SIK Guide

SIK GUIDE
Your Guide to the SparkFun Inventors Kit for Arduino
RES
Table of Contents
Welcome to the SparkFun Inventors Guide
The SparkFun Inventor's Guide is your map for navigating
the waters of beginning embedded electronics. This
booklet contains all the information you will need to
explore the 14 circuits of the SparkFun Inventor's Kit for
Arduino. At the center of this manual is one core
philosophy - that anyone can (and should) play around
with electronics. When you're done with this guide, you'll
have the know-how to start creating your own projects
and experiments. Now enough talking - let's get inventing!
sparkfun.com
Section 1:
Getting Started with Arduino

What is an Arduino?
Download Arduino Software (IDE)
Install Drivers for Arduino
Identify your Arduino
Download SIK Guide Code
Section 2:
Getting Started with Circuits

The World Runs on Circuits
Inventory of Parts
11
Arduino Uno
13
Breadboard
15
Circuit #1 - Your First Circuit: Blinking a LED
17
Circuit #2 - Potentiometer
24
Circuit #3 - RGB LED
28
Circuit #4 - Multiple LEDs
32
Circuit #5 - Push Buttons
36
Circuit #6 - Photo Resistor
40
Circuit #7 - Temperature Sensor
44
Circuit #8 - A Single Servo
48
Circuit #9 - Flex Sensor
52
Circuit #10 - Soft Potentiometer
56
Circuit #11 - Piezo Element
60
Circuit #12 - Spinning a Motor
64
Circuit #13 - Relay
68
Circuit #14 - Shift Register
72
What is an Arduino?
The Arduino Revolution
Arduino is an open-source physical computing platform
designed to make experimenting with electronics more
fun and intuitive. Arduino has its own unique, simplified
programming language, a vast support network, and
thousands of potential uses, making it the perfect platform
for both beginner and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
arduino.cc
A Computer for the Physical World

The friendly blue board in your hand (or on your
desk) is the Arduino. In some ways you could
think of Arduino as the child of traditional desktop
and laptop computers. At its roots, the Arduino is
essentially a small portable computer. It is capable
of taking inputs (such as the push of a button or a
reading from a light sensor) and interpreting that
information to control various outputs (like a
blinking LED light or an electric motor).
That's where the term "physical computing" is
born - an Arduino is capable of taking the world of
electronics and relating it to the physical world in
a real and tangible way. Trust us - this will all make
more sense soon.
// Arduino UNO SMD R3

The Arduino Uno is one of several development
boards based on the ATmega328. We like it mainly
because of its extensive support network and its
versatility. It has 14 digital input/output pins (6 of
which can be PWM outputs), 6 analog inputs, a 16
MHz crystal oscillator, a USB connection, a power
jack, an ICSP header, and a reset button. Dont
worry, youll learn about all these later.
c
b
f
a
Bug Zapper Counter
Camera Time-lapse operation
Auto-Coffee Maker
Old Toy Email Notifer
Auto-Plant Watering
Quadcopter
Power-Lacing High Tops
Re-Programmed Traffic Light
Download the Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment)

Access the Internet
NW
In order to get your Arduino up and running, you'll need to

download some software first from www.arduino.cc (it's
free!). This software, known as the Arduino IDE, will allow
you to program the Arduino to do exactly what you want.
Its like a word processor for writing programs. With an
internet-capable computer, open up your favorite browser
and type in the following URL into the address bar:
NE
E
SE
SW
arduino.cc/en/Main/Software
< case sensitive >
Click on the + sign next to your
appropriate computer operating system.

Windows
Download
Windows
Mac OS
X
Mac OS X
Linux: 32 bit, 64 bit
Linux:source
32 bit, 64 bit
user
Choose the appropriate Operating System installation package for your computer.
// Connect your Arduino Uno to your Computer

Use the USB cable provided in the SIK kit to connect the Arduino
to one of your computers USB inputs.
2
3
// Install Drivers
Depending on your computers operating system, you will need to follow specific
instructions. Please consult the URLs below for specific instructions on how to
install the drivers onto your Arduino Uno.
* You will need to scroll to the section labeled Install the drivers.
Windows Installation Process

Go to the web address below to access the instructions for
installations on a Windows-based computer.
http://arduino.cc/en/Guide/Windows
Macintosh OS X Installation Process

Macs do not require you to install drivers. Enter the following URL if
you have questions. Otherwise proceed to next page.
http://arduino.cc/en/Guide/MacOSX
Linux: 32 bit / 64 bit, Installation Process

Go to the web address below to access the instructions for
installations on a Linux-based computer.
http://www.arduino.cc/playground/Learning/Linux
// Open the Arduino IDE:

Open the Arduino IDE software on your computer. Poke around and get to know
the interface. We arent going to code right away, this is just an introduction. The
step is to set your IDE to identify your Arduino Uno.
GUI (Graphical User Interface)

1 Verify: Compiles and approves your code. It will catch errors in syntax (like missing semi-colons or parenthesis).
// See Diagram Below
2 Upload: Sends your code to the Arduino board. When you click it, you should see the lights on your board blink rapidly. // See Diagram Below
3 New: This buttons opens up a new code window tab.
4 Open: This button will let you open up an existing sketch. // See Diagram Below
5 Save: This saves the currently active sketch.
6 Serial Monitor: This will open a window that displays any serial information your Arduino is transmitting. It is very useful for debugging.
7 Sketch Name: This shows the name of the sketch you are currently working on.
8 Code Area: This is the area where you compose the code for your sketch.
9 Message Area: This is where the IDE tells you if there were any errors in your code.
// The three most important commands for this guide are seen below:
Open
Verify
Upload
// Select your board: Arduino Uno

File
Edit
Sketch
Tools
Help
Auto Format
Archive Sketch
Fix Encoding & Reload
Serial Monitor
Board
Serial Port
Programmer
Burn Bootloader
Arduino Uno
Arduino Duemilanove w/ ATmega328]
Arduino Diecimila or Duemilanove w/ ATmega168
Arduino Nano w/ ATmega328
Arduino Nano w/ ATmega168
Arduino Mega 2560 or Mega ADK
Arduino Mega (ATmega1280)
Arduino Mini
Arduino Mini w/ATmega168
Arduino Ethernet
Arduino Fio
Arduino BT w/ ATmega328
Arduino BT w/ATmega168
LilyPad Arduino w/ ATmega328
LilyPad Arduino w/ ATmega168
Arduino Pro or Pro Mini (5V, 16 MHz) w/ATmega328
Arduino Pro or Pro Mini (5V, 16 MHz) w/ATmega168
Arduino Pro or Pro Mini (3.3V, 8 MHz) w/ATmega328
Arduino Pro or Pro Mini (3.3V, 8 MHz) w/ATmega168
Arduino NG or older w/ ATmega168
Arduino NG or older w/ ATmega8
Tools
Help
Auto Format
Archive Sketch
Serial Monitor
// Select your Serial Device
Board
Serial Port
Select the serial device of the Arduino board from

the Tools | Serial Port menu. This is likely to be
com3 or higher (COM1 and COM2 are usually
reserved for hardware serial ports). To find out,
you can disconnect your Arduino board and
re-open the menu; the entry that disappears
should be the Arduino board. Reconnect the board
and select that serial port.
Programmer
Burn Bootloader
Tools
com 1
com 12
Help
Auto Format
Archive Sketch
Serial Monitor
Board
Serial Port
Select the serial device of the Arduino board from

the Tools > Serial Port menu. On the Mac, this
should be something with /dev/tty.usbmodem
(for the Uno or Mega 2560) or
/dev/tty.usbserial (for older boards) in it.
Programmer
Burn Bootloader
/dev/tty.usbmodem262471
/dev/cu.usbmodem262471
/dev/tty.Bluetooth-Modem
/dev/cu.Bluetooth-Modem
/dev/tty.FireFly-7256-SPP
/dev/cu.FireFly-7256-SPP
/dev/tty.tiPhone-WirelessiAP-1
/dev/cu.tiPhone-WirelessiAP-1
/dev/tty.Bluetooth-PDA-Sync
/dev/cu.Bluetooth-PDA-Sync
Download Arduino Code (For use with the circuits in this guide)
5
Type in the following URL to download the code:
// Copy SIK Guide Code into Examples library in Arduino folder
sparkfun.com/sikcode
Start
Unzip the file SIK Guide Code.

