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14. Interface and Application Programming: Elle, Kathryn

Group assignment:

  • Compare as many tool options as possible.
  • Document your work on the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned.

We got our idea of comparing two from Richard Shan and Conner Cruz.

Python(Tkinter) vs. JavaScript + HTML Web App

Feature Python(Tkinter) JavaScript + HTML Web App
Type Desktop GUI framework Browser-based UI (wed development)
Programming Style Text-based Python scripting Web technologies (HTML, CSS, JS)
Best For Simple desktop apps, local serial communication Web-based dashboards, Wi-Fi-enabled control
Hardware Integration Strong with serial (e.g., Arduino, sensors) Strong with Bluetooth/Wi-Fi devices (e.g., ESP32, Arduino)
Ease of Use Moderate; Python is readable and simple Requires web dev knowledge, but highly flexible
Offline Use Yes Can be used offline with local files or servers

Python (Tkinter)

Pros:

  • Easy to make buttons and labels for your app
  • Can talk to your board using a USB cable
  • Good for quick testing on a computer
  • Can read and show sensor data in real time

Cons:

  • Only works on computers (not phones or tablets)
  • The design looks old and simple
  • Not very fancy or modern-looking without extra tools

JavaScript + HTML Web App

Pros:

  • Works on phones, tablets, and computers
  • You can design it however you want with colors and styles
  • Can send data to/from your board using Wi-Fi
  • No need to install anything—just open in a browser

Cons:

  • You have to learn more than one language (HTML, CSS, JS)
  • Needs extra steps to set up (like a local server)
  • Harder to get started if you’re new to web stuff

Summary:

  • Use Python + Tkinter if:

~ You want a simple app on your computer that talks to your board using a USB cable (like controlling lights or reading sensors).

  • Use JavaScript + HTML if:

~ You want a web app that works on your phone or computer and talks to your board over Wi-Fi (like a remote control).

Below is the conversation between chatGPT: chat conversation


Last update: May 25, 2025