Embedded instrumentation & electrical measurements
Pico 2 W EE Lab Tool
How can a compact bench tool measure real circuits and make the limits of each reading visible?
Hardware prototype · 2026
Context
A hands-on electrical engineering tool that connects circuit theory, sensor calibration, firmware, and measurement integrity.
Design problem
How can a compact bench tool measure real circuits and make the limits of each reading visible?
Approach
Use MicroPython to coordinate shared I2C sensing, ADC capture, transistor-controlled RC experiments, settled diode measurements, and shared instrument state for the OLED and Wi-Fi interface.
Validation
The integrated prototype was verified on hardware. Documented RC time constants are 1.076–1.079 s, with calibrated voltage and independently checked shunt current.
Result
The documented prototype combines Power/Energy, RC Analyzer, Diode Analyzer, internal MCU Temperature, and Guided Source Test modes. Recorded examples include a 1.404 W load and RC capacitance estimates of 1076–1079 µF. These are documented example measurements, not new tests performed for this website.
Limitations
The latest Source Test guard and replacement OLED driver still need device rechecks. Fault monitoring reports conditions; it does not disconnect power.
What I would improve next
Recheck the Source Test guard and replacement display driver on the hardware, then investigate automated electronic-load stepping.
Repository & documentation
Documentation checked Sep 3, 2026. The summaries describe the repository’s validation approach; they do not claim new hardware or deployment results.