stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding

Development Tools Uploading
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When my Arduino can no longer be programmed with the serial USB port, I use the ICSP pins to reload the bootloader. So far that method has resolved problems every time for me.

I've found the single most reliable way to program the Arduino is with a USBASP programmer. You can find them on ebay for just a few bucks. I suggest getting one with 3.3/5V selectable voltage, as well as a 10 pin to 6 pin adapter. (the USBASP typically has 10 pins, Arduino has 6).

With the USBASP, you can also easily reload the bootloader (see tools - burn bootloader). This will typically allow you to again program via the on-board USB connection.

This site has great resources: USBasp - USB programmer for Atmel AVR controllers - fischl.de

Note that the drivers need to be installed manually. Zadig is a great resource for this: http://zadig.akeo.ie/

Be sure to only plug in the USBasp device to the computer, NOT the Arduino (you don't want to have multiple sources powering the Arduino, you might fry something). Remove the ICSP cable if you go back to programming with the on-board Arduino USB connection.

I've included more detailed instructions and pictures here:

Hope this helps...

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43

check your wrong pin connection

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MAC OS X YOSEMITE Version 10.10.5
Arduino Uno

I manage to connect the right board,"Arduino/ Genuino Uno" and port, "/dev/cu.usbmodem1411 (Arduino/ Genuino Uno)".
I am trying to upload the built-in example "blink", verified, pressed reset on the board and then clicked upload.
"avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding" shows up in red

I have read the forums and I still do not find what is wrong. My Arduino is naked. Nothing is connected other than the usb port from the board to my laptop. I tried changing wires, checking the burnloader, checking the board, checking the port and I still have not solved it yet!! HELP!!!!

1 Like
45

I am building a Elegoo Smart Robotic car v3.0 and the software I am using is Arduino, so I got a account and then when I uploaded it it said programmer not responding. I have a UNO R3 and it seems to not be working. If you know that error and have a solution please post it so I and other people may use it to fix this bug.

Thank You,
jaffery1

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I cannot program it at all

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I'm running Mac OS. What really helped with "programmer is not responding" problem is to install Java package:

https://support.apple.com/kb/DL1572?locale=en_US

48

Hi There
I've struggled with the same issue:
vrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding
avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 1 of 10: not in sync: resp=0x8f
...
avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 10 of 10: not in sync: resp=0x8f
Problem uploading to board. See http://www.arduino.cc/en/Guide/Troubleshooting#upload for suggestions.

I might have an interesting observation, which someone might be able to verify!?

When I use an older Arduino version (1.6.13), I do not experience any issue. E.g. the Blink sketch uploads without any issue, and executes on the Nano.

I see the issue of 'programmer is not responding...' in versions 1.8.9 (Windows Store 1.8.21.0) and on the Arduino WEB.

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my error stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding. gone,when I did. Tool> Processor ATmega (old bootloader)

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sbv1307:
When I use an older Arduino version (1.6.13), I do not experience any issue. E.g. the Blink sketch uploads without any issue, and executes on the Nano.

I see the issue of 'programmer is not responding...' in versions 1.8.9 (Windows Store 1.8.21.0) and on the Arduino WEB.

In the beginning of 2018, Arduino changed the bootloader for the Nanos. Clones and older originals use what is called the 'old bootloader' in newer IDEs (see reply #47); in older IDEs it was 328P (or something like that). New originals use the 328P bootloader in the newer IDEs.