CEED Wiki - User contributions [en]

Item:Q86

2022-09-11T23:16:08Z

Akhan325: /* wbeditentity-create-item:0| */

Item:Q85

2022-09-11T22:59:55Z

Akhan325: /* wbeditentity-create-item:0| */

Item:Q84

2022-09-11T22:54:30Z

Akhan325: /* wbeditentity-create-item:0| */

Item:Q83

2022-09-11T22:53:06Z

Akhan325: /* wbeditentity-create-item:0| */

Item:Q82

2022-09-11T22:48:23Z

Akhan325: /* wbeditentity-create-item:0| */

Item:Q81

2022-09-11T22:47:02Z

Akhan325: /* wbeditentity-create-item:0| */

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-29T16:42:09Z

Akhan325: /* HTC Vive */

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.
[[File:Vive cont.png|left|thumb|Cited from: https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/96a045f7-6590-4ef1-a270-cbe1aa5c3a84_1.a9446a4691bec18f7ca8050976af7b3a.jpeg]]
[[File:Vest.png|none|thumb|312x312px|Cited from: https://www.bhaptics.com/tactsuit]]

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject. Additionally, VR simulations will be used to explain complex procedures and treatments to patients in order to ease their anxiety and further their knowledge of their conditions. <ref>E. Delzell, “Virtual reality: How is it used in medicine?,” ''WebMD''. [Online]. Available: <nowiki>https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/features/virtual-reality-medicine#:~:text=Therapeutic%20virtual%20reality%20(VR)%2C,complex%20medical%20procedure%20or%20condition</nowiki>. [Accessed: 23-Aug-2022].</ref> Furthermore, overtime more companies have begun using VR to demonstrate their product in order to allow their consumers to have a better understanding of the products that they will be using.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should
<youtube>DvjgvDPOtN4</youtube>

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.
<youtube>rv6nVPPDmEI</youtube>

== VR Game and Application Development ==
There are many different tools and platforms that you can use in order to develop VR games and applications. There are a few things to look into when deciding what software to use for your app. For example:

* What equipment will you be using? Oculus, HTC VIVE, Playstation etc.
* What is the purpose of the software? Will you make a game, animation, application?

'''Some examples of software are:'''

* '''[https://unity.com/ Unity:]''' Can make games, applications and has many online tutorials. Can make programs compatible with many different types of headsets. Click [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfcX07uiQmA&list=PLnaniYoE3lPtwmwlRRKUtxT9fF7I3UJfO here] for further information on how to develop using Unity with the HTC Vive.
* '''[https://aws.amazon.com/sumerian/ Amazon Sumerian:]''' This application is really good for creating training simulations and doesn’t require you to have any previous programming knowledge to use it.
* '''[https://developers.google.com/vr Google VR for Everyone:]''' This software has multiple different tools that can be used on multiple different platforms such as Unity, Unreal, Android etc.
* '''[https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US Unreal Engine 4:]''' This platform allows you to create various different applications and allows you to access the C++ and python of the application as well.
* '''[https://www.cryengine.com/ CryEngine:]''' can create various different applications that can be used with the Oculus, PlayStation and etc.
* '''[https://www.blender.org/ Blender:]''' this application is great for creating characters and 3D videos for a VR, an experienced VR character is able to further manipulate the application via Python scripts.<ref>A. Davies, “10 great tools for VR Development I DevTeam.space,” ''DevTeam.Space'', 29-Jun-2022. [Online]. Available: <nowiki>https://www.devteam.space/blog/10-great-tools-for-vr-development/</nowiki>. [Accessed: 23-Aug-2022].</ref>

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

== References ==
<references />

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-29T16:41:44Z

Akhan325: /* Other VR Devices */

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.
[[File:Vive cont.png|left|thumb|Cited from: https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/96a045f7-6590-4ef1-a270-cbe1aa5c3a84_1.a9446a4691bec18f7ca8050976af7b3a.jpeg]]
[[File:Vest.png|none|thumb|312x312px|Cited from: https://www.bhaptics.com/tactsuit]]

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject. Additionally, VR simulations will be used to explain complex procedures and treatments to patients in order to ease their anxiety and further their knowledge of their conditions. <ref>E. Delzell, “Virtual reality: How is it used in medicine?,” ''WebMD''. [Online]. Available: <nowiki>https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/features/virtual-reality-medicine#:~:text=Therapeutic%20virtual%20reality%20(VR)%2C,complex%20medical%20procedure%20or%20condition</nowiki>. [Accessed: 23-Aug-2022].</ref> Furthermore, overtime more companies have begun using VR to demonstrate their product in order to allow their consumers to have a better understanding of the products that they will be using.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should

<youtube>DvjgvDPOtN4</youtube>

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.
<youtube>rv6nVPPDmEI</youtube>

== VR Game and Application Development ==
There are many different tools and platforms that you can use in order to develop VR games and applications. There are a few things to look into when deciding what software to use for your app. For example:

* What equipment will you be using? Oculus, HTC VIVE, Playstation etc.
* What is the purpose of the software? Will you make a game, animation, application?

'''Some examples of software are:'''

* '''[https://unity.com/ Unity:]''' Can make games, applications and has many online tutorials. Can make programs compatible with many different types of headsets. Click [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfcX07uiQmA&list=PLnaniYoE3lPtwmwlRRKUtxT9fF7I3UJfO here] for further information on how to develop using Unity with the HTC Vive.
* '''[https://aws.amazon.com/sumerian/ Amazon Sumerian:]''' This application is really good for creating training simulations and doesn’t require you to have any previous programming knowledge to use it.
* '''[https://developers.google.com/vr Google VR for Everyone:]''' This software has multiple different tools that can be used on multiple different platforms such as Unity, Unreal, Android etc.
* '''[https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US Unreal Engine 4:]''' This platform allows you to create various different applications and allows you to access the C++ and python of the application as well.
* '''[https://www.cryengine.com/ CryEngine:]''' can create various different applications that can be used with the Oculus, PlayStation and etc.
* '''[https://www.blender.org/ Blender:]''' this application is great for creating characters and 3D videos for a VR, an experienced VR character is able to further manipulate the application via Python scripts.<ref>A. Davies, “10 great tools for VR Development I DevTeam.space,” ''DevTeam.Space'', 29-Jun-2022. [Online]. Available: <nowiki>https://www.devteam.space/blog/10-great-tools-for-vr-development/</nowiki>. [Accessed: 23-Aug-2022].</ref>

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

== References ==
<references />

File:Vest.png

2022-08-29T16:38:47Z

Akhan325:

ref: https://www.bhaptics.com/tactsuit

File:Vive cont.png

2022-08-29T16:36:54Z

Akhan325:

ref: https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/96a045f7-6590-4ef1-a270-cbe1aa5c3a84_1.a9446a4691bec18f7ca8050976af7b3a.jpeg

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-29T16:33:37Z

Akhan325: /* Uses for VR */

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject. Additionally, VR simulations will be used to explain complex procedures and treatments to patients in order to ease their anxiety and further their knowledge of their conditions. <ref>E. Delzell, “Virtual reality: How is it used in medicine?,” ''WebMD''. [Online]. Available: <nowiki>https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/features/virtual-reality-medicine#:~:text=Therapeutic%20virtual%20reality%20(VR)%2C,complex%20medical%20procedure%20or%20condition</nowiki>. [Accessed: 23-Aug-2022].</ref> Furthermore, overtime more companies have begun using VR to demonstrate their product in order to allow their consumers to have a better understanding of the products that they will be using.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should

<youtube>DvjgvDPOtN4</youtube>

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.
<youtube>rv6nVPPDmEI</youtube>

== VR Game and Application Development ==
There are many different tools and platforms that you can use in order to develop VR games and applications. There are a few things to look into when deciding what software to use for your app. For example:

* What equipment will you be using? Oculus, HTC VIVE, Playstation etc.
* What is the purpose of the software? Will you make a game, animation, application?

'''Some examples of software are:'''

* '''[https://unity.com/ Unity:]''' Can make games, applications and has many online tutorials. Can make programs compatible with many different types of headsets. Click [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfcX07uiQmA&list=PLnaniYoE3lPtwmwlRRKUtxT9fF7I3UJfO here] for further information on how to develop using Unity with the HTC Vive.
* '''[https://aws.amazon.com/sumerian/ Amazon Sumerian:]''' This application is really good for creating training simulations and doesn’t require you to have any previous programming knowledge to use it.
* '''[https://developers.google.com/vr Google VR for Everyone:]''' This software has multiple different tools that can be used on multiple different platforms such as Unity, Unreal, Android etc.
* '''[https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US Unreal Engine 4:]''' This platform allows you to create various different applications and allows you to access the C++ and python of the application as well.
* '''[https://www.cryengine.com/ CryEngine:]''' can create various different applications that can be used with the Oculus, PlayStation and etc.
* '''[https://www.blender.org/ Blender:]''' this application is great for creating characters and 3D videos for a VR, an experienced VR character is able to further manipulate the application via Python scripts.<ref>A. Davies, “10 great tools for VR Development I DevTeam.space,” ''DevTeam.Space'', 29-Jun-2022. [Online]. Available: <nowiki>https://www.devteam.space/blog/10-great-tools-for-vr-development/</nowiki>. [Accessed: 23-Aug-2022].</ref>

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

== References ==
<references />

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-29T16:23:23Z

Akhan325: /* Other resources */

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should

<youtube>DvjgvDPOtN4</youtube>

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.
<youtube>rv6nVPPDmEI</youtube>

== VR Game and Application Development ==
There are many different tools and platforms that you can use in order to develop VR games and applications. There are a few things to look into when deciding what software to use for your app. For example:

* What equipment will you be using? Oculus, HTC VIVE, Playstation etc.
* What is the purpose of the software? Will you make a game, animation, application?

'''Some examples of software are:'''

* '''[https://unity.com/ Unity:]''' Can make games, applications and has many online tutorials. Can make programs compatible with many different types of headsets. Click [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfcX07uiQmA&list=PLnaniYoE3lPtwmwlRRKUtxT9fF7I3UJfO here] for further information on how to develop using Unity with the HTC Vive.
* '''[https://aws.amazon.com/sumerian/ Amazon Sumerian:]''' This application is really good for creating training simulations and doesn’t require you to have any previous programming knowledge to use it.
* '''[https://developers.google.com/vr Google VR for Everyone:]''' This software has multiple different tools that can be used on multiple different platforms such as Unity, Unreal, Android etc.
* '''[https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US Unreal Engine 4:]''' This platform allows you to create various different applications and allows you to access the C++ and python of the application as well.
* '''[https://www.cryengine.com/ CryEngine:]''' can create various different applications that can be used with the Oculus, PlayStation and etc.
* '''[https://www.blender.org/ Blender:]''' this application is great for creating characters and 3D videos for a VR, an experienced VR character is able to further manipulate the application via Python scripts.<ref>A. Davies, “10 great tools for VR Development I DevTeam.space,” ''DevTeam.Space'', 29-Jun-2022. [Online]. Available: <nowiki>https://www.devteam.space/blog/10-great-tools-for-vr-development/</nowiki>. [Accessed: 23-Aug-2022].</ref>

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

== References ==
<references />

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-29T16:22:58Z

Akhan325: /* VR Game and Application Development */

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should

<youtube>DvjgvDPOtN4</youtube>

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.
<youtube>rv6nVPPDmEI</youtube>

== VR Game and Application Development ==
There are many different tools and platforms that you can use in order to develop VR games and applications. There are a few things to look into when deciding what software to use for your app. For example:

* What equipment will you be using? Oculus, HTC VIVE, Playstation etc.
* What is the purpose of the software? Will you make a game, animation, application?

'''Some examples of software are:'''

* '''[https://unity.com/ Unity:]''' Can make games, applications and has many online tutorials. Can make programs compatible with many different types of headsets. Click [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfcX07uiQmA&list=PLnaniYoE3lPtwmwlRRKUtxT9fF7I3UJfO here] for further information on how to develop using Unity with the HTC Vive.
* '''[https://aws.amazon.com/sumerian/ Amazon Sumerian:]''' This application is really good for creating training simulations and doesn’t require you to have any previous programming knowledge to use it.
* '''[https://developers.google.com/vr Google VR for Everyone:]''' This software has multiple different tools that can be used on multiple different platforms such as Unity, Unreal, Android etc.
* '''[https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US Unreal Engine 4:]''' This platform allows you to create various different applications and allows you to access the C++ and python of the application as well.
* '''[https://www.cryengine.com/ CryEngine:]''' can create various different applications that can be used with the Oculus, PlayStation and etc.
* '''[https://www.blender.org/ Blender:]''' this application is great for creating characters and 3D videos for a VR, an experienced VR character is able to further manipulate the application via Python scripts.<ref>A. Davies, “10 great tools for VR Development I DevTeam.space,” ''DevTeam.Space'', 29-Jun-2022. [Online]. Available: <nowiki>https://www.devteam.space/blog/10-great-tools-for-vr-development/</nowiki>. [Accessed: 23-Aug-2022].</ref>

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-29T16:16:37Z

Akhan325: /* VR Game and Application Development */

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should

<youtube>DvjgvDPOtN4</youtube>

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.
<youtube>rv6nVPPDmEI</youtube>

== VR Game and Application Development ==
There are many different tools and platforms that you can use in order to develop VR games and applications. There are a few things to look into when deciding what software to use for your app. For example:

* What equipment will you be using? Oculus, HTC VIVE, Playstation etc.
* What is the purpose of the software? Will you make a game, animation, application?

'''Some examples of software are:'''

* '''Unity:''' Can make games, applications and has many online tutorials. Can make programs compatible with many different types of headsets. Click [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfcX07uiQmA&list=PLnaniYoE3lPtwmwlRRKUtxT9fF7I3UJfO here] for further information on how to develop using Unity with the HTC Vive.
* '''Amazon Sumerian:''' This application is really good for creating training simulations and doesn’t require you to have any previous programming knowledge to use it.
* '''Google VR for Everyone:''' This software has multiple different tools that can be used on multiple different platforms such as Unity, Unreal, Android etc.
* '''Unreal Engine 4:''' This platform allows you to create various different applications and allows you to access the C++ and python of the application as well.
* '''CryEngine:''' can create various different applications that can be used with the Oculus, PlayStation and etc.
* '''Blender:''' this application is great for creating characters and 3D videos for a VR, an experienced VR character is able to further manipulate the application via Python scripts.

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-29T16:13:43Z

Akhan325: /* Oculus Rift DevKit2 */

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should

<youtube>DvjgvDPOtN4</youtube>

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.
<youtube>rv6nVPPDmEI</youtube>

== VR Game and Application Development ==
There are many different tools and platforms that you can use in order to develop VR games and applications. There are a few things to look into when deciding what software to use for your app. For example:

* What equipment will you be using? Oculus, HTC VIVE, Playstation etc.
* What is the purpose of the software? Will you make a game, animation, application?

'''Some examples of software are:'''

* '''Unity:''' Can make games, applications and has many online tutorials. Can make programs compatible with many different types of headsets.
* '''Amazon Sumerian:''' This application is really good for creating training simulations and doesn’t require you to have any previous programming knowledge to use it.
* '''Google VR for Everyone:''' This software has multiple different tools that can be used on multiple different platforms such as Unity, Unreal, Android etc.
* '''Unreal Engine 4:''' This platform allows you to create various different applications and allows you to access the C++ and python of the application as well.
* '''CryEngine:''' can create various different applications that can be used with the Oculus, PlayStation and etc.
* '''Blender:''' this application is great for creating characters and 3D videos for a VR, an experienced VR character is able to further manipulate the application via Python scripts.

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-29T16:13:05Z

Akhan325: /* HTC Vive */

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.
<youtube>rv6nVPPDmEI</youtube>

== VR Game and Application Development ==
There are many different tools and platforms that you can use in order to develop VR games and applications. There are a few things to look into when deciding what software to use for your app. For example:

* What equipment will you be using? Oculus, HTC VIVE, Playstation etc.
* What is the purpose of the software? Will you make a game, animation, application?

'''Some examples of software are:'''

* '''Unity:''' Can make games, applications and has many online tutorials. Can make programs compatible with many different types of headsets.
* '''Amazon Sumerian:''' This application is really good for creating training simulations and doesn’t require you to have any previous programming knowledge to use it.
* '''Google VR for Everyone:''' This software has multiple different tools that can be used on multiple different platforms such as Unity, Unreal, Android etc.
* '''Unreal Engine 4:''' This platform allows you to create various different applications and allows you to access the C++ and python of the application as well.
* '''CryEngine:''' can create various different applications that can be used with the Oculus, PlayStation and etc.
* '''Blender:''' this application is great for creating characters and 3D videos for a VR, an experienced VR character is able to further manipulate the application via Python scripts.

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-29T16:11:42Z

Akhan325: /* HTC Vive */

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.

