The Adafruit Metro ESP32-S3 is a development board based on the ESP32-S3, designed in a form factor similar to an Arduino UNO or Adafruit Metro. The board features built-in Wi-Fi Bluetooth capabilities and can be programmed with Arduino or Circuit Python.
The core of the board is an ESP32-S3 microcontroller, which includes a dual-core LX7 processor clocked at 240 MHz. Additionally, it has integrated 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth5(LE), secure boot, and flash encryption features. In terms of memory, it boasts 16 MB Flash and 8 MB PSRAM, supports full-speed USB OTG, and has efficient low-power management for various applications.
The board comes with two STEMMA QT I2C connectors for further IO expansion, a JTAG header for debugging, a microSD card for extended storage, and a two-pin LiPo connector with an integrated battery protection feature. The board is primarily powered by a 5V USB-C connector but there is also this barrel jack for a max of 12V input power.
When it comes to software, the board can be programmed with Circuit Python but you can also program this board with Arduino IDE and ESP-IDF. You can find all the hardware guide and software installation guides on Adafruit’s website. The most fun thing about this board is that the board allows for the installation ofLinux, for which Adafruit provides a dedicated guide.
Adafruit Metro ESP32-S3 Key Specification:
Wireless Module: ESP32-S3-WROOM-1.
Processor: ESP32-S3 dual-core LX7, up to 240 MHz, with Vector extension for machine learning.
Memory: 8MB PSRAM.
Storage: 16MB SPI flash; MicroSD card slot.
Connectivity: WiFi 4, Bluetooth 5 with LE/Mesh; PCB antenna.
Certifications: FCC/CE.
USB: USB Type-C for power and programming.
Expansion Options:
Arduino UNO-compatible headers.
STEMMA QT connector for I2C devices (with power switch).
Debugging Tools:
Serial via USB-C.
10-pin JTAG header.
Optional serial debug output pins.
Additional Features:
Reset and DFU buttons for ROM bootloader access.
LEDs (On/Charge/User) and status NeoPixel with controlled power.
Power Supply:
6V-12V DC via DC jack.
5V via USB Type-C.
LiPo battery support with charging over USB-C; MAX17048 I2C battery monitoring chip.
Power Consumption: Deep sleep mode uses ~100uA from a LiPo battery.
Dimensions: 72 x 53.2 x 14.8mm (Arduino UNO form factor).
A few months back Adafruit the Rev A of the Metro ESP32-S3 board, but it had an issue where they shared signals between the PSRAM, NeoPixel RGB LED, and SPI/SD card pins. That caused malfunctions when these particular features were used together. So Adafruit now offering replacements for those who bought the board before November 8.
You can purchase the Rev B of the board on Adafruit for $24.99 which does not include shipping.
The LR1302 is a new and advanced LoRa gateway module with a mini PCIe form factor. Powered by Semtech’s SX1302 chip, this device can achieve high performance with low power consumption. It can handle 8-channel data transmission, which makes it suitable for applications like industrial automation and smart city management.
At the core of the module, we have the Semtech Network’s SX1302LoRaWAN chip that surpasses its predecessors (SX1301 and SX1308) in terms of better sensitivity, lower power consumption, and reduced operating temperature.
The LR1302 module is compatible with EU868 (863-870MHz) and US915 (902-928MHz) all credit to the Semtech SX1302 Chip. It features a sensitivity of -125dBm @125K/SF7 and -139dBm @125K/SF12, with TX power of 26 dBm for EU868 and 25 dBm for US915, while operating on a 3.3V power supply.
The LR1302 module features 8-channel data transmission which becomes a must-have where there is a need for high throughput. The device operates at ultra-low operating temperature which removes the need for extra cooling. Additionally, it complies with CE and FCC certifications, streamlining the certification process for products.
The LR1302 module is a small, compact device with a mini PCIe interface with 52 pins. It comes in two versions, SPI and USB, each with different power usage. this device has a wide operating range which ranges from -40°C to 85°C, so it can adapt well to diverse environmental conditions.
