The Arduino Uno R3 is the perfect microcontroller board for beginners diving into electronics and coding. It’s versatile, easy to program, and backed by a vast online community.

If you’re new to Arduino and not sure where to start, this guide will walk you through building your very first project: a simple LED blink circuit.

What You’ll Need

• Arduino Uno R3 board
• USB cable (to connect Arduino to your computer)
• Breadboard
• LED (5mm Red)
• 220Ω resistor
• Jumper wires
• Arduino IDE (software)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Install the Arduino IDE

Download and install the Arduino IDE from arduino.cc. This software allows you to write code and upload it to your Arduino board.

Step 2: Connect Your Arduino Uno

Plug your Arduino Uno into your computer using the USB cable. The power LED on the board should light up.

Step 3: Set Up Your Circuit

On your breadboard:

• Connect the anode (longer leg) of the LED to pin 13 on the Arduino through a 220Ω resistor.
• Connect the cathode (shorter leg) of the LED to the GND pin on the Arduino.

Step 4: Write the Code

Open the Arduino IDE and enter the following code:

void setup() {
pinMode(13, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
digitalWrite(13, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second
digitalWrite(13, LOW); // Turn the LED off
delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second
}

Step 5: Upload and Run

Click the Upload button in the Arduino IDE. Once the code uploads, you’ll see the LED blink on and off every second.

Why This Project Matters

This simple LED blink project introduces core concepts like digital output, delays, and basic circuit wiring. It’s also the foundation for more advanced projects.

What’s Next?

Now that you’ve completed your first project, try adding a push button to control the LED, or connect more LEDs to create patterns. The possibilities are endless.

Check out more components and kits at Rdxlectronics.com to keep building and exploring the world of electronics!