Arduino

This step is an introduction to using the Arduino Hardware and Software. An Arduino is a type of microcontroller (and associated software) that is entirely open-source. This means anyone is free to use/modify these devices for any purposes. Great for hobbyists and entrepreneurs (For example, one of our commercial 3D printers is driven using an arduino).

Virtual Arduino

For this assignment you will be creating ANOTHER 3 breadboard circuits using the Circuit Emulator available on Tinkercad.

Create a new circuit like you did for the “Virtual Circuits” project. This time, you will choose the “Arduino” starters component set (drop-down menu on the right side of the screen).

Choose 3 of the sample projects (NOT the breadboard nor the neopixel ones). For EACH project, REWIRE the project properly using a breadboard (NOTE that the starting point for the projects has components simply wired directly together rather than using a breadboard).

On each circuit, check the Code tab and click ‘Blocks + Text’. This will give you a BLOCK PROGRAMMING view AND the native Arduino Code view. Compare the two and try to understand how the code works. Press “Start Simulation” to see what happens.

Physical Arduino

Once you are done three circuits modifications (KEEP them as you will need to hand them in), and you understand them, see Mr. Hogg to get an actual Arduino and associated components.

You will now use the Arduino IDE and code from the simulator (click the download symbol to get the code in a *.ino file format which can then be opened in the Arduino IDE).

SHOW MR. HOGG your circuits BEFORE plugging in the Arduino!

MORE information on using the Arduino Software and Hardware is available here!

Grove Creations

Once you are completed the above, you will need to get an Arduino with a Grove Shield. You will then create 3 creations that combine different input and output devices using the Grove connectors.