#Arduino interfacing

[satyakabireee]

https://dsmonline.in/product/lcd-16x2-blue-display-vmrtq

[neuphony9]

The EXG Synapse by Neuphony is an advanced device designed to monitor and analyze multiple biosignals, including EEG, ECG, and EMG. It offers real-time data for research and neurofeedback, making it ideal for cognitive enhancement and physiological monitoring.

[sensorembedded]

All electronic components are buy at reasonable price in sensorembedded.com

[stevebattle]

Roomba Sage (models 4105, 4110, 416) iRobot, Bedford, MA (2004). Sage is a member of the Discovery, or 400 series. Where the Roomba Red charges in seven hours, the Roomba Sage charges fully in just three. Roomba manufactured after October 2005, including those in the 400 series, include a Mini-DIN connector supporting the Roomba Serial Command Interface (SCI), later renamed the Roomba Open Interface (ROI). This interface, beloved by hackers everywhere, allows you to connect the Roomba to a small microcontroller like the Arduino, to monitor Roomba's sensors and override its normal behaviour. "Since the release of the SCI/ROI specification, there has been an explosion of new Roomba hacks. The Roomba hacking community has blossomed to include not just professional hardware engineers, but people from all experience levels, from normal people looking to play with their Roomba in a new way to academics experimenting with low-cost robotics. The ROI turns the Roomba into a true robotics platform." – Hacking Roomba, by Tod E. Kurt.

[adafruit]

Green Thumb Trinkey springs into existence 🌱💧🌞

With recent work to improve our soil moisture sensing, it could be a nice time to design an 'all-in-one' board for plant and garden hacking. This board has a USB C, so you can plug it right into your computer and read the capacitance of the soil, as well as the ambient light level and temperature + humidity of the onboard AHT20. A QT sensor and 'standard Stemma QT' mounting holes mean you can plug in a VOC, CO2, UV, or PM.2 sensor. The SAMD21E18 can run Arduino or CircuitPython, but we'll also ship it with an example that just spits out CSV data over the serial port for instant interfacing. Coming soon.

[draegerit]

CrowPanel Advance 7“ HMI von Elecrow – großes Display, großer Funktionsumfang

Mit dem CrowPanel Advance 7“ hat Elecrow ein spannendes All-in-One-Display im Sortiment, das nicht nur durch seine Größe auffällt. Das Touch-Display bringt alles mit, was man für moderne IoT- oder UI-Projekte braucht: Ein hochauflösendes IPS-Panel, einen leistungsstarken ESP32-S3 mit KI-Funktionen und zahlreiche Schnittstellen. Ich habe mir das Panel in den letzten Tagen genauer angeschaut – hier kommt mein erster Eindruck. https://youtu.be/mYx4jaoDOHQ Hinweis: Das hier vorgestellte Produkt – das CrowPanel Advance 7“ HMI – wurde mir von Elecrow kostenfrei für ein Review zur Verfügung gestellt. Der Beitrag spiegelt ausschließlich meine persönliche Meinung wider. Es gab keinerlei Vorgaben oder Einflussnahme auf Inhalt oder Bewertung.

Technische Daten – kompakt zusammengefasst

Hier die wichtigsten Eckdaten auf einen Blick: - Displaygröße: 7 Zoll IPS, 800x480 Pixel - Touch: Kapazitiver Touchscreen - Controller: ESP32-S3, Dual-Core, 240 MHz, mit KI-Unterstützung - Speicher: 16 MB Flash + 8 MB PSRAM - Schnittstellen: USB-C, GPIOs, microSD, Audio, Kamera-Port - Betriebssysteme/Sprachen: Unterstützt Arduino, LVGL, MicroPython und Meshtastic - Stromversorgung: 5 V via USB-C Diese Kombination macht das Panel zu einer interessanten Lösung für viele Anwendungen – ob als HMI (Human Machine Interface), Info-Terminal, DIY-Steuerung oder sogar als kleines Smart-Home-Display.

Ausgepackt und begutachtet

Das Panel kam gut verpackt bei mir an. Im Lieferumfang enthalten war neben dem Display auch ein passendes USB-C-Kabel sowie eine kleine Stiftleiste für GPIO-Anschlüsse. Das Gehäuse wirkt solide, die Rückseite ist sauber verarbeitet und bietet mehrere Befestigungspunkte, z. B. für den Einbau in ein Gehäuse oder Frontpanel. Was mir besonders gefallen hat: Trotz seiner Größe ist das Gerät erstaunlich leicht und flach. Das macht es deutlich einfacher, das Panel in eigene Projekte zu integrieren – z. B. in eine Steuerbox oder ein Dashboard.

