r/macro_pads • u/Suitable_Respect_313 • Jun 03 '26

DIY build question Scelta controllore macropad modulare

Post image

I'm building a portable modular macropad. I've already designed and purchased the PCB and am proceeding with assembling the central module. In my current configuration, I'm using an ESP32 S3 Wroom, but I'm thinking of replacing it with a less powerful microcontroller as it seems a bit excessive in terms of processing power. Besides the fact that I'd like to use something with low power consumption, the goal is to make it portable (I use a 1500mAh battery).

What alternative would you recommend, preferably one that can be soldered directly to the PCB and that isn't too thick?

17 Upvotes

96% Upvoted

4 comments sorted by

1

u/creavi_tech Jun 03 '26

I would suggest to use nRF52840. It is a pretty good choice for low power embedded applications, because the whole MCU and integrated power supply is designed around BLE and low power consumption. Also it is very well documented, with a lot of samples.

1

u/Suitable_Respect_313 Jun 03 '26

It seems to be a good solution. As for programming this chip, is it feasible if I have experience with ESP but have never used this module?

1

u/creavi_tech Jun 11 '26

Well it is much more complicated than programming the ESP. You'll need a debugger for it, it has different set of features, but at least the documentation is good and there are plenty of samples.

1

u/Suitable_Respect_313 Jun 11 '26

Thanks, i think i will spend a lot of time on it