Rising Edge Digital
Hardware & Embedded Systems for Software Developers
Using a Fiber Laser to Etch 0.1 mm PCB Traces
The article discusses an innovative approach to creating high-resolution printed circuit boards (PCBs) using a fiber laser. [Giangix] has been experimenting with etching 0.1 mm traces on thin copper-clad boards, a task that typical DIY methods struggle to achieve with the same precision as commercial production lines. By employing a 20 Watt fiber laser and a custom vacuum table to secure the boards, [Giangix] is able to engrave the chemical resist layer with impressive accuracy.
Dune 3D – parametric 3D CAD supporting STEP import/export, fillets and chamfers
Dune 3D is a new open-source parametric 3D CAD application that allows users to import and export STEP files, as well as create fillets and chamfers in their designs. It was developed out of a need for a more user-friendly CAD tool, particularly for designing 3D-printed enclosures for electronics projects. The creator found existing options like FreeCAD and Solvespace lacking in certain areas, such as user experience and essential features.
Book Electronics for Kids, 2nd Edition, is out this May
The article announces the upcoming release of the second edition of *Electronics for Kids*, written by Øyvind Nydal Dahl, set to hit shelves in May. This updated version is designed to introduce young learners (ages 10 and up) to the fundamentals of electronics through a series of engaging projects. It covers essential concepts like electricity, circuit behavior, and the roles of components such as resistors and capacitors.
A dual-core audio engine for the Raspberry Pi RP2040
PicoSound is a dual-core audio engine designed specifically for the Raspberry Pi Pico, which uses the RP2040 microcontroller. The setup leverages the dual-core architecture by assigning Core1 exclusively to handle audio processing, while Core0 manages the main application tasks like graphics, input/output, calculations, or game logic. This separation helps prevent audio dropouts that can occur during heavy processing or blocking operations, ensuring continuous audio playback.
Impress Your Egg Hunters with Bunny Ears Using MakeCode #Easter #Wearable
Erin St. Blaine has put together a fun project for Easter: motion-reactive bunny ears that light up, using the Circuit Playground Express and MakeCode. This project is perfect for a family activity, as it involves a bit of soldering, some hand sewing, and programming the ears to react as you hop around.
An unofficial MicroPython port of the Sunfish Chess Engine
The article introduces an unofficial port of the Sunfish Chess Engine, called micropython-uSunfish, developed by GitHub user fizban99. This version is designed to run on MicroPython, a lightweight implementation of Python for microcontrollers, and has been tested specifically on the ESP32-S3 microcontroller. However, it’s not very demanding in terms of memory, meaning it should also work well on the standard ESP32.
Ultimate Guide to Connecting 3D Printed Parts | Pins, Fins, Slots, & Snaps
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to effectively connect 3D printed parts using various techniques. It focuses on reliable methods that don't rely on perfect tolerances or complex support structures, which can often lead to weak connections. The video features practical designs like diamond pegs, slab-and-slot joints, spring-loaded T-slots, snap fits, and advanced locking tabs, showcasing their advantages over traditional connectors.
Building a Monitor Light Bar for Better Productivity
Jade built a custom monitor light bar designed to improve productivity and reduce eye strain during long work sessions. The setup utilizes an ESP32 microcontroller to manage the lighting, which consists of LED strips that can emit both warm and cold white light. A rotary encoder allows for manual brightness adjustment, and the entire system can integrate with Home Assistant, a popular home automation platform.
ICYMI Python on Microcontrollers Newsletter: AI Helping Your Development While Arduino T&Cs Grow Onerous and More! #CircuitPython #Python #micropython @ThePSF @Raspberry_Pi
This week's Python on Microcontrollers newsletter dives into how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance your development process without taking over. The focus is on practical applications, such as GitHub's new feature that scans for sensitive files in your code before you accidentally upload them, helping you avoid data leaks. The newsletter also highlights tools that connect your oscilloscope to your computer for better debugging with MicroPython, as well as AI's role in reviewing and documenting your projects.
