Here's a simple demonstration project to get you started with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) support in CircuitPython. Blinka jumps through a NeoPixel ring of fire, using a servo. It's all controlled wirelessly via the Adafruit Bluefruit LE Connect app from your phone or tablet, using a Feather nRF52840 Express and a CRICKIT FeatherWing.

You can adapt and expand upon this code for your own projects. Add more servos, add sound, whatever you want. It's up to you!

Parts

1 x Feather nRF52840 Express
A Feather board that supports BLE, running CIrcuitPython.
1 x Adafruit CRICKIT FeatherWing
Use with any Feather board
1 x 5V 2A (2000mA) switching power supply - UL Listed
You'll need this or another 5V power supply with a 2.1mm plug for the CRICKIT.
1 x Small Alligator Clip Test Leads
Cut these in half and solder one end to the NeoPixel Ring terminals.
1 x Male/Male Jumper Wires
Connect from the CRICKIT board to the alligator leads on the NeoPixel ring.
1 x Standard servo - TowerPro SG-5010 - 5010
A smaller servo would probably work too.

Other Materials and Tools

  • A wood base, about a foot square.
  • A scrap of wood, for mounting the servo. I used wood screws to hold the servo on by one set of its ears.
  • Foam core board, for mounting the front panel.
  • A rod, such as a piece of coat hanger, a chopstick, or even a straw. I used a thin piece of metal salvaged from a discarded windshield wiper, so I could bend one end to mount Blinka more easily.
  • Clear packing tape and office tape.
  • Hobby knife.
  • Glue stick.
  • Wire strippers.

Demonstration during Adafruit Show & Tell

This guide was first published on Jan 30, 2019. It was last updated on Mar 28, 2024.

This page (Overview) was last updated on Mar 08, 2024.

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