MIKROE Streamlines Click Board Integration for Arduino Portenta

The Click Shield for Arduino Portenta comes equipped with two mikroBUS™ sockets, providing developers with the flexibility to integrate a wide array of functions into their projects. These functions range from sensors and communication modules to advanced audio processing and motor control capabilities, all seamlessly compatible with the powerful Arduino Portenta.

Nebojsa Matic, the CEO of MIKROE, emphasizes the value of this Click shield as a cost-effective and versatile platform for users to experiment with new ideas and build prototypes. Leveraging the dual-core capability of the STM32H747 processor in Portenta, these boards are well-suited for high-performance industrial applications. They combine low power consumption with advanced features like machine learning and IoT connectivity, catering to a diverse range of development needs.

The Arduino Portenta stands out for its ability to run Arduino code and MicroPython simultaneously, offering robust connectivity options such as WiFi, BLE, and the choice of LoRa or cellular modules. Its modular design enhances adaptability for additional hardware, making it ideal for industrial use in demanding environments like machinery, PLCs, and robotics. Moreover, the Portenta is capable of handling AI and machine learning applications, enabling the implementation of intelligent IoT solutions directly on the device.

The Click Shield includes several key features that enhance the functionality and user-friendliness of the board. The Boot mode switch allows for easy configuration of the boot mode, while the JTAG connector facilitates debugging and low-level tasks. The I2S pins on the shield are particularly useful for high-quality audio processing and streaming tasks on the Arduino Portenta, making it a valuable tool for developers working on multimedia projects.

With three essential connectors, the Click Shield significantly expands the capabilities of the Portenta board. The Ethernet connector enables internet connectivity via an Ethernet cable, facilitating robust network interactions like sending HTTP methods or communicating with other devices and APIs. Additionally, the camera connector accelerates the development of machine vision applications, transforming the Portenta into an industrial camera capable of real-time machine-learning algorithms on live video feeds. The MicroSD card holder on the Click Shield allows for the encoding of captured frames to bitmap standards and their storage on an SD Card, enhancing the utility of the board in complex projects.