The Precision Clock Mk IV is a highly accurate, GPS-disciplined clock built by the author. It uses a combination of a Rubidium oscillator for short-term stability and a GPS receiver for long-term accuracy, achieving sub-microsecond precision. The clock features a custom-designed circuit board and firmware, and includes several output options, including a 1PPS (pulse-per-second) signal, a configurable frequency output, and a serial interface for time and status information. The project documentation thoroughly details the design, build process, and testing results.
AtomVM is a compact Erlang virtual machine designed specifically for resource-constrained IoT devices. It supports a subset of the Erlang language and its bytecode, enabling developers to write robust, concurrent applications for microcontrollers. AtomVM includes a garbage collector, scheduler, and support for essential Erlang features like processes, message passing, and binary pattern matching. It also offers interoperability with native code and peripherals through ports, allowing developers to integrate with device-specific hardware. The project aims to bring the reliability and concurrency model of Erlang to the embedded world.
Hacker News users generally expressed enthusiasm for AtomVM, praising its efficiency and potential for IoT devices. Several commenters discussed its suitability for various applications, including embedded systems and robotics, highlighting its small footprint and low resource usage. Some questioned its performance compared to native code or other VMs, while others pointed out the advantages of using a mature language like Erlang for embedded development. The discussion also touched on topics such as garbage collection, real-time capabilities, and the challenges of debugging in an embedded environment. A few users shared their personal experiences with AtomVM, further reinforcing its practicality for resource-constrained devices. There's also a significant thread about licensing (Apache 2.0 vs. GPL) and a discussion about its suitability for hard real-time applications.
IcePi Zero is an open-source project aiming to create an FPGA-based equivalent of the Raspberry Pi Zero. Using a Lattice iCE40UP5k FPGA, it replicates the Pi Zero's form factor and many of its features, including GPIO, SPI, I2C, and a micro SD card slot. The project intends to be a low-cost, flexible alternative to the Pi Zero, allowing for hardware customization and experimentation. It currently supports running a RISC-V softcore processor and aims to achieve software compatibility with some Raspberry Pi distributions in the future.
Hacker News users discussed the IcePi Zero project with interest, focusing on its potential and limitations. Several commenters questioned the "Raspberry Pi equivalent" claim, pointing out the significantly higher cost of FPGAs compared to the Pi's processor. The lack of readily available peripherals and the steeper learning curve associated with FPGA development were also mentioned as drawbacks. However, some users highlighted the benefits of FPGA flexibility for specific applications, like hardware acceleration and real-time processing, suggesting niche use cases where the IcePi Zero could be advantageous despite the cost. Others expressed excitement about the project, seeing it as an intriguing educational tool or a platform for exploring FPGA capabilities. The closed-source nature of the FPGA bitstream was also a point of discussion, with some advocating for open-source alternatives.
Devices booting via UEFI often face a chicken-and-egg problem with Power over Ethernet (PoE+): they need power to negotiate the higher wattage provided by PoE+, but can't negotiate until they've booted. This post details a hardware and firmware solution involving a small, inexpensive microcontroller that acts as a PoE+ negotiator during the pre-boot environment. The microcontroller detects the presence of PoE, activates a relay to connect the main system to power, negotiates the full PoE+ power budget, and then signals the main system to boot. This approach bypasses the limitations of UEFI and ensures the system receives sufficient power from the start, enabling the use of power-hungry peripherals like NVMe drives during the boot process.
Hacker News users discussed the complexities and limitations of negotiating PoE+ power before the OS boots. Several commenters pointed out that while the article's UEFI solution is interesting, it's not a practical approach for most users. They highlighted the lack of standardization and support for pre-boot PoE negotiation in network hardware and UEFI implementations. Some suggested alternatives, including using a separate, always-on microcontroller to handle PoE negotiation and power management for the main system. The discussion also touched on the challenges of implementing a robust and reliable solution, especially considering the varying power requirements of different devices. Overall, the comments suggest that pre-boot PoE negotiation remains a niche area with limited practical application for now.
A specific camera module, when used with the Raspberry Pi 2, caused the Pi to reliably crash. This wasn't a software issue, but a hardware one. The camera's xenon flash generated a high-voltage transient on the 3.3V rail, exceeding the Pi's tolerance and causing a destructive latch-up condition. This latch-up drew excessive current, leading to overheating and potential permanent damage. The problem was specific to the Pi 2 due to its power circuitry and didn't affect other Pi models. The issue was ultimately solved by adding a capacitor to the camera module, filtering out the voltage spike and protecting the Pi.