LR1302 LoRaWAN Gateway Features:
Chipset: Semtech SX1302
Frequency Bands: 863-870MHz (EU868), 902-928MHz (US915)
TXPower: 26 dBm (EU868), 25 dBm (US915) with 3.3V supply
Power Consumption: Standby – 7.5 mA, TX max – 415 mA, RX – 40 mA
Connectivity: 1x U.FL antenna connector
Indicators: 3 status LEDs
Features: LBT (Listen Before Talk) support
Operating Temperature: -40°C to 85°C
Physical Size: 30 mm × 50.95 mm, Mini PCIe form-factor, 52-pin connector
The LR1302 LoRaWAN Gateway Module is priced at $23.90. As of now, only the EU868 version is in stock. Note that the module does not come with the LoRaWAN HAT for the Raspberry Pi. The Wiki page provides more information on the setup process.
The Digital-to-Analogue Converter (DAC) are opposite of the Analogue-to-Digital Converter. It employs a method by which binary digital signals are transformed into analogue signals. With its output (voltage or current) proportionate to the value of its digital input number, DACs transform binary or non-binary numbers and codes into analogue ones.
Conversion of digital to analogue (DAC) is a method by which binary digital signals are transformed into analogue signals, which have an endless number of possible states. For example, a 4-bit digital logic circuit converts 00002 to 11112 (F0 to F15), wherein a voltage output ranging from 0 to 10V is produced by the DAC.
There are several ways to convert an “n”-bit digital input code into an equivalent analogue output voltage between 0 and some VMAX value, but the most popular and simple conversion techniques use an operational amplifier and a resistor ladder network, or weighted resistors and a summing amplifier.
The weights determined by the resistive values employed in the ladder networks provide a varied “weighted” amount to the signals generated in both digital-to-analogue conversion methods, which result in a weighted sum output.
Operational Amplifiers
Negative feedback reduces and controls the extremely high open-loop gain (AOL) of operational amplifiers, for this purpose inverting op-amp circuit is used. A tiny portion of the output signal is sent back to the input terminal to accomplish this.
The input voltage VIN of the amplifier is linked directly to its inverting input through an appropriate input resistor RIN. The closed-loop voltage gain, AV(CL), of an inverting amplifier is given by the ratio of these two resistors, as indicated.
Figure 1: Inverter Operational Amplifier Circuit
From the above fig, we see that VO is calculated by multiplying VIN by the closed-loop Gain (ACL), which is based on the input resistance (RIN) divided by the feedback resistance (RF). Therefore, we may modify the closed-loop gain of the op-amp and, the value of VO (IF*RF) for a given input signal by adjusting the values of either RF or RIN.
The aforementioned instance of an inverting operational amplifier uses a single input voltage signal. However, what would happen to the circuit and its gain if we introduced another input resistor for combining two or more analogue signals into a single output?
The single input circuit above may be changed into a summing amplifier, or more specifically, a “summing inverting voltage amplifier” circuit, by connecting numerous inputs to the operational amplifier’s negative end.
Any input signals are essentially electrically separated from one another because the feedback resistor’s RF negative feedback sets the op-amp’s inverting input at zero potential. The output, then, is the inverted sum of all the input signals. As a result, when a summing amplifier is in the inverting mode, it generates the negative sum of all input voltages, but when it is not inverting, it generates the positive output. Examine the circuit below.
Figure 2: Summing Amplifier Circuit
We may adjust the initial equation for the inverting amplifier arrangement above to account for these four additional input values as follows: In the summing amplifier circuit above, the output voltage (VO) is proportional to the sum of the four input voltages, VIN1, VIN2, VIN3, and VIN4.
Then, when each input voltage is multiplied by its matching gain and added to the subsequent one to get the total output, we can see that the output voltage is an inverted, scaled sum of the four input voltages.
Each input channel will have a closed-loop voltage gain of unity (1) if all the resistances are the same and have similar values, that is, RF = R1 = R2 = R3 = R4. As a result, the output voltage can be found easily by the mentioned equation:
A 4-bit binary weighted digital-to-analogue converter can be created by assuming that the four inputs of the summing amplifier are binary inputs with voltage values of either 0 or 5 volts (“Low-0” and “High-1”) and by doubling the resistive values of each input resistor to the previous one. This will result in an output condition that would be the weighted sum of these four input voltages.
