Rising Edge Digital
Hardware & Embedded Systems for Software Developers
Make a DIY Pocket LED Gamer – Tiny Tetris!
The article details a DIY project for building a pocket-sized LED gaming device called Tiny Tetris. This handheld console lets you play classic games like Tetris and Snake, as well as a simple paint program. You can navigate through the game options using left and right buttons, and once you select a game, you can tweak settings like brightness while holding down the center button.
Dynamic CPU Power Management with cpufreq and schedutil
The article discusses how the cpufreq subsystem in the Linux kernel, particularly its advanced governor called schedutil, enables efficient Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling (DVFS). This technology allows the operating system to adjust CPU frequency and voltage dynamically based on the workload, optimizing power consumption and performance.
John Park’s CircuitPython Parsec: Trellis Wordle Scoreboard
John Park's latest project involves creating a pixel-art scoreboard for the popular game Wordle using the NeoTrellis, a hardware platform designed for interactive projects, along with CircuitPython, a version of Python tailored for microcontrollers. This project showcases how to integrate fun design elements into a simple game scorekeeper while also providing a practical example of using hardware in a creative way.
Convenience Gone Wrong: A C++ auto Story
The article discusses a frustrating debugging experience the author had while working with C++ and the `auto` keyword. While revisiting a driver for a sensor, he encountered incorrect readings that turned out to be caused by a simple mistake: he forgot to include an ampersand (`&`) when declaring an `auto` variable. This oversight resulted in a local copy of a calibration data structure being created, which was then destroyed at the end of the function, leaving the actual calibration data empty.
EEVblog 1735 – Power Rail Probing & Oscilloscope DC Offset EXPLAINED
This article from EEVblog dives into the nuances of measuring DC power rail waveforms using oscilloscopes, particularly focusing on the offset control feature. It compares various probing methods, including Active Probes, Passive Probes, Zero Ohm (Z0) Probes, and specialized DC Power Rail Probes. The video provides practical insights into selecting the right probe for high-bandwidth measurements while discussing the potential pitfalls of input referred offset.
Turn your Raspberry Pi into an AI agent with OpenClaw
OpenClaw is an open-source AI agent that enhances traditional chatbots by allowing them to perform tasks and actions instead of just responding to prompts. While generative AI tools like ChatGPT can simulate conversation and generate text, they typically require users to execute actions themselves. OpenClaw changes this dynamic by enabling an AI to interact with tools, run commands, and manage workflows autonomously.
Arduino UNO Q solves the classic resistor pile issue
The Arduino UNO Q has been transformed into a clever resistor sorting machine by Zach Hipps, tackling the common problem of managing loose resistors. Instead of sifting through a messy bin, users can simply present a resistor to a camera connected to the UNO Q. The system analyzes the resistor’s color bands to determine its resistance value, making it easy to sort them back into their respective groups.
Creating the World’s Most Efficient Quadcopter Drone
[Luke Maximo Bell] is working on creating the world's most efficient quadcopter drone, aiming to break the endurance record currently held at 3 hours and 11 minutes. Inspired by his previous experience with a solar-powered quadcopter, he is focused on maximizing performance per watt, which involves a careful balance of weight, power output, and design.
Professor Bubbleton’s Breathing Head in a Jar #Sensors #AdafruitLearningSystem @Adafruit
Professor Bubbleton’s Breathing Head in a Jar is a quirky project that combines art and technology to create a captivating display for your curiosities cabinet. The project uses a Circuit Playground Express (CPX) microcontroller along with an air pump and CircuitPython code to animate a 3D printed head that glows and simulates breathing bubbles when tapped.
Putting a modern NVMe SSD drive on a vintage computer PCI bus
O_MORES on Reddit has come up with a clever solution to connect a modern NVMe solid-state drive (SSD) to a vintage computer that only has PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) slots. The process involves using an M.2-to-PCIe Add-in Card (AIC) to house the NVMe SSD. This AIC is then inserted into a PCIe-to-PCI adapter, allowing it to fit into the older PCI slot on the motherboard. Although PCI and PCIe have different pinouts and are physically distinct, they can be used together because they are logically compatible.