<youtube>rv6nVPPDmEI</youtube>

== VR Game and Application Development ==
There are many different tools and platforms that you can use in order to develop VR games and applications. There are a few things to look into when deciding what software to use for your app. For example:

* What equipment will you be using? Oculus, HTC VIVE, Playstation etc.
* What is the purpose of the software? Will you make a game, animation, application?

'''Some examples of software are:'''

* '''Unity:''' Can make games, applications and has many online tutorials. Can make programs compatible with many different types of headsets.
* '''Amazon Sumerian:''' This application is really good for creating training simulations and doesn’t require you to have any previous programming knowledge to use it.
* '''Google VR for Everyone:''' This software has multiple different tools that can be used on multiple different platforms such as Unity, Unreal, Android etc.
* '''Unreal Engine 4:''' This platform allows you to create various different applications and allows you to access the C++ and python of the application as well.
* '''CryEngine:''' can create various different applications that can be used with the Oculus, PlayStation and etc.
* '''Blender:''' this application is great for creating characters and 3D videos for a VR, an experienced VR character is able to further manipulate the application via Python scripts.

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-29T16:09:57Z

Akhan325: /* VR Game and Application Development */

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.

== VR Game and Application Development ==
There are many different tools and platforms that you can use in order to develop VR games and applications. There are a few things to look into when deciding what software to use for your app. For example:

* What equipment will you be using? Oculus, HTC VIVE, Playstation etc.
* What is the purpose of the software? Will you make a game, animation, application?

'''Some examples of software are:'''

* '''Unity:''' Can make games, applications and has many online tutorials. Can make programs compatible with many different types of headsets.
* '''Amazon Sumerian:''' This application is really good for creating training simulations and doesn’t require you to have any previous programming knowledge to use it.
* '''Google VR for Everyone:''' This software has multiple different tools that can be used on multiple different platforms such as Unity, Unreal, Android etc.
* '''Unreal Engine 4:''' This platform allows you to create various different applications and allows you to access the C++ and python of the application as well.
* '''CryEngine:''' can create various different applications that can be used with the Oculus, PlayStation and etc.
* '''Blender:''' this application is great for creating characters and 3D videos for a VR, an experienced VR character is able to further manipulate the application via Python scripts.

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-29T14:19:35Z

Akhan325:

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.

== VR Game and Application Development ==

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-25T12:43:34Z

Akhan325: /* Oculus Rift DevKit2 */

'''Virtual Reality (VR)''' is a system available at the Richard L'Abbe Makerspace which immerses users in virtual 360 environments. These environments can be in the form of 360 videos, 3D application projects (made in [[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity]] or Unreal), or '''augmented reality (AR)'''.

The Makerspace currently possesses two major VR systems: the Oculus Rift DK2 and the HTC Vive. Other VR and AR systems available include the Google Cardboard and Xbox Kinect.

== What is Virtual Reality (VR)? ==
Virtual Reality is a computer generated 3-dimensional simulation of a game or environment. The simulation is typically run on a device such as a computer, game console or smartphone, and the information is then sent to a VR headset.

==Available Systems in Makerspace==
[[File:OculusDevKit2.jpg|thumb|Oculus Rift DevKit 2]]

===Oculus Rift DevKit2===
The Oculus Rift system is a VR head-mounted display (HMD) system that is owned by Facebook Inc. The Development Kit 2 was introduced in 2014 and allowed developers to begin creating applications prior to the official release of the Oculus Rift system. The DevKit2 only supports positional tracking in the form of head movement within a small radius, and does not provide controllers or remotes to allow users to interact with their environments.

The headset has a 980x1080 (per eye) resolution, provided by a modified Samsung Galaxy Note 3 acting as it's screen.

===HTC Vive===
[[File:HTC Vive.png|thumb|HTC Vive]]
The HTC Vive is a full room-tracking VR system that includes one HMD, two handheld controllers, and two (or more) lighthouse base stations to track user positional data. The system was released in 2016 and became a very popular system due its robustness and immersive experience. The system was developed by HTC and Valve Corporation, and thus a developer package was released by Valve coined "SteamVR" to allow developers to create applications on the headset using the Unity game engine.

The headset has a 1080x1200 (per eye) resolution, a 90 Hz refresh rate, and a 110 degree nominal field of view. The headset also supports users wearing non-bulky glasses while playing by adjusting the headstrap, focal distance, and eye distance.

====Adjusting Headset for Usage====
If you would like to adjust the headset for your personal comfort, several steps can be taken to get the best possible experience. ''Note: a tight fit is imperative for a non-blurry experience.''

#To adjust the head size, undo the velcro on the left and right side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull both straps with equal force until the fit is tight, and then fasten the velcro again.
#To adjust the head size from the top for users with head garments or tied-up hair, undo the velcro on the top side of the headset. Once you put the headset on, pull the strap until it fits with your head size and doesn't slip off.
#To adjust the focal distance between the lenses and screen, locate the two mount points on either side of the headset (where the straps meet the display body) and pull the two gray dials outward. Once you've done so, turn both dials simultaneously either forward or backward until the image appears clear.
#To adjust the distance between eyes, locate the small adjustment dial on the lower-right side of the headset's display. With the headset on your head, turn the dial in either direction to adjust the distance between eyes. The exact distance modified will be shown on the HMD screen when the system is on. Adjust until image is visually clear.

[[File:Google Cardboard.png|thumb|Google Cardboard]]

===Google Cardboard===
The Google Cardboard is a lens display for most modern smartphone devices with built in gyroscopes. By inserting your phone into the headset and enabling VR mode, the HMD becomes a non-positional tracking 360 degree viewer that allows the viewing of 360 videos or scenarios.

====Smartphone Setup for 360 YouTube Videos====
In order to view 360 degree videos on the official YouTube app, follow the steps outlined below:

#Download the official YouTube app from the Appstore (IOS), Play Store (Android), or your smartphones personal app marketplace.
#Open the app and locate a video that is a 360 degree video.
#In the lower right corner of the video player, tap the Google Cardboard icon. A white bar should now appear in between the video.
#Place the phone in the cardboard and align the center of the headset with the white line on the video.
#Press play and fasten the velcro.

== Equipment and Systems ==

=== What are VR headsets? ===
A VR headset is a fully immersive device that is worn on your head; the device contains multiple sensors such as the gyroscope to help calibrate the movement in the simulation with your actual movement. There is a few different types of headsets:

==== Standalone ====
Standalone headsets are able to work independently of an external device such as a PC or gaming console. They have their own system that is able to power and run the simulation.

==== Tethered ====
Tethered headsets are used in collaboration with another device such as a PC or gaming console. These headsets act as the screens and sensor for the simulation however the actual image processing occurs within the external device. You are also able to get very basic VR headsets that can be used with your smartphones screen to create a virtual Environment.

=== Other VR Devices ===
Over time many various other devices have been created that allow you to interact with a VR simulation, for example, there are controllers shaped like weapons that interact with first-person combat games, additionally there are also vests that simulate sensations occurring in the simulation via vibration or temperature.

=== Uses for VR ===
VR is becoming increasingly useful for education and training, VR trainings in medicine allow students to interact with and experience various scenarios that give them a greater understanding of a subject.

=== What is Steam? ===
Steam is an online gaming library; it allows you to get access to and purchase various games that can be played on the PC. Many free and paid games can be found on the platform for you to use. Because using a VR headset requires the system to output the video to the headsets in a specific manner, SteamVR is used to play the VR games through your PC. The application is compatible with the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and etc.,

There are other softwares that can be used with the VR headset such as Littlestar, VRWorks, G2 Deals and etc, which software you would use is dependent on a few criteria, such as what kind of experience do you want from virtual reality, and if you would like to consume or create content.

== How to Set up the Systems ==

=== Oculus Rift DevKit2 ===

# Go to developer.oculusvr.com
# Click on PC SDK
# Then download and install the runtime and SDK file for your appropriate operating system.
# Plug the HDMI and USB into your computer and the other end into the headset.
# Next plug the power supply into the brick and then into the wall.
# Then plug the curved end of the sync cable into the camera’s top plug and the other end into the brick.
# Finally plug the curved end of the micro-USB into the camera and the other end into the computer.

'''How to configure'''

# Go to the eye icon in the taskbar and double click on it in order to open the configuration utility.
# Ensure that the device is on, and in here you can adjust the different parameters to calibrate the screen and you are also able to create profiles for each person to aid in swapping through different configurations.
# You are also able to edit the display mode from the Display Mode window found under tools.
# Furthermore, you may use demo scene to test out the VR and ensure that everything is working as they should

=== HTC Vive ===

# Set up your play area by placing the cameras in opposite corners of the play area (max distance of 5 meters)
# Go to https://www.vive.com/ca/setup/ and download the Vive software, you will also need Steam.
# Next mount the base stations and then attach the cameras and plug in the power cables. If the cameras are unable to see each other, use the sync cable.
# To wire the headset, plug the power adapter into the link box and then into the wall.
# Then you will connect the link box and PC via the USB and HDMI cable.
# Next you will connect the wires from the headset to the orange side of the link box.
# To set up the controllers, power them on.
# Finally, you will set up your play area by clicking on launch steam VR, then following the instructions on the screen.

==Tutorials on VR Development==

*[[Tutorial: Creating Virtual Reality Applications|Creating Virtual Reality Applications]]
*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Installing Unity]]
*[[Creating Unity Assets with SOLIDWORKS]]

==Other resources==

*[[Tutorial: Installing Unity|Large 3D Terrain Generator]]
*[[Unity (Game Engine)|Unity Game Engine]]

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-25T11:38:45Z

Akhan325:

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-25T11:31:57Z

Akhan325:

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-08-18T15:41:21Z

Akhan325: /* Equipment and Systems */

Digital technologies/Virtual reality/Virtual reality- Beginner

2022-07-31T12:02:03Z

Akhan325: /* Equipment and Systems */

Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Arduino troubleshooting

2022-07-31T11:40:52Z

Akhan325:

=== Drivers for Alternate Brand Arduino Boards ===
When using an Arduino for the first time, you may encounter some issues. This page will outline some of the most often issues seen, however, for more detail a search of the error in google will allow you to gain a further understanding of the problem at hand.

Arduino UNO make by a third-party company is not being registered/connecting to the Arduino board. Go to the manufacturers site and determine what libraries are missing and install them. For the board provided by the university you will need the following driver:

http://www.wch-ic.com/downloads/CH341SER_ZIP.html

'''Follow these steps:'''

* Select and download the driver appropriate for your operating system
* Unzip the folder and run the installer!

* Restart the Arduino IDE and attempt to run Blink as shown [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Programming Syntax and Conceptualization|here]].

=== Other Potential Problems ===
* If the port is still not showing up on the Arduino IDE as seen below, try to change the port being used and see if it is being registered.
[[File:Arduino IDE Menu.png|center|thumb|482x482px|Tools menu in Arduino IDE.]]

* Make sure that the correct board is selected as depicted in the figure above.

Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Arduino troubleshooting

2022-07-31T11:39:29Z

Akhan325:

=== Drivers for Alternate Brand Arduino Boards ===
When using an Arduino for the first time, you may encounter some issues. This page will outline some of the most often issues seen, however, for more detail a search of the error in google will allow you to gain a further understanding of the problem at hand.

Arduino UNO make by a third-party company is not being registered/connecting to the Arduino board. Go to the manufacturers site and determine what libraries are missing and install them. For the board provided by the university you will need the following driver:

http://www.wch-ic.com/downloads/CH341SER_ZIP.html

'''Follow these steps:'''

* Select and download the driver appropriate for your operating system
* Unzip the folder and run the installer!

* Restart the Arduino IDE and attempt to run Blink as shown [[here]].
* [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Programming Syntax and Conceptualization|Introduction to Programming Syntax and Conceptualization]]

=== Other Potential Problems ===
* If the port is still not showing up on the Arduino IDE as seen below, try to change the port being used and see if it is being registered.
[[File:Arduino IDE Menu.png|center|thumb|482x482px|Tools menu in Arduino IDE.]]

* Make sure that the correct board is selected as depicted in the figure above.

Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Arduino troubleshooting

2022-07-31T11:37:29Z

Akhan325:

=== Drivers for Alternate Brand Arduino Boards ===
When using an Arduino for the first time, you may encounter some issues. This page will outline some of the most often issues seen, however, for more detail a search of the error in google will allow you to gain a further understanding of the problem at hand.

Arduino UNO make by a third-party company is not being registered/connecting to the Arduino board. Go to the manufacturers site and determine what libraries are missing and install them. For the board provided by the university you will need the following driver:

http://www.wch-ic.com/downloads/CH341SER_ZIP.html

'''Follow these steps:'''

* Select and download the driver appropriate for your operating system
* Unzip the folder and run the installer!

* Restart the Arduino IDE and attempt to run Blink as shown [[here]] [INSERT LINK TO INSTRUCTION].

=== Other Potential Problems ===
* If the port is still not showing up on the Arduino IDE as seen below, try to change the port being used and see if it is being registered.
[[File:Arduino IDE Menu.png|center|thumb|482x482px|Tools menu in Arduino IDE.]]

* Make sure that the correct board is selected as depicted in the figure above.

Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner

2022-07-31T11:30:21Z

Akhan325:

==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Understanding Arduino Boards|Understanding Arduino Boards]]==

===What is a Micro-controller?===
A micro-controller is a compact integrated circuit that receives input from the environment, processes the input and can produce an output. It receives input from its I/O pins and processes the signals received using the CPU onboard the chip. Micro-controllers are usually embedded in larger systems and are utilized in many areas of life including vehicles, medical devices, home appliances, and more.

Arduino is an open source electronics platform that provides an easy and accessible way to make robotics projects. The boards are able to receive input signals from sensors and can produce outputs through I/O pins. Arduino boards are used by a diverse set of people, including students, hobbyists, engineers, researchers due to the simple layout and programmability of the Arduino boards.

An Arduino or microcontroller can be implemented in many ways:

* [https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/shubhamsuresh/how-to-make-a-bluetooth-controlled-rc-car-at-home-521212 A remote control car]
* [https://www.instructables.com/Arduino-Night-Light/ A night light]
* [https://www.instructables.com/Arduino-Kitchen-Scale/ A kitchen scale]
===Arduino board sections===
There are 5 important board sections that the user must have a solid understanding of to start utilizing the board's functions. These sections are outlined below:
[[File:Sections of an Arduino board.svg|alt=Figure 1: Arduino board sections|border|center|Figure 1: Arduino board sections]]
 
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 1: Description of the 5 main sections of an arduino board
!Section
!Description
|-
|USB connector
|The arduino can be powered through a type A/B USB connector from the user’s laptop/computer to the board. This port is also used to upload programs onto the board.
|-
|Power port
|The arduino board can be powered through an AC-DC adapter or a battery. The power jack of the board can be connected to a 2.1 mm center-positive plug.
|-
|Power pins
|To power external circuitry, 3 standard voltages (0 V or GND, 3.3V, 5V) are provided in the ‘Power Pins’ section of the board.
|-
|Digital pins
|Digital pins on the arduino board can be configured as an input or an output. When the pins are configured as an input, the pins will send a binary signal into the board, which enables the board to read the sensed logic voltage levels (ie. either 0/low or 1/high). If the digital pins are configured as an output, then the arduino will send a binary signal to the pin. There is a built-in LED pre-connected to digital pin 13. When the value of the pin is driven HIGH by the processor, the LED on the board is illuminated, when the pin is LOW, it's turned off. This can be used as a status indicator when programs are running.
|-
|Analog pins
|The analog pins allow the arduino board to receive or send an analog signal. These signals need to be converted into digital representations which can be used inside the software-executing portion of the Arduino processor (which only uses binary digital signals). Analog signal inputs can be accepted for conversion into digital via the Analog Pins header. The Analog to Digital (A/D or “A to D”) conversion is done inside the processor with specialized circuitry.
|}

===Analog VS Digital signals===
A signal is an electromagnetic or electric current that transfers information from one source to another. There are two main types of signals used in electronics: analog or digital signals.
[[File:AvD.jpg|thumb|181x181px|Analog vs. Digital signals [https://www.the-vital-edge.com/words-as-bridge/<nowiki>]</nowiki>]]

====Analog signals====
This is a time-varying and continuous type of signal that is often used to measure changes in light, sound, position, temperature, or other physical phenomena. When plotted in a voltage-time graph, the result is often a continuous and smooth curve.

====Digital signals====
A digital signal is a signal that represents information as a series of discrete binary values. Digital signals are used in all modern electronic applications, including communication and network devices. When plotted in a voltage-time graph, the signal is discrete, and ranges from 0 V to VCC (usually 1.8V, 3.3 V, or 5V).

=== [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Connecting to an Arduino|Connecting to an Arduino]] ===

* '''There are a few ways that you can ruin or burn your Arduino, refer to''' [[Five Easy ways to Kill an Arduino|this guide]] '''before starting for more information.'''

* '''If you are using a lab computer in the Faculty of Engineering refer to''' [[Digital technologies/Arduino/How to connect to lab computers|this guide]] '''for additional steps to connect the Arduino.'''

