Try your hand at coding with electronics

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 Kit from 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

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).

FAQs

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

This course is for adults, but capable under-18s are welcome with an accompanying adult (all participants need their own tickets). Drop us an email at fab@madlab.org.uk to check.

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?

The MadFabLab is in the Northern Quarter in Manchester.

There are a number of options for getting to us by public transport.

By tram

The nearest tram stop is Shudehill, on the Bury–Altrincham and Rochdale–East Didsbury lines. For other lines, Piccadilly Gardens is the closest and we are just 5 minutes walk away from here.

By bus

The nearest local bus station is Shudehill/Thomas Street, for visitors coming from North Manchester. For other local buses, Manchester Piccadilly Bus Station is located just 5 minutes walk away. The nearest national bus station is the Shudehill Bus Interchange, although Chorlton Street Bus Station is 20 minutes walk away.

By train

MadFabLab is less than 15 minutes walk away from both Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Victoria train stations.

By air

From Manchester International Airport, there is a train station at Terminal 2 with regular trains to Manchester Piccadilly Train station which take approximately 35 minutes. Alternatively, taxis are available outside all terminals and will take roughly 30 minutes on a good day, costing around £25.

Getting to us by private transport

By car. If you are driving to reach us, there is limited on-street parking in the area. Alternatively, there is an NCP Car Park roughly two minutes walk away. Also, be warned that the Northern Quarter has a somewhat inscrutable one-way system so bring your sat nav.

Cyclists are always welcome and we have cycle storage next door at MadLab (36-40 Edge St).

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

Email us on fab@madlab.org.uk

What's the refund policy?

Please find MadLab's Cancellation Policy here.

This course needs a minimum of 10 people to run. Why not sign up and encourage a friend to come too?