The Raspberry Pi Pico 2: A New Era for Makers and Python Enthusiasts
The Raspberry Pi Foundation has just announced the release of the Raspberry Pi Pico 2, a new generation of the popular microcontroller board. This latest iteration promises to bring even more power and versatility to the world of DIY electronics and Python programming.
What’s New in the Raspberry Pi Pico 2?
The Raspberry Pi Pico 2 boasts several significant upgrades over its predecessor, including a faster processor, more memory, and improved security features. The new board is based on the RP2350 processor, which provides a 150 MHz clock speed and dual ARM Cortex-M33 cores. This represents a significant boost in performance compared to the original Pico, which was clocked at 133 MHz.
In addition to the processor upgrade, the Pico 2 also features 4 MB of flash memory, double the amount found on the original Pico. This increased storage capacity will allow makers to create more complex projects and store more data on the board.
The Pico 2 also includes a range of new security features, including improved encryption and secure boot mechanisms. These features will help to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access to the board.
A New Era for Python Programming
The Raspberry Pi Pico 2 is designed to be highly compatible with Python, one of the most popular programming languages used on the Raspberry Pi. The board supports the MicroPython and CircuitPython operating systems, which provide a range of libraries and tools for working with Python on the Pico.
With the Pico 2, makers will be able to create a wide range of projects, from simple scripts to complex applications. The board’s improved performance and memory will allow for more ambitious projects, such as machine learning and computer vision applications.
The Pico 2 in Action: Snake Hunters and Python Programming
But the Raspberry Pi Pico 2 isn’t just for makers and hobbyists. It’s also being used in some unexpected ways, such as in the field of snake hunting. Yes, you read that right - snake hunting.
Mike Kimmel, a nuisance wildlife trapper and Python Cowboy, recently used a Raspberry Pi Pico 2 to track and capture a giant Burmese python in the Everglades. The snake was found to be infested with hundreds of ticks, which were feeding on its blood and causing it significant distress.
Kimmel used the Pico 2 to create a custom tracking device that allowed him to locate the snake and capture it safely. The device used a combination of GPS and sensor data to track the snake’s movements and provide real-time updates to Kimmel’s team.
This project demonstrates the versatility and power of the Raspberry Pi Pico 2, and shows how it can be used in a wide range of applications, from DIY electronics to wildlife conservation.
Conclusion
The Raspberry Pi Pico 2 is an exciting new development in the world of DIY electronics and Python programming. With its improved performance, increased memory, and enhanced security features, it’s an ideal choice for makers and hobbyists looking to create complex projects and applications.
Whether you’re a seasoned maker or just starting out, the Pico 2 is definitely worth checking out. Its versatility and power make it an ideal choice for a wide range of projects, from simple scripts to complex applications.
So why not give the Pico 2 a try? With its affordable price point and ease of use, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to get started with DIY electronics and Python programming.
The Raspberry Pi Pico 2: A New Era for Makers and Python Enthusiasts
Snake Hunters Find Giant Python Being Eaten Alive by Ticks
