SparkFun Top pHAT Hookup Guide

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Introduction

Drum roll please... Introducing, the Top pHAT! The pHAT for the top of all your other HATs. Ta-da!!! It makes the perfect GIF(t).

Grammys GIF
Source: GIPHY

Haha... all jokes aside, this pHAT comes bundled with multiple goodies to begin your Raspberry Pi adventure; including a 2.3" TFT screen, which would be a shame to cover up other HATs.

SparkFun Top pHAT for Raspberry Pi

DEV-16301

SparkFun Top pHAT for Raspberry Pi

DEV-16653
Retired

Additionally, on the Top pHAT you will find the following components:

  • 6 addressable WS2812 RGB LEDs
  • 2 MEMS microphones
  • A mono speaker
  • A 5-way tactile switch
  • 2 momentary buttons
  • A Qwiic connector
  • There are dozens of applicable projects for this product, you can even use it to get started with your machine learning applications. The limits are up to you.

    Required Materials

    The required materials will depend on your project. However, at minimum, users will need a Raspberry Pi, an SD card, and a power supply (or power source). Users can include additional accessories and peripherals for their setup.

    Raspberry Pi

    Each of the models of the Raspberry Pi that we offer have a unique facets that separate them from each other.

    Raspberry Pi 3 B+

    Raspberry Pi 3 B+

    DEV-14643
    $35.00
    39
    Raspberry Pi 4 Model B (4 GB)

    Raspberry Pi 4 Model B (4 GB)

    DEV-15447
    $55.00
    19
    Raspberry Pi 4 Model B (2 GB)

    Raspberry Pi 4 Model B (2 GB)

    DEV-15446
    $45.00
    4

    Raspberry Pi 3 A+

    DEV-15139
    4

    Raspberry Pi Zero W (with Headers)

    DEV-15470
    8
    Note: When using the Raspberry Pi 3 or Pi 4, a compatible header that provides enough clearance and interfaces with the Top pHAT is required. This is especially important for a Raspberry Pi 4 with heat sink case, which may require multiple headers to allow air flow for thermal dissipation.

    SD Cards

    These SD cards in our catalog are tested and known to work with all the models of the Raspberry Pi. For first time users, we recommend using the NOOBS version as it has the required OS pre-installed.

    microSD Card with Adapter - 32GB (Class 10)

    microSD Card with Adapter - 32GB (Class 10)

    COM-14832
    $26.95
    1

    microSD Card with Adapter - 64GB (Class 10)

    COM-14833
    Retired

    microSD Card - 16GB (Class 10)

    COM-15051

    SparkFun Noobs Card for Raspberry Pi (16GB)

    COM-15052

    Power Supplies

    These power supplies in our catalog are tested and known to work with the Raspberry Pi models in our catalog.

    Raspberry Pi Wall Adapter Power Supply - 5.1VDC, 3.0A, 15.3W (USB-C)

    Raspberry Pi Wall Adapter Power Supply - 5.1VDC, 3.0A, 15.3W (USB-C)

    TOL-15448
    $8.00
    7
    Wall Adapter Power Supply - 5.1V DC 2.5A (USB Micro-B)

    Wall Adapter Power Supply - 5.1V DC 2.5A (USB Micro-B)

    TOL-13831
    $8.95
    22

    ⚡ Note:

    The Raspberry Pi 3 and Zero models require a micro-USB power supply. We recommend using the 5.1V 2.5A power supply.

    The Raspberry Pi 4 models require a USB-C power supply.We recommend using the Official Raspberry Pi power supply to avoid this issue.

    Extension Header

    As noted in a previous section, an extension header is required for the Raspberry Pi 3 and Pi 4 to provided enough clearance between the Top pHAT and Raspberry Pi.

    Extended GPIO Female Header - 2x20 Pin (16mm/7.30mm)

    Extended GPIO Female Header - 2x20 Pin (16mm/7.30mm)

    PRT-16763
    $2.25
    Extended GPIO Female Header - 2x20 Pin (13.5mm/9.80mm)

    Extended GPIO Female Header - 2x20 Pin (13.5mm/9.80mm)

    PRT-16764
    $2.25
    Raspberry Pi GPIO Ribbon Cable - 40-pin, 6" (RPi 3, RPi2, B+)

    Raspberry Pi GPIO Ribbon Cable - 40-pin, 6" (RPi 3, RPi2, B+)

    CAB-13028
    $3.50

    Pimoroni pHAT Stack - Fully Assembled Kit

    DEV-16303
    Retired

    This is especially important for a Raspberry Pi 4 with heat sink case, which may require multiple headers to allow air flow for thermal dissipation. There are some alternatives for that, listed above.

    Peripherals

    For users looking to use the desktop graphical user interface (GUI), they will also need the following:

    • TV, Display, or Monitor
    • Compatible HDMI Cable
    • USB Keyboard and Mouse
    Displays

    For beginners we recommend using a modern TV (i.e. with an HDMI input) or computer monitor, as it will undoubtedly be easier and more intuitive for users to setup.

    Compatible HDMI Cable

    If you don't have an HDMI cable (and possible adapter), these have been tested to work with following Raspberry Pi models:

    Raspberry Pi Zero W model:
    Mini HDMI Cable - 3ft

    Mini HDMI Cable - 3ft

    CAB-14274
    $5.50
    2
    Raspberry Pi 3 A+/B+ models:
    Raspberry Pi Official HDMI Cable (1m)

    Raspberry Pi Official HDMI Cable (1m)

    CAB-17387
    $5.00
    Raspberry Pi 4 models:
    Micro HDMI Cable - 3ft

    Micro HDMI Cable - 3ft

    CAB-15796
    $6.50
    1

    Note: If your display doesn't have an HDMI input, you will need to source an appropriate adapter. There are DVI and VGA to HDMI adapters, that will work on older computer monitors. Unfortunately, we don't have any adapters or a list of optional products for more outdated inputs (i.e. RCA, S-video, Component, or coaxial inputs).

    USB Keyboard and Mouse

    If you don't already have a USB keyboard and mouse, we do offer a multimedia keyboard that has been tested as a plug-and-play option for the Raspberry Pi models in our catalog.

    Multimedia Wireless Keyboard

    Multimedia Wireless Keyboard

    WIG-14271
    $29.95 $19.95
    4

    Note: This keyboard is similar to a smaller laptop form factor in the button layout. Users with the Raspberry Pi Zero W models will need an additional USB (OTG) cable.

    Raspberry Pi Kits

    Additionally, we do offer Raspberry Pi kits, which will include some of the accessories first-time users may already need.

