What is an IDE?
IDE is a software that integrates a bunch of tools
- A text editor, using which the programmer can enter the C++ program.
- A compiler, which translates the C++ program into an executable file. The executable file contains a machine language program (binary) composed of a sequence of 1's and 0's. These 1's and 0's form the instructions which the Arduino board should execute.
- A programmer, which uploads the machine language program to the Arduino board.
Downloading and Installing the IDE
- Download from https://www.arduino.cc/en/Main/Software (download the .exe version for Windows)
- Online version available (but the local version is recommended).
- Installation is straight forward.
- Remember to allow the installation of the driver for WIndows.
IDE Look and Feel
Settings: Serial Port
- Your computer communicates to the Arduino via a serial port through a USB-Serial adapter.
- Check to make sure that the drivers are properly installed.
- Usually, Arduino Uno will appear next to the correct COM port.
- The COM port could be different when you plug Arduino into a different USB port, or when you plug in a different Arduino board.
- If you are unsure, go to device manager (in Windows, Run > type devmgmt.msc and press enter). You can then unplug the Arduino board and see which COM port disappears under the 'Ports' category.
Settings: Board
- Next, double-check that the proper board (Arduino Uno unless you are selecting another board) is selected under the Tools-->Board menu
Screencast