Helping Kids with Coding For Dummies

Chapter 16

Programming Simple Electronics

IN THIS CHAPTER

Using code to program electronics

Getting started with micro:bit

Coding a simple gadget with your micro:bit

Adding external devices to a micro:bit

Learning to write code is a skill that young coders apply in many different ways. Creating apps and websites are some of the most familiar and visible digital products they can produce with their newfound skills.

You can also encourage them to use their coding talents in writing programs to control hardware devices, too! Hardware consists of electronics and other components such as motors, lights, and speakers. Controlled by code, the hardware can be constructed to build everything from robotic rovers and drones to wearable gadgets and musical instruments. This chapter guides you in helping kids create and code a simple electronic device. Using a micro:bit electronics board (or just emulating one on the computer), your young coder can build fun toys, gadgets, and games!

Gathering Your Hardware

The alarm project presented in this chapter can be completed on a computer without the ...