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Daniel Frank

Hello, everyone! Welcome to this course on Adding Electronics to Rapid Prototypes. This is part of the Rapid Prototyping and Tooling specialization. In this course, I’ll cover the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. I’ll then discuss different options for connecting electrical components as well as discuss different types of motors and actuators. Finally, I’ll end this course by discussing microcontrollers and how to use them to make even more sophisticated prototypes.

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Hello, everyone! Welcome to this course on Adding Electronics to Rapid Prototypes. This is part of the Rapid Prototyping and Tooling specialization. In this course, I’ll cover the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. I’ll then discuss different options for connecting electrical components as well as discuss different types of motors and actuators. Finally, I’ll end this course by discussing microcontrollers and how to use them to make even more sophisticated prototypes.

By exploring both electrical simulations and many examples from different robotics projects I’ve had the opportunity to work on, by the end of this course, you should have a better understanding of the basics of electronics and how to add them to your designs to create high-quality prototypes. We have a lot of great content to cover, so without further ado, let’s dive into the world of rapid prototyping!

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What's inside

Syllabus

Course Introduction
Hello, everyone! Welcome to this course on Adding Electronics to Rapid Prototypes. This is part of the Rapid Prototyping and Tooling specialization. In this course, I’ll cover the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. I’ll then discuss different options for connecting electrical components as well as discuss different types of motors and actuators. Finally, I’ll end this course by discussing microcontrollers and how to use them to make even more sophisticated prototypes. By exploring both electrical simulations and many examples from different robotics projects I’ve had the opportunity to work on, by the end of this course, you should have a better understanding of the basics of electronics and how to add them to your designs to create high-quality prototypes. We have a lot of great content to cover, so without further ado, let’s dive into the world of rapid prototyping!
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Module 1: Electric Circuit Basics
In this module, you will learn about the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters.
Module 2: Electrical Connections
In this module, you will learn about different options for connecting electrical components.
Module 3: Motors
In this module, you will learn about different types of actuators and how to select and control a DC motor.
Module 4: Microcontrollers
In this module, you will learn about microcontrollers and how to use them to make sophisticated prototypes.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Introduces diverse topics relevant to electrical engineering
Explores practical applications and electronic components
Provides an accessible overview for beginners
Recommended for those with a foundational understanding of electronics
Assumes learners have access to relevant equipment and materials

