Note: The expendable cost for this activity is very low because the main items—MaKey MaKeys, cables, alligator clips, joysticks, arcade buttons, craft knives (~$73 per project/group)—are expensive, yet fully reusable by taking apart the finished products.

Each group needs:

• MaKey MaKey, such as the standard/classic kit for $50 at SparkFun
• USB cable, such as a 6-foot USB mini-B cable for $4 at SparkFun; note that 1 USB cable comes with the above MaKey MaKey kit
• 12 alligator clip wires; such as a 10-pack for $3 from SparkFun; note that 8 alligator clips are included in the above MaKey MaKey kit
• 2 arcade buttons, 1 red, 1 green; such the 35 mm red and green concave momentary push buttons for $2 each at SparkFun
• joystick, such as a short handle arcade joystick for $15 at Sparkfun
• cardboard box; shoebox size is ideal
• X-Acto or craft knife
• strong tape, such as duct tape, packing tape or masking tape
• metal-edged ruler, for cutting and measuring
• pencil or marker
• laptop or computer with USB connection
• Arcade Controller Diagram (same as Figure 1)
• Wiring Schematics Handout

To share with the entire class:

• capability to show students a short video about how to take the buttons apart: Arcade Button Setup