32 new Projects, Practical Examples and Exercises with the Elektor Arduino Nano MCCAB Training Board
Electronics and microcontroller technology offer the opportunity to be creative. This practical microcontroller course provides you with the chance to bring your own Arduino projects and experience such moments of success. Ideally, everything works as you imagined when you switch it on for the first time. In practice, however, things rarely work as expected. At that point, you need knowledge to efficiently search for and find the reason for the malfunction.
In this book for advanced users, we delve deep into the world of microcontrollers and the Arduino IDE to learn new procedures and details, enabling you to successfully tackle and solve even more challenging situations.
With this book, the author gives the reader the necessary tools to create projects independently and also to be able to find errors quickly. Instead of just offering ready-made solutions, he explains the background, the hardware used, and any tools required. He sets tasks in which the reader contributes their own creativity and writes the Arduino sketch themselves.
If you don’t have a good idea and get stuck, there is, of course, a suggested solution for every project and every task, along with the corresponding software, which is commented on and explained in detail in the book.
This practical course will teach you more about the inner workings of the Arduino Nano and its microcontroller. You will get to know hardware modules that you can use to realize new and interesting projects. You will familiarize yourself with software methods such as ‘state machines,’ which can often be used to solve problems more easily and clearly.
The numerous practical projects and exercise sketches are once again realized on the Arduino Nano MCCAB Training Board, which you may already be familiar with from the course book ‘Microcontrollers Hands-on Course for Arduino Starters’, and which contains all the hardware peripherals and operating elements we need for the input/output operations of our sketches.
Readers who do not yet own the Arduino Nano MCCAB Training Board can purchase the required hardware separately, or alternatively, build it on a breadboard.
Mastering the I²C Bus takes you on an exploratory journey of the I²C Bus and its applications. Besides the Bus protocol, plenty of attention is given to the practical applications and designing a stable system. The most common I²C compatible chip classes are covered in detail.
Two experimentation boards are available that allow for rapid prototype development. These boards are completed by a USB to I²C probe and a software framework to control I²C devices from your computer. All samples programs can be downloaded from the 'Attachments/Downloads' section on this page.
Projects built on Board 1:
USB to I²C Interface, PCA 9534 Protected Input, PCA 9534 Protected Output, PCA 9553 PWM LED Controller, 24xxx EEPROM Module, LM75 Temperature Sensor, PCA8563 Real-time Clock with Battery Backup, LCD and Keyboard Module, Bus Power Supply.
Projects built on Board 2:
Protected Input, Protected Output, LM75 Temperature Sensor, PCF8574 I/O Board, SAA1064 LED Display, PCA9544 Bus Expander, MCP40D17 Potentiometer, PCF8591 AD/DA, ADC121 A/D Converter, MCP4725 D/A Converter, 24xxx EEPROM Module.
The Raspberry Pi AI HAT+ is an expansion board designed for the Raspberry Pi 5, featuring an integrated Hailo AI accelerator. This add-on offers a cost-effective, efficient, and accessible approach to incorporating high-performance AI capabilities, with applications spanning process control, security, home automation, and robotics.
Available in models offering 13 or 26 tera-operations per second (TOPS), the AI HAT+ is based on the Hailo-8L and Hailo-8 neural network accelerators. The 13 TOPS model efficiently supports neural networks for tasks like object detection, semantic and instance segmentation, pose estimation, and more. This 26 TOPS variant accommodates larger networks, enables faster processing, and is optimized for running multiple networks simultaneously.
The AI HAT+ connects via the Raspberry Pi 5’s PCIe Gen3 interface. When the Raspberry Pi 5 is running a current version of the Raspberry Pi OS, it automatically detects the onboard Hailo accelerator, making the neural processing unit (NPU) available for AI tasks. Additionally, the rpicam-apps camera applications included in Raspberry Pi OS seamlessly support the AI module, automatically using the NPU for compatible post-processing functions.
Included
Raspberry Pi AI HAT+ (26 TOPS)
Mounting hardware kit (spacers, screws)
16 mm GPIO stacking header
Downloads
Datasheet
The Raspberry Pi Bumper is a snap-on silicone cover that protects the bottom and edges of the Raspberry Pi 5.
