Anyone learning electronics using the BBC micro:bit mini PC may be interested in a new project which has been published to the official micro:bit website, explaining how to create your very own BBC micro:bit watch.
Building the BBC micro:bit watch takes just 15 minutes once you have gathered together all the components you need which can take the form of an old T-shirt or pair of jeans. This project is not only a fun and educational way to learn about electronics, but it also promotes recycling and reusing old materials, making it an eco-friendly activity.
Materials Needed for the BBC micro:bit Watch
What you will need to create your own BBC micro:bit watch:
• BBC micro:bit, battery holder and 2 AAA batteries
• Old T-shirt
• Old Jeans
• Velcro with sticky back – 5cm x 5cm
• Double-sided tape – 22cm x 5cm. You can find carpet tape in your local hardware shop
• Ruler and pen
• Scissors
These materials are easily accessible and can often be found around the house, making this project both cost-effective and convenient. The use of Velcro and double-sided tape ensures that the watch is adjustable and comfortable to wear.
Step-by-Step Instructions
To start, you will need to cut a piece of fabric from the old T-shirt and jeans. The T-shirt fabric will be used as the base of the watch, while the jeans fabric will provide a sturdy backing. Measure and cut the fabric to fit around your wrist comfortably. Use the ruler and pen to mark the dimensions before cutting.
Next, attach the Velcro to the ends of the fabric strips. This will allow you to fasten the watch around your wrist securely. Make sure the Velcro pieces align correctly so that the watch stays in place.
Now, use the double-sided tape to attach the BBC micro:bit to the fabric. Place the battery holder and batteries on the opposite side of the micro:bit to balance the weight. Ensure that the connections are secure and that the micro:bit is functioning correctly.
Once everything is in place, you can customize your watch further by programming the BBC micro:bit. You can create various watch faces, set alarms, or even add games and other interactive features. The micro:bit website offers a range of tutorials and code examples to help you get started.
For full instructions on how to create your very own BBC micro:bit watch, jump over to the official website via the link below.
Additional Tips and Ideas
To make your BBC micro:bit watch even more unique, consider decorating the fabric with fabric paint or markers. You can also sew additional pockets or loops to hold other small gadgets or accessories.
If you are new to programming, the BBC micro:bit website provides a wealth of resources to help you learn. You can start with simple projects and gradually move on to more complex ones as you become more comfortable with coding.
This project is a great way to introduce children to the world of electronics and programming. It combines creativity with technical skills, making learning fun and engaging. Plus, the satisfaction of wearing a watch that you built yourself is unparalleled.
Source: BBC
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