1. Computers:

• How many computers does this run on?
• What are their specs (RAM, CPU, storage, graphics card, etc.)?
• Do they need to communicate?
• What types of network connections do they have (WiFi, gigabit ethernet, etc.)?
• Do they need any peripherals (mouse, keyboard, Wiimote, Kinect, etc.)?
• What types of peripheral connections do they have (USB, Firewire, Bluetooth, etc.)?

2. Media

• What’s your storage medium (hard drive, SSD, optical disc, etc.)?
• What’s your backup strategy (RAID, Time Machine, disk image, spare drive or optical disc, etc.)?
• Will there be an attendant present in case the computers crash?

3. Video

• How is the video being presented (projector, LCD, CRT, LED wall, etc.)?
• Is there live video input?
• Does it need to be recorded?
• What kind of cameras are you using (webcam, industrial, DV, DSLR, etc.)?
• Do they have a usable “live view” mode?
• How are they connected to the computer (Firewire, USB, analog, etc.)?
• Do they have manual focus/iris/white balance?

4. Audio

• How is the sound being presented (built-in speakers, external amplifier, stereo, 5.1, etc.)?
• Is there live sound input?
• Does it need to be recorded?
• What kind of microphones are you using (shotgun, contact, cardioid, lavalier, etc.)?
• How are they connected to the computer (Firewire, USB, analog)?
• Do they have manual gain control?

5. Sensors

• What other types of live input do you need (light, temperature, vibration, tilt, acceleration, etc.)?
• How is the data being presented?
• Does it need to be recorded?
• Can you find commercial products that fit your budget, or will you need to make your own sensors?
• How are they connected to the computer (Arduino, MakingThings, serial port, etc.)?
• What external hardware controls do you need (on/off switch, gain, threshold, status lights, etc.)?