The Adafruit METRO Mini 328 V2 is a compact and powerful development board designed for those who want a tiny, breadboard-friendly, and Arduino-compatible solution for their projects. This updated version of the METRO Mini comes with significant improvements, including a switch from the obsolete CP2104 USB-to-serial converter to the more reliable CP2102N. With its small size, USB Type-C port, and added STEMMA QT port, the METRO Mini V2 is perfect for integrating into various electronics projects.
Key Features:
- ATmega328P Microcontroller: The METRO Mini V2 runs on the popular ATmega328P chip, operating at 16 MHz, making it fully compatible with Arduino UNO libraries, code, and examples.
- Drop-In Compatible: The METRO Mini V2 keeps the same size, pinout, and mounting hole locations as the original, ensuring easy integration into your existing projects.
- STEMMA QT Port: A new STEMMA QT port allows easy plug-and-play I2C connections, making it simple to connect sensors and other peripherals without the need for soldering.
- USB Type-C: The board now uses a USB Type-C port instead of Micro B, offering a more modern and reliable connection.
- Upgraded USB-to-Serial Converter: The CP2102N USB-to-serial converter ensures consistent, reliable performance, with excellent driver support.
- Power Options: The METRO Mini V2 supports 6-16V power input (polarity protected) via the Vin pin, or you can power it via USB for 5V.
- 3.3V Logic: You can configure the board to operate at 3.3V logic by simply soldering a jumper, allowing you to interface with 3.3V logic devices.
- Digital I/O Pins: It offers 20 digital I/O pins, 6 of which can also be used as PWM outputs, and 6 that serve as Analog inputs.
- Versatile Communication: With support for hardware UART, SPI, and I2C, this board is great for a variety of communication needs.
- Built-In LEDs: It includes four indicator LEDs for easy debugging: a power LED, two RX/TX LEDs, and a red LED on pin PB5 (digital #13).
Why Choose the METRO Mini V2?
The Adafruit METRO Mini 328 V2 is perfect for projects that require small size, USB-to-serial communication, and Arduino compatibility. It’s ideal for prototyping and breadboard use, and its compact form factor allows it to fit easily into space-constrained projects. Whether you’re working with I2C devices via the STEMMA QT port, using the USB-C connection for power and data, or need flexible GPIO pins, this board delivers all the functionality you need in a tiny package.
Technical Specifications:
- Microcontroller: ATmega328P with Optiboot (UNO) bootloader
- USB-to-Serial Converter: Genuine SiLabs CP2102N
- Operating Voltage: 6-16V (Vin pin)
- Logic Level: 5V (can be converted to 3.3V)
- I/O Pins: 20 digital I/O pins, 6 PWM, and 6 analog inputs
- Flash Memory: 32KB (31.5KB available for user code)
- Clock Speed: 16 MHz
- Power Regulation: 5V regulator (150mA), separate 3.3V regulator (500mA)
- STEMMA QT Port: For I2C connections
- Dimensions: 44.3mm x 17.8mm x 4.9mm (1.7" x 0.7" x 0.2")
- Weight: 3.4g (0.1oz)
Additional Information:
- Pre-loaded Bootloader: Comes with the Optiboot bootloader for easy programming.
- Drivers: Ensure to install the SiLabs CP210x drivers for Mac and Windows to ensure proper functionality.
- Open Source: All hardware files are open-source and available on GitHub.
The METRO Mini V2 is a great choice for makers and engineers who need a small, capable, and flexible board for their projects, providing compatibility with the Arduino IDE and offering excellent performance for a wide range of applications.