While it may resemble a gaming console, the VIDI X microcomputer offers much more than mere entertainment. With a potent ESP32 processor, it delivers both low energy consumption and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth communication capabilities. However, what truly distinguishes VIDI X as a development board, and the main reason why it is not just a mere gaming console, is its expansion port, featuring 22 pins for buttons and sensors on the board. By utilizing micro switches, users can redirect inputs and outputs to the board or the expansion slot as required. Ultimately, this opens up a wealth of possibilities for connection to various input/output units such as sensors and actuators.
The VIDI X microcomputer board comes with basic control elements that are particularly useful for gaming, removing the need for additional control buttons to be connected. The board features a 2.8″ touch-sensitive screen, which adds convenience to usage. Moreover, the device has an array of basic components like a built-in microphone, speaker, temperature sensor, IR diode, and light sensor. These components are all connected via a DIP switch to ESP32, enabling the user to select which sensors to connect. If a larger number of input/output pins are required, users can release pins for sensors with a microswitch. Essentially, the possibilities for usage are limited only by one’s creativity.
The VIDI X includes a convenient battery case for three classic AA batteries located on the back plate. With the ability to turn off certain components on the board, and a low-power ESP32 processor, the board has excellent battery life when utilizing the battery case. Of course, in addition to batteries, the VIDI X can also be powered via the USB port and the Voltage IN PIN on the expander.
The VIDI X microcomputer board can be programmed through its USB port using the Arduino IDE interface or via the native ESP-IDF tool. In addition, there is a limited degree of compatibility with MicroPython, Javascript, and the PictoBlox graphic interface, which is developed with Scratch 3.0. ESP-IDF can be easily integrated with various code editors such as Visual Studio Code and the PlatformIO plugin, Eclipse and other preferred editors.
With a few minor adjustments, Arduino IDE supports ESP32 programming directly in C++, similar to other Arduino boards. In addition, the VIDI X board features an SD card slot, which allows users to play games like Doom, Flappy Bird, and Super Mario.
The main emphasis is on ESP32 programming using the Arduino IDE interface, and utilizing the expansion port to connect a variety of sensors and actuators.
The VIDI X board can be easily programmed using the tutorials available on the VIDI Github page (https://github.com/VidiLAB-com/). These tutorials provide all the necessary information you need to get started with using the VIDI X board for your projects
Programming the VIDI X is similar to Arduino. However, it’s important to note that the VIDI X is equipped with the more powerful ESP32 microprocessor, unlike most Arduino boards that use Atmega328p. As a result, the VIDI X delivers unparalleled capabilities, especially given that it has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth communication. Additionally, multiple VIDI X boards can be connected to each other, making it even more versatile.
The expansion port of VIDI X is one-of-a-kind and currently not supported by any other boards. As an added convenience, VIDI X will provide users with pre-made templates, enabling them to create a range of custom printed expansion boards themselves, or they can simply order them online.
The purpose is to teach users how to make a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) and allow them to conveniently order its production for a cost-effective price, , as well as to provide them with the possibility of modifying the expansion board to personalize it for certain special use cases.
The VIDI X microcomputer is designed primarily for educational purposes and requires a foundational understanding of programming and development boards (previous knowledge with Arduino will suffice). Some functions, such as the touch screen, may require slightly more advanced knowledge. To support users, Vidi will regularly publish helpful tutorials in the magazine and the Github repository, delving deeper into the use of various sensors and actuators, as well as teaching users about useful projects in detail.
The VIDI X board can serve as the central processing unit for a multitude of projects, whether you have an expansion board or not. The board is built with a powerful ESP32 processor which supports paired units, meaning that two VIDI X boards can work together as a functional pair. For instance, one board can act as a receiver, and the other as a transmitter. This allows remote control via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or by means of communication methods such as the serial communication interface and the built-in infrared receiver and transmitter.
Connecting to the internet opens up infinite possibilities, such as sending emails, hosting websites and managing a diverse range of devices, including smart home applicances and automated systems.
The VIDI X microcomputer is not your typical development board as it resembles a gaming console in appearance. What sets it apart from the rest is its removable screen and physical buttons, making it adaptable to any working condition. However, the board’s ultimate goal is to be versatile, allowing it to be used for various projects and possibilities. Powered by the ESP32 processor, the VIDI X can run more complex algorithms than Arduino, resulting in more precise and reliable solutions. This is particularly crucial when designing systems intended for long-term operations. The ESP32’s capabilities make it an ideal choice for all IoT projects, attested by its frequent use in this field.
PROCESSOR SPECIFICATION:
Manufacturer:Espressif Systems
Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/e/g/i/n, Bluetooth
Frequency: 2.4 GHz do 2.5 GHz
Data transfer speed: 150 Mb/s
Output power: 20 dBm
Security: WPA/WPA2/WPA2-Enterprise/WPS
CPU: Tensilica Xtensa LX6 microprocessor @ 240 MHz
Memory: 520 KiB SRAM
Vidi X is equipped with a header for extensions whose pin layout you can download in pdf format and see at this link Vidi X in the picture below.
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