Programming Arduino with Python opens up a world of possibilities for those passionate about electronics and software development. Integrating these two tools allows you to combine the versatility of Arduino as a microcontroller with the power and simplicity of Python to create innovative projects. In this article, you will learn how to connect both worlds and delve into the essential steps to start developing your own applications using these technologies.
Arduino, a platform of hardware libre, is known for its ease of use and adaptability, while Python, a high-level programming language, stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness. Although Arduino is usually programmed in its own language based on C++, it is possible to communicate with it using Python thanks to libraries such as PySerial, which enable communication via the serial port. Here we will explore in depth how to perform this integration from basic principles to more advanced practical examples.
Requirements to start
Before you start programming Arduino with Python, it is essential to make sure you have the necessary tools and settings:
- An Arduino board: Models like the Arduino UNO, Nano or Mega are perfect for this type of projects.
- USB Cable: Necessary to connect the Arduino board to the computer.
- Python installed: You can download the latest version of Python from its official website.
- Install the PySerial library: This library is crucial to establish communication between Arduino and Python. It is installed by running the command
pip install pyserial.
Basic configuration in Arduino
The first step to connect Arduino with Python is to configure the sketch Arduino. This code, written in the Arduino IDE, will allow the board to receive and process data sent to it by Python. For example, the following program turns on and off an LED on pin 13 based on the data received:
void setup() { Serial.begin(9600); pinMode(13, OUTPUT); } void loop() { if (Serial.available() > 0) { char data = Serial.read(); if (data == '1') { digitalWrite(13, HIGH); } else if (data == '0') { digitalWrite(13, LOW); } } }
This code establishes a communication through the serial port at 9600 baud and waits to receive the characters '1' o '0' to turn the built-in LED on or off.
Connection with Python
Once the Arduino is set up, it's time to write a Python program that establishes the connection to the board and sends commands. Here's a simple example using the library PySerial:
import serial import time # Serial port configuration arduino = serial.Serial('COM3', 9600) time.sleep(2) # Wait for the connection to stabilize # Send commands arduino.write(b'1') print("LED on") time.sleep(2) arduino.write(b'0') print("LED off") arduino.close()
This script opens the serial port, sends the command '1' To turn on the LED, wait two seconds and then send '0' to turn it off. Remember to set the COM port according to the operating system and the connection of your motherboard.
Serial Port Identification
In order for Arduino and Python to communicate properly, it is crucial to identify the serial port where the Arduino is connected. Windows, you can check it from the Device Manager. In systems Linux o MacOS, use the command ls /dev/ in the terminal to find something similar to / dev / ttyUSB0.
Advanced example: Sensor reading
Another practical use of communication between Arduino and Python is reading data from sensors connected to Arduino and displaying it in real time in Python. For example, for a temperature sensor:
Code in Arduino:
int sensorPin = A0; void setup() { Serial.begin(9600); } void loop() { int sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin); Serial.println(sensorValue); delay(1000); }
Python code:
import serial import time arduino = serial.Serial('COM3', 9600) time.sleep(2) while True: sensor_data = arduino.readline().decode('utf-8').strip() print(f"Value sensor: {sensor_data}")
This example receives sensor values in Arduino and prints them to the Python console, allowing monitoring of data in real time.
Expanding possibilities with artificial vision
If you want to take your project to the next level, you can integrate Python and Arduino for programming tasks. artificial vision using OpenCV. For example, a system that detects whether someone is wearing a mask and turns on colored LED lights based on the result:
- Un Blue LED indicates that the person is wearing a mask.
- Un Red led turns on if no mask is detected.
Using Mediapipe and OpenCV, you could train a model for face detection and send the results to Arduino to drive the LEDs accordingly.
The union of Arduino and Python unlocks endless possibilities for creative and educational projects. From simple tasks, such as controlling LEDs, to advanced applications with sensors and computer vision, these tools offer a perfect combination to maximize your learning in electronics and programming.