HN commenters generally found the article interesting and well-written, praising the author's detective work in isolating the issue. Several pointed out similar experiences with electronics and xenon flashes, including one commenter who mentioned problems with industrial automation equipment. Some discussed the physics behind the phenomenon, suggesting ESD or induced currents as the culprit, and debated the role of grounding and shielding. A few questioned the specific failure mechanism of the Pi's regulator, proposing alternatives like transient voltage suppression. Others noted the increasing complexity of debugging modern electronics and the challenges of reproducing such intermittent issues. The overall sentiment was one of appreciation for the detailed analysis and shared learning experience the article provided.
In 1979, sixteen teams competed to design the best Ada compiler, judged on a combination of compiler efficiency, program efficiency, and self-documentation quality. The evaluated programs ranged from simple math problems to more complex tasks like a discrete event simulator and a text formatter. While no single compiler excelled in all areas, the NYU Ada/Ed compiler emerged as the overall winner due to its superior program execution speed, despite being slow to compile and generate larger executables. The competition highlighted the significant challenges in early Ada implementation, including the language's complexity and the limited hardware resources of the time. The diverse range of compilers and the variety of scoring metrics revealed trade-offs between compilation speed, execution speed, and code size, providing valuable insight into the practicalities of Ada development.
Hacker News users discuss the Ada competition, primarily focusing on its historical context. Several commenters highlight the political and military influences that shaped Ada's development, emphasizing the Department of Defense's desire for a standardized, reliable language for embedded systems. The perceived over-engineering and complexity of Ada are also mentioned, with some suggesting that these factors contributed to its limited adoption outside of its intended niche. The rigorous selection process for the "winning" language (eventually named Ada) is also a point of discussion, along with the eventual proliferation of C and C++, which largely supplanted Ada in many areas. The discussion touches upon the irony of Ada's intended role in simplifying software development for the military while simultaneously introducing its own complexities.
Red is a next-generation full-stack programming language aiming for both extreme simplicity and extreme power. It incorporates a reactive engine at its core, enabling responsive interfaces and dataflow programming. Featuring a human-friendly syntax, Red is designed for metaprogramming, code generation, and domain-specific language creation. It's cross-platform and offers a complete toolchain encompassing everything from low-level system programming to high-level scripting, with a small, optimized footprint suitable for embedded systems. Red's ambition is to bridge the gap between low-level languages like C and high-level languages like Rebol, from which it draws inspiration.
Hacker News commenters on the Red programming language announcement express cautious optimism mixed with skepticism. Several highlight Red's ambition to be both a system programming language and a high-level scripting language, questioning the feasibility of achieving both goals effectively. Performance concerns are raised, particularly regarding the current implementation and its reliance on Rebol. Some commenters find the "full-stack" nature intriguing, encompassing everything from low-level system access to GUI development, while others see it as overly broad and reminiscent of Rebol's shortcomings. The small team size and potential for vaporware are also noted. Despite reservations, there's interest in the project's potential, especially its cross-compilation capabilities and reactive programming features.
The author details their process of compiling OCaml code to run on a TI-84 Plus CE calculator. They leveraged the calculator's existing C toolchain and the OCaml compiler's ability to output C code. After overcoming challenges like limited RAM and the absence of a dynamic linker, they successfully ran a simple "Hello, world!" program. The key innovations included statically linking the OCaml runtime and using a custom, minimized runtime configuration to fit within the calculator's memory constraints. This allowed for direct execution of OCaml bytecode on the calculator, offering a novel approach to programming these devices.
Hacker News users generally expressed enthusiasm for the project of compiling OCaml to a TI-84 calculator. Several commenters praised the technical achievement, highlighting the challenges of working with the calculator's limited resources. Some discussed potential educational benefits, suggesting it could be a powerful tool for teaching functional programming. Others reminisced about their own calculator programming experiences and pondered the possibility of porting other languages. A few users inquired about practical aspects like performance and library support. There was also some discussion comparing the project to other calculator-based language implementations and exploring potential future enhancements.
