> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://reacoda.gitbook.io/reacoda/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://reacoda.gitbook.io/reacoda/master.md).

# Reacoda Learning Material

This page is dedicated to hosting the curriculum that we use for coding workshops at Reacoda (https\://reacoda.co.za)

One of the micro-controllers that will be used for the the Sustainable Farming Methods workshop will be the Arduino board. We will be using two variations namely the Arduino Uno and the NodeMCU.\
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The Uno will be used for introducing the basic concepts and programming methods while the NodeMCU will be used to connect the sensors for the IoT section of the workshop.\
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We will be using the Arduino board as it is open-source and affordable.

Becoming a super hero is a fairly straight forward process:

#### What is an Arduino ?

![](https://2671334201-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-Ly3OADOGtKzS60vUfrw%2F-LydO1MJzTPUMLCgLuK-%2F-LydO25NzqHxrTfS8LjJ%2Fimage.png?alt=media\&token=5d8225ff-072c-4338-ab33-ae2ba00f937d)

An Arduino board is an open-source micro-controller that is used to read inputs - temperature and humidity on a sensor, pressing/toggling a button and it is able to give out outputs - turning a motor and switching on an LED (read [full introduction here](https://www.arduino.cc/en/Guide/Introduction)).

### Getting Started

In order to start using the board, one needs to setup the Arduino IDE on their desktop by using the [getting started user guide](https://www.arduino.cc/en/Guide/HomePage).

#### The Arduino Anatomy

![](https://2671334201-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-Ly3OADOGtKzS60vUfrw%2F-LydOj4JNqfCdMoUFQ4S%2F-LydOk5d_B960Rpz65-M%2Fimage.png?alt=media\&token=7380ad59-1bbe-42c3-b6ec-d5a7f42a2889)

1. **Digital pins** Use these pins with digitalRead(), digitalWrite(), and analogWrite(). analogWrite() works only on the pins with the PWM symbol.
2. **Pin 13 LED** The only actuator built-in to your board. Besides being a handy target for your first blink sketch, this LED is very useful for debugging.
3.  **Power LED** Indicates that your Uno is receiving power. Useful for debugging.
4. **ATmega microcontroller** The heart of your board.
5.  **Analog in** Use these pins with analogRead().
6.  **GND and 5V pins** Use these pins to provide +5V power and ground to your circuits.
7.  **Power connector** This is how you power your Genuino when it’s not plugged into a USB port for power. Can accept voltages between 7-12V.
8.  **TX and RX LEDs** These LEDs indicate communication between your Genuino and your computer. Expect them to flicker rapidly during sketch upload as well as during serial communication. Useful for debugging.
9.  **USB port** Used for powering your Uno, uploading your sketches, and for communicating with your sketch (via Serial. println() etc.).
10.  **Reset button** Resets the ATmega microcontroller. 

For more details on the different parts of the Arduino please visit the [Arduino foundations page](https://www.arduino.cc/en/Tutorial/Foundations).

### Reference:

1. Arduino get started page (<https://www.arduino.cc/en/Guide/HomePage>).
2. Arduino Board Anatomy page ( <https://www.arduino.cc/en/Guide/BoardAnatomy> )
3. Arduino Foundations Page ( <https://www.arduino.cc/en/Tutorial/Foundations> )