The Arduino UNO R4 Minima is the latest iteration in the Arduino UNO line, designed to enhance the capabilities of the classic Arduino UNO while maintaining its simplicity and user-friendliness:
- Processor: It features a 32-bit Renesas RA4M1 microcontroller with an Arm® Cortex®-M4 core, offering a significant performance boost over its predecessors. This processor operates at 48 MHz, providing more processing power for complex projects.
- Memory: The UNO R4 Minima has 256 KB of Flash memory (which is more than double the previous models), 32 KB of SRAM, and 8 KB of EEPROM, allowing for larger and more complex programs.
- Connectivity: It maintains the standard Arduino UNO form factor, so it’s compatible with existing shields. However, it also introduces a new feature:
- USB-C Port: This replaces the micro-USB port found in previous models, making it more contemporary in terms of connectivity. The USB-C port can also be used for programming and power.
- Additional Features:
- Improved Power Management: The board can operate at 5V or 3.3V, and it has a better power management system, reducing the need for external voltage regulators in many applications.
- Enhanced ADC: The analog-to-digital converter (ADC) has a resolution of 12 bits, compared to the 10 bits of older UNO models, providing more precise analog readings.
- CAN Bus: It includes a CAN (Controller Area Network) bus interface, opening up new possibilities for automotive and industrial applications.
- HID Support: The UNO R4 Minima supports Human Interface Device (HID) functionality, allowing it to emulate a keyboard or mouse.
- Programming: It’s fully compatible with the Arduino IDE, so users can continue to use the same development environment they’re familiar with, although it also supports more advanced features due to the new hardware capabilities.
- LED Indicators: There’s an additional LED for power indication, making it easier to see if the board is powered on or off.
The Arduino UNO R4 Minima represents a blend of tradition and innovation, preserving the accessibility and ease of use that Arduino is known for, while introducing modern hardware features that cater to both beginners and advanced users. It’s designed to be a stepping stone for projects that require more processing power or specific features like CAN bus communication, without sacrificing the simplicity of the Arduino ecosystem.
Here’s what the UNO R4 Minima brings to the table:
- Hardware compatibility with UNO form factor: The UNO R4 Minima maintains the same form factor, pinout, and 5 V operating voltage as its predecessor, the UNO R3. This ensures a seamless transition for existing shields and projects, leveraging the extensive and unique ecosystem already established for the Arduino UNO.
- Expanded memory and faster clock: Prepare for more precise calculations and the ability to handle complex projects with ease. The UNO R4 Minima boasts increased memory and a faster clock speed, empowering you to tackle demanding tasks effortlessly.
- Extra on-board peripherals: The UNO R4 Minima introduces a range of on-board peripherals, including a 12-bit DAC, CAN BUS, and OP AMP. These additional components provide you with expanded capabilities and flexibility in your designs.
- Extended 24 V tolerance: The UNO R4 Minima now supports a wider input voltage range, allowing power supplies up to 24 V. This enables seamless integration with motors, LED strips, and other actuators, simplifying your projects by utilizing a single power source.
- SWD connector: Debugging is a critical aspect of any project. Simply connect an external debugger to the UNO R4 Minima and effortlessly monitor the inner workings of your system. Stay in control and gain valuable insights.
- HID support: The UNO R4 Minima comes with built-in HID (Human Interface Device) support, enabling it to simulate a mouse or keyboard when connected to a computer via a USB cable. This convenient feature makes it a breeze to send keystrokes and mouse movements to a computer, enhancing usability and functionality.
Get ready to unlock a world of possibilities with the Arduino UNO R4 Minima. Its exceptional features and enhanced capabilities make it the perfect companion for your innovative ventures.