The open-source hardware scene just got a fresh new spark, and it comes in a remarkably tiny footprint. Say hello to PICO, a powerful, Arduino-compatible development board recently launched on Kickstarter by Vcc Labs — a dream come true for makers who crave compactness without compromise.
Measuring just 0.7" x 0.6" (17.78mm x 15.24mm), PICO packs an impressive punch for its size. Whether you're into building smart devices, wearable tech, robotics, or interactive installations, PICO provides an agile, robust platform to bring your ideas to life.
Powered by ATmega32U4
At its core, PICO runs on the ATmega32U4 microcontroller, known for its reliability and flexibility. It offers:
14 GPIO pins, supporting:
- ADC (Analog-to-Digital Conversion)
- PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)
- UART, SPI, and I2C protocols
This makes PICO a go-to board for diverse applications that need efficient IO handling in a small form factor.
Built-in Addressable LED
Need a touch of style or status indication? PICO comes with a WS2812 addressable RGB LED — just 1mm x 1mm — conveniently connected to pin D5. It's perfect for visual feedback, lighting effects, or creative interfaces.
Breadboard Friendly
Despite its size, PICO fits snugly onto a standard breadboard, streamlining your prototyping and testing process. No jump-wire gymnastics needed!
USB-C Connectivity
In line with modern trends, PICO features a USB-C port for fast, reversible, and reliable data and power connections. It’s the little details that elevate a board to a maker's favorite.
(Bonus: The Kickstarter creator jokes about spotting a fingerprint on the USB-C in one of the campaign shots — too excited with the new camera, perhaps? 😄)
Flexible Power Management
The onboard voltage regulator accepts 7–20V input, and outputs a stable 5V, making it suitable for a wide range of power sources and environments.
Fully Open Source
One of the most exciting aspects of PICO is its open-source philosophy. Once the campaign ends, Vcc Labs promises to release all design files — schematics, PCB layout, and source files — via GitHub. This transparency not only promotes innovation but encourages learning and community-driven development.
Technical Specifications:
- Microcontroller – Microchip ATmega32U4
- CPU – 8-bit AVR RISC-based microcontroller running up to 16 MHz
- Flash Memory – 32KB (with 4KB used by bootloader)
- SRAM – 2.5KB
- EEPROM – 1KB
GPIO – 14 General Purpose I/O pins
- Up to 12 Digital I/O
- Up to 6 PWM outputs
- Up to 6 Analog inputs (ADC)
- UART, SPI, and I2C support
- One pin (D5) connected to onboard addressable LED
LED
- 1x WS2812 RGB addressable LED (1mm x 1mm)
- Connected to digital pin D5
USB – USB Type-C connector for data and power
Power Supply
- Input voltage: 7V–20V via VIN pin\
- Onboard voltage regulator outputs 5V
- Also powered via USB-C port
Breadboard Compatibility – Fully compatible with standard breadboards
Dimensions – 17.78mm x 15.24mm (0.7" x 0.6")
Open Source – Fully open-source hardware
- Schematics, PCB layout, and design files will be released on GitHub post-campaign
Operating Temperature – 0°C to 70°C (typical indoor use)
PICO by Vcc Labs is a currently available on kickstarter with early bird price of $18, I see PICO as a great example of where the movement is headed: smaller, smarter, and more collaborative. It lowers the barrier for entry into embedded systems, while still satisfying the needs of advanced creators.
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