    SparkFun Raspberry Pi 4 Basic Kit - 4GB

    SparkFun Raspberry Pi 4 Basic Kit - 4GB

    KIT-16384
    $96.50
    8
    SparkFun Raspberry Pi 4 Basic Kit - 2GB

    SparkFun Raspberry Pi 4 Basic Kit - 2GB

    KIT-16383
    $84.95
    1

    SparkFun Raspberry Pi Zero W Basic Kit

    KIT-14298
    5 Retired

    Raspberry Pi 3 B+ Starter Kit

    KIT-15361
    2 Retired

    Suggested Reading

    Note: First time users should also head over to the Raspberry Pi Foundation website and check out their quickstart guides:

    We have also listed a few additional resources for users to familiarize themselves with the Raspberry Pi:

    Below are some of our Raspberry Pi related tutorials that may be of interest to beginners:

    Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI)

    SPI is commonly used to connect microcontrollers to peripherals such as sensors, shift registers, and SD cards.

    Logic Levels

    Learn the difference between 3.3V and 5V devices and logic levels.

    I2C

    An introduction to I2C, one of the main embedded communications protocols in use today.

    Serial Terminal Basics

    This tutorial will show you how to communicate with your serial devices using a variety of terminal emulator applications.

    SD Cards and Writing Images

    How to upload images to an SD card for Raspberry Pi, PCDuino, or your favorite SBC.

    Raspberry Pi SPI and I2C Tutorial

    Learn how to use serial I2C and SPI buses on your Raspberry Pi using the wiringPi I/O library for C/C++ and spidev/smbus for Python.

    Headless Raspberry Pi Setup

    Configure a Raspberry Pi without a keyboard, mouse, or monitor.

    Python Programming Tutorial: Getting Started with the Raspberry Pi

    This guide will show you how to write programs on your Raspberry Pi using Python to control hardware.

    How to Use Remote Desktop on the Raspberry Pi with VNC

    Use RealVNC to connect to your Raspberry Pi to control the graphical desktop remotely across the network.

    How to Run a Raspberry Pi Program on Startup

    In this tutorial, we look at various methods for running a script or program automatically whenever your Raspberry Pi (or other Linux computer) boots up.

    Hardware Overview

    Below, is an overview of all the hardware included on the Top pHAT.

    Dimensions

    The overall dimensions of the Top pHAT are 56mm x 85mm. Don't forget to account for the small overhang of the display's ribbon cable, which wraps around the left edge of the board. For more details, users can check out the layout in the Eagle files.

    Dimensions
    Dimensions of the Top pHAT. (Click to enlarge)

    GPIO Connections

    Note: You may not recognize the COPI/CIPO labels for SPI pins. SparkFun has joined with other members of OSHWA in a resolution to move away from using "Master" and "Slave" to describe signals between the controller and the peripheral. Check out this page for more on our reasoning behind this change. You can also see OSHWA's resolution here.

    As the Top pHAT is also intended to integrate with other HATs, it is important to know all of the pin being utilized to avoid conflicts. Below is a layout of all the GPIO pins being utilized by the hardware on the Top pHAT.

    Top pHAT GPIO
    GPIO header connection on the bottom of the Top pHAT. (Click to enlarge)

    Raspberry Pi GPIO Map

    GPIO Pins Standard GPIO layout on the Raspberry Pi.

    Power Connections

    Power to the Top pHAT is supplied through the GPIO pins; both 5V and 3.3V are utilized.

    Pin # GPIO
    1 3.3V
    17 3.3V
    2 5V
    4 5V
    6 GND
    9 GND
    Pin # GPIO
    14 GND
    20 GND
    30 GND
    34 GND
    39 GND

    WM8960 Stereo CODEC (I2S)

    Pin # GPIO Function
    12 GPIO 18 (PCM_CLK) BCLK
    35 GPIO 19 (PCM_FS) DAC-LRC
    38 GPIO 20 (PCM_DIN) ADC-DAT
    40 GPIO 21 (PCM_DOUT DAC-DAT

    WS2812 RGB LEDs

    Pin # GPIO Function
    32 GPIO 12 (PWM0) Data In

    2.4” TFT LCD Display (SPI)

    Pin # GPIO Function
    15 GPIO 22 Backlight
    16 GPIO 23 RESET
    18 GPIO 24 DC
    19 GPIO 10 (COPI) SDI
    21 GPIO 09 (CIPO) SDO
    23 GPIO 11 (SCLK) SCK
    24 GPIO 08 (CE0) CS

    Qwiic (I2C)

    Qwiic Connector
    Pin # GPIO Function
    3 GPIO 02 (SDA) Qwiic (SDA)
    5 GPIO 03 (SCL) Qwiic (SCL)


    Button Controller (I2C)
    Pin # GPIO Function
    3 GPIO 02 (SDA) Qwiic (SDA)
    5 GPIO 03 (SCL) Qwiic (SCL)
    22 GPIO 25 Button Interrupt

    Audio (I2S)

    There are four audio components on the Top pHAT; an audio codec, two MEMs microphones, and a speaker. They controlled by the Raspberry Pi using an I2S protocol. The WM8960 stereo codec is the driver behind the audio components. It is used to both drive the speaker output and to control the microphone interface. The MEMs microphones and speaker are used as the input and output components of the audio interface.

    Top pHAT Audio
    Audio components on the Top pHAT.

    2.4" TFT LCD Display (SPI)

    The screen on the Top pHAT is most prevalent component on the Top pHAT. The 2.4" TFT LCD Display has a native resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and is backlit by four LEDs. The screen can be replaced using the 40 Pin 0.5mm FPC connector on the bottom of the Top pHAT. (*When replacing the screen, users should verify the replacement has the appropriate connections, driver, and configured in the operating system.)

    Top pHAT Screen Screen on the Top pHAT.
    Top pHAT Screen Cable FPC connector for the screen on the bottom of the Top pHAT.
    Note: On the initial released of this product, users may notice that the ribbon cable looks different than what is pictured. That is due to a supply issue; users will have the 2.4" TFT LCD (Touch) Display. This is a drop in replacement screen with an added touch capacity. (The touch is not functional as pins are not broken out.)

    WS2812 RGB LEDs

    There are six addressable RGB WS2812 LEDs on the board. These can be used as indicators, for when you might be too far way to read the screen, but it is still in your line of sight. These LEDs can get very bright; therefore, we recommend using a lower brightness setting.

    Top pHAT LEDs
    Six WS2812B addressable LEDs on the Top pHAt.

    ⚡ Note: The LEDs can draw a decent amount of current at full brightness; ~50mA each for a total of 300mA. This is important as users can brown out their Raspberry Pi if the total current draw exceeds the capacity of the power supply.

    Qwiic (I2C)

    Qwiic is the name of our simple to use connector for I2C devices. It provides a simple, solderless, and polarized connection that should be impossible to mess up. (In case you were wondering, Qwiic is a play on words between quick and I2C.)

    Button Controller

    Although not an official Qwiic device, the button controller is accessed through the I2C interface. The controller is an ATtiny84, which emulates an I2C peripheral device and is used to read the 5-way switch and two momentary buttons. An interrupt pin is available for more immediate responses.

    Top pHAT Buttons
    Button controller components on the Top pHAT.

    Qwiic Connector

    A connector is provided for attaching other Qwiic devices.

    Top pHAT Qwiic Connector
    Qwiic connector on the Top pHAT.

