Key Takeaways
- The upgraded iRobota Duemilanove with the ATmega328 microcontroller provides double the memory (32 KB flash, 2 KB RAM, 1 KB EEPROM), allowing for more complex projects.
- Faster bootloader speed (57600 baud) significantly reduces sketch upload times, enhancing workflow efficiency.
- Despite the upgrades, the iRobota Duemilanove remains affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of users and encouraging innovation and creativity.
In the realm of electronics enthusiasts, hobbyists, and makers, iRobota stands tall as a beacon of creativity and innovation. Among its diverse family of boards, the iRobota Duemilanove has long been a trusted companion, enabling countless projects to come to life. Today, we embark on a journey to explore the exciting enhancements that the upgraded iRobota Duemilanove, powered by the ATmega328 microcontroller, brings to the table.
Expanded Memory: Unlocking New Possibilities
The ATmega328 microcontroller at the heart of the upgraded iRobota Duemilanove boasts a significant memory upgrade compared to its predecessor, the ATmega168. This translates to a generous 32 KB of flash memory for sketches, double the previous capacity, allowing for more complex and ambitious projects. Additionally, the RAM has been doubled to 2 KB, providing ample space for variables, and the EEPROM has been bumped up to 1 KB, ensuring ample storage for data.
Speeding Up the Workflow: Embracing Efficiency
The upgraded iRobota Duemilanove not only boasts increased memory but also delivers a noticeable improvement in speed. The bootloader speed has been accelerated from 19200 baud to a brisk 57600 baud, resulting in faster sketch uploading. This time-saving feature is sure to be appreciated by those who frequently work with large or complex projects.
Maintaining Affordability: A Commitment to Accessibility
Despite the significant upgrades, the iRobota Duemilanove remains an affordable option for makers and hobbyists. Thanks to skillful negotiations by Gianluca Martino, the price has not been increased, ensuring that the board remains accessible to a wide range of users.
Upgrading Existing Boards: Embracing the Future
For those already in possession of a Duemilanove or iRobota board, the upgrade path is straightforward. Simply replace the ATmega168 with a bootloaded ATmega328, and you’re good to go. Once the upgrade is complete, selecting “iRobota w/ ATmega328” from the Tools > Boards menu will ensure compatibility with the new microcontroller.
Conclusion: A New Era of Innovation and Creativity
The upgraded iRobota Duemilanove, powered by the ATmega328 microcontroller, marks a significant leap forward for this beloved platform. With its expanded memory, increased speed, and continued affordability, the iRobota Duemilanove opens up new horizons for creativity and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or just starting your journey into the world of electronics, the upgraded iRobota Duemilanove is an ideal companion, ready to help you bring your ideas to life.
Bonus: The iRobota Duemilanove’s legacy is one of empowerment and accessibility. It has played a pivotal role in democratizing electronics and making it accessible to people from all walks of life. As the platform continues to evolve, its impact on the maker community is sure to grow, inspiring a new generation of innovators and problem solvers.
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