It should be located in your
browsers Downloads folder.
Right click the zipped folder and
choose unzip.
Programs
arduino
examples
Copy the SIK Guide Code folder into Arduinos

folder named examples.
Contents
Resources
Unzip the file SIK Guide Code.

It should be loacted in your
browsers Downloads folder.
Right click the zipped folder and
choose unzip.
Find Arduino in your applications

folder. Right click(ctrl + click) on
Arduino. Select Show Package
Contents.
Java
examples
Arduino
Open
Show Package Contents
Move to Trash
Copy the SIK Guide Code folder

into Arduinos folder named
examples.
Getting Started with Circuits

What is an Electrical Circuit?
A circuit is basically an electronics loop with a starting
point and an ending point - with any number of components in between. Circuits can include resistors, diodes,
inductors, sensors of all sizes and shapes, motors, and any
other handful of hundreds of thousands of components.
Circuits are usually divided into three categories - analog
circuits, digital circuits, or mixed-signal circuits. In this
guide, you will explore all three sets of circuits.
The World Runs on Circuits:

Everywhere you look, you'll find circuits. The
cell phone in your pocket, the computer that
controls your car's emissions system, your
video game console - all these things are chock
full of circuits. In this guide, you'll experiment
with some simple circuits and learn the gist of
the world of embedded electronics.
// Simple and Complex Circuits

In this guide, you will be primarily exploring
simple circuits - but that doesn't mean you
can't do amazing things with simple tools!
When you've finished the SIK, your
knowledge of circuits will enable you to
explore amazing projects and unleash the
power of you imagination.
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Inventory of Parts
LED (5mm)
Jumper Wire
x30
x10
330 Resistor
x25
(Light Emitting Diode)
Various Colors
x10
x1
10K Resistor
* ACTUAL SIZE
Potentiometer
* ACTUAL SIZE
x25
Diode
(1N4148)
x1
* ACTUAL SIZE
x2
Piezo Element
Photo Resistor
x1
x1
Transistor
(TMP36)
P2N2
222A
A18
Temp. Sensor
(P2N2222AG)
FRONT
x1
DC Motor
FRONT
BACK
x2
Push Button
x1
x2
BACK
Flex Sensor
Arduino Board
UNO - SMD
PTH Version
Version
MADE
IN ITALY
x1
AREF
GND
13
12
11
10
TX
RX
Soft Potentiometer
RESET-EN
RESET
3.3V
5V
GND
GND
VIN
POWER
9
8
DIGITAL (PWM )
RESET
Servo
ANALOG IN
x1
A0
A1
A2
A3
A4
A5
6
5
4
3
2
TX
1
0
RX
WWW.ARDUINO.CC
x1
Breadboard
Standard Solderless
x1
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Relay
x1
Integrated Circuit
(IC)
x1
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Arduino Uno
1 Power In (Barrel Jack) - Can be used with either a 9V or 12V wall-wart or battery.
2 Power In (USB Port) - Provides power and communicates with your board when plugged into your computer via USB.
3 LED (RX: Receiving) - This shows when the Arduino is receiving data (such as when being programmed).
4 LED (TX: Transmitting)
- This shows when your Arduino is transmitting data (such as when running a program).
5 LED (Pin 13: Troubleshooting)
- This LED is incorporated into your sketch to show if your program is running properly.
6 Pins (ARef, Ground, Digital, Rx, Tx) - These various pins can be used for inputs, outputs, power, and ground. // See Diagram Below
7 LED (Indicates Arduino is ON) - This is a simple power indicator LED.
8 Reset Button - This is a way to manually reset your Arduino, which makes your code restart.
9 ICSP Pins (Uploading Code without Bootloader)
- This is for "In-Circuit Serial Programming," used if you want to bypass the boot loader.
10 Pins (Analog In, Power In, Ground, Power Out, Reset) - These various pins can be used for inputs, outputs, power, and ground. // See Diagram Below
// Pins Diagram
The header pins are one of the most important parts for putting our
example circuits together. Take a moment and locate the input/output
ports of your Arduino Uno.
SCL
SDA
ARef
RFU
IOREF
Reset
Power Out
Power Out
Ground
Ground
10
Power In
Ground
Digital
Digital
Digital
Digital
Digital
Digital
Digital
Digital
Analog
Digital
Analog
Digital
Analog
Digital
Analog
Digital
Analog
TX - Out
Analog
RX - In
= PWM/Analog out compatible (i.e.
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This line divides the board in half, restricting electricity to one half or the other.
Breadboard
1 Vertical Connection (+ Power and - Ground // See Diagram Below)
2 Horizontal Connection (a-e & f-j // See Diagram Below)
Making a Connection:
Above the breadboard
LED
Hows it all connected?
CONNECTED!
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View of the inside
Power:
Each + sign runs power anywhere in the
vertical column.
Ground:
Each - sign runs to ground anywhere in the
vertical column.
Horizontal Rows:
Each of these rows numbered 1-30 are
comprised of five horizontal sockets.
Components placed in the same row will be
connected in a circuit when power is running.
Inside the breadboard
CIRCUIT #1 - Your First Circuit

How It Works:
ASSEMBLE
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UPLOAD
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5V Current Your Arduino runs on five volts. This is the power that will be supplied from your
computer via USB and will be the driving force behind any components you use in your circuits. By
plugging your Arduino board into your computer, you are supplying it with just the right voltage it
needs to thrive! 5V cant hurt you, so dont be afraid to touch anything in your citcuit.
Circuit 2
Pin 13
Blinking a LED
Arduino
LED
(Light Emitting Diode)
LEDs (light-emitting diodes) are small, powerful lights

that are used in many different applications. To start off
the SIK, we will work on blinking an LED. That's right
- it's as simple as turning a light on and off. It might
not seem like much, but establishing this important
baseline will give you a solid foundation as we work
toward more complex experiments.
Resistor (330ohm)
(Orange-Orange-Brown)
GND
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
LED
330
Resistor
X
Wire
X
Circuit 1: Blinking a LED
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f g h i
LED:
(-).
Flat Edge
Short Leg
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Component:
LED (5mm)
Image Reference:
-
c2 c3
330 Resistor
Jumper Wire
GND
Jumper Wire
5V
Jumper Wire
GND
a3
a3
+
e2
e2
Open Your First Sketch:

Open Up the Arduino IDE software on your computer. Coding in the Arduino
language will control your circuit. Open the code for Circuit 1 by accessing the SIK
Guide Code you downloaded and placed into your Example folder earlier.
File
Edit
Sketch
Tools
New
Open...
Sketchbook
Examples
Close
Save
Save As...
Upload
Upload Using Progammer
Page Setup
Print
Help
1.Basics
2.Digital
3.Analog
4.Communication
5.Control
6.Sensors
7.Displays
8.Strings
ArduinoISP
SIK Guide Code
Circuit #1
Circuit #2
Circuit #3
Circuit #4
Circuit #5
Circuit #6
Circuit #7
Circuit #8
Circuit #9
Circuit #10
Circuit #11
Circuit #12
Circuit #13
Circuit #14
EEPROM
Ethernet
Firmata
Liquid Crystal
SD
Servo
SoftwareSerial
SPI
Stepper
Wire
// Circuit #1
/*
Blink
Turns on an LED on for one second,
then off for one second, repeatedly.
This example code is in the public domain.
*/
void setup() {
// initialize the digital pin as an output.
// Pin 13 has an LED connected on most Arduino boards:
pinMode(13, OUTPUT);
}
void loop() {
digitalWrite(13, HIGH);
delay(1000);
digitalWrite(13, LOW);
delay(1000);
}
//
//
//
//
set the LED on

wait for a second
set the LED off
wait for a second
This compiles your code. The IDE changes it from text into instructions the computer
can understand.
This sends the instructions via the USB cable to the computer chip on the Arduino board.
The Arduino will then begin running your code automatically.
// The result of a completed circuit with correct code after verified and uploaded.
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Open Arduino IDE // File > Examples > SIK Guide > Circuit # 1
Code to Note:
pinMode(13, OUTPUT);
Before you can use one of the Arduino's pins, you need to tell the
Arduino whether it is an INPUT or OUTPUT. We use a built-in
"function" called pinMode() to do this.
digitalWrite(13, HIGH);
When you're using a pin as an OUTPUT, you can command it to be

HIGH (output 5 Volts), or LOW (output 0 Volts).
What you Should See:

You should see your LED blink on and off. If
it isn't, make sure you have assembled the
circuit correctly and verified and uploaded the
code to your board or see the troubleshooting
tips below.
Troubleshooting:
Real World Application:
LED Not Lighting Up?

