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.

Workshops

Workshop 2.1

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.

Workshop 2.2

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.