With the four input resistors ranging from 1kΩ to 8kΩ (or multiples thereof), we may build a straightforward 4-bit binary weighted analogue-to-digital converter circuit as illustrated by labelling the four summing inputs as A, B, C, and D and setting RF = 1kΩ.
There are 24 = 16 possible combinations for a 4-bit binary number, ranging from 00002 to 11112. 8-4-2-1 is the binary coding ratio that results from doubling the weight of each input bit to the previous one.
Figure 3: 4-Bit Binary weighted Digital to Analogue Converter
The transfer characteristic of the 4-bit binary weighted digital-to-analogue converter would therefore be as follows if we set the input resistances for “D” at 1kΩ, “C” at 2kΩ (i.e., the double of D), “B” at 4kΩ (double of C), and “A” at 8kΩ (double of B), with the feedback resistance (RF) set at 1kΩ as shown in the figure above,
If we apply a TTL voltage of +5 volts (logic “1”) to the summing amplifier’s input VD, which represents the most significant bit (MSB), we see that the gain of the op-amp will be RF/R4 = 1kΩ/1kΩ = 1 (unity) VD, Therefore, the output of the digital-to-analogue converter circuit will be -5 volts when a 4-bit binary code of 1000 is applied.
Similarly, if the input VC of the summing amplifier receives +5 volts (logic 1), the gain of the op-amp is equal to RF/R3 = 1kΩ/2kΩ = 1/2 (one-half). Therefore, the analogue output voltage of -2.5 volts would be produced by the 4-bit binary code 0100.
When Logic “1” is applied to the VB, the gain of the amplifier will be RF/R2 = 1kΩ/4kΩ = ¼ (one-fourth). Hence, the 4-bit binary code of 0010 will produce an output voltage of -1.25 volts.
Ultimately, when logic “1” is applied to the least significant bit (LSB) input of the summing amplifier VA, It would result in an output voltage of -0.625 volts (a 12.5% resolution) and RF/R1 = 1kΩ/8kΩ = 1/8 (one-eighth) with the 4-bit binary code of 0001.
The mentioned table will give the detailed result of VO when +5 volts is applied to 4-bit binary weighted analogue-to-digital converter.
From the above values, we observed that, for each bit changed, there would be a difference of 0.625 volts.
The resolution of the analogue output voltage for a binary-weighted digital-to-analogue converter may be enhanced by increasing the number of binary digits and the resistive summing network such that each resistor has a separate weighting.
For instance, an 8-bit DAC with +5 input volts; will produce (1/128)*5 = 0.0039, similarly, a 12-bit DAC will result in (1/2048)*5 = 0.0024 volts per change in the input binary code.
The downside here is that for a “n”-bit DAC, a binary weighted resistor DAC necessitates a wide range of high precision resistors (one per bit), which makes it unfeasible (and costly) for converters with higher resolution than a few bits.
But by transforming it into an R-2R resistor ladder DAC, which only needs two precise resistance values—R and 2R—we may build on the concept of a binary weighted digital-to-analogue circuit arrangement that employs variable value resistors. We will examine how the R-2R Digital-to-Analogue Converter transforms a digital binary number into an analogue voltage output using just two resistor values in the upcoming update about digital-to-analogue converters.
Conclusion
The Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) translates digital data in binary format into analogue signals, such as voltage or current, based on the value of its digital input number.
Inverting Operational Amplifier Circuit is used for the conversion of digital signals to analogue ones. Negative feedback lowers and regulates the operational amplifiers’ extraordinarily high open-loop gain (AOL).
The closed-loop Gain (ACL) is derived by dividing input resistance (RIN) by the feedback resistance (RF). The output Voltage VO is calculated by multiplying the input voltage VIN and Gain (ACL).
The “Summing Inverting Voltage Amplifier” circuit is used for multiple inputs; inputs are connected to the negative end of the operational amplifier, herein the output voltage (VO) is proportional to the sum of all the input voltages.
