Getting Started the Arduino (part 2)

What is a microcontroller

Before we know more about Arduino, we need to seriously teach the concept of "microcontroller."

Single-Chip Microcomputer, also known as Microcontroller, is a Microcontroller Chips that integrates a central processing unit, memory, Timer / Counter, various input / output interfaces and so on. Compared with general-purpose microprocessors used in personal computers, it emphasizes self-provisioning (without external hardware) and cost savings. Its biggest advantage is small size, can be placed inside the instrument, but the storage capacity is small, the input and output interface is simple, low function with the arduino ic chips.

The type of control system

1. I / O board

For example PicoBoard, Phidget. Although these devices can not be programmed directly, you can control their Input and Output through a desktop programming environment such as Scratch, Processing, or Flash.

2. Programmable module

Such as Arduino, BASIC Stamp. These devices, once programmed, can operate independently of the computer. There are many electronic Arduino Components on the programmable module: communication, power management(Power Supply Module), connectors... They have more scalable content than I / O boards and are more convenient than bare-chip processors. For most people, learning from this level is the best.

3. Bare-chip processor

For example, Propeller, PICAXE. You have to get all your support circuits and connections yourself, but they're cheaper. In general, they are more suitable for the more experienced hobbyist.

4. Single-board computer

Experienced programmers might feel excited about boards like the Beagle Board and the Raspberry Pi. Actually, I will not recommend for beginners with no programming foundation to get started. For programming beginners, direct access to the Linux command line is difficult.

Arduino's software development platform

Arduino Development Board has a major feature that is different from the I / O board - it is programmable, which means that Arduino specific functions on the microcontroller can be repeatedly changed. The program written by Arduino is called "sketch."

Arduino Extension Module Board 

In summary, Arduino Development Board is only the core control module can be programmed, so it needs the cooperation of other expansion modules. There are countless expansion modules available on the market for Arduino: Common sensor modules are similar to Heating Module, Power Supply Module, Radio Receiver Module, Wireless Remote Control Switch, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, light sensors, pressure sensors, etc., common actuator modules are servo motors, buzzers, LEDs and so on.

Arduino Control Board usually provides enough digital/analog input and output PIN, used to connect these expansion modules. So, a great part of learning to use Arduino is to pick the right extension module and diy electronics kit for your project, connect it to the Arduino module board correctly, write the correct driver using the Arduino IDE, and continue debugging until it succeeds.