Kitronik ZIP LEDs Add-On Pack for Kitronik Inventors Kit

This expansion set for the Kitronik Inventors Kit for the BBC micro:bit offers the perfect way to learn about the amazing world of ZIP LEDs. These LEDs are easy to operate and can be used to produce a whole range of fantastic colours.

The majority of consumer electronics heavily rely on LEDs, as LEDs are a great way to provide direct visual feedback to the user. With this expansion pack, you will learn how to write code to gain control over ZIP LEDs and also how to make ZIP LEDs respond to input from components such as potentiometers and sensors. There are ten experiments, 9 in the booklet and one online, that will help you develop the skills needed to add visual feedback to your projects.

ZIP LEDs are individually addressable RGB LEDs. The name is a nod to the ZIP codes used in the USA. Each LED can be controlled independently, and all the LEDs are connected via the same three-wire bus. Each LED can produce a full spectrum of colours, independent of other LEDs on the same bus.

ZIP LEDs are based on the WS2812B component and are often referred to as NeoPixels (which is a trademark of Adafruit) and are compatible with Adafruit NeoPixel and other WS2812B control code. They can be programmed for the micro:bit in both MakeCode Blocks and MicroPython.

Features:

• Learn how to control the colours of ZIP LEDs.
• Learn how to move a light through a number of ZIP LEDs.
• Learn how to control ZIP LEDs independently.
• Learn how to make ZIP LEDs respond to input from electronic components and sensors.

Content:

• 2 x ZIP Stick - 5 LEDs each.
• 1 x ZIP Ring - 12 LEDs.
• 1 x Holder for 3 AA batteries.
• 1 x Manual.

Video:

• Kitronik Inventors Kit for the BBC micro:bit.
• BBC micro:bit.
• Micro USB cable.
• 3 x AA batteries.
• Small flat screwdriver.

Resources:

• ZIP LEDs Experiment 10 - Using A Potentiometer To Control an LED.