cyberDÛCK Is a Duck-Shaped Programming Interface

As kmatch98 explains, the advent of MicroPython and Adafruit's CircuitPython derivative have streamlined the rapid prototyping of microcontrollers. One might also point to the Arduino IDE has done the same, but these minimal Python implementations don’t even require a compile step in the process, enabling you to simply load the .py file directly onto the piece of hardware. The fact still remains — or did remain — that these devices need to be tethered to a computer for programming.

To change this, kmatch98 has created a specquackular self-contained console based on a pair of Adafruit ItsyBitsy M4s, along with a 240x240 pixel 1.3” TFT display. The aptly named "cyberDÛCK" (cyberdeck + duck) takes input from a standard USB keyboard via an on-the-go (OTG) cable, with one of the M4s acting as a USB host. This converts USB inputs to UART data that’s passed on to the second board, which displays a REPL (read-evaluate-print loop) on the tiny display as a full programming interface.

Mechanically, the most obvious feature of this unit is its duck shape, with a hinged design for “maximum portability, water resistance, tilt function visibility and all-around good looks.” As seen in the video below, the cyberDÛCK is used in a flipped open orientation, allowing for viewing of the screen and easy access to the electronics inside. It’s an interesting demo, and a fun play on the cyberdeck idea, which may also evoke thoughts of a rubber ducky hacking tool.