Gallery: Tiny Toys That Make the Internet of Things as Easy as Lego
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SAM is a series of postage stamp-sized sensors and actuators that combine hardware and software with internet connectivity. It's yet another effort to get youngsters interested in coding and electronics.
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It promises access to the Internet of Things with no circuit design or coding experience required.
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Unlike LittleBits, which treats electronics components like Lego bricks to be snapped together, SAM modules are free-floating, standalone units outfitted with their own power source and wireless radio which can communicate with a PC-based app up to 45 feet away.
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The current lineup of modules includes eight inputs, including buttons and sliders as well as proximity, light, and temperature sensors; and five outputs, like motors and lights. One 8-year-old built a car capable of dodging obstacles using proximity sensors and a few motors.
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The SAM app includes a code view option that allows more advanced hackers to poke around under the hood and potentially expand the system’s capabilities.
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Unlike Lego Mindstorms, which SAM founder Joachim Horn says “is focused on men who want to build functional, and rather aggressive looking, robots,” SAM is a purposefully gender neutral solution for creatives and designers. The modules wireless capabilities free them from the confines of the workbench and allow for room-sized solutions.
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The project’s [Kickstarter](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1842650056/sam-the-ultimate-internet-connected-electronics-ki) has blown past it’s original goal and will run until October 29th with delivery expected in March of 2015.
