Makey Makey with Box Documentation

Component Name

Makey Makey with Box

Overview

The Makey Makey with Box is an innovative invention kit that allows users to create custom controllers and interfaces using everyday objects. It is a popular IoT component among makers, educators, and hobbyists, enabling the creation of interactive projects without requiring extensive programming knowledge.

Description

The Makey Makey with Box is a compact, rectangular device (approximately 4 inches x 2 inches x 1 inch) that connects to a computer via a USB cable. The device features a series of color-coded input terminals, a power switch, and a reset button. The kit comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including

6 alligator clips

6 jumper wires

1 USB cable

1 instruction manual

1 carrying box

Functionality

The Makey Makey with Box acts as a bridge between the physical world and the digital realm. It allows users to create custom interfaces by connecting everyday objects to the device's input terminals. When an object is connected to the terminal, the Makey Makey detects the connection and translates it into keyboard or mouse inputs that can be recognized by a computer.

Key Features

Analog-to-Digital Conversion: The Makey Makey with Box features advanced analog-to-digital conversion technology, enabling it to detect subtle changes in resistance and capacitance in connected objects.
Multitouch Capability: The device can detect multiple simultaneous connections, allowing users to create complex interfaces with multiple inputs.
Keyboard and Mouse Emulation: The Makey Makey can mimic keyboard and mouse inputs, making it compatible with a wide range of software applications and games.
Plug-and-Play: The device is plug-and-play, requiring no drivers or software installations.
Open-Source: The Makey Makey with Box is an open-source platform, encouraging users to share their projects and contribute to the community.
Education-Friendly: The kit is designed with educators in mind, providing a hands-on way to teach programming concepts, circuitry, and creative problem-solving.
Collaboration-Ready: The carrying box and compact design make it easy to share and collaborate on projects with others.

Operating System

Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux

Connectivity

USB 2.0

Input Voltage

5V DC

Current Consumption

200mA

Dimensions

4 inches x 2 inches x 1 inch (10.2 cm x 5.1 cm x 2.5 cm)

Conclusion

The Makey Makey with Box is a powerful tool for creative makers, educators, and hobbyists. Its unique functionality and versatility make it an ideal component for a wide range of IoT projects, from interactive art installations to innovative assistive devices. With its ease of use, open-source nature, and educational focus, the Makey Makey with Box has become a staple in the maker community.

Pin Configuration

Makey Makey with Box Documentation
Overview
The Makey Makey with Box is a popular invention kit that allows users to turn everyday objects into touchpads and create innovative projects. It's a simple, yet powerful tool for creatives, educators, and makers. This documentation will guide you through the pin configuration and connection structure of the Makey Makey with Box.
Pin Configuration
The Makey Makey with Box has a total of 18 pins, divided into three sections: INPUT, OUTPUT, and POWER. Each pin has a specific function, which is explained below:
INPUT Section (6 Pins)
GND: Ground pin, used as a reference point for the circuit.
IN1: Input pin 1, used to connect objects that will act as keys or switches.
IN2: Input pin 2, used to connect objects that will act as keys or switches.
IN3: Input pin 3, used to connect objects that will act as keys or switches.
IN4: Input pin 4, used to connect objects that will act as keys or switches.
IN5: Input pin 5, used to connect objects that will act as keys or switches.
OUTPUT Section (6 Pins)
OUT1: Output pin 1, used to connect devices or circuits that will respond to the input signals.
OUT2: Output pin 2, used to connect devices or circuits that will respond to the input signals.
OUT3: Output pin 3, used to connect devices or circuits that will respond to the input signals.
OUT4: Output pin 4, used to connect devices or circuits that will respond to the input signals.
OUT5: Output pin 5, used to connect devices or circuits that will respond to the input signals.
OUT6: Output pin 6, used to connect devices or circuits that will respond to the input signals.
POWER Section (6 Pins)
USB: USB connection pin, used to connect the Makey Makey with Box to a computer or power source.
VIN: Input voltage pin, used to connect an external power source (optional).
3V: 3V output pin, used to power small devices or circuits.
GND: Ground pin, used as a reference point for the circuit.
EN: Enable pin, used to turn the Makey Makey with Box on or off (optional).
RST: Reset pin, used to reset the Makey Makey with Box (optional).
Connecting the Pins
To connect the pins, follow these steps:
1. Connect the INPUT pins: Connect conductive materials (such as copper wire, foil, or everyday objects) to the INPUT pins (IN1-IN5). These materials will act as keys or switches.
2. Connect the OUTPUT pins: Connect devices or circuits that will respond to the input signals to the OUTPUT pins (OUT1-OUT6).
3. Power the Makey Makey with Box: Connect the USB cable to a computer or power source to power the Makey Makey with Box.
4. Optional: Connect external power source: If using an external power source, connect the VIN pin to the positive terminal of the power source, and the GND pin to the negative terminal.
5. Optional: Use the EN and RST pins: If using the EN pin, connect it to a switch or button to turn the Makey Makey with Box on or off. If using the RST pin, connect it to a button or switch to reset the Makey Makey with Box.
Tips and Precautions
Always use the GND pin as a reference point when connecting devices or circuits.
Make sure to connect devices or circuits that match the voltage and current requirements of the Makey Makey with Box.
Avoid short-circuiting the pins or connecting devices that may cause damage to the Makey Makey with Box.
Use the Makey Makey with Box in a well-ventilated area, away from moisture and extreme temperatures.
By following this documentation, you'll be able to connect the pins of the Makey Makey with Box and start creating innovative projects that bring your ideas to life.

