Tag: Raspberry Pi

  • Maix4: Raspberry Pi 5 Expansion Module and Development Board

    Maix4: Raspberry Pi 5 Expansion Module and Development Board

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Maix4-HAT is versatile, functioning as both a Raspberry Pi expansion board and an independent unit.
    2. It features an AX650 chip with an INT4 performance of 72 TOPS and INT8 performance of 18 TOPS, focused on AI applications like image content analysis.
    3. The board includes eight A55 CPU cores, 8 GB of RAM, a USB 3.0 port, and various connectors for peripherals.
    4. It has a mini HDMI port, I2C ports, an SPI port, and a PCIe connection for Raspberry Pi linkage.
    5. The pricing is HK$ 1,174.21 (approximately $149), but it is currently out of stock on AliExpress.

    The Maix4-HAT is quite an unique system that, as the name HAT implies, can function both as an expansion board for a Raspberry Pi or as an independent unit. It features an AX650 chip, capable of achieving an INT4 performance of 72 TOPS and is said to provide 18 TOPS at INT8. The board measures 56 x 65 millimeters and can speed up various AI applications, including specialized DeepSeek models and Qwen3. The manufacturer notes that this system isn’t designed to enhance LLMs. Instead, its capabilities are geared towards image content analysis, like automatic object detection in surveillance cameras.

    Technical Features

    This board includes eight A55 CPU cores that can operate at speeds up to 1.7 GHz, along with 8 GB of RAM. There’s a USB 3.0 port for connecting additional devices, and the underside of the board features I2C ports as well as an SPI port for connecting to a monitor. For linkage with a Raspberry Pi, the PCIe connection can be found at the rear. Additionally, it has connectors for a fan and speakers, plus a mini HDMI port.

    Pricing Information

    Sipeed lists the price of the Maix4-HAT as HK$ 1,174.21 (which is around $149) on AliExpress, though it seems to be out of stock at the moment of this writing.

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    Maix4: Raspberry Pi 5 Expansion Module and Development Board

     

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  • Lyra Pi: Affordable LTE Micro Development Board Beats Raspberry Pi

    Lyra Pi: Affordable LTE Micro Development Board Beats Raspberry Pi

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lyra Pi is a new single-board computer introduced by Luckfox, available in four models and compatible with an LTE modem.
    2. All models feature three Cortex-A7 cores running up to 1.2 GHz and a Cortex-M0 core, with RAM fixed at 512 MB DDR3L.
    3. The Lyra Pi A has 8 GB of eMMC storage, while the Pi B model uses a memory card and lacks eMMC; both A versions do not have a memory card slot.
    4. Connectivity options include two USB 2.0 ports, MIPI DSI support, and two Ethernet ports (max 100 MBit/s); HDMI is not available.
    5. The board with the 4G module kit and 8 GB eMMC storage retails for $67, with the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module available separately for an additional $3.

    The variety of single-board computers and development boards has grown significantly in recent times, with the Raspberry Pi leading the pack, now in its fifth generation. Recently, Luckfox introduced a new option called the Lyra Pi, which comes in four different models and can be paired with an LTE modem. The SIM7600G-H-M.2 LTE Cat 4 module supports LTE-TDD, LTE-FDD, HSPA+, GSM, GPRS, and EDGE, making installation a breeze.

    Hardware Specs

    No matter which model you select, all of them come equipped with three Cortex-A7 cores that can run up to 1.2 GHz, along with a Cortex-M0 core. The Lyra Pi A features 8 GB of eMMC storage, whereas the Pi B model does not include eMMC and utilizes a memory card instead. Notably, the two Pi A versions lack a memory card slot. Both the Lyra Pi A W and Lyra Pi B W are fitted with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 capabilities.

    Connectivity Options

    All models offer 512 MB of DDR3L RAM. While HDMI connections for screens are not available, MIPI DSI connections are supported. The board is equipped with two USB 2.0 ports, and extra USB ports can be accessed through headers. The two built-in Ethernet ports do not reach Gigabit speeds; they max out at 100 MBit/s. The SIM card slot is conveniently located next to the M.2 slot for the mobile modem, and there’s a combined jack for audio output or microphone connection. Like many single-board computers, a color-coded GPIO pin header is included, allowing for easy connection of sensors and actuators via UART.

    Pricing Details

    The board, including the 4G module kit and 8GB of eMMC storage, measures 85 x 56 millimeters and is priced at $67. However, the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module is sold separately for an additional $3, which buyers can opt to purchase.

