Rising Edge Digital
Hardware & Embedded Systems for Software Developers
TagTinker Lets You Hack Electronic Shelf Labels
TagTinker is a new application designed for the Flipper Zero device that allows users to interact with electronic shelf labels (ESLs) via infrared communication. These ESLs are e-paper displays used in retail to show product prices and information, and they typically receive updates wirelessly. The app was developed by [i12bp8], building on prior research by [furrtek] that uncovered the protocols these devices use for communication.
TDR For Auto Diagnostics Done On The Cheap
A time domain reflectometer (TDR) is a handy tool for diagnosing faults in wiring harnesses, but they can be prohibitively expensive for many DIY mechanics. László Szőke has developed an innovative, low-cost alternative using a C-Media USB audio device to send out sine waves instead of the traditional short electric pulses. This method allows users to measure the length of the wire and detect breaks by analyzing the phase shift of the reflections.
This $30 Project Puts You in the Driver’s Seat of an RC Car
This project showcases how to build a first-person view (FPV) remote-controlled (RC) car for under $30, allowing users to experience driving from the car's perspective. The setup uses the Seeed Studio XIAO ESP32-S3 Sense, which integrates processing power and a camera module on a single board. This compact design streams live video while controlling the car, eliminating the need for extra components.
From the Adafruit Learning System: EPCOT Spaceship Earth with WLED
This article from the Adafruit Learning System details a project that lets you create a cool IoT NeoPixel lamp inspired by EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth. The build utilizes a QT Py ESP32 PICO, which is a compact microcontroller, along with a NeoPixel BFF Driver to control the RGB LED strips. The project is powered by WLED, a tool that simplifies creating dynamic lighting effects.
Making a Split Flap Display
A split flap display is a nostalgic and visually appealing way to present information, often reminiscent of old train station signs. In a recent project, Adam G Makes shared his build process, which is based on a design by Instructables user MorganManly. The project utilizes modular 3D-printed components and programming from GitHub user scottbez1, who has provided code to control the display.
John Park’s CircuitPython Parsec: Smooth Noise Road
John Park's latest project showcases how to create smooth noise using the CircuitPython_Noise library. This library, developed by Todbot, allows users to generate various noise patterns which can be useful in audio projects or generative art. John provides a clear example in his article along with a link to a code snippet that demonstrates how to implement this in your own projects.
Arduino® App Lab 0.7: Custom Bricks are here!
Arduino App Lab 0.7 has just rolled out a significant update, introducing Custom Bricks that allow users to create modular software components for their projects. This addition enhances the flexibility of the Arduino UNO Q by enabling the development of reusable features that simplify complex tasks. The update also comes with revamped documentation to help newcomers navigate the App Lab more intuitively.
MiciMike’s open-source drop-in PCB converts Google Home Mini into a local voice assistant (Crowdfunding)
The MiciMike Home Mini Drop-In PCB is an open-source mainboard upgrade designed specifically for the 1st Gen Google Home Mini. This replacement board transforms the smart speaker into a fully local voice assistant that operates without relying on cloud services. It’s built on the ESP32-S3 microcontroller and features the XMOS XU316 audio processor, enabling on-device wake word detection, echo cancellation, and noise suppression using two MEMS microphones.
NEW GUIDE: LED Matrix FIFA World Cup Scoreboard #AdafruitLearningSystem @Adafruit
Adafruit has released a guide for building an LED matrix display scoreboard specifically for the FIFA World Cup. This project utilizes a Matrix Portal S3, which is a microcontroller designed for driving LED matrices and runs on CircuitPython. The display pulls data from the ESPN API to show real-time game information, including team names, flags, location, and match times.
How to Reverse-Engineer Almost Any Keyboard Matrix With Raspberry Pi Pico
The article discusses a practical tutorial by a maker named thanishurs31, showing how to reverse-engineer keyboard matrices using a Raspberry Pi Pico with CircuitPython. This method allows users to scan the entire keyboard matrix, identifying which pins correspond to rows and columns, while also accommodating various board types like diode-protected N-key rollover boards and simple membrane keyboards. The process culminates in generating a clean JSON map that represents the keyboard’s structure.
