How could your project be extended/improved in the future?
Although our original concept was to create a television adapter that would be able to connect to the GameBoy Advance unit, that idea was ultimately way beyond the capacities of any of the group members abilities. The current idea that the team has taken on, is a link that would allow the Gameboy Advance unit to connect to a PC. Once connected, various shareware programs and software created by aspiring developers could be run and used on the GBA device. Once our link has been created the possibilities are nearly limitless. Improvements could be to allow the link to be compatible with Apple computers and possibly even Linux desktop systems. One could even attempt to continue on with the creation of the television tuner our group once envisioned.

Are there any new project ideas that came up (even if entirely different from your current project, describe)?
During the design and research process of our project there were various ideas that arose. One idea was instead of creating games for the Gameboy Advance, why not create movies, music files and even music videos that would be stored on similar cartridges like that of the games and would be viewed in a similar matter. This concept would allow the GameBoy Advance to be a truly portable entertainment system that would be in the hands of millions of users. Another idea that was brought to the table had entirely nothing to do with the GameBoy Advance system at all. The idea called for placing touch screen menus at restaurants and diners. This concept would allow for the customer to essentially customize any order they desire as well as get a visualization of each item on the menu. It would be a fully interactive system that would increase patron happiness as well as allow for reduced service costs for the restaurant. The two ideas mentioned would be great to investigate and experiment with. Although they are not yet on the market, it is probable that both of these ideas were possibly considered or are in the works.

A list (links/contact info) of the valuable sources you have received support from (sponsors/vendors/donated parts/tech support/...) + a short description for each such source of how you were helped by their support.
If any support was to be mentioned, it would have to be the support given by our advisor. Compassionate and very understanding, he allowed for the group to refocus its ideas and try to concentrate and build upon what the group had step by step.

Any other information that will help future SD students when deciding and working on their own projects (info not already listed elsewhere on your project website).
To all future Senior design students:
Senior year should be your most memorable and fulfilling year. It is the icing on the cake of your hard work and dedication towards your engineering education. When selecting individuals for your team try not to partner up with close friends or buddies, yes, they have been in the same boat as you, but you will not be able to be as focused and concentrated as you should be. Instead, try working with new people who may offer new ideas or bring something different to the table. It will save you time and a lot of stress. As for selecting a project, try not to bite off more than you can chew. Select a project that would allow for your engineering skills to be challenged. Pick a project that everyone would be interested in and for the most part, fun to work on. We all know that boring projects are never fun. Always remember to keep up with a schedule as well as make all necessary deadlines. Senior Design should be fun and should allow for all of your creative engineering juices to flow. After all, making it to senior year is an achievement within itself, but showing the fruits of your labor is even better. Take care and the best of luck to all future Senior Design groups.

Steven Diaz
Computer Engineering
Class of 2004