1) Board not detected (Arduino / ESP32)

1. Try another USB cable/port: some cables are charge-only.
2. Install the right USB driver:
   • CP210x (Silicon Labs)
   • CH341 (WCH)
3. Unplug & replug the board, then reopen Arduino IDE.
4. Check Tools → Port for a new COM (Windows) or /dev/tty.* (Mac/Linux).

2) Upload fails

• Pick the right board: Tools → Board (e.g., Arduino Uno, ESP32 Dev Module).
• Pick the right port: Tools → Port (unplug/plug to see which one appears).
• Close Serial Monitor: only one app can use the port.
• ESP32 tip: “Failed to connect”? Hold BOOT, click Upload, release when it says “Connecting…”. If needed, tap EN/RST once.

3) No port shown

• Swap the USB cable and try another USB port.
• Install/repair the driver (CP210x or CH341) and restart the IDE.
• macOS: Allow blocked drivers in System Settings → Privacy & Security.
• Windows: Try a different port on the PC (avoid flaky hubs).

4) ESP32 not set up in Arduino IDE

1. File → Preferences.
2. Add to Additional Boards Manager URLs:
   https://dl.espressif.com/dl/package_esp32_index.json
3. Tools → Board → Boards Manager… → search ESP32 → Install.

5) Raspberry Pi won’t boot

• Use the proper power supply (USB-C for newer models, 5V ≥ 3A).
• Re-image the microSD with Raspberry Pi Imager and safely eject.
• Make sure the card is seated and HDMI is connected before power-on.
• Try a different microSD card if you have one.

6) Quick checklists

Arduino / ESP32

• Correct board selected
• Correct port selected
• USB cable supports data
• Driver installed: CP210x or CH341
• Serial Monitor closed during upload

Raspberry Pi

• microSD imaged with Raspberry Pi OS
• Power supply meets spec
• HDMI + keyboard (or SSH enabled)

7) Safe classroom habits

• Hold boards by the edges; keep drinks away.
• Ask before installing software or changing settings.
• Label your USB cable and microSD so they don’t wander.