We like to use development boards, but the process from creation to work prototypes to actual products is a long journey. So we started to think that if there is any general solution to simplify the process. Therefore, the original idea has already come out.
We believe that having an open standard can help your project adapt to different use cases with faster development speed and industrial-grade quality.
After some more in-depth research and testing, the M5 stack came out. It is a stackable system that contains a core module and several other modules.
The core module works as a controller, it is an Arduino-based system, but we have added an HMI (human machine interface) on it, which will allow you to easily customize your UI (user interface) for your project, only Need to call some of the APIs in the M5 library. Coverage from custom-designed enclosures is also more stable and secure.
About M5’s main features:
- Shelling.
2.Stackable.
- Open source.
Details
The kit is based on the Espressif ESP32 microcontroller. It is a system-on-a-chip (SOC) microcontroller that is becoming very popular. There is a big reason for this popularity. The chip includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, a very relevant connection to modern projects.
Another important reason for popularity is the availability of free development tools. GCC-based compilers, Arduino, Micro Python, etc. are available.
However, the most important reason for the popularity is the low cost. Chips, modules, and development boards are easily available at low cost.
M5Stack is a great development platform. It can develop beautiful prototypes effortlessly. It may even be suitable for small batch production. The modular, stacked expansion system is clever.
Custom circuits are “stacked” at the bottom of the kit. The circuit can be closed relatively easily. The daunting tasks of closing user interface elements (screens, buttons, etc.) have already been completed for you.
Features
Suitable for most projects. They include:
2 “320 x 240 LCD screen. (Pretty sharp, mainly due to small size)
3 buttons
One speaker, and
On/Off – Reset button.
More information
The establishment of the Arduino development environment is well documented and very simple. Provides software libraries for accessing LCDs, speakers, and buttons. This is a huge time saver. E.g. To display text on the screen, you can call library functions
M5.Lcd.putStr().
Check out their social media site for project ideas:
https://www.facebook.com/M5Stack/
In general, M5Stack is a very good development platform. The team did a good job. Attention to detail is self-evident – hardware, software, user manuals, packaging. M5Stack is a great prototype platform.
Also they have many add ons board which can be add on easily over the top of M5Stack
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