These are thermal, not Infrared cameras, returning temperature data in a tight and tidy bundle that can be plugged into Android, IOS, and other USB devices (like Raspberry-Pi SBCs!). What use is it? Here's what we've done with it over the last month: And it's small. The basic unit starts at just over $220, and […]
SMARTBEAM! Ok, it's really microcontroll...
Dave Hrynkiw
October 2, 2008
It's been in the coming for a while, and now is the time to release it to the webosphere (yes, I said "Web-o-sphere").
Since Solarbotics Ltd. took over HVW Technologies, we simply couldn't ignore some of the benefits of microcontrollers. Really, they're not that scary. Many of them even look like our good friend the 74AC240 IC.
We're starting our blending of technologies with the PICAXE line of microcontrollers. These have some specific features that make them very usable with BEAM projects:
- They're inexpensive. Most of us BEAMers are a cheap lot, scavenging for parts.
- They're SIMPLE. Plug in a USB cable, draw flow-charts, and download the code!
- They offer suitability. With over 13 types from very simple and small (08 series) to the powerful 40X1 series, you can pick the right tool for the job, without overkill. How BEAM-ish.
So if you've become too comfortable with your latest techniques, try something new. Stretch your brain, and check out the PICAXE. We've even got starter packs, and a book!
Besides the PICAXE, we're also dabbling with the Freeduino SB. This is a project spawned from the Arduino project out of Italy. It's an open-source hardware and software project using the Atmel ATmega168 microcontroller.The really cool thing is that that it's open-source, there's a huge world-wide community of developers and users, so there's lots of help, source-code, and examples to start with.
It's more expensive than the PICAXE, but it's a different beast. Where the PICAXE is generally just the chip, Freeduino is a full system. Besides the microcontroller, the Freeduino includes:
- USB interface (so you just plug it into your PC to use it. That's it!)
- Programming software usable on Windows, Mac, and Linux,
- Programming language that is C-like, but simpler
- Built-in voltage regulation, indicator LEDs and a FUSE. How beginner-friendly is that? (Very!)
So if you're more programming savvy than flowcharts and BASIC, check out a Freeduino SB, and do some web-searches. It's an very useable, handy platform!
MORE POSTS
Well, that was a busy December...
Hi all. The staff at Solarbotics/HVW Technologies has been worked hard these last six weeks leading up to the winter holiday, so we'll be open again December 27/28, and again for regular hours January 2nd. Hope the holidays are good to you too! Regards, Dave Hrynkiw President, HVW Technologies/Solarbotics Ltd.
Farewell, Mr. McKee!
After 5 years of employment with Solarbotics Ltd., Grant McKee has submitted his letter of resignation to Solarbotics, effective August 16th 2005. Mr. McKee has been an invaluable resource at Solarbotics, but is off to hunker down and gather resources before making the leap to further advance his education. Although he will be greatly missed, […]
Faster Download Times!
We are improving the site once again! You'll notice that our Products, Galleries, and Old News page(s) will load faster. All the same information is there, it just has a more streamlined approach, reducing the download time (especially for Sherline Machines!). So check it out! Read More...
Solarbotics has been operating for more than 25 years, bringing electronics know-how and supplies to both the electronics professional and hobbyist. We'll be happy to help you too!
Solarbotics, Ltd. is not responsible for misprints or errors on product prices or information. For more information, please see our Terms and Conditions.
Warning: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov for more information. This item was manufactured prior to August 31, 2018.