The Hardware Hack That Makes 3D Modeling Intuitive
David Liu has created an innovative input device called Rotatrix, designed to enhance 3D modeling by making navigation more intuitive. Traditional input devices like keyboards and mice are not well-suited for 3D environments, often resulting in a cumbersome workflow that disrupts creativity. Liu's solution, inspired by existing devices like the SpaceMouse, is a modified trackball that simplifies the user experience.
Amaze! Amaze! Speak with Rocky #piday #raspberrypi #ProjectHailMary
A maker named Lahiru Maramba has created a physical version of Rocky, the alien engineer from Andy Weir's novel *Project Hail Mary*, using a Raspberry Pi Zero and a Whisplay hat. The project is powered by a local large language model (LLM) called Gemma 4, which runs on a MacBook Air. Maramba focused on getting Rocky's voice just right by programming a series of friendly tones in Python.
Natya Vidhan Biswas' Upcycled Beetel Phone Is Now a Slick Spotify Stream Selector
Natya Vidhan Biswas has transformed an old Beetel M59 landline phone into a modern music control device for Spotify. While cleaning, Biswas stumbled upon the neglected phone and decided to repurpose it rather than toss it. Using an Espressif ESP32 microcontroller, he interfaced the phone's keypad matrix to create a remote for music streaming.
Mehrdad Majzoobi's Raspberry Pi NFC Add-On Works Even When the Pi Is Powered Off
Mehrdad Majzoobi has developed an open-hardware near-field communication (NFC) add-on for Raspberry Pi that can function even when the board is powered off. This add-on, part of his Ubo Pod project, utilizes the NXP NT3H2211W0FT1 NFC chip, which offers both active and passive operation modes. In passive mode, it can harvest energy from a reader to communicate, making it useful for applications like tap-based payments without needing the Raspberry Pi to be on.
From Milliseconds to 26 Nanoseconds: How a $20 eBay SFP Module Beat My Entire NTP Setup
The article discusses how a $20 Small Form-factor Pluggable (SFP) module from eBay dramatically improved the author's Network Time Protocol (NTP) setup, achieving time synchronization accuracy of just 26 nanoseconds. The author compares this performance to traditional methods that typically provide time synchronization in milliseconds, highlighting the significant advantage of using this specific hardware.
KernelUNO – A lightweight OS for Arduino UNO with a Linux-like shell
KernelUNO is a lightweight operating system designed specifically for the Arduino UNO, offering a Linux-like shell experience with 546 lines of code. It requires an Arduino UNO R3 or a compatible board with a Microchip ATmega328P microcontroller, along with a USB cable for programming. For those interested in testing the GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) commands, a few LEDs and resistors can enhance the experience.
Raspberry Pi Pico Mechanical Keyboard
The article delves into a project by a maker named taifur, who created a custom mechanical keyboard called ClickPico using a Raspberry Pi Pico. This project showcases how enthusiasts can leverage this affordable microcontroller to design a fully functional keyboard tailored to their preferences.
I Built A Wireless Dactyl Manuform (2024)
The article details the creation of a wireless Dactyl Manuform keyboard, a popular ergonomic mechanical keyboard design known for its split layout and customizable key mapping. The author walks through the entire assembly process, from sourcing components to soldering the necessary parts, emphasizing the use of wireless technology for a cleaner workspace.
Raspberry Pi Powered C-3PO Head
Samuel Potozkin created an impressive interactive C-3PO head powered by a Raspberry Pi, allowing users to engage in real-time conversations with the droid. This project combines both hardware and meticulous prop-building techniques, including finishing 3D printed parts to achieve a realistic metallic appearance.
