This tiny Luckfox Pico Mini B absolutely slaps!

Platima Tinkers
16 Mar 202416:54

TLDRIn this video, the presenter reviews the LuckFox Pico Mini B, a small yet powerful device based on the RK13 processor. Out of the box, it features an SD card slot, Ethernet, USB-C, and a built-in storage option. The device is capable of running various operating systems and is designed for machine vision applications. The presenter also discusses the customizations they've made, including changing the default IP and setting up the device for network sharing. Additionally, they highlight the device's support for Wi-Fi, USB device scripting, and its compatibility with various LuckFox accessories. The video also touches on the presenter's experience with PCBWay, a service for PCB assembly and components, which they highly recommend for its quality and service.

Takeaways

  • 🌟 The LuckFox Pico Mini B is a compact and powerful device with a lot of potential applications.
  • 🔧 PCBWay is sponsoring the channel and offering a referral link for a 5% commission and $5 off the first order.
  • 🏭 PCBWay provides straightforward PCB assembly with fast turnaround times and competitive pricing.
  • 🔩 The RK13-based board features an SD card slot, Ethernet, GPIOs, USB-C, and built-in storage.
  • 💡 The device has a Cortex-A7 processor at 1.2 GHz, 64 MB RAM, and supports Wi-Fi addition through modules like the W600.
  • 📸 The camera port supports an out-of-the-box 3-megapixel camera, which can be used for machine vision applications.
  • 🔄 The device comes with a variety of examples and supports both Buildroot and BusyBox, with Ubuntu also being an option.
  • 🔧 The default IP and credentials (root and LuckFox) make initial setup and connection easy.
  • 📺 The device can stream video over a network, as demonstrated by the use of VLC to display the camera feed.
  • 🛠️ The device's documentation includes extensive information on customization and integration with neural models.
  • 💻 The device supports ADB and Samba for easy file transfer and access to the root file system over the network.

Q & A

  • What is the LuckFox Pico Mini B and why is it considered a powerhouse device?

    -The LuckFox Pico Mini B is a small but powerful device based on the RK13 processor. It is considered a powerhouse due to its 1.2 GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A7 CPU, 64MB RAM, built-in storage, Ethernet support, and multiple interfaces including USB-C, making it capable of handling a variety of tasks and applications.

  • What are some of the customizations mentioned for the LuckFox Pico Mini B?

    -The video mentions customizing the default IP address for easier connection sharing with Windows, setting up default gateway, and potentially adding thermal dissipation to handle the device's heat output. Additionally, there's mention of customizing the device's image with a combination of BusyBox and Buildroot.

  • How does the LuckFox Pico Mini B compare to other similar devices like the Raspberry Pi?

    -The LuckFox Pico Mini B is smaller and more powerful than many similar devices. For instance, it is compared to the Raspberry Pi 4 in terms of processing power, with the Pico Mini B having a 1.2 GHz ARM A7 processor and 64MB RAM, similar to the Pi Pico, but in a smaller form factor. It also has built-in storage and Ethernet, which are significant advantages.

  • What kind of accessories or add-ons can be used with the LuckFox Pico Mini B?

    -The LuckFox Pico Mini B can be used with various accessories such as a 3-megapixel camera supported out of the box, an SD card for storage, and a high-quality 7-inch touch display. There are also mentions of Ethernet, Wi-Fi modules (like the W600), and compute modules for even more powerful applications.

  • How can the LuckFox Pico Mini B be used for machine vision applications?

    -The LuckFox Pico Mini B can be used for machine vision applications due to its powerful processor and support for cameras. It comes with pre-integrated neural models that can recognize objects like people, and its high processing power allows for potential customization and use of more complex models.

  • What are the storage options for the LuckFox Pico Mini B?

    -The LuckFox Pico Mini B has built-in SPI Flash for storage. Users can also add an SD card for additional storage, which is auto-mounted and can be used for swapping between computers.

  • What is the significance of the built-in Ethernet on the LuckFox Pico Mini B?

    -The built-in Ethernet on the LuckFox Pico Mini B is significant as it allows for a stable and fast wired network connection. This can be particularly useful for applications that require high-speed data transfer or a reliable network connection, such as streaming or server applications.

  • How does the LuckFox Pico Mini B handle heat dissipation?

