Embedded Programming with Arduino
Rodney Dorville
Summary
• What is embedded programming?
• Arduino Systems
• Arduino Boards and Atmel processors
• The Arduino IDE System
• Writing your first sketch
• Blink
• Digital output & PWM
• Digital input
Embedded Programming
A dedicated computer system with a dedicated
function within a larger system to perform a
specific task. E.g. smart TVs, ovens
After development with the Uno, the circuit
could be reduced to a single IC with support
devices.
Ref: MatrixSynth – ATMega328 synthesizer
What is an Arduino?
• An Arduino System comprises of
Software & Software Tools
Integrated Development System (IDE)
Arduino programming language (C++ like) based on Wiring
Development & Debugging tool based on Processing
Software libraries (open source contributions)
Hardware
ATMel processor board
Shields (Add-on modules)
Sensors, actuators, peripherals
• Open Source Platform
Ref: Open Source Software
Arduino (common misconceptions)
• Made up of a microprocessor board (Arduino Uno)
• Can be used to build projects (with the board)
• Programmed in C++
• Has lots of clones, which may be incompatible
• Arduino is more than that (see later)
Arduino Systems
A hardware and software company based in
Italy
Initial development – software (based on
Wiring) and later hardware boards (Atmel
based)
Produces and markets “official” boards: Uno,
Due, Leonardo, Diecimila, Mega, Nano
Software and hardware is open source.
Why use Arduino?
• Inexpensive (cost < $5)
• Cross-platform (Mac, Linux, Windows)
• Simple, clear programming environments using a
GUI
• Open source and extensible software
• Open source and extensible hardware
Ref: Arduino – Why use Arduino?
Arduino Uno
• Most common microcontroller board to begin
Arduino projects.
• Uses a Atmel Atmega328P processor with a
separate programmable interface using another
Atmel processor and USB.
• Has sockets for interfacing
and power.
Alternative?
• Learn C++ with gcc compilation
• Setup an Atmel toolchain
C++ compiler (to write your project)
AVR compiler and toolchain (to convert C++ to asm)
• Calculate the Atmel AVR fuses, end set them for your
system
• Use AVRDude to program the Atmel processor
• Test using electronic test tools
• Difficult, time consuming, requires expert knowledge
and experience.
• Not for the beginner, but for more precise control.
Arduino ATMega328P processor
• Microcontroller ATMega328P
8-bit AVR processor running at 16MHz
32K Flash RAM, 1KB EEPROM , 2K SRAM
14 digital input/output pins
(6 can be used as PWM)
Labelled ATMega328P processor
6 analog inputs (10-bit ADC)
Serial USART
SPI, I2C, Timer, comparator
2 8-bit timers, 1 16-bit timer, RTC
• UNO adds
Second processor for USB interface
Interface sockets for easy use
Separate power and reset UNO board
Ref: Atmel ATMega328 datasheet
Arduino System & Boards
• Youtube: MakeUseOf – Thinking about Getting an Arduino
Embedded Programming
with Arduino
Rodney Dorville
