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gab-k / RP2040-Decoder

Cost effective DIY DCC Decoder for model railroad locomotives
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Add USB-C connector #14

Closed chatelao closed 4 months ago

chatelao commented 10 months ago

I love this project and think it has the potential to shake the Model-Railroad community.

The great thing about the RP2040 is the included permanent ROM uf2 Bootloader. Yes, adding a USB-C interface will cost some realestate, BUT would lower the bar for developers signifcantly, removing the need to understand SWD programming at all.

I think, as soon as the Software compiles in a Ardunino environment, the support of entry enthusiast will explode.

The "adafruit QT RP2040" may be a good source to copy-paste ideas?

gab-k commented 10 months ago

I agree and also thought about adding the USB connector before. If I have the time I might change the PCB with an optional USB connector on the back side in the future.

chatelao commented 10 months ago

It would be great - I tried to do it myself, but failed misarably.

I would like to try to add a Märklin (MM2) supported firmware version.

btw: Reading and Writing a config file with all CVs and Parameters over a USB-C could greatly simplyfing the process of decoder setup. Even sound files in a microcontroller compatible format could be added "drag n drop". I bet as soon as robust RP2040 will appear on the market, some business guys will sleep worse and many enthusiasts with "old" locomotives could start to upgrade their gear for a reasonable price, if the have ten or more locomotives (not my case at all, I just love electronics and railroads)