The Waveshare RP2040-LCD-1.28 is a compact board with an integrated 1.28-inch round IPS LCD driven by the GC9A01 controller. Its circular form factor opens creative possibilities — analogue clocks, compass displays, speedometer gauges, and smartwatch interfaces.
Specifications
- MCU: RP2040 dual-core Cortex-M0+ at 133 MHz
- Display: 1.28-inch IPS, 240×240, 65K colours, GC9A01
- Flash: 2 MB
- Sensors: QMI8658 IMU on some variants
- Battery: LiPo charging on some variants
- Size: 40 x 40 mm circular PCB
Setup and First Programme
- Flash MicroPython (hold BOOT, plug in, drag UF2).
- Install gc9a01 driver from russhughes/gc9a01_mpy on GitHub.
- Upload driver files using Thonny.
import gc9a01, machine
spi = machine.SPI(1, baudrate=60000000, sck=machine.Pin(10), mosi=machine.Pin(11))
display = gc9a01.GC9A01(spi, dc=machine.Pin(8), cs=machine.Pin(9), reset=machine.Pin(12), width=240, height=240)
display.fill(gc9a01.BLACK)Drawing on a Round Display
- Keep content within 120-pixel radius from centre (120,120).
- Use polar coordinates: x = cx + r*cos(angle), y = cy + r*sin(angle).
- Draw arcs using small filled circles along the circumference.
Project Ideas
- Analogue Clock: Hour markers, rotating hands, date window. DS3231 RTC for time sync.
- Compass: HMC5883L magnetometer with rotating compass rose.
- CPU Temp Gauge: Read temps over USB serial, display colour-coded circular gauge.
- Pomodoro Timer: Circular countdown ring, vibration motor at session end.
- Fitness Tracker: On-board IMU for step counting with activity ring display.
Smartwatch Face Design
- Place primary data (time) in the centre, secondary info around the edge.
- Use complications at 3, 6, 9, 12 o’clock positions.
- Colour rings for status indicators — green = good, red = alert.
Adding Sensors
- BME280: Weather watch
- MAX30102: Heart rate monitor
- DS3231: Accurate timekeeping
- LIS3DH: Gesture detection (tap to wake)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use LVGL?
Yes, with limitations. LVGL works but 264 KB SRAM is tight. Use partial rendering.
Battery life with LiPo?
400 mAh LiPo gives 4-6 hours display-on. With sleep modes, 2-3 days.
Readable in sunlight?
IPS has good colour but can wash out. Cup your hand around it like a real watch.
Can I 3D print a case?
Yes. STL files are available on Thingiverse for the 40mm circular PCB.
Conclusion
The RP2040-LCD-1.28 is uniquely compelling for circular display projects. Its round form factor, capable processor, and optional IMU make it perfect for wearables and desk gadgets.
Browse the full Waveshare collection at Zbotic.in with fast shipping across India.
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