GertDuino is a Raspberry Pi add-on board that provides an Arduino Uno-compatible ATmega328 for sketches and hardware control, plus extra buttons, LEDs, serial hardware and a second microcontroller. It can be programmed from a Raspberry Pi or removed and used on its own. It is legacy hardware, however, so its historical setup instructions should be checked against the Pi and operating system you actually use.
What GertDuino is—and what it adds
Element14’s 2013 product documentation describes GertDuino as a Raspberry Pi add-on offering Arduino Uno functionality with additional features. Its main microcontroller is an ATmega328 running at 5 V with a 16 MHz oscillator; the board has connectors described as 100-percent Arduino Uno-compatible. That makes it suitable for Arduino-style sketches and deterministic input/output, while the Pi can provide Linux, networking, storage and higher-level control.
Alongside the ATmega328, the board includes a reset switch, two user push buttons, six LEDs and an RS232 level converter. A second chip, an ATmega48, is connected to the Pi’s I2C interface and intended for real-time-clock or IrDA-related use; it is also freely programmable. The ATmega328 board can be programmed from the Pi, or detached and used standalone. Element14’s GertDuino documentation describes the board’s hardware and features.
How the two microcontrollers fit into a project
ATmega328: Arduino-style control
Use the ATmega328 for Arduino sketches and responsive, predictable hardware tasks such as reading sensors or controlling actuators. The Pi can coordinate those tasks while handling functions better suited to a Linux computer, such as network services, data logging and application logic. This division is a useful design pattern, not a requirement: GertDuino can also operate independently of the Pi.
#1 Best Overall
ATmega48: a small second embedded task
The ATmega48 can be used for RTC- or IrDA-oriented work, or programmed for another small embedded job. Its 4 KB of flash is a real constraint: Raspberry Pi engineer Gordon Hollingworth noted that Arduino libraries can use that space quickly. His combined wiring, IrDA, I2C, RTC and low-power code compiled to about 3 KB, an example of a compact program rather than a general capacity guarantee. Hollingworth’s 2013 setup post discusses the software and memory considerations.
Programming GertDuino from a Raspberry Pi
The available setup guidance is historical, dating from 2013. Hollingworth’s instructions point to the GertDuino project software, a patched version of avrdude and an avrsetup program that sets fuses for the ATmega328P and ATmega48P. He explicitly described the instructions as supplementary to the manual and urged users to read it. These directions are not evidence of compatibility with current Raspberry Pi operating systems, toolchains or GPIO stacks; verify them for the specific system before relying on them.
Rank #2
- Unlock your creativity with the versatile UNO R3 Board ATmega328P! Explore endless possibilities in electronics projects with its user-friendly Arduino development environment, extensive digital and analog I/O pins, and compatibility with various sensors and modules. Let your imagination soar!
- Experience the power of UNO R3 Board ATmega328P! This feature-packed development board boasts a high-performance ATmega328P microcontroller, 32KB of flash memory, and 2KB of SRAM. It's perfect for both beginners and advanced users seeking to build innovative applications in robotics, home automation, and more.
- Ignite your passion for electronics with the UNO R3 Board ATmega328P! Its open-source design allows for customization, while its 14 digital I/O pins and 6 analog input pins provide ample connectivity options. Get ready to bring your ideas to life and create interactive projects like never before.
- Elevate your DIY projects with the UNO R3 Board ATmega328P! This highly versatile development board offers seamless integration with the Arduino ecosystem, providing access to a vast library of code and resources. With its reliable performance and broad compatibility, you can easily prototype and realize your electronic dreams.
- Discover the endless potential of the UNO R3 Board ATmega328P! With its robust communication interfaces, including UART, SPI, and I2C, you can connect and communicate with a wide range of devices. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, this powerful development board is a must-have for creating innovative and interactive electronic systems.
- Read the board manual first. Check the instructions for the board revision, jumpers and power connections before applying power or programming either chip.
- Consult the GertDuino project software and setup notes. The 2013 maintainer post points to the project software, patched avrdude and
avrsetup; treat these as legacy instructions and confirm they work with your Pi’s installed OS and software. - In the Arduino IDE, select “Upload Using Programmer.” The Raspberry Pi FAQ says to use this option instead of the normal upload button. Its historical installation instructions invoke
sudo make -f make_install_gertduino; do not assume that command or its dependencies are suitable for a current installation without checking the project instructions. - Remove any attached shield while programming. Programming pins are also present on board connectors, and a shield can interfere with the signals.
If avrdude repeatedly reports verification errors, the FAQ suggests slowing its communication using the -i option. The FAQ does not establish one universally correct delay value, so adjust only in accordance with the avrdude and project instructions for your setup. Raspberry Pi’s current computer documentation is useful for identifying the software environment in use, but it does not replace the GertDuino manual or confirm that legacy installation steps remain compatible.
Pi 2 compatibility and boot failures
The GertDuino FAQ says Raspberry Pi 2 requires updated device-tree software. That is a historical compatibility note, not confirmation that any particular current OS image supports the board. Check the software requirements for the exact Pi model and OS you plan to run.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Rank #3
![Vilros Arduino Uno Starter Kit - Includes Arduino Uno R3 Board, 190+ Electronics Components, Breadboard, Jumper Wires, DC Motor, Servo, Relay, Full-Color 72 Page Manual [190+ Pieces]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61B5omztIkL._SL160_.jpg)
- Complete Arduino Uno R3 Starter Kit for Beginners: Kickstart your electronics projects with the Vilros Arduino Uno R3 kit. Includes over 190 components such as Arduino Uno, breadboard, jumper wires, DC motor, servo, and relay. Perfect for beginners and electronics enthusiasts. Great electronics kit for learning circuit fundamentals.
