An enthusiast has modified a popular Texas Instruments TI-84 graphing calculator by adding a Wi-Fi module for internet access and integrating ChatGPT. This is an impressive technical achievement, but it also raises concerns about potential cheating on exams.
How the Modification Works
In a video titled “I Made The Ultimate Cheating Device,” the ChromaLock YouTube channel detailed how to modify the TI-84 calculator, allowing it to connect to the internet via Wi-Fi and access the ChatGPT AI chatbot. Users can input queries directly using the calculator’s keyboard and receive real-time responses on the screen.
The modification began with an examination of the calculator’s communication port, typically used to transfer educational programs. The enthusiast then designed a custom printed circuit board, named the TI-32, with the Seed Studio ESP32-C3 Wi-Fi controller as the key component. This miniature controller costs about $5, and additional electronic components were installed to interact with the calculator’s system seamlessly.
Technical Challenges and Software Development
To reproduce this project, one would need a TI-84 calculator, the ESP32-C3 microcontroller, and other electronic components. The ChromaLock schematic for creating the printed circuit board is available online, but the process is quite complex and mainly suitable for tech enthusiasts. The creator faced several challenges, including voltage incompatibility and signal integrity issues. After multiple prototypes, he managed to integrate the modified board into the calculator without any visible external changes, making it nearly undetectable.
Special software was developed for both the microcontroller and the calculator, with the project’s source code publicly available on GitHub. The system emulates a second TI-84 calculator, allowing built-in “send” and “get” commands for file transfer. This feature enables easy downloading of a launcher that provides access to various apps, such as ChatGPT. Although the AI’s use is limited by the slow input speed on the calculator’s keyboard, we’ll keep you updated on any improvements.
Potential Risks and Ethical Concerns
In addition to ChatGPT, the device includes a built-in image browser that can access pre-prepared visual aids stored on a server. Text cheat sheets disguised as program source code can also be downloaded, and a camera function is reportedly in development, though details are still under wraps.
The enthusiast claims that this modified device can bypass standard anti-cheating measures, notes NIX Solutions. For example, the launcher can be loaded on demand, avoiding detection during memory checks by teachers. It may even disable the calculator’s “test mode,” which is designed to prevent cheating.
While this project showcases significant technical skills, using such modifications during exams would violate academic integrity. Educational institutions typically view this as a serious offense, which could result in disciplinary actions.