Unit 28: Coding Arduino C++ – Supercharged Science

Coding Arduino C++ with Brian

Welcome! This is Brian's computer science and coding page for Arduino C++ and the Arduino microcontroller. This page contains resources for the upcoming 2025 - 26 school year.

During the upcoming school year, you’ll learn to write computer programs using Arduino C++ to control an Arduino Uno R3 microcontroller.

Through hands-on coding (called sketches), you’ll help digital computers interact with the analog world.

This class starts from the beginning and assumes no prior knowledge of electronics or coding.

You’ll build programs that read sensors (like temperature, light, and distance) and control outputs (like LEDs, motors, and relays).

In addition to coding and electronics, this class is an introduction to computer science, covering:

Programming fundamentals: functions, loops, conditionals, variables
Key concepts: binary numbers, Boolean logic, and libraries
Problem-solving skills: debugging techniques and common coding mistakes

There will also be frequent challenges during “off” weeks — perfect for returning students seeking a deeper experience.

By the end of this course, you'll have an excellent foundation to help you write your own programs.

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2025-26 Coding Arduino C++ Shopping List

Purchase Kits for Electronics and Coding Classes

Follow Brian's company on Facebook

The Arduino Uno R3

In addition to the electronics parts, this course requires an Arduino Uno R3. Be sure that you order an Uno that is labeled "R3". (R3 stands for Revision 3).

You can add one to your kit order from FutureVision Research or you can purchase it separately:

Click here to order an Arduino Uno R3 from Amazon.

You will also need a USB-A to USB-B cable.

Click here to order a USB cable from Amazon.

Getting Ready for Your Classes

Step 1.
Subscribe to Brian's class update email list through Substack.

Brian uses this email list to send updates throughout the year.

During the summer he provides information on kits.

During the school year, Brian sends information on class resources and upcoming projects.

Click Here to subscribe to Brian's email list

Step 2.
Practice Touch Typing

Touch typing is an important part of coding.

Learn to touch type with this free service.

Note: Supercharged Science is not affiliated with TypingClub.

Step 3.
Order your supplies

If you want to build the electronics projects with Brian, you will need parts.

Order a parts kit directly from Brian here.

Kits can be ordered at anytime and will be shipped as soon as possible.

This class requires:

FutureVision Research Kit: Sensors, Motors, and More – Version 3
(or use the shopping list available on this page)
Arduino Uno R3, USB cable
A Windows, Apple, or Linux computer

Watch this video for an explanation of the class schedule and required supplies.

Step 4.
Install the Arduino IDE* Program onto Your Computer

We'll use a program called "Arduino IDE" to upload programs to our device.

The Arduino IDE is available here: arduino.cc/en/software

*This year, we are using this "installable" version (instead of the cloud version that was used during the 2023 - 24 classes).

Step 5.
Watch the special class "Getting Organized and Preparing for Coding the Arduino with Brian."

This class will show you how to organize your electronic parts.

If you want to build the electronics projects with Brian, you will need parts.

All the electronic parts required are included in Brian's kit, "Sensors, Motors, and More V3".

Order them directly from Brian here.

Note regarding parts boxes (this will be addressed during the getting organized class):

As of August 2025, Harbor Freight has discontinued their Storehouse 10 Utility Box. However, Brian does have the 10 tray boxes in stock.

Therefore, if you purchase Brian's "Sensors, Motors, and More" kit for this class, you will have the option to add a 10-tray box to your order.

Boxes purchased from Brian will include “ready-to-cut” label cards to help you organize your parts. Alternatively, you can order the boxes directly from Harbor Freight and then purchase the cards from Brian, or print your own.

The links below provide printable labels for the 10-tray utility boxes. If you have the new 4 drawer boxes, please visit Unit 25 to download the proper labels.

Download the label packet for 10-tray boxes (double sided printers)

Download the label packet for 10-tray boxes (single sided printers)

Download the label instructions

Step 6.
Join Brian's Classes

This class occurs on Wednesday and Thursday every other week at 8:00AM (Pacific). Each session is approximately 60 minutes and includes time for Q&A, troubleshooting and interaction between Brian and the students.

Thursday classes will include up to an extra 30 minutes of discussion time.

All classes are on Zoom, and all recordings are posted to this page (below).

Each class covers different content, and the Wednesday/Thursday two-day format means that Part 1 is on Wednesday and Part 2 is on Thursday. Please make sure you attend all the sessions if you wish to make all of the projects.

Coding Arduino C++ with Brian classes are Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8:00AM on the following dates in 2025:

(2026 dates will be posted in November)

Class discussions are Thursdays at 9:00AM (Pacific) after regular class.