why
Tuesday 1 April 2025 4 versions

Why do we use these parts?

Micro-Controllers

Raspberry-Pi-Pico (RP2040)
Raspberry-Pi-Pico-W (RP2040)
Raspberry-Pi-Pico2 (RP2350)
Raspberry-Pi-Pico2-W (RP2350)

  • boards are cheap and processors are fast
  • supported by many languages (C, Arduino, µPython, Rust, …)
  • Picos have a large eco system:
    • good documentation
    • used by many hobbyist
  • RPi-Pico specs:
    Processor RAM Flash Cores Clock speed
    RP2040 264KB 2MB 2x ARM Cortex-M0+ 133MHz
    RP2350 520KB 4MB 2x ARM Cortex-M33 150MHz

CircuitPython vs. MicroPython

MicroPython (MPy) and CircuitPython (CPy) are closely related.
The Adafruit company is sponsoring CPy, which is a derivative of MPy.

  • The CPy interpreter uses only a small part of the on-board Flash memory
    • the other part is used as a FAT filesystem, which is
    • visible as an USB flash drive, named CIRCUITPY
  • CPy has a very large eco system of libraries (with documentation and examples)
  • Interpreter:
    • “fast enough”: usually no need for compiled programs
    • fast turn-around-times during development
    • CPy is “FUN” to use

16x16 NeoPixel-Matrix

“NeoPixel” is a term created by Adafruit for “smart” RGB-LEDs.
They are usually based on WS2812B chips.
See the “NeoPixel ÜberGuide” for a detailed explanation.

  • all LEDs are pre-soldered to a flexible PCB: size is only 16cm by 16cm
  • all 256 “NeoPixels” are chained together (in a zigzag style)
  • NeoPixels can be driven with only 3 pins: +5V, GND and Data
  • NeoMatrices have an “affordable” price tag

All resources can be be downloaded from the assets directory, as well.

Optional Enhancements

  • IKEA picture frames
  • Hornbach
    • Diffusors made from “Grey Acrylic Glas”

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