The transfer characteristic of the 4-bit binary weighted digital-to-analogue converter with +5 volts input, with the feedback resistance (RF) set at 1kΩ, 8-4-2-1 binary weighted DACs will provide an output voltage change of 0.625 volts for each bit that is modified.
The drawback is that a binary weighted resistor DAC for a “n”-bit DAC requires a large range of high precision resistors (one per bit), which renders it impractical (and expensive) for converters with resolutions of more than a few bits. We use R-2R resistor ladder DAC for high resolution.
Tiny Raspberry Pi RP2040 module connects to USB-C + buttons board via FPC connector
The Waveshare RP2040-Tiny enters the scene as a noteworthy addition to the family of Raspberry Pi RP2040 modules. In the company of counterparts like Pimoroni Tiny 2040, DFRobot Beetle RP2020, and Solder Party RP2040 Stamp, the RP2040-Tiny distinguishes itself with a unique feature set. Notably, this solderable module introduces an FPC connector, allowing users to connect to a computer for programming with a USB-C port, a Boot button, and a Reset button.
RP2040-Tiny Development Board
The RP2040-Tiny micro development board, powered by the Raspberry Pi-developed RP2040 chip, stands out as a versatile solution for various projects. The unique design incorporates a separate adapter board, allowing for the isolation of USB and keypad circuits. This approach streamlines the board’s architecture and significantly reduces its overall thickness and size, presenting users with a convenient option for seamless integration into their diverse projects.
Pinout diagram
It is a compact hardware component built around the Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller, akin to the Raspberry Pi Pico. This module is programmable using versatile languages such as MicroPython and supports the C/C++ Software Development Kits (SDKs) provided by Raspberry Pi. Developers can also utilize the familiar Arduino IDE for programming applications on the RP2040-Tiny module, broadening its accessibility. Beyond Python and C/C++, the RP2040 microcontroller, upon which the module is based, accommodates various programming languages.
Features
RP2040 microcontroller chip designed by Raspberry Pi in the United Kingdom.
Dual-core Arm Cortex M0+ processor, flexible clock running up to 133 MHz.
264KB of SRAM, and 2MB of onboard Flash memory.
Onboard FPC 8PIN connector, adapting USB Type-C port via an adapter board.
Castellated module allows soldering directly to carrier boards.
USB 1.1 with device and host support.
Low-power sleep and dormant modes.
Drag-and-drop programming using mass storage over USB
8 × Programmable I/O (PIO) state machines for custom peripheral support.
Detailed hardware and software documentation for the RP2040-Tiny module is available in the associated wiki.
Waveshare is selling the RP2040-Tiny module for $10.67 (two pieces) on Aliexpress, and if you wish to add the USB-C board with an FCP cable that would be $11.56 for two kits on the same page.
The ED-AIC2100 and ED-AIC2000 are two new AI camera modules powered by the RPi CM4, and designed for industrial and commercial applications. These camera systems are equipped with the Broadcom BCM2711 CPU and offer storage options of 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB eMMC. They feature a high-resolution image sensor that supports up to 70 FPS video recording making them ideal for ultra-fast image acquisition.
The camera uses a 2.0MP sensor with a 2.3MP upgrade option. The sensor is capable of taking monochrome images with its global shutter. This sensor has a capture speed of 70 framesper second, making it ideal for quick image capture in industrial areas. It also offers optional polarizers in half or full-setup configurations.
Now looking at the ED-AIC2100 mode it features an optional liquid module zoom and supports various C-Mount lenses, ensuring versatile focus adjustments. This device also has a 2.0MP monochrome global shutter sensor capable of recording at 60 Frames Per second. They come with adjustable and fixed lenses, controlledLED lighting, and optional polarizers, making them very adaptable for different uses.
On the software side, this device runs on Raspberry Pi OS (64-bit) and includes OpenCV, QT, and Python for various AI tasks. Additionally, this device supports YOLO V5 and V8 for machine learning tasks and can work with many third-party libraries like Halcon ArmV8 and Aurora Vision.
