101
<div class="well"><header><h3>The Arduino 101 Has Been Retired from SparkFun's Catalog!</h3></header> The Arduino 101 / Genuino 101 kit has been retired from SparkFun's catalog. The following tutorials listed are still here for you to read and enjoy, but may not be as useful as our <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials">newest tutorials</a>. Having trouble finding an older Arduino 101 tutorial that is not listed below? You can still find it <a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/search/results?term=Arduino+101">here under the tutorial search tab</a>.</div>
3D Printing
Create three dimensional objects using a 3D printer! 3D printing makes it possible to create custom parts, theatrical props, tools, and enclosures for your projects. Check out the following tutorials for ideas or [blog posts](https://www.sparkfun.com/news/tags/3d-printing) for more inspiration.
Actobotics
[Actobotics](https://www.sparkfun.com/pages/Actobotics) is a robotics building system based around extruded aluminum channels, gears, precision shafts, and ball bearings. Thanks to the two standardized hole patterns, nearly all Actobotics components can be intuitively connected together. The wide range of components makes building complex electromechanical prototypes or finished projects a reality. Check out the following tutorials using Actobotics, [Robotics 101 videos](https://www.sparkfun.com/videos#actobotics/d3MBTT10pxk) or some of our [blog post](https://www.sparkfun.com/news/tags/actobotics) for ideas. For more inspiration, check out the [tutorials](https://www.servocity.com/projects/view/all) and [videos](https://www.youtube.com/user/ServoCity/videos) from Actobotics.
Arduino
This popular development board is great for beginners and advanced users alike. It comes in a variety of flavors and is extensible with "shields" for adding special functionality. Find tutorials here to learn how to do cool stuff using the Arduino platform.
Artemis
<div class="text-center"><a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/artemis"><img src="https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/custom_pages/3/5/8/artemis-logo.jpg"></a></div> <br /><br /> The [SparkFun Artemis Module](https://www.sparkfun.com/Artemis) is a Cortex-M4F with BLE 5.0 running up to 96MHz and with as low power as 6uA per MHz (less than 5mW). This is the world's first module to bridge the market between hobbyists and consumer products. We've packaged all the power of a modern microcontroller into a module that is both extremely easy to use but is mass-market ready. Measuring 10x15mm, this board has all the support circuitry you need to use the fantastic Apollo3 processor in your next project. We custom built the Arduino core from the ground up, making it fast and as light weight as possible. Additionally, the Artemis has an advanced HAL (hardware abstraction layer) allowing users to push the modern Cortex-M4F architecture to its limit. With 1M flash and 384k RAM you'll have plenty of room for your code. The Artemis module runs at 48MHz with a 96MHz turbo mode available and with Bluetooth to boot! We recommend looking at our [Designing with the SparkFun Artemis](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/designing-with-the-sparkfun-artemis) and [Artemis Development with Arduino](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/artemis-development-with-arduino) tutorials to get started, or check out tutorials tagged with [Artemis](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/tags/Artemis) to start working with hardware!
Articles
Articles are neat!
BadgerHack
The BadgerStick that you received by visiting a SparkFun booth at one of the various events we've attended can be hacked to perform a wide variety of tasks with Arduino. Below are a few tutorials to get started using the microcontroller. <br /> <br /> <i>Note: The SparkFun RedStick, which is the production version of the BadgerStick.</i>
Biometrics
The following tutorials use <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biometrics">biometric</a> sensors to measure biological signatures. Some of these measurements include fingerprints, voice, muscle (EMG), brainwaves (EEG), or heart rate (ECG)!
Communication
Embedded electronics is all about interlinking circuits (processors or other integrated circuits) to create a symbiotic system. In order for those individual circuits to swap their information, they must share a common communication protocol. Hundreds of communication protocols have been defined to achieve this data exchange, and, in general, each can be separated into one of two categories: parallel or serial. Serial <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/serial-communication#uarts">UARTs</a>, <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/serial-peripheral-interface-spi/all">SPI</a>, and <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/i2c">I2C</a> are used with many products in the SparkFun catalog to pass data. They can be used with a <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/terminal-basics">serial terminal</a> to help troubleshoot issues or display data. However, there are other methods of communication some of which include <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/ir-communication">IR</a>, <a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/tutorials/215">RS-232</a>, <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/ast-can485-hookup-guide#introduction-to-rs485">RS-485</a>, <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/ast-can485-hookup-guide#introduction-to-can-bus">CAN</a>, <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/midi-tutorial">MIDI</a>, and <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/introduction-to-dmx">DMX</a>. Check out the tutorials below to start relaying data between your devices!
