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Adafruit PyBadge LC - MakeCode Arcade, CircuitPython or Arduino - Low Cost Version
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The Adafruit PyBadge LC is the low-cost version of the PyBadge — a credit-card-sized development board with a colour TFT display, game-style buttons, and a b...
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The Adafruit PyBadge LC is the low-cost version of the PyBadge — a credit-card-sized development board with a colour TFT display, game-style buttons, and a built-in speaker. It runs MakeCode Arcade games, CircuitPython programs, or Arduino sketches on the same ATSAMD51 processor as the full PyBadge, at a more affordable price point.
Compared to the full PyBadge, the LC version omits the Feather headers, STEMMA connectors, LIS3DH accelerometer, and external speaker output, and has 1 NeoPixel instead of 5. It retains the same processor, QSPI flash, display, buttons, buzzer, light sensor, battery circuit, and on/off switch.
Key Features
- ATSAMD51J19 Processor – 120 MHz Cortex M4F with 512 KB Flash + 192 KB RAM
- 2 MB QSPI Flash – For storing images, sounds, animations, and game assets
- 1.8" 160×128 Colour TFT – Fast DMA-driven display with dimmable backlight
- 8 Silicone-Top Buttons – D-pad + 2 menu + 2 action buttons
- 1 NeoPixel LED – Centre-front status indicator
- Light Sensor – Forward-facing for ambient light detection
- Built-In Buzzer Speaker – For bleeps, bloops, and sound effects
- LiPo Battery Port – Built-in charging via Micro-USB; on/off switch for battery saving
What the LC Version Does Not Include
- Feather-compatible header sockets
- STEMMA / JST connectors
- LIS3DH accelerometer
- External speaker output / Class D amplifier
- 4 of the 5 NeoPixels (1 remains)
Programming Options
- MakeCode Arcade – Drag-and-drop block programming for games
- CircuitPython – Graphics, audio, text, and sensor support in Python
- Arduino – Full low-level control using the Adafruit Arcada library
Also Consider
- PyBadge (Full Version) – Adds Feather headers, STEMMA connectors, accelerometer, Class D speaker amp, and 5 NeoPixels
Ideal For
- Budget-friendly retro gaming handhelds
- Conference and event badges
- Learning programming with MakeCode Arcade or CircuitPython
- Classroom sets and workshops
Package Contents
- 1× Adafruit PyBadge LC (assembled with display, buttons, NeoPixel, and buzzer)
Note: LiPo battery is sold separately. A 400 mAh battery is recommended.
Resources
Jargon buster
Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.
- CircuitPython
- A beginner-friendly version of Python designed to run directly on microcontroller boards. If a product supports CircuitPython, you can often program it by copying code files onto the board rather than setting up a more complex toolchain.
- Feather-compatible
- Feather-compatible means the board follows the Adafruit Feather size and pin layout used by many add-on boards and enclosures. It matters because it helps you choose accessories that will physically fit and connect to the same pins.
- Headers
- Rows of metal pins used to plug a module into a breadboard or connect it with jumper wires. Pre-soldered headers make the module easier to use straight away without needing to solder the pins yourself.
- LED
- A light-emitting diode is a small electronic component that lights up when current flows through it in the correct direction. In this kit, LEDs create the flashing effect, so polarity and correct soldering matter for the project to work.
- LiPo
- A lithium polymer rechargeable battery commonly used in portable electronics projects. It matters because LiPo batteries need correct charging circuitry and care, and this board includes hardware intended for that battery type.
- LIS3DH
- A specific low-power 3-axis accelerometer chip made by STMicroelectronics. Knowing the chip part number helps you find the correct datasheet, libraries, wiring details, and limits such as its safe voltage range.
- NeoPixel
- A type of addressable LED system where colour data is sent along a single digital data line from one LED or controller to the next. Compatibility matters because the timing and signal format must match for the lights or driver board to respond correctly.
- RAM
- RAM is temporary memory used while a device is running, and its contents are lost when power is removed. A “Run in RAM” mode is useful for testing settings without permanently programming the module, but it may not support every feature.
- STEMMA
- A plug-and-cable connection system used on some maker electronics boards to make wiring simpler. If a product uses STEMMA, you need the matching cable or connector type to plug it in without soldering.
- TFT
- A thin-film transistor display is a common type of colour LCD used for graphics screens. Knowing a product is for TFTs helps you check that the driver board matches the display’s connector, resolution, backlight, and signalling method.
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