In this article, we will teach you how to use the ATtiny85 microcontroller with Arduino, its various applications, and how to set up and program it effectively. This post covers essential aspects of integrating the ATtiny85 with the Arduino ecosystem, including bootloader flashing and compatibility with other microcontrollers like the STM32.
How to use ATtiny85 with Arduino?
Using the ATtiny85 with Arduino involves several steps, including configuring your Arduino IDE, connecting the microcontroller, and uploading your code. Here’s a detailed guide:
- Install the ATtiny85 Board in Arduino IDE:
- Open the Arduino IDE and go to File > Preferences.
- In the “Additional Boards Manager URLs” field, add the URL for the ATtiny core (e.g., http://digistump.com/package_digistump_index.json).
- Next, navigate to Tools > Board > Boards Manager, search for “ATtiny,” and install the appropriate core.
- Select the Board and Processor:
- Go to Tools > Board and select “ATtiny85.”
- Set the clock frequency, typically 8 MHz, from Tools > Clock.
- Connect the ATtiny85:
- You can use an Arduino as an ISP (In-System Programmer) to upload sketches. Connect the Arduino to the ATtiny85 as follows:
- Arduino Pin 10 to ATtiny85 Reset
- Arduino Pin 11 to ATtiny85 MOSI
- Arduino Pin 12 to ATtiny85 MISO
- Arduino Pin 13 to ATtiny85 SCK
- GND and VCC connections accordingly.
- You can use an Arduino as an ISP (In-System Programmer) to upload sketches. Connect the Arduino to the ATtiny85 as follows:
- Upload the Sketch:
- Select the programmer type by going to Tools > Programmer and choosing “Arduino as ISP.”
- Finally, go to Sketch > Upload Using Programmer to upload your code to the ATtiny85.
By following these steps, you can effectively use the ATtiny85 with the Arduino IDE.
What can ATtiny85 be used for?
The ATtiny85 is a versatile microcontroller that can be utilized in various projects, including:
- Sensor Interfaces: It can read data from sensors, making it suitable for simple environmental monitoring systems.
- Actuator Control: The ATtiny85 can control LEDs, motors, and other actuators, allowing for robotics and automation applications.
- Wearable Devices: Its small size makes it ideal for wearable tech, such as fitness trackers or smartwatches.
- Simple Automation Tasks: It can manage tasks like turning on/off appliances based on specific conditions (e.g., light levels).
- Home Automation: With connectivity modules, the ATtiny85 can be integrated into smart home systems for controlling lights and devices remotely.
Its low power consumption and compact form factor enable a wide range of applications.
How to setup Digispark ATtiny85?
Setting up the Digispark ATtiny85 is straightforward. Here’s how you can get started:
What is the function of a microcontroller on an Arduino board?
- Install the Digispark Board:
- Open the Arduino IDE and navigate to File > Preferences.
- In the “Additional Boards Manager URLs” field, add http://digistump.com/package_digistump_index.json.
- Go to Tools > Board > Boards Manager, search for “Digispark,” and install the board.
- Select the Board:
- In the Arduino IDE, go to Tools > Board and choose “Digispark (USB).”
- Connect the Digispark:
- Plug the Digispark into your computer’s USB port. The ATtiny85 will appear as a USB device.
- Write and Upload Code:
- Write your Arduino sketch in the IDE.
- Click on the upload button. The IDE will prompt you to plug in your Digispark when it’s ready to upload the code.
- The code will be uploaded directly to the ATtiny85.
With these steps, you can set up and program your Digispark ATtiny85 quickly.
Can I use STM32 with Arduino?
Yes, you can use STM32 microcontrollers with Arduino. The STM32 series is supported by the Arduino IDE through the STM32duino core. Here’s how to get started:
- Install STM32 Board in Arduino IDE:
- Open Arduino IDE and go to File > Preferences.
- In the “Additional Boards Manager URLs” field, add the URL for the STM32 core (e.g., http://dan.drown.org/stm32duino/package_STM32duino_index.json).
- Go to Tools > Board > Boards Manager, search for “STM32,” and install the appropriate package.
- Select the Board:
- Choose the specific STM32 board you are using from Tools > Board.
- Upload Code:
- Write your sketch in the Arduino IDE.
- Connect your STM32 board to your computer and select the correct port from Tools > Port.
- Click the upload button to compile and upload your code.
This flexibility allows you to leverage the powerful features of STM32 microcontrollers while utilizing the user-friendly Arduino environment.
How to flash ATtiny85 bootloader?
Flashing the bootloader onto the ATtiny85 is essential for using it with Arduino. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare the Arduino as ISP:
- Connect an Arduino (e.g., Uno) to your computer and open the Arduino IDE.
- Load the ArduinoISP sketch (found under File > Examples > ArduinoISP) and upload it to the Arduino.
- Connect the ATtiny85:
- Wire the ATtiny85 to the Arduino as described in the previous sections (using the MOSI, MISO, SCK, and RESET pins).
- Select the ATtiny85 Board:
- In the Arduino IDE, go to Tools > Board and select “ATtiny85.”
- Set the clock frequency to the desired setting (typically 8 MHz).
- Select the Programmer:
- Choose “Arduino as ISP” under Tools > Programmer.
- Burn the Bootloader:
- Finally, click on Tools > Burn Bootloader. The IDE will flash the bootloader to the ATtiny85.
After successfully flashing the bootloader, you can upload sketches directly to the ATtiny85 using the Arduino IDE.
We hope this article helped you learn how to work with the ATtiny85 microcontroller, including its setup, applications, and programming techniques. We believe this explanation provides a comprehensive guide to getting started with ATtiny85 and enhancing your Arduino projects.