Display & Touch – ein echter Hingucker

Das 7-Zoll-IPS-Display überzeugt direkt beim ersten Einschalten: Die Farben sind kräftig, die Blickwinkelstabilität ist hervorragend und die Auflösung ist für diese Größe völlig ausreichend. Auch der Touchscreen reagiert präzise und flüssig – so, wie man es von einem kapazitiven Panel erwartet. Es fühlt sich an wie ein kleiner Tablet-Bildschirm, allerdings offen für deine eigenen Ideen und Projekte.

Viel Power unter der Haube: ESP32-S3

Das Herzstück des Panels ist ein ESP32-S3 – ein leistungsfähiger Mikrocontroller mit zwei Kernen, 240 MHz Taktfrequenz und integrierten Funktionen rund um künstliche Intelligenz (KI). In Kombination mit dem großzügigen Speicher (16 MB Flash, 8 MB PSRAM) eignet sich das Gerät nicht nur für einfache UI-Anwendungen, sondern auch für Projekte mit Machine Learning oder Bildverarbeitung – zum Beispiel in Verbindung mit einer angeschlossenen Kamera.

Schnittstellen & Möglichkeiten

Ein Blick auf die Anschlussmöglichkeiten zeigt: Das Panel will mehr sein als nur ein Display. Neben USB-C (für Daten und Strom) sind auch ein microSD-Karten-Slot, ein Audio-Ausgang, ein Kamera-Port und eine GPIO-Stiftleiste vorhanden. Damit lässt sich das CrowPanel leicht erweitern und in größere Projekte einbinden – sei es zur Datenspeicherung, als Audioplayer oder zur Anbindung an Sensoren und Aktoren. Read the full article

[orbism]

heart beat driven cymatics, body suspension, live human being watching her heartbeat pulse through water suspended from a transducer connected to an arduino + analog interface which has her BPM as input.

"Biorhythmic" OS page: https://opensea.io/assets/ethereum/0xa03e3ba1da316edb748f80690d90c6c01803bb88/15

[ymishraofficial]

Top 10 Projects for BE Electrical Engineering Students

Embarking on a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) in Electrical Engineering opens up a world of innovation and creativity. One of the best ways to apply theoretical knowledge is through practical projects that not only enhance your skills but also boost your resume. Here are the top 10 projects for BE Electrical Engineering students, designed to challenge you and showcase your talents.

1. Smart Home Automation System

Overview: Develop a system that allows users to control home appliances remotely using a smartphone app or voice commands.

Key Components:

Microcontroller (Arduino or Raspberry Pi)

Wi-Fi or Bluetooth module

Sensors (temperature, motion, light)

Learning Outcome: Understand IoT concepts and the integration of hardware and software.

2. Solar Power Generation System

Overview: Create a solar panel system that converts sunlight into electricity, suitable for powering small devices or homes.

Key Components:

Solar panels

Charge controller

Inverter

Battery storage

Learning Outcome: Gain insights into renewable energy sources and energy conversion.

3. Automated Irrigation System

Overview: Design a system that automates the watering of plants based on soil moisture levels.

Key Components:

Soil moisture sensor

Water pump

Microcontroller

Relay module

Learning Outcome: Learn about sensor integration and automation in agriculture.

4. Electric Vehicle Charging Station

Overview: Build a prototype for an electric vehicle (EV) charging station that monitors and controls charging processes.

Key Components:

Power electronics (rectifier, inverter)

Microcontroller

LCD display

Safety features (fuses, circuit breakers)

Learning Outcome: Explore the fundamentals of electric vehicles and charging technologies.

5. Gesture-Controlled Robot

Overview: Develop a robot that can be controlled using hand gestures via sensors or cameras.

Key Components:

Microcontroller (Arduino)

Motors and wheels

Ultrasonic or infrared sensors

Gesture recognition module

Learning Outcome: Understand robotics, programming, and sensor technologies.

6. Power Factor Correction System

Overview: Create a system that improves the power factor in electrical circuits to enhance efficiency.

Key Components:

Capacitors

Microcontroller

Current and voltage sensors

Relay for switching

Learning Outcome: Learn about power quality and its importance in electrical systems.

7. Wireless Power Transmission

Overview: Experiment with transmitting power wirelessly over short distances.

Key Components:

Resonant inductive coupling setup

Power source

Load (LED, small motor)

Learning Outcome: Explore concepts of electromagnetic fields and energy transfer.

8. Voice-Controlled Home Assistant

Overview: Build a home assistant that can respond to voice commands to control devices or provide information.