LEDs will only work in one direction. Try taking it out and
twisting it 180 degrees (no need to worry, installing it backwards does
no permanent harm).
Almost all modern flat screen televisions and monitors

have LED indicator lights to show they are on or off.
Program Not Uploading

This happens sometimes, the most likely cause is a confused
serial port, you can change this in tools>serial port>
Still No Success?
A broken circuit is no fun, send us an e-mail and we will get
back to you as soon as we can: techsupport@sparkfun.com
Circuit 2
CIRCUIT
#5
#2
Potentiometer
In this circuit youll work with a potentiometer.

A potentiometer is also known as a variable resistor.
When its connected with 5 volts across its two outer
pins, the middle pin outputs a voltage between 0 and
5, depending on the position of the knob on the
potentiometer. In this circuit, youll learn how to use
a potentiometer to control the brightness of an LED.
+5 Volts
Pin 13
Arduino
Potentiometer
Arduino
Pin A
LED
resistor
(330ohm)
GND
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
IC
Potentiometer
LED
X
330
Resistor
X
18
Wire
X
18
19
6
p.24
p.10
Circuit 2: Potentiometer
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Component:
Digital versus Analog:
Image Reference:
a6
Potentiometer
a7
If you look closely at your Arduino, you'll see some pins labeled "DIGITAL",
and some labeled "ANALOG". What's the difference?
a8
LED (5mm)
h20 h21
330 Resistor
i21
Jumper Wire
e6
Jumper Wire
A0
Jumper Wire
Many of the devices you'll interface to, such as LEDs and pushbuttons, have
only two possible states: on and off, or as they're known to the Arduino,
"HIGH" (5 Volts) and "LOW" (0 Volts). The digital pins on an Arduino are
great at getting these signals to and from the outside world, and can even do
tricks like simulated dimming (by blinking on and off really fast), and serial
communications (transferring data to another device by encoding it as patterns
of HIGH and LOW).
e7
+
e8
Jumper Wire
5V
j20
Jumper Wire
GND
5V
Jumper Wire
GND
DIGITAL
LOW
HIGH
off
on
0 volts
5 volts
But there are also a lot of things out there that aren't just "on" or "off".
Temperature levels, control knobs, etc. all have a continuous range of values
between HIGH and LOW. For these situations, the Arduino offers six analog
inputs that translate an input voltage into a number that ranges from 0 (0 Volts)
to 1023 (5 Volts). The analog pins are perfect for measuring all those "real
world" values, and allow you to interface the Arduino to all kinds of things.
ANALOG
0 volts
5 volts
1023
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
int sensorValue;
A "variable" is a number you've given a name to. You must

introduce, or "declare" variables before you use them; here we're
declaring a variable called sensorValue, of type "int" (integer). Don't
forget that variable names are case-sensitive!
sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin);
delay(sensorValue);
We use the analogRead() function to read the value on an

analog pin. analogRead() takes one parameter, the analog
pin you want to use ("sensorPin"), and returns a number
("sensorValue") between 0 (0 Volts) and 1023 (5 Volts).
The Arduino is very very fast, capable of running thousands of lines

of code each second. To slow it down so that we can see what it's
doing, we'll often insert delays into the code. Delay() counts in
milliseconds; there are 1000 ms in one second.

You should see the LED blink faster
or slower in accordance with your
potentiometer. If it isn't working,
make sure you have assembled the
circuit correctly and verified and
uploaded the code to your board or
see the troubleshooting tips below.
Troubleshooting:
Sporadically Working
This is most likely due to a slightly dodgy connection
with the potentiometer's pins. This can usually be
conquered by holding the potentiometer down.
MP3 players volume control is an example of a

potentiometer in action.
Not Working
Make sure you haven't accidentally connected the
potentiometer's wiper to digital pin 2 rather than analog
pin 2. (the row of pins beneath the power pins).
Still Backward
You can try operating the circuit upside down.
Sometimes this helps.
Circuit 2
CIRCUIT
#3
RGB LED
Pin 11
Pin 10
Pin 9
resistor
(330ohm)
red
green
blue
You know whats even more fun than a blinking

LED? A colored one. RGB, or red-green-blue, LEDs
have three different color-emitting diodes that can be
combined to create all sorts of colors. In this circuit,
youll learn how to use an RGB LED to create unique
color combinations. Depending on how bright each
diode is, nearly any color is possible!
GND
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
LED
IC
Potentiometer
330 Transistor
LED
Wire
330
Resistor P2N2222AG Resistor
X
38
1X6
red
blue
green
common
p.10
p.28
Circuit 3: RGB LED
* The longest lead is the common(gnd).
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Component:
The shocking truth behind analogWrite():
Image Reference:
a4 a5 a6 a7
RGB LED (5mm)

330 Resistor
5V
e4 eg4
e7
11
330 Resistor
5V
e6 eg6
e7
11
330 Resistor
5V
e7 eg7
11
Jumper Wire
h4
Jumper Wire
e5
Jumper Wire
h6
Jumper Wire
h7
We've seen that the Arduino can read analog voltages (voltages between 0 and
5 Volts) using the analogRead() function. Is there a way for the Arduino to
output analog voltages as well?
The answer is no... and yes. The Arduino does not have a true analog voltage
output. But, because the Arduino is so fast, it can fake it using something
called PWM ("Pulse-Width Modulation").
The Arduino is so fast that it can blink a pin on and off almost 1000 times per
second. PWM goes one step further by varying the amount of time that the
blinking pin spends HIGH vs. the time it spends LOW. If it spends most of
its time HIGH, a LED connected to that pin will appear bright. If it spends
most of its time LOW, the LED will look dim. Because the pin is blinking
much faster than your eye can detect, the Arduino creates the illusion of a
"true" analog output.
HIGH (5 volts)
0.5 v
90%
LOW (0 volts)
Jumper Wire
5V
Jumper Wire
GND
10%
+
HIGH (5 volts)
50%
LOW (0 volts)
10%
HIGH (5 volts)
LOW (0 volts)
2.5 v
50%
4.5 v
90%
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
for (x = 0; x < 768; x++)
{}
A for() loop is used to step a number across a range, and

repeatedly runs code within the brackets {}. Here the variable "x"
starts a 0, ends at 767, and increases by one each time ("x++").
if (x <= 255)
{}
else
{}
"If / else" statements are used to make choices in your programs. The
statement within the parenthesis () is evaluated; if it's true, the code within
the first brackets {} will run. If it's not true, the code within the second
brackets {} will run.
delay(sensorValue);
The Arduino is very very fast, capable of running thousands of lines

of code each second. To slow it down so that we can see what it's
doing, we'll often insert delays into the code. Delay() counts in
milliseconds; there are 1000 ms in one second.

