What is Jacdac?

Forward Education & Jacdac Technology

Overview

Forward Education provides K-12 STEM solutions designed to bridge the gap between computer science and real-world environmental issues. At the heart of our hardware ecosystem—most notably the Climate Action Kit and the Coding for Good kit—is Jacdac, a plug-and-play technology developed by Microsoft Research.

This article explains how Forward Education utilizes Jacdac to create a seamless, "no-fail" electronics experience for students and educators.

What is Jacdac?

Jacdac is an open-source hardware and software stack designed to make physical computing as easy as plugging in a USB device. It uses a unique 3-wire connector that carries power and data, allowing multiple sensors and actuators to be "daisy-chained" together.

Key Benefits of Jacdac:

• Plug-and-Play: Devices are automatically discovered by the coding environment (like Microsoft MakeCode) the moment they are connected. 

• Reversible Connectors: The cables can be plugged in either way, eliminating the risk of short circuits or incorrect wiring—a common frustration in traditional electronics. 

• Device Abstraction: Instead of managing complex pin numbers or I2C addresses, students interact with high-level "services" (e.g., "Light Sensor" or "Servo").

Forward Education Product Integration

Forward Education's products utilize the Jacdac ecosystem. Our kits allow students to build prototypes of green technologies, such as wind turbines, automated greenhouses, and solar trackers.

1. The Breakout Board (The Hub)

The centerpiece of our kits kit is the Breakout Board. It acts as the interface between the BBC micro:bit (the brain) and the various peripherals. It features multiple Jacdac ports, allowing students to expand their projects by simply clicking in new modules.

2. Jacdac-Enabled Sensors and Actuators

Forward Education has developed a suite of custom sensors and components that use the Jacdac protocol:

• Soil Moisture Sensor: Used in smart farming projects to monitor plant hydration.

• Solar Sensor: Measures light intensity for renewable energy models.

• Environment Sensors: Including Sonar (distance), Line Followers, and Sound sensors.

• Output Modules: High-intensity LEDs, water pumps, and servo motors for physical movement.

3. Software & Simulation

Because Jacdac is natively supported in Microsoft MakeCode, Forward Education users benefit from a "digital twin" experience. When a physical sensor is plugged into the kit, a virtual version of that sensor appears in the MakeCode simulator, allowing students to test their logic before even touching the hardware.

Why It Matters for the Classroom

By using Jacdac, Forward Education removes the "technical friction" of STEM education.

• Lower Barrier to Entry: Teachers without a background in electrical engineering can confidently lead lessons.

• Focus on Problem Solving: Since students aren't troubleshooting loose wires, they can spend more time on the Climate Action goals—ideating, prototyping, and refining solutions for the planet.

• Scalability: You can start with a simple LED project and scale up to a complex autonomous vehicle by just adding more Jacdac cables and modules.

Technical Specifications