Leonardo R3 ATMega32U4 Development Board

The Leonardo R3 ATMega32U4 Development Board is a powerful, Arduino-compatible microcontroller featuring the ATMega32U4 chip and a micro-USB connection. With 20 digital I/O pins (7 PWM outputs, 12 analog inputs), a 16 MHz crystal oscillator, power jack, ICSP header, and reset button, this board has everything you need for seamless microcontroller projects. It can be powered via USB, an AC-to-DC adapter, or a battery, making it highly versatile.

One of the standout features of the Leonardo R3 is the integrated USB communication provided by the ATMega32U4. This eliminates the need for a secondary processor and allows the board to function as a mouse, keyboard, or virtual (CDC) serial/COM port, making it ideal for HID (Human Interface Device) applications.

Specifications:

• Microcontroller: ATMega32U4
• Operating Voltage: 5V
• Input Voltage (recommended): 7-12V
• Input Voltage (limits): 6-20V
• Digital I/O Pins: 20 (7 PWM outputs)
• Analog Input Pins: 12
• DC Current per I/O Pin: 40 mA
• Flash Memory: 32 KB (4 KB used by bootloader)
• SRAM: 2.5 KB
• EEPROM: 1 KB
• Clock Speed: 16 MHz
• USB: Micro USB for programming/communication
• Dimensions: 68.6 mm x 53.3 mm

Key Features:

• Integrated USB Communication: Acts as a mouse, keyboard, or virtual COM port without extra processors.
• Versatile I/O: 20 digital I/O pins, 7 PWM outputs, and 12 analog inputs for flexible interfacing.
• Ample Memory: 32 KB flash memory, 2.5 KB SRAM, and 1 KB EEPROM for data storage.
• Breadboard Friendly: Easily fits on a breadboard for quick prototyping.
• Arduino IDE Compatible: Fully supported by Arduino IDE for simple development.
• Robust Power Management: Can be powered via USB, adapter, or battery with built-in voltage regulation.
• Resettable Fuse: PTC fuse for short circuit and overcurrent protection.
• ICSP Header: Easy programming and debugging via the In-Circuit Serial Programming header.
• HID Support: Ideal for USB device projects like custom keyboards or controllers.

Applications:

• Human Interface Devices (HID): Ideal for developing custom USB keyboards, mice, game controllers, and other HID applications thanks to the built-in USB support of the Leonardo R3 development board.
• Robotics: Perfect for robotics projects that require multiple digital and analog I/O pins, including motor control and sensor integration, ensuring seamless interaction between components.
• Prototyping: Best suited for rapid prototyping of circuits and projects on breadboards, allowing for quick and easy development of electronic systems.
• Interactive Installations: Excellent choice for art and interactive exhibits, especially where USB device emulation (keyboard or mouse input) is required for hands-on engagement.
• Automation Projects: Ideal for home or industrial automation tasks, capable of controlling sensors, actuators, and enabling efficient communication between connected devices.
• Education: Highly recommended for teaching electronics, programming, and microcontroller-based system design, thanks to its compatibility with the Arduino IDE, ease of use, and extensive community support.