Learn all about the Arduino (a programmable circuit board and software) and how it can be used to build imaginative projects.
This workshop will start at the beginning, introducing the Arduino and explaining why it’s such a big deal, walking you through the creation of many basic electronic projects and catapulting you into the world of making, prototyping and creative technology invention.
Over the years Arduino has been used to make all kinds of things, from tiny wearables to large-scale interactive installations. Here are a few of our favourites:
- LEAP. A live-action game which pits players against a laser-equipped robot security system gone rogue
- Rachael Moat (Arduino Manchester) creates prototypes which encourage children with severe communication and learning difficulties to interact with the world around them
- Ardu-Sat, a “low-cost space research platform”
- Analogue Synthesizer hacking, with Arduino and Moog
Versatile, beginner-friendly, and above all fun, this workshop will give you an insight into how to get started with your own excellent digital-physical projects!
The course fee covers the day’s workshop tuition, as well as the cost of an ARDX Experimentation Kitfrom Oomlout (worth £62!), containing an Arduino Uno (Classic) and all the wires and electronic components (LEDs, sensors, motors, buttons) you need to carry on tinkering at home!
Who is this course for?
This is an entry-level workshop, for those new to electronics prototyping, writing software, and potentially both.
Basic computer skills (opening software, editing files and so on) are required, and some programming experience (e.g. Javascript or Python) would be useful but not essential.
Equipment you’ll need
You will need a laptop running a recent version of an Arduino-compatible operating system such as Windows, Linux or Mac OS X. Make sure it’s got a working USB port to connect and program the Arduino.
Lunch isn’t provided on this course, but you’re welcome to bring a packed lunch with you. Or try out one of the tasty and varied eateries on our doorstep.
What will you learn?
- How to connect and configure an Arduino Uno, and upload programs to it
- How to use a breadboard to prototype circuits, and interact with components through software
- What different kinds of components exist and how to use them
- How to communicate between an Arduino and your computer
- How to expand your Arduino, and where to find devices, support, and inspiration for new projects
Lunch
The course will break for an hour at lunchtime. Please feel free to bring a packed lunch or there are plenty of nearby lunch options in the Northern Quarter.
About MadFabLab
MadFabLab is an open-access workshop for Manchester’s hackers, makers, and tinkerers – whether actively curious, seasoned anti-disciplinarian, or any/all points in between – providing shared tools and space to create amazing new things, play and experiment with new technology, and meet and collaborate with others.
Booking your place
For your convenience, we offer a number of ways to book:
- Book via Eventbrite
- Invoice or PayPal – by phoning 0161 839 6324 or emailing fab@madlab.org.uk
- Payment by cheque – made out to MadLab CIC, and sent to MadLab 36-40 Edge Street, Manchester M4 1HN
- We also accept card payments in person
Please find MadLab’s Cancellation Policy here.
Your Tutor
Kevin Ingham is a jack-of-all-trades technologist, having worked in higher education for over a decade in a myriad of disciplines; from electronic musician, to video editor, to creator of learning technology facilities, to passionate communicator and educator of all things new media. A lifelong maker of things and breaker of things (the best way to figure out how they work, right).
