How to Use Arduino 101: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Arduino 101 is a versatile microcontroller board that integrates the Intel Curie module, which is designed for the Internet of Things (IoT) and wearable technology applications. It features a dual-core Intel Quark processor along with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connectivity, a six-axis accelerometer, and a gyroscope. The board is compatible with a wide range of Arduino shields and accessories, making it an excellent choice for hobbyists, educators, and professionals looking to develop interactive projects.

• IoT devices
• Wearable technology
• Educational projects
• Prototyping for embedded systems
• Robotics
• Wireless sensor networks

• Microcontroller: Intel Curie
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• Input Voltage (recommended): 7-12V
• Input Voltage (limit): 6-20V
• Digital I/O Pins: 14 (of which 4 provide PWM output)
• Analog Input Pins: 6
• DC Current per I/O Pin: 20 mA
• Flash Memory: 196 kB
• SRAM: 24 kB
• Clock Speed: 32 MHz
• Bluetooth LE: Built-in

1. Powering the Board: The Arduino 101 can be powered via the USB connection or with an external power supply. The power source is selected automatically.
2. Connecting to a Computer: Connect the board to your computer using a USB cable to upload sketches and communicate with the board.
3. Writing a Sketch: Use the Arduino IDE to write your code (sketches) and upload it to the board.
4. Interfacing with Sensors and Actuators: Connect sensors to the analog pins and actuators to the digital I/O pins, taking care not to exceed the current limits.

• Always disconnect the Arduino 101 from power sources before making or altering connections.
• Ensure that the voltage levels of peripherals are compatible with the Arduino 101's 3.3V logic.
• Use external power supplies when connecting components that draw more current than the USB can provide.
• Avoid exposing the board to static electricity, which can damage the microcontroller.

• Sketch not uploading: Check the USB cable and port, ensure the correct board and port are selected in the Arduino IDE.
• Board not recognized by computer: Install the latest drivers and reset the board.
• Inconsistent behavior: Ensure that the power supply is adequate and stable.

• Reset the Board: Press the reset button on the board to restart the microcontroller.
• Check Connections: Loose connections can cause unexpected behavior. Double-check all connections.
• Update Firmware: Ensure the board's firmware is up to date for optimal performance.

Q: Can the Arduino 101 be powered by a battery? A: Yes, it can be powered by a battery connected to the VIN pin, within the 6-20V limit.

Q: Is the Arduino 101 compatible with all Arduino shields? A: Most shields designed for the Arduino Uno will work with the Arduino 101, but check for 3.3V compatibility.

Q: How do I use Bluetooth functionality? A: The Arduino 101 includes built-in BLE. Use the CurieBLE library in the Arduino IDE to develop Bluetooth applications.

Here's a simple example of how to blink an LED connected to pin 13 on the Arduino 101:

// Pin 13 has an LED connected on most Arduino boards.
int led = 13;

// The setup routine runs once when you press reset:
void setup() {                
  // Initialize the digital pin as an output.
  pinMode(led, OUTPUT);     
}

// The loop routine runs over and over again forever:
void loop() {
  digitalWrite(led, HIGH);   // Turn the LED on (HIGH is the voltage level)
  delay(1000);               // Wait for a second
  digitalWrite(led, LOW);    // Turn the LED off by making the voltage LOW
  delay(1000);               // Wait for a second
}

Remember to keep the code comments concise and within the 80-character line length limit.