Standard Disclaimer: Everything in this post is from top-of-mind memory, understanding and awareness – not necessarily the truth, and subject to change.
Primary intention of revisiting microcontrollers, after first learning about this in 2010, is current reality that (for career development/longevity), it behooves me to be technically savvy around Python/C/C++ and AI/ML, CyberSecurity, along with Data Science/Analysis.
Parallax
Going back to 2010, I heard about California-based Parallax, and purchased their “What is a Microcontroller kit”. Relatively inexpensive (and also received a hefty discount), but didn’t really take it on seriously – maybe because I didn’t have an underlying motivation/reason at the time.
One key attraction to their offering is that you can take programming to another level by building something tangible – a blinking light; a moving arm; a robot, etc. That made the project more intriguing and appealing.
The concept and interest didn’t leave, and I observed (over the years) various technologies developing: cloud; Big Data; storage; robotics; AI/ML; CyberSecurity – all maturing and collaborating with each other. Programming languages were still in play with: Python; C/C++.
Raspberry Pi
I was aware of Raspberry Pi in 2012, but was primarily focused on navigating/supporting IBM Domino and Notes. Dabbled a bit with Linux (Ubuntu and Centos), but not at any depth.
Over time, my readings of Raspberry Pi development, have introduced several (high-level) potential goals. Based on desired project, ability to customize building a relatively inexpensive hardware platform with a choice of various operating systems (including the default: Raspbian OS). Formerly considered standard within a 19″ rack – database servers – are now common-place in smaller form factors.
After acclimating with (Arduino and Microbit) projects, I foresee building a Raspberry Pi 5 Server for learning/integrating systems towards AI/ML. There are some cool cases I’ve read about from Pironman.
AI expansion
As of 2024, the marketing around Artificial Intelligence (AI) has really taken off. In reading about Raspberry Pi, there appears to be add-on boards that create additional compute capacity. I’m cautiously optimistic about AI – especially towards human case managers, who may benefit from an assist with decision support and manual processing. What I’m holding off on is a belief that some app called ChatGPTx is the immediate answer, without initial foundational understanding.
One idea that I’d love to work towards, is some form of GTD Assistant, that I can personalize to my own preferences.
Fun reflection to remember a conversation in 1986 at Fordham University, where my college buddy (Jose, who has now been at IBM for decades), eagerly talk about “Artificial Intelligence” and how he was learning Prolog on the personal computer. He wrote a book – “Pascal with Objects”.
Storage
My experience has always been with traditional spinning drives – laptops and servers. I have basic understanding of Solid State drives (that have minimal moving parts). I’m still learning the pros and cons; storage capacity; buffering; data transfer rates, etc. In looking at Raspberry Pi (Pironman) it’s a bit mind-numbing trying to figure out which brand, model, feature-set is appropriate.
I’ve had some experience with Micro SD Cards, but even then – which brand and storage capacity? In general, I’ve seen this used for loading of OS like Raspberry Pi, and then connecting an SSD drive to take it from there. I’ve always thought of drives as external, but now I’m seeing small (and thin) boards that go inside the case. Amazing how small things are getting lately.
Micro:bit
First heard about Micro:bit when on the Parallax site, looking at Cyber:Bot robots. Appears that BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) funded a bunch of these boards to be manufactured and shipped to schools throughout the UK. Idea being to create awareness and interest to the younger generation for developing skillsets (programming, hardware, robotics, AI/ML, etc.) I’ve found the price point quite low, with add-ons being reasonable.
Programming language appears to be MicroPython (subset of Python), but you can integrate many other language.
Paralallax has a “What is a a microcontroller” kit that is the microbot board, breadboard, and a bunch of wires and resistors. From there you can upgrade to a Cyber:bot robot, and continue learning towards adding other sensors, movement, etc. Still working on understanding this, but there are courses in AL, ML, Cyber.
Only thing getting in way, in my mindset (for now), is that it’s all marketed primarily at a younger audience. I figured I’ll loop back in to this at some point, as I’m really interested in learning (and certifying) on Python – towards AI/ML and Data Analysis.
I read there’s a strategic collaboration with www.cyber.org – supporting teachers in teaching foundation in CyberSecurity to the next generation.
Inventr.io
Came across this organization from ads on my iPhone. I’m seeing a focus on Arduino (Uno), with their HERO brand, as their starter microcontroller. While it’s evident that an area of focus is younger generation, the video content is aimed at an older crowd – possibly the parent. That, for some reason, appealed to me. I shifted from immediately considering MicroBit to immediately choosing Arduino, to get started. Plan is to complete the gamification approach of “30 Days Lost in Space” program, then purchase the Microbit. Was able to put it together pretty quickly and made the onboard LED blink.