Developing applications that operate in the realm of the Internet of Things requires, in addition to the mastery of a programming language, an understanding of networking, an understanding of how to use different platforms, an understanding of basic electronic circuits, and a familiarity with databases. Owing to its built-in WiFi capability and its forty general-purpose input/output pins, the Raspberry Pi computer is the ideal device for teaching students how to write code that controls electronic circuits whether the code is executed from a keyboard attached directly to the Raspberry Pi or executed from a smart phone. One of the most popular programming languages in the world, Python, is installed with the Raspbian operating system. Several Python packages enable the programmer to write code that turns an LED or a buzzer, gets data from a sensor, controls motors, and so on.
Code tested on the Raspberry Pi 3 and the new Raspberry Pi 4
250+ homework problems ranging from short Python scripts to web site configuration projects
Circuit examples
Labs on measuring voltage, current, and resistance using a multimeter
Send a text message if the light level detected by an LDR circuit falls below a threshold
Send an email if motion is detected using a PIR sensor circuit
Use an ultrasonic sensor in a proximity alert circuit and make a phone call if an intruder gets too close
Use a GPS HAT to get waypoints and store them in a file
Use an analog to digital converter to read in data from sensors
Control a servo using classes
Upload data to the cloud
Learn how to access a database using SQL statements
Deploy a home monitor system that uses the Raspberry Pi Camera and a PIR sensor circuit. Upload pictures to a web server in the cloud and access the pictures on a web page.
Control a robot using a multi-threaded application
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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, TinyGO, or even use the Arduino IDE. Circuit Playground Express is the newest and best Circuit Playground board, with support for CircuitPython, MakeCode, 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 is every Wednesday at 7:30pm ET! To join, head over to YouTube and check out the show’s live chat and our Discord!
