a modern computer, with many windows and tabs. This simple screen lets you concentrate on what’s important, such as commute alerts or upcoming calendar events.
Or you can use it as a source of delight and whimsy in your day, by showing short quotes, facts, or unusual words.
What was my role in it?
I made this device, using standard hardware components with a modified version of a SparkFun firmware.
The enclosure is diecast aluminum that I drilled and cut to accommodate its screen, USB port, and brightness dial.
How does it work?
It connects via USB to a computer, and presents itself as a standard serial port. You can use most programming languages (even a shell script) to place text on the second screen.
Backstory
I love the idea of deciding what’s most important in your life, and keeping it in your line of sight.