This page contains answers to common questions from Supercharged Science families. Feel free to Contact Us if your question isn’t addressed here.
Q: How can I stay informed regarding updates for Brian’s classes?
A: The best way to stay informed is to subscribe to Brian’s Substack email list here.
Q: Can I use a Raspberry Pi computer for the coding class?
A: The 2024 – 2025 coding class (Unit 29) requires a Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040, no other kind of Raspberry Pi will work. Unit 29, “Coding the Arduino” requires an Arduino Uno R3.
Q: I already have a Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040, may I use it in the class?
A: As long as it is configured to run MicroPython, you can use an existing RP2040 board.
Q: Can I order kits if I live outside the United States?
A: Yes, FutureVision Research ships internationally, but only to countries with Supercharged Science families. If you aren’t seeing shipping options during checkout, please Contact Us.
Q: Will students be able to watch recordings of Brian’s classes?
A: Yes, all of Brian’s classes are recorded and available by the following morning. In fact, archives of Brian’s classes from previous school years are also available. The course “Electronics with Brian” is available under Unit 25. The course “Coding MicroPython with Brian is under Unit 29. The 2023 – 2024 course, “Coding the Arduino with Brian” is under Unit 28.
Q: Will the electronic parts in the Diamond program work for Brian’s classes?
A: No, most of the parts in the Diamond program won’t work with Brian’s classes. They are intended for other lessons. In order to have the correct parts, you need to the FutureVision Research kits or buy individual parts using the appropriate shopping list.
Q: Can I buy a kit from Amazon and use it with Brian’s classes?
A: No, there aren’t any kits on Amazon that provide the proper set of parts.
Q: Will students have to use a hot soldering iron?
A: Neither “Electronics with Brian”, “Coding MicroPython with Brian”, or “Coding the Arduino with Brian” contain any soldering projects. Any soldering projects will be scheduled separately.
Q: What is the starting age for Brian’s classes?
A: We’ve had students as young as seven join Brian’s electronics classes. However, students younger than 12 often need more direct supervision and help during class.
Q: I saw a notice that many electronic parts contain lead. Is that safe?
A: The risk of handling electronic parts is negligible when proper precautions are followed. According to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control, risks from lead occur mainly from putting substances in the mouth, not from touching the skin. We advise children to never put parts in their mouth, never to eat while working with electronics and to wash their hands with soap and water before doing anything else. All of us who work with electronics follow these guidelines.
https://dtsc.ca.gov/faq/can-lead-be-absorbed-through-the-skin/
I have a Raspberry Pi starter kit. Do I still need to buy the Adruino from Amazon?
Thank you, Maggie
Thank you for your question. Yes indeed, you will still need an Arduino Uno R3. Raspberry Pi’s are quite different.