Welcome to the Netram FAQ for getting started with Arduino and common discussion topics. Click on the links below to view the answer.

Arduino & Open Hardware

What is this whole Arduino and open source hardware craze about?

Where can I download the Arduino or Netduino development environments?

What is a sketch, that Arduino refers to?

The Arduino board is not showing up in my system. What should I do?

I was happily uploading code and using the serial monitor and now I'm getting COM port errors?

What is a shield and how do I use it? And can I use the same shields on Arduino and Netduino?

What's the easiest way to log sensor data using the Arduino?

General

I'm new to electronics, is there a kit that will get me going quickly?

Which development board should I start with?

I want to build a robot. Where's a good place to start?

Which books do you recommend?

How do I send data back and forth between my development board and my PC?

I have seen the term, I2C protocol. What does this mean and what are other common protocols?

Components & Modules

What is an FTDI cable or breakout board?

Which is the best sensor to do distance monitoring?

I want to experiment with an accelerometer or gryo. Which one should I start with?

I want to add a display to my project. Which would be the best and easiest to integrate?

I've read that to use stepper motors or DC motors I need to use a driver. Which one should I choose?

What is the difference between a motor and a servo, and when would I use either?

Projects

What do I need to setup a wireless network with either RF, WiFi or GSM?

What do I need to make a GPS tracker?

What do I need to setup an access control system?

I want to start automating my house. Where would be a good place to start?

Multirotors & RC

What components do I need to build my own quadcopter?