The Seeeduino v4.2 is a versatile, compact, and Arduino-compatible development board that provides a great platform for building and prototyping various electronics projects. It combines the simplicity of Arduino with enhanced features and expansion options, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced developers.

 

Package Includes:

• 1 x Seeeduino v4.2 development board

 

Features:

1. Microcontroller: The board is built around the Atmel ATmega328P microcontroller, which is the same one used in Arduino Uno. It provides 14 digital input/output pins, 6 analog inputs, and supports standard Arduino libraries and programming.
2. Compact Size: The Seeeduino v4.2 has a compact form factor, making it suitable for projects with space constraints or portable applications.
3. Arduino Compatibility: It is fully compatible with the Arduino IDE, allowing you to program it using the Arduino programming language and benefit from the extensive Arduino community and libraries.
4. Extended I/O: The board features additional I/O capabilities, including two additional analog input pins and two more digital pins than the Arduino Uno, providing more flexibility for connecting external sensors, actuators, and modules.
5. Grove Connectors: It comes with a set of Grove connectors, which are standardized connectors that simplify the connection of various sensors and modules. This feature enables quick prototyping and reduces the need for complex wiring.
6. Power Options: The Seeeduino v4.2 can be powered through a USB connection or an external power supply, making it adaptable to different power requirements.
7. Integrated USB-to-Serial Converter: It incorporates a built-in USB-to-Serial converter, allowing easy programming and communication with the board using a USB cable.
8. Onboard Reset Button: The board includes a reset button for convenient manual resetting when needed.
9. Rich Expansion Options: The Seeeduino v4.2 offers a variety of expansion possibilities, including headers for connecting shields, as well as ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) and FTDI interfaces for advanced programming and debugging.

 

Description:

The Seeeduino v4.2 development board is a powerful and versatile platform designed for Arduino-compatible projects. It features a compact form factor, making it suitable for projects with space constraints or portable applications. The board is built around the Atmel ATmega328P microcontroller, which is the same microcontroller used in the popular Arduino Uno. This microcontroller provides 14 digital input/output pins, and 6 analog inputs, and supports standard Arduino libraries and programming. It allows you to easily interface with various sensors, actuators, and modules to create interactive and innovative projects. One of the standout features of the Seeeduino v4.2 is its compatibility with the Arduino IDE. This means you can program the board using the Arduino programming language and leverage the extensive Arduino community and libraries. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced maker, this compatibility ensures a seamless development experience and opens up a world of possibilities for your projects. In addition to the standard Arduino features, the Seeeduino v4.2 offers expanded I/O capabilities. It provides two additional analog input pins and two more digital pins compared to the Arduino Uno, giving you greater flexibility in connecting external components. This is particularly useful when you need to interface with multiple sensors or control a larger number of devices. The board also includes Grove connectors, which are standardized connectors that simplify the connection of various sensors and modules. This feature enables quick prototyping and reduces the need for complex wiring. With the Grove ecosystem, you can easily plug in compatible modules and sensors without worrying about pin configurations or soldering. Powering the Seeeduino v4.2 is convenient and flexible. You can use a USB connection or an external power supply, depending on your project's requirements. This versatility allows you to adapt the board to different power sources and scenarios.

 

Principle of Work:

The Seeeduino v4.2 development board works by allowing you to write and upload code to the microcontroller, which then controls the behavior of the connected components. Here's how it works and how you can use it:

1. Connect Components: Start by connecting the desired components to the Seeeduino v4.2 board. This can include sensors, actuators, display modules, and other electronic devices. The board provides digital and analog pins for connecting these components.
2. Write Code: Use the Arduino IDE to write code for your project. The code defines the functionality and behavior of your project. You can use the standard Arduino libraries, as well as custom libraries, to simplify coding tasks and access a wide range of functionalities.
3. Upload Code: Once you have written your code, connect the Seeeduino v4.2 to your computer using a USB cable. In the Arduino IDE, select the correct board and port settings, and click the "Upload" button. The IDE compiles your code into a binary file and uploads it to the microcontroller on the board.
4. Execution: After uploading the code, the microcontroller starts executing the instructions you provided. It interacts with the connected components based on the logic you defined in your code. For example, it can read sensor data, control actuators, display information on an LCD screen, or communicate with other devices.
5. Iteration and Testing: If necessary, you can modify your code, recompile it, and upload it again to Seeeduino v4.2 to refine your project's functionality. This iterative process allows you to test and improve your project until it meets your desired specifications.
6. Expansion and Shield Compatibility: The Seeeduino v4.2 supports expansion through shields. Shields are pre-built modules that can be plugged directly onto the board, providing additional functionalities such as Wi-Fi connectivity, motor control, or data logging. By adding compatible shields, you can extend the capabilities of your projects without requiring complex wiring or soldering.
7. Debugging and Serial Communication: The Seeeduino v4.2 includes built-in features for debugging and serial communication. You can monitor the execution of your code, print debugging messages to the serial monitor in the Arduino IDE, and use the serial communication capabilities to exchange data between the board and your computer or other devices.

