How to Use SparkFun Photon RedBoard: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SparkFun Photon RedBoard is an innovative development board that integrates the Particle Photon Wi-Fi module, offering a seamless experience for prototyping Wi-Fi enabled projects. This board is designed to be compatible with the Arduino form factor, allowing for a wide range of applications ranging from Internet of Things (IoT) devices to smart home automation and wireless sensor networks.

• IoT devices
• Remote monitoring systems
• Home automation
• Wireless sensor networks
• Prototyping Wi-Fi enabled projects

• Wi-Fi Module: Particle Photon
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• Input Voltage (recommended): 7-15V
• Input Voltage (limits): 4.5-20V
• Digital I/O Pins: 18
• PWM Channels: 9
• Analog Input Channels: 6 (ADC)
• DC Current per I/O Pin: 20 mA
• Flash Memory: 1MB
• SRAM: 128KB
• EEPROM: 2KB
• Clock Speed: 120 MHz ARM Cortex M3

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect a power supply to the VIN and GND pins, ensuring the voltage is within the recommended limits.

2. Connecting to Wi-Fi:

   • Use the Particle app or web IDE to configure the Photon module to connect to your Wi-Fi network.

3. Interfacing with Sensors/Actuators:

   • Connect sensors to the analog input pins for data acquisition.
   • Connect actuators such as LEDs or motors to the digital I/O pins, considering the current limits.

4. Programming the Board:

   • The Photon RedBoard can be programmed using the Particle Web IDE, Particle Dev, or the Arduino IDE with the Particle firmware libraries.

• Always ensure that the power supply voltage does not exceed the board's limits to prevent damage.
• When connecting external components, consider the current rating of the I/O pins.
• Use appropriate decoupling capacitors close to the board's power supply pins to minimize noise.
• Avoid placing the board in environments with extreme temperatures or humidity.

// This example demonstrates a simple blink program for the SparkFun Photon RedBoard

// Define the LED pin
int ledPin = D7; // On-board LED

void setup() {
  // Initialize the LED pin as an output
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);
}

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

• Wi-Fi Connectivity Problems:

  • Ensure the Wi-Fi credentials are entered correctly.
  • Check the signal strength and ensure the Photon is within range of the router.

• Board Not Powering On:

  • Verify the power supply voltage and connections.
  • Check for any visible signs of damage or short circuits.

• Inconsistent Behavior or Crashes:

  • Ensure that the firmware is up to date.
  • Check for adequate power supply decoupling.

• Resetting the Board:

  • Use the RST pin to reset the board if it becomes unresponsive.

• Safe Mode:

  • Enter safe mode to diagnose firmware issues by holding down the SETUP button, then tapping the RESET button.

• Firmware Updates:

  • Regularly update the firmware through the Particle Web IDE to ensure optimal performance.

Q: Can I use the Arduino IDE to program the Photon RedBoard? A: Yes, with the Particle firmware libraries installed, you can use the Arduino IDE.

Q: What is the maximum current the 3V3 pin can supply? A: The 3V3 pin can typically supply up to 100 mA.

Q: How do I connect to the Particle Cloud? A: Use the Particle app or web IDE to configure the Photon module with your Wi-Fi credentials, and it will automatically connect to the Particle Cloud.

Q: Can I use the Photon RedBoard with a battery? A: Yes, you can power the board with a battery, as long as the voltage is within the specified limits.