Step 1: Download the Arduino IDE from https://www.arduino.cc/en/software. Make sure to choose the version that is appropriate for your operating system.

Step 2: Connect the Arduino to your computer via an A/B type USB cable.

Step 3: Once the Arduino is connected, your computer will recognize the Arduino board as a generic COM port. The power LEDs onboard the Arduino should light up.

Step 4: Time to find out what port number is assigned so that the Arduino and computer can properly communicate with one another. in the IDE select Tools > Ports > Select a port. If even after selecting the port the Arduino doesn't connect, try a different port.

Step 5: Open the Arduino IDE. Under Tools>Board, ensure that the correct type of Arduino board is selected.

Step 6: Under Tools> COM, ensure that the “port” is the one shown in the step above. Check that the programmer is set as “AVRISP AKII”

==== Possible bugs: ====
If you're having trouble with your Arduino, refer to this guide: [[Arduino troubleshooting|'''Arduino troubleshooting''']]

<youtube>64oEr1zTlOg</youtube>

== [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Arduino IDE and Tools|Arduino IDE and Tools]] ==

===Arduino IDE:===
The process of programming includes designing and executing code in an integrated development environment, otherwise known as an IDE. Many different IDEs exist and are adopted for different usages, and allow programs to edit, debug, and execute (or compile) their code. In order to program an Arduino (regardless of what kind of microcontroller is used), one must have the Arduino IDE downloaded (Refer to '''[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Connecting to an Arduino|Connecting an Arduino]]''').

When beginning your journey in learning how to code, its important to get to know the integrated development environment, or IDE that the coder will use to edit and compile the written programs. The following figure guides the users on the basic options available on the IDE:

[[File:Arduino IDE2.jpg|930x930px]]

=== Internal Libraries ===

==== What is a library? ====
A library is a file that contains pre-written code that can be referred to in order to use certain sensors and functions. Often, in order to complete a task like connecting to a server to spinning a motor many lines of code must be written and executed. Libraries are bits of code that users can refer to in order to complete those tasks without having to type out each line of code, it simplifies the programming process and allows us to perform relatively complex tasks with ease.

In beginner topics we won’t be using complex or external libraries! But keep this in mind for the following ones as this will be necessary later on.

==== Built-in Libraries ====
Built-in libraries are ones that come preinstalled into the Arduino IDE, you don’t need to import the library into the IDE. An example of this type of library is the math.h library, which is used for most basic math operations.

''Where to find them?''

There are a few ways to look at what built-in libraries are available, you can do a quick search in different online Arduino forums, or the easiest way is to look at the library manager in the Arduino IDE. This window displays libraries that are already installed and you also have the ability to install new libraries that would would like.
As seen below, in the menu bar at the top of the window click on ''Tools > Manage Libraries...'' [[File:Library Dropdown.jpg|none|thumb|627x627px]]Inside the manager as seen below you are able to select the type of library you are looking for, for example, installed, etc.[[File:Manage libraries.png|thumb|alt=|none|783x783px]]

When wanting to use a library, one must declare it at the top of their code so that their IDE knows that that file is being referred to, the syntax is:
#include<math.h>

=== Serial Monitors ===
The serial monitor is a function in the Arduino IDE that allows you to interact with your Arduino. Through it you are able to send information and also receive feedback or the system output, this aids in debugging and interacting with the program.

The serial monitor can be accessed in two locations: the icon in the bar at the top of the IDE, as seen in the figure below.
[[File:Serial MOnitor 2.png|center|thumb|667x667px]]

And in the following drop down menu as shown below:
[[File:SML2.png|center|thumb|536x536px]]

A few features to note is the baud rate and auto scroll functionality. The baud rate must match the one dictated in the program, this value dictates that rate that the Arduino and IDE communicate with each other.

[[File:Tempsnip.png|center|thumb|808x808px]]When using the serial monitor it must be initialized in the code for a specific baud rate as follows:
Void Setup {

Serial.begin(9600); //this initializes the monitor at a baud rate of 9600 }

There are a few different ways to output values on to the serial monitor for example when wanting to output the value held by a variable the following syntax can be used:
Serial.print(variable_name):

Serial.println(variable_name); //for outputting each value on a new line

Alternatively, when wanting to output a string or phrase the following syntax can be used:
Serial.print("INSERT PHRASE");

Serial.println("INSERT PHRASE"); //for outputting each value on a new line

<youtube>f1z-1Db2IAI</youtube>

==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Programming Syntax and Conceptualization|Introduction to Programming Syntax and Conceptualization]]==
As mentioned previously, and IDE is used to compile and execute the code utilized in a microcontroller. There are many different IDEs that can be used for various types of microcontroller and for each purpose there are more suitable boards that can be used. In order to program an Arduino, one must have the Arduino IDE downloaded (Refer to '''[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Connecting to an Arduino|Connecting an Arduino]]'''). The Arduino IDE provides users with a programming editor as well as a way to easily upload and compile programs onto the Arduino board. Programs in the Arduino IDE are called sketches, and are normally saved with the .ino extension. The language used to program the Arduino board is based on the C++ language, which is a general use Object Oriented language. Like any common language, in order to start coding, one must be aware of the grammar rules and vocabulary that is used. An important word that will be often encountered is a “function”, which is a block of code that takes in an input, processes the input, then returns an output.

=== Blink program: An Example ===
The Arduino IDE provides creators with a plethora of written programs that are fully ready to run on an Arduino board. They are located in the Files>Examples folder. Among the most basic is the "Blink" program, which can be used to not only get to know the basic features in the software and the hardware, but are also a great way to test the connectivity between the Arduino board and the user's computer. This program is located in Files>Examples>01.Basics>Blink.

The following provides an overview of the different functions used in this program:
[[File:Blink program overview.jpg|center|frameless|800x800px]]
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 2: Overview of functions used in the Blink program
!Function
!Description
|-
|Setup()
|Performs any actions that are initially required to run the rest of the program, such as initializing any peripheral components and setting the communication frequency between the Arduino and the PC.
|-
|Loop()
|The loop function acts as the program's driver, it runs on a continuous loop and specifies the order of operation the microcontroller will perform. Execution starts at the top, goes through the contents of the loop and then starts executing from the top again. This procedure is repeated forever.
|-
|pinMode (pin number, INPUT or Output)
|Configures the pin to behave as either an INPUT or an OUTPUT.
|-
|digitalWrite (pin number, HIGH or LOW)
|Writes a HIGH or LOW value to a digital pin. If the pin has been configured as an OUTPUT, then the signal sent over (ie the voltage) will be set as 5 V (HIGH), or 0 V (LOW). For 3.3 V output boards, the high value will be set to 3.3 V, whereas the low is the same as the 5V board, which is 0V.
|-
|Delay (time in milliseconds)
|Pauses the program for the amount of time specified in the parameter.
|}

=== Initializing a Pin as an Input or Output ===
When using components you will often have to initialize the pin they are connected to as either an input or output! The syntax for this will vary depending on the component and what pin type it is connected to.

==== Analog Input/output ====
When trying to manipulate data from an analog pin, the following lines of code are used to read data from it:
int ''variable'' = analogRead(''insert pin number''); //here a variable is being defined to hold the value read from the pin
When you want to write data to the pin the following syntax is used:
int ''variable'' = analogWrite(''insert pin number''); //here a variable is being defined to hold the value read from the pin

==== Digital Input/output ====
When wanting to use a digital pin you will need to declare as either an input or output in the Void Setup () as follows:
pinMode(LED1, OUTPUT); //For example if you had a pin called LED1
When wanting to write a value to LED1 then you would use the following syntax:
digitalWrite(LED1, HIGH); //Here HIGH or LOW would indicate if you would like the led to turn on - for turning it on you set HIGH, and LOW otherwise.

====== Some other basic considerations: ======
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 3: Overview of some basic elements of programming
!
!Symbol
!Description
|-
|Brackets
|{....}
|Starts and ends a function or is used to group different statements together
|-
|Comment bars
|/* ….*/ or //
|Allows coders to add comments to their code to make it more readable to other humans. Important to note that all comments do not get executed by the program and therefore do not alter the program!
|-
|Semicolon
|...;
|This character ends a program statement and lets the compiler know ‘the end of the current line/statement’
|}
It is also important to be aware that the Arduino editor is case sensitive, meaning that the words “DOOR” and “Door” are not understood to be the same word by the compiler. Furthermore, to make writing and editing code more friendly, the Arduino IDE will colour code important functions, comments, etc. This will be seen later in this section.

As seen below, certain preexisting functions in the Arduino IDE will often times be a certain colour. This is a good indicator of if whether or not you have written the function correctly.
[[File:IDEAFS.png|center|thumb|587x587px|Cited from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Arduino_IDE_-_Blink.png]]

=== Pseudocode and Flowcharts ===
As the complexity of your projects progress keeping track of all the different functions will likely become increasingly more difficult. Some tools that are often used to help create a layout of what the purpose of the programs is include pseudocode and flowchart. They both aid in visualizing and outlining the logic behind your code, the difference between the two is that flowcharts are more visually based and in contrast pseudocode is a typed-up outline of the code [refer to examples below].
[[File:PseudoCode Example.png|none|frame|Example Pseudocode. (Source: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Simple-inheritance-mechanism-pseudocode_fig3_7305018)]]
[[File:Flowchart Example.png|none|frame|Flowchart Example (Source: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG6ePePp5vvYVEjRanyndt7ZSqTzillom)]]

This allows the designer (you) to be able to work through the logic behind the code before creating it, allowing for a far smoother design process.

<youtube>rSz7549WSjY</youtube>

== [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Variables and Conditional Statements|Introduction to Variables and Conditional Statements]] ==

===Variables===
Variables allow information in programmers to be stored or changed within the code. In order to create a variable within your program, it must be declared. To declare a variable, the coder has to write the type of variable to be declared first. Different types exist, most commonly used are:
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 4: Summary of commonly used variable types
!Type
!Syntax
|-
|Integers
|int
|-
|non-integers (rational and non-rational)
|double or float
|-
|characters
|char
|}
After declaring the variable type, the coder must then name the variable. The variable name should clearly reflect the purpose of the value, so that the coder and the reader can easily identify which value is associated with what variable. Additionally, variables cannot have spaces embedded within the name. For example, "My deposit" is not a valid variable name, but "MyDeposit" is. Note that capitalization can be useful for readability. Furthermore, variables should not start with digits, or with an underscore "_".

After naming the variable, the coder can choose to initialize the variable, which is choosing an initial value to be associated with the variable (which can change throughout the program). Be careful to stay consistent with the type of the variable. For example, you cannot initialize the variable int Age with a value of "k", as "k" is not an integer. The code segments below illustrate the process of initialization:
int a;// not initialized, which is ok!

double b=1.23;/* Note that the 1.23 value matches with the “double” type which is a rational number*/

char MyVariable = “h”; //note the semicolons!
The following will produce an error, which will disable the compiler from compiling your code:
char YourVariable= 1.23; // 1.23 is not a character!
Variables can be classified into either global or local variables. The main difference is the scope at which they can be accessed. A global variable can be accessed by all functions that exist within a program, whereas a local variable can be accessed through only the function where it is declared. The example below illustrates this well [https://www.arduino.cc/reference/en/language/variables/variable-scope-qualifiers/scope/<nowiki>]:</nowiki>
/* There are two functions in this program: setup() and loop(), and three variables: "k", "i", "f".*/

int k; // any function will see this variable, thus called a global variable.

void setup() {

// ... }

void loop() {

int i; // "i" is only "visible" inside of "loop"

float f; } // "f" is only "visible" inside of "loop"

.....// some lines of code}
===Conditionals===
Conditional statements are programming operations that tells the computer to perform an action for a certain set of conditions. An "if" statement is the most common, and tells the computer to perform a set of actions only if the condition is fulfilled. The syntax is the following:
if (condition) {

/// a set of instructions }
Common alteration of the if statements are the "if...else" and "if... else if". The "if...else" conditionals first checks the "if" conditional, in the case that its true, the compiler will ignore the "else" set of instructions. In the case that the condition(s) declared in the "if" statement are not fulfilled, the "else" instructions will automatically run. The syntax for an "if...else" statement is:
if (condition){

///instructions;}

else {

///instructions that will ONLY run in the case the "if" conditions are not fulfilled }
In the case of the "if...else if" set of instructions, the program will only run if the conditions specified in the "if" or "else if" are true. The syntax is the following:
if (condition){

///instructions }

else if (condition) {

///instructions }

<youtube>YktSocf2vSc</youtube>

==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Electronics and Circuitry|Introduction to Electronics and Circuitry]]==
===Introduction to Circuits===
A circuit is a pathway where electricity can flow through a closed path from the negative (cathode) to the positive (anode) end of a power source. Elements in a circuit can either supply or expend energy. Energy is measured in Joules (J). Suppliers of energy are called sources; they provide a voltage, or charge electrons with energy. The number of electrons flowing in a circuit is called a current, measured in Amperes (A). A common voltage source is a chemical battery, which is an example of a direct-current power source (DC). It provides electrons with a fixed amount of energy (i.e. a fixed voltage) through a chemical reaction within a battery. Resistance is a value that describes how easy for electrons to move in a material when voltage is applied. Resistors are devices that can be added to the circuit to impede current flow.

=== Ohm's Law ===
There are a few ways to calculate the required values for each component, however one of the basic ways of calculating them is '''Ohm's law'''.

The relationship that represents the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance is ohm’s law, represented by: '''V=IR'''. The power source in a circuit determines the voltage supplied and the current available. The connected components will draw current from the power source.

There are three arrangements of circuits, series, parallel, and combination.
[[File:Ohms law diagram.png|thumb|248x248px|Ohm's Law (Source: https://learn.digilentinc.com/Documents/331)]]

==== Series Circuits ====
In a series circuit, the amount of current flowing is the same at all points in the circuit, whereas the voltage supplied by the battery is equal to the voltage drop across each component. A series circuit has only one path for electricity to flow, so if any component fails in the circuit, all other components will also stop operating, as the circuit is now open.

==== Parallel Circuits ====
In a parallel circuit, the voltage is the same in all branches, whereas the current is different in each branch.

[[File:Series vs parallel resistance.png|center|thumb|786x786px|(Source: https://makeabilitylab.github.io/physcomp/electronics/series-parallel.html)]]

<youtube>F_vLWkkOETI</youtube>

=== Introduction to Electronic Components ===

==== Breadboard ====
A breadboard is used to prototype a temporary circuit. The user can build, test and analyze a circuit without any permanent connections. It is made up of terminal strips and power rails. The terminal strips are used to hold any number of components in place and make electrical connections in a horizontal row. The power rails are the long vertical strips and are used to facilitate power (+) and ground (-) connections by placing them all in one column.
[[File:BB-2.png|center|thumb|682x682px|Connections inside a breadboard (Source: https://dreyfuzz.github.io/hackinghardware/)]]
==== LED ====
A Light Emitting Diode, or LED, is a semiconductor device that lights up when an electric current passes through it. They come in many different colours and shapes, and are very versatile. LEDs are diodes, which means that current flows through the element in only one way, from the positive to the negative end. On an LED, the cathode end can be identified by either a flat edge on the body, or as the shorter leg. As such, the anode is the other end (the longer leg on the LED).
[[File:LED - 1.png|center|thumb|198x198px|(Source: https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/rowan07/make-a-simple-led-circuit-ce8308)]]

====Pushbutton====
A pushbutton is an electronic switch component that completes the circuit only when pressed. In an electric circuit, electricity needs to flow continuously through the circuit in order for all parts to function. The pushbutton interrupts this circuit and forms a gap, so that electricity doesn't flow to the other side of the pushbutton. When the pushbutton is pressed. a small spring is activated that is made of conducting material so that electricity flows through the spring to the other side of the pushbutton.
[[File:Pushb.png|center|thumb|(Source: https://www.sparkfun.com/products/9190)]]

====Resistor====
A resistor is an electrical component which creates electrical impedance, or resistance to current flow. The amount of resistance a resistor provides can be read from the bands of colour on the resistor, which are read left to right. For four bands resistors, the first and second bands represent digits, while the third band represents a multiplier to multiply the digits of the first and second band by. The fourth band is the tolerance, it represents how much the resistor may deviate from the value indicated by the bands. The value of the resistor can also be determined using the ohmic function of a multimeter.

Resistors are often used in series with components to reduce the amount of current flowing through a circuit, often to protect components rated for lower current amounts. Pull-up and pull-down resistors are used to bias an input on the Arduino to be either HIGH or LOW respectively. This needs to be done as the resting level of the input isn’t necessarily 0. This is especially useful when working with sensors that have an analog output.
[[File:Resistor 1.png|left|thumb|(Source: https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-resistor/)]]
[[File:Bands.png|none|thumb|453x453px|How to read a resistor. (Source: https://www.arrow.com/en/research-and-events/articles/resistor-color-code)]]

==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Sensors|Introduction to Sensors]]==
Sensors enable the microcontroller to sense the surrounding environment. Many sensors exist on the market, including but not limited to buttons, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, photoresistors, humidity and moisture, and many more. The output of the sensor (a voltage) changes based on the measured environment properties, and sends that signal over to the Arduino board.