    Note: While most of our Qwiic devices should be compatible with the Raspberry Pi, not all have a supported Python package. Users who are unfamiliar with our Qwiic connect system, can check out the video below:

    Hardware Assembly

    Assembly for the Top pHAT is fairly straight forward. It plugs directly into the GPIO pins of a Raspberry Pi. Most importantly, users need pay attention to the orientation of the pHAT and double check that the pin are lined up properly. below are a few examples for users to follow.

    Pi3A with Top pHAT
    Top pHAT on Pi 3 Model A+.
    Pi3B with Top pHAT
    Top pHAT on Pi 3 Model B.
    Pi4B with Top pHAT
    Top pHAT on Pi 4 Model B.
    (Click images to enlarge)

    If the clearance between the pHAT and the Raspberry Pi components (including things like a case or heat sink) becomes an issue, a header can be used to increase the spacing.

    Adding header
    Adding header to extend clearance between Top pHAT and other components. (Click to enlarge)

    Header on Pi3B
    Header on Pi 3 Model B. (Click to enlarge)
    Header on Pi4B
    Header on Pi 4 Model B. (Click to enlarge)

    To configure the Raspberry Pi for use with the Top pHAT, the PIXEL desktop is recommended. It will be the most convenient for users, but users can still use other methods like SSH to remotely access the Raspberry Pi. To utilize the desktop, users will need to add peripherals like a monitor and keyboard.

    Pi3B desktop setup
    Pi 3 Model B setup to access the PIXEL desktop.
    Pi4B desktop setup
    Pi 4 Model B setup to access the PIXEL desktop.
    (Click images to enlarge)

    OS Configuration: Part 1

    Configuring the Raspbian OS for the Top pHAT is relatively simple. The SPI and I2C interfaces need to be enabled along with the overscan disabled. (Users wishing to use the screen on boot will also need to configure the OS to boot to the CLI and run the frame buffer mapping script on startup. Directions will be laid out in OS Configuration: Part 2; however, users should do this last.)

    Configuration Methods

    There are 2 primary methods for configuring the Raspbian OS. Within the Raspberry Pi PIXEL desktop, the graphical Raspberry Pi Configuration application from the Preferences menu is the most user friendly option. Users can also make changes through the console based raspi-config application.

    configuration app

    Raspberry Pi Configuration application. (Click to enlarge)

    raspi-config tool

    raspi-config application. (Click to enlarge)

    (*For more details on the operating system configuration, check out the Raspberry Pi Foundation website.)

    Disable Overscan

    Users will want to disable overscan through the System or Advanced Options menus.

    Raspberry Pi Configuration Application

    On the main System tab, disable the Overscan and then move on to the next section to enable the SPI and I2C interfaces.

    config app system menu
    Disabling the overscan through the Raspberry Pi Configuration application.

    Raspi-Config Application

    From the 7 Advanced Options menu, select the A2 Overscan option and then follow the prompts to disable the overscan. Move on the next section to enable the SPI and I2C interfaces.

    raspi-config advanced options menu
    Selecting the Advanced Options menu in the console based raspi-config application. (Click to enlarge)

    raspi-config disable overscan
    Selecting the Overscan option to disable it, using the prompts. (Click to enlarge)

    Enable SPI and I2C

    Users will need to enable both the SPI and I2C interfaces through the Interface menu.

    Raspberry Pi Configuration Application

    From the Interfaces tab, enable both the SPI and I2C interfaces.

    config app interface menu
    Enabling the SPI and I2C interfaces through the Raspberry Pi Configuration application.

    Once done, click the OK button. Reboot the Raspberry Pi when prompted.

    Raspi-Config Application

    From the 5 Interfaces Options menu, select the P4 SPI option and then follow the prompts to enable the interface.

    raspi-config interface menu
    Selecting the Interfaces Options menu in the console based raspi-config application. (Click to enlarge)

    enable spi
    Selecting the SPI option to enable the interface, using the prompts. (Click to enlarge)

    Repeat the previous steps, but select the P5 I2C option; again, following the prompts to enable the interface.

    enable i2c
    Selecting the I2C option to enable the interface, using the prompts. (Click to enlarge)

    Once completed, use the Tab key to select the <Finish> button. Reboot the Raspberry Pi when prompted.

    Button Controller

    Note: This tutorial assumes you are using the latest version of Python 3. If this is your first time using Python or I2C hardware on a Raspberry Pi, please checkout our tutorial on Python Programming with the Raspberry Pi and the Raspberry Pi SPI and I2C Tutorial.

    We've written a Python package to easily get setup and take readings from the button controller on the Top pHAT. There are two methods for installing the Python package for the button controller.

    1. Install the all inclusive SparkFun Qwiic Python package.
    2. Independently install the SparkFun Top pHAT Button Python package.

    The all inclusive SparkFun Qwiic Python package, is recommended as is also installs the required I2C driver as well.

    Note: Don't forget to double check that the hardware I2C connection is enabled on your Raspberry Pi or other single board computer.

    SparkFun Qwiic Package

    This repository is hosted on PyPi as the sparkfun-top-phat-button package. On systems that support PyPi installation via pip3 (use pip for Python 2) is simple, using the following commands:

    For all users (note: the user must have sudo privileges):

    language:bash
    sudo pip3 install sparkfun-qwiic
    

    For the current user:

    language:bash
    pip3 install sparkfun-qwiic
    

    Independent Installation

    You can install the sparkfun-top-phat-button Python package independently, which is hosted by PyPi. However, if you prefer to manually download and install the package from the GitHub repository, you can grab them here (*Please be aware of any package dependencies. You can also check out the repository documentation page, hosted on ReadtheDocs.):

    PyPi Installation

    This repository is hosted on PyPi as the sparkfun-top-phat-button package. On systems that support PyPi installation via pip3 (use pip for Python 2) is simple, using the following commands:

    For all users (note: the user must have sudo privileges):

    language:bash
    sudo pip3 install sparkfun-top-phat-button
    

    For the current user:

    language:bash
    pip3 install sparkfun-top-phat-button
    

    Local Installation

    To install, make sure the setuptools package is installed on the system.

    Direct installation at the command line (use python for Python 2):

    language:bash
    python3 setup.py install
    

    To build a package for use with pip3:

    language:bash
    python3 setup.py sdist
    

    A package file is built and placed in a subdirectory called dist. This package file can be installed using pip3.

    language:bash
    cd dist
    pip3 install sparkfun_top_phat_button-<version>.tar.gz
    

    Python Package Operation

    Before we jump into getting readings, let's take a closer look at the available functions in the Python package. Below, is a description of the basic functionality of the Python package. This includes the package organization, built-in methods, and their inputs and/or outputs. For more details on how the Python package works, check out the source code, the firmware, and package documentation.

