The Arduino Uno is an open source physical computing platform based on a simple microcontroller and a free user friendly software development environment. It is the latest in a series of USB Arduino boards. The Arduino Uno is the successor to the Arduino Duemilanove.
Arduino Uno - Get Started on the Fun!
Meet the new Arduino Uno. In addition to all the features of the previous board, the Uno now uses an ATmega8U2 instead of the FTDI chip. This allows for faster transfer rates, no drivers needed for Linux or Mac (inf file for Windows is needed), and the ability to have the Uno show up as a keyboard, mouse, joystick, etc.
The Arduino Uno can be used to develop cool interactive gadgets that can sense inputs from a variety of switches or sensors, and then control lights, motors, and other physical outputs in the real world. The objects created can be stand-alone or can be connected to software on a computer, or even directly to the Internet. It contains everything needed to support the microcontroller; simply connect it to a computer with a USB Cable or power it with an AC-to-DC adapter or battery to get started.
This is the latest version of the Arduino after the Duemilanove, with an improved USB interface chip. Like its predecessor, it not only has an expanded shield header with a 3.3V reference and a RESET pin and a 500mA fuse to protect your computer's USB port, but also an automatic circuit to select USB or DC power without a jumper. The Uno is pin and code-compatible with the Duemilanove, Diecimila and older Arduinos so all your shields, libraries, and code will still work.
The new Arduino Uno has a smaller bootloader. So even though the chip is the same, you get an extra 1.5Kb of flash memory that was previously used by the bootloader.
The Uno is physicially the same size and keeps the same layout as previous Arduinos. The mounting holes and stackable headers are in the same location.
Acessories: when creating projects with the Arduino Uno you will need a USB Cable to program the board. You may also choose to get a Wall Adapter Power Supply or a 9V Battery Snap to power the board when away from the computer.
