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Adafruit PyBadge for MakeCode Arcade

Adafruit PyBadge for MakeCode Arcade is a versatile, compact development board that evaluates the ATSAMD51J19 Cortex M4 processor. The credit-card-sized board can run CircuitPython programming language, MakeCode Arcade code editor, or the Arduino open-source electronics platform. The board features 512KB of Flash and 192KB of RAM. The device also has 2MB of Quad Serial Peripheral Interface (QSPI) Flash for file storage, which is ideal for images, fonts, sounds, or game assets. The board has a thin-film-transistor display with a dimmable backlight with eight silicon-top buttons. The buttons are arranged to mimic a gaming handheld.

A low cost version is available with pared-down hardware to make it more affordable. Still use it with MakeCode Arcade. The low-cost 3939 version has the same processor chip, QSPI Flash, on/off switch, buttons, buzzer, light sensor, and battery circuit. This board does not have Feather headers, JST STEMMA connectors, a LIS3DH accelerometer, or an optional speaker connection. Instead of five NeoPixels there is only one in the center front.

The MakeCode Sync Cable is a Micro B USB to Micro B USB cable that is specifically designed for co-op fun or player-versus-player showdowns. This cable is compatible with PyGamer, and the JACDAC pin is connected to the extra ID pin of the Micro B cable so data can pass back and forth.

Features

  • ATSAMD51J19 at 120MHz with 3.3V logic/power and 512KB of FLASH + 192KB of RAM
  • 2MB of SPI Flash for storing images, sounds, animations, etc.
  • 8x game/control buttons with silicone button tops
  • 5x NeoPixels for badge dazzle or game score-keeping
  • Triple-axis accelerometer (motion sensor)
  • Light sensor, reverse-mount so that it points out the front
  • Built-in buzzer mini-speaker
  • Mono Class-D speaker driver for 4Ω to 8Ω speakers, up to 2W
  • Lithium-polymer battery port with built-in recharging capability
  • USB port for battery charging, programming, and debugging
  • 85.7mm x 54.6mm x 10mm dimensions

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Additional Resources

Associated Product

SAM D5 & E5 32-Bit Arm Cortex-M4F Microcontrollers

Microchip Technology SAM D5 & E5 32-Bit Arm Cortex-M4F Microcontrollers

Extensive connectivity interfaces, powerful performance, and robust hardware-based security.

Learn Moreabout Microchip Technology SAM D5 & E5 32-Bit Arm Cortex-M4F Microcontrollers View Productsrelated to Microchip Technology SAM D5 & E5 32-Bit Arm Cortex-M4F Microcontrollers
Published: 2019-05-23 | Updated: 2023-05-25