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Shield (Arduino)

maker

An add-on board that extends the functionality of an Arduino microcontroller.

expanded

Shields are modular printed circuit boards designed to interface with an Arduino microcontroller board through pin headers. They enhance the capability of the base Arduino system by providing additional functions such as motor control, sensor interfaces, or wireless communication. Shields streamline prototyping by enabling complex features via plug-and-play peripherals.

examples

The Arduino Motor Shield allows for control of four DC motors or two stepper motors with a current of up to 2 A per channel.

Commonly used in robotic and automation projects to enable precise movement control using an Arduino Uno.

The Arduino WiFi Shield adds wireless connectivity to an Arduino board, supporting 802.11b/g/n standards with WPA2 encryption.

Utilized in Internet of Things (IoT) projects to facilitate data communication and remote control of devices via a wireless network.

related terms

Arduino
An open-source electronics platform based on easy-to-use hardware and software.
Development Board
A development board is a printed circuit board containing a microcontroller or microprocessor with integrated peripherals and interfaces to facilitate prototyping and development of electronic projects.
Prototyping board
A prototyping board is a platform used to assemble electronic circuits without soldering.
Breadboard
A breadboard is a flat, rectangular matrix of electrically conductive clips used for prototyping electronic circuits without soldering.
HAT (Raspberry Pi)
A Hardware Attached on Top (HAT) is a specification for add-on modules for the Raspberry Pi computer, designed for consistent electrical and mechanical interfacing.