Advanced Arduino Mode

Learn how to export Bottango animations to your Arduino so they can run without a computer.

By default, Bottango requires a live USB connection to your microcontroller. But what if you want your project to run without a computer? That’s where Arduino Mode comes in.

Arduino Mode allows you to export motion sequences as code and upload them to your board, enabling completely standalone operation.

🧠 How It Works

In Arduino Mode:

• Bottango generates Arduino code that plays your animation(s)
• The code is uploaded like a regular Arduino sketch
• Your board will loop or play the animation based on how you program it

Perfect for costumes, props, or permanent installations!

🛠️ Step 1: Design Your Animation

1. Create your motion in Bottango as usual
2. Keep it simple — Arduino Mode supports basic motion and triggers
3. Save the project before exporting

🔄 Step 2: Export for Arduino Mode

1. Go to File > Export for Arduino Mode
2. Choose your board type (e.g., Arduino Uno)
3. Bottango will generate a .ino file and a lib/ folder with dependencies

📦 Step 3: Open in Arduino IDE

1. Open the exported .ino file in the Arduino IDE
2. Install any required libraries if prompted
3. Select the correct board and port under Tools
4. Click Upload

Once uploaded, your board will run the motion sequence immediately on power-up.

🧪 Optional: Add Custom Logic

Since the exported sketch is real Arduino code, you can modify it! For example:

• Add a push button to start the motion
• Trigger animations with sensors (e.g., PIR, ultrasonic)
• Chain multiple sequences using timers or flags

🧰 Tips for Arduino Mode

• Export each sequence as a separate project if you want to switch between them
• Keep your animation short and loopable for best performance
• Test on USB before switching to standalone mode

🎯 Example: Halloween Prop

1. Animate a jaw moving up and down in Bottango
2. Export using Arduino Mode
3. Add a motion sensor in the sketch to trigger the animation
4. Power your board with a battery or wall adapter

Now you’ve got a spooky, motion-activated animatronic!

Next up: Using Bottango with a Gamepad

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