next.module

@kari_mikumao @BusyFocusApp Sorry for the long wait, guys. We’re just as eager as you are. However, we need to resolve all the production and certification matters before we can start sales. In any case, we’re already on the home stretch. 🚀

@BusyFocusApp I mean hype building is good and all, but we’ve been waiting for preorder for ages. Eventually people will lose interest 🤷‍♂️

The design of BUSY Bar can be easily customised with 3D printed control covers

Designing a multi-channel light guide for the next.module DIO16

@XmarksHere @BusyFocusApp Yes

@BusyFocusApp Assuming this will work with Google Home as well?

How to make an adaptive workspace. Based on HomePod mini, smart bulb, smart plugs and a BUSY Bar.

@ZtookMinister @BusyFocusApp That’s just hardware. Software gets dumbed down to a simple LED sign. SDKs, APIs, secure cloud, Matter, mobile & desktop apps, and a polished UI take thousands of hours. Yes, you can build it cheaper by cutting corners. But it’ll still be a hacked-together DIY device.

I have been thinking about this very question. Good of you to adress it. What sets your product apart from something I could throw together myself? parts are plentiful. I am on the fence on trying out your device, so please sell me on it. It looks cool, so it’s got that going for it.

Many think a BUSY Bar can be DIY’ed for $50. Spoiler: making a truly high-quality device is way harder

@ZtookMinister @BusyFocusApp It’s all about quality — from mechanics to software. DIY force compromises everywhere: ESP32, WS2812 LEDs, off-the-shelf power modules, 3D-printed case. The result is usually a bulky, fragile device with mediocre controls, a slow low-res display, no low-power, and slow charging.

@BusyFocusApp Thought the curve on the back was just for looks

BUSY Bar is designed for maximum visibility. The subtle angles make its screens easier to read

The RS485 module was tested up to a speed of 115.2 Kbps. I used the MODBUS RTU protocol and EasyBuilder Pro to test it. #nextmodule #rs485 #rs422 #module #industrial #plc #automation #iot #devboard

12 modules in one device: 1 x CPU ESP32S3 1 x PSU DC 1 x ETH W5500 1 x 8DI-ISO 1 x 8DO 1 x 16DIO 1 x CAN 1 x RS485 1 x RS232 1 x RTC 2 x DBG LED Size: 54.5 x 85.2 x 85.2 mm #nextmodule #plc #automation #iot #smarthome #esp32

next.module CAN (isolated)

CAN module has been successfully tested! In both versions with and without galvanic isolation. It has been tested at speeds ranging from 10 Kbps to 1 Mbps. The most important thing is that the capacitive galvanic isolator from 2Pay Semi performed well, I had doubts about it.

next.module CAN and RS485

next.module DIO modules testing

The modules DI8-ISO, DO8 and DIO16 have been tested and they all work fine. A few things that need to be fixed: 🟠 In DI8-ISO, I need to increase the resistance to limit the current through the optocouplers. 🟠 In DO8, I need to add a short circuit protection

Connectors on DI8-ISO and DO8 modules may have different designs, such as screw terminals or spring terminals. Spring terminals are larger and slightly more expensive, but they provide good contact over time and in vibration environments.

ETH W5500 module testing

The ETH W5500 module is working! I was concerned about possible mistakes in the wiring of the chip on Ethernet side, but everything is ok. There are 2 issues: ✅ I forgot to add a 1 Mohm resistor that shunts oscillator ✅ The LEDs in the connector are too dim

CPU ESP32S3 module: ✅ ESP32S3 is flashed and debugged via USB-C ✅ RGB-LEDs are working. The implementation of the WS2812 chip protocol is hardware-based ✅ DC-DC based works well, but needs to be tested at currents up to 1.5-2 A ✅ Intermodule connectors are convenient

next.module CPU ESP32S3 module testing

next.module prototype testing started!

PCBs for first prototypes