The world of computing has become increasingly homogenized, with closed systems and limited customization options. But what if you crave a device that breaks the mold, a machine that empowers you to tinker, create, and learn without restrictions? Enter Pilet, a revolutionary mini-computer designed with the maverick spirit in mind.
Pilet Pioneers Performance with Raspberry Pi 5
At the heart of Pilet lies the powerful Raspberry Pi 5. This latest iteration of the Raspberry Pi boasts significant performance enhancements, making it ideal for even the most demanding tasks. Whether you’re coding complex applications, editing media, or running simulations, Pilet delivers the processing muscle to keep up with your workflow. But Pilet isn’t just about raw power; it embraces the future with features like PCIe and NVMe support, opening doors for cutting-edge storage and peripheral expansion.
One of the biggest limitations of traditional computers is their dependence on a constant power source. Pilet liberates you from the confines of the desk with a remarkable 7-hour battery life. This frees you to take your projects anywhere, from your backyard to a bustling coffee shop. Imagine coding under the open sky, editing photos on a train journey, or tinkering with electronics during a camping trip – Pilet empowers your creativity on the go.
Unlike commercially available tablets and computers that lock you into proprietary ecosystems, Pilet champions the philosophy of open source. Both the hardware and software are built upon open-source principles, granting you complete control and customization. After launch, the creators will release a treasure trove of resources, including full schematics, PCB files, CAD designs, and source code. This unprecedented level of transparency empowers you to modify the hardware and software to your exact specifications.
Pilet shuns unnecessary complexity, adhering to the KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) principle. Forget about wrestling with cryptic drivers or battling hardware compatibility issues. Pilet boasts straightforward, 3D-printable components, making it a breeze to assemble and customize. This approach caters to beginners and veterans alike, allowing anyone to dive into the world of hardware hacking with ease.
Pilet has a Modular Design
Pilet’s modular design is a playground for the imaginative tinkerer. The core system lays the foundation, but the possibilities for expansion are truly endless. Design and build your own modules, whether it’s a camera for capturing fleeting moments, a sensor suite for environmental monitoring, or an actuator for bringing your creations to life. The creators are actively developing modules like LTE for on-the-go connectivity and NVMe for blazing-fast storage, further expanding Pilet’s potential.
The Pilet Variants: Tailored to Your Needs
Pilet caters to diverse preferences with two distinct variants: Pilet 5 and Pilet 7.
Pilet 5: The Compact Powerhouse
For those who crave portability, Pilet 5 emerges as the champion. This compact console variant exudes retro charm with a modern twist. It features a vibrant 5-inch touchscreen display, a versatile array of input devices, and a keyboard optimized for thumb-typing (the layout is still under development). Powered by open-source QMK firmware, the keyboard is fully customizable, transforming Pilet 5 into a hackable handheld computer perfect for on-the-go computing or late-night coding sessions in bed.
For precise cursor control, Pilet 5 incorporates a trackball, which seamlessly complements the IPS touchscreen, fostering an intuitive and enjoyable user experience. But the input options don’t stop there. Pilet 5 boasts a scroll wheel for effortless navigation, a navigational switch that doubles as arrow keys and a basic joystick, and dedicated game buttons (A, B, X, and Y) for a truly immersive gaming experience.
The developers are actively working on expanding Pilet 5’s functionality through modules. The near-complete NVMe module promises lightning-fast storage, while the LTE module, currently in development, will liberate you from Wi-Fi limitations.
Pilet 7: The Expansive Canvas
If you prioritize screen real estate, Pilet 7 stands as the ideal choice. This larger tablet variant features a spacious 7-inch touchscreen, providing ample room for multitasking and creative endeavors. Under the hood, Pilet 7 shares the same powerful internals as its smaller sibling. However, it departs from the default Raspberry Pi OS and embraces KDE Plasma, delivering a robust touch experience on a full-fledged Linux distribution. This translates to unparalleled flexibility compared to the limitations imposed by Android and iOS.
The base model of Pilet 7 is nearing completion, but the innovation doesn’t stop there. The creators are actively exploring the inclusion of detachable modules. Imagine seamlessly attaching a keyboard, gamepad, or custom-built deck to Pilet 7, transforming it into a versatile and adaptable computing device. The goal is to make this modular mechanism fully 3D printable, empowering users to design and create their own unique expansions.
Technical Specification
- Supported SBC: Raspberry Pi 5 (all variants are supported)
- Power Source: 3.7V Lithium Polymer and Lithium-Ion Batteries, 5V USB-C
- Screen: 5-inch and 7-inch IPS, DSI interface, 1280×800, capacitive touch screen.
- I/O: MicroHDMI (2x), USB 3.0 (2x), USB 2.0 (2x), Programmable GPIO
- Network: 802.11ac Wi-Fi, LAN, Bluetooth 5.0, LTE Cellular (via module)
- Storage: SD card, NVMe SSD (via module)
- Dimensions: 175mm x 125mm x 28mm
Powering Your Creativity: The Battery Management Module
Ensuring stable and reliable power delivery for the Raspberry Pi 5, particularly under demanding workloads or when utilizing power-hungry peripherals, presented a significant design challenge. The Pilet development team meticulously addressed this challenge by crafting a dependable battery module. This module incorporates the Texas Instruments TPS61088, a robust component that guarantees stable power delivery. It surpasses the Raspberry Pi’s 5A requirement, ensuring smooth operation without the worry of undervoltage issues, regardless of the workload.
The battery module prioritizes efficient charging and incorporates built-in safeguards against reverse polarity and overcurrent for enhanced reliability. The schematics and PCB design for the battery module have been finalized, and the module has undergone rigorous testing to guarantee exceptional performance. Notably, Pilet departs from the conventional requirement for a Raspberry Pi-specific power supply. With Pilet, you can leverage any standard 5V USB source, be it a laptop, PC, car charger, airplane USB port, or power bank, for effortless charging. The ingenious battery module automatically boosts current to meet the demands of even the most resource-intensive applications.
Open-Source Design: A Philosophy of Transparency
The Pilet project is deeply rooted in the open-source philosophy. Upon release, the creators will not only share simplified schematics; they will provide complete schematics alongside the original KiCad PCB design files. This level of transparency extends to all components, with CAD and STEP files made readily available. This commitment to open-source principles empowers users to delve deep into the hardware, understand its intricacies, and even modify it to their exact specifications.
A Glimpse into the Future: Pilet OS and Beyond
Pilet is compatible with a variety of Linux distributions, including Raspberry Pi OS, which requires minimal configuration for optimal performance with the battery and display. However, the creators are also developing Pilet OS, a custom-optimized operating system specifically tailored for Pilet’s unique hardware and software architecture. This dedicated operating system will further enhance the user experience and unlock the full potential of the Pilet platform.
The future of Pilet is bright. With the rapid advancements in open-source hardware and software, and the unwavering commitment of the Pilet community, this innovative mini-computer has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with technology. Pilet is more than just a device; it’s a platform for creativity, exploration, and limitless possibilities.
Source: Kickstarter
I am officially a tech addict and enjoy providing my views on matters related to this industry. I am always interested in trying out new tech gadgets and I have owned multiple smartphones including the legendary HTC One, SGS2, Nexus 4, iPhone 4, 5S, 6S, XR, Note 9. You can ask me any tech related questions in the comment section or on twitter @hookedNav