Make: Connected Devices 

 AGE: 13+ 

Experience the power of Communication

On a mobile phone, we use GSM technology to talk to a person far away in another city. On our computers or gaming consoles, we use Wifi to play multi-player games or participate in social networks. We use bluetooth to  pair our headphones and listen to music from an Audio system. We use GPS to navigate our way on Google Maps.

Of course, these technologies are used extensively in Manufacturing, Logistics, Agriculture, Healthcare and several other industries.

And, it is because of "Communication Technologies" that we live in a more comfortable and enjoyable world. Sure, these technologies can be mis-used, but this is a matter of our principles, ethics and discipline, not of science and technology and probably need laws to govern their development and usage. However, the truth is that our ability to communicate, share and collaborate is what places us ahead of other species in this world. 

In this program, you will learn all the above technologies as well as radio communication, Infra-red communication, RFID communication and more...  

What you will make

Come Rain or Shine

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Check the Humidity, Temperature and Light Levels of your home from anywhere in the world. 
This Project uses WiFi capable Node MCU, sensors and the Adafruit Cloud for publishing sensor values on a dashboard.

Access Granted

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Use an RFID card to get access to a secured door operated by a servo motor. No keys required !
This Project uses an Arduino UNO, an RFID Reader and two  RFID Tags and one RFID key fob.

Couch Potato

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Feeling Lazy? Control your devices with an Infrared Remote Control. 
This Project uses an Arduino UNO, an Infrared Remote Control and an infrared Reader.

Breathless

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How bad is the air quality? Find out the level of PM 2.5 pollutants in your garden and transmit using radios to your home.
This Project uses an Arduino UNO, a Node MCU, a Radio Transmitter and a Radio Receiver. 

More Power to You

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Home automation on your mind? Control a 220V lamp with your mobile phone. 
This Project uses a Node MCU working as a webserver, 2 channel relays and a browser on the mobile phone or a PC.

Watch out Grandpa

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Take care of elders. Make a "Fall detection" device which senses the falling of a person and immediately dials the caregiver. 
This project uses an accelerometer, a Node MCU and a GSM chip for making phone calls.

Where is Bruno

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No panic! If you are worried about locating your missing dog, this location tracker will do just that on a real-time map. 
This Project uses a Node MCU and a GPS sensor along with a GSM chip to send SMS alerts to you.

Attention! Right Turn

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Forget about video games. Make a mobile application which uses bluetooth to control your toy car. 
This Project uses an Node MCU, Bluetooth receiver, a mobile phone and a 3WD robot car with motors et al.

What you will learn

SCIENCE

You will learn various aspects of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, which are used in Digital components like Sensors, Communicators and Responders. You will learn how to use dispersion of infrared light, wireless transmission of power,  latitudes and longitudes... and put these concepts to real use. This understanding makes the difference between a Carpenter and a Designer. We are helping build a community of thinkers, designers and makers. Large text.

SENSORS

We have 5 sense organs, they say - eyes, ears, tongue, nose and the skin. Incorrect. We also have the ability to sense speed, velocity, acceleration, tilt, electrical fields, magnetic fields, pH of the blood, amount of Carbohydrates consumed ... What you will learn is how our electronic Sensors work - RFID sensors, Infrared sensors, air-quality sensors, accelerometers, location sensors etc. 

COMMUNICATION

You will learn how to communicate between devices at short, medium and long distances. Communication technologies like RFID, Bluetooth, Infra-red, GPRS, GPS, radio along with cloud based storage and dashboarding systems.  In addition, you will learn about private and public networks and how to access a local resource using the mobile phone.

MICROPROCESSORS

You will learn various aspects of a fairly powerful and popular microprocessor called Node MCU which has embedded Wi-fi capabilities and can behave both like a web-server and a web-client allowing you to communicate through the Internet. You will also learn to communicate between 2 microprocessors - the Node MCU and the Arduino UNO.  

