Hello!
i'm having trouble with my arduino uno, i have used it for month and one day it stopped connecting to the computer. The "on", "tx" and "L" led lights up and allt the ports have power but i don't get any windows pup upp sound and i cant see it in the computer management.
I also tried it on my mac that i have tried it on before and it worked without a problem then but not now. so now the quistion is are the board dead?
well if the board is dead the i can use it like a 5v "powersupply" X)
Sounds like the USB interface chip has died.
Try a more module approach - Promini and USB/Serial adapter such as
or
http://www.tinyosshop.com/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=600&filter_name=ftdi%20basic
The FTDI seems a sturdier part than the Atmega16U2 that is used on the Uno.
You can also use the FTDI Basic with your board.
If you find comm's aren't working, then there are ways to disconnect the USB chip.
Or, use the board as a low current power supply. But why? A regulated 5V power supply is inexpensive.
For example:
http://www.mpja.com/5-Volt-DC-Plug-Power-Supply-4A-Regulated/productinfo/18520+PS/
(I disagree with the 2nd comment, I have not seen it not regulating under higher loads)
Check for "5.5/2.1mm ID Right Angle coaxial plug Center +" on the connector.
I use these, but from a different source, for many projects
[url=http://[/url]5.5mm - 2.1mm Coax Power Jack - Panel Mount][/color]5.5mm - 2.1mm Coax Power Jack - Panel Mount