SB Components are set to launch another crowdfunding campaign, a Picoder based on our favorite microcontroller, the Raspberry Pi Pico. This time the project, labeled as a "Raspberry Pi Pico Learning Kit," is bundled with a series of live training sessions to make the most of the kit and the learning experience.
Picoder is a portable all-in-one learning platform with the Raspberry Pi Pico W at its heart. The Raspberry Pi Pico W is removable, meaning it can be upgraded when / if a newer model is ever released. Coming in a plastic case, Picoder features a range of components embedded into a large PCB. However, this isn't a new idea. Seeed has done something similar for the Arduino, and recently we reviewed Pico Bricks, which had embedded components. What is different with Picoder are the component choices.
Picoder Component List
Raspberry Pi Pico W on header
Half size breadboard
LCD Screen
8 x 8 RGB LED Matrix
Light Dependent Resistor
BME280 Temperature, pressure and humidity sensor
HC-SR04 Ultrasonic sensor
RFID Reader
Buzzer
4 x Buttons
2 x LEDs
Potentiometer
Servo
2 x Relays
HAT Breakout
USB C Power input
Of particular interest are the LCD screen and RFID module. These two components are not commonly found in learner kits, and it opens up the kit to more advanced users. Perhaps the most interesting part of the project is not the kit but the support. SB Components claims, "PiCoder also includes free live training sessions with experienced instructors. Join our community of learners and get personalized guidance and support as you explore the world of coding." These live sessions could be the feature that elevates Picoder from being "just a kit" into a learning platform.
How much will it cost, and what rewards will be on offer? Unfortunately, we have yet to find out. Picoder is listed as an upcoming project on Kickstarter, with no date or pricing listed.
Remember that crowdfunding a project does not guarantee receiving a finished product. Backing a crowdfunded project is akin to an investment; you believe in the project and want it to succeed. You are not purchasing a retail product.
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Les Pounder is an associate editor at Tom's Hardware. He is a creative technologist and for seven years has created projects to educate and inspire minds both young and old. He has worked with the Raspberry Pi Foundation to write and deliver their teacher training program "Picademy".
This learning kit/project is really interesting. Great ! Now it's time to brush up and enhance some coding/programming skills. Curious to know how the live training session is gonna be though.
Too bad this is on Kickstarter right now. But I hope the crowdfunding is successful in the end.
