Raspberry Pi Pico W (RP2040) is a compact development board that integrates the Raspberry RP2040 dual‑core ARM Cortex‑M0+ microcontroller at 133 MHz, 264 KB SRAM and 2 MB Flash, together with the CYW43439 wireless subsystem providing 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n). The module exposes 26 GPIO pins operating at 3.3 V, includes a built‑in temperature sensor and is programmable in C/C++ and MicroPython via the microUSB connector.
Advantages
The board combines a low‑power dual‑core RP2040 processor and on‑board Wi‑Fi for wireless connectivity in a small form factor. It offers a variety of interfaces (SPI, I2C, UART), multiple PWM channels, ADC inputs and flexible programmable I/O (PIO) for non‑standard peripherals. Powering is possible via microUSB (5 V) or the VSYS pin (1.8–5.5 V), allowing battery operation.
Suitable for
- IoT prototypes and Wi‑Fi connected sensors
- Embedded projects and small controllers
- Education, learning C/C++ and MicroPython programming
- Battery‑powered devices using VSYS input
Key specifications
- System: Raspberry Pi RP2040
- Core: Dual‑core ARM Cortex‑M0+ at 133 MHz
- Wireless subsystem: CYW43439
- Wireless: Wi‑Fi 2.4 GHz IEEE 802.11 b/g/n
- SRAM: 264 KB; Flash: 2 MB
- GPIO: 26 pins (3.3 V); 23 digital + 3 ADC pins as typical pinout
- Interfaces: 2x UART, 2x I2C, 2x SPI, up to 16 PWM channels, 3x 12‑bit ADC, 8x PIO
- Power: 5 V (USB) or VSYS 1.8–5.5 V
- Logic voltage: 3.3 V
- Connector: microUSB (power and data)
- Dimensions: 51.3 × 21 × 3.9 mm
How to use
Connect the Pico W to a computer with a microUSB cable for power, programming and serial communication. Install the required toolchain or MicroPython firmware and upload programs via USB. Use the available GPIOs and interfaces (SPI, I2C, UART, ADC, PWM, PIO) to connect sensors, actuators and peripherals. For battery operation, supply the module through the VSYS pin within the specified 1.8–5.5 V range.
Usage recommendations
Operate GPIO at 3.3 V logic levels only; do not expose pins to higher voltages. For stable Wi‑Fi performance, ensure a reliable 5 V supply when using USB or an appropriate battery with sufficient current capability when using VSYS. Use level shifting when interfacing with 5 V devices.
