Improved Smart Mirror Build

I recently built a smart mirror using a Raspberry Pi 4 and a two-way mirror. The project is uses MagicMirror² software, which provides a customizable interface for displaying information like time, weather, news.

Components

MagicMirror² Modules

Core Modules

Third-Party Modules

Steps to Build

  1. Install MagicMirror²: Follow the installation guide to set up the software on your Raspberry Pi.
  2. Configure Modules: Customize the modules you want to display, such as weather, calendar, and news. You can find a list of available modules here.
  3. Set Up the Hardware: Assemble the two-way mirror with the monitor and frame. Ensure the monitor is positioned behind the mirror for optimal visibility.
  4. Connect the Raspberry Pi: Connect the Raspberry Pi to the monitor and power it on. Make sure it boots into the MagicMirror² interface.
  5. Final Adjustments: Adjust the settings in the config.js file to customize the appearance and functionality of your smart mirror.
Smart Mirror Overview

The insides

Mirror fail

Soo... was hoping to use these right angle usb connectors to keep all the cables inside but that didn't go as planned.

Mirror fail

Did not realize the micro hdmi was in the opposite orientation as on the RPI4... whoops.

Mirror fail

Mirror Border to fill the empty space and add support for the 2 way mirror.

Mirror fail

I put these white packing material around the monitor to help center it in the frame.

Mirror fail

Sealing the whole thing up with nails. I wish I had a better way but oh well! It works ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Mirror fail

Still came out clean! :)

Key Takeaways

  • This was a fun project that uses a Raspberry PI to create a functional smart mirror that I use daily.
  • Using a modern Portable Monitor, I think is the way to go, since it’s already low-voltage and excellent viewing angle compared to older screens.
  • Using actual glass would have been better, since the acrylic has a slight clown mirror effect, but that would have been much more expensive.