Open-source Real-time Driver MOD for the LEGO Orrery
Görkem Bozkurt has created an open-source modification for the LEGO Orrery, which is a model that illustrates the positions of celestial bodies in the solar system. This mod features a custom printed circuit board (PCB) that can be directly affixed to a NEMA17 stepper motor. By replacing the manual crank with this setup, users can control the Orrery’s movement with ease, only needing to remove five LEGO pieces to install it.
Secret Knock Activated Drawer Lock #adafruitlearnsystem
The Secret Knock Activated Drawer Lock is a fun DIY project that allows you to unlock a drawer using a specific pattern of knocks. Instead of a traditional key, this lock utilizes a hidden mechanism that responds to a sequence of taps, making it discreet and engaging. A solenoid latch secures the drawer, while a piezo buzzer detects the knock pattern. A small microcontroller, the Trinket, processes the knocks and compares them to a pre-set secret pattern to grant access.
NEW GUIDE: Adafruit SGP41 Multi-Pixel Gas Sensor Breakout #AdafruitLearningSystem @Adafruit
The Adafruit SGP41 Multi-Pixel Gas Sensor Breakout is a sophisticated air quality sensor designed to measure both volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). This sensor, developed by Sensirion, integrates multiple metal-oxide sensing and heating elements into one chip, eliminating the need to handle the heater and analog readings manually. The breakout uses I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) for communication, making it straightforward to connect to a variety of microcontrollers.
The Raspberry Pi as a Studio Camera
The article discusses a project by Martijn Braam, who is building a studio camera using a Raspberry Pi 5, touchscreen, and an HD camera module. The setup is housed in a basic wooden box, but the highlight of the project is the custom software he developed. This software creates a low-latency graphical user interface (GUI) that outputs via HDMI, allowing one output to show the GUI and another to display the raw video feed. This design is particularly useful for integrating with video mixing equipment, like OBS Studio.
Coming Soon – Adafruit AS7343 14-Channel Multi-Spectral Sensor Breakout
The Adafruit AS7343 is a new 14-channel multi-spectral sensor breakout that enhances the capabilities of its predecessor, the AS7341. This updated version now includes 12 channels that range from visible light into near-infrared (380nm to 1000nm), along with clear and flicker detection. It maintains the same footprint and pinout as the AS7341, making it easy to integrate into existing projects without needing to modify wiring or enclosures.
Serial Studio: see data from Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and other devices in real-time
Serial Studio is a versatile tool that allows you to visualize data from various devices like Arduino, ESP32, and Raspberry Pi in real-time. It supports multiple communication protocols, including serial ports (UART), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and TCP/UDP networks. You can create custom dashboards to monitor sensors and troubleshoot hardware without needing to write any code.
NEW LEARN GUIDE: Tiny Wiki for CircuitPython #CircuitPython #AdafruitLearningSystem @Adafruit
Tiny Wiki is a lightweight web server designed to run on microcontrollers, providing a minimalistic Wiki system backed by markdown files. Originally developed by Kevin McAleer for MicroPython devices, this guide introduces a version tailored for CircuitPython, specifically using Adafruit's HTTPServer and TemplateEngine libraries. While it was designed for the Adafruit Fruit Jam, it can also be adapted for other CircuitPython devices equipped with WiFi and a microSD card.
This LEGO alarm clock is as loud as a rocket launch
Milos Rasic created a unique alarm clock using LEGO's NASA Artemis Space Launch System kit, which is designed to be as loud as a rocket launch. The project involves a 3D-printed launch pad that houses an Arduino UNO R4 WiFi board, which controls the clock and the alarm function. The board displays the time on an LED matrix and operates a stepper motor to simulate the rocket launch mechanism.
