Description:

In this class, students of all levels will learn how to program and use an Arduino, an easy-to-learn open source microcontroller board that takes all sorts of sensor inputs, follows user-generated programs, and outputs data and power to the world. Arduinos are commonly used in robotics, mechatronics, and all manners of electronics projects around the world, and are supported by a huge community of people.

Class Goals:

In this class, students will learn how to create, test and upload programs to the Arduino from their own computers. Students will also learn the basics of attaching input and output devices to the board, such as buttons, knobs, sensors, lights, motors, et cetera.

Prerequisites:

None.

Materials:

Students can buy Arduino boards and supplementary cabling from the instructor for $30 or bring their own. It is recommended that students bring their own laptop (Mac, Windows or Linux with at least one USB port); five laptops will be available for use in the class. Students will also be able to purchase solderless breadboards and jumper wire kits during class ($5 - $9); a small number will be available to be borrowed during classtime. Various electronic components will be provided.

Instructor Biography:

David is a software developer with a long previous career as a technical artist in the video game industry. He has been an avid Arduino user for several years and is just about to release his own GameBoy-like Arduino 'shield' (expansion board) kit. David is also an amateur (in the original sense, one who does something for the love of it) dabbler in robotics, electronics, metalworking and a variety of other artistic media.