Example
Here's a short example that demonstrates the setup() and loop() functions. This can be loaded into the Arduino IDE by choosing File > Examples > 01. Basics > Blink. (Note: Most Arduino boards have an LED already connected to pin 13, but you may need to add an external LED to see the effects of this sketch.)
// the setup function runs once when you press reset or power the board
void setup() {
// initialize digital pin 13 as an output.
pinMode(13, OUTPUT);
}
// the loop function runs over and over again forever
void loop() {
digitalWrite(13, HIGH); // turn the LED on (HIGH is the voltage level)
delay(1000); // wait for a second
digitalWrite(13, LOW); // turn the LED off by making the voltage LOW
delay(1000); // wait for a second
}
The above snippet:
-
Defines the
setup()function. Thesetup()function gets called first on execution in every Arduino program.-
Sets pin 13 as an output.
Without this, it might be set to an input, which would make the LED not work; however once it is set as an output it will stay that way so this only needs to be done once when the program starts.
-
-
Defines the
loop()function. Theloop()function is called repeatedly for as long as the program is running.digitalWrite(13, HIGH);turns the LED on.delay(1000);waits one second (1000 milliseconds).digitalWrite(13, LOW);turns the LED off.delay(1000);waits one second (1000 milliseconds).
Because loop() is run repeatedly for as long as the program is running, the LED will flash on and off with a period of 2 seconds (1 second on, 1 second off). This example is based off of the Arduino Uno and any other board that already has an LED connected to Pin 13. If the board that is being used does not have an on-board LED connected to that pin, one can be attached externally.
More on timing (for example delays and measuring time): Time Management