Features
One-piece flexible silicone rubber bumper
Enables easy access to the power button
Mounting holes remain accessible underneath the bumper
Downloads
Datasheet
Mastering the Language and the Development PlatformMany people would like to learn Java but getting started is not easy since programming with Java requires at least two things: mastering the programming language and the development environment. With the help of many examples, this book shows how the language is structured. In addition, it employs the Eclipse development environment as an example of a powerful tool to teach developing Java programs.In Basics, the first part of the book, you acquire your Java and Eclipse basic knowledge. This part lays the programming foundations, gives you an overview of Java technology, and shows you what is special about object-oriented programming.In the second part called Java Language, everything revolves around the subtleties of the Java language and this is where the first small Java applications are created, aided by a fine blend of the knowledge part and practical exercises.Java Technology is both the name and the focus of the third part which also introduces you to the rules to observe when programming, what class libraries are and what advantages they have. In addition, you will learn how to test programs, what algorithms are, and how to program them.The fourth part, Java Projects, enables you to apply all the previous elements in an application with a graphical user interface. The project shows how to develop a larger application piece by piece with the Eclipse development environment. The Appendix concludes with a section on frequent errors that can occur when working with Eclipse, and a Glossary.
Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 is a compact camera from Raspberry Pi. It offers an IMX708 12-megapixel sensor with HDR, and features phase detection autofocus. Camera Module 3 is available in standard and wide-angle variants, both of which are available with or without an infrared cut filter. Camera Module 3 can be used to take full HD video as well as stills photographs, and features an HDR mode up to 3 megapixels. Its operation is fully supported by the libcamera library, including Camera Module 3’s rapid autofocus feature: this makes it easy for beginners to use, while offering plenty for advanced users. Camera Module 3 is compatible with all Raspberry Pi computers. All variants of Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 feature: Back-illuminated and stacked CMOS 12-megapixel image sensor (Sony IMX708) High signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) Built-in 2D Dynamic Defect Pixel Correction (DPC) Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF) for rapid autofocus QBC Re-mosaic function HDR mode (up to 3 megapixel output) CSI-2 serial data output 2-wire serial communication (supports I²C fast mode and fast-mode plus) 2-wire serial control of focus mechanism Specifications Sensor Sony IMX708 Resolution 11.9 MP Sensor size 7.4 mm sensor diagonal Pixel size 1.4 x 1.4 µm Horizontal/vertical 4608 x 2592 pixels Common video modes 1080p50, 720p100, 480p120 Output RAW10 IR cut filter Integrated in standard variants; not present in NoIR variants Autofocus system Phase Detection Autofocus Ribbon cable length 200 mm Cable connector 15 x 1 mm FPC Dimensions 25 x 24 x 11.5 mm (12.4 mm height for Wide variants) Variants of Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 Camera Module 3 Camera Module 3 NoIR Camera Module 3 Wide Camera Module 3 Wide NoIR Focus range 10 cm - ∞ 10 cm - ∞ 5 cm - ∞ 5 cm - ∞ Focal length 4.74 mm 4.74 mm 2.75 mm 2.75 mm Diagonal field of view 75 degrees 75 degrees 120 degrees 120 degrees Horizontal field of view 66 degrees 66 degrees 102 degrees 102 degrees Vertical field of view 41 degrees 41 degrees 67 degrees 67 degrees Focal ratio (F-stop) F1.8 F1.8 F2.2 F2.2 Infrared-sensitive No Yes No Yes Downloads GitHub Documentation
A Reference and User Guide for the Arduino Mega 2560 Hardware and Firmware
A manual providing up-to-date hardware information for the Arduino Mega 2560.
The Arduino Mega 2560 is an upgrade to the popular Arduino Uno board, providing more pins, serial ports and memory. Arduino is the easy to use open-source electronics platform used by hobbyists, makers, hackers, experimenters, educators and professionals.
Get all the information that you need on the hardware and firmware found on Arduino Mega 2560 boards in this handy reference and user guide. Ideal for the workbench or desktop. This manual covers the Arduino Mega 2560 hardware and firmware, and is a companion volume to the Ultimate Arduino Uno Hardware Manual, which covers the Arduino Uno hardware and firmware.