Key Components:

Microcontroller (Raspberry Pi preferred)

Voice recognition module

Wi-Fi module

Connected devices (lights, speakers)

Learning Outcome: Gain experience in natural language processing and AI integration.

9. Traffic Light Control System Using Microcontroller

Overview: Design a smart traffic light system that optimizes traffic flow based on real-time data.

Key Components:

Microcontroller (Arduino)

LED lights

Sensors (for vehicle detection)

Timer module

Learning Outcome: Understand traffic management systems and embedded programming.

10. Data Acquisition System

Overview: Develop a system that collects and analyzes data from various sensors (temperature, humidity, etc.).

Key Components:

Microcontroller (Arduino or Raspberry Pi)

Multiple sensors

Data logging software

Display (LCD or web interface)

Learning Outcome: Learn about data collection, processing, and analysis.

Conclusion

Engaging in these projects not only enhances your practical skills but also reinforces your theoretical knowledge. Whether you aim to develop sustainable technologies, innovate in robotics, or contribute to smart cities, these projects can serve as stepping stones in your journey as an electrical engineer. Choose a project that aligns with your interests, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your professors and peers. Happy engineering!

[quartz-components]

The PAJ7620 is a highly capable gesture recognition sensor. It can detect a wide range of gestures such as up, down, left, right, forward, backward, and more. The sensor uses an array of infrared LEDs and a photodiode array to detect motion in its field of view. It communicates with a microcontroller (like Arduino) over the I2C interface, making it a versatile option for many gesture-controlled applications.

[crido11]

Essential Electronic Items for IoT and Electronics Enthusiasts

Are you diving into the world of Internet of Things (IoT) and electronics? Whether you are a seasoned engineer or simply beginning out, having a stable list of essential components is key to bringing your initiatives to existence. Here’s a curated list of electronic objects that each maker and tech enthusiast ought to have of their toolkit:

1. Microcontrollers

Arduino Uno: Great for novices and versatile for diverse projects.

Raspberry Pi: Ideal for more complex duties and going for walks complete operating structures.

ESP8266/ESP32: Perfect for wireless communication and IoT projects.

2. Sensors

DHT22: For temperature and humidity readings.

PIR Sensor: Useful for movement detection.

Ultrasonic Distance Sensor: Measures distances with high accuracy.

3. Actuators

Servo Motors: For unique manage in robotics and mechanical structures.

Stepper Motors: Ideal for applications requiring particular movement.

Solenoids: Good for growing mechanical actions and locks.

4. Displays

LCD Display: Useful for showing records and debugging.

OLED Display: Compact and clean for exact photographs and texts.

5. Connectivity Modules

Bluetooth Module (HC-05/HC-06): For short-range wi-fi communication.

Wi-Fi Module (ESP8266): Connects gadgets to the internet.

GSM Module: Enables verbal exchange over mobile networks.

6. Power Supplies

Battery Packs: Various types for transportable electricity.

Voltage Regulators: Ensure solid voltage ranges in your circuits.

Power Banks: Handy for charging and powering devices on the move.

7. Prototyping Tools

Breadboards: Essential for prototyping with out soldering.

Jumper Wires: For making connections on breadboards.

Soldering Kit: For everlasting connections and circuit meeting.

eight. Additional Components

Resistors, Capacitors, and Diodes: Fundamental for circuit design and stability.

Transistors: Key for switching and amplification tasks.

Connectors and Switches: For interfacing and controlling circuits.

By preserving these objects handy, you'll be nicely-prepared to address a huge range of IoT and electronics projects. Whether you're constructing smart domestic devices, wearable tech, or computerized structures, having the right additives can make all the difference.

[learning-robotics]

Robotics Project Ideas for All Skill Levels: From Beginner to Advanced

Beginner Projects

Line Following Robot

Description: A robot that follows a pre-defined path marked by a line on the floor. The line can be of any color, but black on a white background is commonly used.

Components: Microcontroller (like Arduino), IR sensors, DC motors, motor driver, chassis, wheels.

Learning Outcomes: Basic electronics, sensor integration, and motor control.

Obstacle Avoidance Robot

Description: A robot designed to navigate its environment and avoid obstacles. It uses sensors to detect objects in its path and changes direction to avoid collisions.

Components: Ultrasonic sensors, microcontroller, motors, motor driver, chassis, wheels.

Learning Outcomes: Understanding of sensor data processing, basic programming, and control systems.

Bluetooth-Controlled Robot

Description: A robot that can be controlled via a smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. Commands are sent wirelessly to move the robot in different directions.

Components: Bluetooth module, microcontroller, motors, motor driver, chassis, wheels.

Learning Outcomes: Wireless communication, mobile app development, microcontroller programming.

