While often described as using C++, the exact answer is that Arduino uses a variant of the C++ programming language. It is not purely standard C++, but rather C++ with specific additions tailored for the Arduino environment.
Understanding Arduino's Programming Language
Based on the provided reference, the core of Arduino programming lies in C++. However, it's crucial to understand the nuances:
- Variant of C++: The language is built upon C++, leveraging its structure, syntax, and power.
- Special Additions: The Arduino environment adds specific libraries, methods, and functions that simplify common tasks like interacting with hardware (e.g., turning on an LED, reading a sensor). These additions make programming microcontrollers more accessible than using pure C++ from scratch.
- Sketches: Code files in Arduino are called sketches. This term is unique to the Arduino ecosystem and refers to the C++ code you write.
// Example of an Arduino sketch structure
void setup() {
// put your setup code here, to run once:
}
void loop() {
// put your main code here, to run repeatedly:
}This structure (setup() and loop()) is one example of the special methods added to the standard C++ environment.
The Compilation Process
The reference mentions that when you create a sketch, "it is processed and compiled to machine language." This process typically involves several steps:
- Preprocessing: The Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment) often adds necessary header files and function prototypes behind the scenes, simplifying your code.
- Compilation: The modified code, which is essentially C++, is then compiled into machine code that the microcontroller on the Arduino board can understand.
- Linking: The compiled code is linked with necessary Arduino core libraries and other libraries you might use.
- Uploading: The final machine code is uploaded to the Arduino board.
This streamlined process, including the added functions and the 'sketch' terminology, is what defines the "variant" of C++ used by Arduino.
Why a Variant?
The choice to use a variant of C++ was likely made to:
- Simplify Hardware Interaction: Provide easy-to-use functions (like
digitalWrite(),analogRead()) that abstract away complex register manipulation often required in pure microcontroller programming. - Lower the Barrier to Entry: Make programming microcontrollers accessible to artists, designers, hobbyists, and students who may not have extensive programming or electronics backgrounds.
- Standardize Development: Create a consistent framework across various Arduino boards.
| Feature | Standard C++ | Arduino (Variant of C++) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Language | C++ | C++ |
| Additions | Standard Libraries | Standard Libraries + Arduino Core Libraries (special functions/methods) |
| Code Unit | .cpp, .h files | .ino (sketches), .cpp, .h |
| Typical Use | General software, OS, Games, Embedded Systems | Microcontroller programming, Prototyping, Electronics Projects |
In essence, if you know C++, learning Arduino programming is relatively straightforward as you are already familiar with the foundational language. You just need to learn the specific Arduino libraries and the sketch structure.
