The Arduino Pro Mini ATmega168 Black is a compact and affordable version of the Arduino board. With a 5V operating voltage and 16MHz clock speed, it offers a minimalistic design without a built-in USB connector or serial converter. This allows for flexibility and cost savings. Ideal for projects with space constraints or a need for a lower-priced option, the Pro Mini ATmega168 Black provides a reliable platform for prototyping and developing electronic projects.

 

Package Includes:

• 1 x Arduino Pro Mini ATmega168p 5V16Mhz Black (Compatible)

 

Features:

• Microcontroller: ATmega168P, providing 16KB of flash memory, 1KB of EEPROM, and 1KB of SRAM for program storage and data manipulation.
• Operating Voltage: 5V, suitable for a wide range of electronic components and modules.
• Input Voltage: Accepts input voltages from 5V to 12V. If using 5V, input it to Vcc; if using above 5V, input it to the RAW pin.
• Digital I/O Pins: 14 digital pins, including RXI, TXO, and pins 2 to 13. Among these, 6 pins (3, 5, 6, 9, 10, and 11) provide PWM output for controlling analog-like signals.
• Analog Input Pins: 8 analog input pins labeled as A0, A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, and A7, allowing for precise analog signal measurements.
• DC Current per I/O Pin: Each I/O pin can handle up to 40 mA of current, while the total maximum allowed for all pins combined is 150 mA.
• Flash Memory: 16KB, with 2KB used by the bootloader, providing ample space for storing program code.
• SRAM: 1KB, allowing for temporary data storage during program execution.
• EEPROM: 512 bytes of non-volatile memory, suitable for storing small amounts of data that need to be retained even when power is removed.
• Clock Speed: 16MHz, ensuring efficient and speedy execution of code.
• 5V Regulating Circuit: The board includes a built-in 5V voltage regulator for stable power supply to connected components.

 

Description:

The Arduino Pro Mini ATmega168 Black is a compact and cost-effective microcontroller board designed for various electronic projects. Operating at 5V with a clock speed of 16MHz, it is equipped with an ATmega168P microcontroller, offering 16KB of flash memory, 1KB of EEPROM, and 1KB of SRAM for program storage and data manipulation. The board features 14 digital I/O pins, including RXI, TXO, and pins 2 to 13, with 6 of them providing PWM output for precise control of analog-like signals. With 8 analog input pins labeled as A0 to A7, the Arduino Pro Mini ATmega168 Black enables accurate measurement of analog signals. It incorporates a 5V regulating circuit, ensuring a stable power supply for connected components. Each I/O pin can handle up to 40mA of DC current, with a total maximum allowed current of 150mA for all pins combined. With 16KB of flash memory (including 2KB used by the bootloader), 1KB of SRAM, and 512 bytes of EEPROM, the Arduino Pro Mini ATmega168 Black provides ample storage capacity for program code and data. Its 16MHz clock speed ensures efficient code execution. The board accepts input voltages ranging from 5V to 12V, with 5V being supplied to Vcc or the RAW pin, depending on the input voltage used. Compact in size and lacking a built-in USB connector or serial converter, the Arduino Pro Mini ATmega168 Black allows for flexibility and customization. It serves as a reliable platform for prototyping and developing electronic projects, offering compatibility with the Arduino ecosystem and a wide range of libraries and examples available online.

 

Principle of Work:

The Arduino Pro Mini ATmega168 Black functions based on the principles of the ATmega168P microcontroller. The microcontroller is the brain of the board, responsible for executing the code and controlling the various operations, and this is how the board works internally:

1. Microcontroller: The ATmega168P microcontroller is at the heart of the Arduino Pro Mini. It contains a central processing unit (CPU) along with memory and peripherals. The microcontroller executes instructions stored in its flash memory, which is where the code is uploaded and stored.
2. Clock: The board operates at a clock speed of 16MHz, which determines the rate at which instructions are processed. The clock signal synchronizes the operations of the microcontroller, ensuring precise timing and efficient execution of code.
3. Input/Output (I/O) Pins: The Arduino Pro Mini has a set of digital and analog I/O pins. Digital pins can be configured as inputs or outputs to read or control digital signals. Analog pins can measure analog voltages within a specified range, allowing for precise analog signal measurement.
4. Peripherals: The microcontroller interfaces with various peripherals and components connected to the board. This includes sensors, actuators, displays, communication modules, and more. By interacting with these peripherals, the Arduino Pro Mini can sense its environment and control external devices.
5. Libraries: The Arduino Pro Mini is compatible with the Arduino software platform, which provides a vast collection of libraries and functions. Libraries simplify complex tasks and enable easy integration with external devices. Programmers can utilize these libraries to extend the functionality of the board and interact with a wide range of sensors and modules.
6. Power Supply: The board requires a stable power supply of 5V, which can be provided either through an external power source or regulated from a higher voltage input. The power supply ensures that the microcontroller and connected components receive the necessary voltage to operate reliably.

