General Guide to SparkFun Blocks for Intel® Edison

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Input Blocks

The input Block category shows how each Block can bring data into the Edison for processing. These inputs can be raw signal level, or processed data from an external sensor. These inputs rely on a number of communication methods that are explained with each Block. These blocks take the raw functionality of the Edison and make it accessible to the user.

SparkFun Block for Intel® Edison - 9 Degrees of Freedom The 9 DOF Block leverages the LSM9DS0 to provide the Edison with an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). Use this Block to determine orientation, acceleration, and compass headings. The sensor utilizes I2C by default. With some reconfiguration of the jumpers, it can be used with the SPI interface.
	SparkFun Block for Intel® Edison - ADC The Analog-Digital Converter (ADC) Block is a great way to interface with sensors and devices that output signals in an analog (variable voltage) format. The block gives the users a 12-bit delta-sigma converter that is multiplexed to 4 single inputs or 2 differential input pairs. This Block communicates over I2C and with some jumpers, you can support up to 4 Blocks in a stack.
SparkFun Block for Intel® Edison - Arduino The Arduino Block is extremely versatile. Programmed via UART1 on the expansion header, it's possible to use the Arduino as a serial interface to any sensor that would normally work with an Arduino Pro Mini. The Arduino Block is great when you need precise timing of sensors such as WS2812 LED's
	SparkFun Block for Intel® Edison - GPIO The GPIO block provides level shifted input capabilities to the Edison. All general purpose GPIO has been broken out and grouped by function. The Edison has eight general GPIO, four GPIO with PWM capability, and four GPIO that can act as a second UART. Due to the bi-directional capability of the level shifters, it's necessary to provide pullup/pulldown resistors when using pins as an input.
SparkFun Block for Intel® Edison - I2C The I2C Block is a great way to interface with any external sensor or device that communicates over I2C. This block is capable of providing 3.3V or VSYS power to your devices. This device provides level shifting from the 1.8V Edison signals to either of the selected voltages on the Block. It is possible to hack this device to provide 5V level shifting.
	SparkFun Block for Intel® Edison - OLED Based on the Micro OLED breakout and MicroView, the OLED Block gives the user 64x48 pixels of blue-on-black display. This Block also has two buttons and a 5-way switch. Use these to create games, and interactive menues.
SparkFun Block for Intel® Edison - UART The UART block can be useful in connecting the Edison with legacy hardware or GPS receivers. The UART block provides level shifted access to either UART1 or UART2. Using a RS232 Shifter it is possible to connect an Edison to RS232 devices commonly found in older automation equipment and instrumentation.