Electronics Basics
Learn the fundamental concepts of electronics that power all robots. This unit covers the essential components, circuits, and techniques you’ll use throughout the course.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this unit, you will be able to:
- Build basic circuits on breadboards
- Connect and control LEDs, sensors, and displays
- Understand voltage, current, and resistance
- Troubleshoot common circuit problems
Components
Understanding the building blocks of electronic circuits:
Breadboards
- Breadboards Part 1 (~4 minutes) - Basic setup and connections
- Breadboards Part 2 (5:05 - 12:12) - Advanced techniques
Displays
- LCD Display Basics - Connecting and programming displays
Projects
Hands-on projects to practice your electronics skills:
Beginner Projects
- LED on Breadboard (0 - 10:38) - Your first circuit
- Arduino + LCD Display (7:07+) - Digital displays
Intermediate Projects
- Soil Moisture Sensor - Environmental sensing
- IoT Garden Monitor - Connected devices
Support Resources
Troubleshooting
- Ben Eater Breadboard Tips - Professional techniques
- Wire Cutting and Preparation - Clean connections
Common Issues
- No power: Check power connections and voltage
- Component not working: Verify wiring and component orientation
- Intermittent problems: Look for loose connections
- Short circuits: Check for crossed wires
Next Steps
After completing this unit, you’ll be ready for:
- LED Programming - Add color and animation to your projects
- Basic robot movement - Apply electronics to robotics