Pzr,

Close, and you get the cigar! Yes, it uses a simple pulse train in IR to represent the cannon shot. And, yes, you could modify the laser pointer to fire the same pulse string, and cheat, but the laser pointer (which also emits pulsed, not continuous output) would be easy for other players to detect.

Your best solution would be to build an IR laser (from an IR Illuminator (used with night vision systems) or high power emitter) which sends the same pulse string as your battle unit. Yes, you could even use your IR remote as a base. Couple of 555 timers and some caps and resistors, maybe a pass transistor for the high power diode, nothing to it really.

The big problem would be explaining to your oponents why you are running around the battle field pointing at thier tanks and avoiding becomming a tank obsticle (sp?) on the BF after being caught.......... LOL

Splat