It is an open-source hardware microcontroller. It comes in various sizes and shapes. For programming this module the Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment) is used. It can be programmed to read a simple button state to turn on/off an LED, accomplishing home automation projects using relay modules, can perform PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)operation on its digital pins, can read sensor data, capable of posting a message on Facebook as well. It is one of the most popular modules in the market.
Why Arduino has gained so popularity?
Open Source Hard Ware: It is available as an open source module, published under Creative Commons License. Which means any one can update /modify this module as per their needs without violating any copyright or license.
Large Community base: If you find any trouble tinkering this module, you can reach out to hundreds of online community to get answer to your queries. The fan following for this module is huge.
Low Cost: You can consider as one of the cheapest micro controller in the market.
Ease to Program: The module can be connected to computer with USB cable and using Arduino IDE it can be programmed in no time. The module can be programmed using C++ / python.
OS independent: The Arduino IDE can be installed in any environment as Windows, Linux, Mac.
Arduino – Uno
Arduino Specification:
| Processor | ATMega328P |
| Input voltage | 5 / 7- 12 V |
| Clock Speed | 16 MHz |
| Analog I/O | 6 |
| Digital I/O / PWM | 14/ 6 |
| EEPROM/SRAM[KB] | 1 / 2 |
| Flash [KB] | 32 |
| USB | Regular |
| DC current per I/O pin | 40 mA |
| Communication | UART,SPI,I2C |
Arduino Blink Program with in-built LED
Arduino Blink Program with LED and BreadBoard
Turning LED on/off using a switch with Arduino in-built pull up register