The Arduino UNO Rev3 is a globally renowned and extensively documented development board that has gained immense popularity. Its name "Uno," meaning "one" in Italian, signifies the release of the Arduino Software (IDE) 1.0. This board is powered by the ATmega328 microcontroller, offering a wide range of features. In addition to its impressive functionality, the Arduino UNO Rev3 stands out for its exceptional stability, user-friendly interface, and visually appealing design. The construction of this board incorporates the Arduino UNO bootloader and the ATmega16U2 UART-to-USB converter, further enhancing its capabilities.

 

Package Includes:

• 1 x Arduino Uno development board
• 1 x Plastic Cover for the lower side

 

Features:

• Microcontroller: The Arduino Uno Rev3 is based on the Atmega328P microcontroller, which provides a powerful and flexible platform for running code and controlling electronic components.
• I/O Pins: It features a total of 14 digital input/output (I/O) pins, among which 6 can be used as pulse-width modulation (PWM) outputs. Additionally, it offers 6 analog input pins for reading analog sensor values.
• Programming: The board can be programmed using the Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment), which offers a user-friendly coding environment with a simplified programming language.
• USB Connectivity: It has a USB Type-B connector that allows the board to be easily connected to a computer for programming and power supply.
• Power Options: The board can be powered via USB connection or an external power supply. It supports a voltage range of 7-12V for external power.
• Compatibility: The Arduino Uno Rev3 is compatible with a wide range of electronic components and sensors, making it suitable for various projects and prototyping needs.
• Expansion: It has several pins and headers that allow for easy connection of additional components and expansion boards, such as shields, to extend its capabilities.
• Open-Source: Arduino Uno Rev3 is part of the Arduino open-source ecosystem, which means the hardware and software specifications are available for anyone to use and modify.
• Beginner-Friendly: The Arduino Uno Rev3 is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for beginners who are just starting with electronics and programming.

Description:

The Arduino UNO Rev3 holds a remarkable reputation as the world's most renowned and extensively documented development board. Its name, "UNO," signifying "one" in Italian, pays homage to the momentous release of the Arduino Software (IDE) 1.0. Powered by the ATmega328 microcontroller, this board boasts an abundance of functionality, exceptional stability, intuitive usability, and an aesthetically pleasing design. Its construction integrates the ATmega16U2 UART-to-USB converter and the Arduino UNO bootloader, elevating its capabilities. When it comes to powering the Arduino UNO board, you have the flexibility of utilizing either an external power supply or a USB connection. The board intelligently selects the appropriate power source based on the availability. The ATmega328's memory capacity includes 32 KB, with a small portion (0.5 KB) allocated for the bootloader. In addition, it offers 1 KB of EEPROM, enabling read and write operations through the EEPROM library, along with 2 KB of SRAM. For seamless communication, the Arduino UNO provides various ports that facilitate connections to computers, other Arduino boards, or alternative microcontrollers. The ATmega328 supports UART TTL (5V) serial communication via digital pins 0 (RX) and 1 (TX). Furthermore, the presence of the ATmega16U2 simplifies serial communication over USB, emulating a virtual com port to the computer's software. Due to its extensive feature set, comprehensive documentation, and wide-ranging compatibility, the Arduino UNO Rev3 remains an exceptionally versatile and dependable choice for countless projects and applications.

 

Principle of Work:

The Arduino Uno is a remarkable example of free hardware, embodying the principles of openness and accessibility. Being open hardware means that its design blueprints and specifications are available to anyone for replication. This unique feature empowers individuals and businesses to create their own custom boards within the framework provided by Arduino. These boards can possess unique characteristics while still functioning seamlessly within the Arduino ecosystem. In addition to free hardware, Arduino embraces the concept of free software. The Arduino Uno works harmoniously with the Arduino IDE, which serves as an Integrated Development Environment. This platform enables users to program and upload their code, known as sketches, onto the Uno board. With the help of an embedded bootloader and an onboard Serial Converter, there's no need for an external programmer. This streamlined process allows individuals to unleash their creativity without any barriers.

Furthermore, the Arduino Uno benefits from an extensive library collection, which can be conveniently accessed and downloaded online. These libraries provide ready-to-use functions and utilities that enable users to effortlessly program and interact with a wide range of sensors and modules. Even without in-depth knowledge of the intricate inner workings of these components, the Arduino Uno empowers users to utilize them effectively and efficiently. The Arduino Uno, with its blend of open hardware, free software, and comprehensive library support, opens up a world of possibilities for creators, inventors, and enthusiasts. It enables them to bring their ideas to life, experiment with diverse components, and build innovative projects with ease.

 

Pinout of the Module:

USB Input: USB Port is used to connect the board to your PC for programming and for powering up.

