Microcontroller board Raspberry RP2040 (Raspberry Pi Pico) — RP2040 MCU, ARM Cortex-M0+, 26 GPIO pins

Raspberry Pi Pico is a compact microcontroller board based on the Raspberry RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor. Designed for embedded projects and prototyping, the board offers 26 multi-function GPIO pins that support digital input/output, PWM and common serial interfaces. Its small form factor and flexible GPIO layout make the Raspberry RP2040 (Raspberry Pi Pico) suitable for sensor integration, control tasks and low-power applications where space and efficiency are important.

Advantages

The Raspberry RP2040 microcontroller delivers dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ performance in a compact module while keeping a simple hardware interface. With 26 multi-function GPIO pins the board provides multiple digital I/O channels and PWM outputs, enabling control of actuators, LEDs and reading of digital sensors. The board’s form factor and GPIO flexibility simplify mounting on breadboards and integration into custom PCBs for prototypes and small-scale projects.

Suitable for

• Embedded control and automation prototypes
• Sensor interfacing and data acquisition
• Educational projects and microcontroller learning
• Low-power and space-constrained applications
• Hobbyist electronics and rapid prototyping

Key specifications

• Processor: RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+
• GPIO: 26 multi-function General Purpose I/O pins
• I/O capabilities: digital input/output, PWM, common serial interfaces
• Form factor: compact microcontroller board suitable for breadboards and small enclosures
• Typical uses: embedded projects, prototyping, sensors and education

How to use

Connect the Raspberry RP2040 (Raspberry Pi Pico) to a development host via its power and programming interface, then configure development tools or a suitable SDK to compile and upload firmware. Use the available GPIO pins for digital inputs and outputs, PWM signals and serial communication as required by your project. Follow standard electrical practices for voltage levels and pin protection when connecting sensors, actuators or external modules.

Usage recommendations

For stable operation, verify voltage compatibility of attached devices and avoid sourcing or sinking currents beyond the GPIO pin limits. Use level shifting when interfacing with higher-voltage peripherals, and consult RP2040 documentation for recommended clocking and power modes to optimize performance and power consumption.