Introduction: Backpack #6: UniversalConnector

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SPIKE Prime Backpacks are extensions for LEGO Education SPIKE Prime.

The Universal Connector Backpack is basically a wired backpack that converts the SPIKE Prime connectors to generic male header pins. This backpack is super useful if you are planning to make your own backpacks for other micro-controllers.

We also have a Camera Backpack that lets you integrate image processing and machine vision, a Grove Sensor Backpack that allows you to connect cool sensors, a Pyboard Backpack that lets you connect to the WiFi, a Micro:bit Backpack that enables radio communication, and a Breadboard Backpack that you can use to prototype circuits.

Supplies

Universal Connector Board (link)

Paper Case Design (link)

Header pins

1 - 1x8 Male 1.27 header pins (link)

1 - 1x6 Male header pins (link)

Lego pieces:

2 - 1x3 beams

1 - 1x7 beam

6 - pegs

1- SPIKE Distance Sensor Connector

BW Printer / Color Printer(Optional)

X-acto knife/ Scissors/ Laser Cutter(Optional)

Step 1: Printing Breakout PCB

Go to the Google Drive folder and download "generic breakout manufacturing version 2.fzz" file. There are many companies that can manufacture PCBs for you. Find the one that is nearby.

OR,

If you have access to a makerspace and you can use Desktop PCB Milling Machine by Bantam Tool download "generic breakout othermill version 2.fzz" and print them.

OR,

You can do it at your home. Follow the instructions here. https://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-PCB-Etching.... If you want to open the file go to https://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-PCB-Etching.... and download/install Fritzing on your computer and open the design on your computer.

Step 2: Soldering Header Pins on Breakout PCB

Solder header pins as shown in the picture. Learn more about soldering here.

Step 3: Plugging Breakout PCB to SPIKE Distance Sensor Connector

Unscrew the SPIKE Distance Sensor from the Connector and plug in the Breakout PCB. Be careful while plugging in, the headers are small.

Step 4: Casing With Paper

Download the paper case folder from Google Drive and print the "universalPaperBackpackTemplate.pdf".

If you have access to laser cutter, use the .svg file to cut and score the paper for folding.

You can also use X-acto knife and scissors to achieve this.

Fold the paper case on the connector.

Step 5: Securing the Paper Case

Use the LEGO beams to secure the paper case.