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Golf Simulator V2

Version 2 of my DIY Golf Sim has been a huge step up from my previous video. The biggest changes are un-interrupted nets, upgraded projector, and using Unistrut to pull on the screen for less wrinkles. Check it out on youtube or the write-up on my site for more!

Chuck

• 3 min read
Golf Simulator V2

Link to the video: Here

Hey there!

This is the written companion to my DIY Golf Simulator update video. I know the video format isn't everyone's favorite but a lot of the process is easier to show than explain.

This version 2 is to address some issues with version one, but I want to be crystal clear that this project is NOT intended to be end-game, best of the best, or even high-end. The project initially started with a projector found in the bulk trash pickup in my neighborhood and an attempt to make one of the cheapest simulators that was still playable. I ended up liking it so much that I am trying to iteratively upgrade the simulator. The upgrade was initially going to be just a new projector but after catching a snag on the net with my truck, and subsequently bending the top crossbar - I decided to rework the frame as well.

With that in-mind, this version 2 is not a complete redesign. The biggest change is using Unistrut to attach the screen to the 1"EMT conduit, which gives us slots to use to create tension to pull on the screen. The Unistrut also fits the conduit nicely and has added a lot of rigidity to the top bar - making the roll-up action smoother and the overall screen look better.

Goals for the project:

  1. Cheap
  2. DIY
  3. Iterative
  4. Biggest pain addressed before the next.

Summary:

I am using 90* angle steel bolted to my ceiling joists to support 2x pillow block bearings, below my garage door. I am using 2x 1" EMT Conduits inside of the pillow block bearings to form the cross bar, using the MakerPipe Threaded inserts. I am using Unistrut around the EMT conduit to connect the screen. I am using a half depth unistrut to weight the bottom of the screen. I am using a JackShaft Garage Door Opener attached to the EMT to roll up and down the screen. I am using some bungees and mini-carabiners to clip the nets to the unistrut and to each other.

Materials:

Amazon Affiliate links below give me a small commission if you decide to purchase one of the products. Thanks for your support!

Impact Screen Parts:

Golf Parts:

  • Hitting Mat $150: Amazon ( I tried to start with a smaller mat, but it moved enough to make me feel that this was worth upgrading early)
  • Interlocking Foam Exercise Mats to make Hitting Mat more comfortable on Elbows $20 : Amazon
  • Garmin R10 $425: Check Ebay and Reddit for this. Second Swing has one for $460 Amazon for $500
  • Optional: Callaway Pro Caddie Ball Shagger / Dispenser $40 : Amazon
  • Optional: Spotlight : Amazon

Projection / Simulator Parts:

These will vary a lot based on your hardware and setup needs

  • Projector : Epson Powerlite 2250U , I got mine on Facebook Marketplace for $200. Prioritize Lumens and low lamp hours.
  • Projector Mount $35: Amazon
  • Raspberry Pi 400 : $80 Amazon
  • I used an HDMI extender over Ethernet to connect the Rpi400 to the projector $25 Amazon
  • USB Wifi Antenna : https://amzn.to/3NCSbPb
    • Something with a large antenna like this will be better than a small form factor option. We are streaming high bitrate video and don't want any stuttering! Wired is preferred if possible.
  • I used a existing computer in my office to run my simulator software of choice, I'm not going to count that price here.
  • GSPro License : $250/year

Total: Really Depends on your setup but all in I'm close to $1600

Tools:

  • Metal Tube Cutter (to cut the emt) $10: Amazon
  • Franklin Sensors ProSensor M210 Best Stud Finder with 13-Sensors, Wood & Metal Stud Detector/Wall Scanner, Live Wire Detection - https://amzn.to/3Yxf38P

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