Voice-Controlled Robot

Description: A robot that responds to voice commands, allowing you to control its movements through spoken instructions.

Components: Microphone, speech recognition module, microcontroller, motors, motor driver, chassis, wheels.

Learning Outcomes: Introduction to speech recognition, interfacing sensors, and control mechanisms.

Light Following Robot

Description: A robot that follows a light source. It can be used to follow a flashlight or navigate toward a lighted area.

Components: Light sensors, microcontroller, motors, motor driver, chassis, wheels.

Learning Outcomes: Sensor integration, basic electronics, programming.

Before next read this Robotic Revolution

Intermediate Projects

Self-Balancing Robot

Description: A robot that maintains its balance on two wheels, similar to a Segway. It uses sensors to detect its tilt and adjusts the motors to stay upright.

Components: Gyroscope, accelerometer, microcontroller, motors, motor driver, wheels.

Learning Outcomes: Understanding of feedback control systems, sensor fusion, and motor control.

Robotic Arm

Description: A robotic arm capable of performing simple tasks like picking and placing objects. It can be controlled manually or programmed to follow a sequence of movements.

Components: Servo motors, microcontroller, various sensors (like pressure or touch), structural components.

Learning Outcomes: Kinematics, servo control, programming for sequential tasks.

Maze-Solving Robot

Description: A robot that can navigate through a maze and find the exit. It uses algorithms to decide the best path and avoid dead ends.

Components: IR or ultrasonic sensors, microcontroller, motors, motor driver, chassis, wheels.

Learning Outcomes: Algorithm implementation, sensor data interpretation, navigation strategies.

Remote-Controlled Spy Robot

Description: A small robot equipped with a camera that can be controlled remotely to explore and send live video feed.

Components: Wireless camera, microcontroller, motors, motor driver, chassis, wheels, remote control.

Learning Outcomes: Wireless video transmission, remote control systems, motor and sensor integration.

Line Following Robot with Obstacle Detection

Description: A robot that not only follows a line but also detects and avoids obstacles on its path. It combines line following and obstacle avoidance features.

Components: IR sensors, ultrasonic sensors, microcontroller, motors, motor driver, chassis, wheels.

Learning Outcomes: Integration of multiple sensor data, complex programming logic, advanced control systems.

Advanced Projects

Humanoid Robot

Description: A robot designed to resemble a human body. It can perform tasks like walking, speaking, and interacting with its environment.

Components: Servo motors, microcontroller, sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope), structural components.

Learning Outcomes: Advanced kinematics, complex control algorithms, humanoid robotics.

Autonomous Delivery Robot

Description: A robot that can autonomously navigate to deliver packages within a designated area. It uses GPS and other sensors to determine its location and avoid obstacles.

Components: GPS module, ultrasonic sensors, camera, microcontroller, motors, motor driver, chassis, wheels.

Learning Outcomes: Autonomous navigation, path planning, integration of multiple sensors.

Robotic Exoskeleton

Description: A wearable robotic suit that can assist with movement, enhancing the strength and endurance of the user.

Components: Servo motors, sensors (like pressure, motion), microcontroller, structural components.

Learning Outcomes: Biomechanics, actuator control, wearable robotics.

Quadruped Robot

Description: A four-legged robot capable of walking, running, and navigating various terrains. It mimics the movement of animals like dogs or cats.

Components: Servo motors, microcontroller, sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope), structural components.

Learning Outcomes: Gait analysis, dynamic stability, complex movement programming.

Swarm Robotics

Description: A group of small robots that work together to complete tasks. They communicate and coordinate to achieve goals like collective exploration or object transport.

Components: Multiple small robots, communication modules, microcontroller, various sensors.

Learning Outcomes: Distributed systems, communication protocols, cooperative robotics.

[electronic-component]

Arduino Due vs. Mega: A Comprehensive Comparison

What is Arduino Due and Mega?

The Arduino platform has revolutionized the world of DIY electronics, providing hobbyists and professionals alike with versatile and powerful microcontroller boards. Among the myriad of options, the Arduino Due and Arduino Mega stand out for their advanced features and robust performance. The Arduino Due, introduced in 2012, is the first Arduino board based on a 32-bit ARM core microcontroller, the Atmel SAM3X8E. In contrast, the Arduino Mega, built around the 8-bit ATmega2560 microcontroller, is known for its abundant I/O pins and memory. Understanding the differences between these two boards can help in selecting the right one for specific projects, enhancing both functionality and efficiency.

