In previous Lessons, we have learned using Micro Python to program Raspberry Pi Pico.
Python is a powerful and beginner-friendly programming language. However, if you have Arduino programming experience, you might want to use Arduino IDE to program Pico.
Fortunately Arduino IDE now supports Raspberry Pi Pico. So now you can easily use Arduino libraries to program Pico board and save you a lot of coding and researching time.
In this lesson, we will show you how to use Arduino IDE to program Pico and run the Arduino Blink example program in Pico as demo.
Raspberry Pi Pico board and microUSB cable
A computer to run Arduino IDE
Install Arduino IDE
If you have never installed Arduino IDE, please read This tutorial to install Arduino IDE in your PC.
Install Arduino Mbed OS RP2040 board to support Pico:
Open Arduino IDE ->Tools ->Board Manager
In search bar, search pico , you will find a board name "Arduino Mbed OS RP2040 board ",
Click Install button to install this board into IDE.
It might take a couple of minutes to install the software into Arduino IDE.
Connect Pico board to your PC
Step 1: Push and hold the BOOTSEL button in your Pico board and connect Pico into the USB port of your PC.
Step 2: In Arduino IDE select : Tools ->Board -> Arduino Mbed OS RP2040 Boards ->Raspberry Pi Pico
Unlike real Arduino Boards(UNO, Nano etc), Pico board does not need to select Ports in the IDE.
Step 3: In Arduino IDE , select File -> Examples ->Basics -> Blink
Step 4: Press Upload button , Now Arduino IDE will compile the code and upload the sketch into Pico board.
If you have any upload errors, it means your Pico does not connected to PC properly. Please repeat Step 1 again.
After IDE shows “Done uploading” , it means the blink program is running in Pico board. You will see the LED in Pico board is continuously flashing same as Lesson 1
Install Arduino IDE
In search bar, search pico , you will find a board name "Arduino Mbed OS RP2040 board ",
Click Install button to install this board into IDE.
It might take a couple of minutes to install the software into Arduino IDE.