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    Lyra Pi: Affordable LTE Micro Development Board Beats Raspberry Pi

     

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  • Nick Gillard Launches 62mm Pico-Mac-Nano: Raspberry Pi Classic

    Nick Gillard Launches 62mm Pico-Mac-Nano: Raspberry Pi Classic

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nick Gillard has created a tiny functional Macintosh Classic called the pico-mac-nano, measuring only 62 mm tall, using a Raspberry Pi board.
    2. The pico-mac-nano runs a modified version of the pico-mac Macintosh 128K emulator and is available for purchase online for around £56 (~$75).
    3. The project faced technical challenges, such as adapting the display resolution and color depth due to hardware limitations of the compact design.
    4. The device features a 2-inch LCD display and connects to keyboards and mice via a USB-C splitter cable, with a custom 3D-printed case.
    5. Beginners interested in Raspberry Pi can find a helpful guide on Amazon to assist with starting their own projects.

    Nick Gillard has introduced one of the tiniest functional Macintosh Classics, standing at only 62 mm (2.44 in.) tall. This innovative project utilizes the compact WaveShare Pico Zero Raspberry Pi board, which runs a tweaked version of the pico-mac Macintosh 128K emulator. You can buy the fully assembled pico-mac-nano from the 1-bit rainbow store for £56 (~$75). For collectors, there’s a boxed edition available for £78 (~$105).

    The World of Macintosh Emulation

    Macintosh emulation has existed for many years, with passionate fans running the operating system and applications on various devices, from desktops to tablets, often employing Hackintosh techniques. Interestingly, the only touchscreen Macs that can be found today are PCs running macOS. The pico-mac project effectively emulates the original 128K Mac Classic using Raspberry Pi boards.

    Crafting the Pico-Mac-Nano

    To bring the pico-mac-nano to life, Mr. Gillard employed multiple hacks and modifications to fit the functional components into the tiny 3D-printed case. One of the main challenges was addressing the hardware limitation of rotating the display frame buffer to accommodate the 2-inch 480 x 640 pixel LCD display. Due to the restricted processing bandwidth, the native Mac display resolution of 512 x 342 pixels could not be implemented, so the pico-nano emulator was adjusted to output 480 x 342 pixels, which worked out just fine.

    Technical Challenges with the LCD

    The LCD panel requires an RGB input of 5 bits for red, 6 bits for green, and 5 bits for blue; however, the total 16 bits once again surpass the available hardware bandwidth. The solution involved adjusting the two most significant bits of each color channel, which greatly lowered the total bits needed to operate the display.

    The custom interface PCB and case were made using 3D printing, which made it easy to connect the LCD to the Raspberry Pi board. The USB-C port on the back of the board provides power and connects to an external keyboard and mouse using a USB-C splitter cable. The modified pico-mac emulator operates through the rear-facing microSD card.

    Getting Started with Raspberry Pi

    For those new to Raspberry Pi projects and looking to dive in, there’s a helpful book available on Amazon that can guide them through the basics.

    Check out the 1-bit rainbow blog, visit the 1-bit rainbow store, explore the pico-mac-nano gallery, or find out more about pico-mac on GitHub and WaveShare.

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    Nick Gillard Launches 62mm Pico-Mac-Nano: Raspberry Pi ClassicNick Gillard Launches 62mm Pico-Mac-Nano: Raspberry Pi ClassicNick Gillard Launches 62mm Pico-Mac-Nano: Raspberry Pi Classic

     

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  • Use Your Steam Deck as a Wii U GamePad Replacement Now

    Use Your Steam Deck as a Wii U GamePad Replacement Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Wii U has become a collectible item despite poor sales and issues with the GamePad.
    2. The limited game compatibility means most games require a functioning GamePad, with no official replacements available.
    3. An open-source project called Vanilla aims to replicate the GamePad’s functionality for various devices.
    4. Vanilla supports devices like Raspberry Pi and Steam Deck but currently has limitations with certain wireless adapters.
    5. The reverse engineering of the GamePad protocol helps extend the Wii U’s lifespan and provides alternatives for users with broken GamePads.

    The Wii U may not have done well in sales, but it has turned into a collectible item, even if that wasn’t the original plan. One major issue with the Wii U is a malfunctioning GamePad, and when it breaks, the console becomes nearly useless.