Powered by AMD® Ryzen™ Embedded V3000, the module features up to 8 cores at 15W, 45W, integrated 2x10G Ethernet, with extreme temperature options for various networking use cases
Summary:
ADLINK brings 8 cores at 15W, 45W TDP in its latest COM Express Basic size Type 7 module —Express VR7 — delivering the best performance per watt coupled with exceptional responsiveness brought by 64GB dual-channel DDR5 SO-DIMM.
Integrated with 2x 10G Ethernet and 14x PCIe Gen4 lanes, and with extreme temperature option (-40°C to 85°C), it is your ideal solution for various networking and data processing applications.
ADLINK Express-VR7 fulfills use cases, including, but not limited to, edge networking equipment, 5G, signal processing, industrial automation and control, and rugged edge servers.
ADLINK Technology Inc., a global leader in edge computing, announces the launch of its Express-VR7 module with up to 8 cores at 15W, 45W powered by AMD Ryzen Embedded V3000. Exhibiting the best performance per watt and cost in its class combined with 64GB dual-channel DDR5 SO-DIMM (ECC/non-ECC) for prominent responsiveness, the COM-Express Basic size Type 7 module boasts as a go-to solution for various mission-critical data processing and networking applications at 15W, 45W TDP.
“It is evident that edge networking demands have been trending towards more and more compact, fanless, power-efficient designs that can withstand normal to harsh environments, “said Lauryn Hsu, Senior Product Manager at ADLINK COM. “Blending AMD ‘Zen 3’ high-performance architecture with topnotch energy efficiency and industrial-grade reliability, Express-VR7 strikes the perfect balance between performance and power consumption in constant networking and edge systems.”
“We are excited to collaborate with ADLINK on its newest Express VR7 module powered by our AMD Ryzen™ Embedded V3000 processor,” said David Rosado, senior product marketing manager, Embedded Processors Group at AMD. “With its combination of high-performance and power efficiency, the Ryzen Embedded V3000 is a great addition to the Express VR7 module especially for developers who require a robust Computer-on-Module solution with advanced features for edge computing.”
Integrating 14x PCIe Gen4 lanes and 2x10G Ethernet interfaces that are backplane KR, copper, and fiber optic compatible, and is available with extreme temperature option (-40°C to 85°C), the ADLINK Express-VR7 module can realize wide-ranging edge networking innovations, such as edge networking equipment, 5G infrastructure at the edge, video storage analytics, intelligent surveillance, and industrial automation and control.
ADLINK is also working to provide I-Pi development kits based on the Express-VR7 module for out-of-the-box-ready prototyping and referencing.
The Boondock Echo is an internet-backed, two-way radio attachment with advanced features like recording, playback, denoise, transcribing, and translation. Additionally, it offers keyword-based notifications, enhancing communication efficiency and monitoring.
Boondock Echo connects to a radio, transmitting and storing audio on the cloud for transcription. You can now set alerts on these transcripted keywords through the web interface.
The box of Boondock Echo measures 120x90x30mm. In the box, you will find the device itself along with a K-type two-pin cable, and a 3.5mm audio jack. There is a power switch on one side, with a MicroSD slot and USB port on the other side of the device. In the front, we have Push-to-Talk (PTT) and volume buttons. And finally, three multicolor LEDs indicate the Wi-Fi, audio, and device status.
Setting up the Boondock Echo is fairly easy. First, you need to connect it to Wi-Fi using your credentials. You can add several Wi-Fi networks for redundancy. Once you are done setting up Wi-Fi you can access many settings through the web interface of the device. In the web interface, there is a feature that lets you know the Wi-Fi status through voice messages.
The device contains two boards: a main board with an ESP32-A1S module and a smaller Boondock Audio Kit Sidekick board, connected to the external K-type cable and 3.5mm audio-out interfaces.
To listen to a channel, you have to set the frequency manually on the radio itself. The Boondock Echo can only enable the push-to-talk feature and send a pre-saved message button. There is also an option in the web interface t disable this feature completely to avoid accidental messages. All these features are good but it has a minor flow, If you want to listen to different frequencies, you’ll need more than one Boondock Echo device.
Key Features of Boondock Echo
Audio Recording&Transmission: Records and transmits audio via connected radios.
