How to Use Particle Photon 2: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Particle Photon 2 is a powerful, Wi-Fi enabled microcontroller designed for Internet of Things (IoT) projects. It features an ARM Cortex-M4 processor, ample flash memory, and RAM, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether you're building a smart home device, an industrial automation system, or a connected sensor network, the Photon 2 provides the performance and connectivity you need.

• Smart Home Devices: Control lights, thermostats, and other home appliances.
• Industrial Automation: Monitor and control machinery and processes.
• Connected Sensors: Collect and transmit data from environmental sensors.
• Wearable Technology: Develop health and fitness tracking devices.
• Prototyping and Development: Rapidly prototype and test IoT solutions.

1. Powering the Photon 2:

   • Connect the VIN pin to a power source (3.6V to 5.5V).
   • Connect the GND pin to the ground of the power source.

2. Connecting to Wi-Fi:

   • Use the Particle mobile app or Particle CLI to configure Wi-Fi credentials.

3. Programming the Photon 2:

   • Use the Particle Web IDE, Particle Workbench, or Particle CLI to write and upload code.

4. Basic Circuit Example:

   • Connect an LED to pin D0 with a current-limiting resistor.
   • Use the following code to blink the LED:

// Define the pin for the LED
int ledPin = D0;

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
}

• Power Supply: Ensure the power supply voltage is within the specified range (3.6V to 5.5V).
• Wi-Fi Signal: Place the Photon 2 in an area with a strong Wi-Fi signal for reliable connectivity.
• Pin Usage: Avoid exceeding the maximum current ratings for the I/O pins.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and apply firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and security.

1. Photon 2 Not Connecting to Wi-Fi:

   • Ensure the Wi-Fi credentials are correct.
   • Check if the Wi-Fi network is operational.
   • Move the Photon 2 closer to the Wi-Fi router.

2. Code Not Uploading:

   • Verify the USB connection.
   • Ensure the Photon 2 is in DFU mode (blinking yellow).
   • Check for any errors in the Particle CLI or Web IDE.

3. LED Not Blinking:

   • Check the wiring and connections.
   • Ensure the correct pin is defined in the code.
   • Verify the LED and resistor are functioning.

• Resetting the Photon 2:

  • Press and hold the RST button to reset the device.

• Safe Mode:

  • Enter Safe Mode by holding the MODE button until the LED blinks magenta. This can help troubleshoot firmware issues.

• Factory Reset:

  • Perform a factory reset by holding the MODE button until the LED blinks white, then release and hold again until it blinks white rapidly.

1. Can I use the Photon 2 with Arduino IDE?

   • No, the Photon 2 is programmed using the Particle Web IDE, Particle Workbench, or Particle CLI.

2. What is the maximum current for the I/O pins?

   • The maximum current for each I/O pin is 25mA.

3. How do I update the firmware?

   • Use the Particle Web IDE or Particle CLI to check for and apply firmware updates.

4. Can I use the Photon 2 without Wi-Fi?

   • Yes, the Photon 2 can run code without Wi-Fi, but certain features like cloud functions will be unavailable.

By following this documentation, users can effectively utilize the Particle Photon 2 in their IoT projects, ensuring reliable performance and connectivity.