How to Use SparkFun LilPad Protoboard Large: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SparkFun LilyPad Protoboard Large is a versatile and user-friendly prototyping board tailored for the LilyPad Arduino platform. This board is ideal for hobbyists, designers, and engineers who are interested in creating wearable electronics and e-textiles. With its large prototyping surface, the LilyPad Protoboard allows for the integration of various electronic components, enabling the development of complex projects.

• Wearable electronics
• E-textile projects
• Educational purposes for learning electronics and circuit design
• Rapid prototyping of LilyPad-based designs

The LilyPad Protoboard Large is designed to accommodate a wide range of electronic components and interconnections. Below are the key technical details:

• Dimensions: 50mm outer diameter
• Material: High-quality, flexible PCB material
• Connection Points: Multiple sew tabs for easy connection to LilyPad components

Note: The pin names correspond to the typical LilyPad Arduino pinout.

1. Powering the Protoboard:

   • Connect a power source to the VCC and GND sew tabs.
   • Ensure the power source matches the voltage requirements of the LilyPad Arduino.

2. Connecting Components:

   • Use conductive thread to sew electronic components to the protoboard's sew tabs.
   • Ensure that the connections are secure and that there are no short circuits.

3. Programming:

   • Connect the LilyPad Arduino to your computer using an appropriate USB cable.
   • Use the Arduino IDE to upload your code to the LilyPad Arduino.

• Always disconnect the power source before sewing or unsoldering components.
• Avoid overlapping conductive thread paths to prevent short circuits.
• Test each connection with a multimeter before powering up the circuit.
• Use a needle designed for conductive thread to ensure strong connections.

• Loose Connections: Ensure all sewn connections are tight and secure.
• Short Circuits: Check for overlapping conductive threads or exposed component leads.
• Power Issues: Verify that the power source is correctly connected and providing the appropriate voltage.

• Strengthening Connections: Apply a small amount of clear nail polish over sewn connections to reinforce them.
• Isolating Threads: Use heat-shrink tubing or fabric patches to insulate areas where conductive threads may cross.
• Testing Components: Use a multimeter to test each component individually before integrating it into the circuit.

Q: Can I wash my LilyPad Protoboard project? A: Yes, but you should remove the power source and ensure that the project is completely dry before repowering.

Q: What type of power source should I use? A: A coin cell battery or a rechargeable LiPo battery designed for wearables is recommended.

Q: How do I connect non-LilyPad components to the protoboard? A: Non-LilyPad components can be sewn or soldered to the protoboard if they are compatible with the power specifications and pinout.

Here's a simple example of how to blink an LED using the LilyPad Arduino connected to the LilyPad Protoboard Large. This code assumes you have an LED connected to pin D13.

// Define the LED pin
const int ledPin = 13;

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

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

Note: Ensure that the LED is connected with the correct polarity, with the positive side to D13 and the negative side to GND.

Remember to adhere to the 80-character line length limit for code comments, wrapping text as necessary. This example demonstrates proper comment wrapping and clear, concise instructions for a simple operation.