Do I need to know GIS to utilize the weTable?
No. The weTable operates independently from GIS or any other public participation application. Although map-based activities for the weTable are extremely useful for visualization purposes. Modeling scenarios like CHARM are especially useful for participatory planning purposes. However, the weTable technology can be combined with any application to provide an interactive platform for participation.
Is this technology just for land-use planning professionals?
While the technology is an outstanding tool for land-use planning, it’s also extremely useful for marine spatial planning, group brainstorming, 2D and 3D visualization, and a variety of other public engagement activities. Keep in mind that the weTable is a public participation platform and it can be used for a range of hi-tech and low-tech uses.
Is this technology useful for municipal meetings?
Yes. It has worked in the past. Working with the Cape Henlopen Regional Plan, Ed Lewandowski, coastal communities development specialist with the Delaware Sea Grant College Program, incorporated the weTable into public forums on growth planning along the coast. Community members gather to weigh in on which areas they think are important to address, such as transportation, housing, agriculture, open space and recreation. Read more about this topic in this article.
How do I set up the weTable?
This video can guide you in the setup of your weTable. Keep in mind that your setup may be a little different depending on the equipment you are using.
How do I get configure the weTable to get it ready for use?
This video explains how to connect the wiimote and configure the light pen. Note: Sometimes trouble shooting is necessary.
Why is my wiimote not connecting to the laptop?
Initially, try to maintain the wiimote close to the laptop when connecting the wiimote to the laptop via Bluetooth. Make sure the lights at the bottom of the wiimote are blinking when attempting the connection. Your Bluetooth connection may also be the problem.
During calibration, my light pen only works on certain areas of the projected image, what am I doing wrong?
The wiimote has a 45 degree angle within which it operates. Therefore, the image that is being projected onto the tabletop must be within the 45 degree range of the wiimote in order for the pen to communicate the wiimote. Make slight adjustments to the placement of the wiimote, size of the image and placement of the tripod until and retry the light pen calibration.
Is the weTable setup expensive?
The weTable is an affordable tool that can be put together with a few commonly owned pieces of equipment such as a laptop, projector and table. The additional pieces of equipment that are needed to complete the setup are relatively inexpensive such as the wiimote, wiimote mount, tripod stand, smooth board license and light pens. Below is an example of average costs for these items.
wiimote≈$29.99
wiimote mount≈$19.99
Tripod Stand≈$79.95
Light pen≈$17.95
SmoothBoard 2 Single User License≈$29.99
Where can I buy the equipment for the weTable?
There is no ONE place where all weTable equipment can be purchased. Most or all of the pieces of equipment that are needed for the weTable can be bought in a variety of places. Visit out resources page to get started.
How do I learn to use the weTable?
There are a number of online videos that can help you get started but attending a training, workshop or conference is the most effective way to gain hands-on experience with the weTable. Check back often to learn about upcoming trainings, workshops and conferences on our events page.
When is the next weTable Conference?
Currently, a date has not been set but the organizers are anticipating an annual weTable conference so check our site often for updates.