Well first you have to learn the Arduino programming language. And the stdlib.

They don't call it C++ because that sounds too difficult. But it's literally, not like a simplified subset that compiles into an IL using a formally proven tool, but as in literally compiled using GCC as, C++.

Calling it c++ might give the wrong impression to some people too, since it doesn't have the STL, rtti, or exceptions for boards like the Uno r3.

It is c++ though. Just limited in similar ways to the US air force's requirements for using the language.

it's literally the hello world of micros. get an arduino, plug it into the usb, install the ide, new -> example -> 01. Blink. Press Run. Cool you have now blunk a led. Now use AI to draw the rest of the owl.

It's easy once you've done it - but before you've done it (for me at least) it was much easier to just install a Linux on a Pi and run a bash script than to learn how to program an Arduino.

(Of course, there are those to whom an Arduino is an overpriced piece of junk and they don't understand how I can't solder a three cent chip myself.)

But let's be realistic - all of these things are like my Steam library - purchases made but never used (I have a drawer full of Pis and other SBCs, and Arduino dev kits, etc. Someday I'll have time time time!).

It's C++, and basically what Arduino gives you is

  int main() {
    setup();
    for(;;) loop();
  }

As well as a GUI to easily flash devices and view the output from the serial port, as well as import libraries that do all of the hard work like say making a serial port on any microcontroller pin or control external devices like light strips or displays.

I'd assume the average user on HN should be able to figure it out pretty easily.

Good thing LLMs exist now