    Dependencies

    This Python package has a very few dependencies in the code, listed below:

    language:python
    from __future__ import print_function
    import qwiic_i2c
    

    Default Variables

    The default variables, in the code, for this Python package are listed below:

    language:python
    # Some devices have multiple availabel addresses - this is a list of these addresses.
    # NOTE: The first address in this list is considered the default I2C address for the
    # device.
    _AVAILABLE_I2C_ADDRESS = [0x71]
    
    # Register codes for the Joystick
    BUTTON_ID               = 0x00
    BUTTON_VERSION1         = 0x01
    BUTTON_VERSION2         = 0x02
    BUTTON_PRESSED          = 0x03
    BUTTON_CLICKED          = 0x04
    BUTTON_INTERRUPT        = 0x05
    BUTTON_DEBOUNCE         = 0x06
    BUTTON_CHANGE_ADDREESS  = 0x1F
    
    # Define the bit positions of the buttons and interrupt flag
    A                     = 0
    B                     = 1
    UP                    = 2
    DOWN                  = 3
    LEFT                  = 4
    RIGHT                 = 5
    CENTER                = 6
    EVENT_AVAILABLE       = 7
    
    # Define the positions of the Interrupt Enable Bits
    CLICKED_INTERRUPT_ENABLE        = 0
    PRESSED_INTERRUPT_ENABLE        = 1
    

    Class

    ToppHATButton() or ToppHATButton(address)
    This Python package operates as a class object, allowing new instances of that type to be made. An __init__() constructor is used that creates a connection to an I2C device over the I2C bus using the default or specified I2C address.

    The Constructor

    A constructor is a special kind of method used to initialize (assign values to) the data members needed by the object when it is created.

    __init__(address=None, i2c_driver=None):

    Input: value
    The value of the device address. If not defined, the Python package will use the default I2C address (0x71) stored under _AVAILABLE_I2C_ADDRESS variable.
    Input: i2c_driver
    Loads the specified I2C driver; by default the Qwiic I2C driver is used: qwiic_i2c.getI2CDriver(). Users should use the default I2C driver and leave this field blank.

    Functions

    A function that is an attribute of the class, which defines a method for instances of that class. In simple terms, they are objects for the operations (or methods) of the class.

    .is_connected()
    Determines if the button controller device is connected to the system.

    Output: Boolean

    True: Connected to I2C device on the default (or specified) address.
    False: No device found or connected.

    .begin()
    Initialize the operation of the button controller. (Basically tests the connection to the button controller.)

    Output: Boolean

    True: The initialization was successful.
    False: Initialization failed.

    .get_button_pressed()
    Updates and returns buffer for all buttons and whether or not they are pressed as well as the pressed interrupt flag.

        Reading this register also clears it.
        7(MSB)  6    5    4    3    2    1    0(LSB)
          INT  CTR  RGT  LFT  DWN   UP   B    A
    

    Returns 1 bit when a button is currently being pressed, based on the mapping above. The interrupt must be cleared by the user.

    Output: Integer

    0: No interrupt; no buttons currently pressed.
    1: No interrupt; only Button A is currently being pressed.
    2: No interrupt; only Button B is currently being pressed.
    3: No interrupt; Button A and Button B are currently being pressed./br> .
    .
    .
    195: Interrupt; Button A and Button B are currently being pressed. The 5-way switch is currently being pressed with the Center pad.
    196-255: Are not possible as the 5-way switch cannot indicate multiple directions.

    .get_button_clicked()
    Updates and returns buffer for all buttons and whether or not they have been clicked as well as the clicked interrupt flag.

        Reading this register also clears it.
        7(MSB)  6    5    4    3    2    1    0(LSB)
          INT  CTR  RGT  LFT  DWN   UP   B    A
    

    Returns 1 when a button has received a full click cycle (press and release). The interrupt must be cleared by the user.

    Output: Integer

    0: No interrupt; no buttons were clicked.
    1: No interrupt; only Button A was clicked.
    2: No interrupt; only Button B was clicked.
    3: No interrupt; Button A and Button B were clicked.
    .
    .
    .
    254: Interrupt; Button B was clicked. The 5-way switch, was clicked in all directions, including the Center pad.
    255: Interrupt; Button A and Button B were clicked. The 5-way switch, was clicked in all directions, including the Center pad.

    .get_version()
    Returns a string of the firmware version number.

    Output: String

    The firmware version

    .get_pressed_interrupt()
    Returns the status of the pressed interrupt enable.

    Output: Boolean

    The value of the interrupt enable bit.

    .set_pressed_interrupt(bit_setting)
    Sets the status of the pressed interrupt enable bit.

    Input: Boolean

    0: The pressed interrupt enable bit.
    1: The pressed interrupt enable bit.

    Output: Boolean

    0: I2C transaction failed, the interrupt enable bit wasn't set.
    1: I2C transaction succeeded, the interrupt enable bit was set.

    .get_clicked_interrupt()
    Returns the status of the clicked interrupt enable.

    Output: Boolean

    The value of the clicked interrupt enable bit.

    .set_clicked_interrupt(bit_setting)
    Sets the status of the clicked interrupt enable bit.

    Input: Boolean

    0: The clicked interrupt enable bit.
    1: The clicked interrupt enable bit.

    Output: Boolean

    0: I2C transaction failed, the interrupt enable bit wasn't set.
    1: I2C transaction succeeded, the interrupt enable bit was set.

    Upgrading the Python Package

    In the future, changes to the Python package might be made. Updating the installed packages has to be done individually for each package (i.e. sub-modules and dependencies won't update automatically and must be updated manually). For the sparkfun-top-phat-button Python package, use the following command (use pip for Python 2):

    For all users (note: the user must have sudo privileges):

    language:bash
    sudo pip3 install --upgrade sparkfun-top-phat-button
    

    For the current user:

    language:bash
    pip3 install --upgrade sparkfun-top-phat-button
    

    Python Examples

    There are two examples written for the Top pHAT using this Python package. They can be found in the GitHub repository or viewed in the ReadtheDocs documentation

    Example 1

    Example 1 utilizes the interrupt for more immediate responses.

