Hi everyone,
I’m currently evaluating M5Stack components (specifically the M5StickC Plus 1.1) for potential use in school-level STEM education. My goal is to verify a few key points and ensure the platform is both functional and student-friendly for early teens.
📘 Project Overview: Angle-Based LED Flasher
For initial testing, I'm using:
M5StickC Plus 1.1
Angle Unit (IMU sensor)
External LED
The idea is simple:
👉 As the device is tilted, the LED’s flashing rate changes, and the current rate is displayed on-screen.
With the right firmware, a connected LED and angle sensor should make this fully achievable. The Grove port makes sensor/LED integration easy, and the built-in screen is perfect for real-time feedback.
💻 Clarifying UIFlow & Output Features
✅ Is UIFlow online only?
UIFlow v1 is available in both online and offline modes (via downloadable desktop IDE).
UIFlow v2, at this point, is primarily online via https://uiflow2.m5stack.com.
You’ll need to use M5Burner to flash the correct firmware for either version.
⚙️ Is PWM or Output Control Supported?
PWM control (for blinking LED with variable timing) is not clearly exposed in UIFlow 2’s block environment as of now.
You may need to toggle GPIO pins manually or use UIFlow v1 for better output control using blocks.
Alternatively, UIFlow does allow Python-level customization if needed — but this might be a stretch for middle school use.
📺 Display Issues in Landscape Mode?
Yes, displaying values in landscape requires a bit of manual screen rotation.
Some values flicker unless refreshed properly; for stable display, use logic blocks to update only when the value changes significantly.
🧠 MicroPython vs Block Coding?
I completely agree that MicroPython or Arduino can feel too complex for early teens. That's why block-based programming like UIFlow is a far better starting point — especially in a school setting where time and experience may be limited.
🔬 Educational Perspective – From MITSDE
As a learner at MIT School of Distance Education (MITSDE), I’ve developed an appreciation for platforms that blend practical hardware use with real-world applications. MITSDE’s curriculum in technology and systems emphasizes:
Hands-on project building
Embedded systems basics
Logical thinking and block coding for beginners
This mindset fits perfectly with M5Stack’s mission — allowing students to explore real computing and electronics concepts in an engaging, approachable way.
🌟 Future Potential: If This Works Out…
Build a thermometer with ENV sensors
Light meters, timers, tilt-controlled games, sound alarms, etc.
All built using block code and plug-and-play modules — ideal for STEM labs
[https://mitsde.com/](link url)