Introduction to Using an Arduino

This page is designed to provide an introduction to using Arduinos with simple attachments, such as NeoPixels, Servo Motors and LED strips. This is Lab 5 from Prof. Ludtke's annual introduction to programming class: LectureVideo/IntroProgramming15

The Arduino platform includes a range of small embedded computers designed to provide easy interfacing to a wide range of motors, displays, sensors, etc., at low cost ($5-$50). The processor in an Arduino is not very powerful (typically an 8-16 Mhz 8 bit processor), but it is sufficient for many simple applications (http://playground.arduino.cc/Projects/Ideas). Arduino compatibility has also been added to a number of more powerful processors, such as the BeagleBone Black and Intel Edison.

In this lab, you will have access to a variety of preassembled Arduino-peripheral combinations, with simple exercises for a range of different skill levels.

Everyone should start with this:

• Getting Started

When you finish that, pick one of these, and work through it to the end. If you're having fun, you are welcome to do more than one :

• Easy (5 available): Controlling the color of a NeoPixel

• Medium (1 available): Make a strip of RGB pixels do something

• Medium (1 available): Make a NeoPixel respond to a sensor

• Hard (1 available): Change the StarLord Mask behavior

• Hard (1 available): Make Huey the Chameleon do Something Interesting