FAQ

LEDs

• How many LEDs can I connect directly to the microcontroller output pins?
• How do I use a JFET to regulate LED current?

Tools and Supplies

• What tools and supplies do you recommend?
• What should I look for when purchasing a used oscilloscope?

Software

• What changes are required to use the Arduino bootloader on wiblocks boards?
• How do I add wiblocks boards to the Arduino boards menu?
• How do I reset an ATmega168/328 in software?
• When I try to upload using arduino 0018 I keep getting an error message stk500_getsync(): not in sync: resp=0x00
• How do I use NewSoftSerial with wiblocks boards?

Hardware

• How do I calculate the safe operating temperature of a MOSFET or BJT?
• Do I need a heatsink on my linear regulator?
• Can I switch the ADC between an external reference and an internal reference?
• How much current can you source/sink from the ATmega328P pins?
• How much current does my ZB1/NB1x/NB2x draw?
• What is a watchdog?
• What hardware do you use to program bootloaders?

Design and Manufacturing

• Do you have any tips on reading electronic component datasheets?
• What EDA tools do you use?
• Where do you have your PCBs manufactured?

Components

• What parts would you recommend stocking?
• Is there a cross reference for SMD component markings?

Books

• What EE books do you recommend?