RP2040 CNC Controller

RP2040 Board

Overview

This project is a fully custom PCB based on the RP2040 microcontroller, designed as an upgraded alternative to standard dev boards like the Raspberry Pi Pico.

The goal was to create a board that is:

• More powerful
• Easier to use during development
• Capable of handling real-world applications (data logging, robotics, etc.)

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Key Features

Storage

• 8MB Flash (upgraded from 2MB)

• MicroSD Card Slot

  • Supports data logging and large file storage
  • Can be used for applications like G-code handling

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Interface & Controls

• Boot Button – Easy entry into bootloader mode

• Reset Button – Quick system reset during development

• Status LED (Bi-color)

  • Indicates power / charging state

• Master Power Switch

  • Fully cuts power to the board

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Power System

• LiPo Battery Support

  • Onboard charging circuit

• ~600mA Current Capacity

  • Supports more demanding peripherals

• 3.3V Enable Control (3V3_EN)

  • Allows software-controlled power management

• Optimized Power Traces

  • Wider 3.3V and GND lines for:

    • Reduced resistance
    • Lower heat
    • Improved stability

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Design Decisions

• Switched to a higher current voltage regulator for better performance

• Removed unnecessary components after redesign

• Standardized passive components to 0603:

  • Easier assembly
  • Cheaper sourcing
  • Better repairability

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PCB Design

• 4-Layer PCB

  • Dedicated ground plane for cleaner routing
  • Improved signal integrity and stability

• Double-sided component placement

  • Maximizes space efficiency

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Images

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Tools Used

• PCB Design: KiCad (or replace with your tool)
• Microcontroller: RP2040

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Status

• Schematic Complete
• PCB Layout Complete
• Manufacturing / Testing (Next Step)

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Goals

• Create a more capable RP2040 board than standard dev boards
• Support battery-powered applications
• Enable expandability through external storage

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Acknowledgments

• Inspired by the Raspberry Pi Pico
• Built as part of Hack Club Stasis

BOM

Capacitors

• 0.1uF capacitors 402 – 10
• 1uF capacitors 402 – 2
• 10uF capacitors 805 – 5
• 22pF capacitors 402 – 2
• 0.5uF capacitor 402 – 1
• 100nF capacitor 402 – 1

Resistors

• 5.1k resistors 603 – 2
• 27.4 resistors 603 – 2
• 100k resistors 603 – 2
• 1k resistors 603 – 3
• 10k resistors 603 – 2
• 47k resistors 603 – 3
• 200k resistor 603 – 1
• 2k resistor 603 – 1

Total Price of Passive Components ~ $1.90 (Depends on who you buy it from)

Diodes & Clock ~ $1.16

• SS14 diodes – 3 ~ $0.50 each
• SB0603W diode – 1 ~ $0.40
• • 12MHz crystal – 1 ~ 0.70

Connectors / I/O ~ $4.75

• USB-C receptacle (HRO TYPE-C-31-M-12) – 1
• 1x20 pin headers (2.54mm) – 2
• 1x3 pin header (2.54mm) – 1
• 1x2 pin JST connector (PH series) – 1
• MicroSD card slot – 1

Switches ~ $1.20

• Push buttons (SPST) – 2
• Slider switch – 1

ICs / Chips

• RP2040 – 1 $0.92
• MCP73831-2-OT (battery charger) – 1 $0.76
• W25Q64JVZPIQ (flash memory) – 1 $1.44
• AP2112K-3.3 (voltage regulator) – 1 $0.57