Mega 2560 PRO MINI, ATmega2560-16AU
Overview
The Mega 2560 PRO Mini is the smallest possible Mega 2560-class board — 38 × 52 mm, with no onboard USB controller. Programming is done through an external USB-TTL adapter (FTDI, CH340G, CP2102 — any will work) connected to the FTDI header.
This makes it ideal for embedded projects where USB is unnecessary, where you want to save space, or where the USB chip would draw too much current in battery applications.
Why Skip Onboard USB?
- Smaller PCB footprint (vs. PRO Embed)
- Lower idle power (no USB controller drawing current)
- Better for permanent installations — once programmed, no need for the USB chip
- Cheaper than the Embed version
Programming
You need a USB-TTL adapter (3.3V or 5V tolerant). Connect:
| FTDI Adapter | Mega 2560 PRO Mini |
|---|---|
| TX | RX0 |
| RX | TX0 |
| DTR | DTR |
| GND | GND |
| VCC (5V) | VCC |
In Arduino IDE: Tools → Board → Arduino Mega 2560. Upload as normal — the bootloader auto-resets via the DTR line.
Related Products
- Mega 2560 PRO Embed — same MCU with onboard CH340G USB
Documentation
- Pinout PDF — coming soon
- FTDI wiring diagram — coming soon