A modern 6502 based laptop design
Paula Maddox designed a fully custom laptop around the classic 6502 microprocessor, a chip that has a nostalgic place in computing history. With her project, known as LT6502, she set out to create a portable device that pays homage to retro computing while incorporating modern conveniences. This isn't just about building a laptop; it's about reimagining the computing experience of the past for today's world.
A program to monitor serial ports in Windows
Monitoring serial ports on Windows can feel like a frustrating scavenger hunt, especially for those of us coming from a software background. You plug in a device, like an Arduino board or a USB-to-serial adapter, and suddenly you're faced with the challenge of figuring out which COM (Communication) port it’s attached to. This is a common scenario that Lucadentella experienced, leading to the creation of a nifty little Python program called SerialPortMonitor.
CircuitPython 10.1.0 Released!
CircuitPython, a version of Python tailored for tiny microcontroller boards, has just rolled out its latest stable release, version 10.1.0. This release isn’t a huge leap forward but combines previous beta versions into a polished package. For those of you diving into embedded systems, CircuitPython makes it much easier to interface with hardware using Python syntax, so if you're comfortable with Python, you’re in for a treat when working with microcontrollers!
Reverse engineering the Dash learning robot
Jonathan Diamond recently took on the challenge of reverse engineering a Dash learning robot, which he stumbled upon at a thrift shop. His goal was to enhance the existing open-source interface for this quirky little robot, making it more accessible for developers like you. Using Ghidra, a powerful reverse engineering tool, he dove back into the original programming of the Dash, aiming to unlock its capabilities and make it easier to control.
A Novelty Clock Makes The Best Tiny Mac Yet
In 2026, the world of single-board computers has made it possible to emulate classic machines from the 1990s, including the iconic Apple Macintosh. A particularly clever project by [This Does Not Compute] showcases how a novelty alarm clock, modeled after an early Mac, has been transformed into a functional Mac emulator. This project taps into the nostalgia of the 68000 era, which many software developers may recognize as a pivotal moment in computing history.
Object detection with Ultralytics YOLO26 on Raspberry Pi
Ultralytics YOLO26 is making waves in the world of object detection, particularly for makers using the Raspberry Pi. This exciting technology allows you to identify and classify objects in images and videos efficiently. With the release of YOLO26n, a variant designed for speed and accuracy, you can easily integrate this powerful model into your Raspberry Pi projects, creating systems that can react to their surroundings in real-time.
Project Aura – A neat, easy-to-assemble, DIY Air quality monitor compatible with Home Assistant
Project Aura is a fascinating DIY air quality monitor that leverages the capabilities of the ESP32-S3 microcontroller. This neat little project combines a touchscreen display with industrial-grade sensors to provide real-time data on air quality, all while being fully compatible with Home Assistant, an open-source platform for home automation. What makes this project stand out is its simplicity; you don’t need to be a soldering whiz or have advanced electronics skills to get it up and running. Instead of assembling a custom circuit board, you’ll be connecting off-the-shelf components via cables, making it accessible for software developers dipping their toes into hardware.
Microfluidic Display Teaches The Basics
Soiboi has created an intriguing project that dives into the world of microfluidics by designing a multiplexed dot matrix display using silicone and a vacuum. Instead of relying on traditional electronic components, this display uses air to control the flow of liquid, demonstrating how you can design systems that operate on fluidic logic. It’s a fascinating shift from the usual bits and bytes, and it showcases a creative way to visualize data without conventional electronics.
Building a Desk Sized Kodak Photo Kiosk
Snappiness has built a mini Kodak Picture Maker that fits right on their desk, and it's a pretty cool project that showcases the blend of hardware and software. This compact photo kiosk not only prints photos but also serves as a neat conversation starter for anyone venturing into the world of embedded systems and hardware tinkering. If you’re a software developer looking to dip your toes into hardware, this project is a fantastic example of how electronics and programming can come together seamlessly.
