How about some conductive paint attached to surface mount LEDs and set up to simulate logic gates? Interactive and instructive, if not extremely visually appealing. I'd be willing to do a mini proof of concept at home and then propose a larger installation if feasible. Dean On Saturday, August 20, 2016, Brian L. Stuart via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic@lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote:
On Thu, 8/18/16, Evan Koblentz via vcf-midatlantic < vcf-midatlantic@lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org <javascript:;>> wrote:
I'd like to put some kind of large, nice-looking, interactive exhibit on the wall in the hallway by our museum. Perhaps something that shows how data is created, processed, and outputted in an electronic digital computer, regardless of whether it's a modern system or an old one. Something where kids can press a button, watch the circuit make a decision, and follow along as the lights change leading to some result.
Looking for serious/constructive feedback from people who are willing to actually do work. That should narrow the replies. :)
Looks like you narrowed the replies beyond your wildest expectations, Evan. :) Although it's a little different than what you described, I've been thinking about something along these lines for the hallway at the university based on the ENIAC simulator. I'm still contemplating the details, but the hardware would amount to a big screen TV, a Raspberry Pi, and some buttons.
It may not be visually stimulating enough, but maybe it'll solicit some other ideas.
BLS