Learn how to use a rotary encoder with the new rotary encoder support built into CircuitPython!
Rotary encoders are a special kind of switch that convert the motion of the switch (clockwise or counterclockwise) into an output signal that can be used to determine what direction the knob is being rotated. When a potentiometer just won’t do, the rotary encoder steps up to save the day! Learn how to use the brand new rotary encoder support in CircuitPython 3.0 to easily work with your rotary encoder and CircuitPython board. This guide provides a simple example to test your setup and then shows you how to turn your rotary encoder into a volume control knob and play/pause switch for your computer!
Stop breadboarding and soldering – start making immediately! Adafruit’s Circuit Playground is jam-packed with LEDs, sensors, buttons, alligator clip pads and more. Build projects with Circuit Playground in a few minutes with the drag-and-drop MakeCode programming site, learn computer science using the CS Discoveries class on code.org, jump into CircuitPython to learn Python and hardware together, or even use Arduino IDE. Circuit Playground Express is the newest and best Circuit Playground board, with support for MakeCode, CircuitPython, and Arduino. It has a powerful processor, 10 NeoPixels, mini speaker, InfraRed receive and transmit, two buttons, a switch, 14 alligator clip pads, and lots of sensors: capacitive touch, IR proximity, temperature, light, motion and sound. A whole wide world of electronics and coding is waiting for you, and it fits in the palm of your hand.
Have an amazing project to share? The Electronics Show and Tell with Google Hangouts On-Air is every Wednesday at 7:30pm ET! To join, head over to YouTube and check out the show’s live chat – we’ll post the link there.