Tutorial: Creating Self-Contained MCUXpresso SDK Projects
The article explains how to create self-contained projects using the NXP MCUXpresso Software Development Kit (SDK) with the 'New Project Wizard' in Visual Studio Code. It emphasizes the importance of organizing your project to eliminate absolute paths and local dependencies, which helps make your project portable and easier to manage.
i found an old telephone and made it control spotify
The article discusses a project where the author repurposed an old telephone to control Spotify. Using a Beetel model landline phone, they integrated it with a Raspberry Pi, enabling the classic device to interact with modern streaming technology. The project involved wiring the phone to the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO (General-Purpose Input/Output) pins, allowing the phone's buttons to send signals to control playback functions like play, pause, and skip.
I Stopped Testing Embedded Systems by Hand. Here's What Replaced It.
The article discusses a shift in how embedded systems testing is approached, moving away from manual testing methods toward automation. The author describes the tedious routine of connecting to a board, executing commands, and logging outputs, which is a common practice for many engineers. This manual process can be time-consuming and error-prone, especially as projects grow in complexity.
Brick streamlines inspections on a budget
Alejandro Vazquez created "Brick," an open-source embedded device aimed at simplifying inspections across various industries. This compact, handheld unit is designed for inspectors to easily carry and use. With Brick, users can take photos, flag any issues, and generate inspection reports—all without relying on expensive proprietary systems.
DIY Sendspin audio receiver supports multi-room audio synchronization, integrates with Home Assistant
The SendspinZero is a DIY audio receiver that allows you to set up multi-room audio systems using open-source components. It’s built around a Waveshare ESP32-S3-Zero board, which is an affordable microcontroller, and it can be assembled with off-the-shelf parts that total around $10. The design includes a 3D printed enclosure, and while the core functionality is about audio playback, it also supports features like displaying album art on a screen and controlling sound-activated lights, which are expected to be added soon.
An open source Arduino library for the ESP32-P4 LP (Low Power) core
Xorlent has released an open source Arduino library specifically for the ESP32-P4 LP (Low Power) core under the MIT license. This library allows users to harness the capabilities of the dedicated Low Power core, which is a full RISC-V processor that can operate independently while the main dual-core CPU is in deep sleep. The LP core has access to various low-power peripherals and can wake the high-performance core when necessary.
Build a Giant 2,500-LED Wall on a Budget
Chris Maher has designed an impressive wall-sized LED matrix, comprised of 2,500 individually addressable LEDs, that’s both affordable and simple to construct. This 50×50 grid is powered by a single 12V supply and controlled by a single unit, utilizing 18 rolls of SK6812 LED strips. Each strip is cut into segments to create a manageable power and data structure, striking a balance between visual quality and power requirements.
Cyber Gotchi: From Tamagotchi to Modern Digital Life
Cyber Gotchi is a project by Thai maker Yakroo that transforms the classic Tamagotchi concept into a more interactive and physical digital pet. This system mimics a living digital creature with real-time internal states like hunger, energy, and health, which influence its behavior and appearance through animations, sounds, and even physical outputs. Unlike traditional digital pets that are confined to a screen, Cyber Gotchi brings these simulated lives into the real world using actual hardware components.
A DIY Watch You Can Actually Wear
LILYGO has launched the T-Watch Ultra, a DIY smartwatch aimed at hardware enthusiasts looking for a durable wearable. Unlike many homebrew smartwatches that struggle with everyday conditions, this device features an IP65-rated case, making it resistant to water and dust. It’s powered by an ESP32-S3 microcontroller, which boasts a dual-core CPU running at 240 MHz, along with ample memory for complex applications, including edge AI tasks.
Seeed Studio Officially Launches the reBot Arm B601, Releases Design Files for DIY Robot Builders
Seeed Studio has launched the reBot Arm B601, an open-source robotic arm designed for experimentation and real-world applications. This arm features a standardized design and a transparent Bill of Materials (BOM), making it easier for developers to transition from assembly to data collection and algorithm development. The arm can handle payloads of about 1.5 kg and has a maximum reach of 767 mm, with impressive repeatability under 0.2 mm across six degrees of freedom.
Przemek Wasinski Has Automated Plane-Spotting, via an ADS-B-Tracking Motorized Camera
Przemek Wasinski has created an automated plane-spotting system that combines a software-defined radio with a motorized camera. This setup tracks aircraft using Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) technology, which allows planes to continuously broadcast their location and other data. By using a 1090MHz radio antenna and decoding the signals with a tool called Dump1090, Wasinski's system can plot aircraft positions on a radar-like map.