Contains all of the Arduino Mega 2560 hardware information in one place
Covers Arduino / Genuino Mega 2560 revision 3 and earlier boards
Easily find hardware technical specifications with explanations
Pin reference chapter with interfacing examples
Diagrams and illustrations for easy reference to pin functions and hardware connections
Learn to back up and restore firmware on the board, or load new firmware
Basic fault finding and repair procedures for Arduino Mega 2560 boards
Power supply circuits simplified and explained
Mechanical dimensions split into five easy to reference diagrams
Contains circuit diagrams, parts list and board layout to easily locate components
A chapter on shield compatibility explains how shields work across different Arduino boards
Looking for a fun DIY Christmas project? Assemble and program this extra-large Poly Reindeer figurine and make its LEDs shine all the colors of the rainbow! Ideal for both beginners and advanced makers! This educational and fun kit combines soldering and programming skills in one XL-sized project. First, you will need to solder some simple components onto the copper plated circuit board. The components include fancy RGB LEDs that have a special diffused effect. Once the soldering work is finished, you will be able to program the colors and light effects of the different LEDs thanks to the onboard Arduino Nano Every. The Arduino will be pre-programmed with some basic LED effects, so your kit will work once you power it with the included adaptor. Or you can choose to write your own code based on the available example code. Programmable add-ons The printed circuit board of this project is designed especially so you can add different add-ons. For example, add an OLED screen to display messages or program it to countdown the days until Christmas! Or add an IoT Tuya chip so your project can communicate with your smartphone. You can even add a sound microphone, motion sensor or light sensor. Features XL-sized & copper plated circuit board (PCB) in the shape of a polymetric reindeer 22 addressable (programmable) RGB LEDs 14 x 5 mm RGB LEDs 10 x 8 mm RGB LEDs Arduino Nano Every Onboard push button USB A to USB micro cable for programming USB A to USB B cable for power supply Wooden holder Complete manual and video available in 5 languages Example code for Arduino available Educational & fun for all ages and skill levels Expandable with lots of add-ons: an OLED screen a smart IoT sensor to connect with your smartphone a microphone sensor and more! Not included: soldering iron, soldering tin, pliers and an soldering mat Specifications Dimensions: 168 x 270 mm Power supply: 5 V/2.1 A max. (cable included)
From Rubbing Amber to Swiping Glass
"The story of electricity, told one connection at a time."Why does rubbing amber attract dust? How did we go from that curious effect to a world where screens respond to a single touch? And how did we get from mysterious sparks to tiny chips packed with billions of transistors?
For centuries, electricity puzzled and fascinated those who encountered its curious effects—long before it even had a name. From the earliest observations of static charge to the complex electronics that shape our lives today, this book traces the gradual, and often surprising, story of how humanity came to understand and harness this powerful force.
This book offers an engaging and accessible account of the people, ideas, and inventions that transformed electricity from a scientific curiosity into the foundation of our digital age. Along the way, you’ll meet a host of inquisitive minds—some famous, others less so—whose persistence and creativity helped unravel the mysteries of the natural world and gave rise to the technologies we now take for granted.
Covering everything from Leyden jars and batteries to transistors, microcontrollers and the internet, this book presents a clear and enjoyable overview of electronics and its relatively short, yet rich, history.
Whether you have a technical background or simply a curiosity about how things work, From Rubbing Amber to Swiping Glass offers a thoughtful look at how far we’ve come—and a gentle nudge to wonder what might come next.
This versatile plotter robot arm DIY kit for Arduino is equipped with MG90S metal gear servo motors to ensure precise and stable drawing movements.
Features
Fully compatible with Arduino IDE, includes complete source code for easy development and customization.
Equipped with robust MG90S metal gear servo motors for accuracy and durability.
Includes a Bluetooth module enabling wireless operation via a dedicated app.
Specially designed robotic arm tip securely holds pens or markers with a diameter of 8-10 mm, ideal for sketches and detailed drawings.
Included
Arduino-compatible Nano motherboard
Nano expansion board
Bluetooth module
MG90S all-metal gear servo motors
Aluminum structural frame
Thickened stable base plate
Screw and fastening accessories
Connecting wires
USB data cable
This book contains more than 400 simple electronic circuits which are developed and tested in practice by the authors. The technical solutions presented in the book are intended to stimulate the creative imagination of readers and broaden their area of thought. This should allow readers to look beyond the horizons of possibilities and use ordinary electronic items in a new way. This book includes new and original radio electronic multipurpose circuits. The chapters of the book are devoted to power electronics and measuring equipment and contain numerous original circuits of generators, amplifiers, filters, electronic switches based on thyristors and CMOS switch elements. Wired and wireless systems as well as security and safety systems are presented. Due to the high relevance and increased interest of readers in little-known or not readily available information, the different chapters of this book describe the use of electronic devices in industrial electronics and for research, as well as new instruments and equipment for medical use, gas-discharge and Kirlian photography. A number of technical devices presented in this book are related to research of the mysteries of the earth, nature and human beings by using radio electronic devices. This book will be useful for both radio amateurs and professionals.
