Making arduino connections permanent

[fatmark]

Hello!!!

I'm so so so sorry, I'm sure this question has probably been asked and answered numerous times, I've searched the forum but can seem to find an answer.

I have an arduino uno board. It looks like this.

I'm ready to put my project into a case and I want to make the connections permanent (I'm currently using dupont cables but I want something more permanent).

Here's my questions.

1. Is it ever a good idea to solder to the bottom of the arduino? Am I smoking crack?
2. Was considering using hot glue to attach the dupont cables. Is this asking for trouble?
3. Thought about also using hot glue and header pins (hot glue the header pins into the header socket and then soldering onto the header pin).

I have the horrible feeling I'm being incredibly stupid. I'm a total noob, apologies in advance for idiocy!
Thanks so so much
Mark

[b707]

I think for Uno the best solution is making something like self-made shield

or buy pcb like that

[LarryD]

Don't use the UNO in your final project.

Use a NANO or an Arduino Pro Mini.

The Arduino Pro Mini (comes in 5V or 3V3 version) requires an FTDI for programming.

NANO ~ $10.00

Arduino Pro Mini ~ $6.00

[b707]

I agree, the Nano more suited for projects. I use Uno for short-time tests only.

[Grumpy_Mike]

Here is my tutorial about making an Arduino shield.
http://www.thebox.myzen.co.uk/Hardware/Arduino_Shield.html

[fatmark]

What do you do if you have a component that requires 5volts?
Again sorry for the idiot questions, I'm brand brand new

[b707]

@fatmark

What do you do if you have a component that requires 5volts?

Nano has 5v power, Pro mini may be either 5v either 3.3v

[LarryD]

Say you use a 9V battery on Vin ( not a PP3).

The Vcc pin on a 5V Pro Mini or the Nano would go to the other component.

You must remember the Arduino can only power small loads.

[fatmark]

Amazing. Thank you so so much.
This is the best forum I've ever been on.
You guys are the best!!!
Cheers
Mark

[sterretje]

Similar as post #2 but with screw connectors.

You can search for arduino screw shield

[LarryD]

See this post for some ideas.

Share tips you have come across

Project construction example and hints If you are new to making projects, below is a process you might want to try. Rather than using a prototyping PCB, we will build the following project on a copper clad PCB ‘mother board’. After you decide what you want to make, draw a schematic of your design showing ‘all’ the components in your circuit. There are many free PCB software packages for schematic design and PCB layout. If your design uses a SMPS (switch mode power supply) always add a ‘Fer…

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Note:

There are > 1000 posts on that thread that you might be interested in.

[LarryD]

Share tips you have come across

A jig to aid in making core bit pads. The ‘Core Bit Drilling Jig’ makes drilling pads in copper clad PCB material quick and easy. Attached images show all the materials needed and the use of the jig. Your 'work' is sandwiched between a drilling template and sandpaper. The jig holds the ‘work piece’ secure while drilling the circuit pads. Silicon carbide sandpaper bites into the ‘work’ so it does not move. Light downward pressure on the drilling template is all that is needed to hold the ‘…

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[camsysca]

Keep in mind, Nano clones can be purchased with bare holes (i.e. pin headers for you to solder in are included separately). If your project only needs a few connections, this is a good way to proceed. In a couple of cases, I've soldered the needed wires into the Nano, then hot-glued the wires to the bottom of the Nano for mechanical stability. Works really well (esthetics notwithstanding).
C

[camsysca]

Lots of other tips and tricks here:
https://forum.arduino.cc/t/share-tips-you-have-come-across/428745
C

[fatmark]

Thanks everyone. Nano it is!