    Limited Game Compatibility

    Although few games can be played without the GamePad, this selection is quite limited, and there has never been a way to buy a replacement from either Nintendo or third parties. This leaves only the second-hand market as an option for those needing a replacement.

    Exciting New Alternatives

    Fortunately, if you own a Wii U with a broken GamePad—or if your GamePad is still working and you want to maintain it—there is now an open-source alternative available.

    Vanilla is an ongoing project that aims to replicate the Wii U GamePad’s functionality for various devices like the Raspberry Pi, Steam Deck, and Android. It relies heavily on low-level access to Wi-Fi hardware and has a long list of devices that it supports or does not. Currently, the ROG Ally and Ally X (which you can find on Amazon) are not supported due to their MediaTek MT7922 wireless adapters, but there is hope for a resolution soon.

    Additional Compatibility

    There is also a version designed for the Nintendo Switch, though it requires a Broadcom firmware patch or an external Wi-Fi adapter, likely needing a modified Switch as well. It should work on a variety of Linux-based laptops (with Windows support on the way), as long as the Wi-Fi hardware is compatible.

    The achievement of reverse engineering the protocol, especially given Nintendo’s closed-source hardware, is significant. It not only helps extend the lifespan of the Wii U for those with faulty GamePads but also offers the broader community options to keep the Wii U operational, despite Nintendo’s attempts to phase it out.

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  • 90s Cable Nostalgia with Raspberry Pi at FieldStation42

    90s Cable Nostalgia with Raspberry Pi at FieldStation42

    Key Takeaways

    1. Developer Shane Mason created a 3D printable vintage cable box for his 90s cable simulation project, FieldStation42.
    2. The cable box features a tactile number pad and a monochrome display, while housing a Raspberry Pi to run the simulation.
    3. FieldStation42 aims to recreate the nostalgic cable TV experience but requires user involvement for programming.
    4. The new scheduling tool includes time slots, tags, and programmable tips for better content organization.
    5. The quality of the simulation depends on the availability of diverse and responsibly sourced content like channel bumpers and TV shows.

    Inspired by his partners, developer Shane Mason has launched a 3D printable design of a vintage cable box to go along with his 90s cable simulation project, FieldStation42. This cable box showcases all the classic features you’d expect, including a tactile number pad for channel selection and a monochrome numerical display. Even though the exterior appears nostalgic, it actually contains a Raspberry Pi that operates FieldStation42, which cleverly uses programming to bring the essence of cable TV back to life.

    TV Programming Made Simple (or Not)

    While watching TV might be straightforward, users will discover that programming it is a bit more complicated. Thankfully, FieldStation42 offers various tools to help recreate that cherished experience from the past. Some of the features include:

    Enhanced Scheduling Features

    Moreover, the new scheduling tool in FieldStation42 addresses the issue of content organization by employing time slots, tags, and break strategies to create more lifelike schedules along with programmable scheduling tips. Users can also utilize the new text-based user interface to build catalogs and schedules instead of relying on the command line. In the end, though, the simulation’s quality will hinge on the content uploaded to FieldStation42; having plenty of responsibly gathered channel bumpers, commercials, TV shows, and movies will provide the best resources for achieving an authentic channel-flipping experience. Interested channel surfers can check out links below to learn how to set up a FieldStation42 or see it in action.

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    90s Cable Nostalgia with Raspberry Pi at FieldStation42
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  • Muse Pi Pro: RISC-V SoC, M.2 & PCIe Raspberry Pi Alternative

    Muse Pi Pro: RISC-V SoC, M.2 & PCIe Raspberry Pi Alternative

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Muse Pi Pro uses a RISC-V processor (SpacemiT M1) with 8 CPU cores and an NPU, unlike the Raspberry Pi which uses ARM architecture.
    2. It offers memory options of 8GB or 16GB LPDDR4X RAM and storage options of 32GB or 64GB eMMC, along with support for M.2 SSDs.
    3. Connectivity features include Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and a mini PCIe slot for a cellular modem.
    4. The board has four USB 3.0 Type-A ports, one USB 2.0 Type-C port, and supports MIPI-CSI and MIPI-CSO for displays and cameras.
    5. The Muse Pi Pro is compatible with various Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, and was initially priced around $120.

