why
Wednesday 14 January 2026
1 versions
Why do we use these parts? ¶
Micro-Controllers ¶
Raspberry-Pi-Pico:
- 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
| Model | Processor | RAM | Flash | Cores | Clock speed | WLAN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pico | RP2040 | 264KB | 2MB | 2x ARM Cortex-M0+ | 133MHz | no |
| Pico-W | RP2040 | 264KB | 2MB | 2x ARM Cortex-M0+ | 133MHz | yes |
| Pico2 | RP2350 | 520KB | 4MB | 2x ARM Cortex-M33 | 150MHz | no |
| Pico2-W | RP2350 | 520KB | 4MB | 2x ARM Cortex-M33 | 150MHz | yes |
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)
- CircuitPython documentation
- Adafruit libraries
- Community libraries
- 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”