The Elektor MultiCalculator Kit is an Arduino-based multifunction calculator that goes beyond basic calculations. It offers 22 functions including light and temperature measurement, differential temperature analysis, and NEC IR remote control decoding. The Elektor MultiCalculator is a handy tool for use in your projects or for educational purposes.
The kit features a Pro Mini module as the computing unit. The PCB is easy to assemble using through-hole components. The enclosure consists of 11 acrylic panels and mounting materials for easy assembly. Additionally, the device is equipped with a 16x2 alphanumeric LCD, 20 buttons, and temperature sensors.
The Elektor MultiCalculator is programmable with the Arduino IDE through a 6-way PCB header. The available software is bilingual (English and Dutch). The calculator can be programmed with a programming adapter, and it is powered through USB-C.
Modes of Operation
Calculator
4-Ring Resistor Code
5-Ring Resistor Code
Decimal to Hexadecimal and Character (ASCII) conversion
Hexadecimal to Decimal and Character (ASCII) conversion
Decimal to Binary and Character (ASCII) conversion
Binary to Decimal and Hexadecimal conversion
Hz, nF, capacitive reactance (XC) calculation
Hz, µH, inductive reactance (XL) calculation
Resistance calculation of two resistors connected in parallel
Resistance calculation of two resistors connected in series
Calculation of unknown parallel resistor
Temperature measurement
Differential temperature measurement T1&T2 and Delta (δ)
Light measurement
Stopwatch with lap time function
Item counter
NEC IR remote control decoding
AWG conversion (American Wire Gauge)
Rolling Dice
Personalize startup message
Temperature calibration
Specifications
Menu languages: English, Dutch
Dimensions: 92 x 138 x 40 mm
Build time: approx. 5 hours
Included
PCB and though-hole components
Precut acrylic sheets with all mechanical parts
Pro Mini microcontroller module (ATmega328/5 V/16 MHz)
Programming adapter
Waterproof temperature sensors
USB-C cable
Downloads
Software
This USB Stick contains more than 300 Arduino-related articles published in Elektor Magazine. The content includes both background articles and projects on the following topics:
Software & hardware development: Tutorials on Arduino software development using Arduino IDE, Atmel Studio, Shields, and essential programming concepts.
Learning: The Microcontroller Bootcamp offers a structured approach to programming embedded systems.
Data acquisition & measurement: Projects such as a 16-bit data logger, lathe tachometer, and an AC grid analyzer for capturing and analyzing real-time signals.
Wireless communication: Learn how to implement wireless networks, create an Android interface, and communicate effectively with microcontrollers.
Robotics and automation: This covers the Arduino Nano Robot Controller, supporting boards for automation, and explores various Arduino shields to enhance functionality.
Self-build projects: Unique projects such as laser projection, Numitron clock and thermometer, ELF receiver, Theremino, and touch LED interfaces highlight creative applications.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced maker, this collection is a valuable resource for learning, experimenting, and pushing the boundaries of Arduino technology.
The Elektor Arduino Nano MCCAB Training Board contains all the components (incl. Arduino Nano) required for the exercises in the "Microcontrollers Hands-on Course for Arduino Starters", such as light-emitting diodes, switches, pushbuttons, acoustic signal transmitters, etc. External sensors, motors or assemblies can also be queried or controlled with this microcontroller training system.
