Xero MCU based on STM32F411 microcontroller With a 100MHz Cortex-M4 core

 If you’re a maker, student, or embedded systems pro looking for serious performance in a pint-sized package, the Xero MCU deserves a top spot on your radar. Just launched on Kickstarter, this powerful new development board is based on the robust STM32F411CEU6 microcontroller and brings a perfect blend of horsepower, versatility, and compact design to the open-source hardware scene.

Xero MCU Highlights:

• Microcontroller: STM32F411CEU6 (100MHz ARM Cortex-M4 with FPU)
• Memory: 512KB Flash, 128KB SRAM
• Form Factor: Ultra-compact (half the size of standard boards)
• Programming Interfaces: USB Type-C, ST-Link Debug support
• Languages & IDEs: C/C++, Arduino, MicroPython, CircuitPython
• Connectivity: Easy access GPIO, onboard debug pins
• Design: Castellated edges for seamless PCB integration
• Header Options: Available with or without soldered headers

The Xero MCU is built around the STM32F411, a high-performance microcontroller from STMicroelectronics. With a 100MHz Cortex-M4 core and Floating Point Unit (FPU), it’s engineered for demanding real-time applications—from robotics and control systems to wearables and smart IoT devices.

Xero MCU Specifications

MCU – STMicroelectronics STM32F411 ARM Cortex-M4 processor @ 100 MHz with FPU
System Memory – 128 KB SRAM
Storage – 512 KB Flash memory

Connectivity

• USB Type-C for power and programming
• GPIO breakout for essential I/O access

Debugging

• Onboard debug pins
• ST-Link debugger support
• Compatible with STM32CubeIDE, PlatformIO, and other C/C++ IDEs

Programming Languages

• C/C++
• MicroPython
• CircuitPython
• Arduino IDE support

Form Factor

• Ultra-compact design (approx. half the size of standard dev boards)
• Castellated edges for direct PCB integration

Headers

• Available with or without pre-soldered headers

Dimensions

• Board – ~38 x 20 mm (approx.)

Target Applications

• Embedded systems
• IoT devices
• Wearables
• Robotics
• Education and prototyping

And with 512KB of Flash and 128KB of SRAM, there's plenty of room for complex logic, sensor data processing, or rich user interfaces. In other words: big power, tiny board.

One of the most exciting aspects of Xero MCU is its design flexibility:

• Breadboarding? Grab the version with pre-soldered headers.
• Going production? Opt for the headerless version and take advantage of the castellated edges to directly solder it onto your custom PCBs like an SMD module.

This makes it equally suitable for rapid prototyping and mass production.

Xero MCU includes onboard debug pins and full compatibility with the ST-Link Debugger, supporting seamless flashing and debugging in environments like STM32CubeIDE, PlatformIO, and more. Whether you’re a beginner or an embedded veteran, the toolchain support is rock solid.

And for the code-first crowd, Xero MCU supports:

• MicroPython & CircuitPython for rapid development
• C/C++ for full control and performance
• Arduino IDE for accessibility and ease of use

With Xero MCU, you get a development board that doesn’t compromise. It's compact, versatile, and powerful—backed by the ever-reliable STM32 ecosystem. Whether you’re prototyping in your garage or scaling for production, Xero MCU is built to keep up.

If you're looking for your next open-source hardware project, this board is a killer addition to your toolkit. 👉 Check out the Xero MCU on Kickstarter and support the launch!

OpenMV N6 & AE3 Low-Power, Python-Programmable AI Cameras with MicroPython Support

 Introducing the OpenMV N6 and OpenMV AE3, two powerful yet low-power cameras designed for real-time computer vision applications. Whether you’re building a smart security system, automating industrial processes, or creating AI-powered robotics, these versatile cameras are built to meet your needs.

The OpenMV N6 and AE3 cameras are designed to bring efficient AI processing to embedded systems. With onboard AI acceleration, advanced sensors, and robust connectivity options, these cameras excel in various real-world applications.

