So I recently bought this book (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0945053282) and this kit (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BT0NDB8/) and quickly went through both. I enjoyed the process, but for some of the basic projects in the kit, I didn't really understand the full reasons behind why things were wired the way they were, particularly once they started using diodes and transistors.
Now that I have an arduino, I'd like to continue progressing in my knowledge, but I'm wondering if anyone has any advice on where I should go next. More project kits? Are there any that help explain why a particular circuit is designed the way it is?
I'd recommend experiential learning or learning by doing. Pick a real problem to solve (like making sure the garage is closed) or a project that supports an interest you have (like automating your aquarium.) This applied approach will be fun and you'll be solving a real world challenge.
lafontas:
I'd recommend experiential learning or learning by doing. Pick a real problem to solve (like making sure the garage is closed) or a project that supports an interest you have (like automating your aquarium.) This applied approach will be fun and you'll be solving a real world challenge.
Yeah, my only issue with that is that it's sort of the same thing. I have project ideas in mind, like motion detectors and what not, but even if I find a particular part that I think might be interesting, it's hard to know how to use it in practice.
For instance, in one tutorial it had me using a relay switch, which I got the basic principle of, but I had no idea how they came up with the sections of the circuit that used the transistor and diode. Here's a photo of the diagram I'm referring to: Dropbox - 2014-09-11 18.00.57.jpg - Simplify your life
I think you need an understanding of basic electronics before getting into the cookie cutter stuff. You can't really learn much from copying someone else's hardware and software. There are lots of tutorials online, free.
I looked this one over briefly and I really like what I saw. Basic Electronics
dellis23:
Are there any that help explain why a particular circuit is designed the way it is?
Thanks!
Well if you want to push yourself but avoid too mathematical an approach I
still think Horowitz & Hill's "The Art of Electronics" is hard to beat as an
electronics bible.
