[mbanzi]

Alternatively one could use the Arduino API on the beaglebone with https://github.com/prpplague/Userspace-Arduino

It would make the whole thing less scary for beginners and there are tons of examples and documentation out there.

[mcconnma]

that is interesting, not sure if it is any easier than compiling some of the examples I provide, but it does open Linux platforms to those that know wiring, thanks.