ChApTEr 2 ■ hArdwArE for IoT SoluTIonSI have used the Sippino in numerous projects from small geeky alarm clocks (think servos, analog
gauges, and old-school glowing bulbs) to sensor nodes in sensor networks. The small size and card layout
make it easy to hide the Sippino in a small enclosure. If you need or want something compatible with the
older Arduino boards (or need to occasionally use it with an Arduino Uno–compatible shield) in a small
package, the Sippino is a good choice.
Another reason I like these boards is they are sold as kits where you assemble the board yourself.
The assembly is easy, and except for reading the values of the resistors (a skill every electronics hobbyist
must master), the components are easy to align to the correct spot on the board.
You can find specific documentation for the Sippino and Shield dock at http://spikenzielabs.com.
Spikenzie Labs Prototino
The Prototino is another product of SpikenzieLabs. It has the same components as the Sippino, but instead
of a breadboard-friendly layout, it’s mounted on a PCB that includes a full prototyping area. Like the Sippino,
it’s based on the ATmega328 processor and has 14 digital I/O pins, of which 6 can be used as PWM output,
and 6 analog input pins. The Prototino board has 32KB of flash memory and 2KB of SRAM.
The Prototino is ideal for building solutions that have supporting components and circuitry. In some
ways it’s similar to the Nano, Mini, and similar boards in that you can use it for permanent installations.
But unlike those boards (and even the Arduino Pro), the Prototino provides a space for you to add your
Figure 2-10. Sippino shield dock