How to Use Mega2560 R3 Pro CH340G: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Mega2560 R3 Pro CH340G is a versatile microcontroller board based on the ATmega2560, which is well-suited for projects requiring a large number of I/O pins and more memory space. It is compatible with most shields designed for the Arduino Mega2560 R3. The inclusion of the CH340G USB-to-serial converter makes it an economical alternative to other boards for hobbyists and educators.

• Robotics
• 3D printers
• Home automation systems
• Complex control systems
• Educational projects and prototypes

• Microcontroller: ATmega2560
• Operating Voltage: 5V
• Input Voltage (recommended): 7-12V
• Input Voltage (limits): 6-20V
• Digital I/O Pins: 54 (of which 15 provide PWM output)
• Analog Input Pins: 16
• DC Current per I/O Pin: 20 mA
• DC Current for 3.3V Pin: 50 mA
• Flash Memory: 256 KB of which 8 KB used by bootloader
• SRAM: 8 KB
• EEPROM: 4 KB
• Clock Speed: 16 MHz
• LED_BUILTIN: Pin 13

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect a 7-12V power supply to the VIN and GND pins, or plug a USB cable into the board's USB port.

2. Connecting I/O:

   • Digital pins can be used as inputs or outputs. Set the mode in your code using pinMode(pin, mode);.
   • Analog pins are primarily for input but can also serve as digital pins if needed.

3. Uploading Sketches:

   • Connect the board to your computer using a USB cable.
   • Select "Arduino Mega or Mega 2560" in the Arduino IDE.
   • Choose the correct port for the CH340G under Tools > Port.
   • Click "Upload" to send your sketch to the board.

• Ensure that the power supply is within the recommended limits to avoid damaging the board.
• Do not draw more than 20 mA from any I/O pin.
• When using PWM, remember that not all digital pins support PWM output.
• Use external pull-up or pull-down resistors with inputs to ensure stable readings.
• Avoid connecting high-current devices directly; use external power sources and transistors or relays.

• Driver Installation: The CH340G requires drivers to be installed on some computers. Ensure that the correct drivers are installed.
• Board Not Recognized: Check the USB cable and port. Try a different cable or port if necessary.
• Sketch Upload Failure: Ensure the correct board and port are selected in the Arduino IDE. Press the reset button on the board just before uploading if issues persist.

• Driver Issues: Download and install the latest CH340 drivers from the manufacturer's website.
• Power Issues: If the board is unresponsive, check the power supply and connections.
• Connectivity Issues: Verify that the USB cable is fully inserted and functional.

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

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

Note: The example code provided is for the Arduino UNO but is also compatible with the Mega2560 R3 Pro CH340G, as they share the same pin for the built-in LED.

For more advanced usage and additional examples, refer to the Arduino official documentation and community forums.