1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for setting up and operating your diymore Pro Micro ATmega32U4 microcontroller. The Pro Micro is a compact, Arduino-compatible development board designed for various embedded projects, offering a small footprint and robust performance for hobbyists and professionals alike.
2. Features
- Microcontroller: ATmega32U4, operating at 5V/16MHz.
- IDE Support: Compatible with Arduino IDE v1.0.1 and newer versions.
- Digital I/O: 12 digital input/output pins, 5 of which are capable of Pulse Width Modulation (PWM).
- Serial Communication: Dedicated Rx and Tx hardware serial connections.
- Connectivity: On-board micro-USB connector for programming and serial communication.
3. Package Contents
The diymore Pro Micro package typically includes the following components:
- 1 x diymore Pro Micro ATmega32U4 Microcontroller Board
- 2 x 12-pin male header strips (for optional soldering)
Image: The diymore Pro Micro Microcontroller board shown alongside the two 12-pin header strips included in the package.
4. Board Overview and Pinout
The diymore Pro Micro features the ATmega32U4 microcontroller and a micro-USB connector for power and data. Understanding the pinout is crucial for proper use and integration into your projects.
Image: A detailed pinout diagram of the diymore Pro Micro board, illustrating the function of each pin, including digital I/O, analog inputs, power pins, and communication interfaces.
Key Components:
- ATmega32U4 Microcontroller: The central processing unit responsible for executing your code.
- Micro-USB Port: Provides power to the board, enables programming, and facilitates serial communication with a computer.
- Digital I/O Pins: Pins 0-12, used for general purpose digital input and output. Pins 3, 5, 6, 9, 10 support PWM.
- Analog Input Pins: Pins A0-A3, used for reading analog sensor data.
- Power Pins:
- RAW: Unregulated voltage input (6-16V DC).
- GND: Ground connection.
- VCC: Regulated 5V output.
- Reset Button: Used to restart the microcontroller or enter bootloader mode.
Image: A close-up view highlighting the Micro USB port and the ATmega32U4 microcontroller chip, which are central to the board's functionality.
5. Setup
5.1. Soldering Pin Headers
The Pro Micro typically comes with separate pin headers. These need to be soldered onto the board if you intend to use it with breadboards or custom PCBs.
- Align Headers: Carefully align the pin headers with the corresponding holes on the Pro Micro board.
- Secure Position: To ensure straight soldering, you can insert the headers into a breadboard first, then place the Pro Micro on top.
- Solder Pins: Using a soldering iron, carefully solder each pin to its pad on the Pro Micro board. Ensure each joint is solid and there are no solder bridges between adjacent pins.
Image: The diymore Pro Micro board shown with the included pin headers positioned, illustrating how they should be aligned before soldering.
5.2. Software Installation
To program the diymore Pro Micro, you will need the Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE).
- Download Arduino IDE: Download and install the latest version of the Arduino IDE from the official Arduino website.
- Install Board Support: Open the Arduino IDE. Go to
Tools > Board > Boards Manager.... In the Boards Manager, search for "SparkFun AVR Boards" and install the package. This package includes the necessary support for the Pro Micro. - Select Board: After installation, go to
Tools > Board > SparkFun AVR Boards > SparkFun Pro Micro. - Select Processor: Then, select the correct processor by navigating to
Tools > Processor > ATmega32U4 (5V, 16MHz). - Connect Board: Connect the Pro Micro to your computer using a micro-USB cable. The board should appear as a serial port under
Tools > Port. Select the appropriate port.
Important Note: The micro-USB connector on the Pro Micro is delicate. Exercise extreme caution when connecting and disconnecting the cable to prevent physical damage to the port.
Image: A visual warning illustrating the proper way to handle the micro-USB connector to avoid damage, emphasizing gentle handling.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1. Powering the Board
The Pro Micro can be powered through several methods:
- USB Power: Connect a micro-USB cable to a computer's USB port or a standard 5V USB power adapter.
- External Power (RAW Pin): Provide an unregulated DC voltage between 6V and 16V to the RAW pin. The on-board voltage regulator will convert this to a stable 5V for the microcontroller.
- External Power (VCC Pin): Provide a regulated 5V DC directly to the VCC pin. Ensure the voltage is precisely 5V to avoid damaging the board.
6.2. Uploading a Sketch
Once the Arduino IDE is set up and the board is connected, you can upload your programs (sketches):
- Open Sketch: Open an existing sketch or an example (e.g.,
File > Examples > 01.Basics > Blink). - Verify Settings: Double-check that the correct board and serial port are selected in the
Toolsmenu of the Arduino IDE. - Upload: Click the "Upload" button (typically a right-arrow icon) in the Arduino IDE. The software will compile your code and then attempt to upload it to the Pro Micro.
- Monitor Upload: The RX and TX LEDs on the board will flash rapidly during the upload process, indicating data transfer.
Bootloader Mode: If the board is not recognized or you encounter upload issues, quickly double-tap the reset button on the board. This will activate the bootloader for approximately 8 seconds, during which the L (LED) will pulse, allowing the IDE to detect and program the board.
7. Troubleshooting
- Board not recognized by computer:
- Ensure the micro-USB cable you are using is a data transfer cable, not just a power-only charging cable.
- Try connecting the Pro Micro to a different USB port on your computer or a different computer entirely.
- Quickly double-tap the reset button on the board to force it into bootloader mode, then try uploading or checking for the serial port again.
- Upload errors in Arduino IDE:
- Verify that the correct board (
SparkFun Pro Micro) and processor (ATmega32U4 (5V, 16MHz)) are selected under theToolsmenu. - Confirm that the correct serial port for the Pro Micro is selected.
- Ensure no other applications (like serial monitors or other IDEs) are currently using the selected serial port.
- Verify that the correct board (
- Fragile Micro-USB Port:
- As noted in the setup section, the micro-USB connector is prone to damage. Always handle it with extreme care, avoiding any excessive force or wiggling when plugging in or unplugging the cable.
- For permanent installations, consider using a strain relief mechanism for the USB cable or securing the board to prevent movement that could stress the port.
Image: The diymore Pro Micro board integrated into a breadboard setup, demonstrating a typical prototyping environment.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Microcontroller | ATmega32U4 |
| Operating Voltage | 5V |
| Input Voltage (RAW) | 6-16V DC |
| Clock Speed | 16 MHz |
| Digital I/O Pins | 12 (5 PWM capable) |
| Analog Input Pins | 4 (A0-A3) |
| Flash Memory | 32 KB (ATmega32U4) |
| SRAM | 2.5 KB |
| EEPROM | 1 KB |
| Dimensions (L x W) | Approximately 32.5 mm x 17.5 mm |
| Connectivity | Micro USB |
| Operating System Support | Windows, macOS, Linux |
Image: Technical drawing displaying the precise dimensions of the diymore Pro Micro board, including length and width measurements.
9. Maintenance
The diymore Pro Micro is designed for durability, but proper maintenance practices will ensure its long-term functionality:
- Cleanliness: Keep the board clean and free from dust, dirt, and conductive debris. Use compressed air or a soft brush for cleaning.
- Environmental Protection: Avoid exposing the board to moisture, high humidity, or extreme temperatures, which can damage electronic components.
- Power Handling: Always disconnect power from the board before making any wiring changes or modifications to prevent short circuits or component damage.
- USB Port Care: Continue to handle the micro-USB port with care to prevent physical damage, as it is a common point of failure.
10. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, technical assistance, or customer support regarding your diymore Pro Micro microcontroller, please refer to the official diymore website or contact their customer service directly.
diymore Customer Service: You can find more information and contact options by visiting the diymore Store on Amazon.
