Arduino hardware hacking: Part 2

"Wiring the game

"This is what you'll need to build your own Simon:

"The Arduino board
3 x switches
3 x LEDs
3 x 1k Ohm resistors for the switches
3 x 1k Ohm resistors for the LEDs

"We also use the solderless breadboard from the original article to position all the components and wire them together.

"The first thing we need to do is plug in the switches. These have four prongs, but you only need to use two on the same side. We placed our three switches so they bridged the central divide of the breadboard, and we'll only connect the two pins on one side of the divide, and use the space on the other side of the divide to connect the LEDs.

"You need to give your design a little ergonomic consideration, because people are going to want to play with your device, but they won't want to wrestle with the wires and resistors, which can get in the way. You also need to bear in mind the way that the LEDs are going to fit, as these need to line up with the buttons, so that it's clear which LED in the sequence corresponds to which button.

"We weren't too successful with our layout, and if you share our lack of Jonathan Ive-style design skills, you may find that you need to start the whole process again when you understand more about the implications of where you put the wires and resistors."

Complete Story

Related Stories:

• Arduino hardware hacking: Part 1(Mar 23, 2009)
• Building A Linux Computer: Part 5: Finishing Touches(Jan 08, 2009)
• Building an Arduino-Based Laser Game(Dec 25, 2008)
• 5 Regal Microcontrollers meet His Majesty Linux(Dec 07, 2008)
• Microcontrolling on the Cheap With Arduino and Linux(Oct 07, 2008)