Drum machine programming can be done (depending on the machine) in real-time: the user creates drum patterns by pressing the trigger pads as though a drum kit were being played, or using step-sequencing: the pattern is built up over time by adding individual sounds at certain points by placing them, as with the TR-808 and TR-909 along a 16 step bar. For example, a '4 to the floor' generic dance pattern could be made by placing a closed high hat on the 3, 7, 11, and 15th steps. Then a kick drum on the 1, 5, 7, and 13th steps with a clap on the 5 and 13th. This pattern could be varied in a multitude of ways to obtain fills, break-downs and other elements that the programmer sees fit, which in turn can be sequenced- essentially the drum machine plays back the programmed patterns from memory in an order the programmer has chosen.

If the drum machine has MIDI In and Out connectivity, then one could program the drum machine with a computer or other MIDI device.