You should see your LED turn on,
but this time in new, crazy colors! If it
isn't, make sure you have assembled
the circuit correctly and verified and
uploaded the code to your board or
Troubleshooting:
LED Remains Dark or Shows Incorrect Color

With the four pins of the LED so close together, its
sometimes easy to misplace one. Double check each
pin is where it should be.
Many electronics such as

videogame consoles use RGB
LEDs to have the versatility
to show different colors in
the same area. Often times
the diffent colors represent
different states of working
condition.
Seeing Red
The red diode within the RGB LED may be a bit brighter
than the other two. To make your colors more balanced,
use a higher ohm resistor. Or adjust in code.
analogWrite(RED_PIN, redIntensity);
to
analogWrite(RED_PIN, redIntensity/3);
CIRCUIT #4
Pin 2
Pin
2
Pin 33
Pin
Pin 44
Pin
Multiple LEDs
Pin 55
Pin
LED
Light Emitting Diode
resistor
(330ohm)
GND
Pin 66
Pin
Pin 77
Pin
Pin 88
Pin
Pin 99
Pin
LED
So you have gotten one LED to blink on and off

fantastic! Now it's time to up the stakes a little bit by
connecting EIGHT LEDS AT ONCE. We'll also give
our Arduino a little test by creating various lighting
sequences. This circuit is a great setup to start practicing
writing your own programs and getting a feel for the
way Arduino works.
Along with controlling the LEDs, youll learn about a
couple programming tricks that keep your code neat
and tidy:
Light Emitting Diode
resistor
(330ohm)
arrays[ ] - used to make managing variables easier by

grouping them together
GND
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
LED
330
Resistor
X
for() loops - used when you want to run a piece of

code several times
Wire
X
10
p.32
Circuit 4: Multiple LEDs
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Component:
Image Reference:
Component:
+
Image Reference:
c2 c3
330 Resistor
GND
a18
a3
c5 c6
330 Resistor
GND
a21
c8 c9
330 Resistor
GND
a24
c11 c12
Jumper Wire
e2
c14 c15
Jumper Wire
e5
c17 c18
Jumper Wire
e8
c20 c21
Jumper Wire
e11
c23 c24
Jumper Wire
e14
330 Resistor
GND
c23
c24
a3
Jumper Wire
e17
330 Resistor
GND
a6
Jumper Wire
e20
330 Resistor
GND
a9
Jumper Wire
e23
330 Resistor
GND
a12
Jumper Wire
5V
330 Resistor
GND
a15
Jumper Wire
GND
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
When you have to manage a lot of variables, an
"array" is a handy way to group them together. Here
we're creating an array of integers, called ledPins,
with eight elements.
int ledPins[] = {2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9};
You refer to the elements in an array by their position. The first

element is at position 0, the second is at position 1, etc. You refer to
digitalWrite(ledPins[0], HIGH);
an element using "ledPins[x]" where x is the position. Here we're

making digital pin 2 HIGH, since the array element at position 0 is "2".
index = random(8);
Computers like to do the same things each time they run. But
sometimes you want to do things randomly, such as simulating the
roll of a dice. The random() function is a great way to do this. See
http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/Random for more information.

This is similar to circuit number one, but
instead of one LED, you should see all the
LEDs blink. If they aren't, make sure you
have assembled the circuit correctly and
verified and uploaded the code to your board
or see the troubleshooting tips below.
Troubleshooting:
Some LEDs Fail to Light

It is easy to insert an LED backwards. Check the LEDs
that aren't working and ensure they the right way
around.
Scrolling marquee displays are generally used to spread

short segments of important information. They are built
out of many LEDs.
Operating out of sequence

With eight wires it's easy to cross a couple. Double check
that the first LED is plugged into pin 2 and each pin
there after.
Starting Afresh
Its easy to accidentally misplace a wire without noticing.
Pulling everything out and starting with a fresh slate is
often easier than trying to track down the problem.
Circuit 2
CIRCUIT
#5
Push Buttons
Pin 22
Pin
Pin 33
Pin
+5 Volts
Pin 13
resistor
LED
resistor (330ohm)
Up until now, weve focused solely on outputs. Now

were going to go to the other end of spectrum and
play around with inputs. In this circuit, well be
looking at one of the most common and simple
inputs a push button. The way a push button works
with Arduino is that when the button is pushed, the
voltage goes LOW. The Arduino reads this and reacts
accordingly. In this circuit, you will also use a pull-up
resistor, which helps clean up the voltage and prevents
false readings from the button.
GND
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
IC Button
Push
LED
X
21
10K
330
Resistor
X
18
330
Wire
Resistor
X
28
19
Wire
X
p.36
p.10
Circuit 5: Push Buttons
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Component:
How to use logic like a Vulcan:
Image Reference:
d4 g4
Push Button
d6 g6
d9 g9
Push Button
LED (5mm)
d11 g11
h20 h21
10K Resistor
i6 a15
+
10K Resistor
i11
330 Resistor
j21
Jumper Wire
i4
Jumper Wire
i9
Jumper Wire
+
+
One of the things that makes the Arduino so useful is that it can make complex decisions
based on the input it's getting. For example, you could make a thermostat that turns on a
heater if it gets too cold, a fan if it gets too hot, waters your plants if they get too dry, etc.
In order to make such decisions, the Arduino provides a set of logic operations that let you
build complex "if" statements. They include:
==
EQUIVALENCE
!=
DIFFERENCE
&&
AND
A && B is true if BOTH A and B are TRUE.
||
OR
A || B is true if A or B or BOTH are TRUE.
NOT
A == B is true if A and B are the SAME.

A != B is true if A and B are NOT THE SAME.
!A is TRUE if A is FALSE, and FALSE if A is TRUE.
You can combine these functions to build complex if() statements.

h6
Jumper Wire
h11
Jumper Wire
j20
For example:
if ((mode == heat) && ((temperature < threshold) || (override == true)))
{
digitalWrite(HEATER, HIGH);
}
...will turn on a heater if you're in heating mode AND the temperature is low, OR if you
turn on a manual override. Using these logic operators, you can program your Arduino to
make intelligent decisions and take control of the world around it!
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
pinMode(button2Pin, INPUT);
The digital pins can be used as inputs as well as

outputs. Before you do either, you need to tell the
Arduino which direction you're going.
button1State = digitalRead(button1Pin);
To read a digital input, you use the digitalRead()

function. It will return HIGH if there's 5V present at
the pin, or LOW if there's 0V present at the pin.
if (button1State == LOW)
Because we've connected the button to GND, it will read LOW

when it's being pressed. Here we're using the "equivalence"
operator ("==") to see if the button is being pressed.
What You Should See:

You should see the LED turn on
and off as you press the button. If
it isn't working, make sure you
have assembled the circuit correctly
and verified and uploaded the code
to your board or see the
troubleshooting tips below.
Troubleshooting:
Light Not Turning On

The pushbutton is square, and because of this it is easy to
put it in the wrong way. Give it a 90 degree twist and see
if it starts working.
The buttons we used here are similar to the buttons in

most videogame controllers.
Light Not Fading

A bit of a silly mistake we constantly made, when you
switch from simple on off to fading, remember to move
the LED wire from pin 13 to pin 9.
Underwhelmed
No worries, these circuits are all super stripped down to
make playing with the components easy, but once you
throw them together the sky is the limit.
Circuit 2
CIRCUIT
#6
Photo Resistor
Pin 9
+5 Volts
So youve already played with a potentiometer, which

varies resistance based on the twisting of a knob. In
this circuit, youll be using a photo resistor, which
changes resistance based on how much light the
sensor receives. Since the Arduino cant directly
interpret resistance (rather it reads voltage), we use a
voltage divider to use our photo resistor. This voltage
divider will output a high voltage when it is getting a
lot of light and a low voltage when it is not.
photo
resistor
LED
Pin A
resistor (330ohm)
resistor (10k ohm)