Here’s Our First Gemini Deep Think LLM-Assisted Hardware Design
Adafruit has taken a leap into the world of hardware design by utilizing a language model (LLM) to assist in creating a library for the MAX44009 lux sensor. This breakthrough showcases how AI can streamline the hardware design process, particularly for software developers venturing into embedded systems. Instead of manually creating a component in CAD software, the team fed the sensor's datasheet into the Gemini Deep Think model. The result? A perfectly formatted EagleCAD library file generated in about ten minutes, complete with pin assignments, dimensions, and features like the all-important pin 1 dot. This kind of automation could save engineers countless hours in their design workflows.
Adafruit Weekly Editorial Round-Up: Full-circle Test-driven Firmware Development with OpenClaw, Hacking Yoto Music Players, & More
Adafruit's latest editorial round-up dives into some exciting projects that bridge the gap between software and hardware, perfect for developers looking to expand their skill set into the world of embedded systems. One highlight is the exploration of full-circle test-driven firmware development with OpenClaw, a framework that helps streamline the creation of reliable firmware. It emphasizes the importance of testing at each stage of development, creating a robust process that mirrors the practices software developers are already familiar with.
From PDF to .LBR: Using Deep Think to Write Custom CAD Parts
Creating custom component libraries for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) tools used in hardware design can often feel like a daunting task for software developers venturing into the world of embedded systems. The blog post dives into an innovative approach using Gemini Deep Think, an AI model from Google, to streamline this process. By simply feeding datasheets into this AI, developers can generate production-ready library files (specifically .lbr files for EAGLE, a popular PCB design software) without needing to interact with a graphical CAD interface. This can save a ton of time and eliminate the tedious manual work that typically comes with creating footprints and schematic symbols from scratch.
John Park’s CircuitPython Parsec: Trellis Line Fill
John Park has created an intriguing project using CircuitPython, which is a version of Python specifically designed to run on microcontroller boards. His latest adventure involves filling a line of NeoPixels—those colorful addressable LEDs—between two points on NeoTrellis driver boards, which are designed for interactive projects. If you're new to hardware, think of NeoTrellis as a grid of buttons or pads that can light up in various colors and respond to touch, making it a fun interface for DIY electronics.
Mimiclaw is an OpenClaw-like AI assistant for ESP32-S3 boards
MimiClaw is an innovative AI assistant designed specifically for ESP32-S3 boards, providing a unique way to control hardware through simple text messages. Inspired by the earlier OpenClaw project, MimiClaw acts as a bridge between the Telegram messaging application and the Claude online large language model (LLM), allowing you to interact with your hardware just by chatting. This project is part of a trend where lightweight AI solutions are being adapted for microcontrollers, making advanced capabilities accessible even on smaller devices.
Building the ultimate turntable for 3D scanning
Chris Borge recently took on the challenge of building a robust turntable for 3D scanning, addressing a common issue that many 3D scanners face: their accompanying turntables are often flimsy and unstable. Borge, known for his innovative machine tools in the YouTube maker community, opted for a practical yet creative solution that blends 3D printing with concrete for added stability. The result is a turntable that not only enhances the scanning process but also serves as a versatile tool for videography.
The MicroBox is a handheld game console that runs on an Arduino UNO R4
Szymon Kubica has created an exciting project that merges software development with hardware design: the MicroBox, a handheld game console powered by the Arduino UNO R4. If you’re a software developer dipping your toes into the hardware world, this is a fascinating example of how you can leverage the capabilities of your Arduino board, which features a Renesas RA4M1 Cortex-M4 microcontroller. With this setup, you can run various games and explore the intersection of coding and electronics.
A weather station built specifically for model rocket launches
Markus Bindhammer created a portable weather station tailored for model rocket launches, demonstrating that weather can make or break a launch, just like it does for NASA or SpaceX. This innovative device measures six essential weather metrics: temperature, humidity, air pressure, altitude, wind speed, and wind direction, all in real time at the launch site. Instead of relying on external sources, Bindhammer's setup ensures he has the most accurate data right when he needs it.