    -The LuckFox Pico Mini B gets warm during operation, and the video suggests that it would benefit from some form of thermal dissipation, such as a heat sink or fan. However, no specific solutions are implemented in the video, and it is mentioned as an area for potential future customization.

  • What are the available firmware options for the LuckFox Pico Mini B?

    -The LuckFox Pico Mini B offers several firmware options including Buildroot, BusyBox, and Ubuntu. The video creator has chosen to customize an image based on the BusyBox/Buildroot combination to keep the device lightweight for machine vision applications.

  • How does the LuckFox Pico Mini B support development and debugging?

    -The LuckFox Pico Mini B supports development and debugging through features like ADB (Android Debug Bridge) and Samba file sharing, which allow for easy file transfer and access to the device's file system. It also has SSH support for remote command-line access.

  • What is the price and availability of the LuckFox Pico Mini B and its accessories in Australia?

    -The LuckFox Pico Mini B is available for AUD 17.45 in Australia, with free shipping for orders over AUD 25. Accessories such as a 7-inch touch display and CM4 to Pi4 adapters are also available, with the latter allowing for the creation of a Raspberry Pi 4-like setup with LuckFox hardware.

Outlines

00:00

📱 Introduction to LuckFox Pico Mini B

The video begins with an introduction to the LuckFox Pico Mini B, a small yet powerful device. The speaker has previously reviewed the LuckFox Pico but emphasizes that the Mini B is worth a look. The speaker plans to discuss customizations, out-of-the-box capabilities, and comparisons with other devices to help viewers decide if the Pico Mini B is a worthwhile purchase. The speaker also mentions their ongoing sponsorship with PCB way and encourages viewers to check out their services and offers.

05:02

🛠️ Customization and Out-of-the-Box Features

The speaker dives into the customizations they've made for the LuckFox Pico Mini B, including changing the default IP address for easier connection sharing with Windows. They've also set up the device with default credentials for easy access. The speaker highlights the device's out-of-the-box functionality, such as its ability to recognize motion and people with the included camera. They also discuss the device's specifications, including its ARM iA7 1.2 GHz processor, 64 MB RAM, and built-in storage. The speaker mentions their intention to use the device for various projects and shares their GitHub repository for those interested in their customizations.

10:04

🔧 Exploring LuckFox's Range of Products

The speaker expands on the range of LuckFox products, including the Pico, Pico Plus, and Pico Max, each with varying features such as built-in Ethernet and storage. They also discuss the high-end core modules and their capabilities. The speaker mentions the availability of accessories like the 7-inch touch display and the cm4 to pi4 adapters, which allow for the creation of a compact but powerful computer. They express their excitement about the potential uses for these devices, including an AI animal trap project they're working on.

15:04

📦 LuckFox Product Availability and Closing Remarks

The speaker informs viewers about the availability of LuckFox products through their website, offering free shipping within Australia for orders over $25. They also mention the inclusion of version 1.1 rulers with every order. The speaker shares their enthusiasm for the technology and their role as an Australian distributor for LuckFox. They invite viewers to ask questions and engage with them for a deeper discussion on the topic. The speaker concludes by expressing their enjoyment of the end of summer in Australia and looks forward to future interactions with the viewers.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡LuckFox Pico Mini B

The LuckFox Pico Mini B is a small but powerful computing device that the video focuses on. It is an RK13 based board, similar to the Raspberry Pi Pico, but with its own unique features and capabilities. In the video, the presenter discusses the device's out-of-the-box functionality, its potential for customization, and compares it to other similar devices on the market. The LuckFox Pico Mini B is highlighted for its impressive processing power, especially considering its small size and price point.

💡Customization

Customization in the context of the video refers to the process of modifying the device's default settings and software to better suit the user's specific needs or preferences. The presenter discusses their own customizations, such as changing the default IP address and setting up the device for their intended use cases. This process often involves flashing new firmware or operating systems onto the device, and can significantly enhance its functionality.

💡PCB Way

PCB Way is a company that sponsors the video channel and provides PCB (Printed Circuit Board) assembly services. The presenter mentions their positive experiences with PCB Way's services, highlighting the straightforward assembly process, fast turnaround time, and competitive pricing. The company is also noted for offering a referral commission and discounts for first-time orders, which encourages viewer engagement and supports the channel's content creation.