 

Pinout of the Module:

1. USB Input: The Seeeduino v4.2 features a USB port that serves two purposes. Firstly, it allows you to connect the board to your computer for programming and uploading code. Secondly, it provides power to the board, eliminating the need for an external power supply in many cases.
2. DC Input: To cater to projects requiring higher power, the Seeeduino v4.2 includes a DC power jack. By connecting a wall adapter to this jack, you can supply a wider voltage range (7V-15V) to the board. This is particularly useful when working with energy-demanding components like DC motors.
3. Grove Connectors: SeeedStudio has developed a range of sensors and devices that can seamlessly connect to the Seeeduino v4.2 via Grove connectors. These connectors support both I2C and UART communication protocols, providing a hassle-free interface for integrating various Grove modules. Furthermore, the I2C Grove connector is connected to analog pins A4 and A5 (SDA and SCL) if you prefer to utilize those pins instead. Similarly, the UART Grove connector is linked to digital pins 0 and 1 for RX and TX, respectively.
4. ICSP: The Seeeduino v4.2 features an ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) connection, positioned in accordance with the industry-standard layout found in Arduino Uno, Due, Mega, and Leonardo boards. This ICSP connector allows for seamless integration with compatible hardware, such as shields. The SPI pins (MISO, SCK, and MOSI) within this port are also connected to digital pins 12, 13, and 11, respectively, just like in the Arduino Uno.
5. USB 2 Uart: The USB 2 Uart pads on the Seeeduino v4.2 enable it to function as a USB-to-UART utility board. By putting the onboard ATmega328 microcontroller into reset mode, you can use these pads to communicate with other UART devices, expanding the board's capabilities.
6. System Power Switch: The board incorporates a slide switch that allows you to toggle between two logic levels and operating voltages: 5V and 3.3V. This switch provides flexibility in adapting the board to different voltage requirements within your project.
7. Reset: Positioned conveniently on the side, the reset button enables you to reset the Seeeduino v4.2 even when a shield is placed on top. This design consideration makes it easier to access the reset button compared to other Arduino boards, where it is typically located on top and can be obscured by shields.
8. LED-D13: The Seeeduino v4.2 includes an LED connected to the D13 pin of the board. This LED can be utilized as an onboard indicator, allowing you to visually monitor the status or progress of your programs or sketches.
9. RX/TX Indicator: The board incorporates TX and RX LED indicators, which are linked to the TX and RX pins of the USB-to-UART chip. These LEDs automatically light up to indicate data transmission and reception, providing visual feedback on the board's communication activity.

Applications:

1. Prototyping: The Seeeduino v4.2 is an excellent choice for prototyping electronic projects. Its compatibility with the Arduino IDE and extensive library support allows you to quickly build and test your ideas.
2. Home Automation: You can use Seeeduino v4.2 to create home automation systems. Connect sensors to monitor environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and light levels. Control devices like lights, fans, and motors based on predefined conditions or user input.
3. Robotics: With its support for motor control and sensor integration, the Seeeduino v4.2 is suitable for building robots. Use it as the brain of your robot, connecting motors, sensors, and actuators to enable autonomous or remote-controlled functionality.
4. IoT (Internet of Things) Projects: Combine the Seeeduino v4.2 with Wi-Fi or Ethernet shields to create IoT projects. Collect sensor data, control devices remotely, and interact with online services to build smart home systems, environmental monitoring solutions, or data logging applications.
5. Data Acquisition: The board's analog and digital inputs, combined with its ability to communicate with various sensors and modules, make it ideal for data acquisition projects. Capture and process data from sensors like temperature, pressure, acceleration, or light, and store or transmit it for analysis.
6. Display Systems: Utilize the Seeeduino v4.2 to drive display modules such as LCD screens, OLED displays, or LED matrices. Create interactive interfaces, show real-time data, or build simple gaming consoles.
7. Educational Projects: The Seeeduino v4.2 is widely used in educational settings to teach electronics, programming, and physical computing. Its compatibility with Arduino and its vast online community ensures abundant resources for learning and project ideas.
8. Art Installations: Use the Seeeduino v4.2 to power interactive art installations. Incorporate sensors, lights, sound modules, and actuators to create dynamic and responsive artworks.
9. Environmental Monitoring: Deploy the Seeeduino v4.2 in environmental monitoring projects. Connect sensors to measure air quality, pollution levels, weather conditions, or soil moisture. Analyze and visualize the collected data to gain insights into the environment.

