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LaunchPico v0.95: A Rocket-Themed Launcher for Your Pi Pico

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LaunchPico v0.95: A Rocket-Themed Launcher for Your Pi Pico Say hello to LaunchPico v0.95, a custom launcher I built for the Raspberry Pi Pico W using MicroPython! If you’ve got a Pico W, a small LCD, and a few buttons, this project turns your microcontroller into a program-launching hub with a fun rocket ship vibe. It’s perfect for beginners who’ve flashed MicroPython and want to level up. Let’s break it down! What Is LaunchPico? LaunchPico v0.95 is like a mini menu system for your Pico W. When you power it on, it boots to a 16x2 LCD showing "LaunchPico v0.95," then loads a list of programs you can scroll through and run with buttons. Here’s how it works under the hood: Startup: The LCD flashes "LaunchPico v0.95" for 3 seconds, then shows "R:Up B:Dn G:GO!" with "Press Green" below it. This is your entry point—press Green (GP14) to jump into the menu. File Scanning: LaunchPico searches the Pico W’s root directory (/) for .py files....

Build Your Own YouTube Subscriber Counter with a Raspberry Pi Pico W

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Build Your Own YouTube Subscriber Counter with a Raspberry Pi Pico W Posted on February 25, 2025 by Never Code Hey there, tech tinkerers! Want to make a cool gadget that shows off your YouTube subscriber count in real-time, complete with a little celebratory jingle when you gain a fan and a sad tune when you lose one? You’re in the right place! This project uses a Raspberry Pi Pico W, a small LCD screen, and a buzzer to create a fun desktop counter. Don’t worry if you’re new to this—I'll guide you step-by-step, and by the end, you’ll have something awesome to show off. Here’s what we’re building: a device that checks your YouTube subscriber count every 8 seconds, displays your channel name and count on a 1602 LCD, and plays a tune on a piezo buzzer when your numbers change. Let’s dive in! What You’ll Need Raspberry Pi Pico W ($6–$10): The Wi-Fi-enabled version of the Pico. (The regular Pico won’t work here—it n...