Dalus, a YC W25 startup building high-speed, high-precision industrial robots, is seeking a Founding Software Engineer. This engineer will develop software for designing and simulating the robots' complex hardware systems. Responsibilities include creating tools for mechanism design, motion planning, and system analysis, as well as building internal software infrastructure. Ideal candidates have a strong background in robotics, mechanics, and software development, experience with C++ and Python, and a desire to work on challenging technical problems in a fast-paced startup environment.
The Hacker News comments discuss the Dalus job posting, focusing on the unusual combination of FPGA, hardware design, and web technologies. Several commenters express skepticism and confusion about the specific requirements, questioning the need for TypeScript and React experience for a role heavily focused on low-level FPGA and hardware interaction. Some speculate about the potential applications, suggesting possibilities like robotics or control systems, while others wonder if the web technologies are intended for a control/monitoring interface rather than core functionality. There's a general sense of intrigue about the project but also concern that the required skillset is too broad, potentially leading to a diluted focus and difficulty finding suitable candidates. The high salary is also noted, with speculation that it reflects the demanding nature of the role and the niche expertise required.
Choosing the right chip is crucial for building a smartwatch. This post explores key considerations like power consumption, processing power, integrated peripherals (like Bluetooth and GPS), and cost. It emphasizes the importance of balancing performance with battery life, highlighting low-power architectures like ARM Cortex-M series and dedicated real-time operating systems (RTOS). The post also discusses the complexities of integrating various sensors and communication protocols, and suggests considering pre-certified modules to simplify development. Ultimately, the ideal chip depends on the specific features and target price point of the smartwatch.
The Hacker News comments discuss the challenges of smartwatch development, particularly around battery life and performance trade-offs. Several commenters point out the difficulty in finding a suitable balance between power consumption and processing power for a wearable device. Some suggest that the author's choice of the RP2040 might be underpowered for a truly "smart" watch experience, while others appreciate the focus on lower power consumption for extended battery life. There's also discussion of alternative chips and development platforms like the nRF52 series and PineTime, as well as the complexities of software development and UI design for such a constrained environment. A few commenters express skepticism about building a smartwatch from scratch, citing the significant engineering hurdles involved, while others encourage the author's endeavor.
Spade is a hardware description language (HDL) focused on correctness and maintainability. It leverages Python's syntax and ecosystem to provide a familiar and productive development environment. Spade emphasizes formal verification through built-in model checking and simulation capabilities, aiming to catch bugs early in the design process. It supports both synchronous and asynchronous designs and compiles to synthesizable Verilog, allowing integration with existing hardware workflows. The project aims to simplify hardware design and verification, making it more accessible and less error-prone.
Hacker News users discussed Spade's claimed benefits, expressing skepticism about its performance compared to Verilog/SystemVerilog and its ability to attract a community. Some questioned the practical advantages of Python integration, citing existing Python-based HDL tools. Others pointed out the difficulty of breaking into the established HDL ecosystem, suggesting the language would need to offer significant improvements to gain traction. A few commenters expressed interest in learning more, particularly regarding formal verification capabilities and integration with existing tools. The overall sentiment leaned towards cautious curiosity, with several users highlighting the challenges Spade faces in becoming a viable alternative to existing HDLs.
Armbian has released significant updates focusing on improved NAS functionality, faster boot times, and optimized Rockchip support. Key improvements include OpenMediaVault (OMV) integration for easier NAS setup and management, streamlined boot processes using systemd-boot on more devices for quicker startup, and various performance and stability enhancements specifically for Rockchip-based boards. These updates enhance the user experience and broaden the appeal of Armbian for server and general-purpose applications on supported ARM devices.
HN users generally praise Armbian's progress, particularly its improved support for NAS use-cases through OpenMediaVault (OMV) integration. Some commenters highlight specific advantages like the lightweight nature of Armbian compared to other ARM OSes, and its suitability for older hardware. Others express interest in trying Armbian on devices like the RockPro64 or discuss the benefits of specific kernel versions and board compatibility. A few users also share their positive experiences with Armbian for server and homelab applications, emphasizing its stability and performance. One commenter mentions the utility of Armbian for deploying ad blockers on home networks.
