Blinking with Arduino Circuit

Breadcrumb Abstract Shape
Breadcrumb Abstract Shape
Course Content
Introduction
The Blink LED project is the “Hello World” of Arduino. Just as a beginner programmer’s first task is to make a computer print “Hello World,” in electronics the first step is making an LED blink. This project helps you understand the three most important concepts in Arduino programming and electronics: 1. Digital Output – how a microcontroller pin can send a HIGH (5V) or LOW (0V) signal. 2. Timing Control – using the delay() function to pause the program. 3. Circuit Control – connecting a simple circuit with a resistor and LED, and controlling it through code. By completing this project, you will learn how hardware (the LED circuit) and software (the Arduino code) work together. This forms the foundation for controlling sensors, motors, and other components in future projects.
Hardware Required
Arduino Uno (or compatible board) • 1 × LED (any color, 5mm) • 1 × 220Ω resistor (limits current, prevents LED damage) • Breadboard • Jumper wires • USB cable (to connect Arduino to computer) (Tip: If you don’t have these, you can use the onboard LED already connected to pin 13 on most Arduino boards.)
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Blinking with Arduino Circuit
Schematic Diagram
Code with Step-by-Step Explanation
Hello LED – Blinking with Arduino

The circuit for this project is simple yet essential for understanding how Arduino controls physical components. The LED is connected so that its anode (long leg) receives current from Arduino’s digital pin 13, while its cathode (short leg) is connected to the ground (GND). Between the LED and the pin, a 220Ω resistor is placed in series to limit the flow of current and prevent the LED from burning out. When pin 13 is set to HIGH (5V), current flows from the Arduino through the resistor and LED into ground, causing the LED to light up. When the pin is set to LOW (0V), no current flows and the LED turns off. This simple circuit demonstrates how Arduino can act as a switch, controlling whether current flows or not, and is the foundation of many more complex electronic projects.

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