Both cameras run MicroPython, making them highly accessible for developers familiar with Python. Combined with the powerful OpenMV IDE, the N6 and AE3 offer a seamless development experience for computer vision and AI model deployment.

Key Features and Applications

Onboard AI Acceleration

• The OpenMV N6 leverages the STM32N6 processor with a 1 GHz Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of 600 GOPS of AI compute power. This allows for real-time object detection with models like YOLO running at 30+ FPS.
• The OpenMV AE3, powered by the Alif Ensemble E3, boasts dual NPUs that enable parallel AI model execution, ensuring efficient processing for tasks like motion detection, sound recognition, and more.

Ultra Low Power Efficiency

• The OpenMV AE3 consumes just 0.25W when running YOLO, 0.12W in idle mode, and <2.5mW in deep sleep. This power efficiency allows it to operate on batteries for months or even years.
• The AE3’s deep-sleep mode ensures minimal power draw while waking up on sound, motion, or scheduled events.

Versatile AI and Vision Capabilities

Both cameras support a wide range of computer vision algorithms, including:

• Color tracking
• AprilTag detection
• QR and Barcode reading
• AI-powered object detection, pose estimation, and image segmentation

Flexible Integration and Control

• GPIO pins allow the N6 and AE3 to interface with other hardware directly.
• They support I2C, SPI, UART, and CAN protocols, offering seamless integration with sensors, motors, and microcontrollers.

OpenMV N6 Specifications: 

• MCU – STM32N6 with a 1GHz Neural Processing Unit (NPU) delivering 600 GOPS
• Camera – Up to 5MP with Image Signal Processor (ISP) support
• Video Recording – Hardware H.264 encoder for MP4 video recording
• Storage – μSD card slot for expandable storage
• Connectivity – WiFi/BLE, Gigabit Ethernet, and USB support
• Power Supply – 5V via USB-C or via external battery (support for LiPo, DC power supplies, etc.)
• Power Consumption – Designed for efficient power use with adjustable power profiles

OpenMV AE3 Specifications:

MCU – Alif Ensemble E3

• Dual-core CPU
• Arm Cortex-M55 core @ 400 MHz
• Arm Cortex-M55 core @ 160 MHz
• Dual AI accelerator
• Arm Ethos-U55 microNPU @ 400 MHz (256 MAC/c, 204 GOPs)
• Arm Ethos-U55 microNPU @ 160 MHz (128 MAC/c, 46 GOPs)
• Both NPUs can be used simultaneously
• 2D GPU for image scaling
• Memory – 13.5MB SRAM
• Storage – 32MB flash (200MB/s read speed)
• Camera – 1MP Color Global Shutter with 120 FPS at VGA resolution
• Audio – Built-in microphone
• Wireless – 2.4 GHz WiFi 4 and Bluetooth LE 5.1
• USB – 1x USB-C port (480 Mbps)
• Sensors:
• 8x8 ToF sensor with a 4-meter range
• 6-axis IMU sensor (accelerometer and gyroscope)
• Expansion:
• Qwiic connector
• 7 GPIO through-holes with 3.3V and GND
• 10-pin GPIO B2B header on the back of the board
• Debugging – SWD via Edge Connector
• Miscellaneous:
• User Button and User RGB LED
• Power Supply – 5V via USB-C
• Power Consumption (5V):
• 60mA (0.25W) when running YOLO at 30 FPS
• 30mA (0.12W) while idling
• <500uA (2.5mW) in deep-sleep mode for extended battery life
• Dimensions – 2.54 x 2.54 cm (board only)

The OpenMV N6 and AE3 offer a range of accessories to expand functionality:

• Thermal Camera Sensors – For advanced thermal image processing
• Visible Light Camera Sensors – Including a 5MP HDR camera and a Prophesee GENX320 Event-Based Vision Camera
• Servo Shield – Ideal for robotics and automation
• Gigabit PoE Ethernet Shield – Perfect for building an IP camera
• OLED Breakout Board – With a 128x128 OLED screen, joystick, and GPIO access

Pricing and Availability

• OpenMV AE3: $80
• OpenMV N6: $120
• Bundle Offer (N6 + AE3): $200

Add-ons and accessories are available separately to expand the camera’s capabilities.