8 Track MIDI Sequencer on Adafruit PyGamer
Paul Cunningham has created an impressive 8-track MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) sequencer using the Adafruit PyGamer, a fun handheld gaming device. This project stands out not just for its creativity but also for how it pushes the boundaries of what you can do with the PyGamer's hardware. Paul dove into this project while snowed in, and it’s a great showcase of how CircuitPython, a version of Python designed for small microcontroller boards, can be utilized to bring musical ideas to life.
Add a tiny desktop monitor to your PC with the ESP32 Desktop Monitor project
The TENSTAR T-Display ESP32-D0WD is a compact board that packs a punch, offering a 1.14-inch IPS (In-Plane Switching) color LCD and 16MB of QSPI (Quad Serial Peripheral Interface) flash memory. This little device is gaining popularity among makers and developers looking to add a tiny secondary monitor to their PCs. With features like a USB-to-TTL (Universal Serial Bus to Transistor-Transistor Logic) converter, a battery charging circuit, and programmable buttons, it’s versatile enough for various projects, from home automation dashboards to gaming controllers. Interestingly, despite its simple hardware specifications, over 10,000 units have been sold, primarily due to the ESP32 Desktop Monitor project that transforms this board into a functional mini monitor.
Wired to Wireless: ESP32 Gives Your USB Keyboard Bluetooth
Imagine taking your trusty USB keyboard and transforming it into a Bluetooth-enabled device, allowing you to type wirelessly on your smartphone or tablet. This is precisely what the ESP32-S3 microcontroller accomplishes in a recent project by [KoStard]. By bridging the gap between wired and wireless technology, this innovative setup enhances the versatility of your keyboard and expands its usability across various devices, making it a significant advancement for anyone looking to integrate hardware with existing tools.
John Park’s CircuitPython Parsec: Circuit Playground Bluefruit iPhone Intervalometer
Imagine capturing the perfect shot with your iPhone without needing to press the shutter button yourself. John Park's latest project, the Circuit Playground Bluefruit iPhone Intervalometer, leverages the power of CircuitPython to turn your smartphone into a remote camera. This innovative tool not only simplifies photography but also serves as a fantastic introduction to the world of hardware development for software engineers. Understanding how to integrate software and hardware opens up a realm of possibilities, allowing you to create unique and interactive projects that merge both disciplines.
John Park’s CircuitPython Parsec: Circuit Playground Bluefruit iPhone Intervalometer
Imagine being able to control your iPhone's camera remotely, setting it to take photos at specified intervals, all through a fun and hands-on hardware project. This is exactly what John Park's CircuitPython Parsec tutorial offers with the Circuit Playground Bluefruit: an intervalometer that allows you to automate photography tasks. This project not only showcases the potential of CircuitPython but also demonstrates how software developers can bridge the gap between coding and hardware, making it an exciting endeavor for anyone looking to expand their skill set.
Spin up virtual machines instantly with exe.dev
In today’s fast-paced development environment, having instant access to virtual machines can be a game changer for software developers diving into hardware and embedded systems. exe.dev offers a subscription service that allows you to spin up virtual machines with persistent disks almost instantaneously. This means you can focus on your project rather than managing infrastructure, just like you would with a cloud-based IDE that abstracts away server management.
Joypad OS universal game controller firmware
Joypad OS is an open-source universal game controller firmware that enables developers to create adapters allowing game controllers to be used across different gaming platforms. Imagine being able to connect an Xbox 360 controller to a GameCube—this is the kind of compatibility Joypad OS brings to the table. This project is spearheaded by Robert Dale Smith, known for his extensive work on various Adafruit guides. Joypad OS serves as a foundational layer for developers looking to extend the capabilities of game controllers, making it a significant asset in the realm of embedded systems.