Cloud Accessibility: Stores and accesses recordings on the cloud.
Remote Control: Manages settings like volume and recording remotely via the cloud.
Cloud-to-Radio Transmission: Sends audio from the cloud to the radio, including uploaded files.
Automated Transcription: Transcribes recordings on the cloud using AI.
Audio Enhancement: Improves recording quality with AI technology.
Scheduling& Triggers: Schedules recording sessions and sets keyword-based triggers.
Station Management: Manages multiple radio stations as cloud presets.
Dockpack Linking: Connects multiple devices for comprehensive audio monitoring.
On-Device Playback: Plays audio directly from the device or via the cloud.
Long-Term Archival: Stores radio frequency audio for extended periods.
Favorites Marking: Marks important audio messages for easy retrieval.
Real-World Compatibility: Tested with Baofeng UV-5R+ radio, covering 136-174 MHz and 400-480MHz frequency ranges.
Impressive Transcription Quality: Utilizes OpenAI for high-quality transcription in challenging conditions.
FutureExpansions: Aims to support services like IFFT for varied notifications.
Open Source: Hardware and on-device software are open-sourced, and available on GitHub.
Boondock Echo can be used for monitoring emergency frequencies for specific keywords or tracking amateur radio nets for call signs.
At the time of writing this article, the pricing details are still pending, but some sources believe that it will include a hardware cost along with a cloud subscription cost. The device is open-sourced so all the hardware and software are available on GitHub.
The SaraKIT is an open-source Raspberry Pi CM4 expansion board for the Raspberry Pi CM4. The highlighting feature of this board is its ChatGPT-enabled voice assistant, thanks to its three sensitive microphones. This board also has two BLDC motor controllers, accelerometers, gyroscopes, and various sensors. SaraAI also extended its support for platforms like Amazon Alexa, Home Assistant, and Google Home.
The most interesting feature for me was their custom ChatGPT-supported voice assistance with a 3D-printed casing with user face tracking and recognition capabilities.
Features & Specifications of SaraKIT
Raspberry Pi CM4 Carrier Board compatible with future CM5 modules
Compact design slightly larger than a credit card at approximately 9 cm diameter
Advanced voice control using ZL38063 for high-quality audio
Three sensitive SPH0655 microphones for clear sound capture
Sound localization capable of voice recognition up to 5 meters away
High sensitivity with an SNR of -37 dB ±1 dB @ 94 dB SPL
Amplified stereo output with 2 x 6W at 4Ω
Two DRV8313 three-phase BLDC motor drivers supporting up to 65V and 3A peak
Two encoder inputs, reprogrammable as GPIO
11 GPIO pins available for UART, I2C, PWM, and more
Dual camera interfaces with CSI support
Digital Accelerometer LIS3DH and LSM6DS3TR for 3D motion sensing
LSM6DS3TR includes an always-on 3D gyroscope and temperature sensor
dsPIC33 embedded programmable 16-bit microcontroller with 32 KB memory
Host USB support for enhanced connectivity options
As this project is open source, there is no shortage of available documentation. On their GitHub repo, you can find all of their schematics, PCB layout, and other hardware design files. You can also check out their official website and their YouTube channel for additional examples and documentation.
You can purchase the whole kit at a nominal price of $99 from Crowd Supply. The kit includes a SaraKIT CM4 board, a flexible camera cable (17cm), and a special camera adapter with a sensor. The company also started a Crowd Supply campaign with an initial goal of $5,000, but at the time of writing this article, they have already surpassed that.
CAPUF Embedded recently released an All-in-One MCU Development Board powered by the popular CH32V003 microcontroller. This board includes a 0.96-inch 128×64 pixel OLED display, along with an integrated buzzer and RGB LED for enhanced functionality.
After the initial release of this 10-cent microcontroller, we have seen a lot of development boards built on top of this microcontroller, the NANOCH32V003, and the original CH32V003 Dev Board being among them. We have seen YouTubers like CNLohr and EEVblog talk about this incredible 10-cent microcontroller, CNLohr even went a step further and introduced bit-banged USB on this tiny device.
