To use this with the micro:bit, you will need to build a voltage divider with a 10kΩ resistor, as shown
in the wiring diagram for this experiment. The micro:bit cannot read a change in resistance, only a
change in voltage. A voltage divider allows you to translate a change in resistance to a
corresponding voltage value.
The voltage divider enables the use of resistance-based sensors like the photoresistor in a voltage-
based system. As you explore different sensors, you will find more resistance-based sensors that
only have two pins like the photoresistor. To use them with your micro:bit you will need to build a
voltage divider like the one in this experiment. To learn more about resistors in general, check out
our tutorial on resistors and also our tutorial on voltage dividers.
Note: Make sure you are using the 10kΩ resistor in your voltage divider with the sensors in this kit.
Otherwise you will get odd and inconsistent results.
Hardware Hookup
Ready to start hooking everything up? Check out the wiring diagram below to see how everything is
connected.
Polarized
Components
Payspecialattentiontothecomponent’smarkingsindicatinghowtoplaceiton
thebreadboard.Polarizedcomponentscanonlybeconnectedtoacircuitinone
direction.
Wiring Diagram for the Experiment
Having a hard time seeing the circuit? Click on the wiring diagram for a closer look.
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