The Arduino Pro Portenta Cat. M1/NB IoT GNSS Shield allows you to enhance the connectivity features of your Portenta H7 applications. The shield leverages a Cinterion TX62 wireless module by Thales, designed for highly efficient, low-power IoT applications to deliver optimized bandwidth and performance.
The Portenta Cat. M1/NB IoT GNSS Shield combines with the strong edge computing power of the Portenta H7 to enable the development of asset tracking and remote monitoring applications in industrial settings, as well as in agriculture, public utilities and smart cities. The shield offers cellular connectivity to both Cat. M1 and NB-IoT networks with the option to use eSIM technology. Easily track your valuables – across the city or worldwide – with your choice of GPS, GLONASS, Galileo or BeiDou.
Features
Change connectivity capabilities without changing the board
Add NB-IoT, CAT. M1 and positioning to any Portenta product
Possibility to create a small multiprotocol router (WiFi - BT + NB-IoT/CAT. M1)
Greatly reduce communication bandwidth requirements in IoT applications
Low-power module
Compatible also with MKR boards
Remote Monitoring
Industrial and agricultural companies can leverage the Portenta Cat. M1/NB IoT GNSS Shield to remotely monitor gas detectors, optical sensors, machinery alarm systems, biological bug traps and more.
Technology providers providing smart city solutions can compound the power and reliability of the Portenta H7 with the Portenta Cat. M1/NB IoT GNSS Shield, to connect data and automate actions for a truly optimized use of resources and enhanced user experience.
Asset Monitoring
Add monitoring capabilities to any asset by combining the performance and edge computing features of the Portenta family boards. The Portenta Cat. M1/NB IoT GNSS Shield is ideal to monitor valuable goods and also for monitoring industrial machinery and equipment.
Specifications
Connectivity
Cinterion TX62 wireless module; NB-IoT - LTE CAT.M1; 3GPP Rel.14 Compliant Protocol LTE Cat. M1/NB1/NB2; UMTS BANDS: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 8 / 12(17) / 13 / 18 / 19 / 20 / 25 / 26 / 27 / 28 / 66 / 71 / 85; LTE Cat.M1 DL: max. 300 kbps, UL: max. 1.1 Mbps; LTE Cat.NB1 DL: max. 27 kbps, UL: max. 63 kbps; LTE Cat.NB2 DL: max. 124 kbps, UL: max. 158 kbps
Short messaging service (SMS)
Point-to-point mobile terminated (MT) and mobile originated (MO) Text Mode; Protocol Data Unit (PDU) Mode
Localization support
GNSS capability (GPS/BeiDou/Galileo/GLONASS)
Other
Embedded IPv4 and IPv6 TCP/IP stack access; Internet Services: TCP server/client, UDP client, DNS, Ping, HTTP client, FTP client, MQTT client Secure Connection with TLS/DTLS Secure boot
Dimensions
66 x 25.4 mm
Operating temperature
-40° C to +85° C (-104° F to 185°F)
Downloads
Datasheet
Schematics
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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
There are many so-called 'Arduino compatible' platforms on the market. The ESP8266 – in the form of the WeMos D1 Mini Pro – is one that really stands out. This device includes WiFi Internet access and the option of a flash file system using up to 16 MB of external flash memory. Furthermore, there are ample in/output pins (though only one analogue input), PWM, I²C, and one-wire. Needless to say, you are easily able to construct many small IoT devices!
This book contains the following builds:
A colourful smart home accessory
refrigerator controller
230 V power monitor
door lock monitor
and some further spin-off devices.
All builds are documented together with relevant background information for further study. For your convenience, there is a small PCB for most of the designs; you can also use a perf board. You don’t need to be an expert but the minimum recommended essentials include basic experience with a PC, software, and hardware, including the ability to surf the Internet and assemble PCBs.
And of course: A handle was kept on development costs. All custom software for the IoT devices and PCB layouts are available for free download from at Elektor.com.
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
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
Affordable solutions with the ESP8266 and 3D printing
If you are looking for a small yet powerful IoT device, you are likely to come across the ESP8266 and compatible products on the market today. One of these, the Wemos/Lolin D1 Mini Pro board strikes a remarkable balance between cost and performance. A small and very affordable prototype board, the D1 Mini Pro stands out with its WiFi functionality and a 16-Mbytes flash memory for easy creation of a flash file system. In addition, there are sufficient input and output pins (only one analog input though) to support PWM, I²C, and One-Wire systems to mention but a few. The book describes the operation, modding, construction, and programming of home appliances including a colorful smart home accessory, a refrigerator/greenhouse controller, an AC powerline monitor, a door lock monitor, and an IKEA Trådfri controller.
As a benefit, all firmware developed for these DIY, "IoT-ized" devices can be updated over-the-air (OTA).