Different sensors will use different voltage levels and different methods of communication with microcontrollers. It is always important to read their datasheet and make sure they are compatible with your system before continuing or design your system around the sensor specifications.

[[File:Sensors1.png|center|frame|(Source: https://www.electronicshub.org/different-types-sensors/)]]

== [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Online Simulators|Online Simulators]] ==
Tinkercad is an online platform that enables users to virtually model 3D designs and circuits. Its user friendly interface and functionality encourages students and hobbyists to investigate the functionality of the Arduino boards virtually, as well as start building their designs. To sign up, create an account on: https://www.tinkercad.com, or alternatively, login with google, facebook etc…

Once your account is created, the user can navigate to the “circuits” tab in the left-hand menu, and click on “ Create new circuit”. This opens a new tab, where the available circuit components can be viewed in the right-hand menu.

To start putting a circuit together, the user can drag the components from the library and place it in the “building zone”, noted above. In addition, note the “Code” button in the top bar; this button enables the users to program the Arduino to perform specific functions. To start the simulation, the “start simulation” is available in the top tab.

For more information refer to the following resources:

* [https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/circuits '''Tinkercad: Circuits''']
* [https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/codeblocks '''Tinkercad: Programming''']

Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Connecting to an Arduino

2022-07-31T11:29:01Z

Akhan325: Created page with "{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner|Connecting to an Arduino}}"

{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner|[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Connecting to an Arduino|Connecting to an Arduino]]}}

Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner

2022-07-31T11:26:52Z

Akhan325:

==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Understanding Arduino Boards|Understanding Arduino Boards]]==

===What is a Micro-controller?===
A micro-controller is a compact integrated circuit that receives input from the environment, processes the input and can produce an output. It receives input from its I/O pins and processes the signals received using the CPU onboard the chip. Micro-controllers are usually embedded in larger systems and are utilized in many areas of life including vehicles, medical devices, home appliances, and more.

Arduino is an open source electronics platform that provides an easy and accessible way to make robotics projects. The boards are able to receive input signals from sensors and can produce outputs through I/O pins. Arduino boards are used by a diverse set of people, including students, hobbyists, engineers, researchers due to the simple layout and programmability of the Arduino boards.

An Arduino or microcontroller can be implemented in many ways:

* [https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/shubhamsuresh/how-to-make-a-bluetooth-controlled-rc-car-at-home-521212 A remote control car]
* [https://www.instructables.com/Arduino-Night-Light/ A night light]
* [https://www.instructables.com/Arduino-Kitchen-Scale/ A kitchen scale]
===Arduino board sections===
There are 5 important board sections that the user must have a solid understanding of to start utilizing the board's functions. These sections are outlined below:
[[File:Sections of an Arduino board.svg|alt=Figure 1: Arduino board sections|border|center|Figure 1: Arduino board sections]]
 
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 1: Description of the 5 main sections of an arduino board
!Section
!Description
|-
|USB connector
|The arduino can be powered through a type A/B USB connector from the user’s laptop/computer to the board. This port is also used to upload programs onto the board.
|-
|Power port
|The arduino board can be powered through an AC-DC adapter or a battery. The power jack of the board can be connected to a 2.1 mm center-positive plug.
|-
|Power pins
|To power external circuitry, 3 standard voltages (0 V or GND, 3.3V, 5V) are provided in the ‘Power Pins’ section of the board.
|-
|Digital pins
|Digital pins on the arduino board can be configured as an input or an output. When the pins are configured as an input, the pins will send a binary signal into the board, which enables the board to read the sensed logic voltage levels (ie. either 0/low or 1/high). If the digital pins are configured as an output, then the arduino will send a binary signal to the pin. There is a built-in LED pre-connected to digital pin 13. When the value of the pin is driven HIGH by the processor, the LED on the board is illuminated, when the pin is LOW, it's turned off. This can be used as a status indicator when programs are running.
|-
|Analog pins
|The analog pins allow the arduino board to receive or send an analog signal. These signals need to be converted into digital representations which can be used inside the software-executing portion of the Arduino processor (which only uses binary digital signals). Analog signal inputs can be accepted for conversion into digital via the Analog Pins header. The Analog to Digital (A/D or “A to D”) conversion is done inside the processor with specialized circuitry.
|}

===Analog VS Digital signals===
A signal is an electromagnetic or electric current that transfers information from one source to another. There are two main types of signals used in electronics: analog or digital signals.
[[File:AvD.jpg|thumb|181x181px|Analog vs. Digital signals [https://www.the-vital-edge.com/words-as-bridge/<nowiki>]</nowiki>]]

====Analog signals====
This is a time-varying and continuous type of signal that is often used to measure changes in light, sound, position, temperature, or other physical phenomena. When plotted in a voltage-time graph, the result is often a continuous and smooth curve.

====Digital signals====
A digital signal is a signal that represents information as a series of discrete binary values. Digital signals are used in all modern electronic applications, including communication and network devices. When plotted in a voltage-time graph, the signal is discrete, and ranges from 0 V to VCC (usually 1.8V, 3.3 V, or 5V).

=== [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Connecting to an Arduino|Connecting to an Arduino]] ===

* '''There are a few ways that you can ruin or burn your Arduino, refer to''' [[Five Easy ways to Kill an Arduino|this guide]] '''before starting for more information.'''

* '''If you are using a lab computer in the Faculty of Engineering refer to''' [[Digital technologies/Arduino/How to connect to lab computers|this guide]] '''for additional steps to connect the Arduino.'''

Step 1: Download the Arduino IDE from https://www.arduino.cc/en/software. Make sure to choose the version that is appropriate for your operating system.

Step 2: Connect the Arduino to your computer via an A/B type USB cable.

Step 3: Once the Arduino is connected, your computer will recognize the Arduino board as a generic COM port. The power LEDs onboard the Arduino should light up.

Step 4: Time to find out what port number is assigned so that the Arduino and computer can properly communicate with one another. in the IDE select Tools > Ports > Select a port. If even after selecting the port the Arduino doesn't connect, try a different port.

Step 5: Open the Arduino IDE. Under Tools>Board, ensure that the correct type of Arduino board is selected.

Step 6: Under Tools> COM, ensure that the “port” is the one shown in the step above. Check that the programmer is set as “AVRISP AKII”

==== Possible bugs: ====
If you're having trouble with your Arduino, refer to this guide: [[Arduino troubleshooting|'''Arduino troubleshooting''']]

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== [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Arduino IDE and Tools|Arduino IDE and Tools]] ==

===Arduino IDE:===
The process of programming includes designing and executing code in an integrated development environment, otherwise known as an IDE. Many different IDEs exist and are adopted for different usages, and allow programs to edit, debug, and execute (or compile) their code. In order to program an Arduino (regardless of what kind of microcontroller is used), one must have the Arduino IDE downloaded (Refer to '''Connecting an Arduino''').

When beginning your journey in learning how to code, its important to get to know the integrated development environment, or IDE that the coder will use to edit and compile the written programs. The following figure guides the users on the basic options available on the IDE:

[[File:Arduino IDE2.jpg|930x930px]]

=== Internal Libraries ===

==== What is a library? ====
A library is a file that contains pre-written code that can be referred to in order to use certain sensors and functions. Often, in order to complete a task like connecting to a server to spinning a motor many lines of code must be written and executed. Libraries are bits of code that users can refer to in order to complete those tasks without having to type out each line of code, it simplifies the programming process and allows us to perform relatively complex tasks with ease.

In beginner topics we won’t be using complex or external libraries! But keep this in mind for the following ones as this will be necessary later on.

==== Built-in Libraries ====
Built-in libraries are ones that come preinstalled into the Arduino IDE, you don’t need to import the library into the IDE. An example of this type of library is the math.h library, which is used for most basic math operations.

''Where to find them?''

There are a few ways to look at what built-in libraries are available, you can do a quick search in different online Arduino forums, or the easiest way is to look at the library manager in the Arduino IDE. This window displays libraries that are already installed and you also have the ability to install new libraries that would would like.
As seen below, in the menu bar at the top of the window click on ''Tools > Manage Libraries...'' [[File:Library Dropdown.jpg|none|thumb|627x627px]]Inside the manager as seen below you are able to select the type of library you are looking for, for example, installed, etc.[[File:Manage libraries.png|thumb|alt=|none|783x783px]]

When wanting to use a library, one must declare it at the top of their code so that their IDE knows that that file is being referred to, the syntax is:
#include<math.h>

=== Serial Monitors ===
The serial monitor is a function in the Arduino IDE that allows you to interact with your Arduino. Through it you are able to send information and also receive feedback or the system output, this aids in debugging and interacting with the program.

The serial monitor can be accessed in two locations: the icon in the bar at the top of the IDE, as seen in the figure below.
[[File:Serial MOnitor 2.png|center|thumb|667x667px]]

And in the following drop down menu as shown below:
[[File:SML2.png|center|thumb|536x536px]]

A few features to note is the baud rate and auto scroll functionality. The baud rate must match the one dictated in the program, this value dictates that rate that the Arduino and IDE communicate with each other.

[[File:Tempsnip.png|center|thumb|808x808px]]When using the serial monitor it must be initialized in the code for a specific baud rate as follows:
Void Setup {

Serial.begin(9600); //this initializes the monitor at a baud rate of 9600 }

There are a few different ways to output values on to the serial monitor for example when wanting to output the value held by a variable the following syntax can be used:
Serial.print(variable_name):

Serial.println(variable_name); //for outputting each value on a new line

Alternatively, when wanting to output a string or phrase the following syntax can be used:
Serial.print("INSERT PHRASE");

Serial.println("INSERT PHRASE"); //for outputting each value on a new line

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==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Programming Syntax and Conceptualization|Introduction to Programming Syntax and Conceptualization]]==
As mentioned previously, and IDE is used to compile and execute the code utilized in a microcontroller. There are many different IDEs that can be used for various types of microcontroller and for each purpose there are more suitable boards that can be used. In order to program an Arduino, one must have the Arduino IDE downloaded (Refer to '''Connecting an Arduino'''). The Arduino IDE provides users with a programming editor as well as a way to easily upload and compile programs onto the Arduino board. Programs in the Arduino IDE are called sketches, and are normally saved with the .ino extension. The language used to program the Arduino board is based on the C++ language, which is a general use Object Oriented language. Like any common language, in order to start coding, one must be aware of the grammar rules and vocabulary that is used. An important word that will be often encountered is a “function”, which is a block of code that takes in an input, processes the input, then returns an output.

=== Blink program: An Example ===
The Arduino IDE provides creators with a plethora of written programs that are fully ready to run on an Arduino board. They are located in the Files>Examples folder. Among the most basic is the "Blink" program, which can be used to not only get to know the basic features in the software and the hardware, but are also a great way to test the connectivity between the Arduino board and the user's computer. This program is located in Files>Examples>01.Basics>Blink.

The following provides an overview of the different functions used in this program:
[[File:Blink program overview.jpg|center|frameless|800x800px]]
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 2: Overview of functions used in the Blink program
!Function
!Description
|-
|Setup()
|Performs any actions that are initially required to run the rest of the program, such as initializing any peripheral components and setting the communication frequency between the Arduino and the PC.
|-
|Loop()
|The loop function acts as the program's driver, it runs on a continuous loop and specifies the order of operation the microcontroller will perform. Execution starts at the top, goes through the contents of the loop and then starts executing from the top again. This procedure is repeated forever.
|-
|pinMode (pin number, INPUT or Output)
|Configures the pin to behave as either an INPUT or an OUTPUT.
|-
|digitalWrite (pin number, HIGH or LOW)
|Writes a HIGH or LOW value to a digital pin. If the pin has been configured as an OUTPUT, then the signal sent over (ie the voltage) will be set as 5 V (HIGH), or 0 V (LOW). For 3.3 V output boards, the high value will be set to 3.3 V, whereas the low is the same as the 5V board, which is 0V.
|-
|Delay (time in milliseconds)
|Pauses the program for the amount of time specified in the parameter.
|}

=== Initializing a Pin as an Input or Output ===
When using components you will often have to initialize the pin they are connected to as either an input or output! The syntax for this will vary depending on the component and what pin type it is connected to.

==== Analog Input/output ====
When trying to manipulate data from an analog pin, the following lines of code are used to read data from it:
int ''variable'' = analogRead(''insert pin number''); //here a variable is being defined to hold the value read from the pin
When you want to write data to the pin the following syntax is used:
int ''variable'' = analogWrite(''insert pin number''); //here a variable is being defined to hold the value read from the pin

==== Digital Input/output ====
When wanting to use a digital pin you will need to declare as either an input or output in the Void Setup () as follows:
pinMode(LED1, OUTPUT); //For example if you had a pin called LED1
When wanting to write a value to LED1 then you would use the following syntax:
digitalWrite(LED1, HIGH); //Here HIGH or LOW would indicate if you would like the led to turn on - for turning it on you set HIGH, and LOW otherwise.

====== Some other basic considerations: ======
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 3: Overview of some basic elements of programming
!
!Symbol
!Description
|-
|Brackets
|{....}
|Starts and ends a function or is used to group different statements together
|-
|Comment bars
|/* ….*/ or //
|Allows coders to add comments to their code to make it more readable to other humans. Important to note that all comments do not get executed by the program and therefore do not alter the program!
|-
|Semicolon
|...;
|This character ends a program statement and lets the compiler know ‘the end of the current line/statement’
|}
It is also important to be aware that the Arduino editor is case sensitive, meaning that the words “DOOR” and “Door” are not understood to be the same word by the compiler. Furthermore, to make writing and editing code more friendly, the Arduino IDE will colour code important functions, comments, etc. This will be seen later in this section.

As seen below, certain preexisting functions in the Arduino IDE will often times be a certain colour. This is a good indicator of if whether or not you have written the function correctly.
[[File:IDEAFS.png|center|thumb|587x587px|Cited from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Arduino_IDE_-_Blink.png]]

=== Pseudocode and Flowcharts ===
As the complexity of your projects progress keeping track of all the different functions will likely become increasingly more difficult. Some tools that are often used to help create a layout of what the purpose of the programs is include pseudocode and flowchart. They both aid in visualizing and outlining the logic behind your code, the difference between the two is that flowcharts are more visually based and in contrast pseudocode is a typed-up outline of the code [refer to examples below].
[[File:PseudoCode Example.png|none|frame|Example Pseudocode. (Source: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Simple-inheritance-mechanism-pseudocode_fig3_7305018)]]
[[File:Flowchart Example.png|none|frame|Flowchart Example (Source: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG6ePePp5vvYVEjRanyndt7ZSqTzillom)]]

This allows the designer (you) to be able to work through the logic behind the code before creating it, allowing for a far smoother design process.

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== [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Variables and Conditional Statements|Introduction to Variables and Conditional Statements]] ==

===Variables===
Variables allow information in programmers to be stored or changed within the code. In order to create a variable within your program, it must be declared. To declare a variable, the coder has to write the type of variable to be declared first. Different types exist, most commonly used are:
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 4: Summary of commonly used variable types
!Type
!Syntax
|-
|Integers
|int
|-
|non-integers (rational and non-rational)
|double or float
|-
|characters
|char
|}
After declaring the variable type, the coder must then name the variable. The variable name should clearly reflect the purpose of the value, so that the coder and the reader can easily identify which value is associated with what variable. Additionally, variables cannot have spaces embedded within the name. For example, "My deposit" is not a valid variable name, but "MyDeposit" is. Note that capitalization can be useful for readability. Furthermore, variables should not start with digits, or with an underscore "_".

