Embedded Programming

Arduino

Arduino is an open-source electronics platform based on easy-to-use hardware and software. Arduino boards are able to read inputs such as light on a sensor, and turn it into an output like activating a motor. By sending a set of instructions to the microcontroller on the board, you are able to control the Arduino to do what you want.

Why use Arduino?

  • Inexpensive

  • Cross-platform - Arduino IDE

  • Simple, clear programming environment

  • Open source and extensible software/hardware

    • Types of Arduino Boards

    There are several types of Arduino Boards, depending on your project, you can select from the various types of Arduino Boards that are available with different sizes and signals. Below are a few examples of the different types of Arduino boards out there.

    Arduino UNO

    I will be starting out with the Arduino UNO as it is one of the most popular Arduino boards out there. It has really good features and easy to use which makes it one of the best boards to start out with for beginners.

  • Reset Switch: This will restart any code that is loaded to the Arduino board

  • USB Connector: Used for powering up your Arduino and uploading sketches

  • Voltage Regulator: This controls the amount of voltage going into the Arduino board

  • Power Port: This is used for powering your Arduino with a power supply

  • Digital Pins: For connection purposes

  • TX/RX: Transmit and receive data indication LEDs

  • ATmega Microcontroller: This is the brains and is where the programs are stored

  • Analog Input Pins: These pins can read the signal from an analog sensor and convert it to digital

    • Arduino Software

    I will be using Arduino IDE to program my Arduino

    TinkerCAD

    Tinkercad Circuits allows anyone to virtually create and program Arduino projects without the need for physical hardware.

    Circuits