Processing Power and Performance

The processing capabilities of the Arduino Due and Mega are distinctly different, primarily due to their core microcontrollers. The Arduino Due, with its 32-bit ARM Cortex-M3 processor running at 84 MHz, offers significantly higher processing power compared to the Arduino Mega's 8-bit ATmega2560, which operates at 16 MHz. This difference in architecture and clock speed means that the Due can handle more complex calculations and tasks faster and more efficiently than the Mega. For projects requiring high computational power, such as real-time data processing or handling multiple sensors simultaneously, the Due is the superior choice. However, for simpler tasks, the Mega's processing power may suffice.

Memory and Storage Capabilities

Memory is another critical aspect where the Arduino Due and Mega diverge. The Arduino Due is equipped with 512 KB of flash memory for code storage and 96 KB of SRAM for data. On the other hand, the Arduino Mega has 256 KB of flash memory and 8 KB of SRAM. Additionally, the Due features a Direct Memory Access (DMA) controller, which allows for efficient memory operations, freeing up the CPU to handle other tasks. These memory enhancements make the Due more suitable for applications requiring large codebases and significant data handling, such as advanced robotics or sophisticated control systems. The Mega, with its more modest memory, is ideal for less demanding applications.

Input/Output Capabilities and Expansion

Both the Arduino Due and Mega are renowned for their extensive input/output (I/O) capabilities, yet they cater to different needs. The Mega boasts a whopping 54 digital I/O pins, 16 analog inputs, and 4 UARTs, making it ideal for projects that require multiple sensors, actuators, or communication interfaces. The Due, while offering fewer digital I/O pins at 54, includes 12 analog inputs and 4 UARTs, along with additional features like two DAC outputs for analog signal generation and enhanced PWM capabilities. These features provide the Due with superior analog output capabilities, making it suitable for applications like audio processing or advanced signal generation.

Power Consumption and Compatibility

Power consumption and compatibility are practical considerations when choosing between the Arduino Due and Mega. The Due operates at 3.3V logic levels, which makes it more power-efficient than the Mega, which uses 5V logic levels. This lower voltage operation is beneficial for battery-powered projects where energy efficiency is crucial. However, the 3.3V logic also means that the Due is not directly compatible with 5V components without level shifters. The Mega, with its 5V logic, offers broader compatibility with existing Arduino shields and components, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of projects. Understanding these power and compatibility nuances can help in making an informed decision based on the project's specific requirements.

[brutish-impulse]

It's alive!!

I can read out the A and B buttons. It was quite easy to do despite having little experience with electronics. (But C programming experience.)

The board here is an Arduino UNO R4 Wifi. It can act as a USB HID (human interface device) so I could write code to actually use it as a game controller on my computer. Also, it has a fancy little LED display as you can see, and it does 5V digital logic, so I don't need a logic-level converter. (E.g., if you directly connect this controller to a Raspberry Pi, it can destroy the GPIO pins.)

My 3-button controller is not alive, sadly.

[jackdiyproject]

EXPLORING THE 5 COOL PARTNER SELLER ELECTRONICS PRODUCTS-Part1

Exploring the 5 Cool Partner Seller Electronics Products

Prologue

Are you an electronics enthusiast looking to expand your electronics project repertoire? Want to take your skills to the next level by exploring new and exciting products? Look no further than our list of five cool electronics products from partner sellers!

Whether you’re interested in building your own smart home devices, experimenting with sensors, or creating your own robot, these products are sure to inspire you. They cover a lot of application areas, from loop detectors used to monitor vehicle count in parking garages to Arduino CNC shields used in CNC machines, from simple pulse sensors used to detect cardiovascular pulse signals from fingertip to RGB LED panel light used in smart home, these products are unique, compact, and functional. Not only are these products fun to build and use but they’re also designed to help you learn new skills and techniques along the way.

What’s more, these products all come from trusted partner sellers who are committed to developing high-quality products. They’re happy to provide technical support for customers who have questions, so you can be sure you’re getting the best in electronics.

So get ready to dive into the world of electronics and explore these five cool partner seller products. You’re sure to find something that piques your interest and takes your own electronics projects to the next level.

Inductive Loop Vehicle Detector by Elektronika-ba

Whether you need to monitor occupancy and count vehicles in parking garages, control vehicle access at door and barrier controls, or facilitate traffic light installations and traffic controllers, the inductive loop detector is the perfect solution. It can even detect the direction and speed of vehicle traffic, making it an invaluable tool for a variety of traffic-related applications. In addition, this device can function as a stand-alone speed trap and can be easily interfaced with Arduino.

We can also provide a pre-programmed PIC chip to meet your project requirements.