It is possible to control Cytron 25Amp 7-58 V High Voltage DC Motor Driver with PWM and DIR inputs. The input logic voltage ranges from 1.8 V to 30 V and the board is compatible with variety of host controllers (such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, PLC).
If you don't want to deal with programming to control the motor, there is an option to control the motor driver from a potentiometer (speed) and a switch (direction).
You can also test the motor quickly and conveniently using the onboard test buttons and motor output LEDs without the need to hook up the host controller. It is possible to power the host controller with the buck regulator which produces 5 V output. This is especially useful for high voltage applications where no additional power source nor high voltage buck regulator is needed.
This motor driver also incorporates various protection features. If the motor stalls or you've hooked up an oversized motor, the overcurrent protection will take care of the board and protect it from damage. If the motor is trying to draw current more than what the motor driver can support, the motor current will be limited at the maximum threshold. Assisted by temperature protection, the maximum current limiting threshold depends on the board temperature. The higher the board temperature, the lower the current limiting threshold.
Note: Power input does not have reverse-voltage protection. Connecting the battery in reverse polarity will damage the motor driver instantaneously.
Features
Bidirectional control for one brushed DC motor
Operating Voltage: DC 7 V to 58 V
Maximum Motor Current: 25 A continuous, 60 A peak
5 V output for the host controller (250 mA max)
Buttons for quick testing
LEDs for motor output state
Dual Input Mode: PWM/DIR or Potentiometer/Switch Input
PWM/DIR Inputs compatible with 1.8 V, 3.3 V, 5 V, 12 V and 24 V logic (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, PLC, etc)
PWM frequency up to 40 kHz (Output frequency is fixed at 16 kHz)
Overcurrent protection with active current limiting
Temperature protection
Undervoltage shutdown
Included
1 × MD25HV (motor driver board)
1 × Potentiometer with connector
1 × Rocker switch with connector
4 × Nylon PCB Standoffs/Spacers
Downloads
Datasheet
Sample Code
This LR1302 module is a new generation LoRaWAN gateway module. It adopts a mini-PCIe form factor design and features low power consumption and high performance. Based on Semtech Network's SX1302 LoRaWA baseband chip, the LR1302 gateway module provides gateway products with potential capacity for long-distance wireless transmission. Compared to the previous SX1301 and SX1308 LoRa chips, the SX1302 chip has higher sensitivity, lower power consumption and lower operating temperature. It supports 8-channel data transmission, improves communication efficiency and capacity, and supports the connection and data transmission of more devices. It reserves two antenna interfaces, one for transmitting and receiving LoRa signals and one U.FL (IPEX) interface for independent transmission. It also has a metal shield to protect against external interference and provide a reliable communications environment. Designed specifically for the IoT space, the LR1302 is suitable for a variety of IoT applications. Whether used in smart cities, agriculture, industrial automation or other fields, the LR1302 module can provide reliable connections and efficient data transmission. Features Uses Semtech SX1302 baseband LoRa chip with extremely low power consumptionand excellent performance Mini-PCIe form factor and compact design make it easier to integrate into various gateway devices, suitable for space-constrained application scenarios, and provide flexible deployment options Support 8-channeldata transmission, provide more efficient communication efficiency and capacity Ultra-low operating temperatureeliminates the need for additional cooling and reduces the size of the LoRaWAN gateway Uses SX1250 TX/RX front end with sensitivity down to -139 dBm@SF12; TX power up to 26 dBm @3.3 V Specifications Frequency 863-870 MHz (EU868) Chipset Semtech SX1302 Chip Sensitivity -125 dBm @125K/SF7-139 dBm @125K/SF12 TX Power 26 dBm (with 3.3 V power supply) Bandwidth 125/250/500 kHz Channel 8 channel LEDs Power: GreenConfig: RedTX: GreenRX: Blue Form Factor Mini PCIe, 52-pin Golden Finger Power Consumption (SPI version) Standby: 7.5 mATX maximum power: 415 mARX: 40 mA Power Consumption (USB version) Standby: 20 mATX maximum power: 425 mARX: 53 mA LBT(Listen Before Talk) Support Antenna Connector U.FL Operating Temperature -40 to 85°C Dimensions (W x L) 30 x 50.95 mm Note LR1302 LoRaWAN Gateway Module is not included. Downloads Wiki SX1302 Datasheet Schematic Diagram
Cool Projects for Test, Measurement, and Control
The Raspberry Pi has dominated the maker scene for many years. Freely accessible I/O pins have made it one of the most popular processor boards of all time. However, the classic Raspberry Pi has no analog inputs. Direct measurement of analog values is therefore not possible. Consequently, photodiodes, NTCs, Hall sensors, etc. cannot be read directly. In addition, the pins are connected directly to the exposed contacts, i.e. without a driver or protection circuit. This can quickly destroy the central controller and thus the entire Raspberry Pi.
