Learn how to set off an alarm when an object breaches a set perimet
In this mission, you will help Piperbot and Pip detect when an object breaches a set perimeter using the Distance Sensor and sound an alarm. Ask students: “What do you think home security systems use as the sensor? What about smart doorbells?”
Have an different version? Look for more information on the Support Page.
Troubleshooting Tips
Is the Range Finder not measuring distance?
Pay extra attention to the wiring diagram for this one.
Verify all your electrical connections, including that your Pico is connected to your computer.
It is common for the connections to be off by 1 or 2 holes. We recommend going through each build to ensure the connections are correct.
Don’t worry! One of the wires (NC) does not need to be connected.
How does the Distance Sensor work?
The Distance Sensor emits sound waves and measures the time it takes for them to bounce back. Measuring this determines the distance.
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Term Glossary
Circuit A conductive path for the flow of current or electricity.
Power The current or flow of electric charge and voltage.
Microcontroller An integrated circuit containing a microprocessor with memory and associated circuits.
Variables A value that can change depending on conditions or information passed to the program. A storage location with a symbolic name used to keep track of a value that can change while a program is running (similar concept to using X and Y in an algebraic equation). Variables are not only numbers; they can also hold text, including whole sentences (strings) or logical values (true or false).
Input Device A hardware device that sends data to a computer, allowing interaction and control.
Output Device A piece of hardware that converts information into a form humans can sense and understand.