This blog post details how to boot an RP2040-based Raspberry Pi Pico W (RP2350) directly from UART, bypassing the usual flash memory boot process. This is achieved by leveraging the ROM bootloader's capability to accept code over UART0. The post provides Python code to send a UF2 file containing a custom linker script and modified boot2 code directly to the Pico W via its UART interface. This custom boot2 then loads subsequent data from the UART, allowing the execution of code without relying on flashed firmware, useful for debugging and development purposes. The process involves setting specific GPIO pins for bootsel mode, utilizing the picotool utility, and establishing a 115200 baud UART connection.
Hacker News users discuss various aspects of booting the RP2350 from UART. Several commenters appreciate the detailed blog post, finding it helpful and well-written. Some discuss alternative approaches like using a Raspberry Pi Pico as a USB-to-serial adapter or leveraging the RP2040's ROM bootloader. A few highlight the challenges of working with UART, including baud rate detection and potential instability. Others delve into the technical details, mentioning the RP2040's USB boot mode and comparing it to other microcontrollers. The overall sentiment is positive, with many praising the author for sharing their knowledge and experience.
This blog post details the initial phase of a project to design an open-source, multi-gigabit Ethernet switch using readily available components. The author outlines their motivation, stemming from the limited availability and high cost of such switches, especially for homelab environments. They choose the Marvell Amethyst family of switch chips due to their performance, feature set, and relatively accessible documentation. This first stage focuses on bring-up and basic functionality, using a simple development board with an Amethyst chip and an FPGA for initial control and testing. The author describes their progress in setting up the hardware and software tools, establishing communication with the chip, and configuring basic register settings for PHY initialization and link establishment. Future work will involve implementing more advanced switching features and integrating a proper network stack.
Hacker News users generally expressed enthusiasm for the open-source Ethernet switch project, praising the author's ambition and thorough approach to the complex task. Several commenters with networking experience offered specific technical suggestions and insights, including recommendations for alternative chipsets, PHY considerations, and FPGA design choices. Some questioned the long-term viability of the project given the competitive landscape and the resources required for such an undertaking. Others discussed potential use cases, like homelabbing, educational purposes, and niche applications requiring specialized features. The feasibility of achieving wire-speed performance and the potential challenges of software development were also recurring themes. A few users pointed out similar projects, providing valuable context and potential avenues for collaboration.
Niklaus Wirth developed Oberon Pi, a single-board computer and operating system combination, as a modern embodiment of his minimalist computing philosophy. The system, built around a Broadcom BCM2835 SoC (the same as the original Raspberry Pi), features a compact, self-hosting Oberon compiler and operating system written entirely in Oberon. Wirth prioritized simplicity and efficiency, creating a system capable of booting and compiling its own OS and core tools in mere seconds, showcasing the power of a streamlined, tightly integrated software and hardware design. This project exemplifies Wirth's ongoing pursuit of elegant and efficient computing solutions.
HN commenters generally praise Wirth's work on Oberon, admiring its simplicity, elegance, and efficiency. Several discuss their experiences using Oberon or similar systems, highlighting its performance and small footprint. Some express a desire for a modern, actively maintained version of the OS and language, while others reminisce about the system's impact on their own programming practices. A few comments touch on the RISC-V architecture and its suitability for running Oberon. The tight integration of hardware and software in the Oberon project is also a recurring point of interest. Some express skepticism about its practicality in the modern computing landscape, while others see its minimalist approach as a valuable counterpoint to current trends.
Pascal for Small Machines explores the history and enduring appeal of Pascal, particularly its suitability for resource-constrained environments. The author highlights Niklaus Wirth's design philosophy of simplicity and efficiency, emphasizing how these principles made Pascal an ideal language for early microcomputers. The post discusses various Pascal implementations, from UCSD Pascal to modern variants, showcasing its continued relevance in embedded systems, retrocomputing, and educational settings. It also touches upon Pascal's influence on other languages and its role in shaping computer science education.
HN users generally praise the simplicity and elegance of Pascal, with several reminiscing about using Turbo Pascal. Some highlight its suitability for resource-constrained environments and embedded systems, comparing it favorably to C for such tasks. One commenter notes its use in the Apple Lisa and early Macs. Others discuss the benefits of strong typing and clear syntax for learning and maintainability. A few express interest in modern Pascal dialects like Free Pascal and Oxygene, while others debate the merits of static vs. dynamic typing. Some disagreement arises over whether Pascal's enforced structure is beneficial or restrictive for larger projects.
