One of the most frequent questions I’m asked at Maker Faire is what the difference between Arduino and Netduino is. If you think it’s that the Netduino is just an Arduino that has something to do with the internet, you’d be incorrect! While the Netduino is an open source microcontroller that looks like a black and blue Arduino, the key difference is that it’s programmed using the Visual C# .NET programming language developed by Microsoft. This makes it perfect for people that are already familiar with .NET and don’t want the hassle of learning another variation of code.
Thanks to the Maker Shed’s Getting Started with Netduino Kit, learning to use this ARM based microcontroller is easy! This full featured package includes the Getting Started with Netduino book by Chris Walker, the creator of the Netduino platform. By following along in the book and using the included components you’ll learn how to:
- Install the free Visual C# Express .NET Micro Framework and Netduino SDK.
- Turn an LED on and off.
- Increase the capabilities of the Netduino using shields.
- Interact with digital and analog signals using the MakerShield.
- Dim and brighten LEDs using pulse width modulation and control RGB LEDs.
- Use electrical pulses to play a song and control servos.
- Create an app to control your Netduino over the internet.
So if you have ever been curious about the Netduino but don’t know where to begin, this is the kit for you!
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