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2. What is an Arduino? What is a microcontroller?

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Anthony Pesce edited this page Sep 24, 2015 · 14 revisions

An illustration of the Arduino R3, the microcontroller we'll be using in this lesson

A microcontroller is essentially a very small computer. It has a CPU and small amount of RAM, and different input and output pins you can use to connect to devices. They're all around you: from everyday household appliances like toasters, ovens and thermostats to providing functions in your automobiles, airplanes and medical devices.

Arduinos are prototyping boards that make it easy to experiment and connect with different inputs and outputs. Think of light, motion and audio sensors, servo motors, LED panels, and the ability to connect it all to the internet.

The robots we'll be creating in this lesson are just one of the many ways you can use the platform. While we're building these, think of how you could apply these tools in your own newsroom or organization.

Next up: Powering an LED

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