The blog post details the implementation of a real-time vectorscope on an RK3588 SoC for video processing. The author leverages the hardware capabilities of the RK3588's GPU to efficiently process video frames, convert them from YUV to RGB color space, and then plot the resulting color information on a vectorscope display. This allows for visualization of the color distribution within a video signal, aiding in tasks like color correction and ensuring broadcast compliance. The implementation utilizes OpenGL ES and involves custom shaders for color conversion and drawing the vectorscope visualization. The post highlights the performance benefits of using the GPU and provides snippets of the shader code used in the project.
The Hacker News comments discuss the practicality and efficiency of the author's approach to implementing a vectorscope on an RK3588 SoC. Some users question the choice of using NEON intrinsics for SIMD processing, suggesting that higher-level libraries or compiler auto-vectorization might offer better performance and easier maintenance. Others praise the author's deep dive into hardware specifics and optimization, viewing it as a valuable learning resource. A recurring theme is the trade-off between performance gains from low-level optimization and the added complexity and potential for errors. There's also interest in whether the implemented vectorscope accurately reflects broadcast standards and the potential applications for real-time video analysis.
Espressif's ESP32-C5, a RISC-V-based IoT chip designed for low-power Wi-Fi 6 applications, has entered mass production. This chip offers both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi 6 support, along with Bluetooth 5 (LE) for enhanced connectivity options. It features a rich set of peripherals, low power consumption, and is designed for cost-sensitive IoT devices, making it suitable for various applications like smart homes, wearables, and industrial automation. The ESP32-C5 aims to provide developers with a powerful and affordable solution for next-generation connected devices.
Hacker News commenters generally expressed enthusiasm for the ESP32-C5's mass production, particularly its RISC-V architecture and competitive price point. Several praised Espressif's consistent delivery of well-documented and affordable chips. Some discussion revolved around the C5's suitability as a WiFi-only replacement for the ESP32-C3 and ESP8266, with questions raised about Bluetooth support and actual availability. A few users pointed out the lack of an official datasheet at the time of the announcement, hampering a more in-depth analysis of its capabilities. Others anticipated its integration into various projects, including home automation and IoT devices. The relative merits of the C5 compared to the C3, particularly regarding power consumption and specific use cases, formed a core part of the conversation.
This blog post details how to implement a simplified printf function for bare-metal environments, specifically ARM Cortex-M microcontrollers, without relying on a full operating system. The author walks through creating a minimal version that supports basic format specifiers like %c, %s, %u, %x, and %d, bypassing the complexities of a standard C library. The implementation utilizes a UART for output and includes a custom integer to string conversion function. By directly manipulating registers and memory, the post demonstrates a lightweight printf suitable for resource-constrained embedded systems.
HN commenters largely praised the article for its clear explanation of implementing printf in a bare-metal environment. Several appreciated the author's focus on simplicity and avoiding unnecessary complexity. Some discussed the tradeoffs between code size and performance, with suggestions for further optimization. One commenter pointed out the potential issues with the implementation's handling of floating-point numbers, particularly in embedded systems where floating-point support might not be available. Others offered alternative approaches, including using smaller, more specialized printf implementations or relying on semihosting for debugging. The overall sentiment was positive, with many finding the article educational and well-written.
Akdeb open-sourced ElatoAI, their AI toy company project. It uses ESP32 microcontrollers to create small, interactive toys that leverage OpenAI's realtime API for natural language processing. The project includes schematics, code, and 3D-printable designs, enabling others to build their own AI-powered toys. The goal is to provide an accessible platform for experimentation and creativity in the realm of AI-driven interactive experiences, specifically targeting a younger audience with simple and engaging toy designs.
Hacker News users discussed the practicality and novelty of the Elato AI project. Several commenters questioned the value proposition of using OpenAI's API on a resource-constrained device like the ESP32, especially given latency and cost concerns. Others pointed out potential issues with relying on a cloud service for core functionality, making the device dependent on internet connectivity and potentially impacting privacy. Some praised the project for its educational value, seeing it as a good way to learn about embedded systems and AI integration. The open-sourcing of the project was also viewed positively, allowing others to tinker and potentially improve upon the design. A few users suggested alternative approaches like running smaller language models locally to overcome the limitations of the current cloud-dependent architecture.
