Nano 3.0 ATmega328P Mini-USB Board – Support Documentation
The Nano 3.0 ATmega328P Mini-USB Board is a compact, breadboard-friendly microcontroller development board based on the ATmega328P. Designed to be compatible with the Arduino IDE, it provides the same functionality as larger boards like the Uno, but in a much smaller form factor. It features a Mini-B USB connector and typically uses the CH340 USB-to-serial interface chip for programming and communication.
Key Features
- Microcontroller: ATmega328P
- Operating Voltage: 5V
- Input Voltage (recommended): 7–12V
- Input Voltage (limits): 6–20V
- Digital I/O Pins: 14 (6 provide PWM output)
- Analog Input Pins: 8
- DC Current per I/O Pin: 40 mA
- Flash Memory: 32 KB (2 KB used by bootloader)
- SRAM: 2 KB
- EEPROM: 1 KB
- Clock Speed: 16 MHz
- USB Interface: Mini-B USB (via CH340)
- Dimensions: 45 mm x 18 mm
Pinout Description
| Pin | Function | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D0 (RX) | Digital I/O | Serial receive |
| D1 (TX) | Digital I/O | Serial transmit |
| D2–D13 | Digital I/O | General purpose digital pins |
| D3, D5, D6, D9, D10, D11 | PWM | Pulse-width modulation outputs |
| A0–A7 | Analog In | Analog inputs (also usable as digital I/O) |
| VIN | Power Input | 6–20V unregulated input for onboard regulator |
| 5V | Power Output | Regulated 5V output from onboard regulator |
| 3.3V | Power Output | 3.3V supply (50 mA max) |
| GND | Ground | Ground reference |
| RST | Reset | Manual reset pin (active low) |
| AREF | Analog Reference | Reference voltage for analog inputs |
Powering the Board
The Nano 3.0 board can be powered through:
- Mini-USB: Connect to PC or USB power adapter
- VIN Pin: Apply 6–20V for onboard regulation
- 5V Pin: Apply regulated 5V directly if bypassing onboard regulator
Programming the Board
- Install the latest CH340 driver if required for your system.
- Connect the board using a Mini-B USB cable.
- Open the Arduino IDE and select:
- Board: “Arduino Nano”
- Processor: “ATmega328P” or “ATmega328P (Old Bootloader)”
- Port: COM port corresponding to the board
- Write and upload your code using the IDE’s upload function.
Common Applications
- Compact embedded projects
- DIY automation systems
- Portable electronics
- Robotics and mechatronics
- Educational electronics
Troubleshooting
- Upload Fails: Try selecting the “Old Bootloader” option in the Arduino IDE.
- Unrecognised USB: Ensure CH340 driver is installed. Use a quality Mini-USB cable.
- No Power: Verify your power source and check for correct polarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this board support 3.3V logic?
No, it operates at 5V logic. Use level shifters when interfacing with 3.3V components.
Is this board compatible with Arduino libraries?
Yes, it is fully compatible with the Arduino IDE and all standard libraries for ATmega328P.
Can I power peripherals through the 5V pin?
Yes, but ensure total current draw does not exceed regulator limits (typically around 500 mA via USB).
Conclusion
The Nano 3.0 ATmega328P Mini-USB Board is a robust and compact solution for developing microcontroller projects using the Arduino IDE. Its small footprint, full IDE compatibility, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for embedded system development and educational applications.