BANDIT PC32 is a Raspberry Pi RP2350-powered keyboard computer that runs a graphically-oriented version of the ColorForth programming environment.
The BANDIT PC32 is primarily aimed at on-the-go use for programming video games. The custom, 32-key split keyboard takes up most of the build, with a 3.2-inch 320 x 240 capacitive display in the center. It also features an HDMI port for connecting a larger external display. The 48-pin GPIO is divided into two female headers and can be used to interface with other devices directly.
This is the second version of the Bandit standalone computer, building on an early prototype based on the RP2040 microcontroller. We have seen several interesting RP2350-based products like the Inky Frame 7.3”, 4D Systems display modules, and Jumperless V5 programmable breadboard. However, this is the first RP2350 standalone computer we have come across. It shares some similarities with the ESP32 Rainbow.
BANDIT PC32 ColorForth specifications:
- MCU – Raspberry Pi RP2350 dual-core Arm Cortex-M33 microcontroller with 512KB SRAM
- Memory and Storage
- 8MB PSRAM (battery-backed)
- 4MB QSPI flash memory for alternative storage
- MicroSD card slot
- Graphics – Supports 3000 sprites (8 pixels wide and 8 pixels tall) @ 60fps (single-core performance)
- Display
- 3.2-inch 320 x 240 IPS panel with capacitive touch (SPI with internal framebuffer)
- HDMI output up to 320 x 240 or 640 x 480 resolution in 4/8/16-bit mode
- Audio – 6-channel FM synth, 2+ channel PCM streamed from SRAM or PSRAM output in 16bit I2S
- Keyboard – 32-key, Kailh Brown mechanical switches capable of full chording
- Connectivity
- ESP8266 Wi-Fi module with host/client functionality
- UART Interface
- GPIO – 48-pin IO divided into 2 12×2 ports (female)
- Battery – 1000mAh (3 hours at 250MHz, 4+ hours at a lower clock rate)
- Dimensions – 97 x 32 x 22mm
The BANDIT PC32 RP2350-based computer runs a custom build of ColorForth, a self-contained, bare-metal programming environment with a bootloader core, source code editor, THUMB assembler, palette and graphics editor, music tracker, and bundled documentation.
The BANDIT PC32 is currently available for pre-order via the DSCF website for $169.99 in four color options. Shipping is slated for Q2 2025.
Via Hackster.io
Tomisin is a writer specializing in hardware product reviews, comparisons, and explainers. He is very passionate about small form factor and single-board computers.
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