The new boards will allow users to click or plug boards and peripherals together to enable solderless prototyping. The mikroBUS standard, found on MikroElektronika’s Click boards, is similar to SparkFun’s Qwiic and MicroMod interfaces, making its pairing on a single straightforward.
The SparkFun RP2040 mikroBUS Development Board is a flexible digital interface featuring the Raspberry Pi Foundation's RP2040 microcontroller. The board combines SparkFun’s Qwiic I2C connections with a mikroBUS socket, allowing users to use both ecosystems when designing projects with the RP2040. In addition, the board follows the Thing Plus or Feather PTH pin layout to allow for Thing Plus/Feather shields.
The SparkFun MicroMod mikroBUS Carrier Board use the MicroMod, Qwiic, and mikroBUS ecosystems to allow for easier rapid prototyping utilizing peripherals from any of the three systems. The MicroMod M.2 socket and mikroBUS 8-pin header make it possible for users to experiment with the MicroMod ecosystem and any Click board in the mikroBUS ecosystem. The inclusion of two Qwiic connectors allows users to integrate hundreds of Qwiic sensors and accessories into their projects.
Additionally, SparkFun Electronics will now be a US-based distributor for MikroElektronika with products available for purchase on sparkfun.com.
“We are excited to not only begin offering MikroElektronika's full line of Click boards in the SparkFun catalogue, but to also design and release two new development boards in partnership with MikroElektronika,” said Glenn Samala, SparkFun CEO. “MIKROE shares our strong dedication to innovation and making prototyping as easy as possible for users. Combining the mikroBUS peripheral with our MicroMod and Qwiic product ecosystems will provide users with billions of combinations to develop whatever they dream up.”
“MIKROE and SparkFun share a similar goal: to simplify and speed up the development process,” said Nebojsa Matic, CEO at MIKROE. “The new boards that we have jointly developed give designers even more choice. The new distribution agreement will increase our presence in the US market through SparkFun’s established community of users. It’s a great deal for both companies and our customers.”
