Working with microcontrollers doesn’t have to be slow or clunky. Froth is a new (and weird!) experimental programming language being developed at NYU’s ITP. Based on one of the first interactive programming languages of the 70’s, Froth is a modern take on a stack-based, interpreted embedded language.
In this workshop, we’ll start with a bit of esoteric computer language history and then do a whirlwind tour of Froth’s syntax. Once we’ve warmed up, we’ll get a feel for what a truly discursive and device-first language feels like, by using Froth to interactively program a game on a custom breakout board with an LED array, buttons, and encoders.
You will be amongst the first ever users of Froth. If you enjoy strange or nostalgic computation, mind-benders, and thinking about how we relate to the devices around us, this workshop is for you.
In order to really enjoy this workshop, you would benefit from:
- Having some familiarity with programming microcontrollers. Arduino is fine.
- Knowing the basics of how a microcontroller works (it has pins, what serial means, etc.).
- Having a good grasp on programming fundamentals (you’ve worked in C, Python, JS, etc. before).
Technical reqs (or, what laptop to bring along):
- Froth has a plugin for VSCode we will be using, which will make your life significantly easier. VSCode is highly suggested.
- Froth is being developed in MacOS. Therefore, Macs (hopefully up to date), are ideal.
- If you work with Linux or another Posix-like system, please message me and I can work with you to make sure the system is compatible with your unit.
- Unfortunately, Windows is not supported at the moment.
This is a masks optional workshop.
As with all NYC Resistor events, this class is 18+ and governed by our Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct, as well as accessibility information, can be found at www.nycresistor.com/participate/.
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