WIAnode Wireless Interactive Art Node (Compatible with TouchDesigner / Unity / Unreal / Max)

The WIAnode Wireless Interactive Art Node bridges physical sensors and actuators directly to creative software such as TouchDesigner, Unity, Unreal Engine, and Max over 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. Designed for media artists, creative technologists, educators, and makers, it delivers real-time physical interaction without requiring microcontroller programming, drivers, or external MQTT servers.

Direct sensor to software workflow

WIAnode streamlines physical computing by replacing complex microcontroller coding and external broker setups with an integrated local MQTT pipeline. Sensor readings are automatically processed and output as standardised data, allowing you to begin visual experimentation in minutes.

Simple text file Wi-Fi configuration

Network setup requires no dedicated apps, programming environments, or drivers. Connecting the node to a computer via USB Type-C opens it as a USB drive, where network credentials can be saved directly into a config.txt file.

Broad creative coding compatibility

A dedicated TouchDesigner plugin feeds incoming sensor data straight into visual parameters, animation systems, and projection mapping. The device also broadcasts structured JSON via MQTT for native use in Unity, Unreal Engine, Max/MSP, and vvvv.

Multi-node wireless deployment

Multiple nodes can run independently on the same Wi-Fi network with unique IP addresses, distributing physical interaction points across rooms or stage sets. Powering the device via a standard 5V USB Type-C power bank enables wire-free placement across installations.

Simultaneous multi-client data access

A single node can broadcast live interaction data to several computers or applications at the same time over your local network. This allows visual artists in TouchDesigner and interaction developers in Unity to work concurrently using the same live physical inputs.

Versatile sensor and servo connectivity

The board features two 4-pin PH2.0 I2C ports with auto-detection, four 3-pin PH2.0 I/O ports for triggers, touch sensors, and WS2812 LEDs, and two 5V 3-pin 2.54mm servo headers. This configuration supports both sensor data input and physical actuator control directly from software.

Interactive art and classroom applications

WIAnode is suited to interactive projection mapping, responsive kinetic sculptures, stage performances, and rapid prototyping. Media art educators can introduce physical interaction concepts without needing to teach low-level embedded electronics first.

Onboard OLED and visual feedback

A 0.91-inch OLED screen displays the current IP address and port configuration, with a dedicated wake-up button to conserve power. A colour-coded status LED provides immediate visual confirmation of network connection states.

Downloads & documentation

• Product wiki (DFRobot)