Arduino UNO R4 Released! 32-bit Arm Development Boards with Upgraded Performance

Arduino has officially launched its new generation of Arduino UNO R4 development boards, offering two models for users to choose from: the UNO R4 Minima and the UNO R4 WiFi. The UNO R4 development boards are the same size as the previous UNO R3, but their specifications have been significantly upgraded, featuring the Arm Cortex-M4 based Renesas RA4M1 microcontroller and ESP32-S3 for WiFi connectivity.

Arduino UNO R4 Wifi and Arduino UNO R4 Minima

What’s New in the Arduino UNO R4?

With the RA4M1 microcontroller by Renesas, the new Arduino UNO R4 offers two options that have more computational power, memory, and speed than earlier versions. This makes it simpler to begin or improve projects based on UNO R3 while retaining the same shape and 5V operating voltage.

• More memory and faster clock: The UNO R4's 16x increase in memory and 3x faster clock speed allow it to perform more accurate calculations and manage more advanced projects than before.
• New built-in peripherals: The new built-in peripherals, including a 12-bit DAC, CAN BUS, OP AMP, and SWD port, expand the maker potential and make it easier to take on more advanced projects.
• New Hardware: The USB-C® connector is a smaller, more powerful, and robust cable standard. Additionally, the HID device feature makes interactive projects even cooler by allowing you to create interfaces with minimal effort and quickly.

Features of Arduino UNO R4

Both of Arduino UNO R4 boards use the Renesas RA4M1 processor with an Arm Cortex-M4 architecture, with a clock frequency increased to 48MHz, and built-in 32kB RAM and 256kB flash memory. The on-board peripherals are very rich, including a 12-bit DAC, CAN BUS, and OP AMP. The operating voltage is still 5V, but the input voltage range has been expanded to 24V to accommodate more external device connections, such as multiple motors, LED strips, and drivers.

In addition, a Qwiic connector has been added for easy connection of corresponding sensors and accessories. The R4 also supports HID functionality and can simulate mice, keyboards, and even game controllers. The USB connection interface has been upgraded to the widely used USB-C interface.

Interfaces of Arduino UNO R4

The Arduino UNO R4 Minima has increased its clock speed, added memory and storage space, and added a variety of peripheral support, and increased input voltage functionality to meet the needs of various peripheral devices.

The Arduino UNO R4 WiFi is equipped with an Espressif ESP32-S3 chip from Lexin Technology, which not only provides Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, but also has a powerful microprocessor with a clock speed of up to 240MHz, 512kB of SRAM, and 384kB of ROM. In addition, it has an OFF pin for turning off the development board, as well as a built-in real-time clock (RTC) and a VRTC pin for powering the RTC. Furthermore, the R4 WiFi board has a 12x8 red LED matrix that can be used to draw patterns or display information.

In summary, Arduino UNO R4 WiFi version is equipped with the Espressif S3 WiFi module, providing opportunities for makers, educators, and enthusiasts to expand their creativity. The Arduino UNO R4 Minima, on the other hand, offers an affordable option for those seeking a new microcontroller without the need for additional features.

Click here to buy the latest Arduino UNO R4 development board!