Specifications

Number of operating modes: 4

Tuning: Automatic

Detection type: Presence/Pulse

Presence time: Adjustable in 3 steps

Pulse duration: 250 ms / 500 ms

Signal filtering: Adjustable in 2 steps (NORMAL, HIGH)

Loop inductance: 20 uH — 1000 uH

Frequency range: 20 kHz — 145 kHz

Frequency selection: 2 combinations (LOW, HIGH)

Sensitivity: Maximum 0.0025% Δf/f, adjustable in 8 steps

Detection speed: 10 ms by default, adjustable

Start-up time: ~ 1 second per channel (or longer if the frequency is not stable)

Temperature range: -35°C — 120°C

Sensor protection: Galvanic isolation + gas discharge tube for lightning protection

Don’t settle for less — click here to learn more about the Inductive Loop Vehicle Detector and experience the compact, yet cool detector!

Arduino CNC Shield V3.51 by Protoneer

Designed by Protoneer, this kit is packed with features to ensure high precision control of your stepper motors, you can use it to easily build small CNC routers, DIY laser cutters, 3D printers, or any project that requires precise stepper motor control.

Our latest version 3.51 includes several enhancements to make assembly and installation even easier. We’ve added end-stop and probe signal filtering circuitry to eliminate false triggers and allow the use of unshielded cables for end-stops and probes. We’ve also increased the size of the solder pads for easier assembly and updated the probe pin labels to make installation a breeze.

With the Arduino CNC Shield Kit, you’ll have everything you need to build your own CNC router or mill with ease.

Features

Includes Noise Filers on all end stops and the probing pin. (New in V3.51)

GRBL 0.9 compatible. (Open source firmware that runs on an Arduino UNO that turns G-code commands into stepper signals https://github.com/grbl/grbl)

4-Axis support (X, Y, Z, A-Can duplicate X, Y, Z or do a full 4th axis with custom firmware using pins A4 and A3)

2 x End stops for each axis (6 in total)

Coolant enable

Uses removable Pololu A4988 compatible stepper drivers. (A4988, DRV8825 and others)(Not Included)

Jumpers to set the Micro-Stepping for the stepper drivers. (Some drivers like the DRV8825 can do up to 1/32 micro-stepping )

Compact design.

Stepper Motors can be connected with 4-pin molex connectors or soldered in place.

Runs on 12–36V DC. (At the moment only the Pololu DRV8825 drivers can handle up to 36V so please consider the operation voltage when powering the board.)

Don’t wait — click here to see more about the Arduino CNC Shield V3.51 and start your next project today!

Easy Pulse Mikro by Embedded Lab

What’s more, the Easy Pulse Mikro is designed in the convenient Mikro bus form factor, making it easy to integrate with a wide range of mikroElektronika’s development boards. With all necessary instrumentation and amplification built right in, this powerful sensor provides a clean and precise analog PPG waveform output that’s routed to the AN pin of the mikroBus connector.

Whether you’re a hobbyist, student, or professional developer, the Easy Pulse mikro is the perfect tool for monitoring heart rate and other vital signs.

Click here to see more about the Easy Pulse mikro.

Features

Compatible with mikroBus socket.

Filtered and amplified analog PPG signal output

On-board potentiometer for adjusting amplifier gain, if needed (rotate clock-wise for increasing gain)

Onboard LED for indicating heartbeat. It flashes synchronously with the heartbeat on detecting the pulse from the fingertip.

[adafruit]

First round touch display working with ESP32-S3 👉🔴🟢🔵

We showed off some fabulous shaped displays last week - and now we're getting them running! This is a 2.1" 480x480 round display with SPI configuration and an 18-bit RGB interface. Thankfully there is already an Arduino library https://github.com/Lzw655/ESP32_Display_Panel that supports the SPI configuration over port expander stuff on this eval board, plus the touchscreen drivers, too - it saved me a lot of time! The chipset is ST7701, a typical TFT panel driver. You definitely have to initialize the display first with the proper configuration before you can blast RGB data for it to show up, but we were able to noodle that together here https://github.com/ladyada/ESP32_Display_Panel/blob/master/src/lcd/ST7701.cpp#L37, and now it's looking great. Now we know this display and touch setup works, we'll start ordering the displays for us to stock and use.

[theshepherdshound]

HOW DO YOU START MAKING A GAME?

hihihihi- I'm adding to this because I want everyone to make games. My current top recommendations for books is A Playful Production Process, Rule of Play is a classic, so is Game Feel

This is long- so get ready

Other engines

Construct 3: Browser based game stuff!

Pulp: Extremely similar to Bitsy- make games for the PlayDate

PICO-8: Make tiny games and programs for a fantasy console!

LÖVE: Lua based 2D game framework!