For most of the designs in the book, a small printed circuit board (PCB) and an enclosure are presented so readers can have a finished and attractive-looking product. Readers having – or with access to! – a 3D printer can "print" the suggested enclosures at home or in a shop.
Some of the constructions benefit from a Raspberry Pi configured as a gateway or cms server. This is also described in detail with all the necessary configuring.
You don’t need to be an expert but the prerequisites to successful replication of the projects include basic skills with PC software including the ability to surf the Internet. In terms of hardware, you should be comfortable with soldering and generally assembling the PCBs presented in the book.
All custom software written for the IoT devices, the PCB layouts, and 3D print files described in the book are available for free downloading.
Using the RFID Starter Kit
An Arduino board has now become ‘the’ basic component in the maker community. No longer is an introduction to the world of microcontrollers the preserve of the expert. When it comes to expanding the capabilities of the basic Arduino board however, the developer is still largely on his own. If you really want to build some innovative projects it’s often necessary to get down to component level. This can present many beginners with major problems. That is exactly where this book begins.
This book explains how a wide variety of practical projects can be built using items supplied in a single kit together with the Arduino board. This kit, called the 'RFID Starter Kit for Arduino' (SKU 17240) is not just limited to RFID applications but contains more than 30 components, devices and modules covering all areas of modern electronics.
In addition to more simple components such as LEDs and resistors there are also complex and sophisticated modules that employ the latest technology such as:
A humidity sensor
A multicolor LED
A large LED matrix with 64 points of light
A 4-character 7-segment LED display
An infra red remote-controller unit
A complete LC-display module
A servo
A stepper motor and controller module
A complete RFID reader module and security tag
On top of that you will get to build precise digital thermometers, hygrometers, exposure meters and various alarm systems. There are also practical devices and applications such as a fully automatic rain sensor, a sound-controlled remote control system, a multifunctional weather station and so much more.
All of the projects described can be built using the components supplied in the Elektor kit.
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
The Arduino Micro contains everything needed to support the microcontroller; simply connect it to a computer with a micro USB cable to get started. It has a form factor that enables it to be easily placed on a breadboard.
The Micro board is similar to the Arduino Leonardo in that the ATmega32U4 has built-in USB communication, eliminating the need for a secondary processor. This allows the Micro to appear to a connected computer as a mouse and keyboard, in addition to a virtual (CDC) serial / COM port.
Specifications
Microcontroller
ATmega32U4
Operating Voltage
5 V
Input Voltage
7 V - 12 V
Analog Input Pins
12
PWM Pins
7
DC I/O Pin
20
DC Current per I/O Pin
20 mA
DC Current for 3.3 V Pin
50 mA
Flash Memory
32 KB of which 4 KB used by the bootloader
SRAM
2.5 KB
EEPROM
1 KB
Clock Speed
16 MHz
LED_Builtin
13
Length
45 mm
Width
18 mm
Weight
13 g
The Joy-Pi Advanced is a compact and powerful device that allows you to realize your projects quickly and easily. Whether you already have a lot of experience, or next to none, the Joy-Pi Advanced lets you unleash your creativity. Thanks to its compatibility with a wide range of platforms, including Raspberry Pi, Raspberry Pi Pico, Arduino Nano, BBC micro:bit, and NodeMCU ESP32, you can easily and quickly access your preferred platform.
In addition, the Joy-Pi Advanced features more than 30 stations, lessons, and modules, giving you an unlimited variety of ways to get your projects done. With the self-developed learning center, you can not only improve your skills but also create new projects. The learning center offers a wealth of information and tutorials that will guide you step by step through your projects.
Joy-Pi Advanced is characterized in particular by its intelligent switch units, which allow an extended use of the available pins. A total of three switch units are integrated, each equipped with 12 individual switches that provide precise control of the connected sensors and modules. This system solves the well-known problem of limited pin count that occurs with conventional microcontrollers. The switch units allow you to operate a large number of sensors and modules in parallel by switching them on and off individually. This simulates multiple pin assignment, allowing you to exploit the full power of your projects without compromising functionality.
By combining innovative adapter boards and the micro:bit slot, you can achieve seamless compatibility with a wide range of microcontrollers such as Raspberry Pi Pico, NodeMCU ESP32, micro:mit and Arduino Nano. The specially developed adapter boards are designed to perfectly match the respective microcontroller. By plugging the microcontroller onto the appropriate adapter board and then plugging it into the micro:bit slot, the Joy-Pi Advanced quickly and easily becomes compatible with the different microcontrollers. This allows seamless integration of your preferred platform and the ability to combine the strengths of the different microcontrollers in your projects. This way, you can fully focus on your creative projects without worrying about the compatibility of different microcontrollers. The Joy-Pi Advanced simplifies the development process and gives you the possibility to design your projects flexibly and individually.
