Arduino For Beginners: How to get started with your arduino, including Arduino basics, Arduino tips and tricks, Arduino projects and more! by Savasgard Erik

Author:Savasgard, Erik [Savasgard, Erik]
Language: eng
Format: azw3, epub
Published: 2016-02-23T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 4. Arduino Basics: A Look at the Software

Studying Arduino software is the next lesson to study after learning the hardware. Learning about the software is as important as complex coding is needed to generate desired results in building a project. Guides can help you get familiarized with the software.

In this section, you’ll learn about:

- Arduino software in general.

- Software installation procedures.

- Connecting the hardware with the software.

- Loading Codes to Arduino.

- Coding fundamentals.

Getting to Know Arduino Software Arduino software is the program used for coding and transferring codes to the hardware. Different types of Arduino software are available and compatible with major operating systems. The latest version is Arduino 1.6.4., an opensource program with easy to use interface once installed, with versions compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux. Although installation procedures across operating system types are different, users must follow a standard rule in uploading the programmed code.

The Installation Process

The general rule is installing the Arduino software first before using the Arduino PCB. Installation procedures are as follows: 1. Look and select Arduino board from online shops. Aside from the board, you must also get a USB cable to connect the board to the computer. Different Arduino models come with their compatible USB cables. Be mindful of the cable required by reading the model’s description.

2. Download the program compatible with your computer’s operating system. The program is available at Arduino’s website, with the standard Arduino software listed first being the most recommended platform to use.

Other program options are available, but they may require special installation procedures. Furthermore, using another program tends to void your Arduino’s warranty. Verify these procedures first and see the

instance when your product’s warranty may be voided.

3. Extract and install the downloaded program. 4. Plug the board to the computer using the USB cable after installation. Some Arduinos like Uno and Mega obtain power through USB connection. These boards should power up immediately once plugged to a computer.

Some models supporting external and USB power sources should be configured properly to receive electricity through USB cable. A good example is Diecimila, which supports two types of electricity sources. Set the jumper, the switch-like device discussed in the previous chapter, to USB for now as its power source. Once configured, plug the board to the computer. Its LED will light up once electricity flows throughout the circuitry.

5. Install Arduino drivers. Just like external devices, your computer’s operating system must install Arduino’s driver first before it can receive codes. The board works like a plug and play device. The operating system

will detect the new device once plugged in and install its drivers. However, this procedure may fail since you need to configure the driver manually. Once drivers failed to install, open Device Manager and look at Ports (COM & LPT). Your Arduino should be listed under this group as“Arduino (Model) (COMxx)”. If not listed, search under“Other Devices” and look for “Unknown Device”. It means your computer detected the newly plugged device, but it can’t identify the new component correctly due to the lack of pre-installed drivers.

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