Arduino Without A Computer?

Projects General Guidance
1

Is there a way to make a product with Arduino where it doesn't have to be plugged into the computer? I have worked on few Arduino's but am thinking of making a project where I would be carrying it around and not by the computer. Of course it would have to be battery powered I know that. Thanks

2

Most Arduino applications are not intended to be connected to a computer, unless the computer is needed to process and store data.

For standalone applications you may need one or more buttons for user input and a display of some sort.

3

jremington:
Most Arduino applications are not intended to be connected to a computer, unless the computer is needed to process and store data.

For standalone applications you may need one or more buttons for user input and a display of some sort.

Thanks for responding. Good to hear. But how will the arduino know what program to run? Is there a way to put a program onto an Arduino?

Thanks, sorry I'm new to this.

4

You use the computer to program the Arduino, then disconnect the Arduino for its intended use. The program is permanently stored in the Arduino, and there can be only one program.

Alternatively, you can use another Arduino to program the first.

5

The arduino can store and run only one program at a time. You upload that program when the arduino is connected to the computer and the arduino stores the program in its internal flash memory. When disconnected from the computer and powered from batteries or other power source, the arduino runs the program stored in its flash memory.

6

jremington:
You use the computer to program the Arduino, then disconnect the Arduino for its intended use. The program is permanently stored in the Arduino, and there can be only one program.

Alternatively, you can use another Arduino to program the first.

PaulRB:
The arduino can store and run only one program at a time. You upload that program when the arduino is connected to the computer and the arduino stores the program in its internal flash memory. When disconnected from the computer and powered from batteries or other power source, the arduino runs the program stored in its flash memory.

Thank you very much. Answered my question perfectly. Both will be receiving karma.

7

jremington:
You use the computer to program the Arduino, then disconnect the Arduino for its intended use. The program is permanently stored in the Arduino, and there can be only one program.

Alternatively, you can use another Arduino to program the first.

Yes, that's correct but "one program" can do several different things. Assume You add a button that can make that "one program" switch between several internally different "programs", pieces of code.

8

Just for example - If you load the [u]Blink Example[/u] into your Arduino board, the code is loaded into flash (non-volatile memory) so if you disconnect it the program remains in memory and the LED will start blinking the next time the Arduino is powered-up.