Direct Pressure Advance Measurement For Fast Calibration
This article highlights a new automated pressure advance calibration tool developed by [markniu], designed to streamline the calibration process for 3D printers. Pressure advance (PA) is crucial for achieving high-quality prints, as it compensates for the pressure of the molten plastic in the hotend, which can lead to issues like oozing and blobbing. Traditional methods of calibrating PA often involve lengthy calibration prints, but this new approach measures pressure directly, making the process quicker and more efficient.
Hugging Face’s Reachy Mini is an open-source AI robot for your computer or Raspberry Pi CM4
Hugging Face has introduced the Reachy Mini, an open-source AI robot aimed at developers and hobbyists who want to interact with physical environments. This compact robot comes equipped with a camera, four microphones, and a speaker, and is capable of movement due to its six degrees of freedom head and nine servo motors that allow it to rotate and wave its antennas. There are two models available: the Reachy Mini Lite, which connects to Mac, Linux, and Windows computers, and the Reachy Mini Wireless, which operates autonomously on a Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4) and includes WiFi, Bluetooth, and battery support.
Disposable Vape Becomes Breath-Activated Synth
A maker named Becky Stern has transformed a disposable vape into a breath-activated synthesizer. Starting with an ElfBars BC5000 vape, she repurposed key components like the lithium polymer (LiPo) battery, USB charging board, and a low-pressure sensor. These parts were integrated with a 555 timer circuit, which generates sound based on the resistance of six photoresistors that detect light changes.
John Park’s CircuitPython Parsec: Trellis MIDI Velocity Meter
John Park's latest project is a USB MIDI velocity visualizer built using CircuitPython and the Neotrellis, a versatile matrix keypad designed for various applications. The project showcases how to visualize MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) velocity data through a matrix of illuminated buttons, making it easier for musicians to see how hard they are playing each note.
New: Remote updates on Raspberry Pi Connect
Raspberry Pi Connect has introduced a new feature that allows users to perform remote updates on their Raspberry Pi devices, making it easier to keep software up-to-date without needing to be physically present. This capability is particularly useful since it works behind firewalls and doesn't get disrupted by changes in IP addresses. While users can still update their devices through the usual methods, the remote over-the-air updates enable them to initiate updates without opening a Connect session, and even if the device is off, it will grab the update once it goes online.
NEW GUIDE: #CircuitPython on the Xteink X4 eReader #AdafruitLearningSystem @Adafruit
The article discusses how to run CircuitPython on the Xteink X4 eReader, a compact and slim device powered by the ESP32-C3 microcontroller. This eReader features a USB port that allows for serial communication over JTAG (Joint Test Action Group), which simplifies the process of loading alternative firmware without needing to dismantle the device.
Enabling MediaTek M7902 WiFi and Bluetooth drivers on Ubuntu 24.04 the easy way
The article discusses how to enable the MediaTek MT7902 WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.x drivers on Ubuntu 24.04. These drivers have recently been added to the mainline Linux kernel, specifically in version 7.0, which is great news for users of laptops like the ASUS Vivobook 16 that utilize this chipset. However, some users have been waiting for nearly two years for these drivers, prompting a user named "hmtheyboy154" to backport the drivers to work with older Linux kernel versions from 6.6 to 6.19.
Use an Arduino UNO R4’s DAC as a signal generator
The article explains how to use the Arduino UNO R4’s built-in Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) as a signal generator. This is particularly handy for those who need to create signals for testing electronic components without spending a fortune on dedicated equipment. The method works with both the Arduino UNO R4 WiFi and the UNO R4 Minima models, utilizing the DAC on pin A0, which provides a smooth analog output with 12-bit resolution.
NEW LEARN GUIDE: Adafruit TCS3430 / TCS34303 Ambient Tri-Stimulus Color Sensor #Adafruit Products #AdafruitLearningSystem @Adafruit
The Adafruit TCS3430 / TCS34303 is an ambient light tri-stimulus color sensor that offers a modern alternative to traditional RGB sensors. Instead of using RGB wavelengths, it employs CIE XYZ sensors along with an infrared (IR) diode, allowing for more accurate color matching to established color spaces. This sensor operates at specific wavelengths—437nm (X1), 574nm (X2), 537nm (Y), and 434nm (Z)—and requires users to calibrate it against a known color space analyzer for their specific applications.