By writing code using the Arduino programming language and uploading it to the board, users can control the behavior of the Arduino Pro Mini. The code can include tasks such as reading sensor data, making decisions, performing calculations, and controlling output devices.

 

Pinout of the Module:

• Digital Pins: The board has a total of 14 digital I/O pins, labeled from 0 to 13. These pins can be used to read or control digital signals. Pin 0 is called RX1, and Pin 1 is called TX0, which is used for serial communication.
• Analog Pins: The board has 8 analog input pins, which can be used to read analog voltages from sensors. Additionally, pins A4 and A5 can also be used for the I2C communication protocol, which enables communication with compatible devices. The first 6 analog pins can also be used as interrupts, allowing the board to respond to specific events.
• Communication Protocols: The Arduino Pro Mini supports three communication protocols: Serial, I2C, and SPI. These protocols allow the board to exchange data with other peripherals such as sensors and registers. Serial communication is used for programming the board, while I2C and SPI enable communication with external devices.
• TXD & RXD Pins: These pins are used for serial communication. TXD is responsible for transmitting data, while RXD receives data. They are used for uploading code and for serial communication with other devices.
• SPI Pins: The board has four pins, labeled 10 (SS), 11 (MOSI), 12 (MISO), and 13 (SCK), which are used for communication using the SPI protocol. These pins facilitate data transfer between the Arduino Pro Mini and other SPI-compatible devices.
• I2C Pins: Two pins, A4 and A5, are used for I2C communication. Pin A4 is the serial data line (SDA), which carries the data, while pin A5 is the serial clock line (SCL), which provides the synchronization for the data transfer.
• PWM: The board has six digital pins, labeled 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, and 11, that support Pulse Width Modulation (PWM). PWM allows for controlling the intensity or position of connected devices, such as LEDs or motors, by adjusting the width of the signal.
• External Interrupts: The board has two external interrupts, called T0 (at Pin 4) and T1 (at Pin 5). These interrupts can be used to respond to specific events or signals from external devices, providing a way to trigger actions on the board.

 

Applications:

• Traffic Light Count Down Timer: The board can be used to create a count-down timer for traffic lights, indicating the remaining time for each signal phase. This helps improve traffic flow and enhance safety on roads.
• IoT Systems: The Arduino Pro Mini is well-suited for Internet of Things (IoT) projects. It can connect to various sensors, collect data, and communicate with other devices or a cloud platform. This enables the development of smart home systems, environmental monitoring, and more.
• Parking Lot Counter: With its digital and analog input pins, the board can be employed to develop a parking lot counter system. It can detect vehicle presence or absence and keep track of the available parking spaces in real-time.
• Embedded Systems: The compact size and low power consumption make the Arduino Pro Mini ideal for embedded system applications. It can be integrated into devices such as wearable gadgets, smart appliances, or small automation systems.
• Home Automation: The board can be utilized to automate various tasks within a home. It can control lights, thermostats, door locks, and other devices, offering convenience and energy efficiency.
• Industrial Automation: Arduino Pro Mini can be part of industrial automation solutions. It can interface with sensors, actuators, and control systems to monitor and control manufacturing processes, machinery, or industrial equipment.
• Medical Instruments: The board can be employed in medical instruments and devices, such as patient monitoring systems or portable diagnostic tools. It can acquire data from sensors and perform data processing tasks efficiently.
• Emergency Light for Railways: The Arduino Pro Mini can be used to create an emergency lighting system for railways. It can detect power outages or emergencies and activate appropriate lighting to ensure passenger safety.

 

Circuit:

We will not need any circuit, in this testing code, we will rely on the built-in LED on the 13th pin.

 

Connecting with Arduino First Time

1. Locate the programming header on the Pro Mini. It is a row of four pins labeled "GND," "VCC," "RXI," and "TXO," with "DTR" on the side of the board.
2. Prepare a female-to-female Dupont cable or any suitable connector for the connection.
3. Connect the "GND" pin of the programming header to the corresponding ground pin on the FTDI Basic Breakout. This ensures a common ground between the two devices.
4. Connect the "VCC" pin of the programming header to the 5V output pin or the VCC pin on the FTDI Basic Breakout. This provides power to the Pro Mini during programming.
5. Connect the "RXI" pin of the programming header to the "TX" (transmit) pin on the FTDI Basic Breakout. This establishes the receive connection between the Pro Mini and the FTDI converter.
6. Connect the "TXO" pin of the programming header to the "RX" (receive) pin on the FTDI Basic Breakout. This establishes the transmit connection between the Pro Mini and the FTDI converter.
7. If your FTDI converter has a "DTR" pin, connect it to the "DTR" pin on the Pro Mini. This allows the converter to reset the Pro Mini automatically during programming.

