Specifications:

The MKR Proto Shield is designed specifically for use with MKR boards, facilitating easy prototyping by providing a straightforward way to connect to all pins on the board.

• Digital I/O Pins: 21
• PWM Digital I/O Pins: The number depends on the board it’s used with.
• Analog Input Pins: 7
• Analog Output Pins: This also depends on the MKR board.
• DC Current per I/O Pin: Determined by the specific MKR board.
• DC Current for 3.3V Pin: Board-dependent.
• DC Current for 5V Pin: Board-dependent.
• Length: 61.5 mm
• Width: 25 mm
• Weight: 13 g

The shield allows for duplicate breakouts for each pin on the board along with many solderable through-holes on a standard 0.1” (2.54mm) grid, making it ideal for creating prototypes or projects that require additional components beyond the MKR board itself.

Learning Resources:

MKR Proto Shield Documentation

Applications and Projects:

The MKR ProtoShield is a versatile tool for Arduino projects, allowing for easy prototyping and integration with various sensors, actuators, and modules. Here are some of project examples that illustrate its wide range of applications:

• Data Logging with MKR SD Proto Shield: This project focuses on using the MKR SD Proto Shield for data logging purposes. The goal is to read data from analog pins of an MKR family board, store this data on an SD card, and later view the data using a text editor on a computer. This setup is ideal for projects where you need to log environmental data like temperature or humidity over time without continuous access to a computer or the internet. You’ll need the Arduino IDE, SD library, a formatted micro SD card, and, of course, the MKR SD Proto Shield along with an MKR board.
• Automatic Plant Watering System: Leveraging the Arduino IoT Cloud, this project uses an AM2301A temperature and humidity sensor along with the MKR1000 and a relay Proto Shield to automatically water plants based on soil moisture levels. The data from the sensor can also be displayed on a 20×4 I2C LCD mounted on the project box, giving you real-time feedback on the environment of your plants. This project not only automates plant watering but also provides valuable insights into the conditions of your garden, making it a smart gardening solution.
• Controlling a Lamp with MKR Relay Proto Shield: In this project, a simple web server is created on the MKR1000, which, along with the MKR Relay Proto Shield, is used to control a desktop lamp. The setup allows for setting an alarm on the RTC (Real-Time Clock) that, when matched, activates the relay to turn on the lamp for a specified duration. This project demonstrates how the MKR ProtoShield can be used to interface with home appliances and create smart home solutions.