    The Muse Pi Pro is a fresh single-board computer that resembles the popular Raspberry Pi and might be a good substitute for it. But, there is a key difference that sets them apart. Unlike the Raspberry Pi which uses ARM architecture, the Muse Pi Pro runs on a RISC-V processor. Specifically, this board is driven by the SpacemiT M1, featuring 8 CPU cores and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that delivers a performance of 2 TOPS, making it ideal for AI tasks.

    Memory and Storage Options

    Depending on which model you choose, the Muse Pi Pro comes with either 8GB or 16GB of LPDDR4X RAM. Storage options include eMMC 4.1 with either 32GB or 64GB capacities. This compact computer also supports an M.2 2230 SSD, and you can connect a cellular modem using the mini PCIe 2.1 slot, which has one lane. Additionally, the Muse Pi Pro is equipped with Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2 for connectivity. Dimensions for the board are around 3.3 x 2.2 inches, and it includes a 40-pin GPIO header for linking sensors and actuators.

    Ports and Compatibility

    There are four USB 3.0 Type-A ports on the Muse Pi Pro, along with one USB 2.0 Type-C port. You can connect displays and cameras via MIPI-CSI and MIPI-CSO interfaces. The single-board computer supports a range of Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, and it receives power through the USB Type-C connection. The Muse Pi Pro was briefly available on AliExpress with prices starting at about $120, but that listing has been removed since then.

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    Muse Pi Pro: RISC-V SoC, M.2 & PCIe Raspberry Pi Alternative

     

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  • Radxa Dragon Q6A: New Qualcomm-Based Raspberry Pi Alternative

    Radxa Dragon Q6A: New Qualcomm-Based Raspberry Pi Alternative

    Key Takeaways

    1. Radxa is launching the Dragon Q6A single-board computer as an alternative to Raspberry Pi.
    2. The Dragon Q6A features a Qualcomm QCS6490 SoC with powerful AI capabilities and integrated GPU.
    3. Connectivity options include MIPI DSI, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.4, but lack integrated mass storage.
    4. Compatibility with Raspberry Pi accessories is provided through a 40-pin GPIO header.
    5. Community interest is growing on platforms like Weibo, discussing the Dragon Q6A’s potential applications.

    Radxa is set to introduce a new single-board computer called the Dragon Q6A. This SBC can be seen as a substitute for the well-known Raspberry Pi. It has dimensions of 3.35 x 2.56 inches and features a 40-pin GPIO header, which is compatible with Raspberry Pi accessories. Thus, users can connect related expansion boards, although there may be instances where software support is not assured.

    Powerful Specifications

    This SBC is powered by the Qualcomm QCS6490 SoC, which includes four Cortex-A78 cores and four Cortex-A55 cores, along with an Adreno 634L integrated GPU. Additionally, it comes with an NPU that is capable of delivering an AI performance of 12 TOPS, enabling the local execution of certain AI models, such as image object recognition. Users can connect cameras through USB or MIPI CSI ports, which are commonly found in the SBC market.

    Connectivity Options

    For video output, MIPI DSI and HDMI ports are provided. Network connectivity can be achieved through Gigabit Ethernet, which includes optional Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, or via WiFi 6. Support for Bluetooth 5.4 is also included; however, there is no integrated mass storage. As a result, hobbyists will need to install eMMC, UFS modules, or an M.2 SSD for additional storage. Similar to many other single-board computers, the Radxa Dragon Q6A is compatible with microSD cards and can support up to 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM. The company has yet to disclose pricing or a release date.

    Community Reactions

    The announcement has sparked interest among tech enthusiasts on platforms like Weibo, where discussions about its potential applications and performance are already underway.

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    Radxa Dragon Q6A: New Qualcomm-Based Raspberry Pi Alternative

     

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  • Speed Boost Update for Raspberry Pi Pico Boards

    Speed Boost Update for Raspberry Pi Pico Boards

    Key Takeaways

    1. Raspberry Pi has upgraded its RP2040 microcontroller speed to 200 MHz, a 50% increase from the original 133 MHz.
    2. The new speed option is available with version 2.1.1 of the Pico SDK, but may cause compatibility issues with existing programs.
    3. The higher speed requires a voltage increase to 1.15 V, compared to the previous 1.10 V.
    4. The 200 MHz mode is not enabled by default and must be activated by setting SYS_CLK_MHZ=200 in the code.
    5. A similar speed upgrade may be possible for the RP2350, which currently operates at a maximum of 150 MHz.