This project details the design and construction of a small, wheeled-leg robot. The robot utilizes a combination of legs and wheels for locomotion, offering potential advantages in terms of adaptability and maneuverability. The design includes 3D-printed components for the legs and body, readily available micro servos for actuation, and an Arduino Nano for control. The GitHub repository provides STL files for 3D printing, code for controlling the robot's movements, and some assembly instructions, making it a relatively accessible project for robotics enthusiasts. The current design implements basic gaits but future development aims to improve stability and explore more complex movements.
Hacker News users discussed the practicality and potential applications of the micro robot, questioning its stability and speed compared to purely wheeled designs. Some commenters praised the clever integration of wheels and legs, highlighting its potential for navigating complex terrains that would challenge traditional robots. Others expressed skepticism about its real-world usefulness, suggesting the added complexity might not outweigh the benefits. The discussion also touched on the impressive nature of the project considering its relatively low cost and the builder's resourcefulness. Several commenters pointed out the clear educational value of such projects, even if the robot itself doesn't represent a groundbreaking advancement in robotics.
MeshCore is a new routing protocol designed for low-power, wireless mesh networks using packet radio. It combines proactive and reactive routing strategies in a hybrid approach for increased efficiency. Proactive routing builds a minimal spanning tree for reliable connectivity, while reactive routing dynamically discovers routes on demand, reducing overhead when network topology changes. This hybrid design aims to minimize power consumption and latency while maintaining robustness in challenging RF environments, particularly useful for applications like IoT sensor networks and remote monitoring. MeshCore is implemented in C and focuses on simplicity and portability.
Hacker News users discussed MeshCore's potential advantages, like its hybrid approach combining proactive and reactive routing and its lightweight nature. Some questioned the practicality of LoRa for mesh networking due to its limitations and suggested alternative protocols like Bluetooth mesh. Others expressed interest in the project's potential for emergency communication and off-grid applications. Several commenters inquired about specific technical details, like the handling of hidden node problems and scalability. A few users also compared MeshCore to other mesh networking projects and protocols, discussing the trade-offs between different approaches. Overall, the comments show a cautious optimism towards MeshCore, with interest in its potential but also a desire for more information and real-world testing.
The blog post explores optimizing font rendering on SSD1306 OLED displays, common in microcontrollers. It delves into the inner workings of these displays, specifically addressing the limitations of their framebuffer and command structure. The author analyzes various font rendering techniques, highlighting the trade-offs between memory usage, CPU cycles, and visual quality. Ultimately, the post advocates for generating font glyphs directly on the display using horizontal byte-aligned drawing commands, a method that minimizes RAM usage while still providing acceptable performance and rendering quality for embedded systems. This technique exploits the SSD1306's hardware acceleration for horizontal lines, making it more efficient than traditional pixel-by-pixel rendering or storing full font bitmaps.
HN users discuss various aspects of using SSD1306 displays. Several commenters appreciate the deep dive into font rendering and the clear explanations, particularly regarding gamma correction and its impact. Some discuss alternative rendering methods, like using pre-rendered glyphs or leveraging the microcontroller's capabilities for faster performance. Others offer practical advice, suggesting libraries like u8g2 and sharing tips for memory optimization. The challenges of limited RAM and slow I2C communication are also acknowledged, along with potential solutions like using SPI. A few users mention alternative display technologies like e-paper or Sharp Memory LCDs for different use cases.
The blog post details the author's experience using the -fsanitize=undefined compiler flag with Picolibc, a small C library. While initially encountering numerous undefined behavior issues, particularly related to signed integer overflow and misaligned memory access, the author systematically addressed them through careful code review and debugging. This process highlighted the value of undefined behavior sanitizers in catching subtle bugs that might otherwise go unnoticed, ultimately leading to a more robust and reliable Picolibc implementation. The author demonstrates how even seemingly simple C code can harbor hidden undefined behaviors, emphasizing the importance of rigorous testing and the utility of tools like -fsanitize=undefined in ensuring code correctness.
HN users discuss the blog post's exploration of undefined behavior sanitizers. Several commend the author's clear explanation of the intricacies of undefined behavior and the utility of sanitizers like UBSan. Some users share their own experiences and tips regarding sanitizers, including the importance of using them during development and the potential performance overhead they can introduce. One commenter highlights the surprising behavior of signed integer overflow and the challenges it presents for developers. Others point out the value of sanitizers, particularly in embedded and safety-critical systems. The small size and portability of Picolibc are also noted favorably in the context of using sanitizers. A few users express a general appreciation for the blog post's educational value and the author's engaging writing style.
