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Introduction to Arduino and Projects

Aug 4, 2024

Arduino Overview

What is Arduino?

  • Arduino refers to various concepts related to microcontrollers and development boards.

Definitions

  • Microcontroller: Integrated circuit functioning as a small computer capable of running simple software programs.
    • Low power consumption, can run on battery for days.
    • Processes data faster than humans.
  • Arduino (Company): Based in Italy, designs and sells easy-to-use circuit boards, known as Arduino boards.
  • Arduino Boards: Different types available, including:
    • Arduino Uno: Affordable and suitable for most projects (motors, lights, robotics).
    • More advanced boards available with additional features (Wi-Fi, Ethernet).
  • Open Source Hardware: Arduino’s designs are open-sourced, allowing 3rd party manufacturers to create compatible hardware (not called Arduino).

Arduino Shields

  • Additional circuit boards that plug into Arduino boards, expanding functionality.
  • Examples:
    • Motor and servo control shields (by Adafruit).
    • Communication shields (cell phone, MP3 player by Sparkfun).

Arduino Software Development Environment

  • Simplifies the programming process for beginners:
    • Historically complex with binary coding and custom hardware for uploads.
    • Now, just connect via USB and upload code.
  • Programming Language: Designed to configure Arduino hardware easily, simpler than traditional languages (e.g., Python).

Getting Started with Arduino Uno

  • Recommended for beginners; available cheaply, often in kits.

Familiarizing with Arduino Hardware

  • Microcontroller: ATMEGA AVR series by Atmel.
  • Crystal Resonator: Controls microcontroller speed.
  • USB Interface Chip: Enables uploading programs and communication for debugging.
  • Power Supply: Can use USB or external 9V DC power source (built-in voltage regulator to reduce to 5V).
  • Reset Button: For rebooting Arduino.

Pin Connectors

  • Power Pins: Supply 5V or 3.3V (limited current).
  • TX/RX Pins: For serial data communication (e.g., GPS, Bluetooth).
  • Digital I/O Pins (2-13): Can be configured for input or output using tristate logic.
  • Analog Input Pins (A0-A5): Measure continuous voltages (0-5V).
  • Pulse Width Modulated Pins: Output square waves, useful for controlling motor speed.

Setting Up Arduino Software

  1. Download from arduino.cc.
  2. Install drivers (accept all prompts).
  3. Connect Arduino via USB.
  4. Open Arduino IDE:
    • Select Arduino Uno under Tools > Boards.
    • Select correct COM port under Tools > Ports.

Example Projects

Analog Voltage Measurement

  1. Connect potentiometer as specified in example.
  2. Code structure:
    • Setup: Configure Arduino settings, e.g., serial communication.
    • Loop: Measure voltage, print to serial monitor (0-1023 range).
  3. Use Serial Plotter for visual representation of voltage changes.

LED Dimming Circuit

  1. Connect LED and potentiometer as specified.
  2. Code:
    • Define constants and variables for pins and values.
    • Read voltage, scale to 0-255 for PWM control of LED brightness.
  3. Observe PWM output using an oscilloscope.

Motor Control

  • Replace LED with motor control setup using PWM.
  • Arduino program can easily manage various tasks (robotics, sensors, etc.).

Conclusion

  • Arduino is versatile for beginners and has vast online resources for projects.

Sponsorship Mention

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