When I try to program the Atom w/ Basic Micro IDE, I get the message “ATOM must be connected to compile/program/debug” I’ve tried everything that I know of (baud rate, fresh battery, jumpers) but it won’t connect! Any suggestions???
What IDE version are you running?
Serial Port or USB to serial cable?
Green LED light up on the Bot Board?
IDE ver 02.2.1.1, serial cable, green light is on.
Have you successfully programmed this Atom processor before this? Are you sure the chip is installed into the socket properly (not backwards)? Have you tried programming it from another PC?
No and no!
Hmmm… I asked you three questions. 
Either way I try to interpret your response I’m not sure the chip is installed properly. The big IC on the Atom chip is at the opposite end as pin 1 on the module. Can you make sure it’s inserted into the socket correctly? Also, is the speaker enabled, and do you hear any clicking sounds from the speaker? If yes, this is good as it’s the program that is used to test the Atom when programmed from the factory. If you don’t hear the clicks then there is a problem with the Atom chip.
I don’t understand the attitude, I’m doing my best to help you.
Sorry, just frustrated that’s all. The orientation of the Atom that you described is different then what I have… so I turned it around and now I have sucess, thanks for your help.