Qualcomm has open-sourced ELD, a new linker designed specifically for embedded systems. ELD aims to be faster and more memory-efficient than traditional linkers like GNU ld, especially beneficial for resource-constrained devices. It achieves this through features like parallel processing, demand paging, and a simplified design focusing on common embedded use cases. ELD supports ELF and is designed for integration with existing embedded workflows, offering potential improvements in link times and memory usage during development.
Hacker News users generally expressed cautious optimism about ELD, Qualcomm's new embedded linker. Several commenters questioned its practical advantages over existing linkers like ld, particularly regarding its performance and debugging capabilities. Some wondered about its long-term support given Qualcomm's history with open-source projects. Others pointed out potential benefits like improved memory usage and build times, especially for complex embedded systems. The lack of clear benchmarks comparing ELD to established solutions was a recurring concern. A few users expressed interest in trying ELD for their projects, while others remained skeptical, preferring to wait for more evidence of its real-world effectiveness. The discussion also touched on the challenges of embedded development and the need for better tooling.
Dmitry Grinberg created a remarkably minimal Linux computer using just three 8-pin chips: an ATtiny85 microcontroller, a serial configuration PROM, and a voltage regulator. The ATtiny85 emulates a RISC-V CPU, running a custom Linux kernel compiled for this simulated architecture. While performance is limited due to the ATtiny85's resources, the system is capable of interactive use, including running a shell and simple programs, demonstrating the feasibility of a functional Linux system on extremely constrained hardware. The project highlights clever memory management and peripheral emulation techniques to overcome the limitations of the hardware.
Hacker News users discussed the practicality and limitations of the 8-pin Linux computer. Several commenters questioned the usefulness of such a minimal system, pointing out its lack of persistent storage and limited I/O capabilities. Others were impressed by the technical achievement, praising the author's ingenuity in fitting Linux onto such constrained hardware. The discussion also touched on the definition of "running Linux," with some arguing that a system without persistent storage doesn't truly run an operating system. Some commenters expressed interest in potential applications like embedded systems or educational tools. The lack of networking capabilities was also noted as a significant limitation. Overall, the reaction was a mix of admiration for the technical feat and skepticism about its practical value.
LVGL is a free and open-source graphics library providing everything you need to create embedded GUIs with easy-to-use graphical elements, beautiful visual effects, and a low memory footprint. It's designed to be platform-agnostic, supporting a wide range of input devices and hardware from microcontrollers to powerful embedded systems like the Raspberry Pi. Key features include scalable vector graphics, animations, anti-aliasing, Unicode support, and a flexible style system for customizing the look and feel of the interface. With its rich set of widgets, themes, and an active community, LVGL simplifies the development process of visually appealing and responsive embedded GUIs.
HN commenters generally praise LVGL's ease of use, beautiful output, and good documentation. Several note its suitability for microcontrollers, especially with limited resources. Some express concern about its memory footprint, even with optimizations, and question its performance compared to other GUI libraries. A few users share their positive experiences integrating LVGL into their projects, highlighting its straightforward integration and active community. Others discuss the licensing (MIT) and its suitability for commercial products. The lack of a GPU dependency is mentioned as both a positive and negative, offering flexibility but potentially impacting performance for complex graphics. Finally, some comments compare LVGL to other embedded GUI libraries, with varying opinions on its relative strengths and weaknesses.
Koto is a modern, general-purpose programming language designed for ease of use and performance. It features a dynamically typed system with optional type hints, garbage collection, and built-in support for concurrency through asynchronous functions and channels. Koto emphasizes functional programming paradigms but also allows for imperative and object-oriented styles. Its syntax is concise and readable, drawing inspiration from languages like Python and Lua. Koto aims to be embeddable, with a small runtime and the ability to compile to bytecode or native machine code. It is actively developed and open-source, promoting community involvement and contributions.
Hacker News users discussed Koto's design choices, praising its speed, built-in concurrency support based on fibers, and error handling through optional values. Some compared it favorably to Lua, highlighting Koto's more modern approach. The creator of Koto engaged with commenters, clarifying details about the language's garbage collection, string interning, and future development plans, including potential WebAssembly support. Concerns were raised about its small community size and the practicality of using a niche language, while others expressed excitement about its potential as a scripting language or for game development. The discussion also touched on Koto's syntax and its borrow checker, with commenters offering suggestions and feedback.
