Arduino Fundamentals and Circuit Basics

This unit introduces the Arduino ecosystem, core hardware (Arduino Uno and other boards), and the software workflow for writing and uploading sketches. Students learn foundational electrical concepts, measurement techniques, basic components (LEDs, buttons, motors, diodes, shields), and safe tool use to prepare for building and debugging more complex projects in later units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the Arduino ecosystem by comparing the Uno to other Arduino boards and shields and select the appropriate board or shield for a given project requirement
• Apply basic electrical principles and equations (voltage, current, resistance, Ohm’s law) to design, build, and measure simple circuits using LEDs, buttons, motors, diodes, and breadboards with a multimeter
• Demonstrate the software workflow by creating, uploading, and iterating Arduino sketches that implement tasks such as blinking, PWM control, and virtual buttons, and document debugging steps
• Evaluate and safely use hardware tools and practices—including soldering, proper wiring, and measurement techniques—to assemble, test, and troubleshoot circuits following industry safety and reliability guidelines