Nova is A RP2040-based Board with Integrated 7×10 LED Matrix for Compact Projects

Nova is a compact and versatile RP2040-based board with an integrated 7×10 addressable LED matrix, designed to bring high performance and creativity to small-scale projects.  It is ideal for creating vibrant, dynamic displays with ease. With a USB Type-C port for modern connectivity and the power of the RP2040 for peripherals, NOVA is perfect for makers, engineers, and hobbyists working on custom light shows, wearables, and interactive installations. The small size and high functionality allow flawless integration into space-constrained projects, making it a flexible and better choice for DIY electronics enthusiasts.

It features a dual-core RP2040 microcontroller, a vibrant LED matrix for colourful visual feedback, and expandable GPIO pins for connecting sensors and actuators. Its ultra-compact, durable 4-layer PCB design ensures reliability and flexibility, while wide compatibility with MicroPython and Arduino IDE simplifies programming. It has various power options, making it suitable for prototyping and final builds.

Nova is designed for durability, using lead-free, RoHS-compliant components that offer long-lasting performance while minimizing environmental harm. Its recyclable packaging and eco-friendly materials are used to minimize waste, and sustainable factories and fulfilment services are partnered with to further lower its environmental impact. Efforts like energy-efficient manufacturing and carbon-neutral shipping are engaged to reflect our commitment to a greener future.

We have previously covered some similar RP2040-based boards like the RPGA Feather, the ILabs’ RP2040 Connectivity Board with u-blox SARA-R412M, the Waveshare RP2040-PiZero, and many more. Feel free to check those out, if you are interested in this topic.

Nova RP2040-based LED Matrix Board Specifications:

• Microcontroller: Dual-core RP2040 chip with 133 MHz clock speed
• Display: 7×10 addressable RGB LED matrix (70 LEDs, 1mm x 1mm each)
• Memory: 264 KB SRAM
• Storage: 2 MB QSPI
• PCB Design: 4-layer PCB for durability and compactness
• USB: USB-C connector for power and data
• Expansion:
  • 2x 12-pin header with 20 Multifunctional GPIO Pins
  • 2x SPI
  • 2x I2C
  • 2x UART
  • 4x ADC
  • Vin and GND
• Misc:
  • Reset and BOOT buttons
• Power Supply:
  • Input Power: 3.3V and 5V via USB-C port and 7V-18V via Vin pin
  • Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• Power Consumption: 9 Watts with all LEDs at full brightness
• Dimensions: 20mm x 32mm
• Weight: 4.76g with headers and 3g without headers
• Operating temperature: -20°C to 85°C
• Environmental Compliance: RoHS-compliant, lead-free, and recyclable materials

After the campaign, Nova will share all schematics and design files on GitHub, allowing the community to access, modify, and build upon them. It is available on Kickstarter for a $8,164 funding target. You can buy it for $3,151 by pledging for bundles of up to 10 boards, reducing the cost per unit. Shipping fees range from $3.5 to $50.41, depending on the destination, with rewards expected to ship by January 2025.

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