LED Programming
Learn programming fundamentals through colorful, visual feedback. LEDs provide immediate visual confirmation of your code, making them perfect for learning control structures and user interaction.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this unit, you will be able to:
- Control LED colors programmatically
- Create animations and visual effects
- Handle user input with buttons
- Apply programming concepts to visual output
Unit Structure
This unit is designed as a 4-day progression:
Day 1: Color Control - Learn RGB color theory and basic LED programming
Day 2: Animation - Create moving patterns and visual effects
Day 3: User Interaction - Add button controls for interactive displays
Day 4: Assessment - Demonstrate mastery through a comprehensive project
Skills You’ll Develop
Technical Skills
- RGB color theory: Understanding how colors mix in digital systems
- Loop programming: Creating repeating patterns and animations
- User input: Responding to button presses and sensor data
- Real-time control: Managing timing and synchronization
Project Skills
- Visual design: Creating appealing color patterns and effects
- User experience: Making intuitive and responsive interfaces
- Documentation: Recording your process and solutions
- Troubleshooting: Diagnosing and fixing common LED issues
Assessment Criteria
Your LED projects will be evaluated on:
| Criteria | Approaching | Proficient | Distinguished |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical Implementation | Basic colors work | Smooth animations | Complex interactive effects |
| Code Quality | Code runs correctly | Well-organized structure | Efficient and elegant solutions |
| Creativity | Follows examples | Original variations | Innovative new concepts |
| Documentation | Basic notes taken | Clear process record | Teaching-quality explanations |
Real-World Applications
LED programming skills apply to:
- Status indicators on robots and devices
- User interfaces for control panels and displays
- Debugging tools for visualizing robot states
- Art installations and interactive exhibits
- Safety systems with color-coded warnings
Next Steps
After mastering LED control, you’ll apply these skills in:
- Robot status displays: Show sensor readings and system state
- Competition indicators: Visual feedback during robot battles
- Advanced projects: Integrate LEDs with autonomous behaviors