This project showcases a DIY physical Pomodoro timer built using an ESP32 microcontroller and an e-paper display. The device allows users to easily start, pause, and reset their focused work intervals and breaks. The e-paper screen clearly displays the remaining time and the current Pomodoro state (work or break). The code, available on GitHub, is designed to be customizable, allowing users to adjust the durations of work and break periods. The use of an e-paper screen makes it low-power and easily readable in various lighting conditions.
HN users generally praised the project's clean design and execution. Several commenters appreciated the minimalist aesthetic and focus on a single function, contrasting it favorably with more complex, app-based timers. Some suggested improvements like adding a physical button for starting/stopping or integrating features like task tracking. The choice of e-paper display was also well-received for its low power consumption and clear readability. A few users expressed interest in purchasing a pre-built version, while others were inspired to create their own versions based on the open-source design. Some discussion revolved around the value of physical versus digital timers, with proponents of physical timers citing the benefits of tactile feedback and reduced distractions.
MilliForth-6502 is a minimalist Forth implementation for the 6502 processor, designed to be incredibly small while remaining a practical programming language. It features a 1 KB dictionary, a 256-byte parameter stack, and implements core Forth words including arithmetic, logic, stack manipulation, and I/O. Despite its size, MilliForth allows for defining new words and includes a simple interactive interpreter. Its compactness makes it suitable for resource-constrained 6502 systems, and the project provides source code and documentation for building and using it.
Hacker News users discussed the practicality and minimalism of MilliForth, a Forth implementation for the 6502 processor. Some questioned its usefulness beyond educational purposes, citing limited memory and awkward programming style compared to assembly language. Others appreciated its cleverness and the challenge of creating such a compact system, viewing it as a testament to Forth's flexibility. Several comments highlighted the historical context of Forth on resource-constrained systems and drew parallels to other small language implementations. The maintainability of generated code and the debugging experience were also mentioned as potential drawbacks. A few commenters expressed interest in exploring MilliForth further and potentially using it for small embedded projects.
Summary of Comments ( 66 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=44144750
HN commenters were impressed with the clock's accuracy and the detailed documentation. Several discussed the intricacies of GPS discipline and the challenges of achieving such precise timekeeping. Some questioned the necessity of this level of precision for a clock, while others appreciated the pursuit of extreme accuracy as a technical challenge. The project's open-source nature and the author's willingness to share their knowledge were praised. A few users also shared their own experiences with similar projects and offered suggestions for improvements, like adding a battery backup. The aesthetics of the clock were also a topic of discussion, with some finding the minimalist design appealing.
The Hacker News post titled "Precision Clock Mk IV" linking to mitxela.com/projects/precision_clock_mk_iv has generated a moderate number of comments, primarily focused on the technical aspects of the clock's design and implementation.
Several commenters delve into the specifics of GPS discipline and its limitations. One commenter questions the necessity of an expensive Rubidium oscillator given the clock's reliance on GPS, sparking a discussion about the importance of holdover performance and maintaining accuracy when the GPS signal is lost. This thread explores various scenarios where GPS might be unavailable, like indoor use or intentional jamming, and how a Rubidium oscillator mitigates these issues. Another commenter highlights the intricacies of achieving nanosecond-level accuracy, pointing out the challenges introduced by cable length and signal propagation delays within the system itself.
The discussion also touches upon the choice of using a Raspberry Pi Pico and its suitability for this application. Some commenters suggest alternative microcontrollers with potentially better performance characteristics, while others defend the Pico's adequacy given the project's requirements. This leads to a brief comparison of different microcontroller platforms and their respective strengths and weaknesses.
Further comments explore the clock's display technology and potential improvements. One commenter suggests using e-paper for lower power consumption, while another raises the possibility of incorporating a Network Time Protocol (NTP) server functionality.
A few commenters express general admiration for the project's complexity and the author's dedication. They praise the detailed documentation and the open-source nature of the design.
While the overall number of comments isn't exceptionally high, the discussion provides valuable insights into the technical challenges and design choices involved in building a high-precision clock. The comments offer a range of perspectives, from questioning specific design decisions to suggesting alternative approaches and appreciating the overall accomplishment. The conversation remains focused on the technical merits of the project and avoids straying into unrelated topics.