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EST. 1998
The Coolest Things You Can Buy

MaKey MaKey

Everyday Invention Kit
EXCLUSIVE
305
No.11 - Top 50

MaKey MaKey

Everyday Invention Kit

$61.19
 
In Stock


more info

simple setup

A basic controller configuration

An incredible introduction to circuits and controls, the MaKey MaKey is about as hands-on as inventing gets. Designed by two very clever chaps in the US, and originally launched through Kickstarter, we’re super excited to bring you this UK exclusive.

Basically, MaKey MaKey allows you to create computer controllers from everyday items. All you need is the kit, some crocodile clips and an assortment of objects. Any material that will conduct even a slight electrical current will work as a control surface; from Play-Doh to pencils, from grapes to Grandma.

pencil animation

You can even draw a pencil controller

Simply load up a program – games, instruments, word processors, you name it – and plug in the MaKey MaKey board; then it’s just a case of deciding what does what. You can control Pac-Man from a pencil drawing, or turn a staircase into a piano.

The best thing about MaKey MaKey is its simplicity. Rather than requiring hours of setup and study, you can open the box and be experimenting immediately. Making it perfect for budding boffins, expert engineers and everyone in between.

Crocodile clip the internet to your world
Please Note:
  • Requires a computer with USB access
  • Bananas, grandmas, Play-Doh and macaroni not included
Product Features:
  • Turn everyday objects into touchpads and combine them with the internet. It's a invention kit for beginners and experts doing art, engineering and everything inbetween:
  • Compatible with over 5 million software apps, including Tetris
  • Try using Makey Makey with Powerpoint, Photobooth, Music Players, Video Players (including YouTube), Garage Band
  • Conductive with most fruits and vegetables, marshmallows, gummy sweets, macaroni and cheese, cupcakes, shrimp, plants, Play-Doh, people (connect one person to ground, and another to an input, and you can trigger sounds when they high-five), graphite from a pencil (make thick, dark lines, and be sure to draw on a smooth surface), foil and other metal objects, coins, magnets, nuts and bolts, forks and knives, or pots and pans
Contents:
  • MaKey MaKey board
  • 7x Crocodile clips
  • 6x Connection cables
  • USB cable
FAQ:

    Is it easy to use? Yes. Really all you have to do is alligator clip stuff together and surf the web to find a cool application.

    How many alligator clips will come with a Makey Makey? 7 alligator clips and 6 connector wires. Also 1 usb cable. No extra purchases necessary to get the thing to work.

    How many keys can be pressed at once with a Makey Makey? Makey Makey can press as many keys as your keyboard allows at once, which is 6. You can use up to 18 in a session (6 on the front of MaKey MaKey and 12 on the back), but only 6 can be held down simultaneously.

    What operating systems does Makey Makey run on? Windows, Mac OSX and Linux (it has not been tested with every available flavour of Linux).

    Can the Makey Makey trigger any keys on the keyboard? Yes, this is configurable in a settings.h file in the MaKey MaKey sketch in the Arduino IDE.

    Can I use multiple Makey Makeys at once on 1 computer? Yes! You can plug in two or more at once and create an orchestra of Makey Makeys! (tested with up to 3, but could work for more)

    How do I use the back of the MaKey MaKey? The connections on the back of the MaKey MaKey are what's called "female header." They're rows of little sockets, designed for wires to stick into. One easy way to use them is with connector wires (a.k.a. jumper wires), which are wires with little pins on either end that stick nicely into the header. These come in the kit. You can also buy them separately, but be sure to get the male/male ones. Jumpers are convenient, but you can also plug regular wire into the header. Solid core wire is best, and you will need wire strippers to remove the insulation from the ends of the wire. You can also find clever ways to use stuff you already have- for example, we've found that both paper clips and safety pins work great for this purpose!

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Customer Reviews

This was pretty much the only present my 15 year old asked for this year and although so far only used on Christmas Day it did provide quite a bit of entertainment. It must have been easy to understand as no instructions were read and he just got on plugging in bits of fruit and Quality Street- though soft centres should be avoided as they ooze! As with most firebox gifts this is perfect for the gadgety geek in the family!
Collins, Yorkshire - 3rd January 2013
Firebox says: That sounds awesome! All of us here at Firebox hope it contributed to a fantastic Christmas! :)
I purchased this item and waited in anticipation to crack on and make some interesting creations only to find that it wasn't what it seemed! Very easy to set up and use although it isn't a full keyboard which is the impression that the video gives you! I'm very interested in finding out how they managed to type the words "I luv makey makey" on the mac when it only allows me to use the letters WASDFG!? This is a good gimmick but at £40 for a few wires and a circuit board I would expect a full alphabet and numbers 0-9!
Bograt, Essex - 2nd November 2012
Firebox says: Hi Bograt. It's true while WASDFG Is part of the Makey, its only a small part. You may find the following guide useful http://www.sparkfun.com/tutorials/378. However if problems carry on, please do get in touch and we'll see what we can do for you!
YES, WE SHIP TO the united states!