(Brown-Black-Orange)
GND
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
Photo Resistor
LED
X
330
Resistor
X
Wire
X
10K
Resistor
X
p.40
Circuit 6 : Photo Resistor
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Component:
Measuring resistive sensors:
Image Reference:
Photo Resistor
LED (5mm)
f5
f6
h20 h21
330 Resistor (sensor)
i21
10K Resistor
i1
i5
Jumper Wire
j1
Jumper Wire
A0
Jumper Wire
Many of the sensors you'll use (potentiometers, photoresistors, etc.) are

resistors in disguise. Their resistance changes in proportion to whatever
they're sensing (light level, etc.).
The Arduino's analog input pins measure voltage, not resistance. But we can
easily use resistive sensors with the Arduino by including them as part of a
"voltage divider".
5 volts
Pin
Pin 33
j5
j6
GND
Jumper Wire
j20
Jumper Wire
5V
Jumper Wire
GND
(ground) (-)
A voltage divider consists of two resistors. The "top" resistor is the sensor
you'll be using. The "bottom" one is a normal, fixed resistor. When you
connect the top resistor to 5 Volts, and the bottom resistor to ground, the
middle will output a voltage proportional to the values of the two resistors.
When one of the resistors changes (as it will when your sensor senses things),
the output voltage will change as well!
Although the sensor's resistance will vary, the resistive sensors (flex
sensor,light sensor, softpot, and trimpot) in the SIK are around 10K Ohms.
We usually want the fixed resistor to be close to this value, so using a 10K
resistor is a great choice for the fixed "bottom" resistor.
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
lightLevel = map(lightLevel, 0, 1023, 0, 255);
When we read an analog signal using analogRead(), it will

be a number from 0 to 1023. But when we want to drive a
PWM pin using analogWrite(), it wants a number from 0 to
255. We can "squeeze" the larger range into the smaller
range using the map() function.
lightLevel = constrain(lightLevel, 0, 255);
Because map() could still return numbers outside the "to"

range, we'll also use a function called constrain() that will
"clip" numbers into a range. If the number is outside the
range, it will make it the largest or smallest number. If it is
within the range, it will stay the same.

You should see the LED grow brighter
or dimmer in accordance with how
much light your photoresistor is
reading. If it isn't working, make sure
you have assembled the circuit
correctly and verified and uploaded
the code to your board or see the
Troubleshooting:
LED Remains Dark

This is a mistake we continue to make time and time
again, if only they could make an LED that worked both
ways. Pull it up and give it a twist.
A street lamp uses a light sensor to detect when to turn

the lights on at night.
It Isn't Responding to Changes in Light

Given that the spacing of the wires on the photo-resistor
is not standard, it is easy to misplace it. Double check its
in the right place.
Still Not Quite Working
You may be in a room which is either too bright or dark.
Try turning the lights on or off to see if this helps. Or if
you have a flashlight near by give that a try.
Circuit 2
CIRCUIT
#7
Temperature Sensor
5 Volts
A temperature sensor is exactly what it sounds like a

sensor used to measure ambient temperature. This
particular sensor has three pins a positive, a ground,
and a signal. For every centigrade degree it reads, it
outputs 10 millivolts. In this circuit, youll learn how to
integrate the temperature sensor with your Arduino,
and use the Arduino IDEs debug window to display
the temperature.
Pin A
+5v
signal
gnd
TMP36
(precision
temperature
sensor)
When youre building the circuit be careful

not to mix up the temperature sensor and the
transistor, theyre almost identical.
GND
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
Temp. Sensor
Wire
X
5
FRONT
BACK
p.44
Circuit 7: Temperature Sensor
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Component:
Opening your serial monitor:
Image Reference:
Temperature Sensor
f5
Jumper Wire
f6
f7
This circuit uses the Arduino IDE's serial monitor. To open this, first upload the
program then click the button which looks like a magnifying glass in a square.
j5
1
Jumper Wire
A0
Jumper Wire
j6
+
j7
Jumper Wire
5V
Jumper Wire
GND
+
3
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
Before using the serial monitor, you must call Serial.begin() to
initialize it. 9600 is the "baud rate", or communications speed.
When two devices are communicating with each other, both
must be set to the same speed.
Serial.begin(9600);
The Serial.print() command is very smart. It can print out almost

anything you can throw at it, including variables of all types,
quoted text (AKA "strings"), etc.
Serial.print(degreesC);
See http://arduino.cc/en/Serial/Print for more info.
Serial.print() will print everything on the same line. Serial.println()

will move to the next line. By using both of these commands
together, you can create easy-to-read printouts of text and data.
Serial.println(degreesF);

You should see be able to read the
temperature your temperature
sensor is detecting on the serial
monitor in the Arduino IDE. If it
isn't working, make sure you have
assembled the circuit correctly and
verified and uploaded the code to
your board or see the troubleshooting tips below.
voltage: 0.73 deg C: 22.75 deg F: 72.96

Troubleshooting:
Nothing Seems to Happen

This program has no outward indication it is working. To
see the results you must open the Arduino IDE's serial
monitor (instructions on previous page).
Building climate control systems use a temperature sensor

to monitor and maintain their settings.
Gibberish is Displayed
This happens because the serial monitor is receiving data at
a different speed than expected. To fix this, click the
pull-down box that reads "*** baud" and change it to
"9600 baud".
Temperature Value is Unchanging
Try pinching the sensor with your fingers to heat it up or
pressing a bag of ice against it to cool it down.
Circuit 2
CIRCUIT
#8
A Single Servo
Pin 9
Mini Servo
signal
(white)
+5v
gnd
(red)
Servos are ideal for embedded electronics applications

because they do one thing very well that spinning motors
cannot they can move to a position accurately. By
varying the pulse of voltage a servo receives, you can
move a servo to a specific position. For example, a pulse
of 1.5 milliseconds will move the servo 90 degrees. In this
circuit, youll learn how to use PWM (pulse width
modulation) to control and rotate a servo.
(black)
GND
+5 volts
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
Servo
(5V)
Wire
X
p.48
Circuit 8: A Single Servo
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Component:
Expand your horizons using Libraries:
Image Reference:
Servo
e5 e6 e7
Jumper Wire
e5
Jumper Wire
e6
Jumper Wire
e7
Jumper Wire
b5
Jumper Wire
a6
Jumper Wire
Libraries are collections of new commands that have been packaged together to make it easy
to include them in your sketches. Arduino comes with a handful of useful libraries, such as
the servo library used in this example, that can be used to interface to more advanced
devices (LCD displays, stepper motors, ethernet ports, etc.)
See http: //arduino.cc/en/Reference/Libraries for a list of the standard libraries and
information on using them.
a7
Jumper Wire
5V
Arduino gives you a very useful set of built-in commands for doing basic input and output,
making decisions using logic, solving math problems, etc. But the real power of Arduino is
the huge community using it, and their willingness to share their work.
But anyone can create a library, and if you want to use a new sensor or output device,
chances are that someone out there has already written one that interfaces that device to the
Arduino. Many of SparkFun's products come with Arduino libraries, and you can find even
more using Google and the Arduino Playground at http://arduino.cc/playground/. And
when YOU get the Arduino working with a new device, consider making a library for it and
sharing it with the world!
+
To use a library in a sketch, select it from Sketch > Import Library.

File
Edit Sketch
Tools
Help
Verify / Compile
Jumper Wire
GND
Show Sketch Folder

Add File...
Import Library
EEPROM
Ethernet
Firmata
LiquidCrystal
SD
Servo
SoftwareSerial
SPI
Stepper
Wire
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
#include is a special "preprocessor" command that inserts a library
(or any other file) into your sketch. You can type this command
yourself, or choose an installed library from the "sketch / import
library" menu.
#include <Servo.h>
Servo servo1;
servo1.attach(9);
servo1.write(180);
The servo library adds new commands that let you control a servo.
To prepare the Arduino to control a servo, you must first create a
Servo "object" for each servo (here we've named it "servo1"), and
then "attach" it to a digital pin (here we're using pin 9).
Servos don't spin all the way around, but they can be commanded to move to
a specific position. We use the servo library's write() command to move a
servo to a specified number of degrees(0 to 180). Remember that the servo
requires time to move, so give it a short delay() if necessary.

