Robots and Physical Computing

DIY Data Science: A Complete Guide to Data Logging with the Micro:bit V1 Whether you are a STEM teacher looking for a classroom lab solution, a parent seeking a weekend project, or a maker building an environmental monitor, the Micro:bit V1 is a hidden gem for data logging. While the newer V2 has built-in logging memory, the V1 is incredibly capable when paired with a computer. By using the Serial (USB) Connection and Radio Communication , you can turn these pocket-sized boards into useful sensors. The Equipment List To get started, you will need: For Local Logging: 1x Micro:bit V1. 1x Micro-USB cable (high quality, data-capable). A computer with a Chrome-based browser (to use the WebUSB feature in MakeCode). For Remote Logging: 2x Micro:bit V1s. 1x Battery pack (2xAAA) for the "Remote" Micro:bit. 1x Micro-USB cable for the "Receiver" Micro:bit. Optional (For Experiments): A strong magnet (to test the Compass/Magnetometer (see later in this post). A flashlight (to ...

Producing a data logger using the microbit to detect and log changes in the magnetic field. Traces The micro:bit includes a built-in compass that can also be used as a magnetic field detector . With a small amount of code, we can use this sensor to measure changes in the magnetic field and log the data to a computer . If you are new to this idea, a useful introduction is the video from Mr Morrison below, which explains the basic concept. The video demonstrates how the micro:bit can detect magnetic fields and display the readings on the device itself. Let’s extend that idea by turning the micro:bit into a data logger that continuously records magnetic field changes . Coding and Sending data to a Computer Instead of displaying the magnetic readings directly on the micro:bit’s LEDs, we can send the data through the USB cable to a computer . The MakeCode editor already provides blocks that allow data to be sent using the serial connection . By placing the magnetic measurement inside a c...

Ok, no surprise that I enjoy playing with Generative AI :-) A few of the recent posts are around this. Here is the question, though: what does Generative AI pick out from the blog when asked? Using the Gemini and the following two prompts: Prompt 1:  Go to the following blog https://robotsandphysicalcomputing.blogspot.com/ read it in and summarises it as a 400 word blog post to go on the blog and urls will not count in the word limit Prompt 2: Embed urls to make it easier for the reader to access the posts The result Exploring the Intersection of Code and Hardware: A Look at "Robots and Physical Computing" Welcome to a comprehensive overview of Robots and Physical Computing , a dedicated space where the digital realm directly meets the physical world. Authored by Dr. Scott Turner, this blog operates on a delightfully simple yet profound premise: getting computers to interact with their physical environment is incredibly fun. It serves as an ongoing digital notebook that docum...

Have you ever wondered how the traffic lights at the end of your street actually work? They aren’t just on timers; they are controlled by small computers. Today, we’re going to build and code our own traffic light system using a free online tool called Tinkercad . The best part? You don’t need to buy any expensive equipment. You can build the whole thing virtually on your computer. What is Tinkercad? Tinkercad is a free, web-based tool from Autodesk. While many people use it for 3D design, it also has a "Circuits" section where you can drag and drop electronic components—like batteries, LEDs, and micro-computers—to see if they work before building them in real life. The Project: The Micro:bit Traffic Light In this project, we use a BBC micro:bit (a pocket-sized computer) to control three lights: Red, Orange, and Green. To make this work, we connect the micro:bit to a "breadboard" (a plug-and-play board for electronics) or can get away with just wiring them togther ...

Build a Voice-Activated Smart Night Light: A Micro:bit IoT Project for the Home and Classroom Whether you’re a student looking for a cool weekend project, a parent wanting to spark a child’s interest in engineering, or a STEM maker exploring Internet of Things (IoT) concepts, the Elecfreaks Micro:bit Smart Home Kit  http://bit.ly/43ooJF  is a fantastic gateway. Smart home technology isn’t just for big tech companies; it’s something you can prototype right on your dining room table. In this post, we’re refining a project that mimics real-world smart building technology: a Voice-Activated Night Light. Why Build a Smart Night Light? (Project Motivation) In the world of professional engineering, the primary goal is often resource efficiency. We don’t just want lights that turn on; we want 'intelligent' systems that minimize energy waste. By building a light that triggers only when it is both dark and detects a presence (noise), students learn the basics of conditional au...