These problems can be elegantly solved with the Pico. As a front-end, it can easily handle a wide range of measurement tasks. In addition, the Pico is much cheaper than a classic Raspberry Pi 4 or 5. If a faulty circuit leads to the destruction of the Pico, this is relatively easy to handle. This makes the combination of a classic Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 and the Pico an ideal pair.
The book introduces the broad and highly topical field of modern controller technology using the combined force of a Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 and a Raspberry Pi Pico. In addition to a detailed introduction to the operation and functionality of the controller boards themselves, the book also focuses on data acquisition and processing with digital processors. Especially the combination of both systems offers a wide range of interesting possibilities.
Some practical projects from the contents:
USB between Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 and Pico
I²C Communication and Pico as an I²C device
Voltmeter and Computer Thermometer
Pico W as a Web Server and WLAN Scanner
Frequency Meters and Generators
OLED Displays on Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 and Pico
Energy Saving Monitor
Which Astronauts are in Orbit?
Mini Monitor for Current Bitcoin Exchange Rate
The Arduino Nano is a small, complete, and breadboard-friendly board based on the ATmega328 (Arduino Nano 3.x). It has more or less the same functionality of the Arduino Duemilanove but in a different package. It lacks only a DC power jack and works with a Mini-B USB cable instead of a standard one.
Specifications
Microcontroller
ATmega328
Operating Voltage (logic level)
5 V
Input Voltage (recommended)
7-12 V
Input Voltage (limits)
6-20 V
Digital I/O Pins
14 (of which 6 provide PWM output)
Analog Input Pins
8
DC Current per I/O Pin
40 mA
Flash Memory
16 KB (ATmega168) or 32 KB (ATmega328) of which 2 KB used by bootloader
SRAM
1 KB (ATmega168) or 2 KB (ATmega328)
EEPROM
512 bytes (ATmega168) or 1 KB (ATmega328)
Clock Speed
16 MHz
Dimensions
0.73 x 1.70' (18 x 45 mm)
Power
The Arduino Nano can be powered via the Mini-B USB connection, 6-20 V unregulated external power supply (pin 30), or 5 V regulated external power supply (pin 27). The power source is automatically selected to the highest voltage source.
Memory
The ATmega168 has 16 KB of flash memory for storing code (of which 2 KB is used for the bootloader), 1 KB of SRAM and 512 bytes of EEPROM
The ATmega328 has 32 KB of flash memory for storing code, (also with 2 KB used for the bootloader), 2 KB of SRAM and 1 KB of EEPROM.
Input and Output
Each of the 14 digital pins on the Nano can be used as an input or output, using pinMode(), digitalWrite(), and digitalRead() functions. They operate at 5 V.
Each pin can provide or receive a maximum of 40 mA and has an internal pull-up resistor (disconnected by default) of 20-50 kOhms.
Communication
The Arduino Nano has a number of facilities for communicating with a computer, another Arduino, or other microcontrollers.
The ATmega168 and ATmega328 provide UART TTL (5V) serial communication, which is available on digital pins 0 (RX) and 1 (TX). An FTDI FT232RL on the board channels this serial communication over USB and the FTDI drivers (included with the Arduino software) provide a virtual com port to software on the computer.
The Arduino software includes a serial monitor which allows simple textual data to be sent to and from the Arduino board. The RX and TX LEDs on the board will flash when data is being transmitted via the FTDI chip and USB connection to the computer (but not for serial communication on pins 0 and 1).