    #!/usr/bin/env python
    #-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    # top_phat_button_ex1.py
    #
    # Polling example for the Top pHAT Buttons
    #------------------------------------------------------------------------
    #
    # Written by  SparkFun Electronics, April 2020
    # 
    # This python library supports the SparkFun Electroncis qwiic 
    # qwiic sensor/board ecosystem on a Raspberry Pi (and compatable) single
    # board computers. 
    #
    # More information on qwiic is at https://www.sparkfun.com/qwiic
    #
    # Do you like this library? Help support SparkFun. Buy a board!
    #
    #==================================================================================
    # Copyright (c) 2019 SparkFun Electronics
    #
    # Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy 
    # of this software and associated documentation files (the "Software"), to deal 
    # in the Software without restriction, including without limitation the rights 
    # to use, copy, modify, merge, publish, distribute, sublicense, and/or sell 
    # copies of the Software, and to permit persons to whom the Software is 
    # furnished to do so, subject to the following conditions:
    #
    # The above copyright notice and this permission notice shall be included in all 
    # copies or substantial portions of the Software.
    #
    # THE SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED "AS IS", WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR 
    # IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, 
    # FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NONINFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE 
    # AUTHORS OR COPYRIGHT HOLDERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY CLAIM, DAMAGES OR OTHER 
    # LIABILITY, WHETHER IN AN ACTION OF CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE, ARISING FROM, 
    # OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE SOFTWARE OR THE USE OR OTHER DEALINGS IN THE 
    # SOFTWARE.
    #==================================================================================
    # Example 1
    #
    
    from __future__ import print_function
    import top_phat_button
    import time
    import sys
    
    myButtons = top_phat_button.ToppHATButton()
    
    def runExample():
    
        print("\nSparkFun Top pHAT Button  Example 1\n")
    
        if myButtons.is_connected() == False:
            print("The Top pHAT Button device isn't connected to the system. Please check your connection", \
                file=sys.stderr)
            return
    
        myButtons.pressed_interrupt_enable = False
        myButtons.clicked_interrupt_enable = False
    
        while True:
            myButtons.button_pressed #These functions must be called to update button variables to their latest setting
            myButtons.button_clicked #These functions must be called to update button variables to their latest setting  
            if myButtons.a_pressed == True:
                print("A Pressed")
            if myButtons.a_clicked == True:
                print("A Released")
            if myButtons.b_pressed == True:
                print("B Pressed")
            if myButtons.b_clicked == True:
                print("B Released")
            if myButtons.up_pressed == True:
                print("Up Pressed")
            if myButtons.up_clicked == True:
                print("Up Released")
            if myButtons.down_pressed == True:
                print("Down Pressed")
            if myButtons.down_clicked == True:
                print("Down Released")
            if myButtons.left_pressed == True:
                print("Left Pressed")
            if myButtons.left_clicked == True:
                print("Left Released")
            if myButtons.right_pressed == True:
                print("Right Pressed")
            if myButtons.right_clicked == True:
                print("Right Released")
            if myButtons.center_pressed == True:
                print("Center Pressed")
            if myButtons.center_clicked == True:
                print("Center Released")
    
            time.sleep(.1)
    
    
    if __name__ == '__main__':
        try:
            runExample()
        except (KeyboardInterrupt, SystemExit) as exErr:
            print("\nEnding Example 1")
            sys.exit(0)
    

    Example 2

    Example 2 doesn't utilize the interrupt and must constantly ping the button controller for updates on potential actions performed on the buttons.

    #!/usr/bin/env python
    #-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    # top_phat_button_ex2.py
    #
    # Interrupt example for the Top pHAT Buttons
    #------------------------------------------------------------------------
    #
    # Written by  SparkFun Electronics, April 2020
    # 
    # This python library supports the SparkFun Electroncis qwiic 
    # qwiic sensor/board ecosystem on a Raspberry Pi (and compatable) single
    # board computers. 
    #
    # More information on qwiic is at https://www.sparkfun.com/qwiic
    #
    # Do you like this library? Help support SparkFun. Buy a board!
    #
    #==================================================================================
    # Copyright (c) 2019 SparkFun Electronics
    #
    # Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy 
    # of this software and associated documentation files (the "Software"), to deal 
    # in the Software without restriction, including without limitation the rights 
    # to use, copy, modify, merge, publish, distribute, sublicense, and/or sell 
    # copies of the Software, and to permit persons to whom the Software is 
    # furnished to do so, subject to the following conditions:
    #
    # The above copyright notice and this permission notice shall be included in all 
    # copies or substantial portions of the Software.
    #
    # THE SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED "AS IS", WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR 
    # IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, 
    # FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NONINFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE 
    # AUTHORS OR COPYRIGHT HOLDERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY CLAIM, DAMAGES OR OTHER 
    # LIABILITY, WHETHER IN AN ACTION OF CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE, ARISING FROM, 
    # OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE SOFTWARE OR THE USE OR OTHER DEALINGS IN THE 
    # SOFTWARE.
    #==================================================================================
    # Example 2
    #
    
    from __future__ import print_function
    import top_phat_button
    import time
    import sys
    import RPi.GPIO as GPIO
    
    INTERRUPT_PIN = 25
    GPIO.setmode(GPIO.BCM)
    GPIO.setup(INTERRUPT_PIN, GPIO.IN)
    
    myButtons = top_phat_button.ToppHATButton()
    
    def interruptCallback(channel):
        myButtons.button_pressed
        myButtons.button_clicked #Both interrupts are configured, so we need to read both registers to clear the interrupt and update our button data.   
        if myButtons.a_pressed == True:
            print("A Pressed")
        if myButtons.a_clicked == True:
            print("A Released")
        if myButtons.b_pressed == True:
            print("B Pressed")
        if myButtons.b_clicked == True:
            print("B Released")
        if myButtons.up_pressed == True:
            print("Up Pressed")
        if myButtons.up_clicked == True:
            print("Up Released")
        if myButtons.down_pressed == True:
            print("Down Pressed")
        if myButtons.down_clicked == True:
            print("Down Released")
        if myButtons.left_pressed == True:
            print("Left Pressed")
        if myButtons.left_clicked == True:
            print("Left Released")
        if myButtons.right_pressed == True:
            print("Right Pressed")
        if myButtons.right_clicked == True:
            print("Right Released")
        if myButtons.center_pressed == True:
            print("Center Pressed")
        if myButtons.center_clicked == True:
            print("Center Released")
    
    GPIO.add_event_detect(INTERRUPT_PIN, GPIO.FALLING, callback=interruptCallback, bouncetime=5)
    
    def runExample():
    
        print("\nSparkFun Top pHAT Button  Example 1\n")
    
        if myButtons.is_connected() == False:
            print("The Top pHAT Button device isn't connected to the system. Please check your connection", \
                file=sys.stderr)
            return
    
        myButtons.pressed_interrupt_enable = True
        myButtons.clicked_interrupt_enable = True #Enable both hardware interrupts
    
        while True:
    
            time.sleep(.1)
    
    
    if __name__ == '__main__':
        try:
            runExample()
        except (KeyboardInterrupt, SystemExit) as exErr:
            print("\nEnding Example 1")
            sys.exit(0)
    

    WS2812B LEDs

    Note: This tutorial assumes you are using the latest version of Python 3. If this is your first time using Python or I2C hardware on a Raspberry Pi, please checkout our tutorial on Python Programming with the Raspberry Pi and the Raspberry Pi SPI and I2C Tutorial.

    For the addressable LEDs, we will be using Adafruit's neopixel python package. The adafruit-circuitpython-neopixel Python package is hosted on PyPi.

    PyPi Installation

    On systems that support PyPi installation via pip3 (use pip for Python 2) is simple, using the following commands:

    For all users (note: the user must have sudo privileges):

    language:bash
    sudo pip3 install adafruit-circuitpython-neopixel
    

    For the current user:

    language:bash
    pip3 install adafruit-circuitpython-neopixel
    
    Note: Based on our experience, for users to access the GPIO functionality, they will need to install the python package using the sudo command.

