Problems with SainSmart MEGA 2560

Question

I was recently given a SainSmart MEGA 2560 board from an instructor at my school. It was just sitting around on a shelf in his office and he wasn't sure if it worked or not. When I asked about the board he tossed it over to me and said I could have it and that he wasn't sure if it worked or not. When connecting the board to my computer it powered up, but it's not recognizable on any of my ports. I opened the Arduino IDE and again I'm having the same issue. Does anyone know if there is a way to fix this or is this board no longer operational? I appreciate any and all help/suggestions. Thank you.

BigG · Answer

I've had similar problems before with other arduino boards. The issue often lies with the serial to USB chip used. If this is non standard maybe the last comment in that arduino forums post would offer guidance (How to Fix Bad Chinese Arduino Clones: 7 Steps (with Pictures) )

Otherwise I assume when asked to choose driver you let your W10 PC auto search subfolders. I note with my drivers folder (see image) there is a compressed zip folder which says "old arduino drivers". Maybe there's something compatible in there. Best of luck.

BigG · Answer

Found this old post on Arduino forums for you. May be of help re fixing drivers Solution for Itead mega 2560 not recognized by USB

Problems with SainSmart MEGA 2560

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