Beginner’s Guide to Arduino Nano Board

20th June 2024 Harshvardhan Mishra

Know about Arduino Nano

It’s constructed around a bitsy Arduino Nano board. Boards for microcontrollers ArduinoNano3.x ATmega328P; ArduinoNano2.x ATmega168. It is intended for wearable and embedded applications. Its simplicity and versatility make it appropriate for novices.

Features and Specifications

– Microcontroller: Nano 3.x ATmega328P or Nano 2.x ATmega168

– Operating Voltage: 5V

– Input Voltage (recommended): 7-12V

– Digital I/O Pins: 14 of which six have a PWM output

– Analog Input Pins: 8

– DC Current per I/O Pin: 40 mA

– Flash Memory: 32 KB (ATmega328P) of which 2 KB used by bootloader

– SRAM: 2 KB (ATmega328P)

– EEPROM: 1 KB (ATmega328P)

– Clock Speed: 16 MHz

– Dimensions: 18 x 45 m

Comparison with Other Arduino Boards

The Arduino Nano and other well- known Arduino boards, including the Uno and Mega, differ significantly in a many crucial ways. It shares the same ATmega328P microprocessor as the Uno, but it features a simpler USB harborage and a larger point set. Because of its around68.6×53.4 mm confines, it’s less applicable for lower operations.

The microprocessor of the Arduino Mega can support up to 54 digital I/ O pins and 16 analog inputs. It’s designed for further intricate operations that need a lot of pins. Given that it is 3mm, a lot more room is needed. The Nano is smaller and less expensive than the Mega, but having less I/O capacity. It is therefore lightweight and appropriate for basic usage. where budget and available space play key roles. Each board serves distinct needs, with the Nano excelling in small-scale, space-conscious projects.

Setting Up Arduino Nano

1. Download and Install the Arduino IDE:

– [go to https://www.arduino.cc/en/Main/Software, the Arduino software page]

– Download the Arduino IDE (Windows, macOS, Linux) that is compatible with your operating system.

– Install the program by following the directions found online.

2. Connect the Arduino Nano:

– To link the Arduino Nano to your PC, use a USB mini-B cable.

– The green power LED (labeled PWR) should light up.

3. Select the Board and Port:

– Open the Arduino IDE.

– Go to `Tools` > `Board` and select `Arduino Nano`.

– Go to `Tools` > `Port` and select the COM port to which your Arduino Nano is connected.

Writing Your First Program (Blink)

1. Open the Blink Example:

– In the Arduino IDE, go to `File` > `Examples` > `01.Basics` > `Blink`.

2. Understanding the Code:

3. Upload the Program:

– Click the upload button (right arrow icon) in the Arduino IDE.

– The IDE will compile the code and upload it to the Arduino Nano.

– The onboard LED should start blinking on and off at one-second intervals.

Basic Projects and Experiments

1. LED Blink with External LED:

– Attach the LED to GND and digital pin 13.

– Pin 13 should be used as the flashing code instead of “LED_BUILTIN”.

2. Button Press Detection:

– Connect a button between digital pin 2 and GND.

– Alternately, you can activate the inbuilt pull-up resistor by setting ‘pinMode(buttonPin, INPUT_PULLUP);’.

– Write code to detect button presses and control an LED.

3. Analog Sensor Reading:

– Attach the potentiometer to the wiper analogue pin (A0, for example).

– Use `analogueRead(A0);} to read the analogue readings, then display the results to the serial monitor.

Advanced Topics

Interrupts and Timers:

Timers and interrupts are crucial for enhancing embedded systems’ performance. The microcontroller can quickly complete high-priority operations thanks to interrupts. As such, you can count on a prompt answer. Task scheduling and interval measuring are two examples of time-based tasks that are carefully managed using timers. Effective use of these tools enhances system efficiency and reliability.

Using Libraries for Expanded Functionality:

Libraries significantly expand embedded systems’ functionality by providing pre-written code for various tasks. They simplify integrating complex features like sensor management and communication protocols. Developers are able to concentrate on the particular needs of the project by using libraries. This guarantees a strong and effective system architecture.

Wireless Communication (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi):

Bluetooth and Wi- Fi are two exemplifications of wireless communication technologies that are essential to contemporary bedded systems. IoT devices and other short-range, low-power applications benefit greatly from Bluetooth’s increased range and faster data rates. Ideal for applications with an Internet connection These technologies make it possible to create flexible, networked systems that can be remotely monitored and controlled.

Troubleshooting Tips

No COM Port Detected:

– Check the USB connection and try a different cable.

– Ensure the correct drivers are installed (Windows may need CH340 drivers for clones).

Upload Errors:

– Make sure the correct board and port are selected.

– Reset the board manually just before uploading if required.

Board Not Working:

– Check for correct power supply and voltage levels.

– Verify connections and look for shorts or damaged components.

Beginners can begin experimenting with the wide world of Arduino projects by using this guide, which will help them build the groundwork for future concepts that will be more intricate and imaginative.