The Projects

Each project teaches new lessons in electronics and C++ coding.
Projects get more challenging as you learn new commands and components.
[Ages 12 - Adult]

Mood Lamp

Project 1

Learn how to build and program a Mood Lamp that turns on and changes colors when you turn the lights off.

This is the perfect C++ project for beginners. You’ll learn how to write your own computer program in the Arduino language (C/C++), and be introduced to beginner electronic components that will be used to build your Mood Lamp.

You will learn:

What are Comments and Variables?
What’s a Microcontroller?
How to write code that controls the LEDs.

Memory Game

Project 2

Program patterns of LEDs to deliver a sequence that you will have to memorize and recite back. Get it right 10 times, and the game levels up with faster patterns!

This is another great C++ project for beginners because you will learn more programming basics such as constants, functions, random numbers, and musical notes... all in one project!

You will learn:

Randomizing Ouputs
Arrays and Functions
Generating Sounds - Frequency Maniuplation

Distance Detector

Project 3

Learn how to use an ultrasonic sensor to build a distance detector that determines the distance of an object just like bats do.

Using echolocation, bats bounce sound waves off of nearby objects to find their way in complete darkness. With an Ultrasonic sensor, you can experience this first-hand!

You will learn:

How to use ultrasonic sensors
Detecting variable input values
How to troubleshoot with the serial monitor

LED Dice Game

Project 4

Push a button and roll a pair of (LED) dice!

Roll a 2, 7 or 12 to win! You will apply the skills you have been learning from the previous projects and put your programming knowledge to the test!

For this project, we cover:

Level 2 Wiring
Coding Challenge
If / Else Statements

Optical Theremin Kit

Project 5

This Optical Theremin Kit will teach you how to build an instrument that can be played without being touched. This optical visually senses a person's hand to generate and modify a tone.

Building this C++ project will introduce you to new components like a potentiometer. You also will be challenged to take your programming to the next level by filling in the blanks with correct value or variables.

For this project, we cover:

Using a Potentiometer

2-Player Reflex Game

Project 6

Create a device that tests and measures your reflexes! Test your reflex time against your friends to see who has the fastest hands.

In this C++ project, you’ll learn about the electrical concept of the floating pin, as well as how to program your own functions and how to calculate elapsed time.

For this project, we cover:

Downloading Code
Using pull down and pull up resistors
Level 2 Functions

18 Projects Total

Are available in the Electronics & Programming curriculum
Get ready to cover more breadth and depth than many 4-year college programs!