Piano Shield for micro:bit - WHADDA - WPSH455
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Product Information
Full details
The Whadda Piano Shield is designed for creators and educators looking to build musical projects with the micro:bit. Its key benefit is providing an intuitive, integrated piano interface with 13 touch-sensitive keys, a buzzer, and RGB LEDs, all connectable directly to the micro:bit without extra cables. A minor caveat is that while it supports 5V DC via Micro USB, external power for the micro:bit itself is limited to 3-3.3V DC.
All features
| Model Part Number | WPSH455 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Whadda |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the Whadda Piano Shield?
The Whadda Piano Shield is an accessory for the micro:bit that adds 13 touch-sensitive piano keys, a buzzer, and four RGB LEDs, allowing you to create interactive musical projects.
Do I need a micro:bit to use this shield?
Yes, the Piano Shield is designed to be used in conjunction with a micro:bit board. The micro:bit is not included with the shield.
How does the shield connect to the micro:bit?
It connects directly via the micro:bit's edge connector, requiring no screws or additional cables for a simple and secure fit.
Can I connect other components to the shield?
Yes, the shield provides breakout pins for Power, Ground, P2, P8, SPI, and I2C connections, allowing you to expand your projects with additional sensors and modules.
What are the power requirements?
The shield can be powered via a 5V DC Micro USB port or a 3-3.3V DC external battery pack. The micro:bit itself is powered through the shield.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, it's ideal for beginners and educational purposes, allowing users to explore electronics, programming, and music creation in an engaging way. Advanced users can also utilize its expansion capabilities.
What programming languages can I use with the micro:bit and this shield?
You can use MakeCode (block-based or JavaScript) or MicroPython, which are the standard programming environments for the micro:bit.
Troubleshooting
No sound from the buzzer or no LED response.
Verify that the micro:bit is correctly seated on the shield and powered on. Check your code to ensure the buzzer and LED functions are being called correctly. Ensure the power source is adequate.
Touch keys are not registering input.
Confirm the micro:bit is securely connected. Check the code for correct pin assignments related to the TTP229-LSF capacitive touch controller. Ensure the shield and micro:bit are powered on.
Unexpected behavior or erratic readings.
Review your code for logical errors or conflicts. Ensure no external components connected to the breakout pins are causing interference. Try running a simple test program to isolate the issue.
Micro:bit does not power on when connected to the shield.
Ensure the power source (Micro USB or battery pack) is properly connected and providing the correct voltage. Check the micro:bit itself is functional by powering it directly.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Seamless integration with micro:bit via edge connector.
- Provides a full octave of playable piano keys for musical projects.
- Includes versatile output options with a buzzer and RGB LEDs.
- Expandable for advanced users with breakout pins for SPI, I2C, etc.
- Facilitates STEM learning and creative coding through interactive music creation.
Cons
- External battery power for micro:bit is limited to 3-3.3V.
- Requires a separate micro:bit board to function.
- The number of keys is limited to one octave.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
- Ensure your micro:bit is powered off.
- Align the micro:bit's edge connector with the corresponding connector on the Piano Shield.
- Gently press the micro:bit onto the shield until it is firmly seated. No screws or tools are required.
- Connect a power source to the shield's Micro USB port (5V DC) or an external battery pack (3-3.3V DC).
- Power on your micro:bit.
Compatibility:
- Primary Compatibility: micro:bit (all versions).
- Power: 5V DC via Micro USB, or 3-3.3V DC via external battery pack.
- Expansion: Compatible with standard jumper wires for accessing breakout pins (P2, P8, SPI, I2C, Power, Ground).
Care:
- Keep the shield clean and dry. Avoid exposure to moisture.
- Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners.
- Handle the shield with care to avoid damaging the touch-sensitive keys or electronic components.
- Store in a safe place when not in use to prevent dust accumulation and potential damage.