> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://reacoda.gitbook.io/molemi-iot/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/molemi-iot/introduction-to-arduino-programming.md).

# Introduction to Arduino

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.

#### What is an Arduino ?

![Arduino Uno (arduino.cc)](https://3073865318-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-Ly3RLHyAwTi7Hml5lZN%2F-Ly8izhOJjormmnrlu27%2F-Ly8j4_6v2r3ssnK8neC%2Farduino-UNO.png?alt=media\&token=4444d06b-e997-4dfd-bf13-cea02a240787)

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

<div align="left"><img src="https://3073865318-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-Ly3RLHyAwTi7Hml5lZN%2F-Ly8mOWkgPJJYJv_Q91j%2F-Ly8mwwdYimLI7Bdj1_O%2FBoardAnatomy.svg?alt=media&amp;token=9f7f07e9-9707-4420-8262-d16665b2a83f" alt="The anatomy of the Arduino board (arduino.cc)"></div>

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. &#x20;**Power LED** Indicates that your Uno is receiving power. Useful for debugging.
4. **ATmega microcontroller** The heart of your board.
5. &#x20;**Analog in** Use these pins with analogRead().
6. &#x20;**GND and 5V pins** Use these pins to provide +5V power and ground to your circuits.
7. &#x20;**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. &#x20;**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. &#x20;**USB port** Used for powering your Uno, uploading your sketches, and for communicating with your sketch (via Serial. println() etc.).
10. &#x20;**Reset button** Resets the ATmega microcontroller.&#x20;

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> )

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