PICAXE

Throughout many Genesis projects we are using the PICAXE microcontroller. A microcontroller is a little computer integrated in a chip. A common computer consists of several parts like the processor (CPU), the I/O Control Hub and the memory. Microcontrollers have all the necessary parts already included in the chip, so you don't have to worry about the connection of those parts because the microcontroller manages all this for you.

But of course a microcontroller needs to know what it should do. So you should learn how to write programs for it and be able to transfer these programs to the the PICAXE.

We will provide you a little PICAXE instruction here. If you want to get further and more detailed information you can visit the PICAXE website. It contains a large collection of useful materials such as general references, BASIC commands and technical datasheets.

Upon registration, the School of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering will provide your school with ready-made Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). However, you will also need to purchase some basic electronic components. The School uses Altronics, but you are free to use whichever supplier you see fit.

If you want to do some further experiments at home you can also purchase a microcontroller on your own. The costs for a PICAXE18 microcontroller will be approximately A$13.

For connecting the Genesis boards to a PC, you will need a plug that connects the serial interface (COM) on the PC side to a 3.5mm stereo jack plug connector on the Genesis board. If you are unable to acquire one, you should be able to construct such a cable without too much difficulty.

Links

PICAXE
Altronics - Electronics Shop
Microcontroller - Wikipedia
Jack plug - Wikipedia