After naming the variable, the coder can choose to initialize the variable, which is choosing an initial value to be associated with the variable (which can change throughout the program). Be careful to stay consistent with the type of the variable. For example, you cannot initialize the variable int Age with a value of "k", as "k" is not an integer. The code segments below illustrate the process of initialization:
int a;// not initialized, which is ok!

double b=1.23;/* Note that the 1.23 value matches with the “double” type which is a rational number*/

char MyVariable = “h”; //note the semicolons!
The following will produce an error, which will disable the compiler from compiling your code:
char YourVariable= 1.23; // 1.23 is not a character!
Variables can be classified into either global or local variables. The main difference is the scope at which they can be accessed. A global variable can be accessed by all functions that exist within a program, whereas a local variable can be accessed through only the function where it is declared. The example below illustrates this well [https://www.arduino.cc/reference/en/language/variables/variable-scope-qualifiers/scope/<nowiki>]:</nowiki>
/* There are two functions in this program: setup() and loop(), and three variables: "k", "i", "f".*/

int k; // any function will see this variable, thus called a global variable.

void setup() {

// ... }

void loop() {

int i; // "i" is only "visible" inside of "loop"

float f; } // "f" is only "visible" inside of "loop"

.....// some lines of code}
===Conditionals===
Conditional statements are programming operations that tells the computer to perform an action for a certain set of conditions. An "if" statement is the most common, and tells the computer to perform a set of actions only if the condition is fulfilled. The syntax is the following:
if (condition) {

/// a set of instructions }
Common alteration of the if statements are the "if...else" and "if... else if". The "if...else" conditionals first checks the "if" conditional, in the case that its true, the compiler will ignore the "else" set of instructions. In the case that the condition(s) declared in the "if" statement are not fulfilled, the "else" instructions will automatically run. The syntax for an "if...else" statement is:
if (condition){

///instructions;}

else {

///instructions that will ONLY run in the case the "if" conditions are not fulfilled }
In the case of the "if...else if" set of instructions, the program will only run if the conditions specified in the "if" or "else if" are true. The syntax is the following:
if (condition){

///instructions }

else if (condition) {

///instructions }

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==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Electronics and Circuitry|Introduction to Electronics and Circuitry]]==
===Introduction to Circuits===
A circuit is a pathway where electricity can flow through a closed path from the negative (cathode) to the positive (anode) end of a power source. Elements in a circuit can either supply or expend energy. Energy is measured in Joules (J). Suppliers of energy are called sources; they provide a voltage, or charge electrons with energy. The number of electrons flowing in a circuit is called a current, measured in Amperes (A). A common voltage source is a chemical battery, which is an example of a direct-current power source (DC). It provides electrons with a fixed amount of energy (i.e. a fixed voltage) through a chemical reaction within a battery. Resistance is a value that describes how easy for electrons to move in a material when voltage is applied. Resistors are devices that can be added to the circuit to impede current flow.

=== Ohm's Law ===
There are a few ways to calculate the required values for each component, however one of the basic ways of calculating them is '''Ohm's law'''.

The relationship that represents the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance is ohm’s law, represented by: '''V=IR'''. The power source in a circuit determines the voltage supplied and the current available. The connected components will draw current from the power source.

There are three arrangements of circuits, series, parallel, and combination.
[[File:Ohms law diagram.png|thumb|248x248px|Ohm's Law (Source: https://learn.digilentinc.com/Documents/331)]]

==== Series Circuits ====
In a series circuit, the amount of current flowing is the same at all points in the circuit, whereas the voltage supplied by the battery is equal to the voltage drop across each component. A series circuit has only one path for electricity to flow, so if any component fails in the circuit, all other components will also stop operating, as the circuit is now open.

==== Parallel Circuits ====
In a parallel circuit, the voltage is the same in all branches, whereas the current is different in each branch.

[[File:Series vs parallel resistance.png|center|thumb|786x786px|(Source: https://makeabilitylab.github.io/physcomp/electronics/series-parallel.html)]]

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=== Introduction to Electronic Components ===

==== Breadboard ====
A breadboard is used to prototype a temporary circuit. The user can build, test and analyze a circuit without any permanent connections. It is made up of terminal strips and power rails. The terminal strips are used to hold any number of components in place and make electrical connections in a horizontal row. The power rails are the long vertical strips and are used to facilitate power (+) and ground (-) connections by placing them all in one column.
[[File:BB-2.png|center|thumb|682x682px|Connections inside a breadboard (Source: https://dreyfuzz.github.io/hackinghardware/)]]
==== LED ====
A Light Emitting Diode, or LED, is a semiconductor device that lights up when an electric current passes through it. They come in many different colours and shapes, and are very versatile. LEDs are diodes, which means that current flows through the element in only one way, from the positive to the negative end. On an LED, the cathode end can be identified by either a flat edge on the body, or as the shorter leg. As such, the anode is the other end (the longer leg on the LED).
[[File:LED - 1.png|center|thumb|198x198px|(Source: https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/rowan07/make-a-simple-led-circuit-ce8308)]]

====Pushbutton====
A pushbutton is an electronic switch component that completes the circuit only when pressed. In an electric circuit, electricity needs to flow continuously through the circuit in order for all parts to function. The pushbutton interrupts this circuit and forms a gap, so that electricity doesn't flow to the other side of the pushbutton. When the pushbutton is pressed. a small spring is activated that is made of conducting material so that electricity flows through the spring to the other side of the pushbutton.
[[File:Pushb.png|center|thumb|(Source: https://www.sparkfun.com/products/9190)]]

====Resistor====
A resistor is an electrical component which creates electrical impedance, or resistance to current flow. The amount of resistance a resistor provides can be read from the bands of colour on the resistor, which are read left to right. For four bands resistors, the first and second bands represent digits, while the third band represents a multiplier to multiply the digits of the first and second band by. The fourth band is the tolerance, it represents how much the resistor may deviate from the value indicated by the bands. The value of the resistor can also be determined using the ohmic function of a multimeter.

Resistors are often used in series with components to reduce the amount of current flowing through a circuit, often to protect components rated for lower current amounts. Pull-up and pull-down resistors are used to bias an input on the Arduino to be either HIGH or LOW respectively. This needs to be done as the resting level of the input isn’t necessarily 0. This is especially useful when working with sensors that have an analog output.
[[File:Resistor 1.png|left|thumb|(Source: https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-resistor/)]]
[[File:Bands.png|none|thumb|453x453px|How to read a resistor. (Source: https://www.arrow.com/en/research-and-events/articles/resistor-color-code)]]

==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Sensors|Introduction to Sensors]]==
Sensors enable the microcontroller to sense the surrounding environment. Many sensors exist on the market, including but not limited to buttons, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, photoresistors, humidity and moisture, and many more. The output of the sensor (a voltage) changes based on the measured environment properties, and sends that signal over to the Arduino board.

Different sensors will use different voltage levels and different methods of communication with microcontrollers. It is always important to read their datasheet and make sure they are compatible with your system before continuing or design your system around the sensor specifications.

[[File:Sensors1.png|center|frame|(Source: https://www.electronicshub.org/different-types-sensors/)]]

== [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Online Simulators|Online Simulators]] ==
Tinkercad is an online platform that enables users to virtually model 3D designs and circuits. Its user friendly interface and functionality encourages students and hobbyists to investigate the functionality of the Arduino boards virtually, as well as start building their designs. To sign up, create an account on: https://www.tinkercad.com, or alternatively, login with google, facebook etc…

Once your account is created, the user can navigate to the “circuits” tab in the left-hand menu, and click on “ Create new circuit”. This opens a new tab, where the available circuit components can be viewed in the right-hand menu.

To start putting a circuit together, the user can drag the components from the library and place it in the “building zone”, noted above. In addition, note the “Code” button in the top bar; this button enables the users to program the Arduino to perform specific functions. To start the simulation, the “start simulation” is available in the top tab.

For more information refer to the following resources:

* [https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/circuits '''Tinkercad: Circuits''']
* [https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/codeblocks '''Tinkercad: Programming''']

Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner

2022-07-31T11:24:02Z

Akhan325: /* Tools */

== [[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/What is Soldering?|What is Soldering?]] ==
Soldering is a process often used when working with electronics. It consists of melting one metal to connect two or more metal pieces. This connection not only creates an electrical connection, but it also secures a component in place.

When soldering components, be sure to '''heat the component to be hot enough to melt the solder and not the solder itself''' - this allows for better adhesion between the component and solder, the goal is to ensure that the connection between the two is as secure as it can be. The iron is not meant to be used to melt solder on to it and then wipe the solder onto the component and board.

*

=== Types of Soldering ===

==== Through-hole-technology (THT) ====

* Through-hole-technology (THT) soldering means to solder components that have leads that will go through holes inside a protoboard or PCB.
[[File:Tht diagram.png|thumb|Cited from: https://www.makerspaces.com/how-to-solder/|alt=|none]]

==== Surface mount device (SMD) ====

* Surface mount (SMD) soldering is when you will solder a component to the surface of a PCB. This type of soldering is typically used for smaller components and chips.
[[File:SMD.png|none|thumb|366x366px|Cited from: https://mansfield-devine.com/speculatrix/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/SMD_soldering_part.jpg]]

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=== Safety When Soldering ===
* Melting solder will produce fumes and so you must always solder in well ventilated areas, this goes especially for any solder that contains lead since it can lead to respiratory irritations after extended exposure
* When Soldering be sure to wet the sponge being used in order to avoid burning it or ruining the tip of the iron
* Don’t leave the iron unsupervised and on
* Don’t touch the tip or neck of the iron
* Allow the solder and board to cool before handling
* Be sure to wait until the iron cools before storing it, in order to avoid burring or melting any thing else in its vicinity

== [[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/Equipment and Materials|Equipment and Materials]] ==

=== Types of boards ===
==== Breadboards ====
Breadboards are used to build temporary circuits, they allow you to plug wires into the board and prototype circuits. The holes in a breadboard are typically connected in 2 ways: the (+) bars running down the board are connected vertically and the (-) are connected in a similar way. Each horizontal row of 5 dots is connected together. The part in the middle of the board is where the connection breaks.
[[File:Bbd.png|none|thumb|679x679px|Cited from: https://learn.adafruit.com/breadboards-for-beginners?view=all]]
==== Protoboards ====
A protoboard (also known as a perfboard or stripboard or DOT PCB) is a PCB with pre-drilled holes that have square or circular copper pads. This board allows you to insert components into the holes to secure them and then the holes can be bridged together in order to connect them together and create a circuit. A protoboard typically has individual pads on the board and a stripboard will have many pads already connected together.
[[File:Perf.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/970x728/2670-00.jpg]]

==== PCBs ====
PCBs or Printed Circuit Boards are boards with connection pathways printed into the board. These boards are typically used in later stages of prototyping as there isn’t as much flexibility once the board is printed.
[[File:PCB.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.circuitbasics.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/How-to-Make-a-Custom-PCB-PCB-Final-Image.jpg]]

=== Tools ===
* Soldering Iron and stand
[[File:Soldering-stand.jpg|thumb|Cited from: https://www.makerspaces.com/how-to-solder/]]
This is the iron used to manipulate the solder onto the board or circuit. A stand is very helpful to hold the iron while it's not in use to avoid touching and burning anything around the iron. They usually come with a sponge or brass wool to clean the tip of the iron.
[[File:Iron.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.twinschip.com/image/cache/catalog/Products%20Twins%20Chip%20Store%202020/Electronic%20Tools/Soldering%20Iron%2060W/SOLDERING%20IRON%2060W%201%20Twins%20Chip-550x550.jpg]]
* Exhaust

Melting the solder often results in the production of fumes, these fumes can be toxic with extended exposure and so, soldering if often done in areas with good ventilation or in the presence of an exhaust system/fan.
[[File:Fan.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71hrLapGHNL._SL1500_.jpg]]

* Soldering Mat

Soldering mats are great for protecting surfaces when soldering, it allows you to avoid burning the tables and damaging them. Furthermore, due to the material of most soldering mats they are also anti static and aid in component protection!
[[File:Soldering mat.png|left|thumb|Cited from: https://artistryinglass.on.ca/soldering-mat-by-hakko.html]]

* Solder

The material used to create joints is called solder, this is often sold in rolls of wire, there are different forms of solder that can vary in dimension. Always be sure to use lead free solder as the alternative is toxic. When purchasing solder for circuits, ensure that it isn’t plumbing solder.
[[File:Solder.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.circuitspecialists.com/content/105918/4900-454g.jpg]]
* Flux

Flux is a material used to aid in soldering, this chemical removes the oxides on the surfaces of the metals being soldered and allows the solder to flow more uniformly on the joint and components.
[[File:Flux.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71xcL1o3zwL._AC_SY355_.jpg]]
* Tip tinner

This chemical aids in cleaning the tip of the soldering iron when it is blackened or very oxidized and helps to solder with far greater ease. This material is great if the iron won’t clean with regular brass wool or sponge.
[[File:Tiptinner.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://d3dappj20mot0o.cloudfront.net/userfiles/images/products/rrlotion-41192_tip-t_dv_webxl.jpg]]
* Tweezers and helping hands

Often with smaller components and in the presence of a more complicated circuit, using additional equipment like helping hands or tweezers can help the process. These essentially aid in manipulating the components and keeping them in a specific position.
[[File:Hh.png|thumb|Cited from: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/616R9Dx2ejL.jpg|alt=]]
[[File:Tweezer.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/970x728/422-03.jpg]]
* Wire Strippers[[File:AWG size chart.png|thumb|Cited from: https://www.digikey.ca/en/resources/conversion-calculators/conversion-calculator-wire-size]]
Wire strippers are used to expose the internal wire and remove the plastic insulation to allow you to create connections between different wires. They are rated for different diameters (or gauges) of wire which is indicated on the tool itself. The American Wire Gauge (AWG) is a standardized way of specifying the size of a wire. Digikey has a wire size conversion calculator for example: https://www.digikey.ca/en/resources/conversion-calculators/conversion-calculator-wire-size
[[File:Ws.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.elecrow.com/pub/media/catalog/product/cache/f8158826193ba5faa8b862a9bd1eb9e9/1/4/14426251290_1.jpg]]

* Flush Cutter
Flush Cutters are great for getting a close and neat cut to the soldered joint!
[[File:Flush cutters.png|left|thumb|Cited from: https://www.homedepot.ca/product/klein-tools-flush-cutter-lightweight-5-inch/1001331556]]

* Brass Wool and wet sponge

A brass wool can be use to help clean oxidization off of the soldering iron - this aids in adhesion between the soldering iron and the solder. A wet sponge can be used to help clean the iron while soldering. Wet paper towel can also be used.
[[File:Wsp.png|thumb|Cited from: http://electropit.com/index.php/2016/06/11/how-do-you-keep-it-nice-and-shiny/|alt=]]
[[File:Bw.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://eleshop.eu/brass-wool-for-cleaning-a-soldering-tip.html]]
=== Tool Maintenance ===
*''Cleaning the iron tip''
Either by using a wet sponge or brass wool clean the iron tip regularly in order to remove old solder and oxidization.
* ''Tin the tip when you are using the iron''
Add a small amount of solder to the iron to keep it from oxidizing when you place it in the holder. You can then wipe it off with the sponge/wool before starting to solder.
*''Select the correct temperature''
** 700F (370C) for through hole components and wires
** 600F (315C) for surface mount components
Higher temperatures can damage the iron and cause it to burn and oxidize faster. It is good practice to use the lowest temperature possible which will still melt the solder. As the tip gets more oxidized a higher temperature will be needed to use it efficiently.
*''Do not:''
# Do not leave the iron on. Leaving the iron can cause the tip to burn and will ruin in the iron over time.
# Do not file the tip. The tips have a protective coating the will get ruined.
# Don’t touch the mat or any plastics with the iron. A thin plastic film will form on the iron which will inhibit soldering, this includes heat shrink tubing.

<youtube>IzqeKR0l4PE?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>

==[[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/How to Solder|How to Solder]]==

=== Set up ===
To begin soldering gather all of the equipment and components necessary. And begin by determining which connection needs to be made and how you plan on making it. Next we will set up the Iron and station. Ensure you have a working soldering iron and stand, brass wool/wet sponge, solder, ventilation, and (optional) flux and tip tinner. Turn on the iron and select the appropriate temperature for the iron:

* 700F (370C) for through hole components and wires
* 600F (315C) for surface mount components
=== Soldering Wires ===
[[File:Wss.png|thumb|528x528px|Cited from: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-strip-wire/|alt=]]Soldering two wires is the best way to practice soldering at the very beginning. There are two types of wire, either stranded or solid core. Both have a metal core wrapped in a plastic covering. To see the metal, you need to expose the core by removing the plastic. This can be done using wire strippers or wire cutters. When using wire strippers - place the wire in the slot written to be for the wire gauge you’re using and gently press around the tubing. You want to be sure to avoid cutting through the core of the wire since the goal is to expose the core. Once the perimeter of the covering has been cut through you will then remove it by slipping it off the core as seen below.

''How does the wire stripper work?''

The wire stripper works by having blades that are circular in shape and of different diameters that correspond to different wire gauges. The wire cutter is designed to cut through the sheath on a wire whilst not cutting through its core.

#Grab a few wires, strip 1 cm off each end.
#Twist the two wires together with pliers or your fingers.
#Hold the soldering iron like a pen. Heat the two wires for 1-2 seconds and then flow solder on the connection. The goal is to heat the connection not the solder. Once you see the solder flow evenly throughout the connection, remove the solder and soldering iron.
##Long exposure of the iron to the PCB and other electronic components will lead to them burning so make sure you don't leave the iron there for too long.
#Allow the connection to cool, this usually takes 20-30 seconds. During this time, avoid moving the wires.
<youtube>YF0bqfVcmt4?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>
<youtube>VmE5KXr1juk?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>
<youtube>Z8lLFY7iBW8?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>

=== Soldering THT ===

#Place the lead (metal stick coming from component) or wire through the hole in the protoboard or PCB. Bend the leads slightly to the outside so the component doesn't fall through.
#Holding the soldering iron like a pen, heat the copper pad and lead with the soldering iron until the solder begins to flow and forms a strong connection. Remove solder, and then the soldering iron. This process should take only a few seconds.
##Long exposure of the iron to the PCB and other electronic components will lead to them burning so make sure you don't leave the iron there for too long.
#Allow for the connection to cool.
#Snip off the excess lead as close as possible to the board with wire cutters or flush cutters.