Industrial RS-485/Modbus Raspberry Pi HAT works with OpenPLC, supports 7V-32V DC input
The Industrial RS-485/Modbus HAT is a new hardware accessory for Raspberry Pi boards, developed by EngineElectronicAccessories in Sweden. This HAT is tailored for industrial automation and monitoring applications, particularly in conjunction with the OpenPLC open-source programmable logic controller suite. It features an onboard RS-485 transceiver, which allows for robust long-distance communication, and includes protection against electrical transients with a TVS (Transient Voltage Suppressor) diode.
Constructing a Solar-Powered Snake Robot
The article details a project for building a solar-powered snake robot that operates without a battery. The design uses basic electronic components and features a 3D-printed chassis, making it accessible for hobbyists and makers interested in robotics and renewable energy.
5 fun sci-fi ideas you can bring to life with Arduino
The article highlights five imaginative sci-fi projects that you can create using Arduino, showcasing how this versatile platform can bring your favorite sci-fi concepts to life. Each project combines creativity with technical skills, making them perfect for fans looking to add a unique touch to their hobbies.
PycoClaw – A MicroPython-based OpenClaw implementation for ESP32 and other microcontrollers
PycoClaw is a new MicroPython-based implementation of the OpenClaw workspace for AI agents, designed to run on ESP32 and similar microcontrollers. Developed by Jonathan Peace, it builds on the capabilities of the earlier C-based Miniclaw, offering a "full OpenClaw-compliant agent" that connects with several large language model (LLM) providers like OpenAI and Gemini. The platform boasts features such as over-the-air (OTA) updates, battery optimization, and support for multiple interfaces, including Telegram and WebRTC.
Review of Open Nextion ESP32-S3-based HMI displays with the Arduino IDE and the ESP-IDF framework
ITEAD has introduced the Open Nextion line of HMI (Human-Machine Interface) displays, which are based on the ESP32-S3 microcontroller. This new series includes the ONX3248G035 with a 3.5-inch screen and the ONX2432G028 with a 2.8-inch screen. Unlike the original Nextion displays that rely on a dedicated software editor and UART communication, these new models integrate everything into one package, handling display control and wireless connectivity directly through the ESP32-S3.
NEW GUIDE: Adafruit STCC4 and SHT41 CO2, Temperature & Humidity Sensor #AdafruitLearningSystem @Adafruit
The Adafruit STCC4 is a compact sensor designed to measure CO₂ levels, along with temperature and humidity. It stands out because it uses thermal conductivity (TC) for gas measurement, a method that relies on the thermal properties of gases rather than traditional techniques like Non-Dispersive Infrared (NDIR) or photoacoustic methods. This makes it versatile enough to fit into various enclosures, making it ideal for a range of projects.
Power Control for a Busy Workbench
[Jeroen Brinkman] created a multi-way switch box to manage the power needs of his busy workbench. This project goes beyond a simple power strip; it incorporates microcontrollers to control relays, allowing each toggle switch to manage individual sockets. Additionally, it features status LEDs for visual feedback and a master switch for centralized control.
Diagnosing a Mysterious Fault with a Commodore 1541 Disk Drive
The article details the troubleshooting process of a faulty Commodore 1541 floppy disk drive, which was exhibiting a strange behavior: the activity LED blinked just once on power-up while the motor kept spinning. This confusing symptom prompted a deeper investigation into potential undocumented error codes, as the documented codes for this drive start at two flashes.
Building a Class 100 Semiconductor Cleanroom Inside a Shed
[Dr. Semiconductor] transformed a typical garden shed into a Class 100 cleanroom suitable for semiconductor manufacturing. This project showcases that the principles of cleanroom design apply just as effectively in a backyard setting as they do in high-tech fabrication facilities. The key components include HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration and maintaining positive air pressure, which keeps contaminants out.
Making a Poor Man’s Polaroid @raspberry_pi
The Poor Man's Polaroid is a DIY instant camera project that combines a Raspberry Pi Zero with a camera and a small thermal printer, similar to the ones used for printing receipts. While the photo quality doesn't match that of traditional Polaroid film, the results have their own quirky appeal. The project involves 3D printing the necessary parts and using Python to handle the code.
