Abstract:

The programming language for microcontrollers is often difficult for many students pursuing careers such as mechatronics, electronics, microchips, and other related fields in engineering. This is because said subject implies both the usage of hardware and software, which requires knowledge in programming and electronics. This report aims to show how basic concepts for PICs (Programmable Integrated Circuit) can be taught easily and more intuitively for students of all careers alike—for example, the usage of inputs/outputs, information exchange, timers, and other advanced resources, such as internal and external interruptions. We aim to teach by problem-solving, in which students are put to the challenge to program simple things in both assembly and C. In this way they acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to aim for higher challenges and more complex programs, by implementing the use of advanced PIC resources, like timers, analog converters, and peripherals, which leads them to make systems like data acquisition systems, multimeter, solar trackers, etc…

Our teaching method consists of giving the students the basic knowledge and learning resources to start programming PICs for both assembly and C, after that, we give each student a challenge or problem that can be solved via a system that is controlled by a PIC, in this way we let students use their skills to the limit, making them improve and acquire more knowledge and skill in the process.

Keywords:

Programming language, microcontrollers, mechatronics, electronics, microchips, engineering, PICs (Programmable Integrated Circuit), problem-solving, learning.