When soldering be sure that you don't use too much or too little solder - as seen below, ideally the joint should have a cone shape to it.
[[File:Sj.png|center|thumb|539x539px|Cited from: https://www.reddit.com/r/consolerepair/comments/ie72ml/quick_soldering_guide_by_adafruit_make_sure_all/]]

<youtube>xEJUOodcHaI?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>
<youtube>9LsAjjxb6fY?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>

== [[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/Soldering Considerations|Soldering Considerations]] ==

=== Polarity ===
When soldering different components be sure to consider their polarity! Often times certain components will only work when connected a certain way, and example of such a component is an LED. LEDs have a positive and negative end and the component will only work when connected in a certain manner.
[[File:LED Polarity.png|center|thumb|Cited From: https://www.davidhaillant.com/how-to-determine-through-hole-led-polarity/]]

=== Heat Sensitivity ===
Due to various reasons such as material or size, certain components are only able to handle certain levels of heat when being soldered. If exposed to too much heat for too long, they are likely to burn out and become unusable.
[[File:Transistor.png|center|thumb|Cited from:https://www.build-electronic-circuits.com/how-transistors-work/]]

=== Static Electricity ===
Certain components are incredibly sensitive to static electricity and thus require specific equipment when handling them. There are 4 types of ESD equipment used to aid in grounding you to avoid damaging the equipment.

There are gloves, mats, a wrist strap, and a bag, learn more about ESD Equipment '''[https://www.antistat.com/blog/2017-11/esd-equipment-that-improves-safety-workplace-protection/#:~:text=In%20a%20more%20precise%20light,manufacturing%20facilities%20with%20computer%20parts. here]'''
[[File:ESD.png|center|thumb|Cited from: https://www.tme.eu/en/news/library-articles/page/44771/esd-personal-protective-equipment/]]

File:Soldering mat.png

2022-07-31T11:23:25Z

Akhan325:

ref: https://artistryinglass.on.ca/soldering-mat-by-hakko.html

File:Flush cutters.png

2022-07-31T11:15:12Z

Akhan325:

ref: https://www.homedepot.ca/product/klein-tools-flush-cutter-lightweight-5-inch/1001331556

Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/Soldering Considerations

2022-07-28T23:34:23Z

Akhan325: Created page with "{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner|Soldering Considerations}}"

{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner|[[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/Soldering Considerations|Soldering Considerations]]}}

Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/How to Solder

2022-07-28T23:33:55Z

Akhan325: Created page with "{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner|How to Solder}}"

{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner|[[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/How to Solder|How to Solder]]}}

Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner

2022-07-28T23:33:22Z

Akhan325: /* How to Solder */

== [[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/What is Soldering?|What is Soldering?]] ==
Soldering is a process often used when working with electronics. It consists of melting one metal to connect two or more metal pieces. This connection not only creates an electrical connection, but it also secures a component in place.

When soldering components, be sure to '''heat the component to be hot enough to melt the solder and not the solder itself''' - this allows for better adhesion between the component and solder, the goal is to ensure that the connection between the two is as secure as it can be. The iron is not meant to be used to melt solder on to it and then wipe the solder onto the component and board.

*

=== Types of Soldering ===

==== Through-hole-technology (THT) ====

* Through-hole-technology (THT) soldering means to solder components that have leads that will go through holes inside a protoboard or PCB.
[[File:Tht diagram.png|thumb|Cited from: https://www.makerspaces.com/how-to-solder/|alt=|none]]

==== Surface mount device (SMD) ====

* Surface mount (SMD) soldering is when you will solder a component to the surface of a PCB. This type of soldering is typically used for smaller components and chips.
[[File:SMD.png|none|thumb|366x366px|Cited from: https://mansfield-devine.com/speculatrix/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/SMD_soldering_part.jpg]]

<youtube>AI92e9TuCEY?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>
<youtube>ZfIHc64n2wU?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>

=== Safety When Soldering ===
* Melting solder will produce fumes and so you must always solder in well ventilated areas, this goes especially for any solder that contains lead since it can lead to respiratory irritations after extended exposure
* When Soldering be sure to wet the sponge being used in order to avoid burning it or ruining the tip of the iron
* Don’t leave the iron unsupervised and on
* Don’t touch the tip or neck of the iron
* Allow the solder and board to cool before handling
* Be sure to wait until the iron cools before storing it, in order to avoid burring or melting any thing else in its vicinity

== [[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/Equipment and Materials|Equipment and Materials]] ==

=== Types of boards ===
==== Breadboards ====
Breadboards are used to build temporary circuits, they allow you to plug wires into the board and prototype circuits. The holes in a breadboard are typically connected in 2 ways: the (+) bars running down the board are connected vertically and the (-) are connected in a similar way. Each horizontal row of 5 dots is connected together. The part in the middle of the board is where the connection breaks.
[[File:Bbd.png|none|thumb|679x679px|Cited from: https://learn.adafruit.com/breadboards-for-beginners?view=all]]
==== Protoboards ====
A protoboard (also known as a perfboard or stripboard or DOT PCB) is a PCB with pre-drilled holes that have square or circular copper pads. This board allows you to insert components into the holes to secure them and then the holes can be bridged together in order to connect them together and create a circuit. A protoboard typically has individual pads on the board and a stripboard will have many pads already connected together.
[[File:Perf.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/970x728/2670-00.jpg]]

==== PCBs ====
PCBs or Printed Circuit Boards are boards with connection pathways printed into the board. These boards are typically used in later stages of prototyping as there isn’t as much flexibility once the board is printed.
[[File:PCB.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.circuitbasics.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/How-to-Make-a-Custom-PCB-PCB-Final-Image.jpg]]

=== Tools ===
* Soldering Iron and stand
[[File:Soldering-stand.jpg|thumb|Cited from: https://www.makerspaces.com/how-to-solder/]]
This is the iron used to manipulate the solder onto the board or circuit. A stand is very helpful to hold the iron while it's not in use to avoid touching and burning anything around the iron. They usually come with a sponge or brass wool to clean the tip of the iron.
[[File:Iron.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.twinschip.com/image/cache/catalog/Products%20Twins%20Chip%20Store%202020/Electronic%20Tools/Soldering%20Iron%2060W/SOLDERING%20IRON%2060W%201%20Twins%20Chip-550x550.jpg]]
* Exhaust

Melting the solder often results in the production of fumes, these fumes can be toxic with extended exposure and so, soldering if often done in areas with good ventilation or in the presence of an exhaust system/fan.
[[File:Fan.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71hrLapGHNL._SL1500_.jpg]]

* Solder

The material used to create joints is called solder, this is often sold in rolls of wire, there are different forms of solder that can vary in dimension. Always be sure to use lead free solder as the alternative is toxic. When purchasing solder for circuits, ensure that it isn’t plumbing solder.
[[File:Solder.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.circuitspecialists.com/content/105918/4900-454g.jpg]]
* Flux

Flux is a material used to aid in soldering, this chemical removes the oxides on the surfaces of the metals being soldered and allows the solder to flow more uniformly on the joint and components.
[[File:Flux.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71xcL1o3zwL._AC_SY355_.jpg]]
* Tip tinner

This chemical aids in cleaning the tip of the soldering iron when it is blackened or very oxidized and helps to solder with far greater ease. This material is great if the iron won’t clean with regular brass wool or sponge.
[[File:Tiptinner.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://d3dappj20mot0o.cloudfront.net/userfiles/images/products/rrlotion-41192_tip-t_dv_webxl.jpg]]
* Tweezers and helping hands

Often with smaller components and in the presence of a more complicated circuit, using additional equipment like helping hands or tweezers can help the process. These essentially aid in manipulating the components and keeping them in a specific position.
[[File:Hh.png|thumb|Cited from: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/616R9Dx2ejL.jpg|alt=]]
[[File:Tweezer.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/970x728/422-03.jpg]]
* Wire Strippers[[File:AWG size chart.png|thumb|Cited from: https://www.digikey.ca/en/resources/conversion-calculators/conversion-calculator-wire-size]]
Wire strippers are used to expose the internal wire and remove the plastic insulation to allow you to create connections between different wires. They are rated for different diameters (or gauges) of wire which is indicated on the tool itself. The American Wire Gauge (AWG) is a standardized way of specifying the size of a wire. Digikey has a wire size conversion calculator for example: https://www.digikey.ca/en/resources/conversion-calculators/conversion-calculator-wire-size
[[File:Ws.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.elecrow.com/pub/media/catalog/product/cache/f8158826193ba5faa8b862a9bd1eb9e9/1/4/14426251290_1.jpg]]

* Brass Wool and wet sponge

A brass wool can be use to help clean oxidization off of the soldering iron - this aids in adhesion between the soldering iron and the solder. A wet sponge can be used to help clean the iron while soldering. Wet paper towel can also be used.
[[File:Wsp.png|thumb|Cited from: http://electropit.com/index.php/2016/06/11/how-do-you-keep-it-nice-and-shiny/|alt=]]
[[File:Bw.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://eleshop.eu/brass-wool-for-cleaning-a-soldering-tip.html]]
=== Tool Maintenance ===
*''Cleaning the iron tip''
Either by using a wet sponge or brass wool clean the iron tip regularly in order to remove old solder and oxidization.
* ''Tin the tip when you are using the iron''
Add a small amount of solder to the iron to keep it from oxidizing when you place it in the holder. You can then wipe it off with the sponge/wool before starting to solder.
*''Select the correct temperature''
** 700F (370C) for through hole components and wires
** 600F (315C) for surface mount components
Higher temperatures can damage the iron and cause it to burn and oxidize faster. It is good practice to use the lowest temperature possible which will still melt the solder. As the tip gets more oxidized a higher temperature will be needed to use it efficiently.
*''Do not:''
# Do not leave the iron on. Leaving the iron can cause the tip to burn and will ruin in the iron over time.
# Do not file the tip. The tips have a protective coating the will get ruined.
# Don’t touch the mat or any plastics with the iron. A thin plastic film will form on the iron which will inhibit soldering, this includes heat shrink tubing.

<youtube>IzqeKR0l4PE?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>

==[[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/How to Solder|How to Solder]]==

=== Set up ===
To begin soldering gather all of the equipment and components necessary. And begin by determining which connection needs to be made and how you plan on making it. Next we will set up the Iron and station. Ensure you have a working soldering iron and stand, brass wool/wet sponge, solder, ventilation, and (optional) flux and tip tinner. Turn on the iron and select the appropriate temperature for the iron:

* 700F (370C) for through hole components and wires
* 600F (315C) for surface mount components
=== Soldering Wires ===
[[File:Wss.png|thumb|528x528px|Cited from: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-strip-wire/|alt=]]Soldering two wires is the best way to practice soldering at the very beginning. There are two types of wire, either stranded or solid core. Both have a metal core wrapped in a plastic covering. To see the metal, you need to expose the core by removing the plastic. This can be done using wire strippers or wire cutters. When using wire strippers - place the wire in the slot written to be for the wire gauge you’re using and gently press around the tubing. You want to be sure to avoid cutting through the core of the wire since the goal is to expose the core. Once the perimeter of the covering has been cut through you will then remove it by slipping it off the core as seen below.

''How does the wire stripper work?''

The wire stripper works by having blades that are circular in shape and of different diameters that correspond to different wire gauges. The wire cutter is designed to cut through the sheath on a wire whilst not cutting through its core.

#Grab a few wires, strip 1 cm off each end.
#Twist the two wires together with pliers or your fingers.
#Hold the soldering iron like a pen. Heat the two wires for 1-2 seconds and then flow solder on the connection. The goal is to heat the connection not the solder. Once you see the solder flow evenly throughout the connection, remove the solder and soldering iron.
##Long exposure of the iron to the PCB and other electronic components will lead to them burning so make sure you don't leave the iron there for too long.
#Allow the connection to cool, this usually takes 20-30 seconds. During this time, avoid moving the wires.
<youtube>YF0bqfVcmt4?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>
<youtube>VmE5KXr1juk?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>
<youtube>Z8lLFY7iBW8?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>

=== Soldering THT ===

#Place the lead (metal stick coming from component) or wire through the hole in the protoboard or PCB. Bend the leads slightly to the outside so the component doesn't fall through.
#Holding the soldering iron like a pen, heat the copper pad and lead with the soldering iron until the solder begins to flow and forms a strong connection. Remove solder, and then the soldering iron. This process should take only a few seconds.
##Long exposure of the iron to the PCB and other electronic components will lead to them burning so make sure you don't leave the iron there for too long.
#Allow for the connection to cool.
#Snip off the excess lead as close as possible to the board with wire cutters or flush cutters.

When soldering be sure that you don't use too much or too little solder - as seen below, ideally the joint should have a cone shape to it.
[[File:Sj.png|center|thumb|539x539px|Cited from: https://www.reddit.com/r/consolerepair/comments/ie72ml/quick_soldering_guide_by_adafruit_make_sure_all/]]

<youtube>xEJUOodcHaI?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>
<youtube>9LsAjjxb6fY?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>

== [[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/Soldering Considerations|Soldering Considerations]] ==

=== Polarity ===
When soldering different components be sure to consider their polarity! Often times certain components will only work when connected a certain way, and example of such a component is an LED. LEDs have a positive and negative end and the component will only work when connected in a certain manner.
[[File:LED Polarity.png|center|thumb|Cited From: https://www.davidhaillant.com/how-to-determine-through-hole-led-polarity/]]

=== Heat Sensitivity ===
Due to various reasons such as material or size, certain components are only able to handle certain levels of heat when being soldered. If exposed to too much heat for too long, they are likely to burn out and become unusable.
[[File:Transistor.png|center|thumb|Cited from:https://www.build-electronic-circuits.com/how-transistors-work/]]

=== Static Electricity ===
Certain components are incredibly sensitive to static electricity and thus require specific equipment when handling them. There are 4 types of ESD equipment used to aid in grounding you to avoid damaging the equipment.

There are gloves, mats, a wrist strap, and a bag, learn more about ESD Equipment '''[https://www.antistat.com/blog/2017-11/esd-equipment-that-improves-safety-workplace-protection/#:~:text=In%20a%20more%20precise%20light,manufacturing%20facilities%20with%20computer%20parts. here]'''
[[File:ESD.png|center|thumb|Cited from: https://www.tme.eu/en/news/library-articles/page/44771/esd-personal-protective-equipment/]]

Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/Equipment and Materials

2022-07-28T23:31:59Z

Akhan325: Created page with "{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner|Equipment and Materials}}"

{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner|[[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/Equipment and Materials|Equipment and Materials]]}}

Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/What is Soldering?

2022-07-28T23:31:08Z

Akhan325:

{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner|[[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/What is Soldering?|What is Soldering?]]}}

Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/What is Soldering?

2022-07-28T23:30:40Z

Akhan325: Created page with "{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner|What is Soldering?}}"

{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner|[[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/What is Soldering?|What is Soldering?]]}}

Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner

2022-07-28T23:30:00Z

Akhan325:

== [[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/What is Soldering?|What is Soldering?]] ==
Soldering is a process often used when working with electronics. It consists of melting one metal to connect two or more metal pieces. This connection not only creates an electrical connection, but it also secures a component in place.

When soldering components, be sure to '''heat the component to be hot enough to melt the solder and not the solder itself''' - this allows for better adhesion between the component and solder, the goal is to ensure that the connection between the two is as secure as it can be. The iron is not meant to be used to melt solder on to it and then wipe the solder onto the component and board.

