FAQ

Where and when can I get one?

You can order one now from JoyLabz. That's us. So you are buying directly from the inventors. They will also be available from other retailers, like Adafruit, SparkFun, or Makershed. Or you can make one yourself.

How much do they cost?

$49.99 plus shipping.

Is it easy to use?

Yes. Really all you have to do is alligator clip stuff together and surf the web to find a cool application.

How many alligator clips will come with a Makey Makey?

7 alligator clips and 6 connector wires. Also 1 usb cable. No extra purchases necessary to get the thing to work.

How many keys can be pressed at once with a Makey Makey?

Makey Makey can press as many keys as your keyboard allows at once, which is 6. You can use up to 18 in a session (6 on the front of MaKey MaKey and 12 on the back), but only 6 can be held down simultaneously.

What operating systems does Makey Makey run on?

Windows, Mac OSX and Linux (it has not been tested with every available flavor of Linux).

How do I change / edit the shipping address?

Email us right away at support@joylabz.com but we ship very fast so best to just put it into the system as you'd like it.

Can the Makey Makey trigger any keys on the keyboard?

Yes, this is configurable in a settings.h file in the MaKey MaKey sketch in the Arduino IDE.

When will it ship?

Usually same day, but within 24 hours. (Your Kickstarter order should have already shipped, if you don't have it contact support@joylabz.com)

What does the kit include?

FULL KIT - Works out of the Box. Includes: MaKey MaKey, USB Cable, 7 Alligator Clips, 6 connector wires, quick start guide, a colorful retail box, and online documentation.

Can I use multiple Makey Makeys at once on 1 computer?

Yes! You can plug in two or more at once and create an orchestra of Makey Makeys! (tested with up to 3, but could work for more)

How do I use the back of the MaKey MaKey?

The connections on the back of the MaKey MaKey are what's called "female header." They're rows of little sockets, designed for wires to stick into. One easy way to use them is with connector wires (a.k.a. jumper wires), which are wires with little pins on either end that stick nicely into the header. These come in the kit. You can also buy them separately, but be sure to get the male/male ones, like these: http://www.sparkfun.com/products/11026 Jumpers are convenient, but you can also plug regular wire into the header. Solid core wire is best, and you will need wire strippers to remove the insulation from the ends of the wire. You can also find clever ways to use stuff you already have- for example, we've found that both paper clips and safety pins work great for this purpose!

I want to make a MaKey MaKey derivative, compatible, or website. Can I?

The answer is yes, but you have to come up with your own name. You can't call it MaKey MaKey. That's our name. Find all the details in our Naming Guideline Document