Serial Converter: The ATmega328 on the Arduino Uno comes preprogrammed with a bootloader that allows you to upload new code to it without the use of an external hardware programmer. It communicates using the original STK500 protocol (reference, C header files). You can also bypass the bootloader and program the microcontroller through the ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) header using Arduino ISP or similar

The Arduino Uno features several power pins that provide different functions and voltage levels:

1. Vin: This pin allows you to supply voltage to the Arduino board from an external source. It is commonly used when the board is not powered through the USB connection or other regulated power sources. The Vin pin can also be utilized to access the supplied voltage if it comes from the power jack.

2. 5V: The 5V pin outputs a regulated 5V voltage provided by the onboard regulator. The Arduino board can be powered through various sources, including the DC power jack (7-12V), USB connector (5V), or the VIN pin (7-12V). It's important to note that supplying voltage directly through the 5V or 3.3V pins bypasses the regulator, which can potentially damage the board. Hence, it is not recommended.

3. 3V3: This pin supplies a regulated 3.3V voltage generated by the onboard regulator. However, the maximum current draw for this pin is limited to 50 mA.

4. GND: These pins represent the ground connections on the Arduino board, providing a reference point for electrical signals.

5. IOREF: The IOREF pin on the Arduino board serves as a voltage reference for the microcontroller's operation. It allows properly configured shields to read the voltage level and adapt accordingly. For instance, shields can select the appropriate power source or enable voltage translators on their outputs to be compatible with either 5V or 3.3V systems.

Additionally, the Arduino Uno includes the following indicators and connections:

• RX/TX Indicator: These LED indicators are connected to the RX and TX pins of the USB-to-UART chip. They automatically light up when the board is sending or receiving data, providing visual feedback on data transmission.
• ICSP: The ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) header provides a connection for the ATmega328P microcontroller. It also serves as the Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) port, with the MISO, SCK, and MOSI pins also connected to digital pins 12, 13, and 11, respectively.
• LED-D13: An LED is connected to digital pin 13 (D13) on the board. This onboard LED can be utilized as an indicator in programs or sketches, providing a visual output.
• Reset: The Reset button is conveniently placed on the side of the Arduino board. It allows you to reset the board even when a shield is mounted on top, making it easily accessible for resetting purposes.
• Note: The Arduino Uno includes a resettable polyfuse that protects the USB ports on your computer from shorts and overcurrent. Although most computers have internal protection, the fuse adds an extra layer of security. If more than 500 mA is applied to the USB port, the fuse will break the connection automatically until the short or overload is removed.

Applications:

1. Prototyping and Electronics Projects: Arduino Uno is widely used for prototyping electronic circuits and creating proof-of-concept projects. Its ease of use, extensive library support, and compatibility with various sensors and modules make it an ideal choice for hobbyists, students, and professionals.
2. Home Automation: Arduino Uno can be utilized to build home automation systems, allowing users to control and monitor various devices and appliances. From controlling lights and temperature to automating security systems, Arduino Uno enables DIY home automation projects.
3. Robotics: Arduino Uno is a popular choice for robotics enthusiasts. It can be used as the brain of robotic systems, controlling motors, sensors, and actuators. With the help of Arduino, users can create robots for education, hobby, or even advanced applications.
4. Internet of Things (IoT) Projects: Arduino Uno can be integrated into IoT projects, enabling connectivity and interaction with the physical world. It can collect sensor data, connect to the internet, and communicate with cloud services, making it suitable for building IoT prototypes and solutions.
5. Environmental Monitoring: Arduino Uno can be employed to monitor and collect data related to environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, air quality, and more. This data can be utilized for analysis, research, or implementation smart environmental monitoring systems.
6. Data Logging: Arduino Uno's ability to interface with various sensors and storage devices makes it suitable for data logging applications. It can collect and store data from sensors over time, allowing users to analyze and visualize the collected information.
7. Educational Projects: Arduino Uno is extensively used in educational settings to teach electronics, programming, and physical computing concepts. Its simplicity, availability of learning resources, and interactive nature make it an excellent tool for hands-on learning.
8. Art and Interactive Installations: Arduino Uno enables artists and designers to create interactive installations, kinetic sculptures, and responsive artworks. Its programmable nature allows for dynamic control of lights, sound, and motion, fostering creativity and innovation in artistic projects.

 

Circuit:

We will not need any circuit, in this testing code, we will rely on the built-in LED on the 13th pin.

