What is Arduino?
Key Takeaways
What is Arduino? Arduino is a micro-controller that’s great for hardware prototyping. A micro-controller is kind of like your brain — it processes inputs and sends out outputs.
A micro-controller (noun) is a small computer on a single integrated circut containing a processor core, memory, and programmable input/output peripherals.
With a micro-controller like Arduino, you can control circuits, LED’s, and so much more.
Examples of What You Can Make with Arduino:
- An Automated Cat Feeder (by Jan Klomp)
- A Tango DRN Arduino controlled drone (by Fabricio Constantin)
- A mind-controlled meditation visualization with Project Uplift (by Zach Valenti)
- Auto Ink (by Chris Eckert)
- And so much more!
How to Get Started with Arduino and Micro-Controllers Today:
The possibilities are endless with prototyping hardware — it has a low barrier to entry and a really high ceiling. Take a look through some of these beginner projects and the online community around Arduino to start learning how to build your own projects!
- Getting Started with Arduino: What it is, why you’d want to use it, and an overview of the community (5 minutes).
- Foundations: Dig in a littler further and understand the elements of Arduino hardware and software, and how each of the components work (8–10 minutes).
Additional Resources
- Examples of the Arduino Core functions and Libraries (Arduino’s website)
- History of Arduino (Wikipedia)
- The Playground, where Arduino users can contribute to projects and learn from each other.
- Arduino on Twitter.
