[Solution] Fixing avrdude: stk500_getsync() Attempt 10 of 10: Not in Sync: Resp=0x0 Error

 [Solution] Fixing avrdude: stk500_getsync() Attempt 10 of 10: Not in Sync: Resp=0x0 Error

When working with Arduino or similar microcontrollers, you may encounter the error message:

avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 10 of 10: not in sync: resp=0x0

This error typically occurs when attempting to upload a sketch to your Arduino board via the Arduino IDE. It can be frustrating as it prevents you from flashing your code onto the board. In this blog, we will explore why this error happens and how to resolve it.

Why Does This Error Occur?

The avrdude: stk500_getsync() error is related to a communication issue between your computer and the Arduino board. This can happen for several reasons:

1. Incorrect COM Port: The selected COM port in the Arduino IDE may not be the one your board is connected to.
2. Wrong Board Selected: The wrong Arduino board type might be selected in the Arduino IDE.
3. Faulty USB Cable or Port: Sometimes, a faulty USB cable or USB port can interrupt communication between the board and your computer.
4. Bootloader Issue: The bootloader on your Arduino may have become corrupted.
5. Incompatible Drivers: Missing or outdated drivers for your Arduino board can prevent proper communication.

Steps to Fix the avrdude: stk500_getsync() Error

Follow these troubleshooting steps to resolve the error:

1. Check the COM Port

• Open the Arduino IDE.
• Go to Tools > Port and ensure that the correct COM port is selected (the one your Arduino is connected to). If you're unsure, unplug the board, check which ports appear, plug the board back in, and see which new port shows up.
• If you're using macOS or Linux, the port may appear as /dev/ttyUSB0 or /dev/cu.usbmodemXXXX, depending on the system.

2. Select the Correct Board

• In the Arduino IDE, go to Tools > Board and make sure that the correct board type (e.g., Arduino Uno, Arduino Nano, etc.) is selected.
• Sometimes, the error can occur if the board is not correctly identified or if you select the wrong one.

3. Check USB Cable and Port

• Try using a different USB cable. Ensure that it’s a data cable, not just a charging cable, as some cables only support charging and not data transfer.
• Plug the Arduino into a different USB port on your computer, ideally a direct port on the motherboard (avoid USB hubs if possible).

4. Reset the Arduino Board

• Some Arduino boards, like the Arduino Uno, need to be manually reset before uploading a sketch. To do this:
  • Press and hold the reset button on your board just before you hit the Upload button in the Arduino IDE.
  • Release the reset button when the IDE starts uploading the sketch.
• For boards like the Arduino Mega, resetting may not be necessary, but it's worth trying if the error persists.

5. Update Drivers (Windows Only)

• If you're on Windows, make sure the appropriate drivers for your board are installed.
  • You can download official drivers from the Arduino website or use the Device Manager to update the drivers.
  • Right-click on the Arduino device in Device Manager and choose Update driver.
• For boards with CH340 chips (often used in clones), you may need to install additional drivers. Visit the manufacturer's website for the correct driver.

6. Check the Bootloader

• A corrupted bootloader can prevent the board from communicating with the IDE.
• To check the bootloader, try uploading a simple sketch like Blink to see if it uploads successfully.
• If you suspect the bootloader is corrupted, you may need to re-burn the bootloader using another Arduino (or a dedicated programmer) following this procedure:
  • Use Arduino as ISP to burn the bootloader onto the board.

7. Use a Different Arduino IDE Version

• Occasionally, the error might be related to a bug or compatibility issue with the Arduino IDE version you’re using.
• Try switching to an older or newer version of the Arduino IDE to see if that resolves the issue.

8. Disable Serial Monitor

• If the Serial Monitor is open while uploading a sketch, it can interfere with the uploading process.
• Close the Serial Monitor before attempting to upload the sketch.

9. Try Using a Different Computer

• If none of the above steps resolve the issue, try using a different computer to upload the sketch. This can help rule out issues with the USB drivers or the computer's configuration.

Conclusion

The avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 10 of 10: not in sync: resp=0x0 error can be a bit tricky to resolve, but with patience and careful troubleshooting, you should be able to get your Arduino board communicating correctly with the IDE again.

By following the steps outlined in this blog—checking the COM port, selecting the correct board, using a good USB cable, and ensuring the bootloader is intact—you should be able to upload sketches without further issues.

If the error persists, don’t hesitate to consult the Arduino community forums for more specific solutions related to your particular board and configuration.

Happy coding!