Scientific calculators may be little more than a curiosity for some, but others depend on them every day, both at school and at work. These extraordinary devices have over time inspired all kinds of modifications. This time, we're going to explore a method to build one from scratch. The core of this DIY scientific calculator is a Raspberry Pi Zero, complete with a custom PCB and a 3D printed case.
If you ever wonder what you can do with a Raspberry Pi, it's clear that the doubt doesn't arise from a shortage of projects. You can build a pocket projector or a vintage radio, assemble an open-design synthesizer, create a retro console with RetroPie, resurrect old computers, and much more. On the software side, it's always interesting to explore the operating systems for Raspberry Pi, and if it's too hard to get the hardware in your region (whether due to price or limited availability), don't forget the market offers very interesting alternatives to Raspberry Pi. Now, more than once it has been said that most projects based on this mini computer aren't exactly practical. Well... personally, I think building a scientific calculator with a Raspberry Pi Zero easily breaks that idea.
Build a Scientific Calculator with Raspberry Pi
The project is called WarpPI and is by Andrea Cavalli. The developer explains that the calculator is in a fully experimental phase and still lacks functions considered basic in any normal electronic calculator, but that doesn't make it any less interesting. WarpPI uses a custom PCB to link the keyboard to the screen, the Raspberry Pi Zero and the charging circuit, while the case and buttons were 3D printed.
All the material needed to bring WarpPI to completion was published on GitHub. Unfortunately, there are no details on the final cost of the components, but if you decide to follow this route, I don't think the budget will be a major problem.
