We all get stuck sometimes. Where do you turn if your project just isn't working?
The Hackster staff can't provide assistance with specific hardware or projects, but here's what we recommend:
Read the manual and/or check the online documentation.
Search the official product forums for threads about your dilemma.
Find a similar project on Hackster, and ask the author in the comments β so everyone can learn the solution! Use the exact text of any error messages you're getting.
Subscribe to the platform on Hackster, so you'll see if someone posts a related project later.
Head to your local makerspace with your project! You might just find the perfect person to help.
Plus, the usual troubleshooting steps...
Google the exact text of the error
Power connected? Battery good? Switched on?
Correct resistor values?
Do you need a common ground?
Is your LED backwards?
NPN or PNP?
Are your solder connections secure? (Especially if you're getting inconsistent results)
Double-check each pin of your IC: are all connections are in place?
Check for shorts (both kinds ;) )
Don't set your microcontroller on a static-proof bag!
Is the monitor powered on?
Volume up?
Are the right Arduino board and USB port selected?
Update your software
Is the tutorial from 2009?
Mercilessly check and re-check for typos, semicolons, closed brackets/parentheses
Talk your rubber duck through the problem
Have you tried turning it off and on again...?
Best of luck :)