    Python Examples

    Before users jump into operating the LEDs, it is recommended that they review the the Read the Docs documentation for the Python package and datasheet for the WS2812B LEDs. Below are a few examples for using the LEDs on the Top pHAT; don't forget that the LEDs are attached to pin 12 and

    Note: Based on our experience, users should start with a brightness setting of around 10. The LEDs are fairly bright and can leave users "seeing spots" at full brightness.

    Example 1

    This is a basic example setting the first, fourth, and fifth LEDs. The array is RGB, with the value indicating the brightness magnitude (0-255).

    language:python
    # Import Dependencies
    import board
    import neopixel
    
    # Create the class object
    pixels = neopixel.NeoPixel(board.D12, 6, auto_write=False)
    
    # Set Pixel Configuration
    pixels[0] = (10, 0, 0)
    pixels[3] = (0, 10, 0)
    pixels[4] = (0, 0, 10)
    
    # Display Configuration
    pixels.show()
    

    Example 2

    This is a basic example cycles through the LEDs individually setting them green.

    language:python
    # Import Dependencies
    import board
    import neopixel
    import time
    
    # Create the class object
    pixels = neopixel.NeoPixel(board.D12, 6)
    
    while True:
        for i in range(6):
            # Clear previous LED
            if i == 0:
                pixels[5] = (0,0,0)
            else:
                pixels[i-1]=(0,0,0)
    
            # Set LED green
            pixels[i]=(0,10,0)
    
            # Delay
            time.sleep(.2)
    

    WM8960 Audio Codec

    Getting the audio components up an operational involves two steps; installing the driver for the WM8960 audio codec and configuring the default sound card in the OS. We will be following the installation instructions from Waveshare for their Audio HAT.

    Audio Codec Driver

    To install the driver for the WM8960 audio codec, enter the following lines into the terminal or CLI.

    language:bash
    git clone https://github.com/waveshare/WM8960-Audio-HAT
    cd WM8960-Audio-HAT
    sudo ./install.sh
    sudo reboot
    

    If the installation is done properly, the output in the terminal should look like this:

    language:bash
    pi@raspberrypi:~ $ git clone https://github.com/waveshare/WM8960-Audio-HAT
    Cloning into 'WM8960-Audio-HAT'...
    remote: Enumerating objects: 3, done.
    remote: Counting objects: 100% (3/3), done.
    remote: Compressing objects: 100% (3/3), done.
    remote: Total 51 (delta 0), reused 0 (delta 0), pack-reused 48
    Unpacking objects: 100% (51/51), done.
    
    pi@raspberrypi:~ $ cd WM8960-Audio-HAT
    
    pi@raspberrypi:~ $ sudo ./install.sh
    
    pi@raspberrypi:~/WM8960-Audio-HAT $ sudo ./install.sh
    Get:1 http://archive.raspberrypi.org/debian stretch InRelease [25.4 kB]
    Get:2 http://raspbian.raspberrypi.org/raspbian stretch InRelease [15.0 kB]
    Get:3 http://archive.raspberrypi.org/debian stretch/main armhf Packages [220 kB]
    Get:4 http://raspbian.raspberrypi.org/raspbian stretch/main armhf Packages [11.7 MB]
    Fetched 11.9 MB in 17s (699 kB/s)
    Reading package lists... Done
    Building dependency tree
    Reading state information... Done
    52 packages can be upgraded. Run 'apt list --upgradable' to see them.
    Reading package lists... Done
    Building dependency tree
    Reading state information... Done
    raspberrypi-kernel is already the newest version (1.20190819~stretch-1).
    raspberrypi-kernel-headers is already the newest version (1.20190819~stretch-1).
    0 upgraded, 0 newly installed, 0 to remove and 52 not upgraded.
    1 not fully installed or removed.
    After this operation, 0 B of additional disk space will be used.
    Setting up python-sense-emu (1.1) ...
    Traceback (most recent call last):
      File "/usr/bin/pycompile", line 35, in <module>
        from debpython.version import SUPPORTED, debsorted, vrepr, \
      File "/usr/share/python/debpython/version.py", line 24, in <module>
        from ConfigParser import SafeConfigParser
    ImportError: No module named 'ConfigParser'
    dpkg: error processing package python-sense-emu (--configure):
     subprocess installed post-installation script returned error exit status 1
    Errors were encountered while processing:
     python-sense-emu
    E: Sub-process /usr/bin/dpkg returned an error code (1)
    Reading package lists... Done
    Building dependency tree
    Reading state information... Done
    dkms is already the newest version (2.3-2).
    i2c-tools is already the newest version (3.1.2-3).
    i2c-tools set to manually installed.
    Suggested packages:
      git-daemon-run | git-daemon-sysvinit git-doc git-el git-email git-gui gitk gitweb git-arch git-cvs git-mediawiki
      git-svn
    The following NEW packages will be installed:
      libasound2-plugins
    The following packages will be upgraded:
      git
    1 upgraded, 1 newly installed, 0 to remove and 51 not upgraded.
    1 not fully installed or removed.
    Need to get 3,462 kB of archives.
    After this operation, 293 kB of additional disk space will be used.
    Get:1 http://mirror.sjc02.svwh.net/raspbian/raspbian stretch/main armhf git armhf 1:2.11.0-3+deb9u5 [3,389 kB]
    Get:2 http://mirror.sjc02.svwh.net/raspbian/raspbian stretch/main armhf libasound2-plugins armhf 1.1.1-1 [72.9 kB]
    Fetched 3,462 kB in 1s (2,536 kB/s)
    apt-listchanges: Reading changelogs...
    (Reading database ... 141372 files and directories currently installed.)
    Preparing to unpack .../git_1%3a2.11.0-3+deb9u5_armhf.deb ...
    Unpacking git (1:2.11.0-3+deb9u5) over (1:2.11.0-3+deb9u4) ...
    Selecting previously unselected package libasound2-plugins:armhf.
    Preparing to unpack .../libasound2-plugins_1.1.1-1_armhf.deb ...
    Unpacking libasound2-plugins:armhf (1.1.1-1) ...
    Setting up python-sense-emu (1.1) ...
    Traceback (most recent call last):
      File "/usr/bin/pycompile", line 35, in <module>
        from debpython.version import SUPPORTED, debsorted, vrepr, \
      File "/usr/share/python/debpython/version.py", line 24, in <module>
        from ConfigParser import SafeConfigParser
    ImportError: No module named 'ConfigParser'
    dpkg: error processing package python-sense-emu (--configure):
     subprocess installed post-installation script returned error exit status 1
    Setting up libasound2-plugins:armhf (1.1.1-1) ...
    Setting up git (1:2.11.0-3+deb9u5) ...
    Errors were encountered while processing:
     python-sense-emu
    E: Sub-process /usr/bin/dpkg returned an error code (1)
    
    Creating symlink /var/lib/dkms/wm8960-soundcard/1.0/source ->
                     /usr/src/wm8960-soundcard-1.0
    
    DKMS: add completed.
    