- Comprehensive Instruction Manual for Easy Learning: The 72-page full-color instruction manual guides you step-by-step in mastering Arduino programming, perfect for both beginners and experts. Learn the basics of Arduino Uno and electronic circuits, and how to use each component effectively in your own projects.
- 190+ Electronics Components for Multiple Projects: With over 190 components like resistors, LEDs, transistors, and more, this kit gives you everything you need to build Arduino circuits and projects. From jumper wires to breadboard holders, you’re all set for creating your own innovations in electronics.
- Value-Packed with $100+ of Components: Save more than 40%! This Arduino starter kit includes a wide variety of components valued over $100. Whether you're a beginner or experienced user, this kit offers exceptional value, providing everything needed for Arduino Uno and electronics accessories & supplies.
- Versatile & Compatible with Other Kits: In addition to being perfect for Arduino Uno R3 projects, this kit is compatible with Raspberry Pi and other electronics tool kits. Learn to integrate components into various DIY projects and explore endless possibilities in Arduino programming and electronics.
A separate documented fault involves the ATmega48 holding the I2C clock line, SCL, low. The FAQ associates this condition with safe-mode boots, restart problems or loss of remote-shell access. Its stated remedies are clearing the chip or holding it in reset. If the Pi will not boot reliably with GertDuino attached, disconnect the board first to regain access where possible, then consult the manual and FAQ before changing the ATmega48 state. Avoid repeated restarts or remote-only troubleshooting if the board prevents the Pi from reaching a usable state. The Raspberry Pi forum setup and FAQ thread records these historical failure modes and remedies.
Voltage, wiring and setup safety
The Arduino side of GertDuino runs at 5 V, whereas Raspberry Pi GPIO uses a different electrical environment. Element14 says connections between the board and Pi are protected against 5 V signals, but that statement is not a substitute for following the board manual’s jumper and power instructions. Before connecting the board, verify the required jumper positions and power arrangement for your revision; do not infer that every pin or possible wiring configuration is protected.
Rank #4
- All-in-One Kit, No Extra Purchases Needed: Equipped with 83 full-range components including UNO R3 compatible board, sensors, LEDs, resistors and USB cable, this beginner-friendly electronics kit meets needs of college STEM classes and self-study projects. Start your first electronics circuit build immediately without wasting time on supplementary part shopping.
- Pre-Labeled Parts for Easy Identification: Every component is individually packaged with black labels. No time wasted sorting tiny parts, even beginners can quickly assemble without frustration, ideal for fast-paced college courses and DIY makers.
- 12 Progressive Projects with Detailed Tutorials: Master electronics basics step by step with guided tutorials ranging from simple blinking LED circuits to exciting gesture-controlled light builds. Each project includes clear wiring diagrams, ready-to-use sample code and in-depth principle explanations, ensuring you understand the "why" behind every operation instead of blind following—suitable for college STEM assignments and beginner skill improvement.
- Premium Quality & Reliable Support: 22-gauge thick jumper wires ensure long-term use. DFRobot provides technical support to solve problems during learning--—which is why educators and makers trust DFRobot.
How GertDuino compares with an Uno or a newer Pi add-on
GertDuino is most compelling when the combination of Uno-compatible connectors, Pi programming integration and extra onboard hardware suits a project. A conventional Uno is simpler if a separate Arduino board meets the need. A newer Pi add-on may be preferable when maintained software and documented support for a current operating system matter more than GertDuino’s particular peripherals. The available documentation does not establish a current manufacturing status, market availability or a measured performance comparison.
| Decision factor | GertDuino | Conventional Arduino Uno | Newer Raspberry Pi add-on |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arduino compatibility | ATmega328, 5 V, 16 MHz and connectors documented as 100-percent Uno-compatible by Element14 in 2013. | Not specified in the cited GertDuino documentation; compare the exact Uno model and revision. | Not stated for a particular product; compatibility depends on the add-on. |
| Pi integration | Designed as a Pi add-on and documented as programmable from the Pi; its ATmega48 connects to Pi I2C. | Separate board; Pi integration depends on the connection and software used. | Depends on the add-on; check its own documentation. |
| Extra onboard hardware | Reset switch, two buttons, six LEDs, RS232 level converter, and an ATmega48 for RTC/IrDA-oriented or other small tasks. | Not stated in the GertDuino documentation; check the exact Uno. | Not stated for a particular product. |
| Software maintenance | Setup notes date to 2013 and reference patched avrdude and historical installation steps; current OS compatibility is not established. | Depends on the model and programming environment; not compared by the cited sources. | Depends on the product’s current support and documentation. |
| Availability | Current manufacturing and stock are not established by the cited documentation. | Not assessed here. | Varies by product and seller. |
Buying or reusing a GertDuino today
Treat GertDuino as legacy hardware rather than assuming new stock or current software support. If acquiring a used board, confirm the board revision, that the ATmega328 and ATmega48 are present, that connectors are intact, and that the required jumpers are included. Check the seller’s return terms, especially if you cannot test the board with your intended Pi and operating system before purchase. The available documentation does not establish a current Amazon or regional distributor offer.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesQuick Recap
Best Value
- Package includes: 1 x base plate for UNO R3, 1 x terminal optimizer breadboard, mounting screws and nuts
- Base plate designed for Arduino UNO R3
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
