Portable Raspberry Pi Zero W

Ideation

This project was driven by my desire to utilize the newest features offered by the Raspberry Pi Zero Wireless. I travel a lot, so I wanted a small, portable Raspberry Pi system. I have RetroPi loaded onto it, but it could be as versatile as you need it to be.

Components

This project is is relatively simple, but has plenty of room for expansion.

• Hardcover Moleskine Notebook

• Raspberry Pi Zero W

• 2500mAh Lipo Battery

• PowerBoost 1000c

• 7" TFT LCD Screen

• Slide Switch

• Micro SD Card

• Optional Easy PWM Audio

• Optional - Bluetooth Controller

Parts/Tools

• Mod Podge

• Utility Knife or Sharp Xacto Knife

• Wire

• Soldering Iron

• Hot Glue/CA Glue

Step 1: Hollow Out Book or Moleskine

I followed this tutorial to bind the pages together and hollow out the parts of the moleskine to make room for my components.

Step 2: Wire Components

I placed all my components where I wanted them to go and then cut wires to length. Sorry I don't have a diagram, but here's what I did.

• Modify the screen to run on 5 volts. (This is going to depend on your screen, I can't walk you through it).

• Connect the powerboost GND to ENG to the switch.

• Run the powerboost 5v line to the screen and pin on the Raspberry Pi Zero.

• Run the powerboost GND line to the screen and pin on the Raspberry Pi Zero.

• Connect the lipo battery to the powerboost.

• Connect the component and GND lines from the screen to the Raspberry Pi Zero.

Step 3: Setup Software

I installed RetroPi so I could play games while on work trips.

Optional Step: Add External Audio

I'm waiting for the part to arrive, but I plan on adding PWM audio to the Raspberry Pi Zero. http://store.kitsch-bent.com/product/easy_pwm_audio

Optional Step: Terminal