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Adding Electronics to Rapid Prototypes with these activities:
Review Basic Electrical Concepts
Reviewing basic electrical concepts will help you better understand the content in this course and provide a stronger foundation for your learning.
Browse courses on Electric Circuits
Show steps
  • Read through the course syllabus and identify the key electrical concepts that will be covered.
  • Review your notes or textbooks from previous courses that covered basic electrical concepts.
  • Complete practice problems or simulations related to electrical circuits, breadboards, and multimeters.
Review basic electrical concepts
Review basic electrical concepts, such as voltage, current, and resistance to refresh understanding and prepare for more advanced topics.
Browse courses on Electric Circuits
Show steps
  • Revisit Ohm's law and Kirchhoff's laws
  • Review the concept of electric circuits and circuit analysis
Follow Tutorials on Microcontroller Programming
Following tutorials on microcontroller programming will provide you with a structured approach to learning the basics of programming microcontrollers, making it easier to implement them in your projects.
Browse courses on Microcontrollers
Show steps
  • Find online tutorials or courses that cover the basics of microcontroller programming.
  • Follow the tutorials, completing the exercises and assignments.
  • Experiment with different microcontroller programming techniques.
Nine other activities
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Follow Tutorials on Breadboard Wiring
Following tutorials on breadboard wiring will provide you with step-by-step guidance on connecting electrical components, making it easier to understand and apply these concepts in your projects.
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials or videos that demonstrate how to wire different types of electrical components on a breadboard.
  • Follow the instructions in the tutorials, carefully connecting the components according to the diagrams.
  • Test your connections using a multimeter to ensure they are correct.
Follow tutorials on breadboard and multimeter basics
Follow online tutorials to learn the basics of breadboards and multimeters, gaining hands-on experience with these essential tools.
Show steps
  • Find online tutorials on using a breadboard
  • Follow the instructions to connect components on a breadboard
  • Learn how to use a multimeter to measure voltage, current, and resistance
  • Practice measuring electrical signals using a multimeter
Solve practice problems on electrical circuits
Solve practice problems on electrical circuits to reinforce understanding of circuit theory and analysis techniques.
Browse courses on Electric Circuits
Show steps
  • Find practice problems on electrical circuits
  • Analyze the circuits and solve for unknown values
  • Check answers and review solutions
Build a simple LED circuit on a breadboard
Build a simple LED circuit on a breadboard to apply theoretical knowledge and gain practical experience in circuit construction.
Browse courses on Circuit Building
Show steps
  • Gather necessary components (LED, resistor, breadboard, jumper wires)
  • Connect the components to create a simple circuit
  • Power the circuit and observe the LED glowing
  • Take measurements and troubleshoot the circuit if needed
Solve Problems Involving DC Motors
Solving problems involving DC motors will help you develop a deeper understanding of how they operate, enabling you to select and control them effectively in your projects.
Browse courses on Motors
Show steps
  • Review the theory behind DC motors, including their construction, principles of operation, and control techniques.
  • Practice solving problems that involve selecting and controlling DC motors for specific applications.
  • Use simulation software or online tools to test your solutions and observe the behavior of DC motors under different conditions.
Help Fellow Students in Course Forums
Mentoring others in course forums will not only benefit them but also reinforce your own understanding of the course material and develop your communication skills.
Show steps
  • Regularly participate in course forums.
  • Offer assistance to fellow students who are struggling with concepts or assignments.
  • Provide clear and concise explanations of the material.
Design and build a small electronic device
Design and build a small electronic device, such as a night light or a simple game, to apply knowledge of electronics and demonstrate creativity.
Browse courses on Circuit Design
Show steps
  • Brainstorm ideas and sketch out a design
  • Select appropriate components and create a schematic
  • Build the device on a breadboard or perfboard
  • Test the device and make necessary adjustments
  • Finalize the design and document the project
Build a Simple Electronic Circuit
Building a simple electronic circuit will allow you to apply the concepts you learn in this course in a practical setting, reinforcing your understanding and developing hands-on skills.
Browse courses on Electric Circuits
Show steps
  • Design a simple electronic circuit based on the concepts covered in the course.
  • Gather the necessary components and materials.
  • Assemble the circuit on a breadboard, carefully following the design.
  • Test the functionality of the circuit using a multimeter or other appropriate tools.
Contribute to Open-Source Electronics Projects
Contributing to open-source electronics projects will provide you with valuable experience in real-world applications of electronics, enhancing your practical knowledge and skills.
Browse courses on Electric Circuits
Show steps
  • Identify open-source electronics projects that align with your interests.
  • Review the project documentation and code.
  • Suggest improvements or contribute new features to the project.
  • Collaborate with other contributors to refine and enhance the project.

