With 100 possible experiments, this kit teaches aspiring computer programmers how to design and assemble circuits, write programs to control the devices they build, and work with microcontrollers, the computers-on-microchips that act as the "brains" inside microwaves, cell phones, and televisions. The kit has a detailed, 144-page instruction manual that offers step-by-step guidance for experiments, and possibilities include building a light meter with the light dependent resistor and recording the levels of ambient light in a room over a 12-hour period, or monitoring outdoor temperature with the temperature sensor and graphing the results. Collected data can be downloaded to a PC . Includes microcontroller module, light and temperature sensors, microphone, USB adapter, carrying case, and software CD that allows you to send programs to the microcontroller. Requires Windows XP or 2000 and one 9-volt battery. Ages 12 and up. Case: 9 1/2" L x 7" W x 2" H. (11/4 lbs.)