Features
Highly integrated development platform & learning center
Fast, easy & wireless combination of various sensors & actuators
Installation option for Raspberry Pi 4
Compatible with various microcontrollers
Self-developed, didactic learning platform for Raspberry Pi & Windows
Specifications
Compatible to
Raspberry Pi 4, Arduino Nano, NodeMCU ESP32, BBC micro:bit, Raspberry Pi Pico
Installed sensors, actuators & components
39
Learning platform
Over 40 entries in the know-ledge database, 10 projects, 10 learning tasks, 14 visions
Displays
7-segment display, 16x2 display, 1.8“ TFT display, 0.96" OLED display, 8x8 RGB matrix
Sensors
DS18B20, shock sensor, hall sensor, barometer, sound sensor, gyroscope, PIR sensor, Light barrier, NTC, Light sensor, 6x touch sensor, color sensor, ultrasonic distance sensor, DHT11 temperature & humidity sensor
Control
Joystick, 5x switches, potentiometer, rotary encoder, 4x4 button matrix, relays, PWM fan
Motors
Servo interface, Stepper motor interface, Vibration motor
Measuring & conversion modules
Analog-Digital Converter, Level converter, voltmeter, Variable voltage supply
Other components
RTC real time clock, buzzer, EEPROM memory, infrared receiver, breadboard, RFID reader
Adapter boards
Adapter for NodeMCU ESP32, Arduino Nano & Raspberry Pi Pico, Board connectors for Raspberry Pi & External Boards
Electronic components
Infrared remote control, RFID chip, RFID card, 6x alligator clips, microSD card reader, servo motor, stepper motor, 32 GB microSD card
Components
40x resistors, 3x green LEDs, 3x yellow LEDs, 3x red LEDs, 1x transistor, 5x buttons, 1x potentiometer, 2x capacitors
Other accessories
Screw assortment, screwdriver, accessory storage bag, power supply & power cable, servo mount
Power supply
Built-in power supply: 36 W, 12 V, 3 A Case connector: Small device plug C8
Voltage outputs
12 V, 5 V, 3.3 V, Variable voltage output (2-11 V)
Data buses & signal outputs
I²C, SPI, Analog to digital converter
Battery (RTC)
CR2032
Dimensions
327 x 200 x 52 mm
Required
Raspberry Pi 4 with at least 2 GB RAM
Downloads
Joy-Pi website
Datasheet
Manual
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.
Designed with cutting-edge technology, this shield brings the power of Ultra High Frequency (UHF) RFID to your fingertips.
With the Ardi UHF Shield, you can effortlessly read up to an impressive 50 tags per second, allowing for fast and efficient data collection. The shield features an onboard UHF antenna, ensuring reliable and accurate tag detection even in challenging environments.
Equipped with a high-performance 0.91" OLED display, the Ardi UHF Shield provides clear and concise visual feedback, making it easy to monitor and interact with the RFID readings. Whether you're tracking inventory, managing access control, or implementing a smart attendance system, this shield has you covered.
With a remarkable 1-meter reading distance, the Ardi UHF Shield offers an extended range for capturing RFID data. Say goodbye to the limitations of proximity-based RFID systems and embrace the flexibility and convenience of a wider reading range.
The shield provides read-write capabilities, allowing you to not only retrieve information from RFID tags but also update or modify data as needed. This versatility opens up a world of possibilities for advanced applications and custom solutions.
Features
Onboard High-performance UHF RFID reader module
24 hours x 365 days’ work normally
0.91” OLED display for visual interaction with shield
Multi-tone Buzzer onboard for Audio alerts
Shield compatible with both 3.3 V and 5 V MCU
Mounts directly onto ArdiPi, Ardi32 or other Arduino compatible boards
Specifications
OLED resolution 128x32 pixels
I²C Interface for OLED
UHF Frequency Range (EU/UK): 865.1-867.9 MHz
UHF Module Type: Read/Write
Protocols Supported: EPCglobal UHF Class 1 Gen 2 / ISO 18000-6C
Reading Distance: 1 meters
Can identify over 50 tags simultaneously
Communication interface: TTL UART Interface for UHF
Communication baud rate: 115200 bps (default and recommend) – 38400 bps
Operation current: 180 mA @ 3.5 V (26 dBm Output, 25°C), 110 mA @ 3.5 V (18 dBm Output, 25°C)
Working humidity <95% (+25°C)
Heat-dissipating method Air cooling(no need out install cooling fin)
Tags storage capacity: 200 pcs tags @ 96 bit EPC
Output power: 18-26 dBm
Output power accuracy: +/-1 dB
Tags RSSI support