Course code:

ES1074

Level:

I - Introductory

Class size limit:

15

Meets the following requirements:

  • QR - Quantitative Reasoning
  • ES - Environmental Science

Lab fee:

100

Typically offered:

Every other year

Robots and microcontrollers are devices that autonomously perform repetitive tasks which are becoming an increasingly common part of our lives. The “internet of things” is all around us, in watches, glasses, refrigerators, and radios. How do these devices work? How do they sense the world around them and how do they respond to it? How can you make your own devices? In this course, we will learn to build and program simple but useful devices. We will begin by creating devices that perform simple tasks and move on to using devices that sense and respond to their environment. Examples might include temperature or gas sensors that sound an alarm when levels are too high. We will then move on to build and program devices that collect and store data, such as a weather station or a motion-activated camera. We will discuss more complex topics such as sensing and manipulating the external world and will construct automated robots that can carry out simple tasks. Students who are interested in learning about electronic hardware and software, deploying remote sensors or controlling robots will benefit from this course. Previous programming experience will be helpful for more advanced projects, but is not required for this course. We will use devices such as Arduinos, Raspberry Pis, or other devices. Evaluation will be through quizzes, homework, and projects.

Prerequisites:

Instructor permission.

Always visit the Registrar's Office for the official course catalog and schedules.