Programing an Atiny85 with Arduino UNO

This blog is includes the simplest method for using any an Arduino UNO, (or other another Arduino) as a programmer for the Atiny85. It covers 5 simple steps, and fixes to common issues

Step 2 – Arduino IDE Setup

First, of all make sure you have ONLY 1 Arduino IDE window open, as having multiple will result in errors. On the top left, go to file → preferences → additional board manager URL, and paste this link:
https://raw.githubusercontent.com/damellis/attiny/ide-1.6.x-boards-manager/package_damellis_attiny_index.json

• Once you have added it, connect your Arduino UNO – Atiny85 contraption to your pc via cable. In tools → board, select your Arduino UNO, and in tools, press the “Burn Bootloader” option at the bottom.
• Go to file → examples→ Arduino ISP ; this should open a new Arduino IDE window. Make sure to close your other IDE window so the ISP example is the only thing you have open. Upload the code to the Arduino UNO. Your screen should look like this

• Close this window, and re-open Arduino IDE

Step 3 – Demo Code

As a demo-code, to make sure everything is running, we will have the onboard LED of the ATtiny85 blink rapidly. Here is the sample code that you should paste in the IDE editor:

void setup() {
pinMode(1, OUTPUT); // P1
}
void loop() {
digitalWrite(1, HIGH);
delay(250);
digitalWrite(1, LOW);
delay(250);
}

Now, you should see something like this:

Step 4 – Uploading Code

if you followed all the steps carefully, you’re ATtiny85’s LED should now be blinking! From this point, you can add your own code, and make your own projects!