A SoftwareSerial library allows for serial communication on any of the Nano's digital pins.
Programming
The Arduino Nano can be programmed with the Arduino software (download).
The ATmega168 or ATmega328 on the Arduino Nano comes with a bootloader that allows you to upload new code to it without the use of an external hardware programmer. It communicates using the original STK500 protocol (reference, C header files).
You can also bypass the bootloader and program the microcontroller through the ICSP (In-Circuit Serial Programming) header using Arduino ISP or similar; see these instructions for details.
Automatic (Software) Reset
Rather than requiring a physical press of the reset button before an upload, the Arduino Nano is designed in a way that allows it to be reset by software running on a connected computer.
One of the hardware flow control lines (DTR) of theFT232RL is connected to the reset line of the ATmega168 or ATmega328 via a 100 nF capacitor. When this line is asserted (taken low), the reset line drops long enough to reset the chip.
The Arduino software uses this capability to allow you to upload code by simply pressing the upload button in the Arduino environment. This means that the bootloader can have a shorter timeout, as the lowering of DTR can be well-coordinated with the start of the upload.
Pixy2 can be taught to detect objects by the press of a button. It is equipped with a new line detection algorithm to use on line-following robots. It can learn to recognize intersection and follow road signs.
Pixy2 comes with various cables so that you can connect it with an Arduino or a Raspberry Pi out of the box. Furthermore, the I/O port offers several interfaces (SOI, I²C, UART, USB) to plug your Pixy2 in most boards.
Downloads
Documentation
Projects
Software
The ESP8266 from Espressif is a Wi-Fi microchip with full TCP/IP stack and microcontroller capability. It has made waves in the maker community with its low price.
But many developers were unhappy with ESP8266's high power consumption. The ESP32, equipped with a ULP (Ultra Low Power) coprocessor, offers a remedy for this.
This e-book features a number of projects featuring ESP32 & ESP8266 as well as an interview with the CEO of Espressif Teo Swee Ann.
Articles
ESP32 for Use in Industry 4.0 Equipment
Scrolling Message Display, 512 LEDs controlled over Wi-Fi via an ESP-12F
The Connected Greenhouse IoT demonstration project using MQTT and Node-RED
VFD-tube Clock with ESP32 with an accurate Internet-derived time
ESP32 Low Power
DCF77 Emulator with ESP8266
ESP8266 on the Elektor Android I/O Board
The Reason Behind the Hugely Popular ESP8266?
Wi-Fi Desktop Thermostat
Timers for the Wi-Fi Desktop Thermostat
PlatformIO, the Universal Programming Tool
Weather Display, Visualize current weather data on an LC display
GoNotify, a Flexible IoT Sensor Interface
ESP32 for Power Users
USB Programming Adaptor for ESP8266
Getting started with ESP32 and the Arduino IDE
MicroPython, Python for small systems
RGBDigit Clock
WLAN for Microcontrollers
Return of the Wi-Fi Controller Board
Compact and Self-contained WLAN
EAGLE – the “Easily Applicable Graphical Layout Editor“ is a professional-grade CAD (computer aided design) software package for the design and drafting of electronic schematics as well as the design and fabrication of printed circuit boards (PCBs).
This publication, the ‘EAGLE Advanced User Guide’ provides the experienced EAGLE user with insight into using some of the more advanced features of EAGLE software. It is not a guide to teach the reader the basic concepts of EAGLE, nor does it discuss the ‘how to’ of the EAGLE interface and the simpler operations and commands of the software. That is the purpose of the author’s previous title EAGLE V6 Getting Started Guide also published by Elektor.
This book is intended as an enduring document covering the more advanced modules, commands, and functions which make up EAGLE. It is hoped that this book will sit on the desk or the bookshelf of the EAGLE user, and provide a quick, succinct reference to assist with more complex applications and uses of EAGLE – an ‘EAGLE User’s Companion’, if you like.
Complementing the EAGLE Advanced User Guide, the EAGLE User Language manual is included in this book in unabridged form, reproduced with permission of CadSoft GmbH.
At the time of writing, the material in this book covers version 7 of the EAGLE software suite.
Your gateway to IoT and microcontroller programming
With 450+ components and 117 online projects, this comprehensive kit ignites your creativity. The tutorials by Paul McWhorter make learning enjoyable for beginners and advanced users. This kit supports MicroPython, C/C++, and Piper Make, offering diverse programming options.
