The Raspberry Pi Pico is an amazingly versatile single-board computer (SBC). Despite its small size, it is still packed with features that make it ideal for all sorts of tech projects.

We've previously seen how a Pico can be used to create a simple handheld retro game, set up a ’90s cable TV experience, or handle your Spotify feed. Here are a few more projects that you may wish to engage with if you are feeling like doing some tinkering.

1. Pico KeyPad

If you need a small device to handle streaming controls or macros in online games, you could go to the expense of buying a Stream Deck or an extra macro keypad. Or, you can follow along with this project and just build your own.

This project was created by NextPC, who used a Pico along with a small Arduino, a 3D printed frame and some Gateron switches to create a nine-key pad that can be programmed for any shortcut. This keypad can be used for programming, video and audio editing, streaming, or gaming.

Further information on this project can be found on Hackster.

2. Small camera-equipped robot

Admittedly, this one is a bit more expensive, but robots are cool, at least according to pretty much every tech enthusiast. If you like robots (and who doesn't?), then this project lets you build your own tiny robot that can be controlled via Wi-Fi and is equipped with a small pan & tilt camera.

The robot may look a bit ungainly with a prototyping board sitting above the four chunky wheels as wires snake in every direction. However, this clever device can be controlled via Wi-Fi, so the user doesn't even need to see the robot in order to determine which direction it is going.

This project needs a few things besides a Pico, including an Arduino, microcontrollers, a geared DC motor, and a camera module. However, with some patience and a small hit to your wallet, you could have your own little robot rover to drive around. You can find more info on its Hackster page.

3. Parts-Bin oscilloscope

Most of us don't need to use an oscilloscope in our day-to-day lives. For those involved in hardware maintenance and repair, however, it is a vital tool. It is also a very expensive and often bulky tool. So, an inexpensive alternative that uses parts you might just have lying around is enticing.

To substitute for the oscilloscope probes, the creator known as ‘Ignoramus Pettigrew' took apart some A/V equipment to obtain some RCA connector ports, then used some basic RCA cables as the probes. A tablet screen running some custom Android software provides the display.

Obviously, this is not as good as a professionally made oscilloscope, but it could be useful in a pinch. You can find more information on the Hackster page.

4. SPI display array board

The original aim of this project was to make a customisable clock, using a cheap IPS display and powered by a Pico board. However, what Josue Alejandro has created has tremendous potential in many other ways.

This device can indeed function as a highly customisable bedside clock, but the IPS display could also be turned to any number of other functions. This could include displaying your YouTube subscriber numbers or showing your business name and contact info during a convention or similar event.

If you are inspired by this concept, further information can be found on Hackster.

5. Intruder detection using thermal vision

If you are worried about your home being broken into, you could shell out for an expensive security system, or you could deploy a small Raspberry Pi-powered device. All right, it probably won't be a suitable replacement for an entire security system, but the concept is neat.

This project uses a Pimoroni Thermal camera alongside a Pico and a few other small electronic components to detect a person, then lights up an LED when an intruder is found. Thanks to the thermal camera, this is possible even in total darkness.

Though this project is still in the ‘proof of concept' phase, it has some interesting implications that could potentially lead it to become a commercial product at some point. Further information is on the Hackster page.

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