The YARH.IO M4 Is a Raspberry Pi-Powered Handheld You Can — Finally — Build Yourself
The YARH.IO M4 is a DIY handheld computer powered by a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, now made accessible for builders with the release of 3D print files and comprehensive assembly instructions. Created by the maker known as "snc," this device features a compact design that includes a 4.3-inch touchscreen, an adjustable desk stand, and active cooling to keep the Raspberry Pi running smoothly. It supports both Raspberry Pi 4 and 3 models, making it a versatile option for repurposing older hardware.
Modded Server PSU Provides Plenty of Current
Danilo Larizza has come up with a clever way to repurpose old server power supplies into powerful benchtop power supplies. Using an HP Common Slot (CS) server power supply, which can often be found for under $50, this setup can deliver over 50 amps at 12 volts. This is particularly useful for projects that require a lot of current without breaking the bank.
Use MicroPython to Add a Custom Sensor to a Robot Kit
The article discusses a project that enhances the HP Robots Otto Kit by adding custom sound detection capabilities. Using two microphones, the modified robot can detect loud noises and turn towards the source, essentially giving it the ability to "hear." The project includes designing circuits and 3D-printed parts, along with programming the robot using MicroPython and the Thonny IDE.
Using the Arduino Uno Q to Build a DDS Sine Wave Generator
This article details a project that uses the Arduino Uno Q microcontroller to build a Direct Digital Synthesis (DDS) sine wave generator. The project demonstrates how to create a system that can generate precise analog signals digitally, which is useful in various applications such as signal processing and testing.
Tech Talkies Made a Voice-Controlled Robot Dog
Tech Talkies developed a voice-controlled robot dog using the Seeed XIAO ESP32S3 microcontroller and the ESP-Skainet for on-device speech recognition. This project allows users to interact with the robot without needing a cloud connection or a smartphone; simply say a wake word followed by a command. The robot dog can perform actions like sitting, lying down, stretching, walking, dancing, and even wagging its tail when praised with "good boy."
Fashionably on Task: a Smart Bracelet for Forgetfulness #Wearable
The article introduces a unique smart bracelet designed to help users manage their daily tasks. Built by CMoz for the Instructables Jewellery Competition, this wearable combines style and functionality, featuring exposed circuitry on a brass frame and a tri-color ePaper display. The bracelet is powered by an ESP32 microcontroller, enabling Wi-Fi connectivity and allowing users to keep track of up to five important to-dos.
Build a tiny network-wide ad blocker #Raspberrypi
RelfWolf created a network-wide ad blocker using a Raspberry Pi and a tool called Pi-hole. This setup effectively blocks ads and tracking across all devices connected to your network—like phones, tablets, and smart TVs—without needing browser extensions or ongoing subscriptions. The project aims to enhance privacy by reducing the number of tracking domains that devices connect to.
Building the OG Xbox That Should Have Been
Macho Nacho Productions has recreated the original Xbox prototype, which was famously a large aluminum X shape, in a more accessible form. This new version is a 3D-printable DIY project that retains the dimensions of the original console but is made from plastic—a much more practical choice for hobbyists compared to the costly metal version.
No-Code Seedling Frost Alert and New WipperSnapper Components. What’s new with Adafruit IO and the Adafruit Learning System.
Adafruit recently introduced a no-code Seedling Frost Alert device using the QT Py ESP32-S3 and Adafruit IO. This project helps protect seedlings from unexpected frost by glowing blue when freezing temperatures are predicted. It also sends a text message to remind you to bring your plants indoors, making it a handy tool for gardeners.
John Park’s CircuitPython Parsec: DAC Volume Control
John Park's latest project focuses on controlling audio volume using a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) with an analog potentiometer and I2C communication. This setup allows you to smoothly adjust the audio output level in your CircuitPython projects. The project is straightforward, making it ideal for hobbyists looking to enhance their audio applications without diving too deep into complex circuitry.
