I use mobile devices in schools and during seminars. I have found that a mobile device document camera can be useful, especially when a dedicated document camera is not available. Devices can be projected using VGA/HDMI adapters, Apple TV, Chromcast, and AirServer and Reflector software. I put the document stands I make on white surfaces and use sheets of color 8" x 11" paper so I know where to place the object I want to project.
Top view of document camera, 14" wire grid, and zip ties with cutter.
I have some storage units in my garage composed of cubes made of 14" metal wire squares. There are corner connectors that hold them together. A few years ago I purchased two sets at yard sales for a few bucks each. However, some of the connectors were missing so I had eight single squares. Using zip ties and some plastic clippers I connected four pieces to make my first my first homemade document camera.
Once again when I went yard sale shopping yesterday,July 26, 2014, I found the unit above that was missing all but eight connectors. I purchased it since I knew I could make three document stands. It also included five cloth boxes, all for $3.00. When I arrived home I discovered the grid sizes were different that the white ones in my garage.
I now have three different grid sizes in the 14" frames. The white is 9 x 9 and blacks 5 x 5 and 8 x 8.
I found that when using the corner connectors I only need three frames. Smaller grid sizes on the sides and the larger on the top so the iPad can be moved without a grid line blocking the view. It is easily disassembled and stored when not needed.