 

Circuit:

No need for a circuit we will use the onboard LED in our example.

 

Library:

To work with the Seeeduino v4.2 board and upload code for the first time, follow these steps:

1. Install the Arduino IDE: Visit the official Arduino website (https://www.arduino.cc/) and download the latest version of the Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment) for your operating system. Follow the installation instructions provided on the website to install the Arduino IDE.
2. Connect the Board: Use a USB cable to connect the Seeeduino v4.2 board to your computer's USB port. Ensure a reliable connection between the board and the computer.
3. Open the Arduino IDE: Launch the Arduino IDE that you installed in step 1. It should detect the connected Seeeduino v4.2 board automatically.
4. Select the Board and Port: In the Arduino IDE, navigate to the "Tools" menu. Under the "Board" submenu, select "Arduino Uno" as the board type. Next, go to the "Port" submenu and choose the appropriate port to which the Seeeduino v4.2 board is connected.
5. Install Drivers (if needed): The Seeeduino v4.2 board typically uses the CH340 USB-to-serial converter. If your computer does not automatically recognize the board or if you encounter any driver-related issues, you may need to manually install the CH340 driver. Visit the Seeed Studio Wiki page for the Seeeduino v4.2 board (https://wiki.seeedstudio.com/Seeeduino_v4.2/) and follow the instructions provided there to download and install the driver.
6. Write and Upload Code: Now you are ready to write your code. In the Arduino IDE, open a new sketch or example, or write your own code. Write the desired functionality and logic for your project.
7. Verify and Upload: After writing your code, click on the "Verify" button (checkmark icon) to compile and check for any syntax errors. If the verification process is successful, click on the "Upload" button (right arrow icon) to upload the code to the Seeeduino v4.2 board. The Arduino IDE will compile the code and send it to the board for execution.
8. Observe the Results: Once the code is successfully uploaded, you can observe the results of your program. Depending on your code, the Seeeduino v4.2 board may interact with connected components, display information, or perform other programmed actions.

 

 

Code:

An example code that blinks the LED connected to pin 13 of the Seeeduino v4.2 board in a pattern:

// Blinking LED in a Unique Pattern

// Pin connected to the LED
const int ledPin = 13;

void setup() {
  // Initialize the LED pin as an output
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Blink the LED in a unique pattern
  blinkPattern();
  delay(1000);  // Delay between patterns
}

// Function to perform the unique blink pattern
void blinkPattern() {
  // Blink the LED three times rapidly
  for (int i = 0; i < 3; i++) {
    digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH);
    delay(100);
    digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);
    delay(100);
  }

  // Pause for a moment before continuing the pattern
  delay(200);

  // Blink the LED twice with a longer delay
  for (int i = 0; i < 2; i++) {
    digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH);
    delay(500);
    digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);
    delay(500);
  }

  // Pause for a moment before completing the pattern
  delay(200);

  // Blink the LED four times with a shorter delay
  for (int i = 0; i < 4; i++) {
    digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH);
    delay(200);
    digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);
    delay(200);
  }
}

1. const int ledPin = 13;: This line declares a constant integer variable ledPin and assigns it the value 13. It represents the pin number to which the LED is connected on the Seeeduino board.
2. void setup() {...}: This is the setup function that runs once when the board is powered on or reset. In this function, pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT); sets the ledPin as an output pin, indicating that it will be used to control the LED.
3. void loop() {...}: This is the main loop function that continuously executes after the setup function. It contains the code to blink the LED in a unique pattern.
4. blinkPattern(): This is a custom function defined to perform the unique blink pattern. It is called within the loop function to execute the pattern.

5. Inside the blinkPattern() function:

   • The LED blinks three times rapidly, with each blink lasting 100 milliseconds. This is achieved using a for loop that iterates three times. digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH); sets the LED pin to HIGH (ON) state, and delay(100); pauses the execution for 100 milliseconds. digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW); then sets the LED pin to LOW (OFF) state, and another delay(100); pause occurs.
   • A delay of 200 milliseconds follows before continuing to the next part of the pattern.
   • The LED blinks twice with a longer delay of 500 milliseconds between each blink. This is achieved using another for loop that iterates twice. Similar to the previous step, the LED is turned on and off using digitalWrite() and delay() functions.
   • Another delay of 200 milliseconds follows.
   • The LED blinks four times with a shorter delay of 200 milliseconds between each blink, using a for loop that iterates four times. The LED is turned on and off as before.