Explore sensors, actuators, LEDs, and LCDs for endless project possibilities. From home automation to robotics, this kit empowers your tech journey.
Features
IoT Starter Kit for Beginners: This kit offers a rich IoT learning experience for beginners. With 450+ components, 117 projects, and expert-led video lessons, this kit makes learning microcontroller programming and IoT engaging and accessible.
Expert-Guided Video Lessons: The kit includes 27 video tutorials by the renowned educator, Paul McWhorter. His engaging style simplifies complex concepts, ensuring an effective learning experience in microcontroller programming.
Wide Range of Hardware: The kit includes a diverse array of components like sensors, actuators, LEDs, LCDs, and more, enabling you to experiment and create a variety of projects with the Raspberry Pi Pico W.
Supports Multiple Languages: The kit offers versatility with support for three programming languages - MicroPython, C/C++, and Piper Make, providing a diverse programming learning experience.
Dedicated Support: Benefit from our ongoing assistance, including a community forum and timely technical help for a seamless learning experience.
Included
Raspberry Pi Pico W
Breadboard
Jumper Wires
Resistor
Transistor
Capacitor
Diode
Li-po Charger Module
74HC595
TA6586 – Motor Driver Chip
LED
RGB LED
LED Bar Graph
7-segment Display
4-Digit 7-Segment Display
LED Dot Matrix
I²C LCD1602
WS2812 RGB 8 LEDs Strip
Buzzer
DC Motor
Servo
DC Water Pump
Relay
Button
Micro Switch
Slide Switch
Potentiometer
Infrared Receiver
Joystick Module
4x4 Keypad
MPR121 Module
MFRC522 Module
Photoresistor
Thermistor
Tilt Switch
Reed Switch
PIR Motion Sensor Module
Water Level Sensor Module
Ultrasonic Module
DHT11 Humiture Sensor
MPU6050 Module
Documentation
Online Tutorials in 3 languages (EN, DE and JP)
HyperPixel 4.0 Square has all the great features of our standard HyperPixel 4.0 – a crisp, brilliant IPS display with touchscreen, and high-speed DPI interface – it's just more square!
This square version of HyperPixel 4.0 is great for custom interfaces and control panels, and works really well for Pico-8 games. Everything is pre-soldered and ready to go, just pop it onto your RPi, run our installer, and away you go!
Features
High-speed DPI interface
4.0" IPS (wide viewing angle, 160°) display (72x72 mm)
720x720 pixels (~254 PPI)
18-bit colour (262,144 colors)
60 FPS frame rate
Optional capacitive touchscreen
40-pin female header included to boost height for Raspberry Pi B+, 2, 3, 3B+ and 4
Standoffs included to securely attach to your RPi
Compatible with all 40-pin header Raspberry Pi models
One-line installer
HyperPixel 4.0 Square uses a high-speed DPI interface, allowing it to shift 5x more pixel data than the usual SPI interface that these small RPi displays normally use. It has a 60 FPS frame rate and a resolution of approximately 254 pixels per inch (720x720px) on its 4.0' display. The display can show 18-bits of colour (262,144 colors).
This Touch version has a capacitive touch display that's more sensitive and responsive to touch than a resistive touch display, and it's capable of multi-touch!
Please note: when installing HyperPixel 4.0 Square onto your RPi make sure not to press down on the screen surface! Hold the board by its edges and wiggle it to mate with the extended header (or GPIO header). Also take care not to pull on the edges of the glass display when removing your HyperPixel.
It'll work with any 40-pin version of the RPi, including RPi Zero and RPi Zero W. If you're using it with a larger RPi then use the extra 40-pin header that's included to boost it up to the required height. If you're using a Zero or Zero W then just pop it straight onto the GPIO.
The included standoff kit allows you to mount your HyperPixel 4.0 Square safely and securely to your RPi. Just screw them into the posts on the underside of the HyperPixel 4.0 Square PCB and then secure with screws through the mounting holes on your RPi.
Downloads
GitHub
Understanding and Using Them Effectively
What happens in electronics is invisible to the naked eye. The instrument that allows to accurately visualize electrical signals, the one through which the effects of electronics become apparent to us, is the oscilloscope.
Alas, when one first ventures into electronics, it is often without an oscilloscope. And one is left fumbling, both physically and mentally. Observing an electrical signal on a screen for the first time is a revelation. Nobody wishes to forgo that marvel again. There is no turning back.