 

Connecting with Arduino First Time

1. Open Arduino IDE: If you haven't already, download Arduino IDE from the official software page and install it. Arduino IDE is the programming environment used to write and upload code to your board.
2. Connect the board to your computer: Use a USB cable to connect your Arduino board to your computer. Ensure that the cable supports data transfer, as a charge-only cable won't work. Make sure the connectors fit both the board and your computer.
3. Select the board: Open Arduino IDE and click on "Tools" in the menu bar. From there, find the "Board" row and click on it. You will see a list of installed board packages. Select the appropriate board for your project by clicking on it. If you're unsure which board to choose, consult the documentation or specifications of your board.
4. Select the port: Still in the "Tools" menu, find the "Port" row. Click on it to see the available serial ports. Select the serial port that corresponds to your Arduino board. It's usually labeled with the board's name. If you're not sure which port to choose, you can disconnect the board, reopen the menu, and see which entry disappears. Reconnect the board and select that serial port.
5. Upload a sketch: Now it's time to write or choose a sketch (code) to upload to your Arduino board. You can start by clicking on "File" > "Examples" > "01. Basics" > "Blink" to open a basic blinking LED example. If you have your own code, you can write it in the Arduino IDE. Before uploading, you can click the "Verify" button to compile the sketch and check for any errors. If everything is correct, click the "Upload" button to program the board with the sketch.

Once the sketch is uploaded, it will start running on the Arduino board. The board will continue running the sketch each time it is reset. You can experiment with different sketches and explore the vast range of possibilities that Arduino offers.

For more detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips, you can refer to the official Arduino documentation and guides available on the Arduino website.

 

Code:

A sample code that blinks the LED connected to pin 13 of the Arduino Uno and displays a message in the Serial Monitor:

To use this code, follow these steps:

1. Connect an LED to pin 13 of the Arduino Uno. Connect the positive (longer) leg of the LED to pin 13 and the negative (shorter) leg to GND via a current-limiting resistor.
2. Open Arduino IDE and create a new sketch.
3. Copy and paste the above code into the Arduino IDE.
4. Verify the code by clicking the "Verify" button.
5. Upload the code to the Arduino Uno by clicking the "Upload" button.
6. Once uploaded, open the Serial Monitor by clicking "Tools" > "Serial Monitor" or by pressing Ctrl+Shift+M. Set the baud rate to 9600.
7. You should see the message "LED is blinking!" being printed in the Serial Monitor, and the LED connected to pin 13 will blink on and off every second.

// Blinking LED and Serial Monitor Example

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

// Variable to store the LED state
bool ledState = false;

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

  // Initialize the Serial Monitor
  Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  // Blink the LED
  digitalWrite(LED_PIN, ledState);
  ledState = !ledState;

  // Print a message in the Serial Monitor
  Serial.println("LED is blinking!");

  // Delay for 1 second
  delay(1000);
}

Technical Details:

MICROCONTROLLER	ATmega328P
OPERATING VOLTAGE	5V
INPUT VOLTAGE (RECOMMENDED)	7-12V
INPUT VOLTAGE (LIMIT)	6-20V
DIGITAL I/O PINS	14 (of which 6 provide PWM output)
PWM DIGITAL I/O PINS	6
ANALOG INPUT PINS	6
DC CURRENT PER I/O PIN	20 mA
DC CURRENT FOR 3.3V PIN	50 mA
FLASH MEMORY	32 KB (ATmega328P) of which 0.5 KB is used by bootloader
SRAM	2 KB (ATmega328P)
EEPROM	1 KB (ATmega328P)
CLOCK SPEED	16 MHz
LED_BUILTIN	13
LENGTH	68.6 mm
WIDTH	53.4 mm
WEIGHT	25 g

 

Resources:

• [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

 

Comparisons:

The Arduino Uno Rev3 and Arduino Mega 2560 are both popular development boards from Arduino, but they have some notable differences.let's see the next comparison between the two:

1. Microcontroller: The Arduino Uno Rev3 is based on the ATmega328P microcontroller, while the Arduino Mega 2560 uses the ATmega2560 microcontroller. The Mega 2560 has more program memory, RAM, and GPIO pins compared to the Uno.
2. Program Memory: The Uno has 32KB of flash memory for storing the program code, while the Mega 2560 has 256KB. This allows the Mega 2560 to handle larger and more complex programs.
3. RAM: The Uno has 2KB of RAM, while the Mega 2560 has 8 KB. This additional RAM enables the Mega 2560 to handle larger data sets and more advanced computations.
4. GPIO Pins: The Uno has a total of 14 digital GPIO pins, of which 6 can be used as PWM outputs. It also has 6 analog input pins. In contrast, the Mega 2560 offers 54 digital GPIO pins (of which 15 can be used as PWM outputs) and 16 analog input pins. This makes the Mega 2560 more suitable for projects that require a large number of input/output connections.
5. Power Supply: Both boards can be powered via USB connection or an external power source. However, the Mega 2560 can handle a wider voltage range (7-12V) through the DC power jack compared to the Uno (7-12V or 5V via the USB connection).
6. Form Factor: The Uno has a smaller form factor compared to the Mega 2560. The Uno is more compact and suitable for projects with space constraints, while the Mega 2560 offers more expansion capabilities and is better suited for larger projects

It's important to consider your project requirements when choosing between the Arduino Uno Rev3 and Arduino Mega 2560. If you need more program memory, RAM, GPIO pins, and analog inputs, the Mega 2560 may be a better choice. However, if you have space constraints or simpler project needs, the Uno can be a suitable option.