Using the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, the **Bee Write Back** writerdeck is a DIY project that should be straightforward to replicate with off-the-shelf components such as an OLED, mechanical key switches, caps, and a 3D printed enclosure.
Simon (shmimel) experienced difficulty sleeping and discovered that journaling was beneficial but preferred not to write in a physical journal. Thus, he developed the Bee Write Back journal/writerdeck to provide a distraction-free writing experience, achieving a neat outcome.
### Bee Write Back Key Components:
– [Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W](https://www.cnx-software.com/2021/10/28/raspberry-pi-zero-2-w-launched-with-quad-core-cpu-512mb-ram/): Broadcom BCM2711 quad-core Cortex-A53 SoC, 512 MB RAM, WiFi 4, Bluetooth 4.2
– Display: 5.5-inch AMOLED screen, 1280 x 720 resolution ([$52 on AliExpress](https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4cXjEOh))
– Keyboard accessories
– Power: [Seengreat Pi Zero UPS USB HUB](https://seengreat.com/wiki/189/pi-zero-ups-usb-hub-v1-2), 18650 battery holder ([$25 on Amazon](https://amzn.to/3QegW8F))
– Cables and Fixtures:
– Mini HDMI to Mini HDMI cable
– 2x USB-C to USB-A cables
– USB-C male to female cable
– Standoffs and screws
– 3D Printed Parts: Screen cover, keyboard plate, base, screen retainer
– BoM Cost: Approximately $200, excluding shipping and printed parts
Complete instructions for hardware assembly and kit setup are available [on GitHub](https://github.com/shmimel/bee-write-back/tree/main), along with two (vibe-coded) Python scripts:
– writerdeck – Minimal TUI writing program for a device dedicated to writing
– claude-chat.py – A pager-style terminal chat client for the Anthropic API
Caption: From left to right: Power switch, USB-A port, (USB-C) charging port
The small 5.5-inch display might not be ideal for everyone, including those needing larger screens for comfort, and the keyboard’s noisiness might be distracting. However, it certainly suits some users well. Watch a short video and access the assembly guide in the video below.
YouTube video: [Bee Write Back video](https://www.youtube.com/embed/JutsTp7yeNU?si=yp2lFbUBdO0HMGtD)
Via [Liliputing](https://liliputing.com/bee-write-back-is-a-diy-distraction-free-writing-machine-with-oled-display-and-mechanical-keyboard/)
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time venture and transitioned to full-time writing of news and reviews in 2011.
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