# Arduino & Touchdesigner You can connect your arduino to TD to send & receive data # Various tutorials connecting TD & Arduino (no firmata) # Using Firmata ### What is Firmata? **Firmata** is a protocol for communicating with microcontrollers (like Arduino) from software on a computer, using a standardized messaging format over serial communication (usually USB). It allows you to **control and read from Arduino pins in real-time**, without needing to constantly upload new Arduino sketches. - **Firmata** is like a translator that is programmed on the Arduino. - You upload a **Firmata sketch** once to the Arduino. - Then, you can control the Arduino **live from TouchDesigner (or other software like Isadora, Max/MSP or Processing)** without reprogramming it. - Be aware that is is resource heavier the programming your Arduino with specific code for the goal you want to achieve, Nice for prototyping though!