SparkFun's New LogicBlocks Kit Enriches Computer Science Education

New product designed to help beginners learn how to use digital logic

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Oct 29, 2012, 02:09 ET

BOULDER, Colo., Oct. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- SparkFun Electronics (http://www.sparkfun.com), a provider of parts, knowledge and passion for electronics creation, is pleased to announce the release of the LogicBlocks Kit (https://www.sparkfun.com/products/11006) - a new educational product designed to help students and beginners explore the obscure concept of digital logic. LogicBlocks represents the first in a line of upcoming products the SparkFun Department of Education (http://www.learn.sparkfun.com) will introduce as a way of enhancing computer science education. These new products enable more creativity while teaching the fundamental aspects of understanding technology.

"The concept for the LogicBlocks came out of the frustration of learning digital logic without some form of hands-on activity," said Lindsay Levkoff, SparkFun director of education. "The different sequences of the blocks' orientations allow students to actually see the logic rather than just having it be a conceptual building block."

Digital logic is the basis for digital computing and is one of the driving forces behind the world of electronics. It is essential in understanding how circuits and hardware communicate within a computer. This kit includes various blocks (such as Input, AND, OR, and NOT blocks) that snap together to create different strings of logic. Based on how the user assembles the LogicBlocks, they can see how different choices affect the output. The kit is easy to assemble and requires no soldering.

"LogicBlocks is perfect for beginners who want to explore working with digital logic," said Jim Lindblom, SparkFun engineer and LogicBlock designer. "Users will experiment using digital logic and various inputs and outputs to get a better understanding of one of the central tenets of DIY electronics."

The LogicBlocks Kit includes all the parts you need to start exploring digital logic and is priced at $39.95. For more information, please visit (www.sparkfun.com/LogicBlocks). For more information about SparkFun's Department of Education, please visit (http://www.learn.sparkfun.com) and get access to free curriculum, tutorials and more information about the company's upcoming class schedule. Also, feel free to contact [email protected] for any questions about the program.

About SparkFun Electronics

Founded in 2003, SparkFun shares its passion by providing parts, knowledge, and innovation for those looking to explore the world of embedded electronics. It helps anyone discover their inner inventor and enables individuals to create their own electronics projects.

SparkFun currently offers more than 1,800 products, ranging from simple components, like capacitors and resistors, to GPS units and Bluetooth modules. The company employs 135 people and is based in Boulder, Colorado.

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Press Contact:
Jeremy Douglas
Catapult PR-IR
303-581-7760 ext. 16
[email protected]

SOURCE SparkFun Electronics