JavaScript on microcontrollers allows for a wide range of IoT projects and applications.
People are building innovative solutions with microcontrollers, such as controlling lights and creating on-air lights.
Developing with JavaScript on microcontrollers requires specific tools, libraries, and considerations.
Deep dives
JavaScript on Microcontrollers: A Geek Out of Cool Possibilities
JavaScript can be used to control microcontrollers, allowing for a wide range of exciting projects and IoT applications. The accessibility of platforms like Arduino and the popularity of boards like ESP32 have made it easier for developers to dive into this field. JavaScript frameworks and libraries like Johnny-Five and Excess provide APIs and utilities to interact with the hardware. Standardization efforts like ECMA 419 are underway to define networking APIs for JavaScript on embedded devices. Developers can now use JavaScript in conjunction with technologies like server-sent events and multicast UDP to create interactive and offline-first IoT systems. Home automation enthusiasts can leverage projects like ESPHome and Home Assistant to integrate microcontrollers with their smart homes.
Building Projects with JavaScript on Microcontrollers
JavaScript on microcontrollers opens up a vast range of possibilities for projects and automation. People are building various innovative solutions using microcontrollers, including controlling lights, creating on-air lights, automating home devices, and constructing IoT systems. With the availability of sensors and modules, developers can design custom solutions, like automatic lights triggered by webcam or microphone status. Integration with home automation platforms like Home Assistant and protocols like MQTT enable seamless control and monitoring of devices. WebGL projection on climbing walls and interactive games are other exciting applications.
Development Considerations and Tools for JavaScript on Microcontrollers
Developing with JavaScript on microcontrollers requires specific tools and considerations. Platforms like Arduino and ESP32 offer a user-friendly environment for programming and flashing code onto the devices. Libraries like Johnny-Five and Excess provide APIs for interacting with hardware components and implementing sensors, LEDs, and other modules. Networking protocols like HTTP, MQTT, and multicast UDP enable communication between microcontrollers and other devices. Integration with home automation platforms, edge computing concepts, and Kubernetes for device clusters provide advanced automation possibilities. Accessible online marketplaces like Adafruit and SparkFun offer a wide range of microcontrollers, sensors, and accessories. Tinkering with these devices can be a refreshing and educational experience for both web developers and hobbyists.
Supporting Hardware Development with J5E and ECMAScript 4 and 9
The podcast episode discusses the use of J5E and ECMAScript 4 and 9 for developing hardware projects. J5E aims to provide a smooth and ergonomic API for programming devices, allowing simple commands like 'led.dot.pulse' or 'led.dot.toggle'. The APIs in ECMAScript 4 and 9 serve as the foundation for creating nicer, more user-friendly APIs in J5E. The episode also mentions the implementation of 'fetch' with ECMAScript 4 and 9 APIs, enabling versatile usage of 'fetch' across different environments. The podcast emphasizes the need for a supportive community and educational resources to encourage more people to explore and contribute to hardware development.
Tools and Recommendations for Hardware Development
The episode highlights some useful tools and resources for hardware development. The Fellow Opus Grinder is recommended for coffee lovers, offering a range of grind settings and a convenient catch for ground coffee. RTX (RT version manager) is suggested as a helpful tool for managing language versions and other tools across different projects and environments. The book 'Code: The Hidden Language of Computer Hardware and Software' is also mentioned as a valuable resource for understanding the basics of computing and interacting with hardware. The hosts also discuss the importance of hands-on experience and tangible interactions with hardware devices, emphasizing the need for community support and accessible tutorials to guide beginners in hardware projects.
In this supper club episode of Syntax, Wes and Scott talk with Nick Hehr about the fun ways to get started with micro controllers, writing JavaScript for hardware, and ideas for projects to build involving hardware and software.
