Hi every one,
I have a question :
Which one of those Blocks software (visual scripting software) is better for programming Arduino ?
1 - Mixly
2 - Xod
3 - Codeblocks
4 - Mblock
5 - Ardublockly
Which one are you familiar with, use that one. If none see what your friends are using and do the same. It may not be the best solution but you will be able to talk to friends for mutual support.
...but as I think the better is avoid block software and start to learn programming in C instead...
i'm curious why you're interested in using a graphical "blocks" programming interface instead of writing a text program?
what is your background and what are you interested in doing with Arduino?
not sure if any "block" programming interface allows the use of libraries for more sophisticated programs?
@gcjr is curious why you're interested in using a graphical "blocks" programming interface instead of writing a text program?
+1/0!
Out of curiosity I looked at a few of these block graphical tools.
Some are limited in what you can do. Ardublox seems to have more stuff than Mixly, or was it the other way 'round?
They all seem to need some work to set up, I didn't try any of them. I have to assume they all function at least after you jump through the installation hoops.
To me it looks like pretty packaging, often in ways that will require you to learn something, then unlearn or leave it behind when you need to learn the real language at the bottom of it all.
I don't think any serious even hobby level accomplishments are based on or shared through block code documents.
If you want to start with graphical representations of code or algorithms or whatever, it's probably a better waste of time to learn basic computer operations in the abstract: sequence, choice and iteration, and delegation, the idea that things accomplished can be treated like a black box to exploit everywhere (functions and libraries).
And how those simple concepts can be used to create a program illustrated with a good old flowchart. Graphical 20th century style still works well. 
Take all the time you wasting with block graphical tools and just start reading, running and tinkering with the examples in the IDE, an LED or three (with current limiting resistors) and a few small pushbuttons.
If you are asking as a teacher preparing for a new batch of noobs, I would srsly rethink your lesson plans.
IMO and YMMV
a7
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I would add to this that Processing is a great companion to Arduino. With Processing, you can play around with things quicker in many cases since you don't have to build an electronic circuit.
You can almost immediately start playing around with sprites, gif animations, stuff like that. There's even a great Scratch library for Processing with fun examples to get your feet wet.
And if you are just doing regular Arduino stuff, please don't forget
Which is currently the best simulator for the Arduino and is useful even if you do have a lab full of real stuff.
Free, you don't even need an account of any kind.
a7
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i've seen the robotics kids use block to program the robot. of course it has all the necessary elements for robotics.
until C came along (albeit several decades ago) the only alternative i knew of (used) to interface to hardware was assembly. many other languages are constrained (e.g. my favorite, AWK)
but i doubt a "block" language teaches good programming technique and is more targeted to those not interested in programming to use computers within a narrow scope.
i've always been fond of the mis-quote -- " I'd rather write programs to write programs than write programs" Dick Sites.
I think it's worth asking, what's your objective with this?
Is it a requirement or are you avoiding text-based coding for a reason?
Cool, never saw that before!
Your other topic on the same subject deleted.
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Hey, @bastabasta, I personally recommend mBlock. Why?
- It has tons of devices, including Arduino UNO, Nano, and Mega.
- There are thousands of extensions for Arduino UNO, that let you code practically any sensor with it using blocks.
- The code editor has a stage where you can make games that interact with devices, quite easily.
- Another beneficial feature is that you can see what your blocks are in Arduino C:
- You can also create an account and save your project to the mBlock project cloud, find example programs, ask questions on the forum, and customize the program's appearance.
- With your account, you can even share your coding games & projects on the community, where people will encourage you to keep up the good work!
- Plus, you can make your own extensions for devices. If you've made an Arduino based device, you can add it to the device section with the extension builder, too.
- The best thing about mBlock is it is totally free!
You can code online if you don't want to download it yet:
It's not as good as the downloadable version, though.
~~
If you decide to use mBlock or get an account, please let me know! I'll be there to support you!
Thanks for your time,
Best_codes
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