Note: Make sure to double-check the pin connections and ensure they are secure and properly aligned.

Before using the FTDI converter for the first time, you may need to install drivers for it on your computer. The specific driver installation process depends on the operating system you are using.

• For Windows: You can download and install the drivers for the FTDI converter from the official FTDI website. Visit their Driver Download page (https://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/VCP.htm), locate your operating system, and follow the instructions provided.
• For macOS: FTDI drivers are often included with the macOS system. In most cases, you do not need to install any additional drivers. However, if you encounter any issues, you can download the latest drivers from the FTDI website.
• For Linux: Most Linux distributions have built-in support for FTDI converters. The drivers are usually included in the kernel. Ensure that your system is up to date with the latest kernel updates to have the appropriate drivers.

 

1. Download the Arduino IDE from the official software page: Arduino Software.
2. Install the Arduino IDE on your computer by running the installer.
3. Open the Arduino IDE after the installation is complete.
4. In the Arduino IDE, navigate to "Tools" and select "Board." From the dropdown menu, choose "Arduino Pro or Pro Mini."
5. Next, go back to "Tools" and select "Processor." Choose "ATmega168(5V, 16MHz)" from the list.
6. Now, it's time to select the appropriate port to establish a connection between your computer and the Arduino Pro Mini. Go to "Tools" and then "Port." From the list of available ports, select the one corresponding to your Arduino Pro Mini. The exact port selection process may vary depending on the type of converter you are using. Ensure that you have the correct board selected and the proper port chosen before proceeding.

7. Once you have completed the setup, you are ready to upload your sketch (program) to the Arduino Pro Mini. Click on the arrow button located in the top left corner of the Arduino IDE. This will initiate the uploading process.

During the upload, you will see the code being compiled, and progress will be displayed in the bottom left corner of the Arduino IDE.

Please note that the actual appearance and placement of these options may vary slightly depending on the version of the Arduino IDE you are using.

 

 

Code:

void setup() {
pinMode(13,1);
}
void loop() {
digitalWrite(13,1);
delay(1000);
digitalWrite(13,0);
delay(1000);
}

 

Technical Details:

• ATmega168working at 16 MHz
• Max 200mA output
• 5-12V DC input
• ATmega168P running at 16MHz with external resonator (0.5% tolerance)
• PCB Thin: 0.8mm
• PCB Size in: mm
• Length: 33mm
• Width: 18mm
• Height: 3.5mm

 

Resources:

• You might also want to look at: the reference for the Arduino language.
• Getting Started Tutorial
• GitHub
• FTDI Basic Breakout: Manufacturer's Website
• Pro Mini Programming Header: Pro Mini Documentation
• Arduino IDE: Official Arduino Website

Comparisons:

The Pro Mini ATmega168 compatible Black and the Arduino Nano are both popular Arduino-compatible development boards, but they have several differences:

1. Form Factor: The Pro Mini ATmega168 compatible Black is designed in a minimalistic form factor, offering a compact size with a simplified layout. The Arduino Nano, on the other hand, features a more integrated design with a smaller footprint and additional built-in components, making it easier to work with on breadboards and in compact projects.
2. Microcontroller: The Pro Mini ATmega168 compatible Black utilizes the ATmega168 microcontroller, while the Arduino Nano typically uses the ATmega328 microcontroller. The ATmega328 has more flash memory, RAM, and EEPROM compared to the ATmega168, allowing for larger and more complex programs.
3. Voltage Regulator: The Pro Mini ATmega168 compatible Black typically includes a 5V voltage regulator. The Arduino Nano offers flexibility with different variants, providing options for both 5V and 3.3V voltage regulators. This allows you to select the appropriate voltage level for your specific project requirements.
4. USB Connectivity: The Pro Mini ATmega168 compatible Black does not have a built-in USB interface. In contrast, the Arduino Nano features an onboard USB-to-serial chip, enabling direct connection to a computer for programming and communication. This makes the Arduino Nano more convenient for rapid prototyping and development.
5. Pinout and I/O: While both boards have similar numbers of digital and analog pins, their pin configurations differ. The Pro Mini ATmega168 compatible Black has 14 digital I/O pins and 8 analog input pins, while the Arduino Nano offers 14 digital I/O pins and 8 analog input pins, with some variations depending on the specific Nano model.