1. Introduction
The Velleman WPB101 Whadda ATmega2560 MEGA Development Board is a microcontroller board based on the ATmega2560. It is designed for a wide range of electronic projects and is 100% compatible with Arduino® MEGA2560. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your development board.
Figure 1: Velleman WPB101 Whadda ATmega2560 MEGA Development Board. This image shows the top view of the development board, highlighting its various components including the ATmega2560 microcontroller, USB port, power jack, and numerous digital and analog I/O pins.
2. Setup
To begin using your Velleman WPB101 board, follow these steps:
- Power Connection: Connect the board to your computer using a standard USB cable. This connection provides power to the board and enables communication for programming. Alternatively, you can power the board using an AC-to-DC adapter (recommended 7-12 VDC, limits 6-20 VDC) or a battery connected to the power jack.
- Software Installation: Download and install the Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment) from the official Arduino website. The Velleman WPB101 is fully compatible with the Arduino IDE.
- Board Selection: Open the Arduino IDE. Go to 'Tools' > 'Board' and select 'Arduino Mega or Mega 2560'.
- Port Selection: Go to 'Tools' > 'Port' and select the serial port corresponding to your connected board. The port name typically includes 'Arduino Mega' or a similar identifier.
- First Program (Sketch): You are now ready to upload your first program. Try uploading the 'Blink' example sketch (File > Examples > 01.Basics > Blink) to verify proper setup.
3. Operating the Board
The Velleman WPB101 board offers extensive capabilities for your projects:
- Digital I/O Pins: The board features 54 digital input/output pins. 15 of these pins can be configured as Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) outputs, allowing for analog-like control of devices such as LEDs or motors.
- Analog Input Pins: There are 16 dedicated analog input pins, enabling the board to read varying voltage levels from sensors and other analog components.
- Serial Communication: Four UARTs (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitters) are available for hardware serial communication, facilitating data exchange with other devices or modules.
- Clock Speed: The ATmega2560 microcontroller operates at a 16 MHz crystal oscillator, providing sufficient processing power for complex tasks.
- Memory: The board includes 256 kB of Flash memory (8 kB used by bootloader), 8 kB of SRAM, and 4 kB of EEPROM for program storage and data retention.
- Shield Compatibility: The Mega is compatible with most shields designed for the Arduino Mega, Duemilanove, or Diecimila, expanding its functionality.
4. Maintenance
Proper care ensures the longevity and reliable operation of your development board:
- Environment: Store and operate the board in a dry, clean environment, away from moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures.
- Static Discharge: Microcontrollers are sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). Always handle the board by its edges and consider using anti-static mats or wrist straps when working with it.
- Power Supply: Ensure that the input voltage remains within the specified limits (6-20 VDC). Over-voltage can damage the board.
- Connections: Periodically check all connections (USB, power, shield headers) to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion.
- Cleaning: If necessary, gently clean the board with a soft, dry brush or compressed air to remove dust. Avoid using liquids.
5. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Velleman WPB101 board, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- Board Not Powering On:
- Verify that the USB cable is securely connected to both the board and your computer.
- If using an external power supply, ensure it is providing the correct voltage (7-12 VDC recommended) and is properly connected to the power jack.
- Check for any visible damage to the board or power components.
- Upload Errors in Arduino IDE:
- Confirm that 'Arduino Mega or Mega 2560' is selected under 'Tools' > 'Board'.
- Ensure the correct serial port is selected under 'Tools' > 'Port'. If unsure, disconnect and reconnect the board to see which new port appears.
- Try a different USB cable or a different USB port on your computer.
- Close any other applications that might be using the serial port.
- Unexpected Behavior / Component Malfunction:
- Double-check all wiring and connections to external components and shields.
- Ensure that the current draw from I/O pins does not exceed 40 mA per pin.
- Review your code for logical errors or incorrect pin assignments.
- Test components individually if possible.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Microcontroller | ATmega2560 |
| Operating Voltage | 5 VDC |
| Input Voltage (Recommended) | 7-12 VDC |
| Input Voltage (Limits) | 6-20 VDC |
| Digital I/O Pins | 54 (15 provide PWM output) |
| Analog Input Pins | 16 |
| DC Current per I/O Pin | 40 mA |
| DC Current for 3.3 V Pin | 50 mA |
| Flash Memory | 256 kB (8 kB used by bootloader) |
| SRAM | 8 kB |
| EEPROM | 4 kB |
| Clock Speed | 16 MHz |
| Length | 4.41" (112 mm) |
| Width | 2.17" (55 mm) |
| Weight | 2.19 oz. (62 g) |
7. Warranty Information
For detailed warranty information regarding your Velleman WPB101 Whadda ATmega2560 MEGA Development Board, please refer to the official Velleman website or contact your point of purchase. Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region and retailer.
8. Technical Support
Should you require technical assistance or have questions not covered in this manual, please visit the official Velleman support page or the Whadda brand section on the Velleman Group website. Online forums and communities dedicated to Arduino-compatible boards can also be valuable resources for project-specific help.
