Specifications:

The Arduino MKR MEM Shield is designed to extend the storage capabilities of Arduino MKR boards, making it ideal for projects requiring additional memory. Here are the key technical specifications:

• Storage Capacity: The shield includes 2MB of serial flash memory for data storage or over-the-air (OTA) updates. Additionally, it has a microSD card slot for further expansion, allowing for several gigabytes of storage which is perfect for data logging and storing larger files.
• Interface: It uses the SPI interface for communication, which is a common standard for peripheral connections, ensuring compatibility and ease of integration with the Arduino ecosystem.
• Operating Voltage: The shield operates at 3.3V, aligning with the voltage levels of the MKR family boards, which helps in seamless integration and avoiding any voltage compatibility issues.
• Compatibility: It’s specifically designed for the MKR family of Arduino boards, ensuring a perfect fit and compatibility across various models like MKR 1000 WiFi, MKR GSM 1400, MKR WAN 1300, and more. This wide compatibility makes it a versatile choice for expanding the capabilities of your MKR board.

This shield is particularly useful for IoT (Internet of Things) applications or projects where data capture and storage are crucial. Its inclusion of both flash memory and a microSD card slot offers flexibility in handling data, whether for immediate use or for later analysis. The ability to perform OTA updates is a significant advantage, allowing for firmware updates without the need for a physical connection to a computer.

Learning Resources:

MKR MEM Shield Documentation

Getting Started with the MKR MEM Shield

Applications and Projects:

The Arduino MKR MEM Shield offers a wide range of applications, particularly in projects where additional memory and storage are crucial. Here are some examples and use cases where this shield can be particularly beneficial:

• IoT (Internet of Things) Devices: The MKR MEM Shield is perfect for IoT applications that require data capture and storage. Its ability to easily add microSD storage and flash memory to an MKR board makes it an ideal companion for complex IoT devices. Whether you’re developing a device that monitors environmental conditions, a smart home gadget, or a wearable device, the MKR MEM Shield provides the necessary storage solutions for logging data collected over time.
• Data Logging: A specific example of a project utilizing the MKR MEM Shield is automatically taking water samples to collect waterborne DNA, also known as eDNA. In this scenario, the shield can be used to store sampled data from sensors measuring water flow, pressure, and temperature. The flexibility to store data on both the microSD card and the flash memory makes it a versatile choice for various data logging applications.
• Educational Projects: Educators and students can benefit from using the MKR MEM Shield in classroom projects. From simple experiments that teach the basics of data collection and analysis to more complex projects involving environmental monitoring or even basic robotics, the shield provides a platform for storing and managing large volumes of data.
• Professional Projects: Professionals looking for a compact and efficient way to manage data in their projects can also leverage the MKR MEM Shield. Whether it’s for prototyping new products, creating demos, or developing solutions that require temporary data storage before transmission, the shield’s additional memory and storage capabilities open up a plethora of possibilities.