Raspberry Pi Pico Microcontroller Development Board
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The Pico is a low cost, high performance microcontroller board built around the Raspberry Pi RP2040 chip. The Pico features flexible digital interfaces and can be easily programmed over USB using C/C++ or MicroPython, thanks to a comprehensive SDK with software examples and full documentation.
Raspberry Pi Pico is the debut microcontroller-class board from Raspberry Pi. Built around our RP2040 silicon platform, Pico brings our signature values of high performance, low cost, and ease of use to the microcontroller space. With a large on-chip memory, symmetric dual-core processor complex, deterministic bus fabric, and rich peripheral set augmented with our unique Programmable I/O (PIO) subsystem, RP2040 provides professional users with unrivalled power and flexibility. With detailed documentation, a polished MicroPython port, and a UF2 bootloader in ROM, it has the lowest possible barrier to entry for beginner and hobbyist users.
Designed by Raspberry Pi, RP2040 features a dual-core Arm Cortex-M0+ processor with 264KB internal RAM and support for up to 16MB of off-chip Flash. A wide range of flexible I/O options includes I2C, SPI, and - uniquely - Programmable I/O (PIO). These support endless possible applications for this small and affordable package.
Tired of hitting the performance ceiling with traditional 8-bit microcontrollers
When your projects outgrow the memory and speed limitations of standard boards, forcing you to compromise on features or optimize code for days, you need a modern architectural upgrade. Enter the official Raspberry Pi Pico. Powered by the groundbreaking RP2040 silicon designed in-house by Raspberry Pi in the UK, this board brings dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processing power to the micro-level. It’s the perfect transition board for developers looking to step up into high-performance embedded systems without the overhead, power draw, or complexity of a full Linux single-board computer.
Specifications
- Microcontroller: RP2040 (Designed by Raspberry Pi in the UK)
- Processor: Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ clocked up to 133 MHz
- Memory: 264KB of on-chip SRAM
- Storage: 2MB of onboard QSPI Flash memory
- Power Input: 1.8V to 5.5V via VSYS (Onboard buck-boost SMPS)
- Operating Logic: 3.3V System (Strictly NOT 5V tolerant)
- GPIO Pins: 26 multifunction 3.3V GPIO pins
- Analog Inputs: 3x 12-bit ADC channels (Plus 1 internal temperature sensor)
- Digital Interfaces: 2x UART, 2x SPI, 2x I2C, 16x PWM channels
- Custom I/O: 8x Programmable I/O (PIO) state machines for custom peripheral support
- USB: Native USB 1.1 Host and Device support (Micro-USB port)
- Debugging: 3-pin Serial Wire Debug (SWD) ARM port
Applications
- Custom PC Peripherals: Utilize the native USB support to build macro keypads, stream decks, or flight simulator panels (USB HID).
- High-Speed Data Acquisition: Use the 133MHz clock and DMA to read high-speed sensor arrays for robotics or scientific logging.
- Audio Synthesis & Processing: Leverage the dual cores to generate waveforms or process digital audio signals (I2S via PIO).
- Industrial Protocol Bridging: Program the PIO to translate legacy industrial protocols to modern formats without CPU overhead.
- Machine Learning at the Edge: Run lightweight TinyML models (like TensorFlow Lite) for voice or gesture recognition.
Unlock New Capabilities
- Past Projects (Prerequisites): If you've mastered the basic 8-bit Arduino Uno or Nano and understand fundamental GPIO/I2C communication, you are ready for this upgrade.
- The Feature Upgrade: The Pi Pico unlocks true multi-threading (dual cores) and the incredibly powerful PIO (Programmable I/O). Instead of your CPU waiting for a sensor to reply (blocking code), the PIO handles the communication independently, freeing the dual cores to do heavy math or drive displays simultaneously.
- Effort & Requirements: Intermediate Effort. Transitioning from C++ to MicroPython is highly recommended for rapid prototyping. You will need a Micro-USB cable and a 3.3V logic-level converter if you are interfacing with older 5V sensors.
Virtual Technician & Wiring Guide
- ⚠️ CRITICAL VOLTAGE WARNING: The Raspberry Pi Pico operates strictly on 3.3V logic. Applying 5V directly to any GPIO pin will permanently damage the RP2040 chip. Always use a logic level shifter when connecting to 5V modules.
Quick I2C Wiring (Default Bus 0):
- Pico Pin 1 (GP0): Connect to Sensor SDA (Data)
- Pico Pin 2 (GP1): Connect to Sensor SCL (Clock)
- Pico Pin 3 (GND): Connect to Sensor Ground
- Pico Pin 36 (3V3 OUT): Connect to Sensor VCC (Only if the sensor is 3.3V compatible!)
Package Includes:
- 1 x Raspberry Pi Pico MicroController Development Board