How to Use Arduino Due: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Arduino Due is a powerful microcontroller board based on the Atmel SAM3X8E ARM Cortex-M3 processor. It is designed for high-performance applications and rapid prototyping, offering advanced features compared to other Arduino boards. With 54 digital input/output pins, 12 analog inputs, and USB connectivity, the Arduino Due is ideal for projects requiring significant processing power, precision, and flexibility.

• Robotics and automation systems
• Data acquisition and processing
• High-speed communication interfaces
• Audio processing and synthesis
• Advanced IoT (Internet of Things) applications
• Complex sensor networks

Below are the key technical details of the Arduino Due:

The Arduino Due has a variety of pins for different functionalities. Below is a summary:

The Arduino Due is straightforward to use but requires attention to its 3.3V operating voltage, as applying 5V to its pins can damage the board.

1. Powering the Board:

   • Use the USB port for programming and powering the board during development.
   • For standalone applications, supply 7-12V to the VIN pin or the DC power jack.

2. Connecting Components:

   • Ensure all components connected to the I/O pins operate at 3.3V logic levels.
   • Use level shifters if interfacing with 5V devices.

3. Programming the Board:

   • Connect the board to your computer using the Programming USB port.
   • Select "Arduino Due (Programming Port)" in the Arduino IDE under Tools > Board.
   • Write and upload your code.

The following example demonstrates how to blink an LED connected to pin 13:

// Blink an LED connected to pin 13 on the Arduino Due
void setup() {
  pinMode(13, OUTPUT); // Set pin 13 as an output
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(13, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(13, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
}

• Voltage Levels: The Arduino Due operates at 3.3V. Avoid applying 5V to any pin.
• USB Ports: Use the Native USB port for USB host applications and the Programming USB port for uploading sketches.
• Current Limits: Do not exceed 130 mA per I/O pin to prevent damage.
• Analog Inputs: The analog inputs have a maximum input voltage of 3.3V. Use a voltage divider if necessary.

1. The board is not recognized by the computer:

   • Ensure the correct USB cable is used (some cables are power-only).
   • Check that the drivers for the Arduino Due are installed.
   • Try using a different USB port or computer.

2. Sketch upload fails:

   • Verify that the correct board and port are selected in the Arduino IDE.
   • Use the Programming USB port for uploading sketches.
   • Press the "Erase" button on the board, followed by the "Reset" button, and try uploading again.

3. Connected components are not working:

   • Confirm that all components are compatible with 3.3V logic levels.
   • Double-check wiring and connections.

4. The board overheats:

   • Ensure the input voltage does not exceed 12V.
   • Check for short circuits in the connected circuit.

Q: Can I use 5V sensors with the Arduino Due?
A: Yes, but you must use a level shifter to convert the 5V signals to 3.3V to avoid damaging the board.

Q: What is the difference between the Native USB and Programming USB ports?
A: The Native USB port supports USB host functionality and higher-speed communication, while the Programming USB port is used for uploading sketches and debugging.

Q: How do I reset the Arduino Due?
A: Press the "Reset" button on the board. For a full reset, press the "Erase" button followed by the "Reset" button.

By following this documentation, you can effectively utilize the Arduino Due for your high-performance projects and prototyping needs.