Code Examples

Makey Makey with Box Documentation

Overview
The Makey Makey with Box is a innovative invention kit that allows users to turn everyday objects into touchpads and create custom interfaces. It is a simple, yet powerful tool for makers, educators, and innovators to explore the world of electronics and programming.

Technical Specifications

Microcontroller: ATmega32u4
 Operating Voltage: 5V
 Input Voltage: 4-9V
 Current Consumption: 50mA
 Communication: USB
 Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome OS

Getting Started

Before diving into the code examples, make sure to:

1. Connect the Makey Makey to your computer via USB.
2. Download and install the Makey Makey drivers and software from the official website.
3. Open the Makey Makey software and ensure the device is recognized.

Code Examples

Example 1: Basic Button Interface

In this example, we will create a simple button interface using a banana as a touchpad. We will connect the banana to the Makey Makey and program it to simulate a keyboard key press.

Circuit

Connect the Makey Makey to your computer via USB.
 Connect the banana to the Makey Makey's EARTH pin using a alligator clip or a wire.
 Connect the other end of the alligator clip or wire to the Makey Makey's KEY pin (e.g., KEY_UP).

Code (Arduino IDE)
```c
void setup() {
  pinMode(KEY_UP, INPUT);
}

void loop() {
  if (digitalRead(KEY_UP) == LOW) {
    Keyboard.press('W'); // Simulate the 'W' key press
    delay(100);
    Keyboard.release('W');
  }
}
```
In this example, when the banana is touched, it simulates a 'W' key press.

Example 2: Game Controller

In this example, we will create a simple game controller using a cardboard box, copper tape, and the Makey Makey. We will program the Makey Makey to simulate keyboard inputs for a popular keyboard-based game.

Circuit

Connect the Makey Makey to your computer via USB.
 Create a simple cardboard box with copper tape connections to the Makey Makey's KEY pins (e.g., KEY_UP, KEY_DOWN, KEY_LEFT, KEY_RIGHT).
 Connect the other end of the copper tape to the Makey Makey's EARTH pin.

Code (Scratch)
```scratch
when space key pressed
  broadcast [Arrow Up v]
when down arrow key pressed
  broadcast [Arrow Down v]
when left arrow key pressed
  broadcast [Arrow Left v]
when right arrow key pressed
  broadcast [Arrow Right v]
```
In this example, we use Scratch to program the Makey Makey to simulate keyboard inputs for a game. When the copper tape connections are touched, the corresponding keyboard inputs are sent to the game.

These examples demonstrate the versatility and creativity of the Makey Makey with Box. By using everyday objects and simple programming, users can create innovative interfaces and projects that can be used in various contexts, from education to art installations.

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