Concepts
These are the various concepts that people may need to know while learning a technology tutorial and could be required to complete a ‘hookup’ tutorial. Concepts are most often a general building block that may be built upon other concepts. Concepts can generally be learned without physical objects but are reinforced with a hookup tutorial.
Eagle
Eagle is one of many PCB CAD softwares out there. Once a project is past the prototyping phase, it will usually end up on a PCB. If you plan on making the circuit more than a few times, you may want to look into designing the circuit with a CAD software (i.e. Eagle) to save time wiring the project or if you plan on shrinking the size of the overall circuit. Check out the following tutorials to get started making your own custom PCB. Not sure where to start? Try looking at <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/how-to-install-and-setup-eagle">How to Install and Setup Eagle</a> tutorial. Or check out this <a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/EAGLE">flowchart of tutorials and tools to help guide you bring your concept to a finished PCB design</a>.
Education
<center><a href="https://sparkfuneducation.com/index.html"><img src="https://sparkfuneducation.com/img/logo.png"></a></center> <br /> <br /> We believe electronics is more than a hobby or a career path; it’s a creative medium for advancing teaching and learning. Our curriculum and resources are designed specifically as hands-on learning tools to help today’s students build skills for the creative and digital economy — critical thinking, collaboration, communication, curiosity, problem solving and invention. We recommend checking out the tutorials tagged with [education](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/tags/education) or [concepts](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/tags/concepts) to start. We also recommend [checking out the lesson plans using SparkFun products on WorkBench](https://edu.workbencheducation.com/partners/sparkfun) for ideas.
Electrical Engineering
These tutorials help form some of the fundamentals you would learn in an Electrical Engineering course of study.
EL Wire
When it comes to creating projects that glow, nothing beats Electroluminescent wire (or EL wire for short). LEDs are fun and all, but EL wire is what all the hip kids are using. Whether you just want to light up your bicycle for an evening cruise or you're creating an entire light up costume for Burning Man, EL wire is a great solution. We recommend checking out the <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/getting-started-with-electroluminescent-el-wire">Getting Started with Electroluminescent (EL) Wire</a>.
Enclosure
<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrical_enclosure">Electrical enclosure</a> are great for protecting your project or securing the bundle of wires in a box. Depending on the application, the material can range from cardboard, plastic, acrylic, wood, or metal for traditional enclosures. Check out the following tutorials to cut, 3D print, or mount your prototyped circuit.
End of Life (EOL)
The main product or products that were used in this tutorial have been retired from the SparkFun catalog. These tutorials are available for reference if you still need access to the concepts, methods, hardware connections, and example code. Check out some of our latest tutorials through [GitHub Pages](https://docs.sparkfun.com/) tagged with [sparkfun-tutorial](https://github.com/topics/sparkfun-tutorial)!
E-Textiles
Also known as wearables, this is the world of electronics sewn right into your clothes! Find tutorials here that introduce the basics of machine-washable boards and conductive thread, as well as projects to get you inspired.
GPS
[GPS, or Global Positioning System](https://www.sparkfun.com/gps), is accessible from almost everywhere on Earth and provides exact coordinates of your current location so that you can figure out where you are. Combine that information with a good map and there's nothing you can't find. Check out our [GPS Buying Guide](https://www.sparkfun.com/pages/GPS_Guide) to compare the current [GPS modules available in the catalog](https://www.sparkfun.com/categories/4). We recommend looking at the [GPS Basics](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/gps-basics/all) tutorial to get started.
Hookup
This type of tutorial shows people how to get a specific product hooked up and working.
LEDs
[Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)](https://www.sparkfun.com/leds) are small, powerful lights that are used in many different applications. Blinking an LED is the classic starting point for learning how to program embedded electronics. It's the "Hello, World!" of microcontrollers. We recommend looking at the <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/light-emitting-diodes-leds">LED tutorial</a> and <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/sparkfun-inventors-kit-experiment-guide---v40/circuit-1a-blink-an-led">SIK experiment guide</a> to get started.
LilyPad
<center><a href="http://sparkfun.com/LilyPad"><img src="https://sparkfuneducation.com/img/education/lilypad/lilypad-logo.png"></a></center> The [LilyPad system](http://sparkfun.com/LilyPad) is a set of sewable electronic pieces designed to help you build soft, sewable, interactive e-textile (electronic textile) projects. Using LilyPad pieces is a great way to experiment with electronics through the lens of crafting or fiber arts. Each LilyPad piece has large conductive sew tabs for easy sewing and a rounded shape so as not to snag fabric or cut thread. To get started, check out the article on [Getting Started with LilyPad](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/getting-started-with-lilypad) or tutorials tagged with LilyPad for project ideas!
