element14 has launched the MICROSTACK™ range, a series of exclusive accessories for the Raspberry Pi that will make it quicker, simpler and easier for all levels of user to create and prototype physical devices for the next generation of Internet of Things products. The first MICROSTACK products in the range provide GPS positioning, accelerometer and prototyping modules.
MICROSTACK, modules are the building blocks for The Internet of Things for All. MICROSTACK was created by the designers of the hugely popular original PiFace™ Digital and PiFace Control & Display accessories for the Raspberry Pi and the recent PiFace revisions for the Raspberry Pi model B+. MICROSTACK builds on the simple, yet powerful ethos of PiFace offering many more possibilities in a more connected world.
MICROSTACK is a family of compact, reusable, stacking accessory boards with a common form factor, software and interface connections, built on a platform specific base board (adapter board) for the Raspberry Pi. The MICROSTACK Base Board for Raspberry Pi brings the MICROSTACK family to the Raspberry Pi, allowing the first of a series of accessories including GPS, Accelerometer and Proto functions to be connected.
§ The MICROSTACK GPS module provides easy plug and play solution for designs requiring GPS positioning to create geo-location aware projects. The module features standalone data logging and also brings globally synchronised, highly accurate time keeping to the Raspberry Pi. It includes an ultra slim Patch on Top (POT) module with an embedded 15x15mm patch antenna with external socket as one of the most advanced and complete GPS modules to get started with.
§ The MICROSTACK ACCELEROMETER module provides easy, plug and play integration and development for designs requiring accelerometer such as robotics, tilt sensors, gaming, tracking and motion. It is based around a MMA8491Q, a low power, 3-axis low-g accelerometer offering multi-range 14-bit ±8g resolution.
§ The MICROSTACK PROTOBOARD module is a prototyping module allowing users to create their own circuit designs to be used with the Microstack form factor.
The highly integrated, low power MICROSTACK modules can also be used in breadboard or integrated into full custom PCBs, providing a solution from prototyping to production. Furthermore, like PiFace, MICROSTACK will both engage and nurture beginners that Raspberry Pi has attracted into the maker space, as well as providing powerful building blocks cutting development time for established engineers.
The supporting software is easy to use, with easy installation, and example solutions demonstrating the power of MICROSTACK written in just five lines of Python.
These products are just the start of MICROSTACK’s mission to make the Internet of Things for all. New modules as well as tutorials guides and application examples will be added to the family towards the end of the year.
For more information on the accessories and to buy, visit www.element14.com where a selection of Pi Projects is also available to get started.
