Adafruit Proto Doubler PiCowbell for Pico and PicoW

The Adafruit Proto Doubler PiCowBell simplifies programming and sensor connectivity for your Raspberry Pi Pico board, resembling a dual mini solder-less proto plate. Its innovative features ensure seamless integration, offering reset button functionality and a versatile STEMMA QT/Qwiic connector for rapid I2C connections.

Boasting plug-and-play capabilities, when paired with a Pico H or Pico WH, no soldering is needed. The dual slots facilitate easy accessory additions without the need for stacking headers.

Designed with mobility in mind, the Doubler includes LiPoly/LiIon battery support, with a JST 2-PH connector for 3.7V/4.2V batteries. It automatically charges when linked via USB, and seamlessly switches to battery power upon USB disconnection.

The default 500mA charge rate can be adjusted to 250mA for smaller batteries. The slide switch ensures easy power management by disabling the 3.3V power supply when necessary.

Flexible battery options include 3xAA or 3xAAA packs for Alkaline or NiMH batteries. Double socket headers facilitate easy connections to LEDs, buttons, or breadboards, with clear labeling on each socket for effortless configuration.

Enhanced with hollow dual socket headers and four mounting holes, the Doubler accommodates Pico Stacking Headers for versatile connectivity options. Gold-plated pads ensure smooth soldering, with clearly marked ground pads and a ground strip for easy identification.

The I2C/Qwiic connector can double as GPIO wiring if I2C devices are absent, providing 3V, GND, IO4, and IO5 pin access. Additional breakout holes beside the JST SH enable further I2C connections.

This meticulous engineering ensures that every Pico pad has a corresponding hole pad for solder-jumpering, maximizing the board’s customization potential. The Philhower Arduino core is pre-configured for IO4 and IO5, while CircuitPython or MicroPython require manual SDA+SCL pin adjustments.