Scratch: Educational engine, chances are if you're under a certain age you've had a school program use this!

microStudio: More browser based engine stuff!

babylon.js: Open source engine

For games adjacent things like alternative controllers, events, or installations

LIKELIKE online: Arts based open source online art gallery, remixable on glitch- there's even a template

Processing: Open source, 20 years of documentation, and super flexible if you wanna be experimental

Arduino: Make physical games using programming, or robots, or escape rooms!

Makey-Makey: Much simpler plug and play Arduino!

Okay but how do I make a game?

Fast answer- you just start. But a pretty straight forward workflow would be

Write down ideas, make flowcharts of ideas, scripts, mechanical descriptions. From that think of how systems interact

Paper prototype, see what works and doesn't work when playing through things without being restricted to programming

Jam, fail often and fast because each project is a lot like a sketch- they take a long time to do though. the quicker you are to kill your darlings and start anew the faster you'll get better

Do a game deconstruction- break it down into tiny pieces and stare into it. What made it fun? What were the small things that stuck out to you?

"But I want to make a complicated-"

Shhhh- no you don't. You'll burn out. Make the cube move first. Make it jump. Does the jumping feel good? No? Start over. Make the cube move again, but slightly differently- does the jump feel good yet? No? START OVER. As soon as you get stuck, abandon what you're doing and start over

And I'm not kidding, game making is an iterative process. The more projects you do the better, faster, and easier it gets. If you whittle away on something you'll never finish

Okay, jump feels good now, great now interact with something in the scene. So on and so forth until you have scripts you like and understand and these become your building blocks for projects

Make the smallest thing you can- smaller, smallerSMALLER- here's a breakdown of a dating sim game with a final 3-4 hours of content per playthrough, similar to something like Hatoful Boyfriend or Doki Doki Literature Club

Need To Have

Title card and a way to start the game.

A dialogue system including the ability to show text, click on buttons, and track choices.

Includes both NPC and player names along with dialogue.

One dateable character including tracking relationship points with the player, one friendship cutscene, one romantic cutscene, and one final cutscene.

Ending card and credits.

Want To Have

In addition to above:

An option screen that changes basic user interface, save and load system, player name input with pronouns, music volume and quality of life settings, so on.

An external narrative building up the world in which the game is played including a mystery for the player to solve.

Four dateable characters with individual narratives including 3 friendship cutscenes, 3 romantic cutscenes, and a final ending cutscene for each.

A resolution to the mystery.

Dream To Have

In addition to above:

A hidden menu that allows the character to make interesting alterations to the game and becoming the antagonist of the mystery

Mystery narrative is branching with several endings where the player can either fail or succeed without dating any of the characters

Friend only narrative choices and ending.

Two extra gag romance characters with diverge narratives unlike the others in the game

Jealousy/approval between characters depending on narrative choices. 

Options to create poly relationships between compatible characters, options to betray or cheat on characters, and options to matchmake characters without dating them.

Multiple endings to resolve the mystery including hidden antagonist role.

I often reference this tiktok on how everything piles up

Game making takes a long time and wildly complex very fast. For my timelines I add a minimum of 3 months for each year.

Quick and dirty advice for once you've got something going

Call your grant officers if you got local funding, it’s their job to answer your questions!

Research the desired outcomes before asking someone for money; be that the government, a publisher, or yourself

Never pay for event submissions or showcases until you’re making significant revenue if you don’t have to, I suggest following Game Conference Guide’s calendar

Even if you’re working for free track your hours and costs so if/when you are making budgets in the future you know how fast you and your team work

Learn when to say something is good enough; cut mechanics or features early and often to avoid the project ballooning out of scope

Don’t quit your day job until it makes sense- it’s more sustainable to work on something without funding if you’re still able to pay your bills

Shipped is the best feature, some great advice from Mark Darrah

Make smaller, shittier, and messier games more often

Go forth, make games, then tell me about them and I'll play them if I can. I love when folks make games- you can do it!

🎮 HEY I WANNA MAKE A GAME! 🎮

Yeah I getcha. I was once like you. Pure and naive. Great news. I AM STILL PURE AND NAIVE, GAME DEV IS FUN! But where to start?

To start, here are a couple of entry level softwares you can use! source: I just made a game called In Stars and Time and people are asking me how to start making vidy gaems. Now, without further ado:

SOFTWARES AND ENGINES FOR PEOPLE WHO DON'T KNOW HOW TO CODE!!!