Specifications (Arduino Nano MCCAB Training Board)
Power Supply
Via the USB connection of the connected PC or an external power supply unit (not included)
Operating Voltage
+5 Vcc
Input Voltage
All inputs
0 V to +5 V
VX1 and VX2
+8 V to +12 V (only when using an external power supply)
Hardware periphery
LCD
2x16 characters
Potentiometer P1 & P2
JP3: selection of operating voltage of P1 & P2
Distributor
SV4: Distributor for the operating voltagesSV5, SV6: Distributor for the inputs/outputs of the microcontroller
Switches and buttons
RESET button on the Arduino Nano module 6x pushbutton switches K1 ... K6 6x slide switches S1 ... S6 JP2: Connection of the switches with the inputs of the microcontroller
Buzzer
Piezo buzzer Buzzer1 with jumper on JP6
Indicator lights
11 x LED: Status indicator for the inputs/outputs LED L on the Arduino Nano module, connected to GPIO D13 JP6: Connection of LEDs LD10 ... LD20 with GPIOs D2 ... D12
Serial interfacesSPI & I²C
JP4: Selection of the signal at pin X of the SPI connector SV12 SV9 to SV12: SPI interface (3.3 V/5 V) or I²C interface
Switching output for external devices
SV1, SV7: Switching output (maximum +24 V/160 mA, externally supplied) SV2: 2x13 pins for connection of external modules
3x3 LED matrix(9 red LEDs)
SV3: Columns of the 3x3 LED matrix (outputs D6 ... D8) JP1: Connection of the rows with the GPIOs D3 ... D5
Software
Library MCCABLib
Control of hardware components (switches, buttons, LEDs, 3x3 LED matrix, buzzer) on the MCCAB Training Board
Operating Temperature
Up to +40 °C
Dimensions
100 x 100 x 20 mm
Specifications (Arduino Nano)
Microcontroller
ATmega328P
Architecture
AVR
Operating Voltage
5 V
Flash Memory
32 KB, of which 2 KB used by bootloader
SRAM
2 KB
Clock Speed
16 MHz
Analog IN Pins
8
EEPROM
1 KB
DC Current per I/O Pins
40 mA on one I/O pin, total maximum 200 mA on all pins together
Input Voltage
7-12 V
Digital I/O Pins
22 (6 of which are PWM)
PWM Output
6
Power Consumption
19 mA
Dimensions
18 x 45 mm
Weight
7 g
Included
1x Elektor Arduino Nano Training Board MCCAB
1x Arduino Nano
Elektor GREEN and GOLD members can download their digital edition here.
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Arduino Portenta Machine Control and Arduino Portenta H7A CAN-to-MQTT Gateway Demo Project
Unboxing the Elektor LCR Meter with David Cuartielles
MicroPython Enters the World of Arduino
Connected Projects, SimplifiedDive Into the Arduino Cloud
Introduction to TinyMLBig Is Not Always Better
Arduino K-Way
Writing Arduino Sketches Just Got Better
Get to Know Arduino
Getting Started with the Portenta X8Manage Software Securely with Containers
Build, Deploy, and Maintain Scalable, Secure ApplicationsWith Arduino Portenta X8 Featuring NXP’s i.MX 8M Mini Applications Processor and EdgeLock SE050 Secure Element
How I Automated My HomeArduino CEO Fabio Violante Shares Solutions
Altair 8800 SimulatorHardware Simulation of a Vintage Computer
MS-DOS on the Portenta H7Run Old-School Software on Contemporary Hardware
Grow It YourselfA Digitally Controlled, Single-Box Solution for Indoor Farming
Save the Planet With Home Automation?MQTT on the Arduino Nano RP2040 Connect
Go Professional with Arduino Pro
Smart Ovens Take a Leap Into the Future
Tagvance Builds Safer Construction Sites with Arduino
Santagostino Breathes Easywith Remote Monitoring that Leverages AI for Predictive Maintenance
Security Flies High with RIoT Secure’s MKR-Based Solution
Open-Source Brings a New Generation of Water Management to the World
SensoDetect Deforestation with Sound Analysis
The Mozzi Arduino Library for Sound SynthesisInsights from Tim Barrass
The New Portenta X8 (with Linux!) and Max Carrier Redefine What’s Possible
How Using Arduino Helps Students Build Future Skills
Must-Haves for Your Electronics Workspace
The Importance of Robotics in Education
Dependable IoT Based Upon LoRa
Unboxing the Portenta Machine Control
8-Bit Gaming with Arduboy
Reducing Water Usage at Horseback Riding TracksAn IoT to Constantly Monitor Soil Humidity and Temperature Levels
The Panettone ProjectA sourdough starter management and maintenance system
Supporting Arduino Resellers
Space Invaders with Arduino
Art with ArduinoInspiring Insights from Artists and Designers
Arduino Product Catalogue
The Future of Arduino
Make your project dreams come true: an odometer for the hamster wheel, a fully automatic control of your ant farm with web interface, or the Sandwich-O-Mat – a machine that toasts and grills sandwiches of your choice.
