TINYCORDER_V3

TINYCORDER_V3 is a small, multi-purpose device with sensors

Tinycorder_V3 is a small, multi-purpose device designed to pay homage to the iconic tricorder from the science fiction series Star Trek. It features several sensors and a high-resolution, low-power E-ink display, allowing it to function as an electronic badge, among many other uses. It is small, lightweight, and highly energy-efficient. It represents an evolution of previous versions (V2 and Retrocorder).

Specifically, I had been planning to develop this version for some time but accelerated the process in the summer of 2026 to participate in the Interactive Signal Contest hosted by electronics manufacturer Seeed Studio.

Key features

1. Two-piece PLA chassis assembled with four M3x10 screws; includes a power switch and a component to improve the ergonomics of the rotary encoder.
2. Includes a loop for wearing around the neck or carrying by hand.
3. Seeed Studio XIAO ESP32C6 MCU.
4. 70mAh rechargeable coin-cell battery.
5. Power switch and rotary encoder for the user interface.
6. 4.3-inch, 400x300px E-ink display by WeAct (ultra-low power consumption).
7. SCD40 sensor for air quality and CO2 monitoring.

Some functions already operational, other under development.

It currently features settings and "About" menus, as well as custom menus for participating in the contest. The theme focuses on supporting the hospitality and restaurant industry, so it is implemented as a tool for taking food orders.

More sensors will be added soon, and the menus will be restructured to include more content.

If you like the video, you'll help me become a finalist in the contest. Give it a try!

Solder the Perfboard and Display With components. See the fritzing diagram for details. Perfboard has 80x20mm.

Use the bottom case. Put the eink display at right and perfboard at left. All must fit.

Cover with top case and join top&bottom with nuts&bolts. Use M3x10. Insert knob in the rotary encoder. Only push to fit.