The Basics of Programming with LED Pixels

Want to learn the basics of programming? This class offers people the opportunity to begin learning the fundamentals of C++ in a fun and sensory rich way through LED Pixel pattern building via Arduino.

Overall, we will cover variables, functions, operators, basics of working with Arduino and it’s Development Environment (IDE), ‘IF’ statements, ‘FOR’ loops, and other relevant tools for making lights do fun things.



Skills Covered:

• Basic Arduino Setup.

• Basic Pixel Library Setup.

• C++ variables, functions, operatores, logic statements, loops.

• By the end of the course we will have produced basic ‘strandtest’ output for LED pixels.

• The student should understand how to put data into variables [instantiation], write simple functions, understand basic operators.

What to Bring:

• Arduino

• Laptop with USB cable for programming.

• LED Pixels -Neopixels WS2812, WS2801, or WS2811 preferred. LED pixels will be available for purchase at the Idea Fab Labs.

Prerequisites:

None, please come ready to learn!

Instructor Bio:

Jordan has been programming for many years and with the advent of the IFL project and has been heavily involved in LED Pixel programming both for small sculptures and a large LED Ceiling installation.