EPI 32U4 – USB Type-C development board

The Epi 32U4 is an open hardware device designed by Ping Hobbyelektronik, offering a powerful solution in an extremely compact form factor. This Arduino-compatible ATmega32U4 USB Type-C development board allows for easy integration into a wide range of projects. Customers can choose to solder it directly onto a PCB or opt for a less permanent mounting solution using the included headers.

At the heart of the Epi 32U4 is the ATmega32U4, a low-power Microchip 8-bit AVR RISC-based microcontroller. Its unique architecture enables the execution of powerful instructions in a single clock cycle. This efficiency translates into impressive throughput, approaching one million instructions per second (MIPS) per megahertz (MHz). With this capability, users can strike an optimal balance between power consumption and processing speed, tailoring their projects to specific performance requirements.

Specifications of Epi 32U4:

• Microcontroller: ATmega32U4 with a 16MHz crystal
• USB: Type-C port
• Input/output interfaces: 24x
• LED: Pin 13
• Surge protection: ESD and surge protection on USB data lines and power input
• Operating voltage: Runs at 4.5 to 5.5 V for the 16 MHz version, down to 2.7 V at 8 MHz
• Dimensions: 22.75×12.75 mm

The board does not have a dedicated LED for RX, TX, and power status. Instead, the Epi 32U4 includes a single LED on pin 13, primarily intended for testing purposes.

Interestingly, the Epi 32U4 has the ability to function as a USB device. This feature makes it particularly well-suited for projects such as compact keyboards, where its small size is an advantage. The inclusion of a USB Type-C connector ensures that designs are compatible with the latest standards. Furthermore, the Epi 32U4 offers more available IO ports compared to a standard Pro Micro, making it a suitable choice for projects where space is not a limiting factor.

The Epi 32U4 is currently seeking crowd support on CrowdSupply with a raised amount of $763 as of writing. Interested individuals can contribute to the project and secure their own board at a purchase price of $25. Interested developers can also contribute to the ongoing development of Epi 32U4 on the official GitHub page.

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