PRO Feature · Open Source Library

Arduino Projection Mapping Controller for Live Performances

Build your own physical controller with buttons, encoders and displays and connect it to 4mapper PRO via USB. Trigger projection mapping scenes in real time from custom hardware — designed for performers, makers and interactive installation artists.

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What you can do

  • Trigger scenes with physical buttons during a live show.
  • Use rotary encoders to adjust parameters in real time.
  • Add a small OLED display to show scene names or status.
  • Build a fully custom controller tailored to your performance workflow.
  • Connect via USB — no wireless setup required.

Why use a physical controller for projection mapping?

Triggering scenes from a keyboard or a mouse works, but a physical controller gives you faster, more intuitive access during a live performance. Custom hardware lets you design the interaction model that fits your show — dedicated buttons for each scene, a knob for transitions, a display for live feedback.

The 4mapper Arduino integration is designed for makers and performers who want to go beyond screen-only control without spending money on expensive proprietary hardware solutions.

Open source library

The communication protocol between your Arduino board and 4mapper is handled by a free, open source library. Flash it to your board, define your inputs and start controlling your scenes.

Compatible boards

Works with Arduino Leonardo, Micro, Uno and compatible boards. Also supports ESP32 variants with USB capability — ideal if you are already working with ESP32 in other maker projects.

Maker-friendly workflow

Build your enclosure, wire your components and flash the library. You only need the Arduino IDE, basic soldering skills and a USB cable to connect to 4mapper PRO.

Getting started with Arduino + 4mapper

  1. Upgrade to 4mapper PRO (€39 one-time).
  2. Clone or download the open source controller library from GitHub.
  3. Open the example sketch in the Arduino IDE and configure your inputs.
  4. Flash the sketch to your Arduino board.
  5. Connect via USB and assign buttons to scenes inside 4mapper.
  6. Trigger your projection mapping scenes with physical controls.

Use cases for hardware-triggered projection mapping

  • Live music performances with synchronized visual triggers.
  • Interactive museum or gallery installations.
  • Theatrical stage shows with scene-based switching.
  • Art installations where visitors trigger projection changes.
  • Workshop demonstrations and projection mapping tutorials.

Part of the 4mapper projection mapping ecosystem

VJ and live visuals

Combine Arduino control with the VJ software workflow for fully interactive live visual performances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Arduino with projection mapping software?

4mapper PRO supports Arduino-based USB controllers. You can build a custom device with buttons, encoders or a small display and connect it to trigger scenes in real time.

Do I need programming experience?

Basic Arduino IDE experience is enough. 4mapper provides an open source library on GitHub that handles the communication protocol, so you only need to define your buttons and actions.

Is the Arduino library open source?

Yes. The 4mapper Arduino controller library is available on GitHub under an open source license. You can find it at github.com/gargakk/4MapperController.

Which Arduino boards work with 4mapper?

Any Arduino board with USB HID or Serial support works. Common choices are Arduino Leonardo, Arduino Micro, Arduino Uno and compatible ESP32 boards with USB capability.

Is Arduino support available on the free plan?

No. Arduino controller support is a PRO-exclusive feature, available with the one-time €39 lifetime upgrade.

Build your first Arduino controller for projection mapping

Start free to explore the tool, then upgrade to PRO to unlock Arduino controller support and unlimited projects.

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