fig nitionwebFIGnition is distributed as a kit consisting of a small, simple PCB and a set of components including an 8-bit 20 MHz ATmega328 microcontroller, a 512KB flash memory chip, and an 8KB RAM device.
Designed for beginners, FIGnition comes pre-loaded with the Forth programming language, providing a simple and efficient environment for learning and running computer code interactively. Power is supplied via a USB port, and the board connects to a PAL or NTSC TV, displaying 25x24 text or 160x160-bit graphics. No external keyboard or mouse is required for operation: all commands and programming can be easily executed using the included eight-key keypad.
The RS FIGnition inFUZE board comes with pre-programmed game programs and utilities on the flash memory chip. The analog data logging feature will be very useful for the education sector, as it will allow students to connect simple sensors and graphically display the measurements. The source code is fully visible, allowing students to experiment or modify the existing code before creating their own.
Complete assembly instructions and tutorials are available on the FIGnition website. The user community provides additional information through an existing forum where other FIGnition programmers can share their experiences.
Requiring only basic peripherals, the FIGnition Infuze is a simple and low-cost option for anyone wanting to understand the fundamentals of computing. Julian Skidmore was inspired to create FIGnition by the first generation of 8-bit computers, such as the Sinclair ZX80, which provided the first experience for many of today's electronics engineers.
“Building FIGnition InFUZE from scratch is a great, interactive way for young people to get their first experience with how computer hardware works,” commented Jonathan Boxall, Global Head of Semiconductors at RS Components. “Its price makes it very accessible, and it’s a valuable tool for educational projects. It’s one of many easy-to-use, open-source boards that provide a good introduction to computing that’s easy and fun for the engineers of the future.”

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