An easy to use visual programming application for Arduino, allowing users to combine various elements, like communicators or variables.
- ArduBlock
- Version :20130814 / 20140828 Beta
- License :Freeware
- OS :Windows All
- Publisher :David Li
Download Now(V20130814)
Download Now(V20140828 Beta)
🔧 What is ArduBlock?
ArduBlock is a graphical programming tool for Arduino, designed for beginners and those who prefer visual block-based programming (like Scratch or Blockly). Instead of writing code in C++, you drag and drop visual blocks to build your program — and it gets translated into Arduino code.
It’s a great learning tool for:
- Kids and STEM education
- Beginners in electronics and coding
- Rapid prototyping of Arduino projects
✅ How to Use ArduBlock (Step-by-Step)
🔹 Step 1: Requirements
You need:
- Arduino IDE (official software)
- ArduBlock
.jarfile
🔹 Step 2: Install Arduino IDE
- Download from the official site: https://www.arduino.cc/en/software
- Install and run the IDE.
🔹 Step 3: Download and Install ArduBlock
- Download ArduBlock
.jarfrom here:- Official site
- Or direct GitHub forks (e.g., https://github.com/taweili/ardublock)
- Create a folder:
Documents\Arduino\tools\ArduBlockTool\tool - Place the downloaded
ardublock-all.jarfile in thattoolfolder. Final structure should look like:Documents └── Arduino └── tools └── ArduBlockTool └── tool └── ardublock-all.jar
🔹 Step 4: Launch ArduBlock from Arduino IDE
- Open the Arduino IDE.
- Go to:
Tools → ArduBlock - The ArduBlock interface will open in a new window.
🔹 Step 5: Build Your First Program
- Drag blocks from the left panel (control, pins, variables, etc.).
- Connect blocks to the “start” block (similar to
void setup()andvoid loop()in Arduino). - Example: Blink LED
- Use digital write block.
- Set pin to 13 (built-in LED).
- Use a delay block.
- Loop these actions.
🔹 Step 6: Upload to Arduino Board
- Click the “Upload” button in Arduino IDE (not in ArduBlock).
- It compiles and uploads the code generated from your visual blocks.
🌟 Why Use ArduBlock?
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Great for beginners | Not updated frequently |
| Visual and intuitive | Limited advanced functions |
| Simplifies prototyping | Less control than raw code |
| Teaches coding logic | Less popular than Scratch for Arduino (e.g. mBlock) |
🆚 ArduBlock vs. Alternatives
| Tool | Based On | Features |
|---|---|---|
| ArduBlock | Java | Lightweight, simple |
| mBlock | Scratch | More powerful, better UI |
| Tinkercad Circuits | Web-based | Online simulation |
| BlocklyDuino | Blockly | Customizable, web-based |
💡 Tip
If you’re working with kids or want a more modern experience, consider mBlock instead. It’s more up-to-date and supports extensions, robots (like mBot), and more.
