Arduino Shield - communication

Connect your Arduino to the internet!

Many projects can get additional functionality if we give them access to the Internet with appropriate communication modules, for example Arduino Ethernet Shield, Arduino MKR Ethernet Shield, LinkIt Smart or Ethernet Shield W5100 for Arduino. Let's take the first one as an example - the Arduino Ethenet Shield, which allows Arduino boards to communicate with external devices via the Internet. The second, latest version of the module is based on the W5500 chip and is equipped with a microSD card reader. To run the Ethernet Shield, connect it to the GPIO pins of the Arduino board and then connect it to the computer via the USB cable. Finished programs can be uploaded to the board and then you can disconnect it from the computer, as it can work independently (of course, in this case it needs an appropriate external power supply). Arduino communication modules are connected to a computer or router using a standard CAT5 or CAT6 Ethernet cable with RJ45 connector. For the communication board to work, it must have an assigned address MAC and a fixed IP address programmatically assigned using the Ethernet.begin () function, where IP addressing depends on your network configuration. By using the DHCP protocol, you can easily assign an IP address to the Arduino communication module and specify a network gateway or subnet. Ethernet Shield also works with a library that supports microSD memory cards.

Arduino connectivity with GSM / GPRS network

However, the functionality of our communication modules does not end with Internet access. For example, with the Arduino GSM Shield 2 module, you can not only connect the Arduino to the Internet, but also send and receive voice calls and text messages. This extremely universal shield has a built-in Quectel M10 radio modem, and thanks to the AT commands, additional communication with the board is also possible. Also in this case the configuration of the module is unproblematic. Pin no.2 on the GSM Shield 2 board is connected to the TX pin of the M10 modem, while pin no.3 to the RX pin. The M10 modem can operate on GSM 850 MHz and 900 MHz, DCS 1800 MHz and PCS 1900 MHz frequencies and supports TCP / UDP and HTTP communication protocols through GPRS communication with a maximum data throughput of 85.6 kb / s. If you want the Arduino GSM Shield 2 to work with cellular networks, then you must insert a SIM card provided by the GSM network operator.

Amazing possibilities thanks to Arduino communication modules

Communication modules for Arduino surprise with their universality and versatility. Some allow communication via the Internet, others via Bluetooth, still others use radio waves. They are used for home and small projects, as well as for the largest projects implemented by laboratories or companies. As always, Arduino guarantees a lot of fun for any enthusiast of programmable electronics! Check out our offer of several dozen communication modules compatible with Arduino and choose the one that will be tailored to your needs!