In electronics, if one wishes to progress with both enjoyment and understanding, an oscilloscope is essential. This marks the beginning of a period of questioning: how to choose one? And no sooner is that question answered than a whole string of others arises, which can be summed up in just one: how does one use the oscilloscope in such a way that what it displays truly reflects the reality of the signals?
Rémy Mallard is a passionate communicator with a gift for making complex technical subjects understandable and engaging. In this book, he provides clear answers to essential questions about using an oscilloscope and offers a wealth of guidance to help readers explore and understand the electrical signals behind electronic systems. With his accessible style and practical insights, this book is a valuable tool for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of electronics.
A Hands-on Guide to Crafting Your Own Power Plant
The book you are about to read provides a step-by-step guide for building a renewable energy power plant at home. Our goal was to make the book as practical as possible. The material is intended for immediate application with a small amount of theory. Yet, the theory is important as a foundation that saves time and effort by disabusing the readers of potential misconceptions. Specifically, upon having a firm understanding of photovoltaic physics, you will not be inclined to fruitlessly search for 90% efficient solar panels!
We want our readers to be the “doers”. If the book gets covered in grime and some pages become torn while you are building your power plant – this is the best compliment to us. The book covers solar and wind energy. Also, a curious power source based on manure is discussed as well, giving the doers an opportunity to further develop the manure fuel cell.
It is important to note that there are many companies offering installation of complete solar solutions. Upon installing the panels, the system is not owned by the customer. Therefore, there is no freedom for experimentation and optimization. Also, none can beat the cost of a DIY solution as well as the ultimate satisfaction.
All that is written here is a result of us building a renewable energy solution in Southern California. As the book was completed, the energy began flowing!
A Beginner's Guide to AI and Edge Computing
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now part of our daily lives. With companies developing low-cost AI-powered hardware into their products, it is now becoming a reality to purchase AI accelerator hardware at comparatively very low costs. One such hardware accelerator is the Hailo module which is fully compatible with the Raspberry Pi 5. The Raspberry Pi AI Kit is a cleverly designed hardware as it bundles an M.2-based Hailo-8L accelerator with the Raspberry Pi M.2 HAT+ to offer high speed inferencing on the Raspberry Pi 5. Using the Raspberry Pi AI Kit, you can build complex AI-based vision applications, running in real-time, such as object detection, pose estimation, instance segmentation, home automation, security, robotics, and many more neural network-based applications.
This book is an introduction to the Raspberry Pi AI Kit, and it is aimed to provide some help to readers who are new to the kit and wanting to run some simple AI-based visual models on their Raspberry Pi 5 computers. The book is not meant to cover the detailed process of model creation and compilation, which is done on an Ubuntu computer with massive disk space and 32 GB memory. Examples of pre-trained and custom object detection are given in the book.
Two fully tested and working projects are given in the book. The first project explains how a person can be detected and how an LED can be activated after the detection, and how the detection can be acknowledged by pressing an external button. The second project illustrates how a person can be detected, and how this information can be passed to a smart phone over a Wi-Fi link, as well as how the detection can be acknowledged by sending a message from the smartphone to your Raspberry Pi 5.
Clever Tricks with ATmega328 Pro Mini Boards
With a simple Pro Mini board and a few other components, projects that 20 or 30 years ago were unthinkable (or would have cost a small fortune) are realized easily and affordably in this book: From simple LED effects to a full battery charging and testing station that will put a rechargeable through its paces, there’s something for everyone.
All the projects are based on the ATmega328 microcontroller, which offers endless measuring, switching, and control options with its 20 input and output lines. For example, with a 7-segment display and a few resistors, you can build a voltmeter or an NTC-based thermometer. The Arduino platform offers the perfect development environment for programming this range of boards.
Besides these very practical projects, the book also provides the necessary knowledge for you to create projects based on your own ideas. How to measure, and what? Which transistor is suitable for switching a certain load? When is it better to use an IC? How do you switch mains voltage? Even LilyPad-based battery-operated projects are discussed in detail, as well as many different motors, from simple DC motors to stepper motors.
Sensors are another exciting topic: For example, a simple infrared receiver that can give disused remote controls a new lease on life controlling your home, and a tiny component that can actually measure the difference in air pressure between floor and table height!