LilyPad ATmega328P 16MHz Arduino-Compatible Wearable Development Board – Support Documentation
The LilyPad 328 is a circular, lightweight microcontroller board designed specifically for wearable and e-textile projects. Powered by the ATmega328P microcontroller, it operates at 16 MHz and is fully compatible with the Arduino IDE, making it an excellent choice for integrating electronics into clothing and fabric-based creations.
Key Features
- Microcontroller: ATmega328P
- Operating Voltage: 2.7V – 5.5V
- Clock Speed: 16 MHz
- Digital I/O Pins: 14 (6 PWM outputs)
- Analog Input Pins: 6
- Flash Memory: 32 KB (0.5 KB used by bootloader)
- SRAM: 2 KB
- EEPROM: 1 KB
- Dimensions: 50mm diameter, 0.8mm thickness
- Weight: Approximately 8g
Pinout Description
The LilyPad 328 features large sewable pads around its perimeter, allowing for easy integration into fabrics using conductive thread. Below is a general description of the pin functions:
| Pad Label | Function | Description |
|---|---|---|
| A0 – A5 | Analog Inputs | Analog input pins for reading sensor data |
| D0 – D13 | Digital I/O | Digital input/output pins; D3, D5, D6, D9, D10, and D11 support PWM |
| + | VCC | Positive voltage supply (2.7V – 5.5V) |
| – | GND | Ground connection |
| RST | Reset | Resets the microcontroller |
Getting Started
- Install Arduino IDE: Download and install the latest version of the Arduino IDE from the official website.
- Connect FTDI Programmer: Use an FTDI breakout board or cable to connect the LilyPad 328 to your computer via the 6-pin programming header.
- Select Board and Port: In the Arduino IDE, go to Tools > Board and select “Arduino Uno” or “LilyPad Arduino”. Then, under Tools > Port, select the appropriate COM port.
- Upload Sketch: Write your Arduino sketch and click the upload button to program the LilyPad 328.
Applications
- Wearable electronics and smart clothing
- Interactive fashion and art installations
- Educational projects in electronics and programming
- Prototyping for e-textile products
Troubleshooting
- Board Not Recognized: Ensure the FTDI drivers are correctly installed and the board is properly connected.
- Upload Fails: Check that the correct board and port are selected in the Arduino IDE. Also, verify the FTDI connection.
- Unresponsive Board: Press the reset button and try uploading the sketch again. If issues persist, consider re-burning the bootloader.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Can I wash garments with the LilyPad 328 sewn in?
- A: It’s recommended to remove the LilyPad 328 before washing. If that’s not possible, hand wash with care and ensure the board is completely dry before powering it again.
- Q: How do I power the LilyPad 328?
- A: You can power it using a 3.7V LiPo battery connected to the + and – pads, or through the FTDI programmer when connected to a computer.
- Q: Is the LilyPad 328 compatible with all Arduino libraries?
- A: Most Arduino libraries compatible with the ATmega328P will work. However, some libraries may require modifications due to hardware differences.
Note: Always ensure proper insulation of conductive threads to prevent short circuits in your wearable projects.