6. Finally, after the blinkPattern() function is executed in the loop() function, there is a delay of 1000 milliseconds (1 second) before the pattern is repeated, creating a pause between each pattern.

 

 

Technical Details:

Feature	Description
Microcontroller	ATmega328P
Operating Voltage	5V
Digital I/O Pins	14
Analog Input Pins	8
DC Current per I/O Pin	40 mA (max)
DC Current for 3.3V Pin	50 mA (max)
Flash Memory	32 KB (ATmega328P)
SRAM	2 KB (ATmega328P)
EEPROM	1 KB (ATmega328P)
Clock Speed	16 MHz
Input Voltage	7V-15V (DC power jack) or 5V (USB)
USB to Serial Converter	CH340G
I2C Grove Connector	A4 (SDA), A5 (SCL)
UART Grove Connector	D0 (RX), D1 (TX)
ICSP Connector	Yes (compatible with Arduino Uno, Due, Mega, Leonardo)
Dimensions	68.6mm x 53.3mm

 

Resources:

• 
  
  
• [PDF] Download Wiki PDF
• [Eagle] Seeeduino V4.2 in EAGLE file
• [PDF] Seeeduino V4.2 in PDF
• [Eagle] Seeeduino V4.0 in EAGLE file
• [PDF] Seeeduino V4.0 in PDF
• [Datasheet] ATmega328P
• [Datasheet] ATmega16U2
• [MoreReading] Getting Started with Arduino
• [MoreReading] Arduino Language Reference
• [MoreReading] Download the Arduino Software(IDE)
• [MoreReading] Arduino FAQ
• [MoreReading] Arduino Introduction
• [MoreReading] Wikipedia page for Arduino
• [MoreReading] How to fit RF Explorer 3G+ IoT modules on Seeeduino
• [Firmware] How to burn the bootloader

Comparisons:

This is comparison between the Seeeduino v4.2 and the Arduino Uno, highlighting their similarities and differences:

Feature	Seeeduino v4.2	Arduino Uno
Microcontroller	ATmega328P	ATmega328P
Operating Voltage	5V	5V
Digital I/O Pins	14	14
Analog Input Pins	8	6
PWM Pins	6	6
DC Current per I/O Pin	40 mA (max)	40 mA (max)
Flash Memory	32 KB	32 KB
SRAM	2 KB	2 KB
EEPROM	1 KB	1 KB
Clock Speed	16 MHz	16 MHz
Input Voltage	7V-15V (DC power jack) or 5V (USB)	7V-12V (DC power jack) or 5V (USB)
USB to Serial Converter	CH340G	ATmega16U2
I2C Pins	A4 (SDA), A5 (SCL)	A4 (SDA), A5 (SCL)
UART Pins	D0 (RX), D1 (TX)	D0 (RX), D1 (TX)
ICSP Connector	Yes (compatible with Arduino shields)	Yes (compatible with Arduino shields)
Dimensions	68.6mm x 53.3mm	68.6mm x 53.4mm

• Both the Seeeduino v4.2 and the Arduino Uno are based on the ATmega328P microcontroller and operate at 5V. They have similar digital and analog I/O pins, as well as PWM pins for analog output. The flash memory, SRAM, and EEPROM capacities are the same for both boards.
• One notable difference is the USB to Serial Converter used. The Seeeduino v4.2 utilizes the CH340G chip, while the Arduino Uno uses the ATmega16U2. This difference may require different drivers to be installed for the boards to be recognized by a computer.
• In terms of input voltage, the Seeeduino v4.2 can accept a wider range of input voltage (7V-15V) through the DC power jack compared to the Arduino Uno (7V-12V). Both boards can also be powered via USB.
• The Seeeduino v4.2 features I2C and UART Grove connectors, which provide convenient interfaces for connecting compatible sensors and modules. The Arduino Uno does not have dedicated Grove connectors but offers the same functionality through its digital and analog pins.
• Both boards have an ICSP connector, allowing compatibility with Arduino shields and other hardware that utilize this interface.
• In terms of dimensions, the Seeeduino v4.2 and Arduino Uno have nearly identical sizes, with slight variations in width.
• It's important to note that the Seeeduino v4.2 is compatible with the Arduino Uno, which means it can run Arduino sketches and use Arduino libraries. However, there may be slight differences in terms of pin mapping and driver installation.