🔴 PART 7 — DIGITAL OUTPUT & THE BLINKY PROJECT

What is the "Blinky" project?

A simple Arduino project where an LED is turned ON and OFF repeatedly.

It is often considered the hardware equivalent of "Hello World" in programming.

Why is the Blinky project useful?

It can verify that:

The Arduino is powered.

The wiring is correct.

The LED circuit works.

The program was uploaded correctly.

The Arduino is executing the code.

What is an LED?

LED stands for Light Emitting Diode.

It is an electronic component that produces light when current flows through it in the correct direction.

What does it mean that an LED is polarized?

It means an LED must be connected in the correct direction for current to flow properly through it.

How can you identify the anode of a typical LED?

The anode is the positive side (+) and is typically associated with the longer leg.

How can you identify the cathode of a typical LED?

The cathode is the negative side (−) and is typically associated with the shorter leg.

What is the correct current path in the Blinky circuit?

Arduino Pin 13 → resistor → LED anode → LED cathode → GND

Why is a resistor placed in series with the LED?

To limit the current flowing through the LED and prevent excessive current from damaging the LED or circuit.