Our Curriculum
Each project teaches new lessons in electronics and C++ programming.
Projects get more challenging as you learn new commands and components.
[Ages: 12 - Adult]
Infrared Security System
Project 13
- Passive infrared sensors (or PIR sensors)
- False positives
- The modulo operator
Infrared Security System
Project 13Build a device that uses a infrared sensor to sound an alarm when someone walks by.
In this project, you'll learn about using a specialized sensor (PIR sensor) that can detect changes in infrared light. These changes in infrared light are changes in heat, and so infrared sensors are a common way of determining if there is a person in a given area. This is another common method for things like automatic doors to determine whether they should open or close. You'll also learn about things like false positives as well as how to use the modulo operator.
Wireless Control Center
Project 14
- Using a radio transceiver
- Radio waves
Wireless Control Center
Project 14Build a device that can wirelessly receive and send information about your Infrared Security System project from last month.
In this project, you will be introduced to radio waves, which are the basis for wireless communication. Things like Wi-Fi, bluetooth, or just plain or radio stations use these to send and receive information.
Laser Tripewire Transmitter
Project 15
- Using a laser diode
Laser Tripewire Transmitter
Project 15Put together a device that can detect whether or not something has passed through a laser pointer.
In this project, you'll extending your wireless control center and infrared security system projects from the last two months. You'll be adding another security measure that detects whether or not something has passed through a laser pointer.
Alarm Clock
Project 16
- Using a real time clock module (RTC)
- Multiplexing
- How computers keep track of time
Alarm Clock
Project 16Build your own digital alarm clock that keeps the accurate time even when unplugged.
In this project, you'll learn about how computers keep the time accurate, as simply counting milliseconds isn't the most accurate method. You'll also be learning about a new type of display that is very common for display numbers.
RFID Reader
Project 17
- Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) readers
- EEPROM
- SPI - Serial Peripheral Interface
RFID Reader
Project 17Build and program your own RFID Reader. This device can read a master keycard, as well as authorize or deactivate a keycard.
This project is something you'll see everywhere. Most commonly, the tap function on your credit card, or keycards that open doors in buildings.
FM Tuner
Project 18
- Using an FM tuner module
- More on radio frequencies
FM Tuner
Project 18Learn how to build and program a device that can scan your local radio stations and listen to them with an aux cable.
In this project you'll be learning more about radio frequencies, and how to scan for them. You'll make your own functional radio, just like the one in your car.