[XCSSA] Links from Monday's XCSSA Arduino/AVR Microcontroller Programming Meeting

[X-otic Computer Systems of San Antonio]

Hey all,

We said that we were going to send out all the supporting links discussed at 
the meeting.  So here they are -- the links that Scott and Jenifer pulled 
together on and around the subject of the Arduino and ATmel AVR family of 
microcontrollers and having fun with them.


Arduino ATmel "Dev Module" and Related Links:
----------------------------------------------

Scott's (main) Arduino Link:
	http://arduino.cc/
This is the "AVR module" that lets you use the multi-platform IDE/compiler 
based on the Wiring/C-ish programming language.  The Arduino's great  for the 
uninitiated or person new to microcontroller programming.  Anyone can get 
started with just a $35 AVR module.  Perfect for the geek wanting to add and 
LCD to their car dash, or start tinkering with robotics.

Nano Arduino
 	http://store.gravitech.us/arduino-nano1.html
I tiny 1"x2" version of the Arduino that packs all the punch of the larger 
Arduino, but in a package a third the size!  Very cool. :)

Arduino	Shields: 
	http://www.adafruit.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=17_21 
	http://www.ladyada.net/make/boarduino/
This is what I like about the Arduino... are all the cool 
pre-engineered "Shields" or IO boards that you can get and just plug into 
them!  Want your project to have Ethernet or be on line?  Want wifi,  
Bluetooth or ZigBee wireless?  Robotic motor control?  Just plug in a 
different shield.  Very cool little modular system they have going on here.


General Microcontroller Links (more than just Arduino):
--------------------------------------------------------
Sparkfun (all things microcontrollers)
	 http://www.sparkfun.com
Tons of fun parts, modules, PIC, microcontrollers (ARM modules), wireless 
interfaces, "conductive thread", robotics, sensors and more! (hide your CC :)

Jennifer's Raw AVR Programmer:
	 http://www.fischl.de/usbasp/
This is a more low level (hard core) way of doing AVR programming, utilizing 
real C dev tools like avr-gcc and the libraries that, when loaded, give you a 
bit more low level control (no pun intended) over the AVR microcontroller 
than people using the Arduino tend to seek.  If you prefere low level bit 
banging or are looking into developing a commercial product around a raw 
ATmel AVR u-controller, then this is probably the way to go for you.

Great AVR Hacker Forums:
	http://www.avrfreaks.net/
Tons of free/open software, articles, projects to download and more.  It's a 
blast just looking over what all is available here!


I for one am going to start getting into either Arduino or raw AVR hacking for 
some of the things that I want to do for the high powered rocket that I am 
building.  Fun fun!

Gotta get some sleep..

Tweeks