Chapter 3. Getting Started with Connect IQ
It’s time to learn how to build an app. The Connect IQ SDK lets you write code for Garmin wearables with a minimum of fuss and few lines of code. With starting templates for four kinds of apps, plenty of sample code, and a programming language (Monkey C) that is similar to Java, JavaScript, PHP, Ruby, and Python, you’ll be up and running quickly. You’ll need to configure some software first, and (optionally) get your hands on some hardware. You can download the free SDK from the Garmin website.
What You’ll Need
- Garmin wearable
-
This is optional. The Connect IQ SDK includes a simulator that can run any code you develop. However, there’s no substitute for testing on a real device. You can find a list of compatible devices at the Garmin Developer site.
- ANT+ connectivity
-
In Chapter 4, you’ll learn how to go beyond this chapter’s simple example. One of the projects shows how a Garmin wearable can connect to an external sensor using the ANT+ wireless protocol.
If you don’t have a compatible device with Connect IQ that supports the Temperature profile, you’ll need to run the app in the simulator with a Garmin ANT+ USB adapter (Garmin part number 010-01058-00, available from a variety of resellers including Garmin, Walmart, and Amazon).
The temperature sensor you’ll use is the Garmin tempe sensor (part number 010-11092-30).
- Computer
-
The Connect IQ SDK will run on a Windows or Mac computer.
You’ll need one USB 2.0 or 3.0 port. If you are ...
Get Wearable Programming for the Active Lifestyle now with the O’Reilly learning platform.
O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.