    Kernel preparation unnecessary for this kernel.  Skipping...
    
    Building module:
    cleaning build area....
    make -j4 KERNELRELEASE=4.19.66-v7+ -C /lib/modules/4.19.66-v7+/build M=/var/lib/dkms/wm8960-soundcard/1.0/build............
    cleaning build area....
    
    DKMS: build completed.
    
    snd-soc-wm8960:
    Running module version sanity check.
     - Original module
       - No original module exists within this kernel
     - Installation
       - Installing to /lib/modules/4.19.66-v7+/kernel/sound/soc/codecs/
    
    snd-soc-wm8960-soundcard.ko:
    Running module version sanity check.
     - Original module
       - No original module exists within this kernel
     - Installation
       - Installing to /lib/modules/4.19.66-v7+/kernel/sound/soc/bcm/
    
    depmod....
    
    DKMS: install completed.
    Created symlink /etc/systemd/system/sysinit.target.wants/wm8960-soundcard.service → /lib/systemd/system/wm8960-soundcard.service.
    ------------------------------------------------------
    Please reboot your raspberry pi to apply all settings
    Enjoy!
    ------------------------------------------------------
    
    pi@raspberrypi:~ $ sudo reboot
    

    Driver Installation Verification

    To verify that the audio driver installation was successful and the kernel was rebuilt, use the sudo dkms status command in the terminal or CLI. Users should a response similar to:

    language:bash
    wm8960-soundcard, 1.0, 4.19.66-v7+, armv7l: installed
    

    Playback Devices

    For further verification, users can list the playback devices using the aplay -l command in the terminal or CLI. Users should a response similar to:

    language:bash
    **** List of PLAYBACK Hardware Devices ****
    card 0: wm8960soundcard [wm8960-soundcard], device 0: bcm2835-i2s-wm8960-hifi wm8960-hifi-0 []
      Subdevices: 1/1
      Subdevice #0: subdevice #0
    card 1: ALSA [bcm2835 ALSA], device 0: bcm2835 ALSA [bcm2835 ALSA]
      Subdevices: 7/7
      Subdevice #0: subdevice #0
      Subdevice #1: subdevice #1
      Subdevice #2: subdevice #2
      Subdevice #3: subdevice #3
      Subdevice #4: subdevice #4
      Subdevice #5: subdevice #5
      Subdevice #6: subdevice #6
    card 1: ALSA [bcm2835 ALSA], device 1: bcm2835 IEC958/HDMI [bcm2835 IEC958/HDMI]
      Subdevices: 1/1
      Subdevice #0: subdevice #0
    card 1: ALSA [bcm2835 ALSA], device 2: bcm2835 IEC958/HDMI1 [bcm2835 IEC958/HDMI1]
      Subdevices: 1/1
      Subdevice #0: subdevice #0
    card 2: vc4hdmi [vc4-hdmi], device 0: MAI PCM vc4-hdmi-hifi-0 []
      Subdevices: 1/1
      Subdevice #0: subdevice #0
    

    The important information users need to identify is the card number listed for the WM8960:

    card 0:wm8960soundcard [wm8960-soundcard], device 0: bcm2835-i2s-wm8960-hifi wm8960-hifi-0 []

    Capture Devices

    For further verification, users can also list the capture devices using the arecord -l command in the terminal or CLI. Users should a response similar to:

    language:bash
    **** List of CAPTURE Hardware Devices ****
    card 0: wm8960soundcard [wm8960-soundcard], device 0: bcm2835-i2s-wm8960-hifi wm8960-hifi-0 []
      Subdevices: 1/1
      Subdevice #0: subdevice #0
    

    The important information users need to identify is the card number listed for the WM8960:

    card 0:wm8960soundcard [wm8960-soundcard], device 0: bcm2835-i2s-wm8960-hifi wm8960-hifi-0 []

    Test

    To test that the speaker and microphone are working with the WM8960 audio codec, use the sudo arecord -f cd -D hw:0 | aplay -D hw:0 command in the terminal or CLI. This will cause the microphones to record and playback the audio to the mono speaker in real time. The entries for the hardware (hw:0) should correspond with the card number for the playback and capture devices. Users can also use the following commands to record and play files:

    • Record File: sudo arecord -D hw:0 -f S32_LE -r 16000 -c 2 test.wav
    • Play File: sudo aplay -D hw:0 test.wav

    Configure Default Sound Card

    The last part of the installation process requires the default sound card to be configured, using the sudo alsamixer command in the terminal or CLI. From the system menu, use the F6 key to list devices and note the number indicating the WM8960 sound card.

    List ALSA devices
    Listing the ALSA mixer devices with the F6 key. (Click to enlarge)

    To modify and configure the default sound card, use the sudo nano /usr/share/alsa/alsa.conf command in the terminal or CLI. In the alsa.conf file, users will modify the following lines to the number indicating the WM8960 sound card device value:

    language:bash
    defaults.ctl.card 0
    defaults.pcm.card 0
    defaults.pcm.device 0
    

    ALSA configuration
    Configuring the ALSA mixer defaults. (Click to enlarge)

    Note: Users may need to test the values for defaults.pcm.device between with 0 or 1. If they run into the following error:

    ALSA lib pcm_dmix.c:1108:(snd_pcm_dmix_open) unable to open peripheral
    Traceback (most recent call last):
      File "playwav.py", line 59, in 
        device = alsaaudio.PCM(device="default")
    alsaaudio.ALSAAudioError: No such file or directory [default]

    when running the Python playback code sudo python playwav.py test2.wav in the examples below.

    Once these modifications have been made, users should go back an verify that the modifications have taken effect, using the sudo alsamixer command in the terminal or CLI.

    ALSA configured
    ALSA mixer default device configured. (Click to enlarge)

    Python Examples

    In order to use the Python examples provided by Waveshare, users will need to install the libasound2-dev ALSA library and the pyalsaaudio Python package.

    • ALSA Library: sudo apt-get install libasound2-dev
    • Python Package: sudo pip3 install pyalsaaudio

    Users will need to download example code from the Waveshare website and extract the files:

    language:bash
    wget https://www.waveshare.com/w/upload/1/19/WM8960_Audio_HAT_Code.tar.gz
    tar -xzf WM8960_Audio_HAT_Code.tar.gz
    

    Once extracted, users will need to change the directory into the extracted folder. There they can use the following sample codes to record and play .wav files.

    • Record to File: sudo python3 recordwav.py test2.wav
    • Play File: sudo python3 playwav.py test2.wav

    Note: Users may run into a type error, when running the Python playback code sudo python playwav.py test2.wav:

    Traceback (most recent call last):
      File "playwav.py", line 61, in 
        play(device, f)
      File "playwav.py", line 35, in play
        device.setperiodsize(periodsize)
    TypeError: integer argument expected, got float

    The issue is in line 35 of the playwav.py file, which needs to be modified to periodsize = int(f.getframerate() / 8).

