DIPduino

what

An Arduino clone kit you build from scratch. Simply assemble as directed by the instructions, connect to the Arduino IDE, and upload Arduino code. All components are easy to solder for beginners. Instructions include helpful comments on why each part is needed so the assembler really knows what they are building. Solder and soldering iron required. All components, a USB cable, and digital instructions are provided.

why

Why sell an Arduino copy? Why not buy an Arduino “Make Your Own” kit?

The DIPduino has large components, called through-hole components, that are easy to solder. This makes the DIPduino a good kit for beginners. All they need to do is find a video on how to solder and begin.

The Arduino “Make Your Own” kit is also easy to solder. However, the Arduino “Make Your Own” kit comes with extra parts for projects and that add’s to the cost of the kit. The DIPduino does not come with extra lights or motors or sensors. Furthermore, it uses cheap parts. The DIPduino was half the cost of the Arduino “Make Your Own” kit when designed. The DIPduino is basic and financially attainable for more people. And it still gives you that “I-made-it-from-scratch” experience that the Arduino “Make Your Own” kit boasts.

story

In 2023, a STEM education supplier from Zimbabwe, Nkosana, proposed an idea to me. He wanted to make a cheap, easy-to-solder electronics board that anyone could put together, solder, and program. He wanted his students to learn to solder and learn about electronics.

I took on the project and, with the help of Jens Geisler (designer of the Frienduino), an Arduino clone microcontroller for Nkosana’s students was developed. The DIPduino is the outcome of all our collective work. The project was successfully backed by 36 supporters on kickstarter — without their contribution, DIPduino would not be so successful. Thankful to God for the opportunity to develop an Arduino clone that students can really build their skills with.