The BeagleBoard.org Foundation is set to release the BeagleConnect Zepto, marketed as a “$1 computer.” The board features open-source hardware driven by the Texas Instruments MSPM0L117 Cortex-M0+ MCU from the MSPM0 series launched in 2023.
The compact board includes mikroBus-compatible headers, a TAG-CONNECT JTAG connector, two Qwiic connectors (one Qwiic and a USB-C port for some versions), Boot and Reset buttons, and an RGB LED.
Specifications for BeagleConnect Zepto:
– MCU: Texas Instruments MSPM0L117
– CPU: 32MHz Arm Cortex-M0+ core
– Memory: 16KB SRAM
– Storage: 128KB dual-bank flash
– Package: QFN32 (5×5 mm)
– USB: Optional USB-C power, shared with a Qwiic JST connector
– Expansion:
– mikroBUS headers for nearly 2,000 ClickE add-on boards; Raspberry Pi HAT compatibility (12 pin limit)
– Up to 2x Qwiic connectors for I2C, UART, ADC, GPIO
– Debugging: 8-pin TAG-CONNECT JTAG connector
– Miscellaneous:
– Reset and User buttons
– RGB LED
– Power Supply: 5V via USB-C or Qwiic/JST connector
– Dimensions: 33.7 x 25.4 mm (2-layer PCB)
The Qwiic connectors can link the board to BeaglePlay, BeagleBadge, or other Qwiic-enabled systems, enabling connections with Linux hosts for internet and prototyping. Support for BeagleConnect Greybus for Zephyr facilitates controlling mikroBUS modules via Linux without custom microcontroller firmware.
Several firmware solutions are in development:
– Zephyr-based SDK with a MCUBOOT USB bootloader
– BeagleConnect firmware bridging mikroBUS to Linux/Zephyr (Greybus)
– Gateway operation via USB
– Node function via USB and JST
– Micropython over Zephyr
– Microblocks using Zephyr and Arduino Core
Jason Kridner is creating a gaming environment using BeagleBadge with BeagleConnect Zepto as the controllers. Currently, the GitHub repository includes KiCad designs, hardware documentation, and previews. It lists various MCU variants and potential prices for the board. The MSPM0L117 is targeted for cost-effectiveness with minimal profit margins.
Firmware and software resources are forthcoming. A Zephyr repo for Zepto is available. The project invites involvement, with prototypes ready. More info is on the forum.
The board aims to be sold for one dollar, ensuring satisfactory margins for component suppliers and sustainability over ten years. Olimex offers a similar one-Euro RISC-V kit with VGA and PS/2 connectors as a value comparison.