    2.4" TFT Display (Linux 5.4 Update)

    For users who are utilizing the latest distribution of the Raspberry Pi OS with a kernel that has been built after the Linux 5.4 update, the fbtft device has been removed from the available driver modules. The following instructions are the Aug 2020 release (2020-08-20) and later. For prior distribution releases, users should refer to the instructions from Archived section.

    linux version
    Linux version listed.

    Download the device tree source file sfe-topphat-overlay.dts by clicking on the link or the button below.

    downloaded file
    The sfe-topphat-overlay.dts file downloaded to the home directory.

    Compile the overlay file from the download location:

    language:bash
    dtc -@ -I dts -O dtb -o rpi-display.dtbo sfe-topphat-overlay.dts
    

    compile the overlay file
    The overlay file compiled and listed in the home directory.

    Copy the compiled file to the device tree overlays directory:

    language:bash
    sudo cp rpi-display.dtbo /boot/overlays
    

    copied file
    Compiled file copied to the device tree overlays directory.

    Use your preferred text editor to enable the overlay during boot by adding the following line to the end of the /boot/config.txt file. The example below uses nano with the following command: sudo nano /boot/config.txt.

    opening text editor
    Opening a text editor to modify the /boot/config.txt file.

    Add the following text to the end of the /boot/config.txt file:

    dtoverlay=rpi-display,speed=32000000,rotate=270
    

    modifying file
    Adding changes to the end of the /boot/config.txt file.

    Once these changes have been made, reboot the Raspberry Pi with the sudo reboot command for the changes to take effect.

    2.4" TFT Display (Archived)

    Archived Instructions: The following instructions are only valid for Raspberry Pi OS (or Raspbian) distributions, prior to the Linux 5.4 update. This has been reported to have occurred with the Aug 2020 release (2020-08-20).

    There are two steps for the modules required for the 2.4" TFT Screen; adding the driver modules and then a module configuration.

    Add Driver Modules

    Use your preferred text editor to add the required modules to /etc/modules. The example below uses nano with the following command: sudo nano /etc/modules.

    Add the following lines in the file:

    spi-bcm2835
    fbtft_device
    

    Add modules
    Adding modules for the screen. (Click to enlarge)

    Module Configuration

    Again, use your preferred text editor to add the required modules to /etc/modprobe.d/fbtft.conf.

    Add the following text to the file:

    options fbtft_device name=fb_ili9341 gpios=reset:23,dc:24 speed=16000000 bgr=1 rotate=180 custom=1

    Configure module
    Configuration for fbtft module. (Click to enlarge)

    Once these changes have been made, reboot the Raspberry Pi with the sudo reboot command for the changes to take effect.

    Note: Users with the touch screen (from the initial release) should, instead, add the following text to configure the screen properly:

    options fbtft_device name=fb_ili9341 gpios=reset:23,dc:24 speed=16000000 bgr=1 rotate=180 custom=1 init=\
    -1,0x28,-2,20,-1,0x21,-1,0xCF,0x00,0x83,0x30,-1,0xED,0x64,0x03,0x12,0x81,-1,0xE8,0x85,0x01,0x79,\
    -1,0xCB,0x39,0x2c,0x00,0x34,0x02,-1,0xF7,0x20,-1,0xEA,0x00,0x00,-1,0xC0,0x26,-1,0xC1,0x11,\
    -1,0xC5,0x35,0x3E,-1,0xC7,0xBE,-1,0xB1,0x00,0x1B,-1,0xB6,0x0a,0x82,0x27,0x00,-1,0xB7,0x07,\
    -1,0x3A,0x55,-1,0x36,0x38,-1,0x11,-2,120,-1,0x29,-2,20,-3
    

    For users, unsure about the production model they have, the Top pHAT has separate SKUs. However, the most apparent differences are the screen's colors appear inverted when using the wrong setting; or the chip on the screen's ribbon cable that is utilized for the touch capability.

    DEV-16301


    Initial product release with touch screen. The additional chip for the touch capability can be seen on the right, attached to the ribbon cable.

    DEV-16653

    Updated product release without the touch capability; no chip is attached to the ribbon cable. The touch screen was initially used due to supply shortages.

    Screen Operation

    To utilize the screen, users will call the con2fbmap command. The command is followed by two inputs; the terminal to be displayed and the frame buffer, in that order.

    List Frame Buffer

    Get the input for the frame buffer, use the cat /proc/fb, it will list what the fb numbers are.

    Show frame buffers
    Listing frame buffers. (Click to enlarge)

    List Users and their Terminals

    To list the active users and their terminals, the who command can be used.

    List user terminals
    Listing active user terminals. (Click to enlarge)

    Note: Users cannot display a hardware terminal like the serial console on the screen.

    Examples

    Below is are some examples for using the screen. (*Don't forget to reboot the Raspberry Pi for the previous configurations to take effect.)

    • Display terminal on the TFT using the con2fbmap 1 1 command in the terminal or CLI. Then exit to the virtual terminal using Ctrl + Alt + F1.
    • To swap between the display and the HDMI output, use the startx command in the terminal or CLI initiate the PIXEL desktop through the HDMI output. To revert back to the display, click on Raspberry Pi icon -> Shutdown -> Exit to Commandline.
    • In order to utilize the display on startup, users can modify the /etc/rc.local file using the sudo nano /etc/rc.local command in the terminal or CLI. Users will need to add the con2fbmap 1 1 command just above the exit 0 entry.

    Screen operational
    Screen operating from boot. (Click to enlarge)

    Note: The HDMI can be hot plugged into a Raspberry Pi 3 only. On the Pi 4, an HDMI cable must be plugged in before booting.

    OS Configuration: Part 2

    Boot to CLI

    Users will want to configure the OS to boot to the console through the System or Boot Options menus, in order to utilize the screen on power up.

    Raspberry Pi Configuration Application

    config app system menu
    Configuring Boot to CLI through the Raspberry Pi Configuration application.

    Raspi-Config Application

    raspi-config boot options menu
    Selecting the Boot Options menu in the console based raspi-config application. (Click to enlarge)

    raspi-config Desktop/CLI menu
    Selecting the Desktop/CLI menu in the console based raspi-config application. (Click to enlarge)

    raspi-config Console Autologin option
    Selecting the Console Autologin option to configure the system to boot to the CLI. (Click to enlarge)

    Troubleshooting

    For comprehensive information or troubleshooting issues, on the Raspberry Pi, users should check out the Raspberry Pi Foundation website and their forum.

    As a general guideline, users should use the following resources when looking for technical information or assistance that is specifically related to the Raspberry Pi itself:

    1. Raspberry Pi FAQ
    2. Raspberry Pi Beginner's Subforum
    3. Raspberry Pi Documentation and Help Guides
    4. Raspberry Pi Forum

    For users looking for technical assistance, click on the link. There you will find, basic troubleshooting tips and instructions to get started with posting a topic in our forums. Our technical support team will do their best to assist you.