> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.veerobot.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.veerobot.com/arduino-based-robots/micro-xbot/programming-the-board.md).

# Programming the Board

### Arduino IDE

Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE) is a development environment that contains a text area for writing code, message area, menu bar and buttons. The environment is fully compatible with Leo board and is used to write programs and communicate with Leo Board. Software written using this environment are called sketches. Arduino IDE is available for all three major operating systems (OS) – Windows, Mac OS X and Linux. Download the latest version of IDE from the official website [www.arduino.cc](http://www.arduino.cc)

<figure><img src="/files/OKdCe00fHBV9eTujpUVL" alt=""><figcaption><p>Download Arduino from Official Website</p></figcaption></figure>

The programs in this tutorial is tested on Arduino 1.8.x version. You may either choose 1.8.x version, or the latest Arduino 2.x version. We would suggest 1.8.x until minor bugs in the newest version is sorted out

Once the IDE is installed, open the program by clicking arduino.exe (or whatever extension depending on your OS)

<figure><img src="/files/qgfbNqxKlpQT9NSrzXM7" alt=""><figcaption><p>Default Arduino GUI</p></figcaption></figure>

The IDE is a single piece of software we use to write programs (known as sketchs), compile and upload it to the board. We can also use the serial monitor which is built into the IDE for debugging and information display.

### Programming Micro:Xbot

1. Connect six pin cable from FTDI Module to FTDI programming pins on the board.
2. Write your own program, or use any of the programs in this tutorial on the IDE.
3. Choose Arduino Uno as board under Tools menu
4. Select the correct COM Port under Tools -> Port
5. Click on Tick Icon (or Sketch -> Verify/Compile) to compile the sketch
6. Click on Arrow Icon (or Sketch -> Upload) to upload the sketch to the board
7. Check the console area (The black bottom area) for Success / Error messages

If the console area says "Upload Done", the program is successfully uploaded. In the next few sections, we will program different sensors and modules available on micro:Xbot and in the later section, assemble it as a complete robot and control it.


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