Our Learn to Solder Skill Badge Kit (the 2011 model is shown in Figure 3) has been used to teach thousands of people of all ages how to solder at Maker Faires across the country. It’s a simple, fun way to learn how to solder and also how to teach others to solder. After you build the one included in the box, you can order more from http://makershed.com and teach others how to solder.
- Blinking or Color Change LED
(Top left) This is an LED (Light-Emitting Diode) with a twist. Normal LEDs give off a single color, and keep shining as long as you give them power. Also, normal LEDs require a specific voltage to operate: don’t give it enough power, it won’t light at all; give it even a little too much, and you could burn it out.
This LED is different in both respects: it has three elements (red, green, and blue) that are under the control of a small integrated circuit (IC) embedded within the LED. The IC causes the elements to change color in a repeating pattern. Because the IC controls the voltage that it delivers to the individual color elements, it’s more tolerant of variations in the voltage you give it. For example, even though red LED color elements typically operate at around 2 volts, you’re able to use a 3 volt battery with the pin.
The 2012 model uses two self-blinking LEDs instead of one self-color changing RGB LED.
- CR1220 battery
(Lower left) This “coin cell” battery supplies power to the pin.
- Printed Circuit Board (PCB)
(Center) The 2011 Learn to Solder Skill Badge features a friendly robot. The 2012 model will also have a robot, every bit as friendly.
- Pin and clutch
(Top right) This is what holds the pin to your clothing.
- Battery holder
This keeps the battery on the PCB.