Video 6: Understanding GPIO Inputs, Pull Up and Pull Down Resistors

Join Paul McWhorter in this comprehensive tutorial as he explains the importance of pull-up and pull-down resistors in microcontroller circuits, demonstrating practical implementations on both Raspberry Pi platforms for GPIO input handling.

  1. GPIO Input Basics: Learn how to read digital inputs from GPIO pins on microcontroller platforms.

  2. Circuit Setup: Follow along as Paul demonstrates the physical setup of circuits with push button switches, resistors, and microcontroller boards.

  3. GPIO Pin Configuration: Understand how to configure GPIO pins for input mode and read input values in Python (for Raspberry Pi) code.

  4. Preventing Floating Inputs: Discover why it’s crucial to avoid floating inputs and how pull-up or pull-down resistors can stabilize input readings.

  5. Pull-Up Resistor: Ensures a known logic level when the switch is open by connecting the input pin to a high voltage through a resistor.

  6. Pull-Down Resistor: Ensures a known logic level when the switch is open by connecting the input pin to ground through a resistor.

  7. Functionality: Demonstrates how the circuit behaves with the switch open and closed, affecting the logic level read by the input pin.

  8. Implementation: Provides step-by-step instructions on physically setting up the circuit on a breadboard using wires, a push button switch, a resistor, and a microcontroller board.

  9. Homework Assignment: Encourages viewers to practice controlling an LED with a push button switch and sharing their solutions on YouTube, linking back to the tutorial video.

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Homework Solution