ShaRPiKeebo handheld Linux computer based on Raspberry Pi Zero (2) W ships with a LoRa radio (Crowdfunding) – CNX Software
CNX Software – Embedded Systems News
Reviews, tutorials and the latest news about embedded systems, IoT, open-source hardware, SBC's, microcontrollers, processors, and more
Morpheans ShaRPiKeebo is a portable Linux computer based on Raspberry Pi Zero W or Zero 2 W SBC that reminds me of the Allwinner R8 powered PocketCHIP handheld computer that was introduced in 2016, and was quite popular (for a niche product) at the time.
The ShaRPiKeebo comes with a physical QWERTY keyboard, a daylight-readable screen, and Wi-Fi & Bluetooth connectivity, but also adds a 433 MHz LoRa radio that should make it usable as an off-the-grid communicator. Just like PocketCHIP, the ShaRPiKeebo can be used for system administration, retro-gaming, pen testing, STEM education, and all sort of maker projects.
ShaRPiKeebo specifications:
ShaRPiKeebo is open-source hardware with KiCAD schematics and PCB layout, as well as the DXF, STL, and Solidworks files available on Github. I’m unable to locate the firmware running on the ATMega MCU, and I suppose the Raspberry Pi Zero W/2 W would run a custom version of Raspberry Pi OS.
What I did not realize when I started to write about ShaRPiKeebo is that it’s also quite smaller than the PocketCHIP with its 4.25-inch display, as can be seen in the comparison table below also including Keyboard FeatherWing and Morpheans Blak RPi, an earlier model from ShaRPiKeebo developers.
Morpheans has just launched the ShaRPiKeebo on Crowd Supply with a $45,000 funding target. Rewards start at $150 for the bare portable Linux computer without Raspberry Pi SBC or battery. US backers can purchase the latrer separately for $15 (3,000 mAh LiPo battery) or $22 (6,000 mAh LiPo battery), but people outside of the US will have to purchase their own locally. The enclosure is somehow not offered as an option either, so you’d have to print it out yourself if you need it. Shipping adds $8 to the US, and $18 to the rest of the world, and backers should expect their rewards to ship by the end of November 2022.
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
Support CNX Software! Donate via PayPal or cryptocurrencies, become a Patron on Patreon, or buy review samples
Related posts:
Should work with the MangoPi MQ-Pro also.