Waveshare Pico Dual Expander — dual GPIO expander board 2 x 20 for Raspberry Pi Pico

Waveshare Pico Dual Expander is a dual GPIO expander board designed specifically for the Raspberry Pi Pico. It provides two 20-pin (2 x 20) GPIO connectors that reproduce the Pico's I/O in an expanded, easy-to-access layout while keeping the Pico's compact form factor. The board is intended to increase available pin access for prototyping, development and embedded applications that require connecting multiple sensors, modules or peripherals.

Advantages

The Pico Dual Expander offers two full 20-pin connectors that mirror the Pico's GPIO, simplifying wiring and enabling simultaneous connection of multiple devices without crowding the Pico. Its compact design preserves the original footprint of the Raspberry Pi Pico while providing clearer signal routing and easier physical access to power, ground and I/O pins. The board reduces the need for jumper wires directly on the Pico pins, improving reliability during testing and repeated prototyping.

Suitable for

• Rapid prototyping and breadboard-free setups
• Embedded projects that require multiple sensor or module connections
• Development and testing where frequent pin access is needed
• Educational projects and electronics teaching labs

Key specifications

• Two 20-pin GPIO connectors compatible with Raspberry Pi Pico pinout
• Support for full set of Pico I/O including power and ground pins
• Compact board size that preserves Pico form factor for enclosure and rack compatibility
• Soldered or header-mounted connection style for secure mechanical and electrical contact
• Typical low-profile PCB suitable for tabletop development and breadboard alternatives

How to use

Install the Raspberry Pi Pico onto the expander by aligning the Pico board pins with the expander's 20-pin connectors and seating it gently until secure. After mounting, connect sensors, modules or peripherals to the expander's two 20-pin headers according to the Pico pinout. Ensure correct power and ground connections before applying power. Use standard GPIO libraries and tools for the Raspberry Pi Pico to address connected devices; no additional configuration is required at the hardware level beyond correct pin mapping.

Usage recommendations

For reliable operation, route power-hungry peripherals to separate power rails or supply lines rather than drawing large current through the Pico. Verify pin assignments for I2C, SPI and UART when connecting multiple modules to avoid bus conflicts. Use proper decoupling capacitors and secure header mounting for projects that involve vibration or frequent manipulation.