You should see your servo motor move to
various locations at several speeds. If the
motor doesn't move, check your
connections and make sure you have
verified and uploaded the code, or see the
Troubleshooting:
Servo Not Twisting

Even with colored wires it is still shockingly easy to plug a
servo in backward. This might be the case.
Robotic arms you might see in an assembly line or sci-fi

movie probably have servos in them.
Still Not Working

A mistake we made a time or two was simply forgetting
to connect the power (red and brown wires) to +5 volts
and ground.
Fits and Starts
If the servo begins moving then twitches, and there's a
flashing light on your Arduino board, the power supply
you are using is not quite up to the challenge. Using a
wall adapter instead of USB should solve this problem.
CIRCUIT #9
Flex Sensor
+5 volts
(5V)
Pin A
resistor
(10K ohm)
(Brown-Black-Orange)
flex
sensor
+5 volts
(5V)
Pin 9
In this circuit, we will use a flex sensor to measure,

well, flex! A flex sensor uses carbon on a strip of
plastic to act like a variable resistor, but instead of
changing the resistance by turning a knob, you
change it by flexing (bending) the component. We
use a "voltage divider" again to detect this change in
resistance. The sensor bends in one direction and the
more it bends, the higher the resistance gets; it has a
range from about 10K ohm to 35K ohm. In this
circuit we will use the amount of bend of the flex
sensor to control the position of a servo.
Mini Servo
GND
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
Flex
IC Sensor
Potentiometer
Servo
LED
11
X X
33010K
Resistor
Resistor
X
Wire
X
8 X1
11
p.10
p.52
Circuit 9: Flex Sensor
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a b c d e
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Component:
Debugging your sketches using the Serial Monitor:
Image Reference:
Servo
e1 e2 e3
Jumper Wire
e1
Jumper Wire
e2
Jumper Wire
e3
Flex Sensor
h19 h20
10K Resistor
i20 i24
Jumper Wire
i19
Jumper Wire
A0
The key to visibility into a microcontroller is output. This can be almost anything,
including LEDs and buzzers, but one of the most useful tools is the serial monitor.
Using Serial.print() and println(), you can easily output human-readable text and
data from the Arduino to a window back on the host computer. This is great for your
sketch's final output, but it's also incredibly useful for debugging.
h24 +
Jumper Wire
b1 +
h24
Jumper Wire
a2 +
h24
Jumper Wire
a3
5V
Jumper Wire
GND
for (x = 0; x < 8; x++)

{
Serial.print(x);
}
Let's say you wanted a for() loop from 1 to 8,

but your code just doesn't seem to be working
right. Just add Serial.begin(9600); to your
setup() function, and add a Serial.print() or
println() to your loop:
j20
Jumper Wire
Jumper Wire
It happens to everyone - you write a sketch which successfully compiles and uploads,
but you can't figure out why it's not doing what you want it to. Larger computers
have screens, keyboards, and mice that you can use to debug your code, but tiny
computers like the Arduino have no such things.
You wanted 1 to 8, but the loop is actually giving you

0 to 7. Whoops! Now you just need to fix the loop.
01234567
for (x = 1 ; x < 9 ; x++)

{
Serial.print(x);
}
And if you run the code again, you'll see the

output you wanted:
12345678
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
servoposition = map(flexposition, 600, 900, 0, 180);
Serial.print("sensor: ");
Serial.print(flexposition);
Serial.print(" servo: ");
Serial.println(servoposition);
Because the flex sensor / resistor combination won't

give us a full zero to five-volt range, we're using the
map() function as a handy way to reduce that range.
Here we've told it to only expect values from 600 to
900, rather than 0 to 1023.
Because map() could still return numbers outside the "to"

range, we'll also use a function called constrain() that will
"clip" numbers into a range. If the number is outside the
range, it will make it the largest or smallest number. If it is
within the range, it will stay the same.

You should see the servo motor move
in accordance with how much you
are flexing the flex sensor. If it isn't
working, make sure you have
your board or see the troubleshooting
tips below.
Troubleshooting:
Servo Not Twisting

Even with colored wires it is still shockingly easy to plug a
servo in backwards. This might be the case.
Controller accessories for videogame consoles like

Nintendos Power Glove use flex-sensing technology. It
was the first video game controller attempting to mimic
hand movement on a screen in real time.
Servo Not Moving as Expected

The sensor is only designed to work in one direction. Try
flexing it the other way (where the striped side faces
out on a convex curve).
Servo Doesnt Move very Far
You need to modify the range of values in the call to the
map() function.
Circuit 2
CIRCUIT
#5
#10
Pin 0
Pin
A
Soft Potentiometer
10
+5 volts
resistor (10K ohm)
In this circuit, we are going to use yet another kind of

variable resistor this time, a soft potentiometer (or
soft pot). This is a thin and flexible strip that can
detect where pressure is being applied. By pressing
down on various parts of the strip, you can vary the
resistance from 100 to 10K ohms. You can use this
ability to track movement on the soft pot, or simply
as a button. In this circuit, well get the soft pot up
and running to control an RGB LED.
gnd
V+
Brown-Black-Orange)
Pin 9
green
Pin 11
red
Pin 10
soft pot
wiper
GND
blue
(ground) (-)
resistor (330ohm)
PARTS:
LED
IC
330
LED
Soft Potentiometer
Resistor
X
Wire
330
Resistor
318
330
Resistor
X
10K
Resistor
X
p.10
p.56
Circuit 10: Soft Potentiometer
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Component:
Image Reference:
Component:
RGB LED (5mm)
a4 a5 a6 a7
Jumper Wire
5V
Jumper Wire
GND
Soft Potentiometer
5V
h18 h19 h20
330 Resistor
5V
e4 eg4
e7
11
330 Resistor
5V
e6 eg6
e7
11
330 Resistor
5V
e7 eg7
11
i19
10K Resistor
Jumper Wire
h4
Jumper Wire
e5
Jumper Wire
h6
Jumper Wire
h7 +
Jumper Wire
Jumper Wire
Jumper Wire
j18
A0
Image Reference:
j19
j20
10
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
redValue = constrain(map(RGBposition, 0, 341, 255, 0), 0, 255)

+ constrain(map(RGBposition, 682, 1023, 0, 255), 0, 255);
greenValue = constrain(map(RGBposition, 0, 341, 0, 255), 0, 255)

- constrain(map(RGBposition, 341, 682, 0,255), 0, 255);
blueValue = constrain(map(RGBposition, 341, 682, 0, 255), 0, 255)

- constrain(map(RGBposition, 682, 1023, 0, 255), 0, 255);
These big, scary functions take a

single Value (RGBposition) and
calculate the three RGB values
necessary to create a rainbow of
color. The functions create three
"peaks" for the red, green, and blue
values, which overlap to mix and
create new colors. Even if you're
not 100% clear how it works, you
can copy and paste this (or any)
function into your own code and
use it yourself.

You should see the RGB LED change
colors in accordance with how you
interact with the soft potentiometer.
If it isn't working, make sure you
have assembled the circuit correctly
and verified and uploaded the code to
your board, or see the troubleshooting tips below.
Troubleshooting:
LED Remains Dark or Shows Incorrect Color

With the four pins of the LED so close together, its
sometimes easy to misplace one. Try double checking each
pin is where it should be.
The knobs found on many objects, like a radio for

instance, are using similar concepts to the one you just
completed for this circuit.
Bizarre Results
The most likely cause of this is if youre pressing the
potentiometer in more than one position. This is normal
and can actually be used to create some neat results.
Circuit 2
CIRCUIT
#11
Buzzer
Pin 9
Piezo
Element
11
In this circuit, we'll again bridge the gap between the

digital world and the analog world. We'll be using a
buzzer that makes a small "click" when you apply
voltage to it (try it!). By itself that isn't terribly
exciting, but if you turn the voltage on and off
hundreds of times a second, the buzzer will produce a
tone. And if you string a bunch of tones together,
you've got music! This circuit and sketch will play a
classic tune. We'll never let you down!
GND
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
Piezo Element
Wire
X
p.60
Circuit 11: Piezo Elements
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Component:
Creating your own functions:
Image Reference:
Piezo Element
j9
Jumper Wire
i7
j7
Jumper Wire
j9
Jumper Wire
5V
Jumper Wire
GND
Arduino contains a wealth of built-in functions that are useful for all kinds of things.
(See http://arduino.cc/en/Reference for a list). But you can also easily create your
own functions. Here's a simple example named "add", which adds two numbers
together and returns the result. Let's break it down.
int add(int parameter1, int parameter2)
{
int x;
x = parameter1 + parameter2;
}
return(x);
Your functions can take in values ("parameters"), and return a value, as this one does.
But you can also do either or none of those things, if you wish.
If you'll be passing parameters /to/ your function, put them (and their types) in the
parentheses after the function name. If you won't be giving your function any
parameters, just use an empty parenthesis () after the name.
If you'll be returning a value /from/ your function, put the type of the return value in
front of the function name. Then in your function, when you're ready to return the
value, put in a return() statement. If you won't be returning a value, put "void" in
front of the function name (just like you've already seen for the setup() and loop()
functions).
When you write your own functions, you make your code neater and easier to re-use.
11
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
char notes[] = "cdfda ag cdfdg gf ";

