Arduino 101 & Intro to DIY Electronics

Registration is required before attending this class!
Member price: $45

Join us at SnoCo Makers for an exciting workshop where we will delve into the world of DIY electronics. In this hands-on session, we will explore the basics of The Arduino platform and how to use it in your own projects. Whether you are a newcomer to the maker scene or a seasoned DIY enthusiast, this workshop is perfect for all skill levels.

Come learn about the fundamentals of microcontrollers, the Arduino ecosystem, computer programming and basic electronics in a fun and welcoming environment. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the process of setting up an Arduino and creating some simple projects. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and connect with fellow makers in our vibrant community. You will learn:

### Intro to Ardunio and Electronics

• What Arduino is – What Arduino is, the different types of Arduino boards (e.g., Uno, Nano), and the basics of how microcontrollers work.
• Parts, Components & How to Prototype Electronics – Briefly introduce common components: LEDs, resistors, capacitors, potentiometers, sensors, and jumper wires.
• Basic Electronics - Simple circuit principles like current, voltage, and resistance. How to use a multimeter to measure these.
• Schematics - How to reading basic electronics schematics

### Coding Concepts

• How to setup the Ardunio environment and use it to program firmware (code) into the Arduino
• Variables and Data Types – Explain basic data types (int, float, bool) and how to declare and use variables.
• Control Structures – Introduce `if` statements and `for`/`while` loops. A good practice is to pair coding concepts with physical outcomes (e.g., blink an LED a set number of times).
• Functions – (e.g., `setup()` and `loop()` in - Arduino) and the idea of reusable code for modularity

### Digital I/O (Input/Output) Basics

• Digital Output – Use LEDs and show how to control them.
• Digital Input – Use pushbuttons to control LEDs, introducing the concept of input states (HIGH vs. LOW).
• Debouncing – Introduce the concept of debouncing for buttons.

### Sensor Basics

• Basic Sensors – Use a temperature sensor, photoresistor, or ultrasonic sensor to read environmental data.
• Reading Sensor Values – Show how to interpret values from sensors and make decisions with `if` statements.

Together, we will build a temperature-based thermal warning system that you can take home.

A Windows laptop that you can install software on is highly suggested, but we can provide you one if you don't have one. Materials are provided, and included in the cost of the class.