Prerequisites

This project assumes you are familiar with the basic functionality of Unity. You should also review the following before moving on:

• Getting Started Kit - Advanced Lessons - Data Interval

Setup

Attach your Light Phidget to your VINT Hub as shown:

Configure Unity

In order to use Phidgets with Unity, you have to configure your project. Follow the instructions below.

Create Environment

Now that your project is configured, you can create your environment.

Write Code (C#)

Copy the code below into your LightController file.

  
using UnityEngine;
using Phidget22;

public class LightController : MonoBehaviour
{
    public Light myLight;
    public bool useRealLight = false;
    public float maxRoomIlluminance = 50.0f; //this will vary based on your room, try modifying it in the editor window
    LightSensor lightSensor;

    // Start is called before the first frame update
    void Start()
    {
        //Create
        myLight = GetComponent<Light>();
        lightSensor = new LightSensor();

        //Open
        lightSensor.Open(1000);

        //Set data interval to minimum | This will increase the data rate fromthe sensor and allow for smoother transitions
        lightSensor.DataInterval = lightSensor.MinDataInterval;
    }

    // Update is called once per frame
    void Update()
    {
        //Use your Phidgets
        if(useRealLight){
            myLight.intensity = ((float)lightSensor.Illuminance/maxRoomIlluminance)/8.0f; //max light intensity is 8.0
        }
    }

    //Required for Unity and Phidgets
    private void OnApplicationQuit()
    {
        lightSensor.Close();
        lightSensor.Dispose();
    }
}
  

Run Your Program

Make sure to toggle the Use Real Light button in your simulator as shown in the video above. Try modifying the amount of light hitting your Light Phidget by covering it with your hand or shining a flashlight on it. You will see the light in your scene increase and decrease accordingly!

Code Review

When using the Light Phidget, it's important to set the data interval to the minimum as shown in the code above. This will ensure your sensor is as responsive as possible.

Practice

1. Try adding this functionality to another project. Real lighting can make your project incredibly immersive!