Introduction to Physical Computing
As shown by gestural touch screens, weight-reactive surfaces and wearable digital devices, there is huge demand for well-integrated devices and services that seamlessly couple people and environments. The designers who create such products are able to interface computers with real-world inputs and outputs and give people new ways of controlling and experiencing their devices and information. This course will provide a rapid and simple technical introduction to basic electronics (components, circuits, microcontrollers, etc.). Emphasis is placed on applying HCI design concepts to physically-interactive product development. Projects that blend electronics, programming and design are required.
Prerequisites: Third year standing in CIAS or GCCIS and any programming course.
Required Textbook and Supplies
- Making Things Talk: Practical Methods for Connecting Physical Objects.
Tom Igoe. Make Books, 2007. - (Recommended: Physical Computing: Sensing and Controlling the Physical World with Computers. Tom Igoe and Dan O'Sullivan. Course Technology PTR, 2004.)
- Sneakernet: You should purchase and bring a USB flash drive (thumb drive) to class to temporarily save your in-class work and take it somewhere more permanent.
- Arduino USB Board (RIT Bookstore, Art Department)
- Solderless breadboard (RIT Bookstore, Art Department)
- USB A/B cable, same as for printers, scanners, etc. (RIT Bookstore, Computer Department)