Two Can String Talk

Talking over two cans (or cups) and a string actually works. It is necessary to keep a tight string between the two ends, usually requiring a direct line. So long as the string is tightly secured, it will carry voice data.

Example setup:

Prerequisites:

  • 2 people
  • 2 paper cups
  • 1 long non-stretchable string (e.g. kitestring)
  • 1 hole puncher (needle, awl, etc)
  • tape or good knot tying skills

Method:

  1. Punch a small hole in each of the two cups or cans
  2. Pass one end of the non-stretchable string through the hole in each container
  3. Tape or knot the string inside the cup so it will not pull through the hole
  4. Holding the cups, the two people spread apart until the line is straight and tight
  5. Talk

References

  1. Can two cans and a string really be used to talk over a distance?: https://science.howstuffworks.com/question410.htm