September 14, 2021
Lab 1: Components
It’s been great reading through info about components, some of which I have used in previous classes and projects, and many of which I haven’t. I’ve been noticing myself shifting into a different mode of thinking already while reading: a very logical, procedural, minuscule frame of mind — it’s hard to describe, but it feels almost as if my sense of time melts away. I’ve experienced this frame of mind before when studying for a neuroscience class getting into the nitty gritty of how specific neurons work.
I’m also finding that there is a lot of information that I had not previously encountered, some quite basic — like data sheets! (I had previously relied heavily on tutorials or Internet forums). It feels good to be covering the basics.
Things to look for in a datasheet are: output characteristics, supply characteristics, minimum and maximums.
What I don’t understand currently is the concept of ground.
Lab 2: Setting up a Breadboard
Setting up the breadboard to power an LED. I also refreshed some of my prior experience working with circuits to power three LEDs in parallel.
Lab 3: Electronics and Using a Multimeter
I’ve used a multimeter before in a physics class in high school -- more than 5 years ago! This section was also a good refresher on using tools as well as concepts like resistance and power loss through other forms of energy such as heat, and very much needed.
Using a multimeter to measure direct voltage. On the left, the red probe (V) is in contact with the anode while the black probe (ground) is in contact with the cathode. Flipped around, the voltage reading is negative.
Here I’m also using a 9V battery and 7805 voltage regulator to make sure the
Lab 4: Switches
Connecting 3 switches in parallel - any switch pressed turns on the LED.
Making a note of Durell Bishop’s Marble Answering Machine, which I felt particularly inspired by in this week’s readings.