Career center

Learners who complete Adding Electronics to Rapid Prototypes will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Electrical Technician
An Electrical Technician installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems and equipment. This course may be useful for an Electrical Technician because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for an Electrical Technician who needs to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems and equipment.
Electronics Technician
An Electronics Technician installs, maintains, and repairs electronic systems and equipment. This course may be useful for an Electronics Technician because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for an Electronics Technician who needs to install, maintain, and repair electronic systems and equipment.
Robotics Engineer
A Robotics Engineer designs, develops, tests, and deploys robots and robotic systems. This course may be useful for a Robotics Engineer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for a Robotics Engineer who needs to design and develop robots and robotic systems.
Mechatronics Engineer
A Mechatronics Engineer designs, develops, tests, and deploys mechatronic systems. This course may be useful for a Mechatronics Engineer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for a Mechatronics Engineer who needs to design and develop mechatronic systems.
Electronics Engineer
An Electronics Engineer designs, develops, tests, and supervises the installation of electronic systems and equipment. This course may be useful for an Electronics Engineer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for an Electronics Engineer who needs to design and develop electronic systems.
Electrical Engineer
An Electrical Engineer designs, develops, tests, and supervises the installation of electrical systems and equipment. This course may be useful for an Electrical Engineer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for an Electrical Engineer who needs to design and develop electrical systems.
Computer Engineer
A Computer Engineer designs, develops, tests, and deploys computer systems and software. This course may be useful for a Computer Engineer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for a Computer Engineer who needs to design and develop computer systems and software.
Mechanical Engineer
A Mechanical Engineer designs, develops, tests, and deploys mechanical systems. This course may be useful for a Mechanical Engineer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for a Mechanical Engineer who needs to design and develop mechanical systems that incorporate electronics.
Product Designer
A Product Designer designs, develops, and tests products. This course may be useful for a Product Designer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for a Product Designer who needs to design and develop products that incorporate electronics.
Industrial Designer
An Industrial Designer designs and develops products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This course may be useful for an Industrial Designer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for an Industrial Designer who needs to design and develop products that incorporate electronics.
Chemical Engineer
A Chemical Engineer designs, develops, tests, and deploys chemical processes and systems. This course may be useful for a Chemical Engineer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for a Chemical Engineer who needs to design and develop chemical processes and systems that incorporate electronics.
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs, develops, tests, and deploys civil infrastructure. This course may be useful for a Civil Engineer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for a Civil Engineer who needs to design and develop civil infrastructure that incorporates electronics.
Biomedical Engineer
A Biomedical Engineer designs, develops, tests, and deploys biomedical systems. This course may be useful for a Biomedical Engineer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for a Biomedical Engineer who needs to design and develop biomedical systems that incorporate electronics.
Aerospace Engineer
An Aerospace Engineer designs, develops, tests, and deploys aerospace systems. This course may be useful for an Aerospace Engineer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for an Aerospace Engineer who needs to design and develop aerospace systems that incorporate electronics.
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and deploys software systems. This course may be useful for a Software Engineer because it covers the basics of electric circuits, breadboards, and multimeters. Additionally, the course discusses different options for connecting electrical components and different types of motors. This knowledge can be helpful for a Software Engineer who needs to design and develop software systems for embedded systems or robotics.

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Adding Electronics to Rapid Prototypes.
A comprehensive textbook on electric circuits, covering both basic concepts and advanced topics. A valuable reference for learners with a strong foundation in mathematics and physics.
A classic textbook on electronic devices and circuit theory. Provides a deep understanding of the underlying principles of electronics. Suitable for advanced learners and professionals.
A comprehensive textbook on mechatronics, covering sensors, actuators, and control systems. Suitable for learners with a strong foundation in mathematics and physics.
A comprehensive textbook on embedded systems, covering hardware, software, and design techniques. Suitable for advanced learners and professionals.
A comprehensive textbook on control systems, covering both classical and modern control techniques. Suitable for advanced learners and professionals with a strong foundation in mathematics.
A practical guide to designing and building electronic circuits for various applications. Suitable for hobbyists and makers.
The official user guide for the Raspberry Pi single-board computer. Provides detailed information on hardware, software, and programming. Useful for learners who want to use the Raspberry Pi for robotics projects.
A practical guide to electronics, with hands-on projects and clear explanations. Suitable for beginners and hobbyists.
Covers the basics of robotics, including kinematics, dynamics, and control. Provides a good foundation for understanding how to use motors and actuators in robotics projects.
A beginner-friendly guide to using Arduino microcontrollers for various projects. Suitable for hobbyists and makers with no prior knowledge of electronics or programming.
A concise introduction to the field of robotics, covering history, applications, and future trends. Provides a good overview for learners with no prior knowledge of robotics.
A fun and practical guide to using electronics and robotics to survive a zombie apocalypse. Provides creative and innovative ideas for using technology in unexpected ways.
A beginner-friendly introduction to electronics, covering basic concepts and simple projects. Suitable for hobbyists and makers with no prior knowledge of electronics.

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