Hardware requirements & buying guide
This guide lists recommended hardware for a reliable M2C2 build, with approximate AUD prices (retail varies — treat numbers as a planning budget). Prices were reasonable ballparks for Australia; check each store before you order.
Essential (minimum working mirror)
| Item | Recommendation | ~ AUD | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-board computer | Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, 8 GB RAM | ~$95 | Enough RAM for Chromium kiosk + Node + optional services |
| Storage | 32 GB+ microSD, Samsung PRO Endurance or similar | ~$20 | 24/7 wear resistance matters for always-on mirrors |
| Power | Official Raspberry Pi USB-C PSU (5.1 V, 3 A) | ~$15 | Prevents brown-outs under load |
| Video | HDMI cable (match Pi and TV ports; micro-HDMI → HDMI common) | ~$10 | Stable signal to the panel |
| Display | TV or monitor, 32” class typical for mirrors | varies | Larger = more readable at a glance |
Subtotal (without display): roughly ~$140 AUD for core Pi kit parts.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid random phone chargers for the Pi 4. Undervoltage causes throttling and SD corruption — the official PSU (or a known-good 5.1 V / 3 A USB-C supply) is worth it.
Optional but recommended
| Item | Recommendation | ~ AUD | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Touch overlay | Infrared touch frame sized for your panel (e.g. 32”) | $80–150 | Tap to dismiss, open settings, kid-friendly |
| Camera | Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 | ~$40 | Face recognition, presence, future features |
| Motion | HC-SR501 PIR sensor + jumper wires | ~$5 | Wake/sleep screen when someone is nearby |
| Microphone | USB mic, e.g. Fifine K053 (or similar cardioid USB) | ~$25 | Cleaner wake-word capture than cheap headset mics |
| USB hub | Powered USB 3 hub (if ports are tight) | ~$15 | Stable power for mic + peripherals |
| Case | Pi 4 case with heatsinks/fan optional | ~$15 | Thermal headroom behind the glass |
Smart home add-ons (optional)
| Item | Notes | ~ AUD |
|---|---|---|
| Philips Hue starter kit | Bridge + bulbs — easiest path for lights | ~$150 |
| Tuya smart plugs (4-pack) | Budget switches & plugs via Tuya/Smart Life | ~$40 |
Full build budget
A well-equipped build (Pi + SD + PSU + HDMI + touch + camera + mic + PIR + case), excluding the TV, often lands around ~$350–500 AUD. The display is usually the largest single cost.
💡 Tip: Buy the touch frame only after you confirm the exact viewable glass size of your mirror assembly — frames are sized to the visible panel, not the TV’s outer plastic bezel.
Where to buy in Australia
Use these retailers to compare stock (links are starting points — search each site for exact SKUs):
- Core Electronics — Australian Raspberry Pi supplier; boards, cameras, official PSU, HATs, kits.
- Jaycar Electronics — Nationwide stores; handy for PIR sensors, cables, USB hubs, bench supplies, same-day pickup in many suburbs.
- Amazon Australia — Often competitive on USB mics, HDMI cables, touch frames, and accessories (check seller ratings).
ℹ️ Note: Model names (for example Fifine K053) can change. Match the category (USB cardioid desktop mic) if the exact SKU is unavailable.
Troubleshooting (shopping)
I can only find Pi 5 — is that OK?
Often yes, but verify M2C2 release notes for your version: camera cable, OS image, and power differ from Pi 4.
Should I use SSD instead of SD?
USB SSD boot is supported on Pi OS for many builds and can improve longevity; SD + endurance is still the simplest path.
Touch frame does not align
Measure active display area diagonally and width × height in millimetres; reorder a frame that matches those specs.
Was this helpful?