With the Arduino and the DIY or Maker movement, not only did entry into microcontroller programming become child's play, but a second development also took place: Resourceful developers brought small boards – so-called shields or modules – to the market, which greatly simplified the use of additional hardware. The small modules contain all the important electronic parts to be connected to the microcontroller with a few plug-in cables, eliminating the need for a fiddly and time-consuming assembly on the plug-in board. In addition, it is also possible to handle tiny components that do not have any connecting legs (so-called SMDs).
Projects Discussed
Arduino seeks connection
BMP and introduction to libraries, I²C
Learn I/O basics with the multi-purpose shield
I²C LCD adapter and DOT matrix displays
LCD keypad shield
Level converter
W5100: Internet connection
I/O expansion shield
Relays and solid-state relays
The multi-function shield: A universal control unit
Connecting an SD card reader via SPI
Keys and 7-segment displays
16-bit ADC
MCP4725 DAC
16-way PWM servo driver
MP3 player
GPS data logger using an SD card
Touch sensor
Joystick
SHT31: Temperature and humidity
VEML6070 UV-A sensor
VL53L0X time-of-flight
Ultrasonic distance meter
MAX7219-based LED DOT matrix display
DS3231 RTC
Port expander MCP23017
433 MHz radio
MPU-650 gyroscope
ADXL345 accelerometer
WS2812 RGB LEDs
Power supply
MQ-xx gas sensors
CO2 gas sensor
ACS712 current sensor
INA219 current sensor
L298 motor driver
MFRC522 RFID
28BYJ-48 stepper motor
TMC2209 silent step stick
X9C10x digital potentiometer
ST7735 in a color TFT display
e-Paper display
Bluetooth
Geiger counter
SIM800L GSM module
I²C multiplexer
Controller Area Network
Although the Arduino isn’t a novelty any longer, there are still many beginners who want to try programming and development with a microcontroller, and to them, it is all new. All beginnings can be difficult, though they should be light and enjoyable.
You do not need much or expensive equipment for the examples. The circuits are built on a small breadboard, and, if necessary, connected to an Arduino Uno, which you can program on a Windows PC. You will find clear examples of how to build all circuits, ensuring easy and error-free reproduction.
Projects Discussed
Current & Voltage – How it all began
Arduino Hardware
Arduino Programming
The Electrical Circuit
Measuring with the Multimeter
Circuit Diagrams and Breadboards
Creating Circuit Diagrams
Breadboard Views with Fritzing
Online Circuit Simulation
Indispensable: Resistors (Part 1)
Hands-on with Resistors (Part 2)
Variable Resistors
Diodes: One-way Street for Current
The Transistor Switch
Electromagnetism
Relays and Motors
op-amps: Operational Amplifiers
Capacitors
The NE555 Timer
PWM and Analogue Values with Arduino
7-Segment Temperature Display
Introduction to Soldering and LCDs
Pull Down Lever For Highest Score!
This Elektor Circuit Classic from 1984 shows a playful application of CMOS 400x series logic ICs in combination with LEDs, a highly popular combination at the time. The project imitates a spinning-digit type slot machine.
The Game
To play the game, first agree on the number of rounds. Player 1 actuates the switch lever as long as desired and releases it. The LEDs then show the score which is the sum of the 50-20-10-5 digits lit up. If the Play Again! LED lights, Player 1 has another, “free” round. If not, it’s Player 2’s turn. The players keep tab of their scores, and the highest score wins.
Features
LEDs Indicate Score
Multi-Player and Play Again!
Elektor Heritage Circuit Symbols
Tried & Tested by Elektor Labs
Educational & Geeky Project
Through-Hole Parts Only
Included
Printed Circuit Board
All Components
Wooden Stand
Bill of Materials
Resistors (5%, 250 mW)
R1,R2,R3,R4 = 100kΩ
R5,R6,R7,R8,R9,R10 = 1kΩ
Capacitors
C1 = 4.7nF, 10%, 50V, 5mm
C2 = 4.7μF, 10%, 63V, axial
C3,C4 = 100nF, 10 %, 50V, ceramic X7R, 5mm
Semiconductors
LED1-LED6 = red, 5mm (T1 3/4)
IC1 = 74HC4024
IC2 = 74HC132
Miscellaneous
S1 = switch, toggle, 21mm lever, SPDT, momentary
S2 = switch, tactile, 24V, 50mA, 6x6mm
S3 = switch, slide, SPDT
IC1,IC2 = IC socket, DIP14
BT1 = PCB-mount CR2032 battery retainer clip
Desktop Stand
PCB 230098-1
Not included: BT1 = CR2032 coin cell battery
The Elektor Milliohmmeter Adapter uses the precision of a multimeter to measure very low resistance values. It is an adapter that converts a resistance into a voltage that can be measured with a standard multimeter.
