Low Power Wireless Communication Between Musical Instruments and Controllers

Abstract

This report treats the application of low power wireless communication technology to applications within musical instruments and their controllers. Wireless solutions have been widely adopted in almost all aspects of modern life. WiFi networks and cellphones are natural parts of everyday life. This revolution has not influenced most musical instrument manufacturers and their products. Within research groups there are being carried out experiments with wireless controllers, but this mainly applies to body sensors. In this report a short introduction to available technologies within low power wireless standards, and protocols for interfacing of musical instruments is given. Possible application areas of these technologies is being presented including the use within conventional electronic controllers and more exotic controllers like augmented acoustic instruments, new controllers unrelated to existing musical instruments and body sensors for interactive dance. Some restrictions that will limit the applicability of wireless technology is found, including power consumption, protocol complexity, data transmission rate and energy consumption. The findings show great opportunity for the use of wireless connectivity within the field of controllers for musical instruments. Further work will involve more detailed studies of the performance limits that the demand for low power and device cost carries.