LilyPad Programmable Microcontroller Board – ATmega328P Chip with Micro USB 16M

SKU: FA1032
Microcontroller

ATmega328P or ATmega168V (depending on specific revision)
Operating Voltage

2.7V – 5.5 V
Clock Speed

8 MHz or 16 MHz (depending on specific product revision)
Digital I/O Pins

14 (6 provide PWM output)
Analog Input Pins

6
DC Current per I/O Pin

40 mA
Flash Memory

32 KB (ATmega328P) or 16 KB (ATmega168V); 2 KB used by bootloader
SRAM

2 KB (ATmega328P) or 1 KB (ATmega168V)
EEPROM

1 KB (ATmega328P) or 512 bytes (ATmega168V)
Dimensions

Approx. 50mm (2") diameter, 0.8mm thickness
LilyPad Programmable Microcontroller Board – ATmega328P Chip with Micro USB 16M
The LilyPad is an innovative microcontroller board specifically designed for integration into e-textiles and wearable projects. It offers the full functionality of a standard Arduino board within a unique, lightweight, and circular package that minimizes snagging and profile when sewn into fabric.
This board is based on the ATmega328P chip and operates at a versatile voltage range, making it ideal for battery-powered applications. It features a micro USB connection for easy programming and power, and large connection pads (sew tabs) that allow components to be connected using conductive thread rather than traditional wires. It’s an excellent platform for fashion designers, artists, and engineers looking to blend technology seamlessly into clothing and accessories.
Description
The LilyPad Programmable Microcontroller Board is a groundbreaking piece of technology that brings embedded electronics into the world of fabric and fashion. Developed by Leah Buechley in collaboration with SparkFun, the entire system is built around the unique challenge of creating washable, sewable, and low-profile electronic circuits.
At its core is the powerful yet efficient ATmega328P microcontroller, pre-loaded with the Arduino bootloader, ensuring seamless compatibility with the standard Arduino IDE software. The most distinctive feature is the replacement of traditional header pins with large, flat “sew tabs” around the perimeter. These tabs are designed to be connected using conductive thread, allowing the circuit to become part of the textile structure itself.
The board runs on a low operating voltage of 2.7V to 5.5V, making it perfectly suited for small, single-cell Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries or coin cell power supplies. A major convenience of this version is the inclusion of a micro USB port for direct programming from a computer, which on some specific versions (like the LilyPad USB ATmega32u4, a related product) also allows for on-board LiPo battery charging if a JST connector is present.
With a flat back design to prevent poking through fabric, and a robust construction that is even hand-washable (with the battery removed), the LilyPad opens up endless possibilities for creative and integrated technology projects.
Features
  • Wearable Form Factor: Unique lightweight, round design with a flat back minimizes snagging and optimizes profile for integration into fabric.
  • Sewable Connections: Large, wide “sew tabs” replace pins, designed for connection using conductive thread.
  • Microcontroller: Utilizes the ATmega328P chip, compatible with Arduino programming.
  • Micro USB Port: For easy programming and power connection directly from a computer.
  • Wide Operating Voltage: Flexible power input range of 2.7V to 5.5V, suitable for various battery types.
  • Washable: Projects built with the LilyPad are hand-washable (battery must be removed).
  • Pin Indicators: Includes a built-in LED on digital pin 13 for debugging and status indication.
  • Automatic Reset Support: Simplifies the programming process within the Arduino IDE.
Usage
The LilyPad is primarily used in creative and wearable electronics (e-textiles) projects:
  1. Wearable Technology: Embed lights, sensors, and sound into clothing, costumes, and accessories for interactive fashion.
  2. Smart Garments: Develop prototypes for commercial smart clothing applications, such as posture monitoring vests or heated jackets.
  3. Interactive Art Installations: Create soft sculptures and fabric-based art pieces that react to touch, light, or proximity using conductive thread circuits.
  4. Education: An excellent platform for teaching basic electronics and programming in a fun, tactile, and fabric-based medium, especially for students interested in arts and design.
Simply program the board via the micro USB cable using the Arduino IDE (select the appropriate board setting, e.g., “Arduino Pro Mini 3.3V/8MHz ATmega328” or similar setting based on your clock speed), disconnect the USB, and power it with a small battery to bring your textile project to life.
Q: Do I need a special programmer to upload code to this board?

No. This version features a micro USB port, allowing you to program it directly using a standard micro USB cable and the Arduino IDE software. Older LilyPad boards required a separate FTDI Basic breakout board for programming.

Q: Is the LilyPad board waterproof? Can I wash my project?

The board is not waterproof, but it is “washable.” You must remove the battery/power supply entirely before washing the textile project by hand with mild detergent. The project should then be air-dried completely for several days before reapplying power.

Q: What is the operating voltage, and what kind of battery should I use?

The board operates between 2.7V and 5.5V. It is commonly powered by a single 3.7V Lithium Polymer (LiPo) battery connected via an optional JST connector, or a 3V coin cell battery. Do not exceed 5.5V as it can damage the board.

Q: How do I connect sensors or LEDs to the board?

Connections are made using “conductive thread,” which you sew through the large tabs on the board and onto your fabric to the other components. This eliminates the need for soldering or wires in the main fabric areas.

Q: Will this board work with the standard Arduino UNO code and libraries?

Yes, it is fully compatible with the Arduino ecosystem and most libraries. You will just need to select the correct board type (e.g., “Arduino Pro Mini” with the correct voltage/MHz) in the Arduino IDE when uploading your code.

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