MakeCode
Microsoft [Makecode](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/getting-started-with-the-microbit#using-makecode) is a web-based programming language used with microcontrollers like the [BBC micro:bit](https://www.sparkfun.com/microbit) and [Chibi Chip](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/getting-started-with-chibi-chip-and-clip). Users have the ability to choose between drag and drop block-based or text-based programming. SparkFun uses the block-based examples with micro:bit for a majority of the programming examples. Check out the following tutorials [tagged with MakeCode](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/tags/makecode) for examples!
microbit
<a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/microbit"> <header class="hidden-xs" style="display: block; text-align: left; background: url('https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/3/e/c/4/9/microbit-bg.png') no-repeat center center scroll; -webkit-background-size: cover; -moz-background-size: cover; background-size: cover; -o-background-size: cover; border-radius:5px;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-6 col-sm-5" style="margin-top:15px; padding:30px;"> <img src="https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/5/2/d/c/c/microbit-logo-white.png" class="img-responsive" style="margin:0 20px 25px 20px;"> </div> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-5 col-sm-6" style="margin:4%;"> <div class="flex-video" style="padding-bottom: 56.25% !important;"> <iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/APcshxydBYI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> </div> </div> </div> </div> </header> </a> <br> The [BBC micro:bit](https://www.sparkfun.com/microbit) is a pocket-sized computer that lets you get creative with digital technology. You can code, customize, and control your micro:bit from anywhere! You can use your micro:bit for all sorts of unique creations, from robots to musical instruments and more. We recommend looking at our [Getting Started with the micro:bit](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/getting-started-with-the-microbit) or tutorials tagged with [micro:bit](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/tags/microbit) to start.
micro:bit
<a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/microbit"> <header class="hidden-xs" style="display: block; text-align: left; background: url('https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/3/e/c/4/9/microbit-bg.png') no-repeat center center scroll; -webkit-background-size: cover; -moz-background-size: cover; background-size: cover; -o-background-size: cover; border-radius:5px;"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-6 col-sm-5" style="margin-top:15px; padding:30px;"> <img src="https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/5/2/d/c/c/microbit-logo-white.png" class="img-responsive" style="margin:0 20px 25px 20px;"> </div> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-5 col-sm-6" style="margin:4%;"> <div class="flex-video" style="padding-bottom: 56.25% !important;"> <iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/APcshxydBYI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> </div> </div> </div> </div> </header> </a> <br> The [BBC micro:bit](https://www.sparkfun.com/microbit) is a pocket-sized computer that lets you get creative with digital technology. You can code, customize, and control your micro:bit from anywhere! You can use your micro:bit for all sorts of unique creations, from robots to musical instruments and more. We recommend looking at our [Getting Started with the micro:bit](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/getting-started-with-the-microbit) or tutorials tagged with [micro:bit](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/tags/micro-bit) to start.
MicroMod
<div align="center"><a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/micromod"><img src="https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/learn_tutorials/1/1/8/9/micromod-logo.jpg" alt="MicroMod Banner" title="Click here to learn more about MicroMod!"></a></div><br /> <br /> [MicroMod](https://www.sparkfun.com/micromod) is a modular interface ecosystem that connects a microcontroller “processor board” to various “carrier board” peripherals. Utilizing the M.2 standard, the MicroMod standard is designed to easily swap out processors on the fly. Pair a specialized carrier board for the project you need with your choice of compatible processor!
micropython
MicroPython is an open source interpreter for the Python programming language developed specifically for microcontrollers. It is a subset of the Python 3 language that has been pared down to run efficiently on several microcontrollers. If you are familiar with Python or looking for a quick way to write code for a microcontroller (that isn't C/C++, Arduino, or assembly), MicroPython is a good option. Depending on the hardware, not all Python modules are available. Make sure to check the documentation.
MicroView
The SparkFun MicroView is the first chip-size Arduino-compatible module that lets you see what your Arduino is thinking by using a built-in Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) display. In the heart of MicroView, there is an ATMEL ATmega328P and a 64x48 pixel micro OLED display, together with other passive components that allow the MicroView to operate without any external components other than a power supply. It fits nicely into a breadboard to make prototyping easy.