char names[] = {'c','d','e','f','g','a','b','C'};
tone(pin, frequency, duration);
Up until now we've been working solely with numerical

data, but the Arduino can also work with text. Characters
(single, printable, letters, numbers and other symbols) have
their own type, called "char". When you have an array of
characters, it can be defined between double-quotes (also
called a "string"), OR as a list of single-quoted characters.
One of Arduino's many useful built-in commands is the
tone() function. This function drives an output pin at a
certain frequency, making it perfect for driving buzzers and
speakers. If you give it a duration (in milliseconds), it will
play the tone then stop. If you don't give it a duration, it
will keep playing the tone forever (but you can stop it with
another function, noTone() ).

You should see - well, nothing!
But you should be able to hear
you piezo element playing
"Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" (or
possibly, "The ABCs"). If it isn't
working, make sure you have
your board or see the
Troubleshooting:
No Sound
Given the size and shape of the piezo element it is easy to
miss the right holes on the breadboard. Try double
checking its placement.
Many modern megaphones have settings that use a loud

amplified buzzer. They are usually very loud and quite
good at getting peoples attention.
Can't Think While the Melody is Playing

Just pull up the piezo element whilst you think, upload
your program then plug it back in.
Tired of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
The code is written so you can easily add your own songs.
12
Circuit 2
CIRCUIT
#12
Spinning a Motor
Pin 9
Remember before when you played around with a servo

motor? Now we are going to tackle spinning a motor.
This requires the use of a transistor, which can switch a
larger amount of current than the Arduino can. When
using a transistor, you just need to make sure its
maximum specs are high enough for your use. The
transistor we are using for this circuit is rated at 40V max
and 200 milliamps max perfect for our toy motor!
resistor (330ohm)
base
transistor
P2N2222AG
emitter
collector
motor
multimeter
diode
GND
(ground) (-)
When youre building the circuit be careful

not to mix up the transistor and the
temperature sensor, theyre almost identical.
+5 volts
Transistor
Diode
P2N2222AG
DC Motor
1N4148
330
Resistor
X
P2N2
222A
A18
Wire
FRONT
P2N2
222A
A18
PARTS:
(5V)
BACK
p.64
Circuit 12 : Spinning a Motor
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Transistor P2N2222AG
Putting it all together:
Image Reference:
P2N2
222A
A18
Component:
a1 a2 a3
Diode 1N4148
GND
b7
b11
a3
At this point you're probably starting to get your own ideas for circuits that do fun
things, or help solve a real problem. Excellent! Here are some tips on programming in
general.
Most of the sketches you write will be a loop with some or all of these steps:
DC Motor
330 Resistor
e7 e11
5V
Jumper Wire
e2 eg2
e7
11
We've already shown you how to use a bunch of different input sensors and output
devices (and we still have a few more to go). Feel free to make use of the examples in
your own sketches - this is the whole idea behind the "Open Source" movement.
e1
Jumper Wire
j2
Jumper Wire
a7
Jumper Wire
e3 d11
Jumper Wire
5V
Jumper Wire
GND
1. Perform some sort of input

2. Make some calculations or decisions
3. Perform some sort of output
4. Repeat! (Or not!)
It's usually pretty easy to pull pieces of different sketches together, just open them in
two windows, and copy and paste between them. This is one of the reasons we've
been promoting "good programming habits". Things like using constants for pin
numbers, and breaking your sketch into functions, make it much easier to re-use your
code in new sketches. For example, if you pull in two pieces of code that use the same
pin, you can easily change one of the constants to a new pin. (Don't forget that not
all of the pins support analogWrite(); the compatible pins are marked on your board.)
If you need help, there are internet forums where you can ask questions. Try
Arduino's forum at arduino.cc/forum, and SparkFun's at forum.sparkfun.com.
When you're ready to move to more advanced topics, take a look at Arduino's
tutorials page at arduino.cc/en/Tutorial. Many of SparkFun's more advanced
products were programmed with Arduino, (allowing you to easily modify them), or
have Arduino examples for them. See our product pages for info.
Finally, when you create something really cool, consider sharing it with the world so
that others can learn from your genius. (And be sure to let us know so we can put it
on our home page!)
12
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
while (Serial.available() > 0)
The Arduino's serial port can be used to receive as well as

send data. Because data could arrive at any time, the Arduino
stores, or "buffers" data coming into the port until you're
ready to use it. The Serial.available() command returns the
number of characters that the port has received, but haven't
been used by your sketch yet. Zero means no data has arrived.
speed = Serial.parseInt();
If the port has data waiting for you, there are a number of
ways for you to use it. Since we're typing numbers into the
port, we can use the handy Serial.parseInt() command to
extract, or "parse" integer numbers from the characters it's
received. If you type "1" "0" "0" to the port, this function
will return the number 100.

The DC Motor should spin if you have
assembled the circuits components correctly,
and also verified/uploaded the correct code. If
your circuit is not working check the
troubleshooting section below.
Troubleshooting:
Motor Not Spinning
If you sourced your own transistor, double check with
the data sheet that the pinout is compatible with a
P2N2222AG (many are reversed).
Still No Luck
If you sourced your own motor, double check that it will
work with 5 volts and that it does not draw too much
power.
Still Not Working
Sometimes the Arduino board will disconnect from the
computer. Try un-plugging and then re-plugging it into
your USB port.

Radio Controlled(RC) cars use Direct Current(DC)
motors to turn the wheels for propulsion.
13
5
Circuit 2
CIRCUIT
#5
#13
Pin 2
Relays
resistor (330ohm)
base
5 volts
In this circuit, we are going to use some of the lessons we

learned in circuit 12 to control a relay. A relay is basically
an electrically controlled mechanical switch. Inside that
harmless looking plastic box is an electromagnet that,
when it gets a jolt of energy, causes a switch to trip. In
this circuit, youll learn how to control a relay like a pro
giving your Arduino even more powerful abilities!
transistor
P2N2222AG
emitter
collector
resistor
(330ohm)
com
coil
diode
(flyback)
NC
NO
LED
When the relay is off, the COM (common)

pin will be connected to the NC (Normally
Closed) pin. When the relay is on, the COM
(common) pin will be connected to the NO
(Normally Open) pin.
LED
5 volts
GND
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
IC
Relay
Transistor
LED
Diode
P2N2222AG
X
330
Resistor
1N4148
X
LED
X
Wire
X
14
p.10
p.68
Circuit 13: Relays
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Component:
Image Reference:
Component:
e9 f9
Relay
Jumper Wire
f7
f5 f6e19
e15
a2 a3 a4
Jumper Wire
+ e19
e15
c19 c20
Jumper Wire
+ e19
+
a23
e15
c22 c23
Jumper Wire
+
a20
b14 e19
GND
b7
b11
a3
Jumper Wire
a7 a9
e4 e9
e15 f15
P2N2
222A
A18
Transistor P2N2222AG
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
Diode 1N4148
Image Reference:
330 Resistor
5V
e3 eg3
e7
11
Jumper Wire
330 Resistor
5V
e2 eg2
e7
11
Jumper Wire
5V
e2
Jumper Wire
GND
Jumper Wire
Jumper Wire
j3
Jumper Wire
j5
j7
j9
Jumper Wire
h9
Jumper Wire
i13 e22
Jumper Wire
i15 e19
13
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
digitalWrite(relayPin, HIGH);
When we turn on the transistor, which in turn energizes

the relay's coil, the relay's switch contacts are closed. This
connects the relay's COM pin to the NO (Normally Open)
pin. Whatever you've connected using these pins will turn
on. (Here we're using LEDs, but this could be almost anything.)
digitalWrite(relayPin, LOW);
The relay has an additional contact called NC (Normally

Closed). The NC pin is connected to the COM pin when
the relay is OFF. You can use either pin depending on
whether something should be normally on or normally off.
You can also use both pins to alternate power to two
devices, much like railroad crossing warning lights.