CODING

Coding will be done largely on the Arduino IDE where you will learn how to program a non-Arduino board, after necessary configurations. Advanced concepts of C
++ like Arrays, manipulation of ASCII strings, enums, structs... You will also build a mobile application using the MIT Inventor App which will control a robot. 

RESPONDERS

To begin with, you will build a visual dashboard of data which will give you information about how measurement parameters are behaving in real time, for instance, tracking the path of your lost dog on a real-time map. You will use Relays and learn how to work with devices operating at 220V, allowing any light, switch or hair - dryer to behave as a Responder. You will also trigger mobile calls and SMS messages using a mobile phone.

MAKING

For the heart of the Projects, you will learn how to read friendly circuit diagrams, connect the sensors, communicators, microprocessor, and Responders using breadboards and jumper wires. Further, you will also learn how to give a face and body to your Project by building creative structures using cardboard, wood and paper as a building material.  

Your Learning Environment

When you join the programme of Make:Digital Devices, you will get a comprehensive Kit which contains all the Sensors, Responders and a Microprocessor, along with all accessories - with a promise that they will work together, seamlessly. An engaging and interactive online platform along with 24x7 online support is, naturally, a part of the deal. And, you will also connect with Distinguished members of the Industry who are using these technologies to transform their industries. 

The Kit

Contains all the hardware, cables and accessories required for all the Projects. And a Creative Kit which allows you to showcase your projects in an aesthetic manner.

Online Learning Platform

Learning units embedded with rich media and organised in a simple intuitive forum. Social engagement utilities allow you to ask questions, share an idea and give feedback to your peers.

24x7 Online Support 

We are with you 24x7 to guide you, help you, troubleshoot an issue -essentially to make sure that you are successful. An online Learning Support Desk connects you to us.

Industry Connect

Meet Industry Leaders through live Webinars and Recorded Video Sessions, to understand how they use these technologies and the impact on their business.

Unlock your child's potential with Our Innovative Digital Learning Programs for the Future at just
INR 19,500!

Frequently asked questions

1. What are the pre-requisites for this course?

You must be pretty familiar with Arduino UNO, Arduino IDE, libraries and flashing the code. Basics of C++, understanding of essential sensors and responders is also required. It is strongly suggested that you complete the Make: Digital Devices program, before you start this.

You will, also need: 
- a computer with a camera and speakers/headphone
- internet connection with minimum 60 to 100 Mbps internet bandwidth
- a google account 

Most critically,  you need loads and loads of curiosity and creativity!

2. How much time will it take?

There are 12 structured projects and 12 Challenge Projects. We estimate that if you are investing 4 to 6 hours per week, it will take you about an year to complete. 

3. Can I only do the 8 Projects you have mentioned?

The English language has just 26 alphabets. Yet, you have millions of stories! What you are learning are the digital alphabets of tomorrow. The number of stories we can create is limited only by our sensitivities, our imagination and perseverance.

4. Will I be able to access my Projects after one year?

Of course. You have lifelong access to the site. There are no additional charges to be paid periodically. Nothing. So, learn at your own pace. And if you finish early, just grab the next Course - "Make: Connected Devices".

5. There is a different Project I want to do. Will you help me?

We have carefully structured the Course to ensure that your capabilities are being built up in a systematic manner. You may find that the Project you want to do is covered in the other two courses - Make: Connected Devices or Make: Smart Devices.
But, if you still want our help for a special Project, we will help you, as long as your Project is within the concepts covered in "Make: Digital Devices"

6. After say, one year, when I am done with the Projects, will you buy-back the kit?

You will see that several components, if not all, can be used in the other courses and can help you build projects which can be truly fascinating
So, we urge you to retain your kit and keep making awesome stuff. But, if you are just not interested in the "Digital Domain", we are working out how the under-served children can take advantage of low cost materials. We are thinking about it.
Watch this space for any developments in this regard.

7. I still have a question. What do I do?

We would love to hear from you - just contact us at info@maekers.com, and we will respond within 24 hours
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