Can I take this course without buying the kit?

Yes, there are three approaches to taking this class. You could just listen to the videos, read the assignments, and play with the interactive learning tools. The second option involves installing the Keil uVision integrated development environment on a Windows PC, and performing the lab assignments in simulation mode. The third option, which fully captures the essence of embedded systems, can be done by performing the lab assignments on a real system that you will purchase. This third option is required to pass the course and receive the certificate.

What does it mean for the display to be optional?

The final project will be a arcade-style game. We expect most students to not buy the optional display, but rather they will connect the microcontroller board to the PC. In this manner, the output of the handheld game will be displayed on a window of the PC. However, for about $10 plus shipping, you can order a small Nokia 5110 LCD display so your handheld game can be operated in a stand-alone fashion.

What does it mean for the Wifi module to be optional?

Chapter 16 will discuss the Internet of Things (IoT). We will show how to use a CC3100 booster pack to interface the LaunchPad to a wireless access point (AP). We expect most students to not buy the optional Wifi module. The starter code for Lab 16 will use the CC3100 and AP to retrieve weather and time data from the internet. Lab 16 will require you to write code that interacts with a Chapter 16 specific web page. Lab 16 will be a lot of fun. For a preview of how we used the CC3100 for our face-to-face class see Wireless connectivity.

Feel free to use information on this site for education purposes.