Introduction to Arduino:
The Arduino is a fantastic way to learn how to code. I have created this guide to take you through the basics and hopefully help you learn to write code for Arduino, fast.
Here is the documentation What is Arduino? from the official Arduino website.
Arduino makes working with microcontrollers really simple to do. What is a microcontroller? The image below is an Arduino Uno which uses the Atmega328p microcontroller. Before, you would have a project idea, then you would build it on a printed circuit board (PCB), soldering every single component. Imagine the effort you go to, to build an entire project only to find that it didn’t work correctly. Arduino enables us to test our projects thoroughly before soldering all the components to a PCB.
The Arduino Uno:
Below is the Arduino Uno it uses the ATmega328p microcontroller and gives you a host of inputs and outputs to hook up all kinds of sensors and components on a single convenient board, making projects simple, fast, and fun without any soldering or PCB’s. Infact if you damage the microcontroller chip, you can simply pull it from the Arduino board, and replace it.
Installing the Arduino Intergrated Development Environment (IDE)
To program the Arduino, you need the Intergrated Development Environment otherwise known as the Arduino IDE. This is easily installed to your computer by downloading the software from the Official Arduino website here Arduino and installing it.
In this installation guide I will walk you through the Windows install process step-by-step, but you can use the Arduino IDE on all operating system types. The installation is straight forward, you just need to select your OS, download the program and then run the executable. You will be prompted to agree to the terms of service, create a default location for Arduino files to be created, and if you’re new to Arduino it’s wise to just accept the defaults settings from this point onwards.
If your Board is not Recognized:
If your computer does not recognize the Arduino board, you may need to update or install drivers. The first place to look is in the device manager. If there is a Yellow Exclamation mark next to a device under Other Devices, then this is clear indicator drivers are missing and need installing or updating.
After the installation is complete, plug the Arduino board into your computer using the blue USB cable supplied with the Arduino. Hopefully your system recognized the Arduino board and you’re now ready to start programming. If this isn’t the case, follow the steps below.
First Look at the IDE:
Once the Arduino IDE is installed and your computer recognizes the Arduino board, you’re ready to start coding your first project. Open your Arduino IDE program.
In the IDE select Tools scroll down to Board: make sure its set to “Arduino/Genuino Uno”
Just below is Port, select the COM port your Arduino board is connected to.
Verify your Code:
The image below highlights the Verify icon. This is how to test your code has no errors before you upload it to the board.
Upload your Code:
In the image below we have highlighted the upload icon. This is how you compile and upload your code to the Arduino board.
Serial Monitor:
The image below, the Serial Monitor icon is highlighted on the top right-hand side. Data is communicated between the Arduino and the serial monitor via the USB cable. We display print statements in the serial monitor for debugging our code this is really useful, the print statements can show us exactly where the code stops working correctly. Throughout this guide we shall be using print statements a lot to display all kinds of data.
As you can see in this image there are 2 main sections:
void setup(): Will execute any code within the block, once.void loop(): Will repeatedly continue to loop the code within the block.
Recommendations:
If you don’t already own any Arduino hardware, we highly recommend purchasing the Elegoo Super Starter Kit. This kit has everything you need to start programming with Arduino.
You can find out more about this kit here: Elegoo Super Starter Kit
Conclusion:
In this step-by-step guide, we’ve walked you through the installation process of the Arduino IDE, setting the stage for your exciting exploration of the Arduino world. You’re now equipped with the essential tools to bring your electronic dreams to life.
As you embark on your Arduino adventure, remember that experimentation is key to learning and creating. Don’t be afraid to tinker, test, and try new projects. The Arduino community is vast and supportive, with countless resources and project ideas to inspire you.
So, without further delay, plug in your Arduino board, fire up the IDE, and let your creativity flow. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced maker, the possibilities are endless. Welcome to the world of Arduino, where innovation and imagination collide. Happy tinkering!
If you have any questions, you can leave them below, or use the contact us page.
That’s All Folks!
