Introduction to Computer Engineering with R-Pi Pico W
Executive Summary
This project course introduces students to hands-on Computer Engineering (CENG) projects through the Pico platform. Students learn fundamentals of embedded systems, sensors, and wireless communication while designing small-scale prototypes that integrate hardware and software. The course emphasizes practical experimentation, teamwork, and iterative design—preparing students for advanced VIP and capstone projects in automation, robotics, and intelligent sensing systems.
Logistics
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CRN
Semester ECE 196 ECE 296 Spring 2026 86916 86945 -
Personnel
Advisor Office Hours Yao Zheng
Email yao.zheng@hawaii.edu with ‘’[x96 R-Pi Pico W]’’ in the subject line.See here Galen Sasaki N/A -
Meeting:
Time Location R 12:00pm - 13:00pm HH389
Learning Objectives
- Enhance their Python programming skills through practical applications.
- Explore computer hardware concepts, including microcontrollers, with a focus on the Raspberry Pi Pico (RP2040).
- Understand the interaction between hardware and software.
- Design and implement engaging and practical engineering projects.
- Build technical expertise and confidence to:
- Learn new skills and technologies independently.
- Develop personal projects.
- Seek internships, on-campus jobs, and professional opportunities.
- Participate in hackathons and engineering competitions.
- Cultivate creativity and innovation in engineering design.
Course Structure
- Labs: Nine hands-on laboratories.
- Homework: Assignments for the labs.
- Final Project: Students will design, develop, and demonstrate a personal project applying the concepts learned throughout the course.
Lab Schedule
| Lab | Time Range | Focus and Core Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Lab 1: Embedded Computing Foundations | Week 1 | Raspberry Pi Pico W architecture and I/O Toolchain setup and debugging First embedded program |
| Lab 2: Circuits and Prototyping Basics | Week 2 | Breadboard prototyping Passive components (resistors, LEDs) Power and grounding basics |
| Lab 3: Digital I/O and Sensor Interfaces | Week 3 | Digital inputs and outputs Button debouncing and state machines Temperature sensor interfacing |
| Lab 4: Human–Device Interfaces | Week 4 → Week 5 (first half) | I²C/SPI communication OLED display pipelines Joystick input and interactive application |
| Lab 5: Networked Embedded Systems | Week 5 (second half) → Week 6 | Embedded web servers Socket-based client–server communication Remote control of LEDs and displays |
| Lab 6: Internet Services and Performance | Week 7 → Week 8 (first half) | REST APIs and cloud data ingestion Latency and throughput considerations Sensorless “weather station” |
| Lab 7: Concurrent and Multicore Systems | Week 8 (second half) → Week 9 | Multicore programming on Pico W Concurrent sensing and display tasks Synchronization primitives |
| Lab 8: Collaborative Software Development | Week 10 | Git and GitHub workflows Branching, pull requests, and code review Team-based development |
| Lab 9: AI-Assisted Development | Week 11 | AI-assisted coding and refactoring Debugging with AI tools Validation and responsible use |
| Final Project: Integrated IoT System | Weeks 12–15 | End-to-end embedded and networked system |
Required Lab Components
Components will be provided.
Time Commitment: Average of 5-6 hours per week.
