SparkFun Inventor's Kit - v4.1 (Special Edition)

The SparkFun Inventor's Kit (SIK) is an ideal starting point for beginners wanting to learn about programming and hardware interaction using the Arduino programming language. This comprehensive kit includes all you need to complete five major projects involving 16 interconnected circuits. These projects cover a wide range of topics from simple LED blinking to sensor reading, culminating in the creation of your very own autonomous robot! No previous programming or electronics experience is required, making this kit perfect for beginners aged 10 and up.

The SIK comes with a full-color, spiral-bound guidebook containing step-by-step instructions, circuit diagrams, and hookup tables for each project and circuit. Full example code is provided and new concepts and components are explained as they are introduced. Troubleshooting tips are also included to provide help if you encounter any issues.

SIK version 4.1 introduces a new approach to teaching embedded electronics. Unlike previous versions where each circuit introduced a new piece of technology, SIK v4.1 introduces components in the context of the circuit you are building. Each circuit builds upon the last, leading up to a project that incorporates all the components and concepts introduced throughout the guide. This strategy provides a brand-new experience, even for those who have used the SIK before.

SIK V4.1 includes the Redboard Qwiic, which allows you to expand into the SparkFun Qwiic ecosystem once you have mastered the SIK circuits. The SparkFun Qwiic Connect System is an ecosystem of I²C sensors, actuators, shields, and cables designed to make prototyping faster and less prone to error. All Qwiic-enabled boards use a common 1mm pitch, 4-pin JST connector, reducing the amount of required PCB space and eliminating the risk of incorrect connections. Please note, the SparkFun RedBoard Qwiic requires a new driver install that differs from the original SparkFun RedBoard.

Please be aware that due to global supply chain issues, some parts included in the SIK v4.1 are temporarily unavailable. As a result, this version of the SIK v4.1 is offered at a reduced price and comes in a red box instead of the usual HDPE carrying case. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to resolve this issue.

The SIK v4.1 kit includes a variety of components including the SparkFun RedBoard Qwiic, Arduino and Breadboard Holder, White Solderless Breadboard, SparkFun Mini Screwdriver, 16x2 White-on-Black LCD (with headers), SparkFun Motor Driver (with Headers), a Pair of Rubber Wheels, a Pair of Hobby Gearmotors, a Small Servo, an Ultrasonic Distance Sensor, a TMP36 Temp Sensor, a 6' USB micro-B Cable, Jumper Wires, a Photocell, a Tricolor LED, Red, Blue, Yellow and Green LEDs, Red, Blue, Yellow and Green Tactile Buttons, a 10K Trimpot, a Mini Power Switch, a Piezo Speaker, an AA Battery Holder, 330 and 10K Resistors, a Binder Clip, and a Dual-Lock™ Fastener.

The SIK Printed Guidebook, SIK Print Guide Errata (v4.1), Online Experiment Guide, RedBoard Qwiic Driver Install, SIK Info Page, and Dimensional Drawing documents are all available for download.

The kit enables you to undertake a variety of projects including Light (blinking an LED, using a potentiometer, using a photoresistor, creating a RGB night-light), Sound (using a buzzer, creating a digital trumpet, playing a "Simon Says" game), Motion (using servo motors, using a distance sensor, creating a motion alarm), Display (creating an LCD "Hello, World!", using a temperature sensor, creating a "DIY Who Am I?" game), and Robot (learning motor basics, building a remote-controlled robot, building an autonomous robot).