*

=== Types of Soldering ===

==== Through-hole-technology (THT) ====

* Through-hole-technology (THT) soldering means to solder components that have leads that will go through holes inside a protoboard or PCB.
[[File:Tht diagram.png|thumb|Cited from: https://www.makerspaces.com/how-to-solder/|alt=|none]]

==== Surface mount device (SMD) ====

* Surface mount (SMD) soldering is when you will solder a component to the surface of a PCB. This type of soldering is typically used for smaller components and chips.
[[File:SMD.png|none|thumb|366x366px|Cited from: https://mansfield-devine.com/speculatrix/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/SMD_soldering_part.jpg]]

<youtube>AI92e9TuCEY?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>
<youtube>ZfIHc64n2wU?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>

=== Safety When Soldering ===
* Melting solder will produce fumes and so you must always solder in well ventilated areas, this goes especially for any solder that contains lead since it can lead to respiratory irritations after extended exposure
* When Soldering be sure to wet the sponge being used in order to avoid burning it or ruining the tip of the iron
* Don’t leave the iron unsupervised and on
* Don’t touch the tip or neck of the iron
* Allow the solder and board to cool before handling
* Be sure to wait until the iron cools before storing it, in order to avoid burring or melting any thing else in its vicinity

== [[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/Equipment and Materials|Equipment and Materials]] ==

=== Types of boards ===
==== Breadboards ====
Breadboards are used to build temporary circuits, they allow you to plug wires into the board and prototype circuits. The holes in a breadboard are typically connected in 2 ways: the (+) bars running down the board are connected vertically and the (-) are connected in a similar way. Each horizontal row of 5 dots is connected together. The part in the middle of the board is where the connection breaks.
[[File:Bbd.png|none|thumb|679x679px|Cited from: https://learn.adafruit.com/breadboards-for-beginners?view=all]]
==== Protoboards ====
A protoboard (also known as a perfboard or stripboard or DOT PCB) is a PCB with pre-drilled holes that have square or circular copper pads. This board allows you to insert components into the holes to secure them and then the holes can be bridged together in order to connect them together and create a circuit. A protoboard typically has individual pads on the board and a stripboard will have many pads already connected together.
[[File:Perf.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/970x728/2670-00.jpg]]

==== PCBs ====
PCBs or Printed Circuit Boards are boards with connection pathways printed into the board. These boards are typically used in later stages of prototyping as there isn’t as much flexibility once the board is printed.
[[File:PCB.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.circuitbasics.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/How-to-Make-a-Custom-PCB-PCB-Final-Image.jpg]]

=== Tools ===
* Soldering Iron and stand
[[File:Soldering-stand.jpg|thumb|Cited from: https://www.makerspaces.com/how-to-solder/]]
This is the iron used to manipulate the solder onto the board or circuit. A stand is very helpful to hold the iron while it's not in use to avoid touching and burning anything around the iron. They usually come with a sponge or brass wool to clean the tip of the iron.
[[File:Iron.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.twinschip.com/image/cache/catalog/Products%20Twins%20Chip%20Store%202020/Electronic%20Tools/Soldering%20Iron%2060W/SOLDERING%20IRON%2060W%201%20Twins%20Chip-550x550.jpg]]
* Exhaust

Melting the solder often results in the production of fumes, these fumes can be toxic with extended exposure and so, soldering if often done in areas with good ventilation or in the presence of an exhaust system/fan.
[[File:Fan.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71hrLapGHNL._SL1500_.jpg]]

* Solder

The material used to create joints is called solder, this is often sold in rolls of wire, there are different forms of solder that can vary in dimension. Always be sure to use lead free solder as the alternative is toxic. When purchasing solder for circuits, ensure that it isn’t plumbing solder.
[[File:Solder.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.circuitspecialists.com/content/105918/4900-454g.jpg]]
* Flux

Flux is a material used to aid in soldering, this chemical removes the oxides on the surfaces of the metals being soldered and allows the solder to flow more uniformly on the joint and components.
[[File:Flux.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71xcL1o3zwL._AC_SY355_.jpg]]
* Tip tinner

This chemical aids in cleaning the tip of the soldering iron when it is blackened or very oxidized and helps to solder with far greater ease. This material is great if the iron won’t clean with regular brass wool or sponge.
[[File:Tiptinner.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://d3dappj20mot0o.cloudfront.net/userfiles/images/products/rrlotion-41192_tip-t_dv_webxl.jpg]]
* Tweezers and helping hands

Often with smaller components and in the presence of a more complicated circuit, using additional equipment like helping hands or tweezers can help the process. These essentially aid in manipulating the components and keeping them in a specific position.
[[File:Hh.png|thumb|Cited from: https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/616R9Dx2ejL.jpg|alt=]]
[[File:Tweezer.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/970x728/422-03.jpg]]
* Wire Strippers[[File:AWG size chart.png|thumb|Cited from: https://www.digikey.ca/en/resources/conversion-calculators/conversion-calculator-wire-size]]
Wire strippers are used to expose the internal wire and remove the plastic insulation to allow you to create connections between different wires. They are rated for different diameters (or gauges) of wire which is indicated on the tool itself. The American Wire Gauge (AWG) is a standardized way of specifying the size of a wire. Digikey has a wire size conversion calculator for example: https://www.digikey.ca/en/resources/conversion-calculators/conversion-calculator-wire-size
[[File:Ws.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://www.elecrow.com/pub/media/catalog/product/cache/f8158826193ba5faa8b862a9bd1eb9e9/1/4/14426251290_1.jpg]]

* Brass Wool and wet sponge

A brass wool can be use to help clean oxidization off of the soldering iron - this aids in adhesion between the soldering iron and the solder. A wet sponge can be used to help clean the iron while soldering. Wet paper towel can also be used.
[[File:Wsp.png|thumb|Cited from: http://electropit.com/index.php/2016/06/11/how-do-you-keep-it-nice-and-shiny/|alt=]]
[[File:Bw.png|none|thumb|Cited from: https://eleshop.eu/brass-wool-for-cleaning-a-soldering-tip.html]]
=== Tool Maintenance ===
*''Cleaning the iron tip''
Either by using a wet sponge or brass wool clean the iron tip regularly in order to remove old solder and oxidization.
* ''Tin the tip when you are using the iron''
Add a small amount of solder to the iron to keep it from oxidizing when you place it in the holder. You can then wipe it off with the sponge/wool before starting to solder.
*''Select the correct temperature''
** 700F (370C) for through hole components and wires
** 600F (315C) for surface mount components
Higher temperatures can damage the iron and cause it to burn and oxidize faster. It is good practice to use the lowest temperature possible which will still melt the solder. As the tip gets more oxidized a higher temperature will be needed to use it efficiently.
*''Do not:''
# Do not leave the iron on. Leaving the iron can cause the tip to burn and will ruin in the iron over time.
# Do not file the tip. The tips have a protective coating the will get ruined.
# Don’t touch the mat or any plastics with the iron. A thin plastic film will form on the iron which will inhibit soldering, this includes heat shrink tubing.

<youtube>IzqeKR0l4PE?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>

==[[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/|How to Solder]]==

=== Set up ===
To begin soldering gather all of the equipment and components necessary. And begin by determining which connection needs to be made and how you plan on making it. Next we will set up the Iron and station. Ensure you have a working soldering iron and stand, brass wool/wet sponge, solder, ventilation, and (optional) flux and tip tinner. Turn on the iron and select the appropriate temperature for the iron:

* 700F (370C) for through hole components and wires
* 600F (315C) for surface mount components
=== Soldering Wires ===
[[File:Wss.png|thumb|528x528px|Cited from: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-strip-wire/|alt=]]Soldering two wires is the best way to practice soldering at the very beginning. There are two types of wire, either stranded or solid core. Both have a metal core wrapped in a plastic covering. To see the metal, you need to expose the core by removing the plastic. This can be done using wire strippers or wire cutters. When using wire strippers - place the wire in the slot written to be for the wire gauge you’re using and gently press around the tubing. You want to be sure to avoid cutting through the core of the wire since the goal is to expose the core. Once the perimeter of the covering has been cut through you will then remove it by slipping it off the core as seen below.

''How does the wire stripper work?''

The wire stripper works by having blades that are circular in shape and of different diameters that correspond to different wire gauges. The wire cutter is designed to cut through the sheath on a wire whilst not cutting through its core.

#Grab a few wires, strip 1 cm off each end.
#Twist the two wires together with pliers or your fingers.
#Hold the soldering iron like a pen. Heat the two wires for 1-2 seconds and then flow solder on the connection. The goal is to heat the connection not the solder. Once you see the solder flow evenly throughout the connection, remove the solder and soldering iron.
##Long exposure of the iron to the PCB and other electronic components will lead to them burning so make sure you don't leave the iron there for too long.
#Allow the connection to cool, this usually takes 20-30 seconds. During this time, avoid moving the wires.
<youtube>YF0bqfVcmt4?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>
<youtube>VmE5KXr1juk?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>
<youtube>Z8lLFY7iBW8?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>

=== Soldering THT ===

#Place the lead (metal stick coming from component) or wire through the hole in the protoboard or PCB. Bend the leads slightly to the outside so the component doesn't fall through.
#Holding the soldering iron like a pen, heat the copper pad and lead with the soldering iron until the solder begins to flow and forms a strong connection. Remove solder, and then the soldering iron. This process should take only a few seconds.
##Long exposure of the iron to the PCB and other electronic components will lead to them burning so make sure you don't leave the iron there for too long.
#Allow for the connection to cool.
#Snip off the excess lead as close as possible to the board with wire cutters or flush cutters.

When soldering be sure that you don't use too much or too little solder - as seen below, ideally the joint should have a cone shape to it.
[[File:Sj.png|center|thumb|539x539px|Cited from: https://www.reddit.com/r/consolerepair/comments/ie72ml/quick_soldering_guide_by_adafruit_make_sure_all/]]

<youtube>xEJUOodcHaI?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>
<youtube>9LsAjjxb6fY?list=PLA-oTz8kRbrohnM_tMzgk4IfheRG29Fq5</youtube>

== [[Digital technologies/Soldering/Soldering- Beginner/Soldering Considerations|Soldering Considerations]] ==

=== Polarity ===
When soldering different components be sure to consider their polarity! Often times certain components will only work when connected a certain way, and example of such a component is an LED. LEDs have a positive and negative end and the component will only work when connected in a certain manner.
[[File:LED Polarity.png|center|thumb|Cited From: https://www.davidhaillant.com/how-to-determine-through-hole-led-polarity/]]

=== Heat Sensitivity ===
Due to various reasons such as material or size, certain components are only able to handle certain levels of heat when being soldered. If exposed to too much heat for too long, they are likely to burn out and become unusable.
[[File:Transistor.png|center|thumb|Cited from:https://www.build-electronic-circuits.com/how-transistors-work/]]

=== Static Electricity ===
Certain components are incredibly sensitive to static electricity and thus require specific equipment when handling them. There are 4 types of ESD equipment used to aid in grounding you to avoid damaging the equipment.

There are gloves, mats, a wrist strap, and a bag, learn more about ESD Equipment '''[https://www.antistat.com/blog/2017-11/esd-equipment-that-improves-safety-workplace-protection/#:~:text=In%20a%20more%20precise%20light,manufacturing%20facilities%20with%20computer%20parts. here]'''
[[File:ESD.png|center|thumb|Cited from: https://www.tme.eu/en/news/library-articles/page/44771/esd-personal-protective-equipment/]]

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Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner

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Akhan325:

==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Understanding Arduino Boards|Understanding Arduino Boards]]==

===What is a Micro-controller?===
A micro-controller is a compact integrated circuit that receives input from the environment, processes the input and can produce an output. It receives input from its I/O pins and processes the signals received using the CPU onboard the chip. Micro-controllers are usually embedded in larger systems and are utilized in many areas of life including vehicles, medical devices, home appliances, and more.

Arduino is an open source electronics platform that provides an easy and accessible way to make robotics projects. The boards are able to receive input signals from sensors and can produce outputs through I/O pins. Arduino boards are used by a diverse set of people, including students, hobbyists, engineers, researchers due to the simple layout and programmability of the Arduino boards.

An Arduino or microcontroller can be implemented in many ways:

* [https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/shubhamsuresh/how-to-make-a-bluetooth-controlled-rc-car-at-home-521212 A remote control car]
* [https://www.instructables.com/Arduino-Night-Light/ A night light]
* [https://www.instructables.com/Arduino-Kitchen-Scale/ A kitchen scale]
===Arduino board sections===
There are 5 important board sections that the user must have a solid understanding of to start utilizing the board's functions. These sections are outlined below:
[[File:Sections of an Arduino board.svg|alt=Figure 1: Arduino board sections|border|center|Figure 1: Arduino board sections]]
 
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 1: Description of the 5 main sections of an arduino board
!Section
!Description
|-
|USB connector
|The arduino can be powered through a type A/B USB connector from the user’s laptop/computer to the board. This port is also used to upload programs onto the board.
|-
|Power port
|The arduino board can be powered through an AC-DC adapter or a battery. The power jack of the board can be connected to a 2.1 mm center-positive plug.
|-
|Power pins
|To power external circuitry, 3 standard voltages (0 V or GND, 3.3V, 5V) are provided in the ‘Power Pins’ section of the board.
|-
|Digital pins
|Digital pins on the arduino board can be configured as an input or an output. When the pins are configured as an input, the pins will send a binary signal into the board, which enables the board to read the sensed logic voltage levels (ie. either 0/low or 1/high). If the digital pins are configured as an output, then the arduino will send a binary signal to the pin. There is a built-in LED pre-connected to digital pin 13. When the value of the pin is driven HIGH by the processor, the LED on the board is illuminated, when the pin is LOW, it's turned off. This can be used as a status indicator when programs are running.
|-
|Analog pins
|The analog pins allow the arduino board to receive or send an analog signal. These signals need to be converted into digital representations which can be used inside the software-executing portion of the Arduino processor (which only uses binary digital signals). Analog signal inputs can be accepted for conversion into digital via the Analog Pins header. The Analog to Digital (A/D or “A to D”) conversion is done inside the processor with specialized circuitry.
|}

===Analog VS Digital signals===
A signal is an electromagnetic or electric current that transfers information from one source to another. There are two main types of signals used in electronics: analog or digital signals.
[[File:AvD.jpg|thumb|181x181px|Analog vs. Digital signals [https://www.the-vital-edge.com/words-as-bridge/<nowiki>]</nowiki>]]

====Analog signals====
This is a time-varying and continuous type of signal that is often used to measure changes in light, sound, position, temperature, or other physical phenomena. When plotted in a voltage-time graph, the result is often a continuous and smooth curve.

====Digital signals====
A digital signal is a signal that represents information as a series of discrete binary values. Digital signals are used in all modern electronic applications, including communication and network devices. When plotted in a voltage-time graph, the signal is discrete, and ranges from 0 V to VCC (usually 1.8V, 3.3 V, or 5V).

=== Connecting to an Arduino ===
'''There are a few ways that you can ruin or burn your Arduino, refer to [[Five Easy ways to Kill an Arduino|this guide]] before starting for more information.'''

Step 1: Download the Arduino IDE from https://www.arduino.cc/en/software. Make sure to choose the version that is appropriate for your operating system.

Step 2: Connect the Arduino to your computer via an A/B type USB cable.

Step 3: Once the Arduino is connected, your computer will recognize the Arduino board as a generic COM port. The power LEDs onboard the Arduino should light up.

Step 4: Time to find out what port number is assigned so that the Arduino and computer can properly communicate with one another. in the IDE select Tools > Ports > Select a port. If even after selecting the port the Arduino doesn't connect, try a different port.

Step 5: Open the Arduino IDE. Under Tools>Board, ensure that the correct type of Arduino board is selected.

Step 6: Under Tools> COM, ensure that the “port” is the one shown in the step above. Check that the programmer is set as “AVRISP AKII”

==== Possible bugs: ====
If you're having trouble with your Arduino, refer to this guide: [[Arduino troubleshooting|'''Arduino troubleshooting''']]

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== [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Arduino IDE and Tools|Arduino IDE and Tools]] ==

===Arduino IDE:===
The process of programming includes designing and executing code in an integrated development environment, otherwise known as an IDE. Many different IDEs exist and are adopted for different usages, and allow programs to edit, debug, and execute (or compile) their code. In order to program an Arduino (regardless of what kind of microcontroller is used), one must have the Arduino IDE downloaded (Refer to '''Connecting an Arduino''').

When beginning your journey in learning how to code, its important to get to know the integrated development environment, or IDE that the coder will use to edit and compile the written programs. The following figure guides the users on the basic options available on the IDE:

[[File:Arduino IDE2.jpg|930x930px]]

=== Internal Libraries ===

==== What is a library? ====
A library is a file that contains pre-written code that can be referred to in order to use certain sensors and functions. Often, in order to complete a task like connecting to a server to spinning a motor many lines of code must be written and executed. Libraries are bits of code that users can refer to in order to complete those tasks without having to type out each line of code, it simplifies the programming process and allows us to perform relatively complex tasks with ease.

In beginner topics we won’t be using complex or external libraries! But keep this in mind for the following ones as this will be necessary later on.

==== Built-in Libraries ====
Built-in libraries are ones that come preinstalled into the Arduino IDE, you don’t need to import the library into the IDE. An example of this type of library is the math.h library, which is used for most basic math operations.

''Where to find them?''

There are a few ways to look at what built-in libraries are available, you can do a quick search in different online Arduino forums, or the easiest way is to look at the library manager in the Arduino IDE. This window displays libraries that are already installed and you also have the ability to install new libraries that would would like.
As seen below, in the menu bar at the top of the window click on ''Tools > Manage Libraries...'' [[File:Library Dropdown.jpg|none|thumb|627x627px]]Inside the manager as seen below you are able to select the type of library you are looking for, for example, installed, etc.[[File:Manage libraries.png|thumb|alt=|none|783x783px]]

When wanting to use a library, one must declare it at the top of their code so that their IDE knows that that file is being referred to, the syntax is:
#include<math.h>

=== Serial Monitors ===
The serial monitor is a function in the Arduino IDE that allows you to interact with your Arduino. Through it you are able to send information and also receive feedback or the system output, this aids in debugging and interacting with the program.

