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Functions and Usage

The Funkey Sensor board serves as a base for a wide variety of activities both with and without a computer. Sensors can be set up to control outputs.  Sensors can also be used to control simple programs using Scratch.  Attachment ports on the FunKey Super are labelled with letters, or words like Left, Right, Click, etc. That's where you attach the yellow wire for both inputs and outputs.  Many sensors and outputs require power and ground connections using the alligator clips to the top power row, and the bottom ground row. The board itself can be powered using a USB cable connected to a computer, or for internal sensor/output any USB power source will work.

Sensor inputs include:

  • photocell to measure light

  • proximity to detect nearby objects

  • touch 

  • potentiometer dial

  • heartbeat detector

  • moisture detector

  • motion detector

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Outputs include:

  • LED

  • buzzer

  • servo motor

  • continuous motor

  • Scratch programming "keystrokes"

Internal functions include:

  • An Input connected to the A port controls an output connected to the S port

  • An input on the L port will control a servo motor connected to the F port

  • An input on the Up port will control and output on the Down port

  • An input on the H port will control an output on the I port

  • Touching the Click port will control an output on the Left and Right ports.

External functions send keystrokes to the computer and include:​

  • A heartbeat sensor connected to the K port will send a "b" key to Scratch for every detected heartbeat, after a startup stabilization period of about 20 seconds

  • Touching the Click port will send a "c" key to Scratch

  • A sensor on the W port will send a keystroke of O when activated and P when deactivated

  • A sensor on the D port will send a keystroke of U when activated and I when deactivated

Make sure to disconnect any sensors or outputs that are not related to a current experiment.  In some cases you may have to set up the experiment and THEN plug the board into the computer's USB port.

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