Building a Mobile Virtual Presence Device for under £135

Although clearly the height of sophisticated robotic telepresence, the components required to build your very own Mobile Virtual Presence Device (MVPD) need not break the bank.  

The standard MVPD, as demonstrated on The Big Bang Theory (left), contains a webcam, flat-screen display for live broadcast, external speakers, a  mobility platform and a shirt on a hanger, simulating a body.  A limp, floppy body.

The primary function of a MVPD is to provide remote access to its user, allowing them the luxury of remaining still, while maintaining a presence at meetings, conversations, appointments and any number of other interactions that require one's attention.  

Of course, there's no need to get too technical while considering a modest budget, so here're the components you need, as supplied by Amazon:

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Webcam and display

Adspec AdTab 7 Android 4.2 Dual Core Tablet PC (£64.99)

• Ultra Thin Lightweight 7inch Android Jellybean 4.2 Tablet PC
• Fast Cortex A-9 Dual Core 1.5GHz Processor, Dual Camera, 3G Compatibility
• 1024 x 600 Multi Touch Capacitive HD Screen, HDMI Port
• 1GB DDR 3 RAM, 8GB Memory
• Skype, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Angry Birds, Candy Crush, Fruit Ninja, Temple Run and many more apps

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External speakers

Logitech Tablet Speaker (£24.99) 

• Rubberized clip securely attaches the speaker to tablet 
• 3.5 mm audio cable plugs into the headphone jack 
• Up to eight hours battery life
• Fits easily into included travel case or laptop bag

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Mobility platform

Rampage Cross Country 1/12 Radio Controlled Scale Monster Truck (£34.99)

• Fully functional - Forward, Left & Right Turn Stop and Reverse
• Working lights for driving in the dark
• Adjustable wheel alignment
• 9.6V Rechargeable Ni-Cd Battery
• Rugged design and large tyres - 27Mhz

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Display mounting

Black PU Leather Case Cover for Adspec AAdTab 7 (£7.99)

• Cheap and cheerful
• Allows access to all buttons, controls and ports

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10M Duct Tape (£1.63)

• Strong & Reliable
• Permanent Adhesive
• 48mm x 10m

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Total spend: £134.59

Instructions

1. Attach tablet PC case to radio controlled car using duct tape (neatly).
2. Create a new Skype account for the MVPD.  This must be separate from your usual account.
3. Add regular Skype account name to new Skype account contacts.
4. Charge tablet PC and external speaker.
5. Install Skype app and log in.
6. Place tablet PC in case.
7. Attach speaker to top of tablet PC and plug into headphone socket.
8. Log into regular Skype account from office PC or laptop in desired location.
9. Accept contact request from MVPD Skype account.
10. Begin video call with MVPD account.
11. Ensure MVPD display is fullscreen.
12. Manoeuver MVPD to appointment location using radio controls and Skype for POV.
13. Converse remotely using your MVPD as proxy self.  
14. Return to base for power charging.