Dear Community,
I’m excited to share io-samurai, an open-source, budget-friendly interface for LinuxCNC and remote I/O projects, built from the ground up for makers like you! I’ve been working hard on this project, and I’m thrilled to announce that once the first batch of final PCBs arrives and I’ve thoroughly tested them, I’ll be releasing the full project on GitHub under the MIT License. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming:
What is io-samurai?
io-samurai is a versatile platform for CNC control and remote I/O, powered by Raspberry Pi Pico/Pico 2 and W5100S/W5500-Lite Ethernet modules. Key features:
16 inputs (20–50 V, MCP23017, I2C) with Zener protection.
8 high-current outputs (50 V, 500 mA, TD62783-driven, MCP23008-controlled).
Single analog inputs (10 kΩ potentiometer, 0–3.3 V, GP26).
40 MHz SPI (~6000 Hz burst) for fast Ethernet communication.
Optional SH1106 OLED for I/O status and IP display.
LinuxCNC uspace HAL driver (compiled with halcompile, .so), with safety features like timeout and data checks.
Python library for automation and remote I/O.
It’s perfect for LinuxCNC users, but also great for IoT, home automation, or any project where you want to experiment with hardware and software.
Current Status
I’ve invested $268 into prototyping, and the first five final PCBs are on their way (~$40–50 each). Once the PCBs arrive and pass testing, I’ll publish the project on GitHub, including:
Firmware: Pico/Pico 2 code with Wiznet’s ioLibrary_Driver (MIT licensed).
HAL Driver: Uspace .so for LinuxCNC, with full setup guide.
Hardware: Gerber files for PCB manufacturing (e.g., JLCPCB, PCBWay).
Documentation: Detailed pinout.md, setup-guide.md, and io-samurai-manual.pdf.
Python Library: For remote I/O and automation.
The GitHub repo (
github.com/atrex66/io-samurai) is ready to go live under the MIT License, ensuring everyone can use, modify, and contribute to the project.
Get Involved!
I’m passionate about making io-samurai accessible to the LinuxCNC and maker communities. Here’s how you can join the journey:
GitHub: Follow the repo for the upcoming release (
github.com/atrex66/io-samurai).
X: Follow updates and share your thoughts: @aTrEx77.
What’s Next?
PCB Testing: Validate the final boards with W5500-Lite, MCP23017, MCP23008, and 10 kΩ potentiometer.
GitHub Release: Share all code, docs, and Gerber files under MIT License.
Roadmap: Mach3 driver, FPGA-based step generator, (~$150 full CNC or HMI control with display and pi Zero 2W).
I’d love to hear your feedback or ideas for io-samurai in LinuxCNC setups! What features would you like to see? Let’s build something awesome together. Built with ❤️ in Hungary.
Cheers,
Zsolt Viola
Patreon: Support development for early firmware access, technical posts, or consultations ($5–$30/month)
Patreon link (
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