Replacement: KIT-10547. The new version of this kit is easier than ever for the beginning solderer! This page is for reference only.
Description: This is a through-hole version of our popular surface mount Simon kit. This newer version comes with an ATmega328 instead of the ATmega168. All components are through-hole, making this kit great for beginners. When building this kit, you'll have a chance to solder a 28-pin microprocessor, LEDs, battery clips and more.
Note: This ATmega328 comes pre-programmed with the Simon code as well as the STK500 serial bootloader. This serial bootloader will allow you to re-program the Simon game using the Arduino development environment. There is not direct support under the Arduino IDE but the 'Lilypad Arduino w/ ATmega168' should allow you to reprogram the board using Arduino. You can also use a standard text editor and WinAVR. The serial port on this board requires a male header and FTDI Basic board, not included, but related below.
After you have successfully assembled the kit, you will have a greater knowledge of through-hole soldering and the tools, techniques, and terminology required to populate your own PCB prototype. You will have a development platform with 5 outputs (LEDs and buzzer), 5 inputs (buttons), and serial for debugging. And, of course, you'll have your very own Simon game!
Checkout the assembly instructions - we're pretty proud of them. The kit even includes batteries! Assembly time varies, but for a true beginner with no soldering experience, the kit can take 20-40 minutes to assemble.
This product makes for a great gift too! For more gift ideas check out the SparkFun Gift Guide!
Kit Includes:
A soldering iron and wire cutters are the bare minimum tools required. We scoured the earth and found a really fantastic beginner's soldering iron for $10, solder for $2, and wire cutters for $2.
Documents: