2.1 Xplained Mini Quick Start

Steps to start exploring the Xplained Mini platform:
  1. Download Atmel Studio/MPLAB® X IDE.
  2. Launch Atmel Studio/MPLAB® X.
  3. Connect a USB cable (Standard-A to Micro-B or Micro-AB) between the PC and the USB port on the kit.

When the Xplained Mini kit is connected to your computer for the first time, the operating system will perform a driver software installation. The driver file supports both 32- and 64-bit versions of Microsoft® Windows® XP, Windows Vista®, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10. The drivers for the kit are included with Atmel Studio/MPLAB® X.

Once the Xplained Mini board is powered, the green status LED will blink, and Atmel Studio/MPLAB® X will autodetect which Xplained Mini board is connected. Atmel Studio/MPLAB® X will present relevant information like data sheets and kit documentation. The ATmega328P device is programmed and debugged by the on-board Mini Embedded Debugger and, therefore, no external programmer or debugger tool is required.