Intro to Arduino: Sensors and Input/Output

Want to get started with physical computing?

Learn to program an Arduino and interact with the physical world! In this class, we’ll cover an introduction to Arduino and learn how to manipulate outputs based on sensor inputs.

Topics covered

• What is Arduino?

• Software setup (IDE, how to program it, the Serial monitor)

• Reading schematics and Fritzing (wiring) diagrams

• Basics of breadboarding

• Blinking an LED

• Reading sensor input (with a light sensor)

• Controlling output (with a simple motor)

• Combining input and output, making the motor move in response to light

Materials

All students will receive a Sidekick Basic V2 Kit, which contains a starter pack of electronics components and sensors, including a breadboard, wires, light sensor, tilt sensor, LEDs, a motor, and more. Students will also receive a Sparkfun Redboard, which is an Arduino UNO-compatible board, unless you opt for the “bring your own” ticket.

Students should bring their own laptop and install some free software ahead of time:

• The Arduino IDE

• FTDI drivers (Mac / Windows / Linux)

Who should take this class?

Basic programming experience (familiarity with variables and loops) is assumed. No previous experience with hardware, circuits, or electrical engineering is expected.

OK, awesome, I want to join!

Please be ready to start at 1pm! We find that you will need this time to get through the whole class. Our classes tend to sell out about a week in advance so if you're interested, you may want to sign up early.