The micro:bit has seen a modest upgrade to version 2 without much fanfare. Used by many schools and other educational institutions, this pocket-sized programmable computer forms the basis for many robotics projects.
The new version sees an upgrade to the nRF52833 processor and features a 64 MHz Arm Cortex-M4 FPU, which is four times faster than its predecessor. The board comes with 512 KB of flash storage on board and 128 KB RAM. The full range of sensors is available, including a MEMS microphone, touch pads, temperature and humidity, light sensor and accelerometer/compass.
For connectivity, the pocketable computing platform features analogue and digital I/O via an edge connector, a 5x5 LED matrix, a speaker and connections to the SPI, UART and I2C ports. A Bluetooth 5.0 radio is also embedded, allowing the units to communicate with each other over user-configurable channels.
Programming is either via block coding – an excellent way for learners to begin the coding journey – or Javascript and Python are also available as programming language options directly in the programming environment. Being the same size and shape as its predecessor, the multitude of accessories and add-on boards already available will be compatible with this new version.
QuecPython live demonstration Quectel Wireless Solutions
DSP, Micros & Memory
QuecPython allows designers to adapt Quectel’s modules quickly, with a low-code approach to suit their precise requirements in less time and at reduced cost, while maintaining high security standards.
Read more...Robust and customisable SBC Altron Arrow
DSP, Micros & Memory
Pairing the powerful i.MX8M Plus System on Module (SoM) from SolidRun, which features the i.MX 8M Plus SoC from NXP, this high-performance SBC is set to transform industrial environments.
Read more...New family supports future cryptography Altron Arrow
DSP, Micros & Memory
NXP has introduced its new i.MX 94 family, which contains an i.MX MPU with an integrated time-sensitive networking (TSN) switch, enabling configurable, secure communications with rich protocol support in industrial and automotive environments.
Read more...Fast and reliable 4G connectivity worldwide TRX Electronics
DSP, Micros & Memory
Powered by a powerful Quectel LTE Cat 4 modem, the Arduino Pro 4G module’s fast data throughput and high bandwidths ensure reliable and quick data download and upload, even in remote locations.
Read more...NXP’s all-purpose microcontroller series Altron Arrow
DSP, Micros & Memory
NXP has released its MCX A14x and A15x series of all-purpose microcontrollers which are part of the larger MCX portfolio that shares a common Arm Cortex-M33 core platform.
Read more...ESP32-P4 SoC iCorp Technologies
DSP, Micros & Memory
Espressif Systems announced its latest SoC, the ESP32-P4 which is powered by a RISC-V CPU, with an AI instructions extension, an advanced memory subsystem, and integrated high-speed peripherals.
Read more...Microchip SoC FPGA ASIC Design Services
DSP, Micros & Memory
Microchip Technology introduced the RT PolarFire SoC FPGA, the first real-time Linux capable, RISC-V-based microprocessor subsystem on a proven RT PolarFire FPGA platform.
Read more...QLC Flash memory using BiCS tech EBV Electrolink
DSP, Micros & Memory
KIOXIA announced it had started shipping its 2 Tb Quad-Level-Cell memory devices with its 8th-generation BiCS FLASH 3D flash memory technology.
Read more...Steel wire cable tray systems RS South Africa
Interconnection
Legrand has developed a zinc aluminium finish surface treatment for its Cablofil steel wire cable tray system to minimise the threat of zinc whiskers forming.
Read more...Advanced high-voltage capacitors RS South Africa
Passive Components
These new capacitor families from Panasonic are designed for surface-mount and radial lead applications, offering remarkable performance improvements that meet the evolving needs of industrial applications.