The OpenMV N6 and AE3 is currently available on Kickstarter are powerful tools for developers, hobbyists, and engineers seeking to embed AI into real-world applications. With incredible performance, low power consumption, and Python programmability, they are ideal solutions for computer vision, IoT, and AI-driven projects.

Tobor Robotics: Open-Source Modular Robotics Platform for Automation

Tobor Robotics is a highly customizable, open-source modular robotics platform designed to bring industrial-grade automation to your desktop. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a maker, or an engineer looking to streamline your workflow, Tobor offers unmatched versatility, allowing you to combine robotic arms, sensors, actuators, and more into a powerful, programmable system. From precision assembly to creative prototyping, Tobor empowers you to build automation solutions tailored to your specific needs — all with an open-source foundation.

Key Features & Specifications

• Open-source ecosystem – Fully customizable hardware and software
• Highly modular design – Add robotic arms, toolheads, sensors, actuators, and vision systems
• Industrial precision – Achieves up to 0.031 mm (0.001 in) per step resolution
• Large working area – Over 0.5 m² (5.4 ft²) workspace with an 800 mm wingspan
• Multiple programming options – Python, G-code, collaborative mode, game controller, and visual programming (Floe)
• Integrated web interface – Real-time remote monitoring, control, and 3D code preview
• Support for Edge Boards – Expandable with Evezor Edge Boards for added functionality
• Pre-designed toolheads – Pen plotter, Z-stage with suction gripper, pick-and-place SMT assembly tools
• Drag-and-drop programming – Floe visual interface for quick project creation and GUI design
• Collaborative learning mode – Record manual movements for playback automation
• Wide compatibility – Works with CAM software like Autodesk, Cura, Inkscape, KiCad, Eagle, Altium

Tobor stands out as a true all-in-one robotics ecosystem. Unlike traditional robotic arms or CNC machines that are limited to predefined tasks, Tobor’s modular approach allows you to:

• Combine mechanical, electronic, and software components seamlessly
• Leverage open-source flexibility, enabling you to modify and extend both hardware and software
• Easily switch between functions — drawing, cutting, pick-and-place assembly, and more, all on the same platform
• Program using Python, G-code, or even a game controller for hands-on learning
• Benefit from real-time remote control and visualization via the built-in web interface
• Utilize collaborative programming – just guide Tobor with your hands, and it learns!
• Use Floe’s drag-and-drop builder to create custom workflows without coding

This makes Tobor not just a robot, but a complete ecosystem for desktop automation, ideal for creative prototyping, precision manufacturing, educational projects, and automation learning.

Applications & Use Cases

• Desktop pick-and-place automation (SMT assembly, PCB manufacturing)
• Rapid prototyping and iterative design workflows
• Art and creative automation (pen plotting, drawing, engraving)
• CNC-like precision carving and milling
• Collaborative automation research and development
• Education and robotics learning environments
• Automated testing stations for electronics and mechanical parts
• Lab automation and scientific workflows

Comparison with Similar Products

Feature	Tobor Robotics	Dobot Magician	uArm Swift Pro
Modularity	Highly modular	Limited	Fixed design
Open-Source	Fully open-source	Proprietary	Partially open
Programming Options	Python, G-code, Floe, Gamepad	Blockly, Python, G-code	Blockly, Python
Toolhead Options	Wide range available	Limited	Limited
Workspace Size	Over 0.5 m²	Small	Small
Precision	0.031 mm per step	0.1 mm	0.2 mm
Price	$$ Moderate	$$ Moderate	$ Lower

Note: Data based on available information; subject to change.

Pricing & Availability

• Official Price: $458
• Available At: Sold and shipped by Crowd Supply

Tobor’s pricing reflects its advanced capabilities and flexibility, offering industrial-grade features at a fraction of traditional automation systems.

