Arduino DUE: Pinout, Datesheet, Features, IDE and Simulation
July 10 10:22:50, 2025
Arduino DUE is the first Arduino board to feature a 32-bit ARM microprocessor, specifically the SAM3X8E ARM Cortex-M3. It operates at 84 MHz, significantly faster than typical 8-bit boards like the ATmega328p, which run at 16 MHz. This enhanced processing speed makes it more powerful and suitable for complex projects that require high data processing capabilities, large memory capacity, and extensive input/output pins. The board runs on a 9V battery, making it versatile for various applications.
Released in October 2012, the Arduino DUE was designed as a user-friendly platform for beginners, designers, and hobbyists. While earlier 8-bit boards had limitations in handling high-speed data and memory, the DUE excels in complex projects that demand high processing speed and advanced coding. This article covers its datasheet, specifications, main features, pinouts, IDE, and applications, along with setup and comparisons with other Arduino boards.
The Arduino DUE's technical specifications are impressive. It uses the Atmel SAM3X8E ARM Cortex-M3 processor, running at 84 MHz. It has 256 KB of flash memory, 96 KB of SRAM, and emulated EEPROM via flash. The operating voltage is 3.3V, and it supports a wide range of communication protocols including UART, I²C, SPI, and USB OTG. The board features 54 digital I/O pins, 12 of which support PWM, 12 analog input pins with 12-bit resolution, and two DAC pins for true analog output. It also includes power input options from 7-12V via a power jack or Vin pin.
The DUE's pinout is comprehensive, offering multiple types of pins such as digital I/O, PWM, analog inputs, analog outputs, protocol pins, I²C, SPI, USB ports, power pins, and reset and AREF pins. These features make it highly flexible for various applications. The board is ideal for robotics, IoT projects, scientific research, home automation, and audio processing due to its high precision and performance.
The Arduino DUE uses the Arduino IDE, which provides a simple code editor, library manager, serial monitor, and examples and tutorials. Setting up the IDE involves installing it, selecting the DUE board, connecting via USB, and uploading code. While the IDE is user-friendly, it lacks some advanced debugging tools and auto-complete features.
Simulation tools like Proteus Design Suite allow users to test and debug circuits virtually before building them physically. Proteus offers detailed circuit design, full simulation of the DUE, interactive debugging, and a vast library of components. However, it is paid software and requires learning curves for beginners.
Applications of the Arduino DUE include robotics, automation, IoT systems, environmental monitoring, scientific research, home automation, and audio processing. Its high-performance capabilities make it suitable for projects requiring precise control and real-time data processing.
In conclusion, the Arduino DUE is a powerful and versatile microcontroller board ideal for complex projects. It bridges the gap between beginner and advanced-level applications, offering high processing power, memory, and connectivity. Despite some limitations, its features make it an excellent choice for a wide range of projects. Understanding its capabilities allows users to leverage its strengths effectively in various applications.