Arduino Tutorials - Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Paul McWhorter from TopTechBoy.com presents improved Arduino tutorials.
• Previous series was popular but needs updating due to:
  • Changes in hardware (more sensors and components available)
  • Changes in software (new IDE versions)
  • Improved production quality
  • Personal touch: switched from hot coffee to iced coffee during lessons.

Learning Objectives

• By the end of the session, beginners will have:
  • Written their first four Arduino programs.
  • Completed simple assignments based on what they've learned.

Getting Started with Arduino

Step 1: Order Your Hardware

• Recommended kit: Super Starter Kit Uno R3 by eLEGO.
  • Cost: $35
  • Includes Arduino and various components for projects.
• If you already have an Arduino, you can start immediately.

Step 2: Install the Software

• Visit: Arduino Download Page
• Download the latest version (example: Arduino 1.8.9).
  • Windows Installer for Windows XP and up.
• Installation Steps:
  • Click download, agree to terms, and complete the standard installation.

Setting Up Arduino Environment

• Open the Arduino IDE after installation.
• Connect the Arduino to your PC via USB; check for recognition sounds.

Writing Your First Program

Bare Minimum Example

• Navigate in IDE: File > Examples > Basic > Bare Minimum
• Essential Parts of Arduino Programs:
  1. void setup() - Runs once to initialize settings.
  2. void loop() - Runs continuously.

Initializing Pin 13

• Use pinMode(13, OUTPUT); in void setup() to set pin 13 as output.

Controlling the LED

• To turn on the LED (connected to pin 13):
  • Use digitalWrite(13, HIGH); in void loop();
• To turn off the LED:
  • Use digitalWrite(13, LOW); in void loop();

Blinking the LED

• To make the LED blink, use delay(1000); (for 1 second on, 1 second off).
  • Example Program:

    void loop() {
        digitalWrite(13, HIGH);
        delay(1000);
        digitalWrite(13, LOW);
        delay(1000);
    }
    

Experimenting with Blink Speed

• Adjust delay times to explore how fast the LED can blink while remaining visible:
  • Example settings: 500ms on/off for fast blink.

Assignments

1. Experiment with different blink speeds to see the fastest perceivable blink.
2. Share results in comments.

Conclusion

• Paul encourages viewers to engage with the content by:
  • Liking the video
  • Subscribing to the channel
  • Sharing experiences in the comments.

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