The first step is always the hardest, and even the fabrication of cyberdecks can't escape that. Previously we've explored fabulous designs with hardware Framework and inspired by the Fallout universe, but if someone wishes to “get their feet wet” in the waters of cyberdecks, perhaps they want to start with a simpler project. And so we come to Cyberdore 2064, which uses a Raspberry Pi Zero, another Raspberry Pi Pico to control its encoder, and a Bluetooth keyboard.
Where does a cyberdeck begin? Where does it end? How many ready-to-use pieces can we incorporate into the design? Metal, plastic, wood, all at once? Many questions and countless answers, but one thing is for sure: There has to be a dose of DIY. For example, last May we talked about T3rminal, which uses a Raspberry Pi 4 and a mini Bluetooth keyboard. Following that same spirit, today we present the Cyberdore 2064 by Tommi Laukkanen, which actually adopts two Raspberry Pis:
Cyberdore 2064: Compact cyberdeck with encoder and two Raspberry Pis
The basis of this configuration is a Raspberry Pi Zero, but I imagine it's a Zero W or a Zero 2 W with Bluetooth support. That change is recommended to connect the keyboard, an Rii 518BT (or one of its 17 million clones) available on AliExpress and other online stores. However, it also includes a Raspberry Pi Pico to control the encoder and an animation on the OLED SSD1306 screen in the upper right corner. I don't have exact data on the main panel, but it seems to be a classic Waveshare 3.5-inch with a resolution of 480 x 320 pixels.
The encoder is nothing more than a simple KY-040, we can also see a couple of switches, and the battery holder is compatible with 18650 cells. Unfortunately, the technical details end there, and Tommy didn't share exact instructions for assembling the Cyberdore 2064, but I calculate it shouldn't be that complicated. What he did publish (fortunately) are the files that let us print the case in 3D. They are available via Printables, and they are free.
Official site: Click here