 

Tobor Robotics is the ultimate open-source automation platform for makers, educators, and professionals alike. With its modular design, extensive toolhead options, and wide programming compatibility, Tobor caters to everyone from beginners learning robotics to engineers developing advanced automation systems. Its combination of affordability, flexibility, and precision makes it a must-have for any serious electronics enthusiast or embedded developer.

Whether you want to automate your PCB assembly line, create custom artwork, or build a personal robotic assistant, Tobor offers the tools and flexibility to make it happen.

What would you build with Tobor Robotics? Share your ideas in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to Top DIY Electronics for the latest reviews, tutorials, and product spotlights for makers and developers.

Hornet Nest Alarm Panel integration with Home Assistant and ESPHome

 The Hornet Nest Alarm Panel is a powerful, open-source PoE-enabled security panel designed to bridge the gap between traditional wired alarm systems and modern smart home platforms like Home Assistant. Whether you're a home automation enthusiast or a professional installer, this panel offers exceptional flexibility, seamless integration with ESPHome, and full transparency through its open-source hardware and firmware. With up to 42 optoisolated zones, customizable outputs, and support for Wiegand keypads and smoke detectors, the Hornet Nest Alarm Panel brings professional-grade security features into the hands of makers and DIY home automation enthusiasts.

Key Features & Specifications

• 42 optoisolated zones for robust, customizable security coverage
• 6 MOSFET-controlled 12V outputs for powering sirens, strobe lights, or other external devices
• 6 3.3V trigger outputs for advanced automation scenarios
• 5 additional wESP32 I/Os for even more expansion options
• Individual zone and output indicators for easy monitoring and troubleshooting
• PoE-enabled power with support for external 12V DC and USB Type-C options (wESP32 module required)
• Support for Wiegand keypads to enhance physical security
• Pre-flashed with ESPHome firmware for out-of-the-box compatibility with Home Assistant
• Qwiic expansion connector for adding future sensors or modules
• MOSFET-controlled 12V reset for 4-wire smoke detectors for added safety
• Dimensions: 262 x 188 mm (10.31 x 7.40 inches)
• Fully open-source hardware and firmware (GPL & MIT licensed

Comparison with Similar Products

	Hornet Nest Alarm Panel	Konnected Alarm Panel Pro (12 Zone)
Input Zones	42 optoisolated zones	12 digital input zones
Outputs	6 MOSFET-controlled outputs (12V devices)	3 dedicated outputs (2x 12V, 2x 3.3V trigger outputs)
Additional Outputs	6x 3.3V trigger outputs, 5x wESP32 I/Os	None
Smoke Detector Reset	MOSFET-controlled 12V reset for 4-wire smoke detectors	No dedicated feature
Power Options	PoE-enabled, external 12 V DC, or USB Type-C wESP32 module	PoE-enabled or external power
Status Indicators	Individual zone & output indicators	1 status LED
Open Source	Fully open source with GPL and MIT licensing	Partially open source
Firmware	Pre-flashed with ESPHome	Pre-flashed with Konnected firmware
Keypad Support	Wiegand keypad support	No keypad support
Expandable Zones	Qwiic expansion connector for additional functionality	Expandable with add-on boards
Power Input Features	Fused with flexible input options	No additional features
Sensing Trigger	3-23 V DC	None
Price	$299	~$229

The Hornet Nest Alarm Panel isn’t just another security interface — it’s a future-proof, open-source platform built to evolve with your smart home. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Direct ESPHome Integration: Pre-flashed with ESPHome, it connects effortlessly to Home Assistant, minimizing setup complexity.
• Unmatched Zone Capacity: With 42 optoisolated zones, it outclasses most consumer alarm panels, ideal for complex setups.
• Triple Power Options: Choose between PoE, 12V DC, or USB Type-C, making it adaptable to any installation environment.
• Extensible with Open Source Flexibility: Whether adding a water leak sensor or a Wiegand keypad, the open design and Qwiic connector make expansions a breeze.
• Transparent and Secure: Being fully open-source, both hardware and firmware are publicly available, giving users complete control over how their security system works. 

The Hornet Nest Alarm Panel is available now for $299. You can purchase it directly from the Crowd Supply.