Motors
Motors provide a way for our devices to interact with us and the environment. They can provide haptic feedback for notification, add movement to your robot, help 3D print a model, or CNC mill a material. Some basic motors types include DC brush, [servos](https://www.sparkfun.com/servos), brushless, stepper, linear motors. Not sure what motor to select? Check out [Motors and Selecting the Right One](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/motors-and-selecting-the-right-one) and the [hobby servo tutorial](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/hobby-servo-tutorial) for more information to start.
Nvidia
Nvidia® is known for designing graphical processor units (GPUs). With the [Jetson Nano™](https://www.sparkfun.com/Jetson) Developer Kit, NVIDIA empowers developers, researchers, students, and hobbyists to explore AI frameworks and models for applications like image classification, object detection, segmentation, and speech processing. Check below for tutorials related to the Jetson Nano!
pcDuino
<div class="well"><header><h3>pcDuino Has Been Retired from SparkFun's Catalog!</h3></header> The following tutorials cover concepts or technologies that are no longer current. The following tutorials listed are still here for you to read and enjoy, but may not be as useful as our <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials">newest tutorials</a>. Having trouble finding an older pcDuino tutorial that is not listed below? You can still find it <a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/search/results?term=pcduino+retired">here under the tutorial search tab</a>.</div>
phant
<div class="well"><header><h3>Phant is No Longer in Operation</h3></header> Unfortunately Phant, our data-streaming service, is no longer in service. The system has reached capacity and, like a less-adventurous Cassini, has plunged conclusively into a fiery and permanent retirement. There are several other maker-friendly, data-streaming services and/or IoT platforms available as alternatives. The three we recommend are Blynk, ThingSpeak, and Cayenne. You can read our <a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/news/2413">blog post on the topic</a> for an overview and helpful links for each platform. Having trouble finding an older phant tutorial that is not listed below? You can still find it <a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/search/results?term=phant+retired">here under the tutorial search tab</a>.</div>
Power
<a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/electric-power">Power</a> is one of the more fundamental concepts in electronics. Check out the following tutorials to reduce current consumption, toggle high power applications, monitor your battery, or charge your LiPo battery safely! Not sure the power requirements of your project? Try checking out the tutorial on <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/how-to-power-a-project">how to power your project</a> for some considerations.
Projects
Need inspiration? Find it here! These tutorials feature special projects broken down into steps to illustrate how you can use various concepts, skills, and technologies to build awesome stuff.
ProtoSnap
Reference for ProtoSnap resources
pxt
The Microsoft Programming eXperience Toolkit (PXT) is an open source framework for creating block-based/text-based online editors. The [MakeCode editor](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/getting-started-with-the-microbit#using-makecode) is one example that builds on top of PXT.
Python
<center><a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/python"><img src="https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/custom_pages/3/4/1/python-logo-light-text.png"></a></center> [Python](https://www.sparkfun.com/python) is a programming language that lets you write code quickly and effectively. With a design philosophy that focuses on code readability, Python is easy to learn and use. Thanks to the advances in single board computers and powerful microcontrollers, Python can now be used to control hardware. Check out some of the tutorials below to get started graphing, charting and GUI design in Python.
Qwiic
<div align="center"><a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/qwiic"><img src="https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/custom_pages/2/7/2/qwiic-logo-registered.jpg" alt="Qwiic Banner" title="Click here to learn more about Qwiic!"></a></div><br /> <br /> The [SparkFun Qwiic Connect System](https://www.sparkfun.com/qwiic?) is an ecosystem of I<sup>2</sup>C sensors, actuators, shields, and cables that make prototyping faster and less prone to error. Get it? It's <span style="text-decoration: line-through; color:lightgray;">quick</span> Qwiic! The following [tutorials tagged takes advantage of the Qwiic system](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/tags/qwiic).
Raspberry Pi
The Raspberry Pi is a popular single-board computer, especially for those interested in programming with Scratch or Python. We recommend checking out [Getting Started with Raspberry Pi](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/raspberry-pi-3-starter-kit-hookup-guide) to get started before exploring the tutorials tagged with [Raspberry Pi](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/tags/raspberry-pi).
RED-V
The [RED-V RedBoard](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/red-v-redboard-hookup-guide) and [Thing Plus](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/red-v-thing-plus-hookup-guide) are development boards that use the RISC-V (pronounced “risk-five”), which is a free and open instruction set architecture (ISA). Check out respective hookup guides to get started!
