Olimex RVPC for 1 euro: what a miniature single-board computer based on RISC-V can do

11:20
08.10.2024
BiktorSergeev
78

Hello, tekkix! This is Viktor Sergeev from MTS Digital. Recently, Olimex introduced a single-board computer - RVPC. The device costs only 1 euro. The novelty is positioned as a tool for learning and experiments in the world of computer technology, no one expects performance records from it. Details about RVPC are under the cut.

What is RVPC

A miniature single-board computer Olimex RVPC based on RISC-V, costing 1 euro, with connected peripheral devices.

The main goal is to provide developers and DIY enthusiasts with an affordable and convenient way to study the RISC-V architecture. The device supports working with a PS/2 keyboard and outputs an image via a VGA interface, making it suitable for educational and experimental purposes. The price is especially pleasing — 1 euro. Awesome, as Cartman from South Park would say.

The device is sold as a DIY kit. This means you can not only study the features of RISC-V devices but also learn soldering and basic electronics. An ideal option for enthusiasts of all ages.

The kit includes all necessary modules and components. To work, the device can be connected to a VGA monitor and a PS/2 keyboard. Despite its simplicity, the device allows you to study low-level programming and even run small programs (more on them below). For those who are just starting to get acquainted with the world of DIY and electronics, such a project can be an excellent start.

Technical Specifications

A compact single-board computer Olimex RVPC with a RISC-V processor, demonstrating the capabilities of connecting to a network and external devices.

The basis of Olimex RVPC is a CH32V003 processor running at a clock frequency of 48 MHz. Here are the technical specifications of RVPC:

Processor: 32-bit RISC-V chip CH32V003 from WCH with a frequency of up to 48 MHz.
RAM: 2 KB SRAM.
Memory: 16 KB Flash.
Power supply: 5 V through the power connector.
Interfaces: PS/2 for connecting a keyboard and VGA for video output.
Additional components: buzzer for sound effects, power LED indicator.
Dimensions: 50 × 30 mm.
OSHWA Certification: BG000142.

There is also a regular power connector (required voltage – 5 V) and a 2-pin connector for flashing the microcontroller. By the way, electronics enthusiasts from CNX Software recommend using the PlatformIO IDE software bundle and the ESP32-S2-DevKit-LiPo-USB board for this purpose. If anyone has already encountered this, please advise the optimal option in the comments.

Overall, for its price, this is a very functional device, as users can develop and run simple programs and study hardware interaction at a basic level. The buzzer allows adding basic sound signals and effects.

Why RISC-V architecture

I have already written briefly about this, but here is a detailed explanation of the key advantages of the technology:

Openness and Accessibility. RISC-V is an open Instruction Set Architecture (ISA). Anyone can use and modify it without licensing fees. This means that the costs for vendors of devices based on the architecture are reduced.
Modularity and Extensibility. The architecture is designed as a base with the ability to add or exclude optional extensions. This allows developers to customize systems for specific needs, customizing chips.
Low Power Consumption. RISC-V is designed to execute simple commands with minimal delays. This makes the architecture suitable for systems with limited power consumption, such as IoT and mobile devices.
Cross-Platform. RISC-V can be applied in different types of devices, from microcontrollers to high-performance computing systems. This makes it a versatile architecture.
Strong Community and Ecosystem. The RISC-V community and ecosystem are growing, including support from leading technology companies. This ensures the rapid development of development tools and applications.

Additional Features

Olimex RVPC for 1 euro: a miniature computer based on RISC-V, suitable for various projects and experiments.

One of the key aspects of RVPC is the software available for it. The package includes interesting demo applications. First of all, this is Wozmon, simple software for learning low-level programming, as well as games like Tetris and Towers of Hanoi. They are available immediately after assembling the device and completing the "basic course" from the developers on assembly programming (Olimex). Here is a link to the gameplay demonstration, so to speak. And here are the links to the sources: RVPC Wozmon, Towers of Hanoi, TETRIS.

The device's capabilities are expanded through various developer platforms like PlatformIO. And the support of open source code (kudos to the project authors) allows specialists to modify and improve programs for their needs. This makes RVPC a flexible tool for those who want to delve into the study of microcontrollers and RISC-V architecture.

Compared to other single-board computers, the most affordable among such devices in the Raspberry Pi lineup, the 2021 model Pico, costs 4 $, or about $3.96. And the Pico 2, which appeared in 2024, is already priced at 5 $ – $4.96.

The first batches of RVPC are expected to go on sale by November 2024. The release will be timed to the open festival OpenFest, which is held annually in Bulgaria (Olimex is a Bulgarian company) and gathers many enthusiasts and specialists in open technologies.