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DIY Arduino Mega

The Arduino Mega is an open-source programmable microcontroller. It features more inputs and outputs than other Arduino microcontrollers, such as the Uno and Fio. At the time of publishing, two Arduino Mega boards are available: the Mega 2560 and Mega ADK. Both feature USB-to-serial communication, allowing the devices to easily transmit data to and from a computer. The Mega ADK, however, is also useful for developing accessories for mobile devices running the Android operating system from Google. The original Mega has been discontinued, but its details are still listed on the Arduino website.

Things You'll Need

Custom PCB
Solder
Electronic components
Soldering iron

Instructions

- 1
  Go to the "Arduino Hardware" website. Click on the Arduino Mega you want to build.
- 2
  Download the "Eagle Files." Unzip the downloaded file. Send the BRD file to a PCB manufacturer.
- 3
  Download the schematic. It is a PDF file.
- 4
  Create a list of parts by looking at the schematic and PCB layout. If you cannot open BRD files, wait for the PCB manufacturer to send the custom PCB to you. Double-check your list against images of the board and the parts listed in the product's description. You will most likely have to order parts from more than one store.
- 5
  Solder the electronic components to the board with a soldering iron according to the PCB layout. Check your work by comparing it to the schematic and images of the board. Solder heat-sensitive components, such as diodes and chips, quickly to avoid damaging them.

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