💡RK13

The RK13 is the processor used in the LuckFox Pico Mini B board. It is a 1.2 GHz dual-core ARM Cortex-A7 processor that provides the computing power for the device. The RK13 is known for its energy efficiency and ability to handle tasks that would typically require more powerful and larger computing systems.

💡Ethernet

Ethernet is a networking technology mentioned in the video that allows the LuckFox Pico Mini B to connect to the internet or a local network via a wired connection. It is a standard for wired LAN (Local Area Network) technology and is appreciated for its reliability and typically faster data transfer speeds compared to Wi-Fi. The inclusion of an Ethernet port on the device is highlighted as a significant feature.

💡USB-C

USB-C is a type of USB connector that is used for data transfer, charging, and video output. It is a newer standard that is becoming increasingly common due to its reversible design and faster transfer rates. In the context of the LuckFox Pico Mini B, USB-C is used for power supply and data communication, making it a versatile and convenient port for users.

💡Machine Vision

Machine vision refers to the ability of a machine, such as the LuckFox Pico Mini B, to process and analyze visual information captured by cameras or other imaging sensors. This technology is used for a variety of applications, including object recognition, facial detection, and automated inspection. The video suggests that the device's processing power and built-in camera support make it suitable for machine vision applications.

💡Linux Kernel

The Linux Kernel is the core component of the Linux operating system, which is used by many single-board computers, including the LuckFox Pico Mini B. It is responsible for managing system resources, providing the interface between hardware and software, and facilitating the execution of applications. The video implies that the device's support for the Linux Kernel allows for a wide range of software compatibility and potential customizations.

💡BusyBox/Buildroot

BusyBox and Buildroot are software packages that provide essential tools and libraries for embedded Linux systems. BusyBox includes a collection of Unix utilities in a single executable, while Buildroot is a tool that simplifies the process of creating a complete Linux system for embedded devices. The video mentions that the presenter is customizing their image with a combination of BusyBox and Buildroot, which suggests a focus on creating a lean and efficient system tailored to the specific needs of the device.

💡Neural Model

A neural model, in the context of the video, refers to a type of artificial intelligence model that is designed to mimic the functioning of the human brain. These models are used for tasks such as image recognition, object detection, and other forms of machine learning. The LuckFox Pico Mini B is shown to have support for neural models out of the box, which enables it to perform tasks like recognizing people in real-time.

💡SMB

SMB (Server Message Block) is a network file sharing protocol that allows applications to read and write to files and to request services from server programs in a computer network. In the video, the presenter mentions that the device has SMB built in, which means it can easily share files over a network, similar to how a network drive would function on a computer.

💡Compute Module

A compute module is a type of hardware component that provides the main processing capabilities for a computing system. In the context of the video, the presenter mentions a range of LuckFox compute modules with varying amounts of RAM and storage, including models with integrated Wi-Fi and high-performance processors. These modules are designed to be highly versatile and powerful, offering more advanced capabilities than the single-board computers discussed earlier.

Highlights

Review of the LuckFox Pico Mini B, a powerful and compact device.

The device comes with customizations out of the box and is compared to other similar devices.

Sponsorship mention of PCBWay, offering a link for viewers to check out their services.

PCBWay's PCB assembly service is praised for its quality and turnaround time.

The RK13 based board is similar to the Raspberry Pi Pico but with significant differences.

The device features an SD card slot, Ethernet, USB-C, and built-in storage.

The device's ARM iA7 1.2 GHz processor can potentially be overclocked to 1.5 GHz.

The device comes with 64 MB of RAM and supports Ethernet, which is a notable feature.

The device's size is compared to a stamp, emphasizing its compactness and power.

The device can be used with a 3-megapixel camera supported out of the box.

The device's default IP address can be changed for easier network configuration.

The device is capable of running a basic AI model for object recognition right out of the box.

The device's documentation includes extensive information on customization and usage.

The device's potential applications include machine vision and neural model integration.

The device's ADB and Samba features are built-in, allowing for easy file transfer and device management.

The LuckFox Pico Mini B and its range of accessories are available for purchase from the reviewer's website.

The reviewer plans to continue exploring the capabilities of the LuckFox Pico Mini B and its potential applications.