But the developers of this All-in-one board planned something unique and different, and we were presented with this All-in-one development board that features a CH32V003 microcontroller. Additionally, this board uses the USB-C Port for Power and Serial Interface; it also has an I2C – Temperature Humidity Sensor, a 0.96″ Pixels OLED Display, an 8Mbit SPI NORFlash, an Option for Connecting an External 24Mhz Oscillator, an MCU Reset Button, a Buzzer and many other features, full features list can be found in the section below.
At the heart of the board is the CH32V003 microcontroller, which is an ultra-low-cost (10-cent) 32-bit microcontroller based on the RISC-V 2Acore. It has a maximum system central frequency of 48MHz and features 2KB of SRAM and 16KB of Flash memory. CH32V003 also has a wide range of peripheral interfaces, including a DMA controller, a 10-bit ADC, an op-amp comparator, multiple timers, and standard communication interfaces such as USART, I2C, and SPI. With these features, CH32V003 can be used in a wide range of applications.
The company will provide the firmware, example code, and tutorials which will make it easy for beginners to get started with the development board. Additionally, helpful resources like the PDF schematic and a 3D model (STEP file) of the Dev Kit will be released soon. To program the board, you’ll use the WCHLinkE programmer, which CAPUF Embedded just started reselling. For more details and updates about the product, you can visit their official page.
CH32V003 Dev Kit Technical Features
USB-C Port: Provides 5V power and serial interface.
3.3V LDO: On-board Low Dropout Regulator.
UART: USB to UART interface.
I2C Interfaces:
Temperature and humidity sensor.
Qwiik Connector for external sensor boards.
0.96″ OLED display module (128×64 pixels).
4-pin header for jumper wire connections (connector not pre-soldered).
SPI Interface: 8Mbit SPI NOR Flash.
PWM: RGB LED for various color outputs.
GPIO Inputs: Two keys for user input.
ADC Input: Variable resistor/potentiometer.
GPIO Outputs: One LED and one buzzer.
Programming Interface: 3-pin header for WCH-LinkE Programmer.
I/O Ports: 20-pin MCU I/Os breakout on headers.
Status Indicators: LED indicators for 5V, 3.3V, UART RX, and TX.
External Oscillator: Option to connect a 24Mhz oscillator.
Reset Feature: MCU reset button on the board.
The company says the development kit will include a programmer and a USB-C cable, ensuring that users have everything needed for evaluation and development. The expected price range for this development board is around $35-45 with accessories.
The product is not yet available to purchase. However, the product page indicates that it will be released soon. Once available, it can be purchased from Makerpals, Tindie, and Indian store Evelta.
MaTouch is a rotary encoder with a circular display attached to it. This nifty device is designed and developed by Makerfabs and powered by an ESP32-S3 module. Priced at $44.80 this this compact gadget features Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities and can be used for IoT applications.
A year back I came around to this DIY haptic input knob designed by scottbez1 and since then I always wanted to make something like this but the availability of parts and the time required to build was always an issue. But a few days ago I found out about MaTouch, which perfectly fits the requirements for my home automation project.
The device uses an ESP32-S3 chip, which has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 capabilities. It’s enhanced with 8M of PSRAM and 16MB of flash memory for storage. It also has a dual-core processor that can run up to 240 MHz, making it quite powerful for handling various tasks.
The device features a 2.1” IPS display with 480×480 pixels resolution and the display has a 75FPS refresh rate with a 65K color range. Additionally, the device provides UART and I2C pins for further expansion and connectivity options.
Like the DIY version we have talked about earlier, this device also supports clockwise and counterclockwise rotation and touch inputs you can check out the attached video for further reference.
I/O: 2x Grove connectors, rotary encoder, flash, and reset buttons.
USB: USB Type-C port.
Operating Temperature: -40℃ to 85℃.
Power: Onboard LDO, 5V DC via USB Type-C.
Size: 71.27 x 71.27mm.
The most challenging aspect of the DIY approach was the software side of things. Even though it was open source, you needed to write your own code for additional features and enhancements. However, MATouch solves this problem with its well-documented Wiki page and a GitHub repository filled with examples to speed up software development.
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