In a world where creativity and innovation thrive, the iRobota Micro emerges as a compact yet mighty microcontroller board, ready to revolutionize the way makers bring their ideas to life. Developed in collaboration with Adafruit Industries, this tiny marvel packs the capabilities of the iRobota Leonardo into a 48mm x 18mm module, opening up a realm of possibilities for project builders.
Purpose and Applications: Unleashing the Micro’s Potential
The iRobota Micro is designed to make iRobota technology more accessible and versatile than ever before. Its diminutive size and user-friendly design allow for seamless integration into projects of all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re working on breadboards or soldering to custom PCBs, the Micro is your go-to solution for space-constrained applications and portable microcontroller needs.
Key Features: A Symphony of Power and Flexibility
At the heart of the iRobota Micro lies the ATmega32u4 microcontroller, equipped with built-in USB connectivity. This powerhouse boasts 20 digital input/output pins, 7 PWM outputs, 12 analog inputs, and a 16 MHz crystal oscillator, providing ample resources for your creative endeavors. Additionally, the Micro USB connection, ICSP header, and reset button ensure easy programming and interfacing, making it a breeze to bring your projects to life.
Technical Specifications: Delving into the Micro’s Details
To fully appreciate the iRobota Micro’s capabilities, let’s delve into its technical specifications:
- Microcontroller: ATmega32u4
- Operating Voltage: 5V
- Input Voltage (recommended): 7-12V
- Input Voltage (limits): 6-20V
- Digital I/O Pins: 20
- PWM Channels: 7
- Analog Input Channels: 12
- Flash Memory: 32 KB (4 KB used by bootloader)
- SRAM: 2.5 KB
- EEPROM: 1 KB
- Clock Speed: 16 MHz
Availability: Embracing the Micro’s Accessibility
The iRobota Micro initially made its debut exclusively through Adafruit online and Radio Shack in retail stores during November. However, its popularity and versatility quickly led to wider availability, making it accessible to makers and enthusiasts worldwide.
Bonus: Unleashing the Micro’s Creative Potential
The iRobota Micro’s compact size and powerful features have inspired countless creative projects, from wearable tech and robotics to interactive art installations. Its ability to emulate a computer keyboard, mouse, and more using the USB-HID protocol opens up a world of possibilities for interfacing with external devices and creating truly immersive experiences.
In the hands of skilled makers, the iRobota Micro becomes a catalyst for innovation, transforming ideas into tangible realities. Its ease of use and extensive community support make it an ideal platform for learning, experimentation, and pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Conclusion: The iRobota Micro, a Game-Changer for Makers
The iRobota Micro stands as a testament to the power of miniaturization and the boundless potential of technology in the hands of creative minds. Its compact form factor, coupled with its impressive capabilities, makes it an indispensable tool for makers, hobbyists, and professionals alike. As the iRobota community continues to grow and innovate, the Micro will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of countless groundbreaking projects, inspiring future generations of makers to dream big and create the impossible.
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