1.1.3 Uses of the Arduino MEGA 2560

the Arduino Uno has a total of 32 socket connection points or “pins”, while the Arduino MEGA 2560 has a total of 86. These totals exclude the 6-pin ICSP header.

The other major differences between the Uno and MEGA are the main microcontroller part numbers. Chapter 2 compares the microcontroller found on Arduino MEGA 2560 boards with the microcontroller found on Arduino Uno boards. For those readers wanting to know more about the hardware of the Arduino Uno, refer to the Arduino Uno Hardware Manual, ISBN: 978-3-89576-434-9 (print), 978-3-89576-435-6 (e-book), by the same author.

Figure 1.3: Arduino Uno Outline Overlaid on an Arduino MEGA 2560

1.1.3 Uses of the Arduino MEGA 2560

Arduino is based on the open-source Wiring project (wiring.org.co) which was originally intended for art and design students who wanted to use electronics in their projects. Originally the Wiring board and the first Arduino (before the Arduino MEGA 2560) were used in education for student projects. Arduino has become popular beyond its original design purpose and is now used by everyone from hobbyists, makers, hackers and educators, to engineers and other professionals.

Some examples of Arduino projects are 3D printer controllers, solar trackers for solar panel control, robots (many different kinds, including drawing robots and plotters), various light displays, clocks, electronic games, weather stations, vending machines and many more. A good place to look for Arduino projects, other than doing an internet search, is at