Arduino is a very popular open-source electronics prototyping platform based on easy-to-use hardware and software. Arduino boards have programmable microcontroller. With some codes, the boards are able to read inputs from sensors, switches and so on and produce outputs like lighting up LEDs, turning motors or activating relays. Using a free IDE (Integrated Development Environment) on your computer, you can write and upload codes directly to the board. The Arduino platform is great for people just starting out with electronics. The IDE uses a simplified version of C++, making it easier to learn to program.

Read the Getting started guide to learn more.

You can find the list of all official Arduino hardware here.

Derivatives Derivatives are boards that are fully or almost fully compatible with Arduino hardware and software. Due to the Open Source Hardware (OSHW) nature of Arduino, any interested party may modify the original design and produce their own Arduino-compatible boards. The creator of these boards usually add value to the original design and manufacture under different brand name.