From the workbench

News

Teaching notes, project walkthroughs, and hands-on electronics guides from Gary and the Mr Circuit team.

53 posts Updated Jun 29, 2026
Battery, resistor, LED, and breadboard arranged to explain how a simple classroom circuit is powered
batteriesHow Batteries Work in Simple Student Circuits

Learn how batteries work in simple student circuits, from chemical energy and voltage to safe classroom use with LEDs, resistors, and breadboards.

Jun 29, 2026· 6 min read
Beginner digital electronics setup with a 555 timer chip on a breadboard and a simple LED timing circuit
555 timerWhat Is a 555 Timer? Simple Student Guide

Learn what a 555 timer is, what timing and oscillation mean, and how to teach this classic chip with simple beginner circuit...

Jun 29, 2026· 5 min read
Robot light sensor pointed at a dark line and a bright surface while the robot adjusts direction
light sensorHow a Light Sensor Works in a Robot

Learn how a light sensor works in a robot by measuring brightness or reflection and turning that signal into a classroom-friendly action.

Jun 29, 2026· 4 min read
Multimeter checking a broken connection on a simple classroom breadboard circuit
continuity testHow to Find an Open Circuit

Learn how to find an open circuit with a safe continuity and voltage-check routine teachers and beginners can use on breadboards, switches,...

Jun 29, 2026· 6 min read
Multimeter checking for a short circuit on a simple breadboard with a bypassed load
breadboardHow to Find a Short Circuit

Learn how to find a short circuit in a simple classroom circuit using a safe power-off routine, resistance checks, and targeted breadboard...

Jun 29, 2026· 6 min read
Digital multimeter measuring LED current in series with a simple classroom circuit
circuit safetyHow to Measure LED Current Safely

Learn how to measure LED current safely with a multimeter by placing the meter in series, using the correct jack, and protecting...

Jun 29, 2026· 5 min read
Digital multimeter measuring resistance of a resistor on a classroom workbench
digital multimeterHow to Measure Resistance With a Multimeter

Learn how to measure resistance with a multimeter using a simple power-off routine teachers and beginners can use for resistors and classroom...

Jun 29, 2026· 5 min read