Tux Machines
Open Hardware/Modding: Framework, Raspberry Pi, and More
Posted by Roy Schestowitz on Dec 13, 2025
CNX Software ☛ Renesas RA6W1/RA6W2 Cortex-M33 wireless MCUs offer dual-band Wi-Fi 6, BLE, Matter, 15-year availability
Renesas has added the RA6W1 (Wi-Fi 6) and the RA6W2 (Wi-Fi 6 + BLE) MCUs to its high-performance RA6 family, adding dual-band Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth LE, as well as Matter connectivity to the series. Both models feature a 160 MHz Arm Cortex-M33 core, dual-band Wi-Fi 6 with WPA3 security, on-chip PA/LNA/RF switch, and a full TCP/IP stack for fast connectivity. They integrate up to 704 KB SRAM, 256 KB ROM, and support eMMC/SD, O-QSPI, and QSPI for external flash and/or PSRAM. The series also includes generic peripherals like SPI, I²C, I²S/PDM, SDIO, 12-bit ADCs, PWM timers, and up to 28 GPIOs.
CNX Software ☛ nRF9151 SMA DK development kit offers cellular IoT, DECT NR+, and 5G NTN satellite connectivity
Nordic Semiconductor’s nRF9151 SMA DK development kit is designed for building IoT applications using LTE-M/NB-IoT cellular IoT, DECT NR+, or 5G NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network) satellite connectivity. The development kit offers three ways to connect a SIM card, namely a NanoSIM card slot, an MFF2 SIM footprint for eSIM or software iSIM, and a 10-pin SIM connector. It also includes two SMA connectors for GPS and LTE antennas or lab equipment, multiple current measurement connectors, and Arduino UNO headers for expansion, notably the nRF7002 EK for adding Wi-Fi 6 locationing capabilities.
Tom's Hardware ☛ Framework raises DDR5 RAM upgrade prices by 50% amid DRAM shortage — only for Laptop DIY edition, says prices will likely rise again
The Framework Laptop DIY Edition provides memory options ranging from 8GB to an impressive 96GB (2x48GB). Nevertheless, it is possible to acquire the device without any memory modules. Despite a 50% price increase, Framework's pricing remains consistent with prevailing spot market prices and, at times, may even be cheaper. Therefore, unless you have spare DDR5 SO-DIMM memory modules or encounter an exceptional memory deal, purchasing directly from Framework isn't a bad deal.
PC World ☛ Framework raises laptop RAM prices 50% as brutal memory crunch grinds on
A few weeks ago Framework stopped selling RAM separately from laptops and the new desktop (which uses the same SO-DIMM memory), giving a public statement that it was trying to prevent scalpers from buying up supply, and saving its reserves for customers who buy pre-configured laptops. But now the prices for said laptops, when configured with memory, are rising. In a blog post from founder Nirav Patel, the company announced a 50 percent price bump for RAM (and only RAM) in the store configuration tool.
Jeff Geerling ☛ CM0 - a new Raspberry Pi you can't buy
Compute modules are everywhere, in kiosks, signage, 3D printers, and even the new Ableton Move. If you just need a little bit of Linux for networking and remote control, these are perfect for that.
And the CM0 is now the smallest version, a little bigger than a postage stamp.
CNX Software ☛ Diptyx E-Reader – An open-source, ESP32-powered, dual-screen e-book reader (Crowdfunding)
There are plenty of e-book readers on the market, but the Diptyx E-Reader feels more like a proper book since it features two e-paper displays that can be folded or opened thanks to a custom-made plastic enclosure. While it’s powered by an ESP32-S3 wireless module with a PCB antenna, both WiFi and Bluetooth are disabled in the firmware, and instead, users can load EPUB files through the reader’s USB Type-C port. The combination of an automatic standby mode (using deep sleep) and e-ink displays enables the dual-screen device to run for weeks on a single charge.
G8GKA ☛ 10GHz PA Using a Mini-Circuits PMA5-123 3W MMIC
Like possibly many others I was surprised just how small this 3W rated chip was and immediately wondered how I was going to solder it in place. If you don’t already know, it’s a 5 x 5 mm 32 lead QFN style package, a small, thin, leadless package with electrical contacts on the bottom surface.