Shields
Shields are PCBs you can easily stack on development boards. The application circuits populated on shields add extra functionality to easily prototype a project. In general, these are called "daughter boards." The terminology and layout depends on the environment platform and form factor. Shields for Arduino typically use the Arduino Uno R3 footprint. However, shields can have a different layout depending on the architecture. Stackable PCBs for the Raspberry Pi are referred to as <a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/phats">HATs or pHATs</a> while the BeagleBone refers to them as Capes. Check out our [tutorial about shields](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/arduino-shields-v2) for more information.
Single Board Computer
Need more brains for your project? There are several different kinds of Single Board Computers today that will give you all of the power of a modern computer on a small board with lots of inputs and outputs.
Skill
These are the various skills that people may need to know while learning a technology tutorial and could be required to complete a ‘hookup’ tutorial. Skills are most often learned by doing a physical action or using a physical thing.
Soldering
[Soldering](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/tags/soldering) is one of the most fundamental skills needed to dabble in the world of electronics. We here at SparkFun believe that soldering should be a skill in everyone’s arsenal. In a world of increasing technological surroundings, we believe it is important that people everywhere be able to not only understand the technologies they use everyday but also be able to build, alter, and fix them as well. Soldering is one of many skills that will empower you to do just that. We recommend looking at [How to Solder: Through-Hole Soldering](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/how-to-solder-through-hole-soldering) tutorial to get started.
SparkFun Edge
In collaboration with Google and Ambiq, SparkFun's Edge Development Board is based around the newest edge technology and is perfect for getting your feet wet with voice and even gesture recognition without relying on the distant services of other companies. With the Apollo3 micrcontroller, processing and decision making is made remotely on the device without the need to connect online. This dramatically reduces costs and complexity while limiting potential data privacy leaks. For more information, check out the [SparkFun Edge Hookup Guide](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/sparkfun-edge-hookup-guide)!
Teardown
Curious about what electronics lurk inside certain products? The following articles linked below open up a few products up to see what makes them tick! Make sure to also <a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/news/tags/teardown">check out our blogs for more teardowns</a>!
Technology
These are general tutorials covering a type of technology. How does the technology work? Why might I need it? What do I need to look out for when using it?
Teensy
The <a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/categories/267">Teensy line</a> is a collection of microcontrollers from PJRC based around several different powerful ICs. If you have not already, make sure to check out our tutorial on <a href="https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/getting-started-with-the-teensy">Getting Started with the Teensy</a> for tips on soldering headers and programming the development board for your projects!
Thing Plus
<div align="center"><a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/thing_plus"><img src="https://cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/custom_pages/1/4/8/3/thing_.png" alt="Thing Plus Banner"></a></div><br /><br /> The <a href="https://www.sparkfun.com/thing_plus">Thing Plus</a> is a footprint that is used for a board. Each board uses the same specifications (e.g. pin location, common peripherals, board dimensions, etc.) so you can easily switch between different development boards and stack [shields](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/arduino-shields-v2/all) that use the same footprint. The Thing Plus footprint is also Feather-compatible, so you can take advantage of existing shield options.
Time
Time is of the essence. Keep track of the date or time using a GPS module, Real Time Clock (RTC), or even grabbing the current time from the Internet. Whatever your preference, start making your own clock, timers, generating a signal, or adding a timestamp with your sensor data. Check out the tutorials below for ideas!
Weather
Monitor your environment and log it to the cloud by building your own personal weather station! Or pull data from a server to check out the forecast in your area. Check out the following tutorials to start reading temperature, humidity, pressure, UV, ambient light, hazardous gases, water levels, wind speed and direction, soil moisture, TVOC, eCO2, and even lightning in your environment!
Wireless
Transfer data between two or more devices without the use of wires! Some of these technologies include WiFi, cellular, Bluetooth, BLE, Zigbee, RFID, NFC, and GPS. Check out the following tutorials below to get started sending data into the air waves!
XBee
Welcome to the wireless world of XBee. XBees are tiny blue chips that can communicate wirelessly with each other. They can do simple things like replacing a couple of wires in serial UART communication, broadcast a signal to other XBees, or I/O line passing. If you have never used XBees before, we recommend looking at the [XBee Buying Guide](https://www.sparkfun.com/pages/xbee_guide) and [Exploring XBees and XCTU](https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/exploring-xbees-and-xctu) before getting started.
Old Tutorials
Looking for the old, archived tutorials? Head on over to the
archived tutorials on the main
SparkFun site.
Please be aware that the tutorials you find there are no longer
actively maintained.