The Raspberry Pi Zero may have cut-down specs compared to its bigger siblings, but that doesn't make it useless hardware. Far from it: you can turn it into a scientific calculator or a pocket mini projector, two very challenging projects for any DIY enthusiast. What's next on the list? Its official name is PiPod, and it serves as a kind of homage to the classic iPod, without losing the flexibility of the mini computer.
The Raspberry Pi serves as an entry point to the Linux world, provides an excellent programming environment, and throws us headfirst into the magic of DIY. Just look at the excellent selection of Raspberry Pi-compatible kits to see that its potential for homemade fabrication and improvisation is gigantic. By far, one of the most popular and simple projects is turning the Raspberry Pi into a retro console with RetroPie, but there is much more to do, and that also extends to the small Zero version. Now, one of the most recurring criticisms is the audio quality that the mini computer reproduces, something quite logical if we consider its low cost and the little physical space available. However, with the help of a DAC and a good PCB, the Raspberry Pi Zero becomes a music player on par with any iPod. Want to know more? The project is called PiPod.
PiPod is a creation by the user known as “Bram,” from the Netherlands. Not satisfied with current music playback methods (streaming basically behaves like a radio and needs a constant internet connection), he decided to return to the roots of MP3 players, and the high price of local options led him to build one with the Raspberry Pi Zero. The PiPod features a 2.2-inch screen at 320 by 240 pixels (don’t forget to check our article on Raspberry Pi screens), a PCM5102A DAC with a 3.5-millimeter output, a TP4056 charger accompanied by a DW01 protector for its 2,000 mA battery, an ADS1015 ADC that monitors battery status, and a small MT3608 booster that converts the battery's 3.7V to 5V.
All the relevant data about the PiPod and the files to print its case in 3D have already been published on GitHub. If you don’t have the ability to build a PCB and integrate the rest of the components, Bram offers the PiPod in kit format. This option is quite expensive ($75 plus shipping), but all you need to add is the Raspberry Pi Zero, the memory card, the battery, and the case.