The serial monitor can be accessed in two locations: the icon in the bar at the top of the IDE, as seen in the figure below.
[[File:Serial MOnitor 2.png|center|thumb|667x667px]]

And in the following drop down menu as shown below:
[[File:SML2.png|center|thumb|536x536px]]

A few features to note is the baud rate and auto scroll functionality. The baud rate must match the one dictated in the program, this value dictates that rate that the Arduino and IDE communicate with each other.

[[File:Tempsnip.png|center|thumb|808x808px]]When using the serial monitor it must be initialized in the code for a specific baud rate as follows:
Void Setup {

Serial.begin(9600); //this initializes the monitor at a baud rate of 9600 }

There are a few different ways to output values on to the serial monitor for example when wanting to output the value held by a variable the following syntax can be used:
Serial.print(variable_name):

Serial.println(variable_name); //for outputting each value on a new line

Alternatively, when wanting to output a string or phrase the following syntax can be used:
Serial.print("INSERT PHRASE");

Serial.println("INSERT PHRASE"); //for outputting each value on a new line

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==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Programming Syntax and Conceptualization|Introduction to Programming Syntax and Conceptualization]]==
As mentioned previously, and IDE is used to compile and execute the code utilized in a microcontroller. There are many different IDEs that can be used for various types of microcontroller and for each purpose there are more suitable boards that can be used. In order to program an Arduino, one must have the Arduino IDE downloaded (Refer to '''Connecting an Arduino'''). The Arduino IDE provides users with a programming editor as well as a way to easily upload and compile programs onto the Arduino board. Programs in the Arduino IDE are called sketches, and are normally saved with the .ino extension. The language used to program the Arduino board is based on the C++ language, which is a general use Object Oriented language. Like any common language, in order to start coding, one must be aware of the grammar rules and vocabulary that is used. An important word that will be often encountered is a “function”, which is a block of code that takes in an input, processes the input, then returns an output.

=== Blink program: An Example ===
The Arduino IDE provides creators with a plethora of written programs that are fully ready to run on an Arduino board. They are located in the Files>Examples folder. Among the most basic is the "Blink" program, which can be used to not only get to know the basic features in the software and the hardware, but are also a great way to test the connectivity between the Arduino board and the user's computer. This program is located in Files>Examples>01.Basics>Blink.

The following provides an overview of the different functions used in this program:
[[File:Blink program overview.jpg|center|frameless|800x800px]]
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 2: Overview of functions used in the Blink program
!Function
!Description
|-
|Setup()
|Performs any actions that are initially required to run the rest of the program, such as initializing any peripheral components and setting the communication frequency between the Arduino and the PC.
|-
|Loop()
|The loop function acts as the program's driver, it runs on a continuous loop and specifies the order of operation the microcontroller will perform. Execution starts at the top, goes through the contents of the loop and then starts executing from the top again. This procedure is repeated forever.
|-
|pinMode (pin number, INPUT or Output)
|Configures the pin to behave as either an INPUT or an OUTPUT.
|-
|digitalWrite (pin number, HIGH or LOW)
|Writes a HIGH or LOW value to a digital pin. If the pin has been configured as an OUTPUT, then the signal sent over (ie the voltage) will be set as 5 V (HIGH), or 0 V (LOW). For 3.3 V output boards, the high value will be set to 3.3 V, whereas the low is the same as the 5V board, which is 0V.
|-
|Delay (time in milliseconds)
|Pauses the program for the amount of time specified in the parameter.
|}

=== Initializing a Pin as an Input or Output ===
When using components you will often have to initialize the pin they are connected to as either an input or output! The syntax for this will vary depending on the component and what pin type it is connected to.

==== Analog Input/output ====
When trying to manipulate data from an analog pin, the following lines of code are used to read data from it:
int ''variable'' = analogRead(''insert pin number''); //here a variable is being defined to hold the value read from the pin
When you want to write data to the pin the following syntax is used:
int ''variable'' = analogWrite(''insert pin number''); //here a variable is being defined to hold the value read from the pin

==== Digital Input/output ====
When wanting to use a digital pin you will need to declare as either an input or output in the Void Setup () as follows:
pinMode(LED1, OUTPUT); //For example if you had a pin called LED1
When wanting to write a value to LED1 then you would use the following syntax:
digitalWrite(LED1, HIGH); //Here HIGH or LOW would indicate if you would like the led to turn on - for turning it on you set HIGH, and LOW otherwise.

====== Some other basic considerations: ======
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 3: Overview of some basic elements of programming
!
!Symbol
!Description
|-
|Brackets
|{....}
|Starts and ends a function or is used to group different statements together
|-
|Comment bars
|/* ….*/ or //
|Allows coders to add comments to their code to make it more readable to other humans. Important to note that all comments do not get executed by the program and therefore do not alter the program!
|-
|Semicolon
|...;
|This character ends a program statement and lets the compiler know ‘the end of the current line/statement’
|}
It is also important to be aware that the Arduino editor is case sensitive, meaning that the words “DOOR” and “Door” are not understood to be the same word by the compiler. Furthermore, to make writing and editing code more friendly, the Arduino IDE will colour code important functions, comments, etc. This will be seen later in this section.

As seen below, certain preexisting functions in the Arduino IDE will often times be a certain colour. This is a good indicator of if whether or not you have written the function correctly.
[[File:IDEAFS.png|center|thumb|587x587px|Cited from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Arduino_IDE_-_Blink.png]]

=== Pseudocode and Flowcharts ===
As the complexity of your projects progress keeping track of all the different functions will likely become increasingly more difficult. Some tools that are often used to help create a layout of what the purpose of the programs is include pseudocode and flowchart. They both aid in visualizing and outlining the logic behind your code, the difference between the two is that flowcharts are more visually based and in contrast pseudocode is a typed-up outline of the code [refer to examples below].
[[File:PseudoCode Example.png|none|frame|Example Pseudocode. (Source: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Simple-inheritance-mechanism-pseudocode_fig3_7305018)]]
[[File:Flowchart Example.png|none|frame|Flowchart Example (Source: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG6ePePp5vvYVEjRanyndt7ZSqTzillom)]]

This allows the designer (you) to be able to work through the logic behind the code before creating it, allowing for a far smoother design process.

<youtube>rSz7549WSjY</youtube>

== [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Variables and Conditional Statements|Introduction to Variables and Conditional Statements]] ==

===Variables===
Variables allow information in programmers to be stored or changed within the code. In order to create a variable within your program, it must be declared. To declare a variable, the coder has to write the type of variable to be declared first. Different types exist, most commonly used are:
{| class="wikitable"
|+Table 4: Summary of commonly used variable types
!Type
!Syntax
|-
|Integers
|int
|-
|non-integers (rational and non-rational)
|double or float
|-
|characters
|char
|}
After declaring the variable type, the coder must then name the variable. The variable name should clearly reflect the purpose of the value, so that the coder and the reader can easily identify which value is associated with what variable. Additionally, variables cannot have spaces embedded within the name. For example, "My deposit" is not a valid variable name, but "MyDeposit" is. Note that capitalization can be useful for readability. Furthermore, variables should not start with digits, or with an underscore "_".

After naming the variable, the coder can choose to initialize the variable, which is choosing an initial value to be associated with the variable (which can change throughout the program). Be careful to stay consistent with the type of the variable. For example, you cannot initialize the variable int Age with a value of "k", as "k" is not an integer. The code segments below illustrate the process of initialization:
int a;// not initialized, which is ok!

double b=1.23;/* Note that the 1.23 value matches with the “double” type which is a rational number*/

char MyVariable = “h”; //note the semicolons!
The following will produce an error, which will disable the compiler from compiling your code:
char YourVariable= 1.23; // 1.23 is not a character!
Variables can be classified into either global or local variables. The main difference is the scope at which they can be accessed. A global variable can be accessed by all functions that exist within a program, whereas a local variable can be accessed through only the function where it is declared. The example below illustrates this well [https://www.arduino.cc/reference/en/language/variables/variable-scope-qualifiers/scope/<nowiki>]:</nowiki>
/* There are two functions in this program: setup() and loop(), and three variables: "k", "i", "f".*/

int k; // any function will see this variable, thus called a global variable.

void setup() {

// ... }

void loop() {

int i; // "i" is only "visible" inside of "loop"

float f; } // "f" is only "visible" inside of "loop"

.....// some lines of code}
===Conditionals===
Conditional statements are programming operations that tells the computer to perform an action for a certain set of conditions. An "if" statement is the most common, and tells the computer to perform a set of actions only if the condition is fulfilled. The syntax is the following:
if (condition) {

/// a set of instructions }
Common alteration of the if statements are the "if...else" and "if... else if". The "if...else" conditionals first checks the "if" conditional, in the case that its true, the compiler will ignore the "else" set of instructions. In the case that the condition(s) declared in the "if" statement are not fulfilled, the "else" instructions will automatically run. The syntax for an "if...else" statement is:
if (condition){

///instructions;}

else {

///instructions that will ONLY run in the case the "if" conditions are not fulfilled }
In the case of the "if...else if" set of instructions, the program will only run if the conditions specified in the "if" or "else if" are true. The syntax is the following:
if (condition){

///instructions }

else if (condition) {

///instructions }

<youtube>YktSocf2vSc</youtube>

==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Electronics and Circuitry|Introduction to Electronics and Circuitry]]==
===Introduction to Circuits===
A circuit is a pathway where electricity can flow through a closed path from the negative (cathode) to the positive (anode) end of a power source. Elements in a circuit can either supply or expend energy. Energy is measured in Joules (J). Suppliers of energy are called sources; they provide a voltage, or charge electrons with energy. The number of electrons flowing in a circuit is called a current, measured in Amperes (A). A common voltage source is a chemical battery, which is an example of a direct-current power source (DC). It provides electrons with a fixed amount of energy (i.e. a fixed voltage) through a chemical reaction within a battery. Resistance is a value that describes how easy for electrons to move in a material when voltage is applied. Resistors are devices that can be added to the circuit to impede current flow.

=== Ohm's Law ===
There are a few ways to calculate the required values for each component, however one of the basic ways of calculating them is '''Ohm's law'''.

The relationship that represents the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance is ohm’s law, represented by: '''V=IR'''. The power source in a circuit determines the voltage supplied and the current available. The connected components will draw current from the power source.

There are three arrangements of circuits, series, parallel, and combination.
[[File:Ohms law diagram.png|thumb|248x248px|Ohm's Law (Source: https://learn.digilentinc.com/Documents/331)]]

==== Series Circuits ====
In a series circuit, the amount of current flowing is the same at all points in the circuit, whereas the voltage supplied by the battery is equal to the voltage drop across each component. A series circuit has only one path for electricity to flow, so if any component fails in the circuit, all other components will also stop operating, as the circuit is now open.

==== Parallel Circuits ====
In a parallel circuit, the voltage is the same in all branches, whereas the current is different in each branch.

[[File:Series vs parallel resistance.png|center|thumb|786x786px|(Source: https://makeabilitylab.github.io/physcomp/electronics/series-parallel.html)]]

<youtube>F_vLWkkOETI</youtube>

=== Introduction to Electronic Components ===

==== Breadboard ====
A breadboard is used to prototype a temporary circuit. The user can build, test and analyze a circuit without any permanent connections. It is made up of terminal strips and power rails. The terminal strips are used to hold any number of components in place and make electrical connections in a horizontal row. The power rails are the long vertical strips and are used to facilitate power (+) and ground (-) connections by placing them all in one column.
[[File:BB-2.png|center|thumb|682x682px|Connections inside a breadboard (Source: https://dreyfuzz.github.io/hackinghardware/)]]
==== LED ====
A Light Emitting Diode, or LED, is a semiconductor device that lights up when an electric current passes through it. They come in many different colours and shapes, and are very versatile. LEDs are diodes, which means that current flows through the element in only one way, from the positive to the negative end. On an LED, the cathode end can be identified by either a flat edge on the body, or as the shorter leg. As such, the anode is the other end (the longer leg on the LED).
[[File:LED - 1.png|center|thumb|198x198px|(Source: https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/rowan07/make-a-simple-led-circuit-ce8308)]]

====Pushbutton====
A pushbutton is an electronic switch component that completes the circuit only when pressed. In an electric circuit, electricity needs to flow continuously through the circuit in order for all parts to function. The pushbutton interrupts this circuit and forms a gap, so that electricity doesn't flow to the other side of the pushbutton. When the pushbutton is pressed. a small spring is activated that is made of conducting material so that electricity flows through the spring to the other side of the pushbutton.
[[File:Pushb.png|center|thumb|(Source: https://www.sparkfun.com/products/9190)]]

====Resistor====
A resistor is an electrical component which creates electrical impedance, or resistance to current flow. The amount of resistance a resistor provides can be read from the bands of colour on the resistor, which are read left to right. For four bands resistors, the first and second bands represent digits, while the third band represents a multiplier to multiply the digits of the first and second band by. The fourth band is the tolerance, it represents how much the resistor may deviate from the value indicated by the bands. The value of the resistor can also be determined using the ohmic function of a multimeter.

Resistors are often used in series with components to reduce the amount of current flowing through a circuit, often to protect components rated for lower current amounts. Pull-up and pull-down resistors are used to bias an input on the Arduino to be either HIGH or LOW respectively. This needs to be done as the resting level of the input isn’t necessarily 0. This is especially useful when working with sensors that have an analog output.
[[File:Resistor 1.png|left|thumb|(Source: https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-resistor/)]]
[[File:Bands.png|none|thumb|453x453px|How to read a resistor. (Source: https://www.arrow.com/en/research-and-events/articles/resistor-color-code)]]

==[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Introduction to Sensors|Introduction to Sensors]]==
Sensors enable the microcontroller to sense the surrounding environment. Many sensors exist on the market, including but not limited to buttons, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, photoresistors, humidity and moisture, and many more. The output of the sensor (a voltage) changes based on the measured environment properties, and sends that signal over to the Arduino board.

Different sensors will use different voltage levels and different methods of communication with microcontrollers. It is always important to read their datasheet and make sure they are compatible with your system before continuing or design your system around the sensor specifications.

[[File:Sensors1.png|center|frame|(Source: https://www.electronicshub.org/different-types-sensors/)]]

== [[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Online Simulators|Online Simulators]] ==
Tinkercad is an online platform that enables users to virtually model 3D designs and circuits. Its user friendly interface and functionality encourages students and hobbyists to investigate the functionality of the Arduino boards virtually, as well as start building their designs. To sign up, create an account on: https://www.tinkercad.com, or alternatively, login with google, facebook etc…

Once your account is created, the user can navigate to the “circuits” tab in the left-hand menu, and click on “ Create new circuit”. This opens a new tab, where the available circuit components can be viewed in the right-hand menu.

To start putting a circuit together, the user can drag the components from the library and place it in the “building zone”, noted above. In addition, note the “Code” button in the top bar; this button enables the users to program the Arduino to perform specific functions. To start the simulation, the “start simulation” is available in the top tab.

For more information refer to the following resources:

* [https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/circuits '''Tinkercad: Circuits''']
* [https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/codeblocks '''Tinkercad: Programming''']

Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Arduino troubleshooting

2022-07-28T17:28:46Z

Akhan325: /* Libraries for Alternate Brand Arduino Boards */

=== Libraries for Alternate Brand Arduino Boards ===
When using an Arduino for the first time, you may encounter some issues. This page will outline some of the most often issues seen, however, for more detail a search of the error in google will allow you to gain a further understanding of the problem at hand.

Arduino UNO make by a third-party company is not being registered/connecting to the Arduino board. Go to the manufacturers site and determine what libraries are missing and install them. For the board provided by the university you will need the following library:

'''''NOT HOW YOU ADD THIS:'''''

http://www.wch-ic.com/downloads/CH341SER_ZIP.html

Follow these steps:

* Select and download the driver appropriate for your operating system
* Add your library to the Arduino IDE

* Restart the Arduino IDE and attempt to run Blink as shown [[here]] [INSERT LINK TO INSTRUCTION].

=== Other Potential Problems ===
* If the port is still not showing up on the Arduino IDE as seen below, try to change the port being used and see if it is being registered.
[[File:Arduino IDE Menu.png|center|thumb|482x482px|Tools menu in Arduino IDE.]]

* Make sure that the correct board is selected as depicted in the figure above.

Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Understanding Arduino Boards

2022-07-25T18:11:08Z

Akhan325: Created page with "{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner|Understanding Arduino Boards}}"

{{#lsth:Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner|[[Digital technologies/Arduino/Arduino- Beginner/Understanding Arduino Boards|Understanding Arduino Boards]]}}