• Crowd Supply: Hornet Nest Alarm Panel
• Documentation & Source Code: GitHub Repository Link
• ESPHome Setup Guide: ESPHome Documentation Link
• Home Assistant Integration Guide: Home Assistant Docs Link

The Hornet Nest Alarm Panel brings professional-grade security into the hands of DIY makers and home automation enthusiasts. Its rich combination of 42 zones, open-source firmware, PoE support, and seamless ESPHome integration makes it the ideal choice for:

• Homeowners wanting flexible security in smart homes
• Hobbyists combining legacy wired sensors with modern automation
• Professional installers looking for transparent, customizable solutions

With full documentation, ongoing community support, and robust features, the Hornet Nest Alarm Panel is a standout security automation device. If you're looking to upgrade your smart home security, this open-source powerhouse deserves your attention.

Have you integrated a wired alarm system into your smart home? Share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest in open-source hardware, SBC reviews, and smart home automation tips.

Axiometa BrodBoost-C: A USB Type-C Breadboard Power Supply with Adjustable Voltage

 For electronics enthusiasts and makers, having a reliable and efficient power supply is crucial for any breadboard setup. Axiometa's BrodBoost-C is a USB Type-C breadboard power supply that delivers just that, combining simplicity, functionality, and power flexibility in one compact package.

Key Features of BrodBoost-C

The BrodBoost-C offers adjustable voltage from 3.3V to 5V DC, making it suitable for a wide range of projects that require different voltages. Whether you're working with 3.3V logic chips or 5V components, this power supply can easily adapt to meet your needs.

The power supply can provide up to 1A of current, ensuring that it can handle your moderate power requirements. Plus, the USB Type-C connector ensures easy, modern connectivity to your power source, eliminating the hassle of traditional barrel connectors or micro-USB ports.

Additional Features

• Dual Rails: The BrodBoost-C powers both the power and ground rails of a breadboard, so you won’t need separate power sources for each.
• On/Off Switch & LED Indicator: A simple on/off switch, along with a red power LED, lets you easily manage and monitor the power status.
• Safety Features: The board is built with short circuit protection, and the input features a ferrite bead for noise suppression and decoupling capacitors to ensure smooth, noise-free operation.
• Built-in Fuse Protection: This feature safeguards your breadboard and components from unexpected power surges.

How It Works

The voltage regulation on the BrodBoost-C is straightforward and efficient. The 5V output is selected by USB CC pins with 5.1 k resistors, and for 3.3V, a step-down AMS1117-3.3 regulator is used. This ensures stable output, even as your power needs change.

Specifications at a Glance:

• Output Voltage: Adjustable between 3.3V and 5V DC
• Maximum Current: 1A
• Ports:
• USB Type-C for power input
• 2x 2×5 2.54 mm breadboard-compatible power and ground rails
• 2x 3-pin 2.54 mm selection headers with jumper caps
• Safety: Short-circuit protection
• Input Filtering: Ferrite bead and decoupling capacitors
• Power Indicators: Red LED and ON/OFF power switch
• Dimensions: 54 x 19.5 x 11.4 mm
• Weight: About 20 grams

Open-Source Hardware

One of the standout features of the BrodBoost-C is that it is fully open-source. Axiometa has released all the necessary documentation, including KiCad schematics, PCB layouts, Gerbers, BoM (Bill of Materials), and even a STEP file for the 3D model. This allows makers to modify and customize the design to their specific needs or build their own version of the board.

Pricing and Availability

The BrodBoost-C is currently available on Crowd Supply with a funding goal of $5000. You can pledge $32 to receive one of these breadboard power supplies, with free worldwide shipping. The expected shipping date is July 11, 2025.

While the price may seem slightly higher compared to alternatives like the XIAO Powerbread, which is priced at $19.99, it's important to consider that the BrodBoost-C comes with added features like fuse protection, adjustable voltage, and the benefit of being open-source. Additionally, when purchasing alternatives, you might find yourself adding extra costs for the boards or shipping.

