Controlling Arduino Using Python PyFirmata

Controlling Arduino Using Python PyFirmata

Pyfirmata is a Python package that lets you FULLY CONTROL the Arduino and code through Python. In this article, I will show you how to control your Arduino without coding it!

What is Pyfirmata?

Pyfirmata is a Python package that lets you communicate your Python script to your Arduino. This gives you access to all functions of the pins without coding the Arduino. Simply put, you can connect sensors without coding the board.

Using this, it is easier to integrate Arduino-based devices to other systems.

Arduino Setup

First thing to do is to setup the Arduino and upload “Standard Firmata” example code. To do this, open the Arduino IDE, go to File>Examples>Firmata>StandardFirmata. It will open a sample sketch.

Opening StandardFirmata in Arduino IDE
Opening StandardFirmata in Arduino IDE

No need to edit anything from this sketch. Just connect your Arduino and upload the sketch.

PyFirmata Setup

To install the package, simply search in the Python Packages window “PyFirmata”. just click install and wait for it to complete.

Sample Python Code

Now you can try the code below. The code below will make the Arduino blink its built-in LED. You can also read the pyfirmata documentation for more functions.

from pyfirmata import Arduino
import time

if __name__ == '__main__':
    board = Arduino('COM5')
    print("Communication Successfully started")

    while True:
        board.digital[13].write(1)
        time.sleep(1)
        board.digital[13].write(0)
        time.sleep(1)

Conclusion

So there you have it! Controlling Arduino Using Python PyFirmata. This project is intimidating at first but you will see that it is fairly easy to do. You can combine this to other Python or Arduino projects and build an awesome system!

Click the button below to download the sample code.

Download

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