48×32, a 1536 LED game device
Jacques Mattheij created a game device using a 48×32 LED display, made by combining six 32×8 addressable LED panels. This project arose from a desire to shift his children's focus from passive gaming on their smartphones and laptops to something more interactive and creative. He used an Arduino R4 as the main controller along with standard wiring and connectors to assemble the hardware.
Orbigator is an open-source, physical satellite tracker
Orbigator is an open-source satellite tracker that allows you to physically follow satellites, like the International Space Station (ISS), in real-time. Built around the Raspberry Pi Pico 2 and equipped with precision DYNAMIXEL servos, it offers continuous tracking without the need to reset or unwind, thanks to its innovative rotating globe design.
Disassemble Z80 instructions by changing the font
Nevesnunes on GitHub has created a unique font that allows users to disassemble Z80 (Zilog Z80) instructions simply by changing the typeface. This innovative approach utilizes OpenType's Glyph Substitution Table (GSUB) and Glyph Positioning Table (GPOS) to convert sequences of hexadecimal characters directly into readable Z80 assembly code.
Flashing Yocto Images from MacOS
The article provides a step-by-step guide on how to flash Yocto images from a MacBook, primarily for those working with embedded systems. The author walks through the installation of `bmaptool`, a utility designed to copy disk images efficiently, using Homebrew. The specific commands for installing the tool and finding the target device are included, helping readers navigate the macOS terminal easily.
Opening the Flipper One source code repositories step by step
Flipper R&D has begun releasing the source code for the Flipper One device, starting with the MCU (Microcontroller Unit) firmware. This initial repository is now available on GitHub and can be found at the link provided in the article. The Flipper One features a dual-processor architecture, integrating both a low-power MCU and a high-performance Linux CPU.
Introducing Arduino® VENTUNO™ Q: your new AI, robotics, and actuation platform!
Arduino has unveiled the VENTUNO Q, a new single-board computer designed for AI, robotics, and actuation. This board features a dual-brain architecture that includes a Qualcomm Dragonwing IQ8 Series processor, which is optimized for AI tasks with NPU (Neural Processing Unit) acceleration, and an STM32H5 microcontroller for real-time control. With 16 GB of RAM and 64 GB of expandable storage, it’s built to handle complex multitasking while maintaining low-latency performance.
Turn your smartphone into a real-time vision input for Arduino® UNO™ Q
The Arduino IoT Remote App has introduced a feature that allows you to use your smartphone as a real-time camera input for the Arduino UNO Q board. This means you can stream high-resolution video directly from your phone to the board without needing any additional hardware, cloud setup, or cables. It simplifies the process of integrating computer vision into your projects, enabling faster prototyping.
Exploring the ocean with Raspberry Pi–powered marine robots
MDM Team is developing autonomous marine robots powered by the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4, aimed at facilitating underwater exploration and environmental monitoring. These robots, which include autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs) like Cariddi and micro-autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) like Stok, are designed to operate without human intervention, using advanced sensors and onboard computing for navigation and data collection.
Doomscroll without walking into poles with this handy device
The DOOMSCROLLER 3000 is a creative device designed to help smartphone users avoid walking into obstacles while engrossed in their screens. Created by Dylan Benzekry, this gadget attaches to your phone and utilizes sensors to detect nearby obstacles like poles and walls. When an obstacle is detected, it alerts the user with blinking lights and an audible alarm, guiding them to navigate safely without needing to look up.
NEW GUIDE: MIDI Breath Controller #AdafruitLearningSystem @Adafruit
Adafruit has released a guide on building a MIDI breath controller using the BMP585 air pressure sensor. This sensor is designed to measure air pressure changes, and in this project, it connects to a tube that captures breath input. The setup involves a QT Py RP2040 microcontroller running CircuitPython, which translates the pressure readings into MIDI Continuous Controller (CC) messages.
Build Your Own Clock With Analog Dials, Part 2
This article delves into the design of a unique clock that uses analog ammeters to display both time and temperature. It focuses on the second circuit crucial for timekeeping, detailing how it integrates with the overall clock system. The project leverages basic electronic components and principles to create an engaging and functional timepiece.
Cornell students’ 2025 Pico projects
Cornell University's Electrical and Computer Engineering students recently showcased their projects built around the Raspberry Pi Pico, a compact and versatile microcontroller. In the course "Digital Systems Design Using Microcontrollers," students create innovative and often playful applications using the RP2040 chip found in the Pico boards.
