0 Using the Arduino Pro Mini

1. In order to use the Arduino Pro Mini you will first need to connect  the FTDI Basic Breakout board so that you can connect the Arduino to your computer through a USB port. I physically soldered my FTDI board to the Arduino by cutting off the socket that came with it and soldering the remaining pins into the Arduino.
2. Plug your Arduino into the computer using a USB TYPE A to USB MINI B cable. You may see windows installing drivers if you have not used this board before. You will also need to download the Arduino software from their website (www.arduino.cc).
3. Run the software and choose the correct board type by going to Tools --> Board and select Arduino Nano w/ ATmega 328
4. Now you can connect an LED between the ground (GND) and pin 13 on the board. Run this test program to make sure it works. The LED should flash on and off repeatedly. If that does not happen disconnect the Arduino from the computer immediately and examine your solder connections.
5. Under the tools menu select the correct board (Arduino Duemilanovo w/ ATmega328).

// TEST PROGRAM:

int ledPin = 13;              // LED connected to digital pin 13

void setup() {

  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);    // sets the digital pin as output

}

void loop() {

  digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH); // sets the LED on

  delay(1000);                // waits for a second

  digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);  // sets the LED off

  delay(1000);                // waits for a second

}

See my review of the Arduino pro Mini here:
http://robotrecycled.blogspot.com/2012/09/arduino-pro-328-mini-review.html.