In order to connect the external thermocouple that we ordered to the Arduino Red Board, we need some kind of add-on interface, known as shield, as the UNO Red Board itself doesn’t provide such utility. Basically, shields are interchangeable add-on modules that can be connected to the micro-controller to facilitate programming and incorporate into other circuits. The shield that we’ll use is called the TC4 that is specially used in connecting thermocouples to the Arduino. Below is the typical wiring diagram for temperature control using the TC4 platform:
A sample wiring diagram
TC4 shield schematic
We ordered this part on the following link: http://www.mlgp-llc.com/arduino/public/arduino-pcb.html
We decided to order the TC4-KIT package, which includes the PCB with surface mount chips pre-soldered, MCP3424, MCP9800, 24LC512 EEPROM, S1AB-13-F diode, surface mount resistors, capacitors, and LED’s. It also has all loose hardware required to complete the board and the price for the whole package is very reasonable.
TC4-KIT package components
While we are waiting for this to arrive, please study the TC4 schematic. Identify all of the functions on the board (A/D converter, EEPROM, etc) and write the definitions of each. Which of these will be connected to the thermocouple? Which will be connected to the Arduino board? Draw a simple schematic, treating the TC4 as a “black box”, and show how you will connect it to other components that we have ordered or that we already have.