Introduction to Arduino

Arduino Basics

• Open-source electronics platform using accessible hardware and software.
• Suited for hobbyists, makers, and interactive project enthusiasts.
• Converts inputs like sensor data or button presses into outputs such as activating motors or LEDs.
• Operates stand-alone or by communicating with computer software.
• Employs the Arduino IDE for code writing and board uploading.
• Gains popularity from its simplicity, accessibility, and community support.

Key Components of an Arduino Board

• Microcontroller: The Arduino's processing unit, typically an Atmel AVR chip, executing code.
• Digital I/O Pins: Configurable for digital signal input or output.
• Analog Input Pins: Converts analog sensor signals into digital values.
• Power Port: Supplies power to the board via USB or external sources.
• USB Port: Used for code upload and computer communication.
• Reset Button: Restarts the Arduino program execution.

Basic Arduino Programming Concepts

• Programming language is based on C/C++.
• An Arduino sketch is the name for code written for the board.
• setup(): Executes once at program start for initializing variables, pin modes, and libraries.
• loop(): Runs continuously after setup() for the primary program logic.
• Variables: Stores data and requires declaration with a data type.
• Data Types: Defines the kind of data a variable can store such as integers (int), floating-point numbers (float), characters (char), and boolean values (boolean).
• Operators: Symbols that perform operations on variables and values (e.g., +, -, *, /, =, ==, !=, <, >).
• Control Structures: Governs program flow using if, else, for, and while statements.
• Functions: Reusable code blocks for specific tasks.

Digital I/O

• Reads digital inputs (HIGH/LOW) and controls digital outputs.
• pinMode(pin, mode): Configures a pin as INPUT or OUTPUT.
• digitalWrite(pin, value): Sets a digital pin to HIGH or LOW.
• digitalRead(pin): Reads a pin's digital value (HIGH or LOW).
• Pull-up Resistors: Provide a defined state for input pins when not actively driven.

Analog I/O

• Reads analog signals from sensors.
• analogRead(pin): Reads analog values from a pin, ranging from 0-1023 with a 10-bit ADC.
• analogWrite(pin, value): Outputs an analog value using PWM (Pulse Width Modulation).

Sensor Integration

• Sensors measure physical quantities like temperature, light, pressure, and distance.
• Common sensors include DHT11 and LM35 (temperature), LDR (light), ultrasonic sensors (distance), and MPU6050 (accelerometer/gyroscope).

Integrating Sensors with Arduino

• Connect sensors by linking power, ground, and signal pins as specified.
• Read sensor data using analogRead() for analog sensors, or digitalRead() or library functions for digital sensors.
• Process raw sensor readings into meaningful units using calibration formulas.
• Implement sensor data to control outputs or inform decisions within the Arduino program.

Robotics Applications

• Arduino is frequently used in robotics for motor control, sensor readings, and robot behavior implementation.

Common Robotics Components

• Motors: Provides robot movement, including DC, servo, and stepper motors.
• Motor Drivers: Control motors using the Arduino because it cannot directly supply sufficient current.
• Encoders: Measure motor position or speed.
• Chassis: Forms the robot's frame or body.

Basic Robotic Behaviors

• Motor Control: Regulates motor speed and direction using Arduino and motor drivers.
• Sensor-Based Navigation: Uses sensors for robot navigation, such as obstacle avoidance or line following.
• Remote Control: Controls robots wirelessly via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi modules.

Circuit Design Basics

• Circuit: Creates a closed loop for electrical current.
• Breadboard: Allows solderless circuit prototyping and testing.
• Resistors: Limit current flow, measured in ohms (Ω).
• LEDs: Emit light when current passes through, requiring current-limiting resistors.
• Capacitors: Store electrical energy, measured in farads (F).
• Diodes: Allow current to flow in one direction only.
• Transistors: Used as switches or amplifiers in circuits.

Essential Circuit Design Principles

• Ohm's Law: V = IR (Voltage = Current x Resistance): Relates voltage, current, and resistance.
• Series Circuits: Feature the same current through all components.
• Parallel Circuits: Feature the same voltage across all components.
• Voltage Dividers: Generate specific voltage levels from a higher voltage source.
• Grounding: Establishes a voltage reference point within a circuit.

Practical Circuit Design Considerations

• Power Supply: Provides stable and appropriate circuit power.
• Component Selection: Selects components based on voltage and current ratings.
• Wire Management: Prevents shorts and errors by maintaining organized wiring.
• Documentation: Records circuit designs for future reference and troubleshooting.