Miauwceiver Syncs Stage Lighting and DIY Robotics
Miauwceiver is a versatile device designed to bridge the gap between professional stage lighting systems and DIY robotics. Built around an ESP32 microcontroller and a LumenRadio TimoTwo CRMX module, it can both transmit and receive CRMX wireless signals. This allows users to convert lighting control data into various protocols like Art-Net, sACN, OSC, and MIDI, all while interfacing with hardware through I2C, UART, SPI, and GPIO.
The Easy Way to Make Wireless LEDs for Fun and Profit
Wireless LEDs are compact light-emitting diodes that operate without visible power sources, utilizing inductive power transfer, similar to how some smartphones charge wirelessly. Myth Made has put together a straightforward guide for creating these wireless LEDs at a minimal cost. The design includes a small SMD (surface-mount device) coil, an SMD LED, and an SMD capacitor to ensure smooth power delivery.
Programming MEC16xx Embedded Controllers
The article discusses programming the MEC16xx series of embedded controllers, which are used in various applications to manage hardware and perform specific tasks. The author provides detailed insights into the programming methods, tools, and libraries that can facilitate working with these controllers, making it easier for engineers and hobbyists to integrate them into their projects.
AERIS-10 Brings Long-Distance Radar Scanning to the Maker Community
Nawfal Motii has created the AERIS-10, an open-source radar system that brings long-distance scanning capabilities to the maker community at a fraction of the cost of commercial alternatives. Traditional hobbyist radar modules typically have a limited range of only a few meters, but AERIS-10 extends that capability to over 20 kilometers while costing up to 95% less than commercial systems, which can run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Matteo Fenu's Raspberrarium Turns Two LEDs Into a Convincing Day-Night and Lunar Cycle Simulator
Matteo Fenu has created an innovative project called Raspberrarium, which uses a Raspberry Pi and two WS2812 programmable LEDs to simulate realistic day-night and lunar cycles for terrariums. This system is particularly useful for small enclosed ecosystems that lack natural light, as it mimics the full spectrum of daylight and the phases of the moon.
NEW LEARN GUIDE: Adafruit MAX44009 Lux Light Sensor #Adafruit Products #AdafruitLearningSystem @Adafruit
The Adafruit MAX44009 is a versatile lux light sensor designed for a wide range of lighting conditions, from near darkness to bright sunlight. It features an impressive 22-bit dynamic range, which means it can automatically adjust its settings to provide accurate lux readings without requiring manual adjustments for integration time or gain.
Your Next Weekend Project: A Fully Offline, Voice-Activated Robot Dog
Tech Talkies has created a fun weekend project: a fully offline, voice-activated robot dog named Jolly. This project is designed for hobbyists looking to dive into robotics using accessible hardware. Jolly runs entirely on-device, responding to voice commands without the need for cloud services, which enhances both speed and privacy.
Touch Pi: a Pi Art Generator (ESP32 Touchscreen)
The Touch Pi project is an innovative device that turns the mathematical constant π (pi) into a dynamic visual experience. Created by The Debunker and showcased on Instructables, it utilizes an ESP32 microcontroller paired with a 4.0” touchscreen display to generate real-time art based on the digits of pi. Each digit influences various elements of the artwork, such as motion, color, and geometry, resulting in continuously evolving patterns that never repeat.
USB for Software Developers: an introduction to writing userspace USB drivers
The article introduces a guide on writing userspace USB drivers, simplifying what can often seem like an intimidating task. It emphasizes that developing a driver for a USB device isn't as complex as it might first appear, comparing it to writing applications that use sockets. This perspective makes it more approachable for those who may not have extensive hardware experience.
Using DVI and sound on the RISC-V side of the Raspberry Pi Pico 2
Linus has been working with the Raspberry Pi Pico 2, specifically utilizing the RISC-V side of the chip instead of the usual Arm core. He’s integrated a DVI (Digital Visual Interface) sock board along with custom audio circuitry to create impressive graphics paired with sound. This project showcases the capabilities of the RISC-V architecture in handling multimedia output.