You should be able to hear the
relay contacts click, and see the
two LEDs alternate illuminating
at 1-second intervals. If you
don't, double-check that you
have assembled the circuit
correctly, and uploaded the
correct sketch to the board. Also,
Troubleshooting:
LEDs Not Lighting

Double-check that you've plugged them in correctly. The
longer lead (and non-flat edge of the plastic flange) is the
positive lead.
Garage door openers use relays to operate. You might be

able to hear the clicking if you listen closely.
No Clicking Sound
The transistor or coil portion of the circuit isn't quite
working. Check the transistor is plugged in the right way.
Not Quite Working
The included relays are designed to be soldered rather than
used in a breadboard. As such you may need to press it in
to ensure it works (and it may pop out occasionally).
14
Circuit 2
CIRCUIT
#14
Shift Register
+5 volts
+5 volts
resistors (330ohm)
Now we are going to step into the world of ICs (integrated

circuits). In this circuit, youll learn all about using a shift
register (also called a serial-to-parallel controller). The shift
register will give your Arduino an additional eight outputs,
using only three pins on your board. For this circuit, youll
practice by using the shift register to control eight LEDs.
LEDs
15 16 10
1
11
12
14
Pin 3
44
Pin
clock
latch
Pin 2
data
4
5
6
7
13
GND
PARTS:
(ground) (-)
IC
LED
X
330
Resistor
X
Wire
X
19
VCC
QB
16
QC
15
QA
QD
14
SER
QE
13
OE
QF
12
RCLK
QG
11
SRCLK
QH
10
SRCLR
GND
QH
Align notch on top,

inbetween e5 and f5 on
the breadboard.
Bend legs to 90 angle.
p.72
Circuit 14: Shift Register
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Component:
Image Reference:
Component:
e5 e6 e7 e8 e9 e10 e11 e12
IC
Jumper Wire
GND
+
+
a3
c14 c15
Jumper Wire
GND
j5
+
a3
c17 c18
Jumper Wire
GND
j6
a14
a3
c20 c21
Jumper Wire
c23 c24
Jumper Wire
h14 h15
Jumper Wire
j9
h17 h18
Jumper Wire
j10
h20 h21
Jumper Wire
GND
j11
+
a14
a3
h23 h24
Jumper Wire
GND
f14
a8
a3
a15
a3
Jumper Wire
GND
f17
a9
a3
f5 f6 f7 f8 f9 f10 f11 f12
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
LED (5mm)
Image Reference:
330 Resistor
j7
GND
j8
a14
a3
330 Resistor
GND
c23
a18
a3
Jumper Wire
GND
f20
a
10
a3
330 Resistor
GND
c23
a21
a3
Jumper Wire
GND
f23
a
11
a3
330 Resistor
GND
c23
a24
a3
Jumper Wire
GND
a23
a7
a3
330 Resistor
GND
j15
c24
a3
Jumper Wire
GND
a20
a6
a3
330 Resistor
GND
j18
c24
a3
Jumper Wire
GND
a17
a5
a3
330 Resistor
GND
j21
c24
a3
Jumper Wire
GND
a14
j6
a3
330 Resistor
GND
j24
c24
a3
Jumper Wire
5V
Jumper Wire
GND
+
+
a3
Jumper Wire
GND
+
j10
14
Arduino Code:
Circuit 2
Code to Note:
You'll communicate with the shift register (and a lot of other parts)
using an interface called SPI, or Serial Peripheral Interface. This
shiftOut(datapin, clockpin, MSBFIRST, data);
interface uses a data line and a separate clock line that work together
to move data in or out of the Arduino at high speed. The MSBFIRST
parameter specifies the order in which to send the individual bits, in
this case we're sending the Most Significant Bit first.
Bits are the smallest possible piece of memory in a computer; each

one can store either a "1" or a "0". Larger numbers are stored as arrays
bitWrite(data,desiredPin,desiredState);
of bits. Sometimes we want to manipulate these bits directly, for

example now when we're sending eight bits to the shift register and
we want to make them 1 or 0 to turn the LEDs on or off. The Arduino
has several commands, such as bitWrite(), that make this easy to do.

You should see the LEDs light up
similarly to in circuit 4 (but this
time, you're using a shift register).
If they aren't, make sure you have
assembled the circuit correctly
and verified and uploaded the
code to your board, or see the
Troubleshooting:
The Arduino's power LED goes out

This happened to us a couple of times, it happens when
the chip is inserted backward. If you fix it quickly
nothing will break.
Similar to circuit #4, a scrolling marquee display delivers

a mesage with multiple LEDs. Essentially the same task
the shift register achieves here in Circuit #14.
Not Quite Working

Sorry to sound like a broken record but it is probably
something as simple as a crossed wire.
Frustration
Shoot us an e-mail, this circuit is both simple and
complex at the same time. We want to hear about
problems you have so we can address them in future
editions: techsupport@sparkfun.com
Learning More
Visit us Online:
This is just the beginning of your exploration into
embedded electronics and coding. Our website has a
wealth of tutorials to whet your appetite for more
knowledge. We also host a community of hackers,
engineers, DIYers, etc. in our forums. So log on to our
website for more information about Arduino, or to plan
ahead for your next project!
sparkfun.com
NOTES:
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported License.
To view a copy of this license visit:
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/
Or send a letter to:
Creative Commons, 171 Second Street, Suite 300, San Francisco, California 94105, USA.

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SIK GUIDE

Your Guide to the SparkFun Inventors Kit for Arduino

Getting Started with Arduino

Download Arduino Software (IDE)

Install Drivers for Arduino

Identify your Arduino

Download SIK Guide Code

Getting Started with Circuits

Circuit #1 - Your First Circuit: Blinking a LED

Circuit #3 - RGB LED

Circuit #4 - Multiple LEDs

Circuit #5 - Push Buttons

Circuit #6 - Photo Resistor

Circuit #7 - Temperature Sensor

Circuit #8 - A Single Servo

Circuit #9 - Flex Sensor

Circuit #10 - Soft Potentiometer

Circuit #11 - Piezo Element

Circuit #12 - Spinning a Motor

Circuit #13 - Relay

Circuit #14 - Shift Register

A Computer for the Physical World

// Arduino UNO SMD R3

Bug Zapper Counter

Camera Time-lapse operation

Old Toy Email Notifer

Power-Lacing High Tops

Re-Programmed Traffic Light

Download the Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment)

In order to get your Arduino up and running, you'll need to

< case sensitive >

Click on the + sign next to your

appropriate computer operating system.

// Connect your Arduino Uno to your Computer

Windows Installation Process

Macintosh OS X Installation Process

Linux: 32 bit / 64 bit, Installation Process

// Open the Arduino IDE:

GUI (Graphical User Interface)

// See Diagram Below

// Select your board: Arduino Uno

// Select your Serial Device

Select the serial device of the Arduino board from

Select the serial device of the Arduino board from

// Copy SIK Guide Code into Examples library in Arduino folder

Unzip the file SIK Guide Code.

Copy the SIK Guide Code folder into Arduinos

Unzip the file SIK Guide Code.

Find Arduino in your applications

Copy the SIK Guide Code folder

Getting Started with Circuits

The World Runs on Circuits:

// Simple and Complex Circuits

(Light Emitting Diode)

5 LED (Pin 13: Troubleshooting)

= PWM/Analog out compatible (i.e.

Hows it all connected?

View of the inside

Inside the breadboard