    Raspberry Pi has quietly introduced a significant speed upgrade to its RP2040 microcontroller, which is used in single-board computers (SBCs) like the Pico W (currently priced at $15.99 on Amazon). The RP2040, which made its debut in early 2021, features Cortex-M0+ cores and was known for its relatively low cost. Originally, these cores operated at speeds of up to 133 MHz, or 125 MHz at a voltage of 1.10 V.

    New Speed Options

    With the release of version 2.1.1 of the Pico SDK, there is now an option to run at 200 MHz, marking a 50% increase over the standard speeds. However, this enhancement comes with some drawbacks. Raspberry Pi has cautioned users that this new speed may lead to compatibility issues with some existing programs. Additionally, the new 200 MHz mode requires a higher voltage, with 1.15 V specified in the release notes for v2.1.1.

    Activation Process

    Due to these considerations, the new CPU mode at 200 MHz is not enabled by default in v2.1.1. To activate it, users simply need to set SYS_CLK_MHZ=200 using a preprocessor define. Raspberry Pi has also suggested that a similar upgrade might be possible for the RP2350, which is currently limited to a maximum of 150 MHz. For further information, check out the Pico SDK page on GitHub.

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  • Leica M2 Upgraded to Digital with Raspberry Pi and 64 MP Sensor

    Leica M2 Upgraded to Digital with Raspberry Pi and 64 MP Sensor

    The initial version of the Leica MPi was introduced by Michael Suguitan as an open-source initiative in May 2023. Since then, there have been several important enhancements to the project. The core concept stays unchanged: the Leica M2 is paired with a Raspberry Pi and a camera sensor that works together to turn the classic 1957 rangefinder camera into a modern digital device.

    Improved Sensor Features

    In the latest iteration, the previous 12 MP Sony IMX477 sensor in a 1/2.3 inch format is substituted with a larger Arducam OwlSight sensor, boasting 64 MP in a 1/1.32 inch size. This upgraded sensor provides a magnification factor of 3.7, transforming the Laowa 9 mm f/5.6 lens into a lens that behaves like a 33 mm on a full-frame camera, while a 90 mm lens becomes equivalent to a 333 mm telephoto lens. Additionally, the new sensor allows for taking vibrant color photos during daytime, a feature that was hindered in the earlier model because there was no infrared filter, leading to color distortions.

    New Features and Design

    Changes also include support for flash and a built-in battery charged via USB-C. As illustrated in the video below, the digital module adds noticeable thickness to the middle section of the Leica M2, which restricts the viewfinder usage to the right eye only. For those interested in recreating this project on their own, the price of the camera should be taken into account, as finding a used Leica M2 now typically costs over $2,220.

    How to Get Involved

    The Leica MPi is available as an open-source project on Github, so if you’re looking to modify a Leica M2, you will need to do it yourself. The most cost-intensive parts necessary for assembly include the Arducam OwlSight camera sensor, priced around $60, the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 at $21, and the Waveshare LCD, which is about $14. If you wish to support the creator of this project, Michael Suguitan, you can purchase a photography book in A5 size that contains at least 30 pages for $20, plus shipping and import taxes, through Kickstarter.

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  • Raspberry Pi Launches RP2350 Pico 2 W with Wireless & Micro USB

    Raspberry Pi Launches RP2350 Pico 2 W with Wireless & Micro USB

    The Raspberry Pi Foundation has updated its Pico 2 microcontroller board just about three months after the first version launched worldwide (curr. $9.99 on Amazon). This new version, known as the Pico 2 W, brings wireless connectivity into the mix but comes with a higher price.

    Pricing Details

    The Pico 2 W is priced at $7, making it 40% pricier than the standard Pico 2. To summarize, the Pico 2 series is powered by the RP2350 microcontroller, which has 520 KB of SRAM along with two ARM Cortex-M33 processor cores that support both ARM Trustzone and Secure Boot. Additionally, the RP2350 has two RISC-V Hazard3 cores, though only one set can operate at a time.

    Specifications

    In addition to its features, the Pico 2 W includes 4 MB of onboard QSPI flash storage, a Micro USB 1.1 port, and a 26-pin GPIO header. Moreover, the Pico 2 W utilizes the Infineon CYW43439 modem from the earlier model, which limits its connectivity to Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 4 (802.11 n). For further details, refer to CNX Software’s initial comparison of the Pico 2 and Pico 2 W, along with the Pi Foundation’s website for purchasing information.

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