Implementing a clear room Z80 / ZX Spectrum emulator with Claude Code
Salvatore Sanfilippo, known as antirez, has developed a "clean room" emulator for the Z80 microprocessor and the ZX Spectrum, along with an emulator for CP/M. This approach emphasizes building the emulator from scratch based on high-level specifications rather than reverse engineering existing software. Antirez drafted a markdown document outlining the emulator's goals, such as executing complete instructions at once and accurately tracking clock cycles, which is particularly important for mimicking the ZX Spectrum's memory access behaviors.
Adapting the SpaceOrb 360 Controller for USB @Raspberry_Pi
Jacek Fedoryński has developed a project that retrofits the SpaceOrb 360 controller for modern USB use, allowing it to work with contemporary software and operating systems. This adaptation enables two main functionalities: it can simulate a 3Dconnexion SpaceMouse Pro for software like Fusion, 3ds Max, and SolidWorks, or it can function as a six-axis generic joystick suitable for games such as Descent.
Coreboot has been ported to the Thinkpad X270
Coreboot, an open-source firmware project aimed at replacing proprietary BIOS firmware, has been successfully ported to the Lenovo ThinkPad X270. The detailed process of this porting effort is documented by Kat at dork.dev, showcasing the steps taken to adapt Coreboot for this specific laptop model.
How to repair the Mashine Mikro MK3 Pads
The article provides a practical guide on repairing the touch pads of the Maschine Mikro MK3 MIDI controller. The author shares their personal experience with a malfunctioning pad, specifically PAD# 8, which wasn’t triggering consistently despite showing a MIDI signal in the Control Editor app. After determining it was a hardware issue, they decided to document the repair process since they couldn't find a specific tutorial for the Mikro version.
You can now use Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth® LE simultaneously on Arduino NINA-based boards! Here’s how
Arduino has announced a significant update for boards using the NINA-W102 module, like the MKR WiFi 1010, Nano RP2040 Connect, and Nano 33 IoT. Users can now run Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy (Bluetooth LE) simultaneously in the same sketch. Previously, due to hardware limitations, you had to choose one or the other, but this update eliminates that restriction, allowing for more versatile IoT applications.
Raspberry Pi Pico projects
The article highlights various projects that can be built using the Raspberry Pi Pico, a compact and affordable microcontroller board designed for low-power applications. It features several models, including the Pico W with wireless capabilities, making it versatile for different types of projects. Key features include analogue inputs and programmable input/output (PIO) state machines that help with handling tasks efficiently.
Simple D-STAR Transceiver Uses Inexpensive Hardware
[Yeckel] has developed a simple D-STAR (Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio) transceiver using affordable hardware, specifically the LilyGO TTGO T-Beam. This ESP32-based development board incorporates an SX1278 radio module and a GPS receiver, and it features a web interface for easy configuration. The project, called D-StarBeacon, allows for low-speed data transmission, making it possible to send text messages, GPS coordinates, and even images without needing a full-fledged radio setup.
Making a 286 Think It’s Alive Again
Nagy Krisztián has revived an Intel 286 CPU by creating a simulated system using a Raspberry Pi Pico. With just 68 pins to manage, the project involved wiring the CPU to the microcontroller, which emulates the other components the 286 expects to communicate with. The setup includes a PLCC-68 socket, an adapter PCB, a breadboard, and MCP23S17 logic expanders to increase I/O capability.
3D Printed Lithophane Lampshade – Tutorial
This article provides a tutorial on creating a 3D printed lithophane lampshade, using free online design software called itslitho.com and an IKEA STRÅLA table lamp base. The process involves converting any image into a lithophane, which can then be integrated into a custom lampshade, making it a unique decorative piece for your home or a thoughtful gift.
How RFID Labels Could Help Tackle $540B Food Waste Losses in 2026
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) labels are being highlighted as a potential solution to significantly reduce food waste, which is expected to cost the retail food sector around $540 billion by 2026. These labels can track food items throughout the supply chain, providing real-time data on their freshness and expiration dates. By improving visibility, retailers and consumers can make better decisions about inventory management and consumption, ultimately reducing the amount of food that goes to waste.