Ren'py (and also a link to it if you click here do it): THE visual novel software. Comic artists, look no further ✨Pros: It's free! It's simple! It has great documentation! It has a bunch of plugins and UI stuff and assets for you to buy! It can be used even if you have LITERALLY no programming experience! (You'll just need to read the doc a bunch) You can also port your game to a BUNCH of consoles! ✨Cons: None really <3 Some games to look at: Doki Doki Literature Club, Bad End Theater, Butterfly Soup

Twine: Great for text-based games! GREAT FOR WRITERS WHO DONT WANNA DRAW!!!!!!!!! (but you can draw if you want) ✨Pros: It's free! It's simple! It's versatile! It has great documentation! It can be used even if you have LITERALLY no programming experience! (You'll just need to read the doc a bunch) ✨Cons: You can add pictures, but it's a pain. Some games to look at: The Uncle Who Works For Nintendo, Queers In love At The End of The World, Escape Velocity

Bitsy: Little topdown games! ✨Pros: It's free! It's simple! It's (somewhat) intuitive! It has great documentation! It can be used even if you have LITERALLY no programming experience! You can make everything in it, from text to sprites to code! Those games sure are small! ✨Cons: Those games sure are small. This is to make THE simplest game. Barely any animation for your sprites, can barely fit a line of text in there. But honestly, the restrictions are refreshing! Some games to look at: honestly I haven't played that many bitsy games because i am a fake gamer. The picture above is from Under A Star Called Sun though and that looks so pretty

RPGMaker: To make RPGs! LIKE ME!!!!! NOTE: I recommend getting the latest version if you can, but all have their pros and cons. You can get a better idea by looking at this post. ✨Pros: Literally everything you need to make an RPG. Has a tutorial inside the software itself that will teach you the basics. Pretty simple to understand, even if you have no coding experience! Also I made a post helping you out with RPGMaker right here! ✨Cons: Some stuff can be hard to figure out. Also, the latest version is expensive. Get it on sale! Some games to look at: Yume Nikki, Hylics, In Stars and Time (hehe. I made it)

engine.lol: collage worlds! it is relatively new so I don't know much about it, but it seems fascinating. picture is from Garden! NOTE: There's a bunch of smaller engines to find out there. Just yesterday I found out there's an Idle Game Maker made by the Cookie Clicker creator. Isn't life wonderful?

✨more advice under the cut. this is Long ok✨

ENGINES I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT AND THEY SEEM HARD BUT ALSO GIVE IT A TRY I GUESS!!!! :

Unity and Unreal: I don't know anything about those! That looks hard to learn! But indie devs use them! It seems expensive! Follow your dreams though! Don't ask me how!

GameMaker: Wuh I just don't know anything about it either! I just know it's now free if your game is non-commercial (aka, you're not selling it), and Undertale was made on it! It seems good! You probably need some coding experience though!!!

Godot: Man I know even less about this one. Heard good things though!

BUNCHA RANDOM ADVICE!!!!

-Make something small first! Try making simple: a character is in a room, and exits the room. The character can look around, decide to take an item with them, can leave, and maybe the door is locked and you have to find the key. Figuring out how to code something like that, whether it is as a fully text-based game or as an RPGMaker map, should be a good start to figure out how your software of choice works!

-After that, if you have an idea, try first to make the simplest version of that idea. For my timeloop RPG, my simplest version was two rooms: first room you can walk in, second room with the King, where a cutscene automatically plays and the battle starts, you immediately die, and loop back to the first room, with the text from this point on reflecting this change. I think I also added a loop counter. This helped me figure out the most important thing: Can This Game Be Made? After that, the rest is just fun stuff. So if you want to make a dating sim, try and figure out how to add choices, and how to have affection points go up and down depending on your choices! If you want to make a platformer, figure out how to make your character move and jump and how to create a simple level! If you just want to make a kinetic visual novel with no choices, figure out how to add text, and how to add portraits! You'll be surprised at how powerful you'll feel after having figured even those simple things out.

-If you have a programming problem or just get confused, never underestimate the power of asking Google! You most likely won't be the only person asking this question, and you will learn some useful tips! If you are powerful enough, you can even… Ask people??? On forums??? Not me though.

-Yeah I know you probably want to make Your Big Idea RIGHT NOW but please. Make a smaller prototype first. You need to get that experience. Trust me.

-If you are not a womanthing of many skills like me, you might realize you need help. Maybe you need an artist, or a programmer. So! Game jams on itch.io are a great way to get to work and meet other game devs that have different strengths! Or ask around! Maybe your artist friend secretly always wanted to draw for a game. Ask! Collaborate! Have fun!!!

I hope that was useful! If it was. Maybe. You'd like to buy me a coffee. Or maybe you could check out my comics and games. Or just my new critically acclaimed game In Stars and Time. If you want. Ok bye