Introduction
As a hardware engineer, it's always have difficulties to coding in python than C.Plus,I'm a fan of Raspberry Pi's hardware. So when they release the pico w and when i saw the schematic for it. I was thinking well I should build one module based on that architecture with below several reasons
- Keep motivated on learn circuitpython.
- Learn how to design a compact module.
- improve the skill of tuning the antenna.
- gain more on how to design a product.
- I name it pico wm (pico w means its a variant of official Raspberry Pi pico w and m means it's a module) So there is. I made it work even at the first verison. And optimized a little bit on v0.0.2. Probably there is a v0.0.3 if I find out something that need to get improved.
Features:
- use the same wifi chip(infineon CY43439) and circuitry like pico w. So wirelss function api is exactly the same(not like most of the rp2040+esp solution on market)
- Flash size is the same like pico w (16Mb)
- 6 layer board design with a complete ground on bottom layer. Improved the signal integraty. But also increased the costs -:(
- compact size(28.5x17.5mm), so that it can be suitable for most of the situation.
- All the GPIO had been exposed at the bottom side in a LGA footprint.
- 50ohm impedance achieved for the RF trace.
- onboard WiFi/BLE antenna.But obviously not as good as official pico w for now -:(
- Reserved for a top shield cover feature.
- all the vias on the pcb is filled plating.
- optimize the power topology, make it easier to design the carrier board based on this module.
- Ofcourse totally open-sourced.
Limitations:
- The only limitation for this module would be the RF performance, Still need more time to tuning it.
- And because I need to make sure the module is functioning well after SMT, so I didnot populate the shield cover yet.
considering support me?
Building the module definitley take time and energy. And also it's cost a lot. As the module itself is a six layer board and I'm using the expensive Infineon chip. So I would appreciate anyone who can support me by purchase it from this link
Attentions:
- This is just a module. So need customer build a carrier board for it.
- Those who interested in this module can use the picoduino as a start point and use the pico w m schematic and pcb lib from that picoduino open source file.
- I will also build a feather compatible one later.