Fairy Lights

Fairy Lights

Have you seen how those fairy lights alternate between bulbs to create a moving pattern? We’ll show you how to do it!

What’s in it for you

In this project, you’ll learn how to make two LEDs flash in red and green an alternate pattern, just like fairy lights or strobe lights. You’ll even experiment with making the pattern continues with forever loops!

Tools of the trade

This project goes light on the equipment. Here’s a super-short list of what you’ll need :
  A laptop or computer
  GizmoBot hardware
  mBlock Version 3 software (ready for download here!)

At the end of the project

Once you’ve completed all the steps, you’ll have before you a fully-functioning LED setup where the lights blink in an alternating pattern for as long as you want! You’ll also be a pro at:
  Timing the alternating blinks
  Changing the LED colours

Sneak peeks at key steps

Can’t wait to get started Here’s a glimpse into what awaits :
  Assign each LED to a pin number
  Set the red and green color values according to the LED pin numbers
  Bring in a forever loop from the Control tab to create a continuous loop

The rest of the steps are as interesting as that, so don’t wait to join the program!

Hints for programmers

Play around with the colour values to create a combination of your favourite hues, and time them to blink when you want them to.

Stuck in a rut

Need a little help on one of the steps Our helpful project leaders will come to your aid, so don’t be afraid to ask.

See it in action

If you’re curious to see what the Gizmobot will look like after you’re done, we’ve got the answer:

Have something better up your sleeve?

We’d love to see it. Tinker around with the software and hardware available and see what fun patterns you can make!