The Defunct Scooter Company, and the Default Key
In the world of embedded systems and hardware, lessons can be learned from unexpected places. The story of the defunct Estonian scooter company Äike highlights the importance of security in IoT devices and the implications of poor design decisions when manufacturers go out of business. With the app and cloud services for these scooters no longer functioning, a developer took it upon themselves to reverse engineer the scooter's system, leading to a significant discovery that underscores the need for better practices in hardware security.
The Python on Microcontrollers Newsletter: subscribe for free
If you're a software developer dipping your toes into the world of hardware and embedded systems, the Python for Microcontrollers Newsletter is a fantastic resource that can help bridge that gap. Think of it as your weekly sprint review, but instead of just code, you get insights into how Python is being utilized in the realm of microcontrollers and single-board computers like the Raspberry Pi. This newsletter serves as a hub for all things Python on hardware, ensuring you stay updated on the latest trends, projects, and innovations in this rapidly evolving field.
Embedded TPM: Watch Out!
In the rapidly evolving world of embedded systems, understanding the role of Trusted Platform Modules (TPM) is becoming increasingly crucial, especially for software developers venturing into hardware. TPMs are security devices that ensure the integrity of devices, much like how software developers use checksums or hashes to verify data integrity in their applications. With modern operating systems, like Windows, requiring TPM for installation, knowledge of these modules is essential for anyone working with hardware, particularly if you aim to repurpose consumer electronics.
3D printed breadboards optimized for Raspberry Pi Pico and ESP32 boards
In the evolving world of hardware development, the integration of 3D printing with traditional prototyping tools like breadboards offers an exciting innovation for developers looking to dive into embedded systems. The article discusses the creation of 3D printed breadboards specifically optimized for popular microcontroller boards, the Raspberry Pi Pico and the ESP32. This development is significant because it addresses common frustrations faced by developers: lack of space and usability when connecting components to these boards on standard breadboards.
A 1970s Electronic Game
What happens when a traditional board game company decides to venture into the realm of electronic gaming? In the case of the UK-based Waddingtons in 1978, the outcome was the Waddingtons 2001 "The Game Machine," an early attempt at merging classic board game mechanics with electronic technology. This intriguing piece of gaming history serves as both a nostalgic artifact and a source of inspiration for modern developers venturing into hardware and embedded systems. Understanding the principles behind such innovations can offer valuable insights into the evolution of gaming technology and user experience.
Florida Museum biological specimens and cultural heritage objects #3DThursday #3DPrinting
In the world of technology, the intersection of software and hardware is where innovation thrives. The Florida Museum's initiative to digitize biological specimens and cultural heritage objects through 3D printing highlights the importance of this crossover. By making these models available for download on platforms like MorphoSource, the museum not only preserves valuable data but also opens up a realm of possibilities for developers interested in hardware applications. This initiative is a testament to how physical artifacts can be represented in the digital realm, creating a bridge between disciplines that traditionally operate in silos.
I reverse engineered the iPhone Pocket #3DThursday #3DPrinting
In a fascinating exploration of innovation, the article dives into the reverse engineering of Apple’s iPhone Pocket, showcasing the intersection of technology and creativity. This endeavor, shared by the YouTube channel KnitFactoryImpl, emphasizes the ability to dissect and recreate a commercially successful product using vintage technology. For software developers, this not only highlights the engineering principles behind hardware design but also illustrates the relevance of understanding hardware in an increasingly integrated tech landscape.
IKEA SKÅDIS Wire Spool Holder – with Flip-Open Lid #3DThursday #3DPrinting
If you’re a software developer venturing into the world of hardware and embedded systems, you might find yourself grappling with the chaos of wires in your workspace. The article on the IKEA SKÅDIS Wire Spool Holder presents a practical solution to this common problem, showcasing how a simple 3D printed holder can help you organize your wire spools neatly. This is a significant step toward creating a more efficient environment for your electronic projects, much like how organizing your codebase can streamline your software development process.