How to Use Intel Edison Arduino Expansion Board: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Intel Edison Arduino Expansion Board is a development platform designed to extend the functionality of the Intel Edison module. It provides Arduino-compatible headers, making it easy to integrate with a wide range of sensors, actuators, and shields. This board is ideal for rapid prototyping, Internet of Things (IoT) applications, and projects requiring Arduino compatibility.

• IoT device prototyping
• Robotics and automation
• Environmental monitoring systems
• Wearable technology development
• Smart home applications
• Educational projects and workshops

The Intel Edison Arduino Expansion Board is designed to interface seamlessly with the Intel Edison module, offering a variety of features to support development.

• Power Supply: 7V–15V DC input via barrel jack or USB
• Operating Voltage: 5V (Arduino headers)
• Digital I/O Pins: 14 (6 PWM outputs)
• Analog Input Pins: 6 (10-bit resolution)
• Communication Interfaces: UART, I2C, SPI
• USB Ports: 1 micro-USB (device), 1 standard USB (host)
• Dimensions: 101.6mm x 68.6mm (Arduino Uno form factor)
• Weight: ~50g (without Intel Edison module)

The Arduino-compatible headers on the expansion board follow the standard Arduino Uno pinout. Below is a detailed description of the pins:

1. Attach the Intel Edison Module: Securely connect the Intel Edison module to the expansion board using the designated connectors.
2. Power the Board:
   • Use a 7V–15V DC adapter via the barrel jack, or
   • Connect the micro-USB port to a computer for power and programming.
3. Connect Sensors and Actuators: Use the Arduino-compatible headers to attach sensors, actuators, or shields.
4. Program the Board:
   • Install the Intel Edison drivers and tools on your computer.
   • Use the Arduino IDE or Intel XDK to write and upload code to the Edison module.
5. Monitor and Debug: Use the serial monitor in the Arduino IDE or a terminal program to debug your application.

• Power Supply: Ensure the power supply voltage is within the specified range (7V–15V). Exceeding this range may damage the board.
• Pin Voltage Levels: The digital I/O pins operate at 5V. Ensure connected devices are compatible with this voltage level.
• Heat Management: The Intel Edison module may generate heat during operation. Ensure proper ventilation to avoid overheating.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly update the Intel Edison firmware to ensure compatibility with the latest tools and libraries.

Below is an example of how to blink an LED connected to pin D13:

// Blink an LED connected to pin D13 on the Intel Edison Arduino Expansion Board

void setup() {
  pinMode(13, OUTPUT); // Set pin D13 as an output
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(13, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(13, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
}

1. The board does not power on:
   • Ensure the power supply is connected and within the specified voltage range.
   • Check the micro-USB cable and port for proper connection.
2. Unable to upload code:
   • Verify that the Intel Edison drivers are installed on your computer.
   • Ensure the correct COM port is selected in the Arduino IDE.
   • Reset the board by pressing the reset button and try uploading again.
3. Sensors or actuators not working:
   • Double-check the wiring and connections to the Arduino headers.
   • Ensure the components are compatible with the 5V logic level.
4. Serial communication not working:
   • Confirm that the correct baud rate is set in the serial monitor.
   • Ensure no other application is using the same COM port.

Q: Can I use standard Arduino shields with this board?
A: Yes, the Intel Edison Arduino Expansion Board is designed to be compatible with most Arduino Uno shields.

Q: Does the board support Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?
A: The Intel Edison module includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. These features can be accessed through the appropriate libraries and tools.

Q: How do I update the Intel Edison firmware?
A: Use the Intel Edison Setup Tool or follow the instructions on Intel's official website to update the firmware.

Q: Can I power the board using only USB?
A: Yes, the board can be powered via the micro-USB port, but ensure the connected USB port can supply sufficient current for your application.

Q: What is the maximum current output of the 5V and 3.3V pins?
A: The maximum current output depends on the power source and the Intel Edison module's power consumption. Refer to the Intel Edison datasheet for detailed power specifications.