The Axiometa BrodBoost-C is a solid choice for makers looking for a reliable, flexible, and safe power supply for their breadboard projects. Its adjustable voltage range, USB Type-C input, and open-source nature make it a great option for both beginners and seasoned electronics enthusiasts.

Arduino Nano Matter Internet of Things (IoT) development board developed in partnership with Silicon Labs

 Arduino has once again pushed the boundaries of innovation in IoT with the launch of its latest development board, the Arduino Nano Matter. Designed for creating Matter-compliant smart home devices, this new board merges Arduino's signature ease of use with the powerful Silicon Labs® MGM240S microcontroller. Here's what makes this board an essential addition to your IoT toolkit.

Overview: Arduino Nano Matter

The Arduino Nano Matter is not just another IoT development board. Built to support the Matter smart home connectivity standard, it empowers developers to create interactive, connected solutions with minimal effort. Arduino collaborated with Silicon Labs to equip this board with cutting-edge capabilities, ensuring it meets the demands of modern smart home projects.

Initially introduced as a "community preview" earlier this year, the Arduino Nano Matter is now widely available, marking a significant milestone in Arduino's journey to simplify smart home innovation.

Arduino Nano Matter Key Features and Specifications:

The Arduino Nano Matter is packed with advanced features, making it one of the most versatile boards in the IoT ecosystem:

Powerful Silicon Labs MGM240S Microcontroller

• Processor: 32-bit Arm Cortex-M33 running at up to 78MHz, featuring DSP and FPU acceleration.
• Memory: 256kB SRAM and 1,536kB flash memory.
• Connectivity:
• IEEE 802.15.4 support for Thread and other protocols.
• Bluetooth 5.3 Low Energy (BLE) with Bluetooth Mesh support.

GPIO and Analog Capabilities

• 22 exposed GPIO pins, all supporting external interrupts and PWM output (up to 5 simultaneous PWM outputs).
• 20 ADC pins (12-bit resolution) and 4 DAC pins (8- to 12-bit resolution).
• Each pin can source 40mA and sink 28mA at 3.3V.

Smart Home Connectivity

• Built-in support for the Matter standard, enabling seamless integration with smart home devices.
• Compatibility with Zigbee and OpenThread, providing additional connectivity options.

Breadboard-Friendly Design

• Compact and developer-friendly layout.
• USB Type-C interface for power, data, and Serial Wire Debugging without the need for external probes.

The standout feature of the Arduino Nano Matter is its Matter compatibility. This emerging standard simplifies device communication and ensures seamless interaction across ecosystems. With Matter, you can build devices that work with popular smart home platforms like Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa.

Arduino has also designed the board with user convenience in mind. Whether you're an experienced developer or just starting, the board's robust features and Arduino's extensive documentation make it easy to dive into Matter-enabled development.

Arduino Nano Matter Applications and Use Cases

The Arduino Nano Matter is a versatile platform that can be used to develop a wide range of IoT applications, such as:

• Smart Relays: Automate lights, appliances, or other home devices.
• Temperature Sensors: Monitor and control your home's climate efficiently.
• Smart Fans: Build advanced cooling systems with dynamic speed control.
• RGB Smart Lights: Create Matter-certified smart lighting solutions for homes or offices.

Arduino provides detailed tutorials for these projects, ensuring a smooth start for developers of all skill levels.

Arduino Nano Matter Pricing and Availability

The Arduino Nano Matter is now available for order on the Arduino Store at a highly competitive price of $19.90. This affordability, combined with its advanced features, makes it a must-have for IoT developers looking to embrace the Matter standard.

For more information, including detailed specifications and tutorials, visit the Arduino Store.

The Arduino Nano Matter is a game-changer for smart home IoT development. Its combination of powerful hardware, Matter compatibility, and Arduino's user-friendly ecosystem opens new doors for makers and professionals alike. Whether you're upgrading an existing project or starting something new, this board provides the perfect platform for innovative, connected solutions.

If you're passionate about open-source hardware and IoT, the Arduino Nano Matter deserves a spot on your workbench. Don't miss the chance to explore what this groundbreaking board can do for your smart home projects.