S4A - Scratch for Arduino

S4A - Scratch for Arduino is an open-source software tool for Linux. It adds Arduino-specific blocks for managing sensors and actuators connected to compatible Arduino boards. The blocks allow interactions to be arranged through user events, connecting physical board activity with Scratch-based programs. A sensors report board provides a separate view for presenting sensor readings.

The software supports Arduino Diecimila, Duemilanove, and Uno boards. Other Arduino boards are untested, although they may also work. Supported connections include six analog inputs, two digital inputs on pins 2 and 3, and three analog outputs on pins 5, 6, and 9. It also includes three digital outputs on pins 10, 11, and 13, plus four special outputs on pins 4, 7, 8, and 12 for Parallax continuous rotation servomotors.

Boards can be managed over USB, and multiple boards can be used up to the number of available USB ports. Wireless management is also possible with an RF module such as Xbee. Before uploading code over USB on Linux, the user must add their account to the dialout group, connect the snap to the raw-usb socket, and restart the computer. The required firmware must be uploaded to the Arduino board before the software can upload code over USB.

MirrorNest distributes the official build directly from its own storage rather than describing a separate modified edition. Each mirrored file is scanned for malware before publishing. Classified under System Tools for Linux, S4A - Scratch for Arduino fits the catalog as a downloadable utility for working with Arduino hardware through sensor, actuator, and event-based controls.