CES isn’t simply for big companies to showcase brand new hardware, it’s also a venue for the technologically gifted to demonstrate new and creative ways of using existing technology. Kicking off this years event is an incredibly impressive feat of engineering from modding guru Ben Heck. In the latest episode of his bi-weekly “The Ben Heck Show” he guides you through the complex process of turning an iPhone into a more game focused device by way of a new case.
[quote]”CES starts today, and I couldn’t think of a more fitting project than one that combines my love for video games with a device that many consumers are extremely passionate about. Sure, the iPhone is a great device for game play already, but I wanted to take it to the next level for the ultimate mobile gaming enthusiast.” – Ben Heck[/quote]
To successfully implement video gaming capabilities onto the smaller-footed iPhone, Ben first deconstructs an iCade®system that enables gaming on an Apple iPad® to integrate a scaled-down version of the circuitry. Then, by
connecting a PodBreakout board to a simulated battery, Ben borrows voltage from the iPad to enable the Bluetooth required to power the iPhone for mobile gaming purposes.
Ben wraps up the episode by showing viewers how to build the case and required controller components – from designing and routing the shell and laser button pads using an Epilog Laser Engraver to creating and printing buttons. The final result is a tricked-out innovative hand-held Apple iPhone gaming device. Show fans are invited to join the element14 community to send Ben a challenge for a future build, engage with community members, and enter for a chance to win the build from this episode.
As a special treat, Ben will be demonstrating this latest iPhone mod in a live streaming interview with Geoff Keighley, host of GT.TV. THis will take place Tuesday, January 10th at 2:15pm PST and will be followed by a live debate between Ben and Matt Bean of Mens Health magazine, on the benefits of robotics. You can check the full live stream as it happens at Spike TV or over at Gametrailers.
