Level 2 Robot
SRS Robot with Level 2 Parts
In this unit, participants will learn about circuit design and explore
programming in C++. Circuit design will include wiring LEDs, pushbuttons,
and ICs. Programming will include algorithms for controlling
an LCD and processing input from the distance sensors.
The two workshops for the Level 2 material are described below. See the
Workshop Schedule to register.
The kit for this level includes a breadboard, pushbuttons, LEDs,
distance sensors, and an LCD. See the
Level 2 Parts List for details.
You can also download the data sheets
for various components.
You can download a
ZIP of the Level 2 files [4.9M, 6-25-2006].
This includes the current Level 2 Kit Manual (6-30-2005) and
Sample Programs (C/C++) [58k, 6-25-2006].
It may take several minutes to download, depending on your connection.
Participants will add switches and LEDs to their robots via a breadboard.
Connections will be made to the processor board by inserting wires into
sockets, which will be soldered to the headers. This session will include
instruction on circuit design, including Ohm's Law, and chip architecture.
Programming will include making behavior decisions based on switch input and
using LED output as a debugging tool.
Topics covered: Using a breadboard, determining switch operation
with a multimeter, using Ohm's Law to pick appropriate resistors for restricting
current through LEDs, understanding "pull-up resistors,"
program architecture using C++ classes.
Participants will learn how to display characters on a 16x2 parallel-input
LCD screen and how to interpret readings from distance sensors.
Topics covered: Communication for controlling an LCD, using a
74164 (serial-shift) IC to minimize the number of control lines needed
in the processor, using a potentiometer (variable resistor) to control
contrast level, interpreting analog data, understanding sensor thresholds.