Designed for both the student and hobbyist, this book is an introduction to the theory and practice of electronics including advances in microcontrollers, sensors, and wireless communication. Each chapter contains a brief lab to demonstrate the topic covered then moves on to the final part which combines the knowledge mastered by building a programmable robot (Arduino and Netduino). The companion disc includes videos of the labs, soldering skills, and code samples for programming of the robot[Companion disc files are available for download with Amazon proof of purchase by writing to the publisher at [email protected]]. Covering both the theory and its practical application, this text leads the reader through the basic science concepts underlying electronics, building basic circuits, learning the roles of the components, the application of digital theory, and the possibilities for innovation by combining sensors, motors, and microcontrollers. The book includes appendices on mathematics for electronics, a timeline of electronics innovation, careers in electronics, and a glossary. Features: +Includes a companion disc with eighteen video tutorials on currents, soldering, power supply, resistors, decoder circuits, and more [Companion disc files are available for download with Amazon proof of purchase by writing to the publisher at [email protected]] +Leads the reader through an introductory understanding of electronics with simple labs and then progressing to the construction of a microcontroller-driven robot using open source software and hardware (Netduino and Arduino versions) +Presents theoretical concepts in a conversational tone, followed by hands-on labs to engage readers by presenting practical applications Brief Table of Contents: 1: The Theory Behind Electricity. 2: How Electricity Works. 3: Currents and Circuits. 4: Tools of the Trade. 5: Shop Setup and Safety. 6: Switches. 7: Resistors. 8: Capacitors. 9: Diodes. 10: Transistors. 11: Power Sources and Power Supplies. 12: Soldering. 13: Constructing a Power Supply. 14: Digital Theory. 15: Integrated Circuits. 16: Memory. 17: Microcontrollers. 18: Motors and Controllers. 19: Sensors. 20: Electronic Communication. 21A: Building Your Robot-Arduino. 21B: Building Your Robot-Netduino. 22A: Getting Your Robot Moving. 22B: Getting Your Robot Moving. 23A: Arduino: Adding Sensors to Your Robot. 23B: Netduino: Adding Sensors to Your Robot. Appendix A: Glossary. Appendix B: Timeline of Electronics. Appendix C: Mathematics for Electronics. Appendix D: Careers in Electronics. Appendix E: Resources. Appendix F: Answers for Odd-Numbered Exercises. Appendix G: Lab Video Directory. Index.