Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Arduino not only created the hardware—an embedded device that does not
have corresponding software and support programs might still be difi cult to
use—but also spent a lot of time developing its own language and Integrated
Development Environment (IDE). The end result is a nice IDE that can work on
Windows, MacOS, and Linux and converts the Arduino language (a high level
variant of C/C++) to AVR code. The Arduino development environment hides
away all the complications linked to embedded systems and mixing software—
such as setting up an environment, linkers, pesky command lines—and lets the
developer program using simple C language functions through the Arduino
Programming Language.
The ATmega Series
Atmel has placed its AVR design into different groups, depending on various
factors. There are numerous AVR microcontrollers, and knowing which one to
use is essential for projects. Some ATmega devices have more memory, or more
digital and analog inputs and outputs, or have a specii c package size.
The ATmega Series
The Atmel megaAVR is the muscle of the AVR series. They are designed for
applications requiring large amounts of code, with l ash memory ranging from
4 k all the way to 512 k, enough for the most demanding of programs. Atmel
megaAVR devices come in various sizes, ranging from 28 pins all the way to 100
pins. These devices have an impressive amount of embedded systems: analog
to digital converters, multiple serial modes, and watchdog timers, to name but
a few. They also have a large amount of digital input and output lines, making
them ideal for devices that communicate with numerous components.
There are close to 100 ATmega devices, ranging in l ash memory size and
package size, and some models have advanced features such as internal LCD
Controllers, CAN controllers, USB controllers, and Lightning controllers. ATmega
chips are found in almost every Arduino board produced.
You can i nd more information on the ATmega series on Atmel's website at:
The ATtiny Series
The Atmel tinyAVR series has small-package devices designed for applications
that require performance and power efi ciency. These devices live up to their
name “tiny”; the smallest tinyAVR is 1.5 mm by 1.4 mm. The word “tiny” is only
a reference to their size. Their power is comparable to the larger AVRs; they have
multiple I/O pins that can be easily coni gured and a Universal Serial Interface
that can be coni gured as SPI, UART, or TWI. They can also be powered with as
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