EcoDuino - An Auto Planting Kit

Jargon buster

Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.

DC

DC means direct current, where electricity flows in one constant direction, as supplied by batteries, USB ports and many plug-pack power supplies. When a product specifies DC, it runs from a DC supply rather than mains AC, so you need to provide the correct voltage and polarity.

DS18B20

The DS18B20 is a common digital temperature sensor, often supplied in a waterproof stainless-steel probe, that sends its readings to a microcontroller over a 1-Wire connection. It is a typical choice for adding temperature data to environmental or water-monitoring projects.

IDE

Short for Integrated Development Environment, a program used to write, run and manage code. It matters because some learners prefer a traditional coding workspace instead of a guided notebook-style lesson.

potentiometer

A variable resistor usually turned with a knob or shaft to create an adjustable electrical signal. It is often used for inputs such as volume, brightness or position, so it helps beginners learn how a microcontroller reads changing values.