In the previous section (Introduction to Arduino) we learnt about Arduino. In this section we are going to download and install the Arduino IDE. We will then use the example code in the IDE to blink the Arduino Built-in LED. Consider following the below steps;
Download the Arduino IDE
Download the latest version of the Arduino IDE from the Arduino website. Once the download has finished, double click to install. The installation process is self-guiding. You only need to follow the steps.
Agree to the license terms by clicking the agree button.
The next window is about the optional features you would like to install along with the Arduino software. If you prefer the program to automatically create the desktop shortcut be sure to select the option. It is good to ensure that all the options are selected. Click next
The next window allows you to choose the installation directory. I recommend that you leave the default directory and just click install.
The installation process will start and it will take some minutes to finish.
Once the installation is complete you will be prompted to close the setup. Just click the close button.
Launch the Arduino IDE program from the desktop shortcut. The following window will appear. This is the Arduino IDE where you write your programs to feed into the Arduino. The IDE is very simple and easy to use.
Connect the Arduino
Firstly, get your Arduino board and lay it on the table. Take the USB cable and plug the B plug end into the USB jack on the Arduino. Next, connect the other end of the USB cable into the USB socket on your PC. You will see the power LED (usually green) on the board light up to show that you have powered the board.
You will now have to select the appropriate Arduino board from the Tools > Board > Arduino Uno. You will be provided by the list of the Arduino boards. Be sure to select the appropriate board. For my case I will select the Uno board because it’s the one I am using.
Select the communication port for your Arduino from the Tools > Port > COM21(Arduino Uno).
We are now going to blink the inbuilt LED on the Arduino board. This LED is connected to the digital 13 of the Arduino board. You can access the example code by going to File > Examples > Basics>Blink.
To upload the code you will click the upload button on the Arduino IDE. This upload button is represented by the right facing arrow below the menu bar. Clicking this button will upload the code into the Arduino board.
If there is no error in your coding and connection, you will see the done uploading message on the lower left corner of the Arduino IDE as shown below.
The on-board LED labelled L will blink in an interval of 1 seconds. Congratulation!!! You have just successfully uploaded your first Arduino program.