The Elektor Milliohmmeter Adapter can measure resistances below 1 mΩ using a 4-wire (Kelvin) method. It is useful for locating short circuits on printed circuit boards (PCB).
The adapter features three measurement ranges – 1 mΩ, 10 mΩ, and 100 mΩ – selectable via a slide switch. It also includes onboard calibration resistors. The Elektor Milliohmmeter Adapter is powered by three 1.5 V AA batteries (not included).
Specifications
Measurement ranges
1 mΩ, 10 mΩ, 100 mΩ, 0.1%
Power supply
3x 1.5 V AA batteries (not included)
Dimensions
103 x 66 x 18 mm (compatible with Hammond 1593N-type enclosure, not included)
Special feature
On-board calibration resistors
Downloads
Documentation
The Elektor ESP32 Energy Meter is a device designed for real-time energy monitoring and smart home integration. Powered by the ESP32-S3 microcontroller, it offers robust performance with modular and scalable features.
The device uses a 110/230 VAC to 12 VAC step-down transformer for voltage sampling, ensuring galvanic isolation and safety. Its compact PCB layout includes screw-type terminal blocks for secure connections, a Qwiic connector for additional sensors, and a programming header for direct ESP32-S3 configuration. The energy meter is compatible with single-phase and three-phase systems, making it adaptable for various applications.
The energy meter is simple to set up and integrates with Home Assistant, offering real-time monitoring, historical analytics, and automation capabilities. It provides accurate measurements of voltage, current, and power, making it a valuable tool for energy management in homes and businesses.
Features
Comprehensive Energy Monitoring: Get detailed insights into your energy usage for smarter management and cost savings.
Customizable Software: Tailor functionality to your needs by programming and integrating custom sensors.
Smart Home Ready: Compatible with ESPHome, Home Assistant, and MQTT for full Smart Home integration.
Safe & Flexible Design: Operates with a 110/230 VAC to 12 VAC step-down transformer and features a pre-assembled SMD board.
Quick Start: Includes one Current Transformer (CT) sensor and access to free setup resources.
Specifications
Microcontroller
ESP32-S3-WROOM-1-N8R2
Energy Metering IC
ATM90E32AS
Status Indicators
4x LEDs for power consumption indication2x Programmable LEDs for custom status notifications
User Input
2x Push buttons for user control
Display Output
I²C OLED display for real-time power consumption visualization
Input Voltage
12~16 VAC (via a step-down transformer 110/230 VAC to 12 VAC)
Clamp Current Sensor
YHDC SCT013-000 (100 A/50 mA) included
Smart Home Integration
ESPHome, Home Assistant, and MQTT for seamless connectivity
Connectivity
Header for programming, Qwiic for sensor expansion
Applications
Supports single-phase and three-phase energy monitoring systems
Dimensions
79.5 x 79.5 mm
Included
1x Partly assembled board (SMDs are pre-mounted)
2x Screw terminal block connectors (not mounted)
1x YHDC SCT013-000 current transformer
Required
Power transformer not included
Downloads
Datasheet (ESP32-S3-WROOM-1)
Datasheet (ATM90E32AS)
Datasheet (SCT013-000)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
From Prototype to Finished Product
What started as an innovative project to create a reliable and user-friendly energy meter using the ESP32-S3 microcontroller has evolved into a robust product. Initially developed as an open-source project, the ESP32 Energy Meter aimed to provide precise energy monitoring, smart home integration and more. Through meticulous hardware and firmware development, the energy meter now stands as a compact, versatile solution for energy management.
Vision and Mission Elektor believes that innovations in electronics will lead to a better world. Elektor is a multi-faceted platform in the applied electronics industry that unites hundreds of thousands engineers, programmers and developers in a worldwide community of knowledge and expertise. Since its founding in 1960, Elektor has been dedicated...
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