How to Use ProtoSnap - Pro Mini - FTDI: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ProtoSnap - Pro Mini - FTDI is an innovative prototyping platform that integrates an Arduino Pro Mini with an FTDI (Future Technology Devices International) USB-to-serial programming interface. This combination simplifies the process of developing, programming, and testing Arduino-based projects by providing a seamless connection between the microcontroller and a computer for programming and serial communication.

• Rapid prototyping of microcontroller-based projects
• Educational purposes for learning electronics and programming
• DIY electronics projects
• Robotics and automation systems
• Wearable electronics

• Microcontroller: ATmega328
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V or 5V (depending on the model)
• Input Voltage (recommended): 5V via FTDI
• Digital I/O Pins: 14 (of which 6 provide PWM output)
• Analog Input Pins: 6
• DC Current per I/O Pin: 40 mA
• Flash Memory: 32 KB (ATmega328) of which 0.5 KB used by bootloader
• SRAM: 2 KB (ATmega328)
• EEPROM: 1 KB (ATmega328)
• Clock Speed: 8 MHz (3.3V model) or 16 MHz (5V model)

1. Connecting to a Computer:

   • Connect the FTDI interface of the ProtoSnap - Pro Mini to a USB port on your computer using a mini-USB cable.
   • Ensure that the correct drivers for the FTDI chip are installed on your computer.

2. Programming the Arduino Pro Mini:

   • Open the Arduino IDE on your computer.
   • Select the correct board (Arduino Pro Mini) and processor (ATmega328) from the Tools menu.
   • Choose the correct port that corresponds to the FTDI interface.
   • Write or open the Arduino sketch you wish to upload.
   • Click the upload button in the Arduino IDE to program the Pro Mini.

3. Using External Components:

   • Connect external components such as sensors, LEDs, or motors to the appropriate pins on the Pro Mini, taking care to match the voltage levels and current requirements.

• Always ensure that the power supply voltage matches the operating voltage of your ProtoSnap - Pro Mini (3.3V or 5V).
• Do not exceed the maximum current rating for each I/O pin (40 mA) to prevent damage to the microcontroller.
• Use external power sources when connecting components that require more current than the Pro Mini can provide.
• Disconnect the Pro Mini from the USB port when working on the circuit to avoid short circuits or electrical shocks.

• The Pro Mini is not recognized by the computer:

  • Check the USB cable and ensure it is properly connected.
  • Verify that the FTDI drivers are installed on your computer.
  • Try using a different USB port or a different computer.

• Sketch fails to upload:

  • Ensure that the correct board and processor are selected in the Arduino IDE.
  • Check the selected port and make sure it corresponds to the FTDI interface.
  • Press the reset button on the Pro Mini just before uploading the sketch.

• External components are not working as expected:

  • Verify that all connections are secure and correctly wired.
  • Check that the power supply is adequate for the external components.
  • Ensure that the code uploaded to the Pro Mini is correct and free of errors.

• Double-check all connections and wiring against the circuit diagram.
• Use a multimeter to verify voltages and continuity in the circuit.
• Review the code for any logical errors or incorrect pin assignments.
• Consult online forums and communities for advice if the issue persists.

// Blink an LED connected to pin 13 of the ProtoSnap - Pro Mini

void setup() {
  pinMode(13, OUTPUT); // Initialize 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 above code is for illustrative purposes. The ProtoSnap - Pro Mini - FTDI is similar to the Arduino Pro Mini and can be programmed using the Arduino IDE with the appropriate board selection.