SparkFun gator:log Hookup Guide

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Contributors: santaimpersonator, Englandsaurus
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Introduction

Note: The gator:log will NOT function properly when used with the original gator:bit. Users should use the updated gator:bit (v2) with the gator:log for it to operate properly.

Most of you probably have done a science experiment that required data of some sort to be recorded...

SparkFun gator:log - micro:bit Accessory Board

SparkFun gator:log - micro:bit Accessory Board

DEV-15270
$13.95

The gator:log is the perfect data logging tool for your next experiment. With the automation of the data collection process, gone are the days of rushing around with a pen and composition notebook to simultaneously record data and your observations. Now, you only need to sit back and observe your experiment (or just wait for it to complete, if no observations are necessary).

The gator:log allows a student(s) to focus more on the experiment than watching a thermometer or sensor readout. Additionally, the micro:bit can still be used to provide a graphical display for observing changes in data, when a sensor readout is required. If tied in conjunction with the gator:RTC, stop watches on time based experiments can become a thing of the past too (with the added benefit of more accurate timing results)!

This tutorial will show you how to get started using this gator:log with the gator:bit (v2) in the micro:bit development environment.

Required Materials

Note: The gator:log will NOT function properly when used with the original gator:bit. Users should use the updated gator:bit (v2) with the gator:log for it to operate properly.

To get started, you'll need a micro:bit to control everything. Each of the products below includes a micro:bit, but the kit and bundle also include some additional accessories that you may want as well.

micro:bit Board

DEV-14208
10 Retired

micro:bit Go Bundle

DEV-14336
18 Retired

SparkFun Inventor's Kit for micro:bit

KIT-15228
2 Retired

To easily use the gator board ecosystem, a gator:bit (v2) will help breakout the necessary pins and you will also need alligator and/or banana cables to connect the gator:bit to the gator:log.

Alligator Test Leads - Multicolored (10 Pack)

Alligator Test Leads - Multicolored (10 Pack)

PRT-12978
$3.50
4
SparkFun gator:bit v2.0 - micro:bit Carrier Board

SparkFun gator:bit v2.0 - micro:bit Carrier Board

DEV-15162
$21.50
2
Banana to Banana Cable - Right Angle

Banana to Banana Cable - Right Angle

CAB-15368
$4.95 $4.46
1

(*These banana cables have a special diameter on the attachment points designed specifically for use with the micro:bit ecosystem. They may or may not be compatible with the banana cables used on your test equipment.)

Additionally, users will also need a µSD card and a µSD USB reader:

microSD USB Reader

microSD USB Reader

COM-13004
$5.50
12
microSD Card with Adapter - 32GB (Class 10)

microSD Card with Adapter - 32GB (Class 10)

COM-14832
$26.95
1
microSD Card - 1GB (Class 4)

microSD Card - 1GB (Class 4)

COM-15107
$5.50

microSD Card with Adapter - 16GB (Class 10)

COM-13833
6 Retired

You may already have some of these materials, so feel free to modify your cart as necessary.

Suggested Reading

The gator:log is pretty straight forward to use in application. However, you may find the following concepts useful along the way.

Serial Communication

Asynchronous serial communication concepts: packets, signal levels, baud rates, UARTs and more!

Serial Terminal Basics

This tutorial will show you how to communicate with your serial devices using a variety of terminal emulator applications.

OpenLog Hookup Guide

An introduction to working with the OpenLog data logger.

SparkFun gator:RTC Hookup Guide

The gator:RTC is an I2C based, real-time clock (RTC) for keeping time while your micro:bit isn't powered. This tutorial will get you started using the gator:RTC with the micro:bit platform.

If you aren't familiar with the micro:bit, we recommend reading here for an overview.

We would also recommend taking a look at the following tutorials if you aren't familiar with them.

Getting Started with the micro:bit

The BBC micro:bit is a compact, powerful programming tool that requires no software installation. Read on to learn how to use it YOUR way!

How to Load MicroPython on a Microcontroller Board

This tutorial will show you how to load the MicroPython interpreter onto a variety of development boards.

SparkFun gator:bit v2 Hookup Guide

The gator:bit v2 is a breakout board for the BBC micro:bit. The gator:bit exposes almost every pin on the micro:bit to clippable pad with circuit protection. It also has as built-in addressable LEDs and a built-in buzzer.