Examples on how to optimize Arduino memory usage

Optimizing memory usage on Arduino is crucial, especially when dealing with microcontrollers with limited RAM and flash memory.

Here are several strategies to help you make the most of your Arduino’s memory:

1. Use Smaller Data Types

• Use byte or uint8_t instead of int if your values range between 0 and 255.
• Use int instead of long if your values fit within -32,768 to 32,767.
• Use bool for true/false values instead of int.

2. Use PROGMEM for Constant Data

• Store constant data like strings, lookup tables, and arrays in flash memory rather than RAM using the PROGMEM keyword.
• Accessing PROGMEM data requires special functions like pgm_read_byte, pgm_read_word, etc.

#include <avr/pgmspace.h>
const char myString[] PROGMEM = "Hello, World!";

3. Optimize String Usage

• Avoid using String class for string manipulation as it can cause memory fragmentation. Use character arrays (char[]) instead.
• Use the F() macro to store string literals in flash memory:

Serial.print(F("Hello, World!"));

4. Minimize Global Variables

• Declare variables within the narrowest possible scope. Local variables are usually more memory-efficient than global variables.

5. Optimize Array Usage

• Only allocate the array size you need. Avoid oversized arrays.
• Consider dynamic memory allocation with caution (using malloc and free), as it can lead to fragmentation if not managed properly.

6. Use Efficient Libraries

• Some libraries are more memory-efficient than others. Look for optimized versions of libraries.
• Remove unused libraries and parts of the code.

7. Use Bitfields and Bitmasks

• Combine multiple boolean flags into a single byte using bitfields or bitmasks to save space.

struct {
unsigned int flag1 : 1;
unsigned int flag2 : 1;
unsigned int flag3 : 1;
} flags;

8. Free Unused Memory

• Ensure you free up any dynamically allocated memory that is no longer needed to avoid memory leaks.

9. Optimize Code and Algorithms

• Simplify algorithms to reduce memory usage.
• Replace recursive functions with iterative ones where possible.

10. Use Conditional Compilation

• Use #ifdef, #ifndef, and similar directives to include or exclude code segments based on certain conditions, helping to remove unnecessary code.

#ifdef DEBUG
Serial.print(F("Debugging mode"));
#endif11. Monitor Memory Usage

11. Monitor Memory Usage

• • Use functions to check free memory and stack usage, such as freeMemory():

extern "C" {
char* sbrk(int incr);
}

int freeMemory() {
char top;
return &top - reinterpret_cast<char*>(sbrk(0));
}

12. Minimize Interrupt Service Routines (ISRs)

• Keep ISRs short and efficient. Avoid using delay() and complex logic inside ISRs.

By applying these techniques, you can significantly optimize the memory usage of your Arduino projects, leading to more efficient and reliable code execution.