Intro to Arduino and Microcontroller Programming

Learn what a microcontroller is, and how it differs from full-fledged computers as well as how to prototype with one! Join us at Hive76 for a hands-on introduction to hardware prototyping and the fascinating world of microcontrollers! Whether you are a software developer looking to get into physical computing, a maker wanting to add interactivity to your projects, or a complete beginner curious about electronics, this workshop will give you the foundational skills you need to start building your own hardware. We will demystify the hardware ecosystem, exploring exactly what a microcontroller is and how it differs from a full-fledged computer like a Raspberry Pi. Then, we will dive straight into the practical side by wiring up basic circuits and writing the code to control them. What You Will Learn • The Fundamentals: Understand the basics of electricity and how to safely build basic circuits. • Hardware Prototyping: Learn how to read a breadboard and wire up electronic components. • Programming: Write, compile, and upload code from your computer directly to the microcontroller to bring your prototype to life. What You Get to Keep You won't just learn the theory—you will leave with the hardware to keep building at home! All equipment is provided, and your registration includes a takeaway hardware kit featuring: • 1x ESP32 Microcontroller • 1x Solderless Breadboard • A small pack of electronic components What to Bring • Your Laptop: Please bring your own laptop (Windows, Mac, or Linux) to write and upload code. • A USB-C cable. It needs to be USB-C on the end that will connect to the ESP32. No prior hardware experience is required. Come learn, build, and take home the tools to start your next great electronics project!