Where do I start learning to make electronics? Arduino?

I am working on a computer science minor in school and I have used processing before, I have been told Arduino is a good route for programming electronics.  I am also interested in making simple electronics projects independent of Arduino as well.

Where do I start learning to make electronics?  Also how much knowledge of electronics should I have before jumping into an Arduino project?

Thanks,

Ford

Comments

[bassbindevil]

Download some electronics magazine back issues if it's legal on your planet. Elektor, Everyday Practical Electronics (EPE), Nuts & Volts, Circuit Cellar. Attempting to build a project from magazine plans will teach you a lot.

Get a copy of "The Art Of Electronics"; PDFs can be found online, allegedly.

If you have a need for a custom LED flashlight or bike light, that's a project that involves microcontrollers and electronics. http://budgetlightforum.com/node/799

[rickharris]

Learning electronics and how to use a microprocessor are associated but different things. it's fairly easy to use the microprocessor with little electronics knowledge if you can program.

There are lots of basic books out there I would try to find one that combines theory with practical projects so you don;t get bored - see Amazon.

As for Microprocessors. Well Parallax documentation is fairly good as is

http://www.picaxe.com/Getting-Started/PICAXE-Manuals/

These are free PDF files and the principles apply to most microprocessors for interfacing. Written for school users they are at the right level for beginners.

[iceng]

I would advise you to start by using the basic stamp microprocessor here.

Lots easier to use and more fun.

Now that i have done both, but stay away the propeller uP.

A